Although the country is relatively safe, the U.S. State Department currently has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution warning level for Sweden. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Why Does Sweden Have an Elevated Travel Warning?

The State Department recommends exercising increased caution in Sweden due to terrorism, stating, “Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sweden. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”

When traveling to Sweden, the State Department advises following basic safety precautions, such as:

• Remaining aware of your surroundings in crowded public venues and popular tourist locations
• Following the instructions of local authorities
• Staying informed with local media
• Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before your trip
• Preparing an emergency plan

Pickpockets

As with most major cities, pickpocketing can be an issue in Sweden’s urban areas. Popular spots like Gothenburg’s Östra Nordstan shopping center, Stockholm’s Old Town, and crowded public transit are frequent targets. To stay safe, keep a close eye on your belongings and secure them at all times.

Taxi Scams

Sweden is a notoriously expensive country, and unfortunately, taxis are a very pricey way to get around. You could wind up paying even more than you expected, however, if you fall victim to a taxi scam. Some taxi drivers will take a longer route than necessary or tell tourists that the meter is in euros (rather than Swedish krona). 

Taxis must have a sticker on the passenger side window that clearly shows an average price. Check this before agreeing to a ride to make sure you’re getting a fare rate. It’s best to stick to the major taxi companies in Sweden, which are less likely to overcharge you.

If you want to take the guesswork out of your fare, Uber is available in Sweden. However, it can often be more expensive than a taxi. Sweden has an extensive public transit network that’s usually the fastest and most affordable way to travel.

Health & Safety

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all travelers to Sweden be up-to-date on all routine vaccinations. Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) is also a danger in Sweden. TBE is “highly endemic” in regions around Stockholm, including the Stockholm Archipelago, Malaren Lake, Uppsala, and Sodermanland. If you’re planning outdoor activities in warm weather in these regions, wear protective clothing and use insect repellent. Check yourself thoroughly for ticks at the end of each day.

The post Warnings and Dangers in Sweden: Is Sweden Safe? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Generally, the answer is a resounding yes. Violent crime in Croatia is rare, and overall crime levels are quite low, making it extremely safe to travel to Croatia. The U.S. State Department has given Croatia its lowest travel advisory level, Level One, indicating that you should “exercise normal precautions” when traveling.

Still, there are a few Croatia travel warnings that you should be aware of before arriving in this Balkan nation. As in most popular tourist destinations, pickpocketing and petty theft are common, so make sure to take the normal precautions, including keeping your wallet and phone in your front pocket and investing in a slash-resistant purse or backpack.

Also, some political tension does remain from the Croatian War of Independence, which, from 1991 to 1995, secured Croatia’s freedom from Yugoslavia. This means that occasional racially or ethnically motivated crimes do occur, according to the U.S. State Department. In addition, the threat of terrorism exists across all of Europe, but the U.S. government considers Zagreb a ”low-threat” area

It’s also good to keep in mind that Croatia sits on an earthquake fault and is subject to occasional minor seismic events. In recent years these have not been severe.

Tips for Staying Safe in Croatia

• Know where you’re going and when. Avoid dangers in Croatia by steering clear of certain parks at night, forgoing Zagreb’s shady strip clubs, staying away from political demonstrations, and doing all you can to thwart pickpockets wherever you go.
• Road safety can be an issue in Croatia, so drive with caution, if you drive at all. Beware of untrustworthy taxi drivers, as well as thieves who target travelers on trains and buses. And if you’re headed out to hike in Croatia’s forests, consult with a guide first, since the weather can be unpredictable.
• There are certain regions in Croatia where unexploded landmines are an ongoing danger. If you find yourself traveling off the beaten path, watch for posted warning signs, avoid ditches and open fields, and don’t veer off paved roads. If you’re in doubt about where you’re headed, don’t hesitate to ask locals for safety advice.

Safe Places—and Places to Avoid—in Croatia

Before we elaborate on the safest parts of Croatia, it’s worth answering a common question: “Where is Croatia?” It’s located on Europe’s Balkan Peninsula and bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Its coastline runs along the Adriatic Sea.

When looking at Croatia’s map and deciding where to go, keep in mind that there are some mildly dangerous places. In general, Zagreb has a higher risk of petty crimes that target travelers—especially pickpocketing—than Croatia’s other cities. Steer clear, especially, of the area around the seedy Zagreb Bus Terminal, and avoid Ribnjak Park and King Tomislav Square after dark.

Zagreb’s strip clubs are not safe for travelers. Violent fights are common, as are scams that involve egregiously overcharging tourists for drinks, sometimes by thousands of euros. When a customer complains about the exorbitant bill, bouncers bully him into paying with threats of violence.

Croatia’s nightclubs and bars (the non-strip variety, too) are also notorious for overcharging, so check your bill before paying and stick to reputable venues recommended by mainstream guidebooks. As with any destination, be careful at nightlife venues as drink and food spiking is common. This practice targets male travelers, too, with the intent of robbing them once they’re drowsy. So watch as your drink is being made, never leave your food or beverage unattended, and don’t accept cocktails from strangers.

