Today, there are travel apps available for every stage of your trip. To assist along the way we have provided links below to resources for travel warnings, alerts, and advisories.
Changes To Plans
As travelers, it is helpful to check individual businesses, bookings or destinations for any changes since reservations were made. When severe weather hits as a hurricane has in Florida plans are disrupted for many people. Calling ahead of travel gives time for questions on schedules, ticketing, and an opportunity to adjust plans.
Thoughts to consider when preparing for a trip:
- Have attractions, entertainment, or activities changed prices?
- Are the hours of operation different since booking? Some businesses and organizations are not open on certain days of the week.
- Does the destination have COVID restrictions in place such as requirement of face coverings, or social distancing indoors, aboard transportation or elsewhere?
- If you have experienced a problem, are tickets, experiences or reservations refundable?
Transportation Security Administration
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a helpline for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. Call 1-855-787-2227 (toll-free) before your trip to request assistance with the security screening process.
Be Aware Of The Environment
For those emergencies beyond our control while traveling afar - seek news from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs - (Travel.State.Gov). The mission of the Travel.State.Gov site is to protect the lives and interests of U.S. citizens overseas. The dedicated staff of professionals do much more than issue passports and other documentation to citizens. They also provide emergency services to Americans at our embassies and consulates around the world.
Travel Advisory Levels
When on the Travel.State.Gov site you may see alerts or updates on the main page or look in the Travel Advisories section. The page includes four levels of advisories for destinations across the globe.
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions - Navy blue 🟦
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution - Yellow 🟨
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel - Orange 🟧
- Level 4: Do Not Travel - Red 🟥
MyTravelGov
Among the services offered is MyTravelGov from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. The MyTravelGov account allows you to securely renew your U.S. passport or apply for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad online. See the website for full details on this service.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
The site also has handy travel tips, plus news on the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program or STEP. This free service allows U.S. citizens and those nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By signing up, the U.S. Embassy can contact you in an emergency, whether it is a natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.
Happy Travels