United States Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in United States.
Healthcare System
The United States has a predominantly private healthcare system with world-class medical facilities but extremely high costs for those without insurance. Unlike most developed countries, there is no universal healthcare, and medical treatment must be paid for out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Even minor emergency room visits can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical emergencies can result in bills exceeding $100,000.
Hospitals
Emergency rooms (ERs) are required by law to treat anyone regardless of ability to pay, but will bill afterwards. For non-emergencies, urgent care centers are less expensive alternatives. Major hospital networks include Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins, and Massachusetts General. Tourist-friendly areas typically have excellent medical facilities with staff experienced in treating international visitors.
Pharmacies
Major pharmacy chains (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid) are ubiquitous and often open 24 hours in cities. Many medications that are over-the-counter elsewhere require prescriptions in the US. Pharmacists cannot prescribe medications except in limited circumstances. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original containers with prescriptions, as getting refills can be difficult and expensive.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is not legally required but is absolutely essential. Without insurance, even minor medical issues can result in financially devastating bills. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, medical evacuation, and repatriation. Many international health insurance policies do not provide adequate coverage in the US due to high costs.
Healthcare Tips
- Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance with at least $500,000 in medical coverage for US travel
- Carry insurance information and emergency contacts at all times
- Keep copies of prescriptions and bring medications in original packaging with labels
- For minor issues, consider urgent care centers or walk-in clinics instead of emergency rooms to reduce costs
- Understand that ambulance rides are not free and can cost $500-2,000 or more
- If prescribed medication, ask about generic alternatives to reduce pharmacy costs
- Download your insurance company's app for easy access to policy information and provider networks
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Car break-ins are common in major cities, particularly at tourist attractions, trailheads, and rental car parking areas. Thieves target vehicles with visible luggage, bags, or valuables, often breaking windows in seconds.
While less common than in some international destinations, pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and busy events. Distraction techniques and grab-and-run thefts are most common methods.
The US has higher rates of gun violence than other developed countries, though tourists are rarely targeted. Most gun violence is concentrated in specific neighborhoods and related to domestic disputes or gang activity. Mass shooting events, while highly publicized, are statistically rare.
Traffic accidents are a significant risk, with aggressive driving common in some areas, distracted driving widespread, and varying road conditions. Rural areas may have wildlife hazards, while cities have congestion and aggressive drivers. Driving laws and customs vary by state.
Many US cities have visible homeless populations, particularly on West Coast. While most individuals are not dangerous, some may approach aggressively for money, and areas with homeless encampments may have drug activity or sanitation issues.
The US experiences diverse and sometimes severe weather including hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, extreme heat, and flash flooding. Weather can change rapidly and be life-threatening if unprepared.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Scammers pose as plainclothes police officers, often targeting tourists in major cities. They may claim to need to check your wallet for counterfeit bills or ask to see identification and credit cards, then steal cash or card information.
Some taxi drivers at airports or tourist areas may claim meters are broken and quote inflated flat rates, take longer routes, or add fake fees. Unlicensed 'gypsy cabs' approach tourists with offers of rides at inflated prices.
Scammers call hotel rooms late at night claiming to be front desk staff saying there's a problem with your credit card and asking you to provide card details over the phone.
Sellers outside venues offer tickets at inflated prices or sell counterfeit tickets to concerts, sports events, or attractions. Digital ticket scams involve fake QR codes or already-used tickets.
Criminals install devices on ATMs to capture card information and PIN numbers, then create duplicate cards to drain accounts. Can occur at standalone ATMs, gas stations, and tourist areas.
Aggressive salespeople in tourist areas (especially Las Vegas, Orlando, Hawaii) offer free show tickets, meals, or tours in exchange for attending high-pressure timeshare presentations that can last hours.
People with clipboards approach tourists in busy areas asking for signatures on petitions or donations to fake charities, then request credit card information or pressure for cash donations.