Be particularly vigilant for pickpockets and other thieves on Croatia’s popular beaches along the Adriatic coast—go experience them, by all means, but know that many of these tourist towns see an uptick in petty crime over the busy summer months.

Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings in Croatia; though most are peaceful, they can occasionally turn violent or otherwise dangerous. If you find yourself in an area where an event like this is taking place, follow instructions from local authorities.

If you’re looking for Croatia’s safest places to visit, Zagreb’s Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and Lower Town (Donji Grad), both known for great restaurants and museums, tend to be very safe for travelers, though tourists should still be on high alert for pickpockets. Medvednica, the mountain overlooking Zagreb, and Medvedgrad, a preserved fortress, are very safe, both by day and by night, and are worthwhile destinations. According to one recent report, the safest place in Croatia is the beautiful, quiet Dalmatian town of Sinj, near Split; it’s followed by the towns of Dakovo, Pozega, Samobor, and Krizevci. Split and Dubrovnik made the top 15.

How to Get Around Safely in Croatia

To answer the question of whether Croatia is dangerous, one must look beyond crime rates and onto the roads. Many governments’ Croatia travel warnings note that road safety can be an issue and recommend that travelers exercise caution when driving in Croatia. Many of Croatia’s smaller roads (especially in Istria and along the Adriatic Coast) are poorly maintained, lack guardrails, and get slippery when wet, warns the Government of Canada. If you find yourself in trouble and needing emergency road assistance, call +385 1-1987, a service that’s staffed by English-speaking operators. During the tourist season, English-language traffic information is broadcast at 98.5 FM.

As for taxis, avoid scams by only taking official taxis with working meters, and by familiarizing yourself with Croatian money so that you don’t get cheated with incorrect change. Uber is a good alternative in some Croatian cities.

Most forms of public transportation are fairly safe in Croatia, though you might want to avoid the aforementioned Zagreb bus terminal after dark. If you take the bus or train, guard your valuables, especially at night, making sure that your passport and other valuables are locked and secure.

In general, to decrease your chances of becoming a crime victim in Croatia, don’t display signs of wealth, don’t carry large amounts of cash, never accept anything from strangers, beware of pickpockets at all times, never leave valuables unattended (especially on the beach), and use your in-room hotel safe. The emergency phone number in Croatia is 112, though you can also 192 to reach the police specifically. If you need assistance, you can also reach out to your home country’s embassy.

Croatia’s mountains are beautiful, so many travelers come here to hike. If that’s your plan, make sure to seek expert advice from local guides, even if you’re embarking on what seems like an easy trek. The weather in Croatia’s mountains is fickle, even in summer, and temperatures can drop dramatically overnight. Solo hikers have gotten lost in the mountains, so join a group if you can. Call the emergency number, 112, if you need help.

If you’re headed to Croatia’s northern forests, take precautions against ticks (which can transmit encephalitis) and against fires, which are common in Croatia’s forests during the country’s hot, dry summers. Make sure cigarette butts are completely extinguished, don’t light barbecues, and don’t leave behind any trash. In the event of a forest fire, earthquake, flash flood, or other natural disaster, monitor media reports and follow local authorities’ instructions.

Landmine Dangers in Croatia

Some travel destinations have figurative minefields. Croatia has literal ones, littered with unexploded bombs, leftover from conflicts that ended back in 1995. Sadly, in the era since peace was declared, these dangerous remnants have killed and maimed hundreds of people.

Demining efforts are underway in the affected areas—including Eastern Slavonia, Brodsko-Posavska County, Karlovac County, Zadar County, and out-of-the-way parts of Plitvice Lakes National Park—but won’t be finished anytime soon. Until then, travelers should take warning signs extremely seriously: They’re usually in Croatian, with a skull and crossbones set in a red triangle.

If you find yourself in these dangerous areas—which, fortunately, tend to be far from Croatia’s big tourist draws—stay on paved roads, keep an eye out for the aforementioned warning signs, and avoid open fields, ditches, and the shoulders of roads. If you’re in doubt, you can always ask locals for safety advice.

The post How Safe Is Croatia? Warnings and Dangers Travelers Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Are your days of flying domestically using only your driver’s license numbered? They could be if you don’t have a new type of license. As the deadline for the REAL ID Act looms, it’s vital for you to know if your current driver’s license doesn’t meet the new criteria.

If you’ve been procrastinating getting a REAL ID, it’s time to stop putting it off. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has just announced that all travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID by May 7, 2025, to board commercial airplanes.

Here’s a quick and easy primer with everything you need to know about the REAL ID Act, about when to use a REAL ID vs. a passport, and about the Department of Homeland Security’s hard deadline on the changes.

What Is the REAL ID Act?

The REAL ID Act “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses,” says the DHS. This Act applies to state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting IDs that do not meet the new standards.

