TravelInsurance Tip Categories | |
Contact LifeTips | If you have questions about Life Tips, our Sales Staff and/or Gurus have the answers.
Ask a Question Now! |
| 'Best Of' TravelInsurance Tips | | 1. Advice on Terrorism and Travel | Terrorist acts occur at random and unpredictably, making it impossible to protect yourself absolutely. The first and best protection is to avoid travel to unsafe areas where there has been a persistent record of terrorist attacks or kidnapping. The vast majority of foreign states have good records of maintaining public order and protecting residents and visitors within their borders from terrorism.
Most terrorist attacks are the result of long and careful planning. Just as a car thief will first be attracted to an unlocked car with the key in the ignition, terrorists are looking for defenseless, easily accessible targets who follow predictable patterns. The chances that a tourist, traveling with an unpublished program or itinerary, would be the victim of terrorism are slight. In addition, many terrorist groups, seeking publicity for political causes within their own country or region, may not be looking for American targets.
Nevertheless, the following pointers may help you avoid becoming a target of opportunity. They should be considered as adjuncts to the tips listed in the previous sections on how to protect yourself against the far greater likelihood of being a victim of crime. These precautions may provide some degree of protection, and can serve as practical and psychological deterrents to would-be terrorists. | | | 2. How to Avoid Legal Difficulties | When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws and are under its jurisdiction NOT the protection of the U.S. Constitution.
You can be arrested overseas for actions that may be either legal or considered minor infractions in the United States. Be aware of what is considered criminal in the country where you are. Consular Information Sheets include information on unusual patterns of arrests in various countries when appropriate.
Some of the offenses for which U.S. citizens have been arrested abroad are:
Drug Violations: More than 1/3 of U.S. citizens incarcerated abroad are held on drug charges. Some countries do not distinguish between possession and trafficking. Many countries have mandatory sentences - even for possession of a small amount of marijuana or cocaine. A number of Americans have been arrested for possessing prescription drugs, particularly tranquilizers and amphetamines, that they purchased legally in certain Asian countries and then brought to some countries in the Middle East where they are illegal. Other U.S. citizens have been arrested for purchasing prescription drugs abroad in quantities that local authorities suspected were for commercial use. If in doubt about foreign drug laws, ask local authorities or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Possession of Firearms: The places where U.S. citizens most often come into difficulties for illegal possession of firearms are nearby - Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. Sentences for possession of firearms in Mexico can be up to 30 years. In general, firearms, even those legally registered in the U.S., cannot be brought into a country unless a permit is first obtained from the embassy or a consulate of that country and the firearm is registered with foreign authorities on arrival. (Note: If you take firearms or ammunition to another country, you cannot bring them back into the U.S. unless you register them with U.S. Customs before you leave the U.S.)
Photography: In many countries you can be harassed or detained for photographing such things as police and military installations, government buildings, border areas and transportation facilities. If you are in doubt, ask permission before taking photographs.
Purchasing Antiques: Americans have been arrested for purchasing souvenirs that were, or looked like, antiques and which local customs authorities believed were national treasures. This is especially true in Turkey, Egypt and Mexico. In countries where antiques are important, document your purchases as reproductions if that is the case, or if they are authentic, secure the necessary export permit (usually from the national museum.) | | | 3. How to Handle Money Safely | To avoid carrying large amounts of cash, change your travelers´ checks only as you need currency. Countersign travelers´ checks only in front of the person who will cash them.
Do not flash large amounts of money when paying a bill. Make sure your credit card is returned to you after each transaction.
Deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money, buy airline tickets or purchase souvenirs. Do not change money on the black market.
If your possessions are lost or stolen, report the loss immediately to the local police. Keep a copy of the police report for insurance claims and as an explanation of your plight. After reporting missing items to the police, report the loss or theft of:
-travelers´ checks to the nearest agent of the issuing company,
-credit cards to the issuing company,
-airline tickets to the airline or travel agent,
-passport to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. | | | 4. Emergencies While Traveling | | If you encounter serious legal, medical, or financial difficulties or other problems abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. Although consular officers cannot serve as attorneys, they can help you find legal assistance. Consular officers cannot cash checks, lend money, or act as travel agents. However, in an emergency, consular officers can help you get in touch with your family back home to inform them on how to wire funds to you and to let them know of your situation. Consular officers can also provide you with the latest information about adverse conditions abroad. | | | 5. Theft and Robbery When Traveling | Move purposefully and confidently. If you should find yourself in a crowded area, such as in an elevator, subway, marketplace, or in busy tourist areas, exercise special caution to avoid theft.
Help prevent theft by carrying your belongings securely. Carry purses tucked under an arm and not dangling by a strap. Carry valuables hidden in an inside front pocket or in a money belt, not in a hip pocket. You may wish to wrap your wallet with rubber bands to make it more difficult for someone to slip it from your pocket unnoticed. Money belts or pouches that fit around your shoulder, waist or under clothing are available through some luggage shops and department stores. | | | 6. Before Departure and At The Airport | -Count your cash before leaving in an inconspicuous location.
