Travel Warnings to USA: Safety, Security, and Essential Tips for Travelers

Planning a trip to the United States? While the U.S. is a popular and generally safe destination, it’s essential to be aware of potential travel warnings and safety precautions to ensure a smooth and secure journey. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of travel warnings for the USA, covering safety and security concerns, health advisories, legal and cultural considerations, and natural disaster risks.

Safety and Security in the USA

The United States generally has a “Take normal security precautions” advisory level. However, like any country, it’s important to be informed about specific risks and take necessary precautions.

Border with Mexico: Increased Vigilance

The border region with Mexico, particularly in California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, experiences higher criminal activity related to drug trafficking.

Car Travel: If crossing the U.S.-Mexico border by car, exercise extreme caution.
- Use only official border crossings.
- Remain vigilant.
- Avoid night travel.

Crime: Urban Centers and Tourist Areas

Crime, both petty and violent, is a concern in the USA, especially in urban centers and tourist hotspots.

Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and Theft

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching are common, especially in crowded tourist areas and cities.

Vehicle Safety: Never leave bags or valuables unattended in parked cars, including rental vehicles, even in trunks.
Personal Belongings: Keep passports and travel documents secure at all times.

Violent Crime: Urban Areas and Gang Activity

Violent crime is more prevalent in poorer neighborhoods of large cities, particularly at night. While tourists are less frequently targeted, it’s crucial to be aware.

Situational Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in urban areas.
Neighborhood Research: Check official crime statistics for neighborhoods you plan to visit, especially at night. Use resources like the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer.
Robbery Response: If confronted by robbers, remain calm and do not resist.

Gun Violence: High Firearm Possession

Gun ownership rates are high in the U.S., and it is legal to openly carry firearms in public in many states. Mass shootings, resulting in casualties, are a recurring concern.

Risk Awareness: Understand the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time during a mass shooting, though tourists are rarely involved.
Active Shooter Response: Familiarize yourself with how to react in an active shooter situation. Resources like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide can be helpful.

Home Break-ins: Vacation Homes

Vacation homes, particularly those owned by foreign residents, can be targets for break-ins and burglaries.

Home Security: Ensure windows and doors are securely locked at night and when you are away from your accommodation.

Common Criminal Strategies: Tourist Targeting

Criminals sometimes employ ploys to target tourists, especially those leaving airports or tourist destinations.

Highway Robbery Ploys: Be wary of signals from other drivers indicating vehicle problems. Criminals may use this as a pretext to stop you and steal valuables. They may also throw objects at your windshield to force you to pull over.
Response to Ploys: If you suspect such a ploy, do not pull over on the side of the road. Instead, turn on your hazard lights and slowly drive to a safe, populated area like a gas station or police station.

Demonstrations: Potential for Disruption

Demonstrations can occur in the USA and may become violent unexpectedly, causing disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoidance: Stay clear of areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
Authority Instructions: Follow instructions from local authorities.
Local Media Monitoring: Keep track of local news for updates on demonstrations.

Fraud: Credit Card and ATM Scams

Credit card and ATM fraud, including debit card cloning, is a risk.

Card Handling: Be attentive when your cards are handled by others.
ATM Safety: Use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks or businesses.
Card Reader Inspection: Avoid card readers that appear irregular or unusual.
PIN Protection: Shield the keypad when entering your PIN.
Transaction Monitoring: Regularly check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Terrorism: Ongoing Threat

There is a persistent threat of terrorism in the USA. Attacks could occur at any time and target various locations, including:

Government buildings, schools
Places of worship
Airports, transportation hubs
Tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping centers, hotels
Public Vigilance: Always be aware of your surroundings in public places.
National Terrorism Advisory System: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operates a public alert system for terrorism threats. Stay informed through the National Terrorism Advisory System website.

Hiking and Mountaineering: Safety First

For activities like hiking, backpacking, or skiing, safety is paramount.