This means that when the REAL ID ACT is in place, only driver’s licenses issued under REAL ID standards will be accepted at airports.

REAL ID Changes Timeline: When to Worry About Invalid IDs for Flying

In 2005, the REAL ID Act established nationwide requirements for state IDs as a post-9/11 security measure. States had well over a decade to make the changes, but the deadline to complete the transition has been extended multiple times. Some states struggled to make the switch to issuing the new, compliant licenses, having trouble finding the budget for the new licenses or lacking other logistical means to enact the changes.

May 7, 2025: According to the DHS website, by this date, “every air traveler will need a REAL ID-compliant license, or another acceptable form of identification, for domestic air travel,” as well as to enter federal government buildings. If by this date your state license is not a REAL ID compatible one, you will need to bring another form of ID to the airport, like a passport.

How Do I Get a REAL ID?

The process for getting your REAL ID is a little more difficult than the last time you renewed your license: You’ll probably have to visit a DMV and provide paperwork, like proof of residency and proof of lawful presence in the United States. You can, however, submit this paperwork (which you’ll still need to bring with you) online ahead of time for approval. Check your state’s DMV requirements online for more information.

If you’re a non-citizen or you think getting your ID might be more complicated for any other reason, check the Department of Homeland Security’s DHS REAL ID FAQ page for more information on your particular case.

REAL ID vs. Passports

If you’re unable to obtain a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you’ll need to bring a passport or another TSA-acceptable document with you to the airport in order to pass through security. The DHS reminded travelers often of the looming deadline, in part because if everyone rushes to get a REAL ID at once, there could be long wait times in many states.

Does a REAL ID Replace a Passport?

The short answer is no. You’ll need a REAL ID at minimum for domestic travel come May 2025, and your passport can work in place of a REAL ID for domestic travel—but a valid passport will still be required for international travel. So whether you have a REAL ID or not, a passport will always get you through airport security. And whether you have a REAL ID or not, a passport will always be required for international travel.

The post Everything Travelers Need to Know About the REAL ID Act appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The approved categories of travel are:

1. Family visits

2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations

3. Journalistic activity

4. Professional research and professional meetings

5. Educational activities

6. Religious activities

7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions

8. Support for the Cuban people

9. Humanitarian projects

10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes

11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials

12. Certain authorized export transactions

American travelers to Cuba may not stay at certain government-owned hotels that can be found on the U.S. State Department’s restricted list. Financial transactions are particularly complicated, as U.S. credit and debit cards typically don’t work in Cuba, requiring careful advance planning for expenses.

Breaking these travel regulations can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to $7,500.

Weather

If you’re planning on traveling to Cuba, be extra cautious during hurricane season, which is from early June to the end of November. “American citizens who are planning to be in Cuba during hurricane season should consider the potential dangers and inconveniences associated with hurricanes and should devise an emergency plan before a storm’s arrival,” warns the U.S. Embassy in Cuba. “Regions affected by hurricanes and tropical storms may experience widespread damage to infrastructure and serious shortages of habitable accommodations, food, water, and medical facilities.”

November through April is the best time to visit Cuba. You may want to avoid visiting from May to around the end of September when temperatures can be very high. Sun exposure is also a concern. Be sure to pack lots of sunscreen when visiting, as it is not readily available to purchase in Cuba. 

Crime

As in any country, crime is a concern in Cuba. “Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and car break-ins, is a threat for tourists in Cuba,” advises the U.S. State Department.  “Also, violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, sometimes occurs in Cuba.” Keep your cameras, wallets, purses, passports, and other valuables close to your body when on the beach or walking through Havana. 

Driving

Driving in Cuba is an experience. You can rent a car, but it’s expensive and can be hazardous. Most rental car agencies are government-owned, which can be a problem for American citizens. 

Driving in Cuba can be dangerous and difficult. Road signs are rare, as are lights. The drivers don’t always have headlights, and potholes are everywhere. Unless you’re an experienced driver with nerves of steel, renting a car may not be the best option. It’s easy to instead hire a car and driver, even for multi-day trips, so you don’t have to worry about driving yourself. 

Supplies

Due to ongoing sanctions and trade restrictions, it can be difficult to find basic medications, supplies, and food to purchase in Cuba. Be sure to pack everything you will need during your trip, and don’t count on being able to buy anything you forgot. Bringing extra essentials to donate will be greatly appreciated by locals. 

Payment

Travelers will not be able to use American debit or credit cards in Cuba, so bring plenty of US Dollars to exchange. 

Power Outages

Power outages, both planned rolling blackouts and unplanned outages, are common occurrences in Cuba. Pack a flashlight with plenty of batteries, along with portable chargers for your phones and electronic devices. 

