US issues worldwide travel advisory — here's what you should know

In light of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza, the U.S. Department of State issued a worldwide travel advisory for U.S. citizens, encouraging enhanced caution abroad.

"Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution," the agency said Friday.

In telling Americans to "exercise increased caution," the agency advised travelers to remain alert in tourist areas, in addition to staying abreast of government alerts via their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. STEP aims to keep American citizens safe by providing up-to-date, relevant security updates from the nearest U.S. consulate.

More specifically, Americans who fall into the below circumstances should enroll in STEP:

• Those traveling to an area that's politically unstable or prone to violence
• Those with an extended trip (several weeks or months) where you have limited Wi-Fi access
• Those traveling for a major event, summit or conference (like the World Cup) that might become the target of protests or attacks
• Minority groups traveling to an area where you might be targeted as an outsider

Some group trips or programs, such as study abroad, may also require participants to enroll.

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In the event of rapidly deteriorating situations — such as the conflict in the Middle East, a coup or a natural disaster — STEP can connect travelers with evacuation efforts or provide important safety information to help you protect yourself.

Since 2008, the State Department has issued 23 worldwide caution alerts, per Skift. It most recently did so in August 2022 following the death of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, per CNN.

The agency routinely grants global travel advisories of varying degrees for Americans overseas, ranging in severity from Level 1 to Level 4, reflective of a country's ongoing safety concerns. More specifically, the agency looks at eight risk-specific indicators: crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, natural disasters, time-limited events, kidnapping/hostage-taking and other potential risks not covered by previous risk indicators.

"In each Travel Advisory, we provide an overall Travel Advisory level and clearly explain the risk level for each indicator and describe the safety and security concerns," a State Department official told TPG.

Level 1 is the safest, and Level 4 is the most dangerous, indicating corresponding levels of caution:

• Level 1: Exercise normal precautions.
• Level 2: Exercise increased caution.
• Level 3: Reconsider travel.
• Level 4: Do not travel.

Travel insurance policies will likely not cover travel to Level 4 destinations, but double-check with your specific travel insurance company regarding your specific policy.

Related reading:

• Is it safe to travel to Israel, Egypt and the Middle East?
• Confused by State Department travel advisories? Here's what they mean
• How the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program could help you on your next trip abroad
• The difference between CDC and State Department travel warnings
• The best travel insurance policies and providers