Guided Activities: Never engage in these activities alone. Hire experienced guides from reputable companies.
Travel Insurance: Obtain travel insurance that covers helicopter rescue and medical evacuation.
Route Information: Get detailed information about trails or slopes before starting. Stay on marked paths.
Physical Condition: Ensure you are physically fit for the planned activity.
Equipment and Weather: Be properly equipped and informed about weather and potential hazards.
Itinerary Sharing: Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.
Altitude Sickness Awareness: Know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal.

Air Travel: Domestic Airline Safety

Assessments regarding the compliance of U.S. domestic airlines with international safety standards are not provided. It is advisable to research individual airlines if concerned about safety records.

Image alt text: Safety and security icon representing travel warnings to USA, emphasizing vigilance and awareness of potential risks.

Entry and Exit Requirements for the USA

Entry and exit requirements are determined by U.S. authorities and can change. Always verify the latest information with U.S. embassies or consulates before traveling.

Passport Requirements

Proof of Canadian citizenship is required for entry into the U.S. For other nationalities, passport requirements vary; always check specific regulations.

Air Travel Passport Requirements

For air travel to the United States, including transit, Canadian citizens must present:

A valid passport (valid for the duration of stay).
Or a valid NEXUS card (at designated airports’ self-serve kiosks).

This applies to all Canadian citizens, including children.

Land and Water Travel Passport Requirements

Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), for land or water entry, Canadians aged 16+ must present:

A valid passport.
A Trusted Traveler Program card (e.g., NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry).
An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EIC) from participating provinces/territories.
A Secure Certificate of Indian Status.

These documents must be valid for the duration of your stay.

For Canadian citizens aged 15 and under entering by land or water, acceptable documents include:

A passport.
An original or copy of a birth certificate.
An original Canadian citizenship certificate.

Visas

Canadian visitors typically can stay up to 6 months without a visa. Declare your intended stay duration upon entry.

In most cases, Canadians don’t need visas for tourism, business, or transit from Canada, but exceptions exist. Check the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada website for “Canadians Requiring Visas”.

Canadian Permanent Residents

Canadian permanent residents may require a non-immigrant visa to enter the U.S. Obtain this visa from U.S. authorities before travel and carry a valid passport from your country of citizenship.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Citizens of VWP countries can enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain ESTA pre-travel authorization.

U.S. Permanent Residents

Canadian permanent residents of the U.S. must present a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card for entry.

First Nations and Native Americans Born in Canada

Members of Canada’s First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada have specific entry rights for employment, study, retirement, investment, or immigration.

Working in the United States

Most Canadian business travelers can apply for admission at a U.S. port of entry without a visa, but specific business categories require documentation. For planned U.S. employment, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for requirements.

Studying in the United States

Canadian citizens do not need visas for study or student exchange programs but must register with SEVIS, the U.S. student tracking system, and present registration forms at each entry.

Length of Stay and Extensions

For stays exceeding 6 months, apply for an extension at a USCIS office within the U.S. before your authorized stay expires. U.S. immigration regulations are strictly enforced. Overstaying can lead to detention or deportation.

While there’s no fixed waiting period to re-enter after an authorized stay, CBP officers may scrutinize frequent or lengthy stays to ensure you are a temporary visitor, not a U.S. resident.

Biometrics at Entry

Non-U.S. citizens generally provide biometrics (digital fingerprints, photo) upon entry. Most Canadians are exempt, except those requiring visas, waivers, or I-94 forms. Random screenings of exempt Canadians may occur. Address wrongful information collection with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Electronic Device Searches at the Border

U.S. border agents can search electronic devices (phones, computers, tablets) upon entry without needing a reason. They can request passwords. Refusal may lead to device seizure, travel delays, or denied entry (for non-U.S. citizens). Put devices in airplane mode to prevent accidental remote file downloads.