The post Cuba Warnings and Dangers: Can U.S. Citizens Visit Cuba? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Winter Travel Tips for Flying

Always Fly Direct

The worst winter travel problems frequently occur at connecting airports. If your first outbound flight is canceled and you end up returning to your own home from your local airport, that’s not too bad; if you are stuck in your vacation hotel hoping to get a flight home, that’s a bit worse. But when you’re stuck in a connecting airport in Texas calling hotels and praying for a place to stay, you’re in what I would call your worst-case scenario.

For this reason, you should fly nonstop whenever possible. To find nonstop flights, do all your initial flight searches with the “Nonstop Flights Only” button checked on your favorite booking engine. If you also use search options like “Show Nearby Airports” and “My Dates Are Flexible,” you’ll have a very good sense of how best to get from Point A to B without any Point C for connection.

Beware of Layover Times

If you absolutely must fly with a connection, watch your layover times carefully. If a weather delay causes you to miss your connection, you might be out of luck; the airline is not necessarily obligated to find you a seat on the next flight, and often cannot logistically do so if flights are full or unavailable. If you have a really tight connection time and your flight is running late, tell a flight attendant who may be able to make arrangements to hold your next flight, or at least get you off your first flight quickly.

Watch Out for Bad Weather

Check the weather at your connecting cities as well as at your departure and destination airports. You’ll want to know what the weather is like for the departure and arrival airports (particularly if we’re traveling on vacation), but for the same reasons stated above you’ll want to know what is going on at your connecting airport as well. If the weather looks threatening, contact your airline to see if it can reroute you; it may be in its best interest to do so, and save you a lot of grief. Your chances of getting on a different flight will be greatly enhanced if you’ve already done the research yourself to determine which alternate flights might work best. Don’t count on a gate agent to know about or search the schedules of other airlines.

Connect Through a Warm-Weather Destination

Try to book your connection through a southern city where weather shouldn’t be an issue. There are no guarantees here, as northern airports tend to be better equipped to deal with winter conditions, and a snowstorm can almost wholly shut down an airport that more often suffers from too much sun. However, your odds are better in places that rarely see ice or snow.

Book an Early Morning Flight

Choose a morning flight. For two reasons: First, you are far less likely to have your flight affected by problems at other airports. Second, if your flight is canceled or badly delayed, your options for alternate flights are greatly increased, improving your odds for getting on a different flight by the end of the day.

Route Through Smaller Airports

Consider alternative airports. Very often the problem is not solely weather, but also the overall volume of passengers and flights. In places like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Houston, second-tier airports aren’t too far out of town and are tied into the transportation grid.

Prep for Airport Security Ahead of Time

Get ahead of the game at security. Before you even get in line, put all your gear and spare coins into a pocket of your carry-on bag. With so much valuable stuff getting dumped into plastic bins all day, every day, it’s inevitable that stuff gets left behind, dropped, damaged, broken, or even stolen. If you take 15 seconds to stow everything, you’ll make the time up twice over on either side of the security gate, and won’t risk losing cell phones, wallets, keys, and other essentials. Find more airport security tips in our TSA Frequently Asked Questions guide.

Save the Gift Wrapping for Your Destination

The annual holiday travel rule: Don’t wrap gifts—security will have to rip them open. With the TSA searching checked bags as well as carry-ons, this applies to all of your luggage; not just what you bring onto the plane with you. Consider shipping your gifts ahead of time or wrapping them once you get to your destination. Our complete guide on flying with gifts will help you navigate any holiday packing issue. 

Avoid Peak Travel Dates

Finally, avoid peak travel dates as best you can, particularly holiday weekends. Find out the ideal (and not do ideal) dates to book holiday flights in our handy guide.

Winter Travel Tips for Driving

Stock an Emergency Kit

Put some extra clothing and emergency items into your vehicle; these will come in handy if you break down in cold weather. Assemble a basic kit including a pair of gloves, weather-resistant pants and/or coat, maybe an old pair of boots, a blanket, jumper cables, a flashlight with some extra batteries, and a windshield scraper (and maybe a de-icer), and you should be in good shape. You might also toss a few nutrition bars in as well; things that won’t spoil, are packed with calories, and can bail you out in a pinch.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Weather

Make sure your car is checked over for winter weather readiness. In particular, you or a mechanic should inspect your tires before the first big winter storm.

Prioritize Visibility 

Once your vehicle is inspected and equipped, follow this advice I heard a while back from a Montana snowplow driver: “See and be seen. Keep your headlights and taillights clean, especially in stormy weather. Keep windows clean and make sure defrosters work well. If snow has built up on your vehicle overnight or after a break from driving, clear it away so it doesn’t blow off and obscure your windows.”

Drive Slow

Slow down. The U.S. Department of Transportation recommends slowing down by about 50 percent in bad weather. Also leave extra space between you and the car in front of you in case of slippery roads.

Watch Out for Icy Conditions

Remember that not all stretches of road are created alike. For example, many recently built small bridges and overpasses have been designed to blend into the surroundings, with a gradual or nonexistent change in elevation. These bridges nonetheless remain susceptible to icing over much more rapidly than regular blacktop. Look out and look ahead for these short stretches of road when temperatures approach or drop below freezing. If you don’t know the ropes of driving on icy surfaces, here’s how to drive on black ice.

