Safety

Safety begins when you pack

Dress conservatively
Avoid appearing affluent
Carry very little that is valuable

Avoid handbags, fanny packs or outside pockets
Use a pouch or money belt under your clothing
Carry a decoy purse/wallet with very little in it
When you leave the United States, you are subject to the laws of the country you are in and are no longer protected by the US Constitution

Learn the laws of the country you are in (www.lonelyplanet.com)
More than 1/3 of U.S. citizens jailed abroad are held on drug charges
Keep track of recent developments in the country you are in

Know the hour of the subway and when the buses run and stop running

Use the same common sense traveling overseas as you would at home

Don't use shortcuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit street
Avoid walking alone
Avoid public demonstrations
Keep a low profile
Don't discuss your travel plans with strangers
Beware of pickpockets
Know how to use the pay phones
If you are confronted, don't fight back
Lock your room and don't leave any valuables there

Read the fire instructions in your residence

Carry a variety of payment methods, the safest being travelers checks

Change traveler's checks only as you need cash

Keep travelers checks receipts in your luggage in case of theft
Carry small amounts of cash for small expenses like cab fare

Keep purses and bags facing into your body and always keep a hand on the strap

Hold bags tight when in crowded places, especially the metro or underground

Never let your passport out of your sight

Carry a cash card to avoid overabundance of money in your wallet

ATM's can be found everywhere
Check with your cash card company on procedures in foreign countries or if your card can only be used in certain machines
Report theft immediately to the authorities

If you become ill or are injured, contact the U.S. embassy for a list of medical facilities

If you get in legal difficulty, contact the consulate immediately

Keep a card with your doctor's name and contact information and a list of your medications and allergies with you at all times

Study street maps of your destination in advance of your travel

Ask about unsafe areas to avoid

Some phone numbers to carry with you

Airline customer service
Insurance for medical and auto
U.S. consulate and embassy
Relatives at home
Car/shuttle service