The United States offers incredible diversity from coast to coast, featuring world-class cities, stunning national parks, vibrant cultural scenes, and iconic landmarks. Experience everything from New York's skyline to California's beaches, from the Grand Canyon to tropical Hawaii.
The United States is generally safe for tourists in most areas, though safety varies significantly by neighborhood within cities. Major tourist areas are well-patrolled and secure, but travelers should exercise normal urban precautions — staying aware of surroundings, securing valuables, and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise normal precautions. Use common sense in major cities — be aware in tourist-heavy areas prone to pickpocketing. Some urban neighborhoods have higher crime rates; research specific neighborhoods before visiting.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Major tourist destinations including national parks, historic cities, and resort areas are safe. Research specific neighborhoods in large cities; some areas have elevated crime rates.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Be aware of your surroundings in major cities, especially at night
Keep valuables secured and be cautious in tourist-heavy areas
Traffic laws are strictly enforced; always wear seatbelts
Weather emergencies vary by region (hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires)
Healthcare is expensive; purchase comprehensive travel insurance before your trip
Tipping is customary and expected: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars
Register with your home country embassy or at travel.state.gov before arrival
Emergency number is 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies nationwide
Carry photo ID at all times as bars and liquor stores strictly verify age (drinking age is 21)
Prescription medications and some over-the-counter drugs have different regulations; carry a doctor letter
Jaywalking laws are enforced in many cities; use designated crosswalks
Gun laws vary dramatically by state; familiarize yourself with local regulations
Tap water is safe to drink in virtually all US cities unless otherwise posted
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Three-card Monte and Street Games
Shell games and three-card Monte are rigged gambling games run by organized crews on busy streets in NYC, Chicago, and other major cities. Staged 'winners' in the crowd are paid actors.
How to avoid: Never gamble with strangers on the street; all street card games are rigged
Fake CD/Merchandise Push
Street vendors aggressively offer CDs, merchandise, or 'free' items in tourist areas (NYC Times Square, Hollywood Walk of Fame) then demand payment when you accept.
How to avoid: Decline firmly — say 'No thank you' and keep walking; do not accept anything offered for free on the street
Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed 'gypsy' taxis at airports and tourist areas quote inflated flat rates or take longer routes. Official taxis in major cities have meters.
How to avoid: Use Uber or Lyft apps; at airports, use official taxi stands; always agree on price before getting in unlicensed vehicles
Timeshare Presentations
Orlando, Las Vegas, and beach resort areas offer 'free' attraction tickets or meals in exchange for attending a 90-minute timeshare presentation that often runs 3+ hours using high-pressure sales tactics.
How to avoid: Never attend a timeshare presentation; the 'free gifts' aren't worth the time and pressure
Online Rental Scams
Fraudulent Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace rental listings in popular cities use photos of real properties with fake addresses to collect deposits. Very common in NYC and SF rental markets.
How to avoid: Only use Airbnb or VRBO with buyer protection; never wire money or pay via Zelle to rent an apartment without verified identity
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No vaccinations required for entry. Routine vaccinations recommended (MMR, DTP, flu). COVID-19 vaccine requirements ended in 2023 but recommended.
- Water
- Safe to drink in all major cities and most of the country. Some small rural areas may have warnings; check locally.
- Food
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Generally safe for solo travelers throughout the country. Stick to well-lit populated areas at night, especially in large cities. Use Uber or Lyft rather than walking alone late at night. Share your location with someone at home. National parks are safe but carry sufficient water, tell someone your hiking plan, and stay on marked trails.
Female travellers
Generally safe with reasonable precautions. Well-lit tourist areas and most neighborhoods are safe at night. Use ride apps rather than walking alone after midnight. Be aware of drinks at bars — use the buddy system and never leave drinks unattended. The #MeToo movement has raised awareness of harassment; report incidents to 911.
Families
Excellent family destination with world-class infrastructure for families. Child car seat laws strictly enforced in rental cars. Theme parks, national parks, and most tourist attractions are extremely family-friendly with safety infrastructure. Keep children close in crowded areas like Times Square. US tap water is safe for children everywhere.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Legal protections for LGBTQ+ travelers vary significantly by state — same-sex marriage is federally recognized. Major cities (NYC, LA, SF, Chicago, Miami, Seattle, Portland) are extremely LGBTQ+ friendly with vibrant Pride events. More conservative rural areas and some Southern states have a less welcoming social climate, though violence is rare. Check current state laws regarding trans rights before traveling with trans family members.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 911
- Medical
- 911
- Embassy
- Tourist Police