Preclearance in Canada

U.S. preclearance facilities in Canadian airports allow U.S. entry clearance before departure. U.S. preclearance officers conduct interviews and luggage inspections and can refuse U.S. entry. False statements to preclearance officers are offenses under Canada’s Preclearance Act. You are subject to Canadian law in preclearance areas and can withdraw your U.S. entry request unless an officer suspects false statements or obstruction, in which case detention under Canadian law is possible.

Criminal Record and Entry

A criminal record, regardless of severity or age, can lead to U.S. entry denial. Canadian pardons are not recognized by U.S. law. Apply for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility at a U.S. embassy/consulate or land border if ineligible. U.S. ports of entry are computerized with access to criminal records. Past entries without issue do not guarantee future entry, especially if a criminal record or prior denial is on file. Attempting entry without a waiver can result in detention and a permanent U.S. entry ban.

Cannabis and U.S. Entry

Past cannabis use or involvement with the cannabis industry can lead to U.S. entry denial, as cannabis remains illegal under U.S. federal law, even if legal in some states. Crossing the U.S. border with any amount of cannabis is illegal and can result in prosecution, fines, and jail time.

Boating in U.S. Waters

Operators of small pleasure vessels arriving in the U.S. from foreign ports must report to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for face-to-face inspection at designated locations. Exceptions may apply under programs like Nexus Marine.

Cruises from the USA

A valid Canadian passport is required for cruises from the U.S., as some destinations on cruise itineraries require passports for entry, and a passport is needed for U.S. re-entry. Cruise lines may retain passports for administrative purposes and U.S. immigration clearance; obtain a receipt if this occurs, ensure passport retrieval at cruise end, and carry a passport photocopy.

Pets and Entry

Pets must appear healthy at U.S. ports of entry and may be subject to examination, testing (at owner’s expense), or entry denial if health concerns are present. Additional requirements may include import permits, health/export certificates, and proof of vaccination (e.g., rabies). Quarantine may be required.

Children and Travel

Canadian citizens under 19 traveling with school or organized groups under adult supervision require written parental/guardian consent.

Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

Check health advisories for potential yellow fever vaccine entry requirements.

Image alt text: Entry and exit icon for USA travel warnings, highlighting passport, visa, and border crossing considerations.

Health in the USA

The USA boasts excellent healthcare, but costs are high. Travel health insurance is essential.

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Consult travel health advisories for up-to-date information on health risks.

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, and seasonal flu. Consult provincial/territorial immunization information.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

Discuss pre-travel vaccines and medications with a healthcare provider or travel health clinic 6 weeks before your trip.

Yellow Fever

Risk: No yellow fever risk in the USA.
Entry Requirement: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is not required for entry.
Recommendation: Vaccination not recommended for travel to the USA.

Measles

Measles is highly contagious. Ensure you are fully protected against measles before international travel.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a risk in all destinations. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers, especially those potentially exposed to blood or bodily fluids. Practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles, and ensure safe tattooing/piercing practices.

Influenza

Get a flu shot annually, ideally 2 weeks before travel. Flu seasons vary by hemisphere; the flu exists year-round in tropics. Practice hand hygiene and wear masks if symptomatic.

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a global concern. Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and recommended boosters before travel. Vaccination is highly effective against severe illness. Check destination-specific COVID-19 entry/exit requirements.

Rabies

Rabies may be present in U.S. wildlife, including bats. Wash wounds immediately and seek medical attention if bitten or scratched by an animal. Rabies vaccination may be recommended for travelers working directly with wildlife.

Safe Food and Water Precautions

Prevent illness from unsafe food or water by:

Eating only safely prepared food (boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it).
Avoiding water in eyes, mouth, nose when swimming in freshwater.
Not swallowing water when bathing, showering, or swimming in pools/hot tubs.

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention

Protect against insect-borne diseases by:

Using approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
Wearing light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
Wearing socks and closed-toe shoes.
Sleeping under mosquito netting if outdoors or in unenclosed spaces.
Performing tick checks after outdoor activities.

