Information for Students: Departing | Currently Abroad | Returning

Safety and Security

Airport Security

Several changes have been made to increase security with regards to airports and airline travel. Many airports ask that you arrive two hours before your flight for international travel. Most airlines have reduced the number of carry-on items to one, plus one personal item (briefcase, purse, laptop, etc). Some airlines ask that you check as many bags as possible, including bags you had intended to carry on. If you have purchased e-tickets, some airlines are requiring proof of travel, or some sort of confirmation of your e-ticket. Do not joke about terrorism or what might be in your bags. Doing something like this will get you arrested immediately. Some airports are randomly checking every other bag that passes through security. Do not pack any sharp objects, even nail files or Swiss army knives, that may be caught and postpone your journey. This could get you into serious trouble. If you need these things overseas, buy them upon arrival.

Personal Safety                  

People live safely in the countries where you are going. However, you should use common sense to avoid any trouble. While you are abroad, you may feel adventurous and try to experience as much as you can. Also, you will be removed from your usual surroundings and will likely have lost some of your framework of knowledge about what is sensible and what is not. Seek an ideal balance of calculated risks (going out with groups of people you don't know, etc.), and maintain common sense. Know how to find your way back home if you should end up stranded, and do not get totally drunk with strangers.

You do not take your rights as an American with you abroad. You are subject to the laws of that country and to the punishment as well. Do your research to make sure you know the laws of your host country, and follow them. Activities that we take for granted here may not be legal overseas. 

Tips for Reducing Risk

1  Read up on the customs and political situation of every country that you visit. The US State Department provides current information on every country. Major metropolitan newspapers can keep you up-to-date on important current events. The Education Abroad Office subscribes to the Department of State listserv and receives current information regarding travel warnings and public announcements.

2  Before you go, talk to international students from the places you intend to visit. Their insights will prove very helpful.

3  Protect your valuable documents. Carry these in a money belt or neck wallet under your clothes when traveling.

4  Before leaving on your trip, make two sets of copies of all your important documents. Take a set with you, but be sure to separate it from the actual documents. Leave one set with a friend or a family member back home.

5  Never leave your pack or luggage unattended.

6  Avoid illegal drugs. You are subject to the laws of the country in which you are traveling, and punishments may be severe.

7  Avoid demonstrations, especially in politically volatile countries.

8  Travel with a companion at night, and stay in populated, well-trafficked areas. Be especially cautious if you have been drinking.

9  Be aware at all times of your surroundings. This is not paranoia; it is good common sense. You know what feels comfortable and what doesn't. If your instincts tell you a situation is uncomfortable, trust them and move along.

10  Stay healthy by eating well and getting sufficient rest. If you become ill, get proper care. Do not be afraid to visit a doctor or hospital because you don't speak the local language. Usually someone who speaks English will be available to help you.

11  Do not "dress American."  This means you should avoid clothing with American flags or any kind of stars and stripes, VT t-shirts and paraphernalia, baseball caps or anything that else that may single you out from the general crowd as an American.

Safety tips taken from:  Student Travels: Magazine for International Travel, Study, and Work, Fall 1997, CIEE: Council on International Educational Exchange, New York.