-Get export papers from US Customs for computers, video cameras, etc. to make US Customs clearance easier when you return.
-Check in early and go through security immediately.
-Stay away from windows, trash bins, etc.
-Never agree to watch someone´s luggage.
-Report unattended bags and packages.
-Note the location of exits.
-Move away from disturbances.
-Take care of personal needs before boarding since long delays and waits are common. | | | 7. Learn About the Countries You Plan to Visit | Department of State Publication 10337
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Revised August 1996
TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS FOR OLDER AMERICANS
Before you go, read up on the culture, people, and history for the places you will travel. Book stores and libraries are good resources. Travel magazines and the travel sections of major newspapers tell about places to visit and also give advice on everything from discount airfares to international health insurance. Many travel agents and foreign tourist bureaus provide free information on travel abroad.
For up-to-date travel information on any country in the world that you plan to visit, obtain the Department of State´s Consular Information Sheet. They cover such matters as health conditions, unusual currency and entry regulations, crime and security conditions, drug penalties, and areas of instability. In addition, the State Department issues Travel Warnings when it recommends Americans defer travel to a country because of unsafe conditions. Travel Warnings are under continuous review by the Department of State and are removed when conditions warrant. The Department of State also issues Public Announcements as a means to disseminate information quickly about relatively short-term and/or trans-national conditions which would pose significant risks to the security of American travelers. | | | 8. Miscellaneous Travel Tips | -Always remember that you are a guest in another´s country.
-Obey all laws of the country you are in - no drugs - no smuggling.
-Baggage - Most airlines allow two bags (max. 70 pounds each some size restrictions apply) for direct travel to and from the USA.
-Check bags to your final destination.
-Know what you are hand carrying for someone else.
-Cash - Many countries require that you declare all of the cash (sometimes traveler checks as well) which you are bringing into the country.
-Count your cash before leaving in an inconspicuous location.
-Keep your currency forms with you.
-Never discuss financial matters in public.
-Travel Documents - Check all travel documents before leaving to ensure that they are valid for the duration of your trip, including extensions.
-Airline Tickets - Check your airline tickets to ensure that routing is as planned and that you know all of your stops.
-Packing Hints - The clothing you pack should always be appropriate for the climate and activities on your itinerary. The normal attire in many overseas office is fairly casual; however, you may need a suit for visits to government offices. In general, pack
-Clothing that is wrinkle-resistant, drip-dry and comfortable.
-Comfortable walking shoes.
-Versatile styles that can go from casual to dressy.
-Toiletries in unbreakable plastic bottles.
-Include soap and washcloth.
-Pack in your carry-on bag
-An all-weather coat - Europe can be cool anytime of the year.
-A supply of any medication and extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts lenses.
-A change of clothing.
-Duplicate suitcase keys.
-Familiarize yourself with the currency and exchange laws of the countries you plan to visit.
-Tape your name, address, and passport number inside your suitcases.
-Take a pocket calculator for converting currency, etc.
-Take prescription slips for any necessary medication and eyeglasses.
-Carry a small notebook with your camera to record where photos were taken. Most countries prohibit photographing military and governmental facilities.
-Keep sales receipts handy for customs.
-Get someone to write your hotel address in the local language and keep it with you.
-Avoid ice cubes wherever you´re advised not to drink the water.
-Avoid raw vegetables wherever you´re in doubt.
-Most visas are valid for 30 to 90 days from issue - check validity with your schedule.
-Many airports require payment of an airport exit tax - be sure you have the correct amount in the correct currency.
-Many hotel porters require a "verification of payment" slip before they will carry your bags out of the hotel. Ask for this slip from the cashier when you check out. | | | 9. Travel Insurance Advice | | There are many things to consider when traveling overseas including passport, tickets, exchange rates, accommodation and what to pack. While overseas travel can be an exciting prospect, there can be situations where things may go wrong and travelers find themselves needing urgent medical assistance, help with replacing lost luggage and/or assistance with making an urgent trip home. This is where Travel Insurance can help – along with providing peace of mind for travellers who may find themselves in any of these situations. Travelers should thoroughly read the policy before they purchase travel insurance to ensure it meets all their needs and provides the appropriate level of coverage. | | | 10. Safety on Public Transportation | If a country has a pattern of tourists being targeted by criminals on public transport, that information is mentioned in the Consular Information Sheets under the "Crime Information" section.
Taxis: Only take taxis clearly identified with official markings. Beware of unmarked cabs.
Trains: Well organized, systematic robbery of passengers on trains along popular tourists routes is a serious problem. It is more common at night and especially on overnight trains.
If you see your way being blocked by a stranger and another person is very close to you from behind, move away. This can happen in the corridor of the train or on the platform or station.