Zika Virus

Zika virus is a risk in some U.S. areas. Primarily mosquito-borne, it can also be sexually transmitted and cause birth defects. Check CDC for up-to-date Zika risk areas in the U.S. Prevent mosquito bites at all times and use condoms or avoid sex, especially if pregnant.

Dengue Fever

Dengue risk is sporadic in the USA. Protect against mosquito bites, especially during daytime, sunrise, and sunset. No vaccine or medication exists for dengue.

Animal Precautions

Avoid contact with animals to reduce risk of zoonotic diseases like rabies and avian influenza. Avoid stray animals, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Ensure meat is well-cooked. Supervise children closely around animals.

Avian Influenza

Human avian influenza cases have been reported in the USA, but risk to most travelers is low. Avoid contact with birds (wild, farm, backyard, alive or dead) and surfaces contaminated with bird droppings. Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly. Higher-risk travelers include those visiting live animal markets, poultry farms, working with poultry or wild birds/mammals. Seasonal flu shots are recommended to reduce co-infection risk.

Person-to-Person Infections

Reduce respiratory infection risk by:

Staying home and limiting contact if sick.
Wearing well-fitting masks in crowded indoor settings.
Frequent handwashing or sanitizer use.
Covering coughs and sneezes.

Reduce STI, HIV, and mpox risk by:

Getting mpox vaccine if eligible.
Limiting sexual partners.
Using condoms and dental dams.

Medical Services and Facilities

Healthcare is excellent but expensive. Emergency care is provided regardless of ability to pay, but all services are billed. Travel health insurance is crucial for foreign visitors.

Medication Regulations

Import of some prescription drugs into the U.S. is restricted or prohibited. Some over-the-counter Canadian medications are prescription-only in the U.S. Bring sufficient medication, with a physician’s note explaining your condition, if applicable.

Traveler Responsibility

Travel decisions and personal safety are the traveler’s sole responsibility. Medical services may differ from those in your home country. Pack a travel health kit, especially for travel outside major cities.

Image alt text: Health icon representing USA travel warnings, emphasizing vaccinations, health precautions, and travel insurance.

Laws and Culture in the USA

Abide by local laws. Laws vary significantly by state. Consult state websites before arrival.

Penalties and Transfer of Offenders

Serious law violations can result in jail sentences or, in some states, the death penalty. Canadian citizenship offers no special protection. U.S. jail sentences are served in U.S. prisons unless a transfer to a Canadian prison is approved by both countries under a treaty.

Drug Laws and Cannabis

Penalties for illegal drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, with lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Cannabis Legalities

Despite cannabis legality in some U.S. states, it remains federally illegal. Transporting cannabis across the Canada-U.S. border is illegal, even to states where cannabis is legal, and can lead to prosecution, fines, and jail time.

Prescription Medication Regulations

Personal medication may be subject to U.S. drug importation laws. Generally, a 90-day supply is allowed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has discretion over medication entry. When carrying prescription medication:

Take only the necessary quantity plus one week’s extra.
Keep medication in original packaging with dispensary labels showing your name, drug name, dosage, and DIN.
Carry a duplicate prescription with generic and trade names.
Have a physician’s note for your condition and syringe necessity, if applicable.

2SLGBTQI+ Persons

Some states have laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Check state and local laws relevant to sexual orientation and gender identity.

Dual Citizenship Considerations

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the U.S. Consular services for dual U.S.-Canadian citizens in the U.S. may be limited. Different entry/exit requirements may apply.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and the U.S. If your child is wrongfully taken to or held in the U.S., act quickly, contact your province/territory’s Central Authority, consult lawyers in both countries, and report to the nearest Canadian government office or Global Affairs Canada. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene in private legal or judicial matters.

