1. Make sure you have a signed, valid passport and visas,
if required. Also, before you go, fill in the emergency information
page of your passport!


2. Read the Consular Information Sheets (and Public
Announcements or Travel Warnings, if applicable) for the
countries you plan to visit.

3. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the
countries to which you are traveling. Remember, the U.S.
Constitution does not follow you! While in a foreign country,
you are subject to its laws.

4. Make 2 copies of your passport identification page. This will
facilitate replacement if your passport is lost or stolen. Leave
one copy at home with friends or relatives. Carry the other with
you in a separate place from your passport.

5. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home
so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

6. Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas. Do not
accept packages from strangers.

7. Prior to your departure, you should register with the nearest
U.S. embassy or consulate through the State Department’s
travel registration website . Registration will make your presence
and whereabouts known in case it is necessary to contact you in
an emergency. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information
on your welfare and whereabouts may not be released without
your express authorization. Remember to leave a detailed
itinerary and the numbers or copies of your passport or
other citizenship documents with a friend or relative in the
United States.

8. To avoid being a target of crime, try not to wear
conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry and do not carry
excessive amounts of money or unnecessary credit cards.

9. In order to avoid violating local laws, deal only with authorized
agents when you exchange money or purchase art or antiques.

10. If you get into trouble, contact the nearest U.S. embassy