International Travel Tips and Travel Security Measures

The World Trade Center bombings of September 11, 2001, made it clear that no one is invulnerable to terrorism, whether it be domestic terrorism or international. Terrorist groups are experts in manipulating people with fear and violence, and although it may seem as though people become victims almost at random, terrorists pick their targets carefully.

Who's Really at Risk

  • Terrorists target areas with little security or easy public access. They prefer targets who will be unable to employ self-defense.
  • Foreign and domestic terrorists identify targets in areas where crowds surrounding the targets will act as a diversion/distraction either before or after an attack.
  • International airports, large cities, major international events, resorts, and high-profile landmarks are high-risk areas.

International Travel Tips: Looking for Risks

Locals traveling alone in their city are as susceptible to kidnapping as any tourist visiting a foreign city for the first time. Domestic terrorism is a very real threat. The advantage to being at home is that you may be able to recognize abnormal behavior or unusual events, and take the necessary steps to avoid danger.
 
US citizens should contact the State Department before traveling. Terrorist groups around the world threaten the personal security of different people, and the State Departmentcan let you know who may be more at risk. If you must travel to a destination rife with domestic terrorism, it is vital that you educate yourself on what you may be facing.
 
Important questions to ask a government representative are:
  • Are women more at risk in this country?
  • Are children at risk of kidnapping?
  • Is there a danger of chemical warfare?
  • What do the terrorist groups in this country want?
  • What have these terrorist groups done in the past?
  • What is the police/security force in this country like? How quickly do they respond?
  • Who do I contact in case of an emergency?
  • What about my behavior and appearance should I change to be a less likely target?

So, how do you defend yourself from terrorism while traveling?

  • Familiarize yourself with where you're going and take the time to understand the local situation.
  • Avoid any known trouble spots.
  • Keep alert and watch the reactions of those around you, especially any locals, for signs that something maybe out of the ordinary. Remember, you may be in a country that has lived with domestic terrorism for years, so watching local behavior may save your life.

Tips for Dealing With Airport Security Procedures

Terrorist attacks have dictated a need for changes in many aspects of day-to-day life. Security has, of recent years, tightened significantly around airports, sporting events, and government buildings. This requires longer waits during travel and leisure time, which can lead to frustration and stress.

Rather than rail against extended delays and security precautions, it's best to just accept them as a necessary part of modern life.

The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) offers the following travel tips on terrorism awareness in airports, as well as what to expect from airport security.

  • Be alert and aware of the surrounding area. Terrorist attacks often occur with little or no warning.
  • Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behavior. Do not accept packages from strangers. Never leave luggage unattended.
  • Learn where the emergency exits and stairs are located. Consider how you'd evacuate the area in an emergency.
  • Notice your immediate surroundings. Be aware of heavy or breakable objects that could move, fall or break in an explosion.
  • Call the Department of Transportation's Travel Advisory Line at 1-800-221-0673 for travel advisories concerning security threats at your destination.
  • Arrive early. Security measures add to check-in times. Build in even more time if you're traveling with children, the elderly, or the disabled.
  • Do not leave your car unattended in front of the terminal. Your car may be towed.
  • Keep your photo identification handy. If you do not have a photo ID, make sure you have two pieces of identification, one of which is issued by a government authority. Minors are not required to have identification. Failure to have proper identification may result in additional security scrutiny. Some airlines may prohibit you from boarding without proper ID.
  • Be patient with airline representatives. For international flights, airlines are required to collect your full name and ask you for a contact name and phone number.

Guidelines for Luggage and Packages

  • Report unattended packages and bags to airport security.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about who packed your bags and whether you might have left them unattended at any time. Think carefully and answer honestly: Criminals and terrorist organizations often use unwitting passengers to carry bombs or other dangerous items on board aircraft, either by tricking passengers into carrying packages or by simply slipping items into unwatched bags. If you have any doubts, say so.
  • Do not joke about having bombs, firearms, or a chemical weapon in your possession. Airport security will react when they hear these words. Penalties can be severe, and include the possibility of time in prison and/or fines.
  • Both carry-on and checked bags are subject to being hand-searched, especially when airline security personnel cannot determine by X-ray the contents of a package.
  • Leave gifts unwrapped until after you arrive at your destination. Airline security personnel will open gifts if an x-ray is unable to identify the contents.
  • Leave firearms at home, and do not pack fireworks, flammable materials, household cleaners, or pressurized containers. Violators of hazardous materials regulations are subject to civil penalties of up to $27,500 per violation.
  • Once you get to your destination, know in advance where your embassy is and what contact information you may need in an emergency. The State Department provides contact information for the US embassies in each nation. Carry multiple copies of the embassy numbers on you, as well as a map detailing the location of the nearest embassy.

Two if by Sea: Ships and Terrorism

Though piracy is still a threat on the open sea, most terrorists do not look to the sea for targets. Ferries and military craft have been targets while at port, but cruise liners remain relatively safe. The large passenger manifest and crew compliments make these vessels hard to control. Tight port security, lack of available training, and the absence of multiple escape routes limit terrorist activity at sea.

Crossing the Line: Travel Tips for Riding the Railways

Train or subway stations can be targets of terrorist acts. Like airports, the large crowds at stations allow terrorists anonymity. Terrorist attacks usually occur at stations rather than on trains, often in the form of a chemical weapon or bombs. As in airports, travelers should report any odd behavior or out of the ordinary event to the proper authorities.
 
The keen observation of one traveler in Tokyo found a suspicious bag in a restroom and reported it. The bag contained a chemical weapon and was removed. Months before, travelers at a Tokyo subway became the victims of a chemical weapon that released sarin gas. Paris' metro has also suffered bombings, including nail bombs designed to send nails in all directions at high speeds. The best defenses remain keen observation, not taking unnecessary risks, and paying close attention to all security instructions and warnings.