Some establishments in tourist areas add unauthorized charges, bring unrequested expensive items, or claim credit card machine is broken requiring cash payment at inflated exchange rates.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance, credit cards) separate from originals and in cloud storage
- Register with your embassy's travel program (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for US citizens)
- Share itinerary with someone back home and check in regularly
- Trust your instincts - if something feels unsafe, leave the area
- Be aware that tipping is expected (15-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per bag for hotel staff, $2-5 per day for housekeeping)
- Download offline maps as cell service can be limited in rural areas
- Keep emergency cash in small bills separate from wallet
Accommodation Safety
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables
- Check that doors and windows lock properly upon check-in
- Use deadbolts and security chains when in room
- Don't open door without verifying who is there; hotel staff will have identification
- Keep room number private; don't say it aloud in public areas
- Note emergency exits and evacuation routes when you arrive
- Research neighborhood safety before booking, especially for vacation rentals
Transportation Safety
- Use official transportation - licensed taxis, rideshare apps, or public transit
- Wear seatbelts at all times; car seats required for children (laws vary by state)
- Don't drive under influence of alcohol or marijuana (even where legal, driving under influence is not)
- Be aware that right turn on red is generally allowed unless posted otherwise
- In rideshares, verify driver and vehicle match app before entering; sit in back seat
- Keep car doors locked and windows up in urban areas
- Don't pick up hitchhikers or hitchhike yourself
Money and Valuables
- Use credit cards instead of debit cards for better fraud protection
- Notify banks of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Don't carry large amounts of cash; use hotel safes
- Be discreet with expensive jewelry, cameras, and electronics
- Use RFID-blocking wallets to prevent electronic pickpocketing
- Keep wallets in front pockets or secure bags, not back pockets
Technology and Communication
- Consider purchasing US SIM card or international phone plan for reliable communication
- Download important apps before travel: weather alerts, maps, translation, rideshare
- Use VPN on public WiFi networks
- Enable 'Find My Phone' features and know how to remotely wipe data
- Keep phones charged; carry portable battery pack
- Be aware that 911 works from cell phones even without service plan
- Photograph important documents and store in secure cloud storage
Outdoor and Nature Safety
- Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
- Carry plenty of water - more than you think you need (1 liter per 2 hours hiking minimum)
- Stay on marked trails and obey park rules and closures
- Check weather forecasts and start hikes early to avoid afternoon storms in mountains
- Carry basic first aid kit, sun protection, and emergency supplies
- Be aware of wildlife and proper food storage in bear country
- Know your limits - altitude, heat, and distance can be challenging for visitors
- Cell service is often unavailable in remote areas; carry physical maps
Health Precautions
- Bring adequate supplies of prescription medications in original containers
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout most of the US
- Use high-SPF sunscreen; UV radiation is strong, especially at altitude and in southern states
- Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms in mountain destinations (above 8,000 feet)
- Tick checks after hiking in wooded areas; Lyme disease is present in many regions
- Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer
- Be aware that medical marijuana is legal in many states but remains illegal federally and for visitors
Legal Awareness
- Carry identification at all times (passport or copy)
- Laws vary significantly by state, including alcohol sales, marijuana, traffic rules
- Drinking age is strictly enforced at 21; expect to show ID
- Don't jaywalk in cities where enforced (can result in fines)
- Public intoxication laws are enforced; don't drink in public spaces unless specifically allowed
- Marijuana remains illegal under federal law and in many states; don't transport across state lines
- Be respectful with police; keep hands visible; don't argue; you have right to remain silent
- Smoking is banned in most indoor public spaces and many outdoor areas
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
The United States is generally safe for women travelers, with millions of women traveling solo throughout the country annually. Women have equal rights and freedom of movement. However, as in any country, women should take standard safety precautions, particularly when traveling alone. Harassment is less common than in many countries, but can occur, especially in bars, nightlife areas, and on public transportation in major cities. Most Americans are helpful and respectful toward travelers.
- Trust your instincts; if a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Share your itinerary and location with friends/family; use location-sharing apps
- Book accommodations in well-reviewed, safe neighborhoods; read reviews from other solo women travelers
- Use rideshare apps rather than flagging taxis late at night; sit in back seat and verify driver details
- Be cautious accepting drinks from strangers; watch your drink being made and keep it with you
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, especially when alone
- Dress as you wish - the US has no dress code, though conservative dress may get less attention in some rural areas
- Keep phone charged and easily accessible
- In bars/clubs, stay with your group; have a plan for getting home safely
- Be aware that walking alone late at night in urban areas can attract unwanted attention
- Consider joining group tours or activities to meet other travelers
- Book ground-floor hotel rooms only if you prefer; upper floors are generally considered safer
- Use hotel peepholes and chain locks; don't open door for unexpected visitors
- Be assertive and firm when declining unwanted attention; don't worry about being polite
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex marriage is legal nationwide since 2015. Federal law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations, though state laws vary. The US has strong LGBTQ+ legal protections compared to most countries, though some states have passed laws restricting transgender rights, particularly regarding sports participation and healthcare for minors.
- Major cities have thriving LGBTQ+ scenes with dedicated neighborhoods (Castro in SF, West Hollywood in LA, Chelsea in NYC, Boystown in Chicago)
- Research local attitudes if traveling to rural or conservative areas; consider being more discreet in these regions
- Use LGBTQ+-friendly travel resources and apps to find welcoming accommodations and businesses
- Pride celebrations occur in most major cities, typically in June
- Transgender travelers should carry ID that matches presentation if possible; TSA screening can be challenging
- Some states have 'religious freedom' laws that may allow discrimination; be aware of local laws
- LGBTQ+ travelers generally face no issues in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants in cities
- Healthcare providers in major cities are experienced with LGBTQ+ health issues
- Consider using LGBTQ+-owned or certified welcoming businesses (look for rainbow flags or Human Rights Campaign stickers)
- Dating apps are widely used and generally safe, but take standard precautions when meeting people
- Be aware that attitudes can vary significantly even within states (urban vs. rural)
- Legal protections exist if you face discrimination; document incidents and report to local authorities or LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for visiting the United States due to the extremely high cost of medical care. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical emergencies can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Unlike most developed countries, the US has no universal healthcare system, and visitors must pay full price for all medical services. Medical bills are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the US, even for citizens. Without adequate insurance, a medical emergency could be financially devastating. Additionally, the US's vast size and weather variability make trip interruption and evacuation coverage important.
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