Travelling around the US should be an enjoyable experience for any international student but before setting off, make sure you’re equipped with these tips to stay safe
The life of an international student in the US should be fun and exciting – a whirlwind experience that is both academically fulfilling and culturally invigorating. But it’s still important to be responsible and, most of all, safe when travelling around the country.
We’ve put together 10 tips to help you stay safe while exploring the US so you can enjoy what this wonderful country has to offer:
1. Before arrival
Ensuring you can enjoy your time in the US to its fullest depends on carrying out some important admin before you arrive. Research the safety and security standards of the institution you’ll be attending and, if you already have travel plans, think carefully about what you want to see, being mindful of typical dos and don’ts.
2. Keep your valuables nearby
This is a universal tip when travelling. Generally speaking, the US is a safe country for international students, with the rate of violent crime in the country decreasing sharply over the past 25 years. Having said that, crime rates do vary markedly between states. Stay aware of your surroundings and always keep a close eye on your belongings.
3. Be respectful of different cultures
Due to the influence of its Hollywood blockbusters, chart-topping bands and online influencers, it can sometimes feel as though US culture is the world’s culture. While that is true to an extent, it’s worth remembering that the US is a huge and diverse place – time spent on the West Coast, for example, will be significantly different to travelling around the Deep South. Be mindful of different cultural norms wherever you are and be respectful when chatting to locals.
4. Drink responsibly
The legal age for the consumption of alcohol in the US is 21, which can come as a shock to students from abroad who are used to being able to purchase alcohol at 18 or even younger. Even if you are 21 or above, don’t overdo it when drinking alcohol in the US. Keep your wits about you and don’t drink with people you don’t know well.
5. Be vigilant
Another general rule for travellers: be watchful when in unfamiliar surroundings. For an international student, the US contains so much to see and do – from the bars of New Orleans’ French Quarter to the bright lights of Las Vegas. But it’s easy to lose your bearings looking down at your itinerary or up at towering skyscrapers. Savour every moment of your trip but stay aware of what’s going on around you, keeping an eye out for any suspicious behaviour.
6. Have emergency numbers to hand
Although you hopefully won’t need them, it’s important that you have ready access to emergency telephone numbers when you’re in the US. The nationwide number for emergencies is 911 but there are other important numbers you should be aware of. Find out the telephone number for the local police department and make sure you remember any personal contacts too. Plus, be ready with important information about your location if you do contact the emergency services.
7. Tell someone where you’re going
One of the most effective ways of ensuring your safety when travelling around the US is to make sure someone else knows your location and what your plans are. The ubiquity of smartphones and public wi-fi means it is cheap and straightforward to send a message telling a friend or family member of your whereabouts. It’s worth purchasing a US SIM card to ensure you aren’t left hunting down a cafe offering free wi-fi.
8. Don’t share your personal information
Because international students are unlikely to be as familiar with the sort sof phone calls or email messages that are commonly received in the US, they are seen as prime targets for fraudsters. To avoid falling victim to identity theft, keep your personal documents secure, including your bank cards, passport and anything else with personally identifiable information. Be careful when receiving suspicious or unexpected emails and don’t share sensitive information over the phone.
9. Get insured
The healthcare system in the US works quite differently to many other countries, with medical bills potentially adding up to an eye-watering sum. Should you need medical attention while in the US, make sure you have purchased health insurance to avoid facing an unwanted expense. Many US universities require students to have health insurance so make sure you check the details of your enrolment.
10. Learn about your surroundings
Before you go travelling, be sure to carry out some research. Find out about what the people who live in your target location are generally like, what some of the cultural highlights are, and whether any areas are considered less safe – that way you’ll know how to avoid them. Gaining a thorough understanding of the US is not only important to remaining safe in the country; it’s also the best way of ensuring you have a good time – and that, after all, is what travel is all about.
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