Skip the Cruise Control

Some features of modern automobiles may actually serve you poorly in bad conditions. In some SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles, for example, you may have better traction when the vehicle is under way, but the four-wheel drive won’t help you stop any faster. Also, skip the cruise control; your cruise control feature may accelerate when you least want it to, such as when you are climbing an icy bridge.

Keep Cat Litter On Hand

Some safety experts recommend putting a bag of kitty litter in the trunk, both for added ballast to offer better traction, and to put under the wheels if you need to get yourself out of a slippery spot.

Stay Safe If Stranded

If you’re stranded and have to stay in your car, you can run the engine for heat, but make sure the exhaust pipe is not obstructed by snow or mud. If you prefer not to have the engine running the whole time, close the windows to keep heat in, and run the car for 10 minutes every hour, cracking open a front window when you do so.

Park Indoors When Possible

If you are parking at your hotel or near attractions in bad weather, opt for a spot in an indoor parking garage when available.

The post 18 Winter Travel Tips for Flights and Road Trips appeared first on SmarterTravel.

TSA Rules for Flying with Gifts

Here’s how to avoid having to toss your special gift or souvenir whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, and a few alternative items to consider purchasing instead.

1) Avoid Toys That Look Like Weapons

This might seem like a no-brainer when it comes to TSA rules, but airports intercept a lot of toy or replica weapons that appear to baggage scanners to be the real thing. At the security line, there’s a fine line between toys, sports equipment, and weapons: Toys resembling guns, swords, and explosives are sure to spook your security screener; but sporting equipment like bats and lacrosse sticks that could be used as a weapon will be snagged as well.

What to Do Instead: Your best bet is to check all sporting items, and to avoid packing anything resembling a weapon. “In general, it’s best to avoid packing toy or replica weapons in carry-on luggage,” TSA Spokesman Michael McCarthy told me. “These items should be placed in checked luggage or left at home when possible.”

2) No Alcohol Over 140-Proof

A lesser-known item that’s banned from both checked and carry-on bags, strong liquors over 140-proof (70 percent alcohol) like absinthe or 151-proof rum are prohibited from planes by the Federal Aviation Administration. Don’t plan on gifting a bottle of absinthe you got in Amsterdam or bringing back some 151-proof liquor from a distillery visit; TSA can confiscate it on behalf of the FAA, regardless of which bag you packed it in.

What to Do Instead: Your souvenir doesn’t have to be jet-fuel strong—try grabbing a less flammable local spirit, or opt for a subscription service to enjoy wine varietals from around the world without having to pack them: Vinebox delivers wines tailored to your tastes starting around $80 per month, and makes a great gift.

3) Skip the Gift Wrap

Getting a jump on wrapping isn’t a good idea if you’ll be flying with gifts. Anything wrapped in paper, like presents or food items like pies (which are allowed, but subject to extra screening) are likely to be unwrapped for inspection if agents can’t tell through the scanner if it violates TSA rules.

What to Do Instead: Use gift bags instead of wrapping gifts. Gifts wrapped in festive, easy-open gift bags can be easily rewrapped if necessary and won’t violate any TSA rules.

4) Leave Toy Holiday ‘Crackers’ Behind

I’m not talking about snacks: Those English-style cardboard Christmas crackers that pop and explode with tiny gifts like paper crowns are prohibited from planes and therefore against TSA rules. While they’re a fun tradition and could seem like a great souvenir if you’re returning from the U.K., they’re banned from aircraft, meaning they’ll likely be tossed from your checked or carry-on bags.

What to Do Instead: These can usually be purchased online or back home, if you’re really set on having them for your holiday celebrations.

 5) Minimize Carry-on Liquids

Don’t forget that 3-1-1 TSA rules also apply to traveling with gifts. Bottles of wine or spirits will have to be checked unless they’re under 3.4 ounces, and the same goes for cologne and perfumes that are over the liquid limit. Also remember to avoid aerosol items that could be considered flammable.

What to Do Instead: If you’re not checking a bag but want to purchase a gift bottle of perfume or wine, buying at the duty-free shop beyond airport security is your only option. Make the best of it by getting something you can’t at home, or that’s more affordable when it’s tax-free.

6) Declare Animal Products Like Cheeses with Customs

This one doesn’t fall under TSA rules—solid cheese is fine to pack for domestic travel. However, international food souvenirs like meats and cheeses could get tossed per customs and agriculture regulations on animal products if they aren’t declared or if they violate requirements. Splurging on fancy cheese or charcuterie to gift with local wine probably isn’t worthwhile if it won’t make it home.

What to Do: To be safe, make sure you declare all animal-derived food items at customs, and keep creamy or water-packed cheeses under 3.4 ounces if they’re in your carry-on bag. Or, if you don’t want to risk wasting money on international items that could easily get confiscated, sign up for a subscription service that will ship both your favorite international items and new ones to try, like Try the World, from $40 per month.

