If you're a traveler heading out on a trip soon after a tragedy, disaster, or outbreak occurs, you may feel understandably concerned about your upcoming plans. The most important thing to remember is that you have every right to feel concerned, to revisit your trip itinerary and make any changes that make you feel the most comfortable.
Below, we list safety tips in a checklist to consider whenever you're going out of town -- but they're especially helpful in precarious times.
1. Do you need to get in touch with your airline?
In the wake of international crises including the terror attacks on Paris and Brussels and the outbreak of the Zika virus in Latin America and the Caribbean, many airlines waived re-booking fees and offered free refunds for certain travelers with upcoming flights to affected regions. Contact your airline's customer service department to learn of any programs put in place to alleviate concerns.
2. Have you checked the most recent CDC warnings, State Department travel alerts, or the local government websites of the areas you're planning to visit?
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention posts travel notices for Americans visiting regions with potential health risks. Similarly, terror attacks have caused temporary closures of affected transit hubs, and the State Department has been known to reissue specific travel alerts in the wake of such events.
Following the attacks on Paris, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide travel alert cautioning travelers of "increased terror threats" around the globe. The language was specific in that the alert did not encourage Americans to cancel trips abroad -- the State Department only issues such travel warnings when officials want Americans to reconsider traveling to a particular place. Travel alerts are for short-term events the State Department thinks you should be aware of as you plan.
As the New York Times wrote, "don't be afraid, be aware." Travelers abroad should remain extra vigilant in crowded, touristy areas, avoid large groups, and to be extra mindful in cultural forums like theaters and national landmarks.
3. Would you feel better making changes to your daily itinerary?
Perhaps you suddenly feel uneasy about visiting that popular tourist attraction or area expected to be covered in crowds during peak travel season. You may feel more comfortable tweaking your itinerary in certain ways to alleviate any feelings of anxiety. Feel free to make those changes -- it's your trip.
4. Have you notified family and friends of your most current travel plans and given them copies of your itinerary and travel documents?
While it may be nice to hit the road, disconnect and not look back for a few weeks, it's safest to ensure that at least one family member or friend has a copy of your itinerary and travel documents, especially your passport, in case of an emergency.
5. Do you have the phone and address of the local U.S. embassy or consulate where you're traveling?
It's always a good idea to have this information on hand when abroad, in case you're caught in an emergency -- whether that's losing your passport or a major international crisis. You can find the contact information for U.S. embassies around the globe at USEmbassy.gov.
6. Do you need to alter your packing list?
The CDC recommends those traveling to areas affected by the Zika virus bring specific kinds of bug repellents, long sleeves and long pants, for example. You might also want to bring some over-the-counter medicines from the U.S. while traveling abroad, just in case.
7. Did you check in with yourself and travel companions?
Some research suggests an estimated 40 percent of people experience some level of anxiety when they fly, and it's natural to experience higher levels of anxiety about travel after tragic events. Take time to understand your feelings and those of your trip companions, and seek professional help if necessary. Most importantly, give yourself the space to recenter and re-plan.
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