Do not accept food or drink from strangers. Criminals have been known to drug food or drink offered to passengers. Criminals may also spray sleeping gas in train compartments.
Where possible, lock your compartment. If it cannot be locked securely, take turns sleeping in shifts with your traveling companions. If that is not possible, stay awake. If you must sleep unprotected, tie down your luggage, strap your valuables to you and sleep on top of them as much as possible.
Do not be afraid to alert authorities if you feel threatened in any way. Extra police are often assigned to ride trains on routes where crime is a serious problem.
Buses: The same type of criminal activity found on trains can be found on public buses on popular tourist routes. For example, tourists have been drugged and robbed while sleeping on buses or in bus stations. In some countries whole bus loads of passengers have been held up and robbed by gangs of bandits. | | | 11. Global Medical Travel Insurance | Global Medical Insurance is an annually renewable, U.S. style, major medical insurance product designed for foreign nationals who live outside of their country of citizenship, or who wish to option out of their home health care system. The plan also addresses the needs of U.S. expatriots who want a quality medical insurance plan that will respond to their medical needs in a foreign country.
| | | 12. Top 10 Safety Tips for Travelers | 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. If you plan to stay abroad for more than two weeks, upon arrival you should notify by phone or register in person with the U.S. embassy in the country you are visiting. This will facilitate communication in case someone contacts the embassy looking for you.
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. | | | 13. When You Return to the United States | When you come back, you´ll need to declare everything you brought back that you did not take with you when you left the United States. If you are traveling by air or sea, you may be asked to fill out a Customs declaration form. This form is almost always provided by the airline or cruise ship. You will probably find it easier and faster to fill out your declaration form and clear Customs if you do the following:
Keep your sales slips! As you read this tip, you´ll understand why this is especially important for international travelers.
Try to pack the things you´ll need to declare separately.
Read the signs in the Customs area. They contain helpful information about how to clear Customs.
Be aware that under U.S. law, Customs inspectors are authorized to examine luggage, cargo, and travelers. Under the search authority granted to Customs by the U.S. Congress, every passenger who crosses a U.S. border may be searched. To stop the flow of illegal drugs and other contraband into our country, we need your cooperation. If you are one of the very few travelers selected for a search, you will be treated in a courteous, professional, and dignified manner. | | | 14. Minimize Losses With Trip Cancellation Insurance Coverage | These new passports are an attempt to reduce dangerous situations. International travel is an exciting adventure but also poses many unpredictable situations, especially during these times. If an emergency, accident, illness, or other covered unforeseen event occurs before or during a trip, you could lose hundreds or thousands of dollars in non-refundable deposits. Cruises, package tours, and airline tickets typically require 100% prepayment. Unforeseen circumstances could make your trip impossible or undesirable, and could cause you to lose money on cancelled transportation and accommodations.
Trip cancellation coverage protects you against these types of losses and much more. We are dedicated to eliminating these uncertainties from international travel by making trip cancellation insurance coverage convenient and affordable. | | | 15. What You Must Declare at Customs | -Items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States.
-Items you received as gifts, such as wedding or birthday presents.
-Items you inherited.
-Items you bought in duty-free shops or on the ship or plane.
-Repairs or alterations to any items you took abroad and then brought back, even if the repairs/alterations were performed free of charge.
-Items you brought home for someone else.
-Items you intend to sell or use in your business.
-Items you acquired (whether purchased or received as gifts) in the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, or in a Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act country (please see section on $600 exemption for a list of these countries) that are not in your possession when you return. In other words, if you acquired things in any of these island nations and asked the merchant to send them to you, you must still declare them when you go through Customs. (This differs from the usual procedure for mailed items, which is discussed in the section on Sending Goods to the United States.
-You must state on the Customs declaration, in United States currency, what you actually paid for each item. The price must include all taxes. If you did not buy the item yourself - for example, if it is a gift - get an estimate of its fair retail value in the country where you received it. If you bought something on your trip and wore or used it on the trip, it´s still dutiable. You must declare the item at the price you paid or, if it was a gift, at its fair market value. | |
|
Additional TravelInsurance Sponsors
Become a Sponsor! |
1. Taking a Trip Soon? | | Make sure you are protected for all your International Travel needs. Come visit InternationalBenefits.com for your Travel Medical and Trip Cancellation Insurance. | |
2. Big Savings On Your Next Las Vegas Trip | | Get information about and big discounts on Las Vegas hotels and casinos. Also, links to Las Vegas shows, golf and much more including discount car rentals and airline tickets. | |
3. Sell Your Estate or Condo in Miami | | Estates And Condos is a luxury real estate agent offering full services in Dade and Broward counties, Florida. Complete MLS (Multiple Listing Service), photoshoot, signage and additional listings in local papers and web portals. | |
|
|
Additional TravelInsurance Sponsors |
|
Related LifeTips
Tip Sites | |
|