 7) Snow Globes

Even if you’re flying with gifts that aren’t necessarily meant to be opened, they can still be discarded under TSA rules if they contain liquid over the 3.4-ounce limit. TSA rules state that snow globes bigger than a tennis ball should stay behind.

What to Do Instead: If you’re not already shopping online, it’s the way to go.

The post Flying with Gifts: The TSA Rules You Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

From navigating natural disasters to avoiding dangerous situations, these aren’t just clever shortcuts—they’re survival skills for the savvy traveler. Whether you’re backpacking through remote regions or staying at five-star hotels, these life-saving travel hacks could mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.

Display Vital Health Information on Your Phone

Certain smartphone apps let you display essential health information (such as severe allergies or medical conditions) right on your lock screen so doctors and first responders can see them even without your password or fingerprint. This is particularly useful for solo travelers who don’t have a companion to advocate for them. Such apps include the Health app on your iPhone and the Medical ID app for Android.

Stow Money in Your Shoe

One ageless and deeply analog tactic for getting out of a jam is to keep a $100 bill (or the local equivalent) in your shoe. If you’re pickpocketed, robbed, or lose your wallet, having an emergency cash stash can pay for your transportation to the police station or back to your hotel, where you can sort everything out. 

It’s best if the money is in the local currency, so when you first arrive in a new country, take a bill from your initial ATM withdrawal and stash it somewhere safe.

Split up Your Valuables

If you’re traveling with a friend, don’t have one person carry all the critical stuff such as passports, credit cards, cash, and hotel keys. If one person loses or is robbed of their backpack or purse, you don’t want to lose everything.

If you’re traveling alone, request two hotel keys, and put one in your wallet or purse and the other in your pocket or money belt. Split up cash and credit cards in a similar fashion, with some easily accessible and some hidden in a money belt or your hotel safe. This way, if you are robbed, you can hand over what appears to be everything you have and will hopefully be allowed to go safely on your way without being left without empty-handed.

Save Emergency Numbers in Your Contacts

While 911 is the emergency number in the U.S., it won’t work in many other countries. To help travelers find the correct phone number in other destinations, the U.S. State Department has a handy PDF list of emergency numbers by country. Note that many have different numbers for ambulance, fire, and police, so save all of them individually in your contacts.

In some situations, calling the emergency number might not be appropriate, so it’s also worth looking up and saving the non-emergency numbers of local law enforcement and your home country’s nearest embassy. U.S. citizens may also want to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so the embassy can contact you in case of an emergency.

If you have an iPhone, there is an automated way to call the local emergency number. Simultaneously press and hold the side button and either volume button until the emergency sliders appear and the countdown on Emergency SOS ends, then release the buttons.

Alternatively, you can enable your iPhone to call emergency services when you rapidly press the side button five times in a row. To turn this feature on, go to Settings, Emergency SOS, and then turn on “Call with 5 Presses”.

Stay Between the Third and Sixth Floors

You probably choose your hotel room for its amenities or views, but you should also consider your safety. Don’t accept a room on the ground floor if you can avoid it. We recommend staying between the third and sixth floors, as these rooms are high enough to deter break-ins but low enough for fire engine ladders to reach.

Don’t Let Your Gas Tank Get Low

Keeping an eye on your gas tank will help you avoid running out of gas or having to fuel up in a questionable area. This is particularly important if you’re traveling in harsh environments such as deserts, remote areas, or extremely cold parts of the world, where being stranded without gas could quickly become life-threatening.

Use Caution When Drinking

Being in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language or know the local laws makes you vulnerable; don’t compound this by drinking to excess. Watch your drink being poured, don’t let it out of your sight, and don’t have more than one or two, especially if you’re traveling alone.

Be Willing to Spend When You Feel Unsafe

Everyone wants to save a few bucks when they travel, but it’s not worth your life. If you’re unsure of your surroundings or facing a long walk back to your hotel at night, don’t hesitate to spend extra money on a cab ride to get yourself to safety. The same goes for an Airbnb whose host makes you uncomfortable or a motel that’s in a worse neighborhood than you expected. Don’t stick around if your safety is at risk.

Follow Your Taxi or Carshare Route on a Mapping App

Keeping an eye on the route when you get into a rideshare can help you avoid getting lost or ending up in a sketchy area. If you sense trouble, call your emergency numbers and get out of the car if possible, preferably in a populated area where someone can help.

Have Your First Night’s Lodging Set

Over the years, I have pulled into towns with no plan for lodging; sometimes it went well, sometimes not so well. I can tell you that wandering around in an unfamiliar city with all your bags is not that fun—and could make you a target for thieves. Even if it’s expensive, have your first night’s stay nailed down whenever possible.