Expedited Removal at Border

U.S. Customs and Border Protection can bar non-citizens for five years for presenting false documents or misrepresentation. Lying to customs officials is a serious offense. No formal appeal process exists for expedited removal, but supervisory review requests can be made to the USCIS district director.

Imports and Exports Regulations

Contact the specific U.S. Customs and Border Protection office at your planned Canada/U.S. border crossing for the latest information on import/export allowances and restrictions, which change frequently. Declare all items at entry.

Travel to Cuba from the USA

U.S. sanctions restrict tourist travel between the U.S. and Cuba. Travel to Cuba from the U.S. may be possible under specific authorized categories.

Driving Regulations

A valid Canadian driver’s license is accepted in the U.S. Traffic laws vary by state.

Automobile Insurance Requirements

Many states have mandatory auto insurance requirements and proof-of-insurance laws. State motor vehicle departments provide specific details. For driving to Mexico from the U.S., liability and additional auto insurance may be needed.

Hitchhiking Dangers

Never cross the border with or as a hitchhiker. You could be implicated in illegal activities. Be cautious about who and what you carry in your vehicle, as drivers can be responsible for passengers’ actions and belongings.

Currency and Money

The U.S. currency is the U.S. dollar (USD). Canadian currency and Canadian bank personal checks are not widely accepted. Most banking requires a U.S. bank account. No legal limit exists on money taken into or out of the U.S., but declaring amounts over US$10,000 (cash, checks, money orders, traveler’s checks, etc.) to U.S. Customs and Border Protection is mandatory. Failure to declare can result in civil and criminal penalties, including currency seizure.

Image alt text: Laws and culture icon for USA travel warnings, representing legal considerations, cultural awareness, and local regulations.

Natural Disasters and Climate Risks in the USA

Natural disasters can occur anytime. Climate change is increasing the frequency of extreme weather events. Monitor local media for updates.

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change affects the U.S., increasing extreme weather events that may disrupt travel. Monitor local media for latest information.

Hurricane Season

Hurricanes occur:

May to November in the eastern Pacific (Hawaii, Guam).
June to November in the Atlantic, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico.

Hurricanes pose serious safety risks and can disrupt essential services. During hurricane season:

Be aware of serious safety risks.
Be prepared to alter travel plans on short notice.
Stay informed on weather forecasts.
Carry airline/tour operator emergency contacts.
Follow local authority advice.

Flooding and Landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure. Exercise caution around rivers. Stay informed of weather forecasts and follow local authority instructions, including evacuations.

Earthquakes

Earthquake risk is present in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Washington State. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures in earthquake-prone areas.

Heat and Humidity

Heat and humidity are most intense June to September, especially in the South and Southwest. Be aware of dehydration and heatstroke symptoms, which can be fatal.

Bush and Forest Fires

Bush and forest fires are common, particularly in summer months, across much of the U.S. Wildfires are most likely during low rainfall and high temperatures. Air quality near fires can be poor due to smoke. In case of major fires:

Stay away from affected areas, especially if you have respiratory issues.
Follow emergency services’ instructions, including evacuations.
Monitor local media for updates.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes are a risk across much of the U.S., especially in central, Midwest, and southern states. Tornadoes can occur with little warning. Monitor local news and weather reports and follow local authority instructions.

Volcanoes

Active volcanoes exist in the U.S. Volcanic eruptions can disrupt air travel and worsen air quality, especially for those with respiratory issues. Monitor local media, follow authorities’ advice and evacuation orders, and be ready to change travel plans or evacuate quickly.

Tsunamis

Hawaii is tsunami-prone. Tsunamis can occur minutes after nearby earthquakes, and risk can persist for hours. If staying on the coast, understand local tsunami evacuation plans.

Image alt text: Natural disasters icon representing travel warnings to USA, highlighting risks like hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires.

By staying informed about these travel warnings and taking appropriate precautions, you can enhance your safety and security while traveling in the USA. Always consult official sources for the most up-to-date information before and during your trip.