The US State Department traditionally issues travel guidance ahead in the spring urging holidaymakers to “minimize risks” and “have a safe and enjoyable spring break experience abroad.” Though the advice has not been updated since 2024, the tips remain valid for this year’s season, alongside some useful warnings and suggestions from university sources that are particularly aimed at student vacationers.
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Before reaching their destination, travellers should familiarise themselves “with the laws and customs” in place there. A number of countries “have harsh penalties for possessing certain substances such as cannabis, bringing ammunition into the country, even by accident,” the US Department of State says.
It’s important to note that even “certain content on social media,” can cause legal difficulties in some countries. A pair of Japanese citizens were incarcerated for two weeks recently for exposing themselves in a photograph at the Great Wall of China. The guidance points out that US authorities do not always have the power to intervene.
Travel advisories
The State Department assigns risk levels to different countries, ranging from “normal precautions” at level one, to the highest risks at level four “Do Not Travel”. That warning can invalidate insurance if it is ignored. The likelihood of being targeted, experiencing crime or political unrest is evaluated along with other hazards.
US citizens can be vulnerable to scams and confidence tricks. Dating apps, taxi scams, cash dispenser fraud, and fake emergency or consular calls are all risks to be aware of.
US embassy contact info and accommodation details
Travellers should ensure they have the contact details for their nearest US embassy or consulate (and should be aware that the Trump administration has recently announced plans to close a number of consulates mainly in Western Europe). Keep those details on hand for use in emergency situations. And at their destination travellers should know their accommodation contact details and keep staff there informed of their whereabouts.
In addition, government authorities recommend photographing passports, insurance and other important documents and securely storing them online or with family members.
If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen while you’re abroad, our consular teams around the world can help ❤️ pic.twitter.com/UoeBvnjCtC— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) March 13, 2025
Check passport, health cover and vaccination requirements
On the subject of passports, check validity and renew documents early if necessary. The State Department points out that many nations require at least six months of passport validity as a pre-entry condition.
Travellers should verify what their regular health insurance covers and note that Medicare/Medicaid are not valid while abroad. It’s a good idea to consider purchasing travel insurance that will make sure unexpected medical expenses are taken care of, including medical evacuation which authorities highlight “can cost upwards of $100,000 depending on location and condition.”
Certain destinations present specific and serious health risks, from ongoing concerns about COVID to polio, malaria, Ebola and other diseases and infections. Be aware that some vaccinations and treatments should be started well in advance of arrival. Advice can be found on the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) website. No world destination currently has a “Do Not Travel” warning specifically for health.
We issue Travel Advisories with Levels 1 – 4. Level 4 means Do Not Travel. This level is assigned based on local conditions and/or our limited ability to help there. These places are dangerous and you may be putting yourself at extreme risk by visiting.
The Travel Advisories for… pic.twitter.com/RMT1sgz0WM— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) March 5, 2025
Enroll in STEP
The State Department encourages US citizens to subscribe to the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at state.gov. It takes about 20 minutes to complete the enrolment and benefit from the completely free service, which sends travellers important safety and security updates, and makes it easier for US officials to get in contact.
Have international travel plans? We recently revamped the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service for U.S. citizens abroad to get safety and security alerts and updates by email from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. It also makes it easier to… pic.twitter.com/WAJ0kze7gm
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) September 24, 2024
It’s important to remember that urgent contact might be needed not only because of events at a destination, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest but also because of events back home, such as a family emergency.
Travellers can also stay connected via @TravelGov on social media “for real-time updates, travel advisories, and helpful tips. Let your family and friends know your travel plans and stay in touch with them throughout your journey,” the State Department says.
Before leaving and right to return
The following is good practice for many travellers but may be of particular relevance to students. Before leaving, unplug appliances, make sure taps are turned off, hide valuables from view, make sure pets are taken care of, get rid of garbage and store any fresh food appropriately. Adjust the heating or cooling settings appropriately and don’t forget to lock windows and doors.
As the Trump administration prepares to issue a travel ban on potentially dozens of countries, international students enrolled at US academic institutions are advised to ensure they have paperwork from their university or college showing their right both to be in the US and their right to travel. Permission documents and even transcripts can be obtained for this purpose. It is also wise to find out the name and contact details of your “designated school official” for dealing with queries from the Department of Homeland Security.