Manage Your Allergies

If you have any life-threatening allergies, make sure you learn how to say and spell the name of that item in the local language. You’ll also want to advertise your allergy somehow, perhaps by wearing a medical bracelet or carrying a food allergy card such as those from Select Wisely.

Update Friends and Family

It’s never been easier to keep friends and family updated on your location, and having someone at home know where you are supposed to be can be very useful in an emergency. Send quick texts or emails home noting the city, hotel, or attraction you are visiting so folks know where to find you if something happens.

The post 12 Life-Saving Travel Hacks for Your Next Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

It only takes a few minutes to find the number that may save your or someone else’s life, thus making it the one thing you should be adding to your phone before a trip abroad. Consider it part of your itinerary research process.

Emergency Numbers Around the World

Here are some popular English-speaking destinations’ emergency numbers around the world, and how to find any other ones you need.

• Australia uses 000, and New Zealand uses 111.
• Canada and Mexico use the North American standard of 911, as do all American territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands)
• Much of the Caribbean uses the North American 911 standard, including Antigua & Barbuda (911 and 999), Aruba, the Bahamas (911 and 919), Bermuda, Bonaire, Belize, the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts, St. Lucia (911 and 999), St. Vincent (911 and 999), and Turks and Caicos.
• The European Union has created a universal number of 112. Several non-E.U. countries in Europe, including Norway and Switzerland, have also adopted the 112 standard. Outside of the E.U., India also uses 112, as well as South Korea. However, in South Korea, use 1330 for medical emergencies; this number is specifically for foreigners in Seoul.
• Jamaica uses 110 (for fire, police, and ambulance) and 119 (for police).
• The Philippines uses 911.
• Japan uses two numbers: 119 (ambulance and fire) and 110 (police).
• South Africa seems to be the only English-speaking country to use more than three digits: 10177 (ambulance and fire) and 10111 (police).
• The United Kingdom uses both 999 and the 112 E.U. standard.
• In Hong Kong, the emergency number is 999.
• Brazil uses 190 for police, 192 for ambulance, and 193 for fire.

In non-English-speaking countries, there’s no guarantee the operator will speak English. However, the Department of State provides a list of emergency numbers around the world (organized alphabetically)—and it’s a good idea to have your destination’s number saved regardless.

Once you have the number for the country you’re visiting, take the time to store it in a place that’s easily accessible (such as your mobile device), but you should also remember it in case your phone isn’t readily available in an emergency. Even if you do have your phone handy, you’ll be able to dial the number faster if you know it by heart rather than fumbling through your contacts and wasting precious time. It only takes a minute, and it really is better to be safe than sorry.

As a back-up to the 911 equivalent, consider saving the nearest U.S. Embassy’s direct and/or emergency line into your contacts. This could be helpful in less urgent emergencies, like a lost passport or an evacuation situation—each of which could require official assistance.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2008. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post The One Thing You Need to Add into Your Phone Before Traveling Abroad appeared first on SmarterTravel.

That’s the takeaway from too many tragic plane emergencies, including the May 2019 explosion of Aeroflot flight 1492 in Moscow, which killed 41 people. In that incident, a lightning strike forced the pilots to make an emergency landing. The plane caught fire but remained intact, and passengers were prompted to evacuate.

However, as details about the incident emerged, investigators signaled that more people could have survived if not for one preventable reason. Video shows passengers dragging carry-on bags with them as they flee the burning plane, and reports suggest the evacuation was slowed by people retrieving their belongings from the overhead bins.

“Reports from people on the plane indicate the evacuation may have been slowed by passengers grabbing their bags. Videos show passengers taking their carry-on bags with them as they exited the plane,” the Association of Flight Attendants said in a statement. “We will never know if more lives could have been saved if the bags were left behind.”

The purpose of posing this question is not to blame the victims of a tragic incident. However, it is a reminder that it’s always worth a refresher on what to do—and what not to do—when you need to evacuate in a plane emergency.

Your Bags Are Never Worth It

The tragic Aeroflot emergency is not the only aviation incident in recent years that has brought in-flight safety to the forefront of travelers’ minds. This year alone saw the collision and evacuation of Japan Airlines flight 516, an easyJet flight filled with smoke on the runway, and a string of safety issues with the Boeing 737 Max aircraft, prompting passengers to pay extra attention to the safety demonstration.

If you find yourself in an evacuation situation, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) makes no mistake about it: “If an emergency evacuation is necessary, leave your carry-on items on the plane. Retrieving personal items may impede the safe evacuation of passengers.”

This bears repeating because, as we’ve reported in the past, people seem inclined to do the opposite. During a recent incident in which a laptop caught fire in the cabin of an American Airlines flight, evacuation was stalled by passengers attempting to retrieve their hand luggage against the instruction of the flight attendants. Understandably, the idea of leaving things behind is difficult to accept—losing a laptop, passport, or cash can be an inconvenience. Or perhaps the banality of modern airline travel makes travelers complacent in emergency situations, thinking the danger or urgency is overblown. If that’s the case, though, you’ll likely see your possessions again soon.

It’s also worth nothing that with seat sizes shrinking and plane cabins getting more crowded than ever, it could take longer than you’d think to evacuate. The FAA, in guidelines set forth in 1967, states that commercial aircraft should be able to evacuate completely in 90 seconds. According to an NPR report, it took approximately 5 minutes to complete the evacuation of passengers aboard Japan Airlines flight 516 and 18 minutes for the captain to finally disembark, demonstrating that even a well-executed evacuation can take far longer than the FAA’s standard.

What to Always Do

But as safe as airline travel is, incidents like the Aeroflot fire illustrate the fine line between surviving and perishing in non-crash situations. So, even though you may know the standard onboard safety presentation by heart, here are a few must-do tips for evacuating a plane quickly:

• Look: Locate the nearest emergency exit when you take your seat so you know which way to go. Count the number rows between you and the nearest exit in case you need to navigate in the dark.
• Listen: In the event of an emergency, listen to the flight attendants’ instructions and follow them precisely. Remember, they’re trained for this.
• Leave it behind: Everything in your baggage can be replaced. Your life or well-being, and that of your fellow passengers, cannot.

The post What Not to Do When Exiting a Plane During an Emergency appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Here are some important facts about the Trusted Traveler programs, from who you can bring with you through expedited screenings to who can cut you in the security line.

Additional reporting by Megan Johnson

You Can’t Bring Your Kids Through With You

Only travelers with Global Entry memberships can go through Global Entry lanes at customs—no exceptions. This means parents/guardians traveling with children cannot bring their kids through with them unless the children have their own Global Entry memberships. 

However, children 12 and under can use TSA PreCheck lanes with an adult with a PreCheck membership. Children aged 13-17 traveling on the same reservation with an enrolled adult can only use the TSA PreCheck lane if they have the TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass.

Global Entry is Free for Children Under 18

Luckily, even though your kids can’t go through Global Entry lines with you, Global Entry is free for children 18 and under as long as their parent or guardian is applying for it or already have it. All applicants must hold a valid US passport and apply separately.

Interviews Upon Arrival are Available

If you can’t find a convenient Global Entry interview appointment, save yourself a trip out to the airport by doing Enrollment on Arrival during your next international trip. 

This program allows Global Entry applicants who are conditionally approved to complete their interviews upon arrival into the United States—no appointment necessary. Simply follow the airport signage to Global Entry after you land. Just remember to bring the required documents that you’ll need for your application (proof of residency and a valid passport.)

Global Entry Only Costs $42 More Than TSA PreCheck

If you’re going to leave the country at all in the next five years, it’s an easy decision to choose a Global Entry membership over TSA PreCheck. 

Global Entry costs $120 for five years, and TSA PreCheck costs $78 for the same time period. A Global Entry membership automatically includes a TSA PreCheck membership, plus offers expedited customs screenings when reentering the United States.

Both programs have a similar application process, and each requires an in-person interview that includes fingerprinting.

The extra $42 for Global Entry is worth it to skip the long customs line after a long international flight!

Military Members Get PreCheck for Free

Active military members can participate in TSA PreCheck for free—no application or enrollment required.

To get the benefits of TSA PreCheck, simply enter your Department of Defense ID number as your Known Traveler Number when buying an airplane ticket, and you should automatically get the TSA PreCheck symbol on your boarding pass.

Unfortunately, military members don’t get Global Entry for free. 

Global Entry Applications Take a Long Time

Want to get a Global Entry membership before your next international trip? Better plan ahead, as according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Global Entry applications are currently taking between 4-6 months to be processed. 

Additionally, appointments for application interviews are often booked up two or more months out at major airports. 

You Don’t Even Need to Show Your Passport With Global Entry

Entering the United States with Global Entry has gotten even faster lately. When the program first launched, flyers had to use a machine to scan their passports and fingerprints in order to be processed. Now, most airports feature kiosks with facial recognition technology, so all you have to do is snap a photo of your face and you’re done. 

You Might Still Get Cut in Line

One of the best parts of having a TSA PreCheck membership is getting to feel smug when you cut all of the regular flyers in line for security. Unfortunately, you might still get cut in line yourself, as CLEAR members get top priority in line.

A CLEAR membership only allows you to skip the security line—if you’re tempted to sign up, just know that you’ll also need to pay for a TSA PreCheck membership if you want screening perks like going through the metal detector instead of the body scanner.

Watch out for Scam Websites

When you’re ready to apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you might just Google the name of the program and sign up through the first link you see.

There are a number of sponsored links that show up first in Google search results for both programs that are not the official application sites.

Only apply for Global Entry through the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and TSA PreCheck through the TSA’s website. Remember to look for a URL ending in .gov to make sure you are on a real government website, and not a spoof site pretending to be official. 

The post 9 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know About TSA PreCheck & Global Entry appeared first on SmarterTravel.