Essential USA Travel Safety Guide: Navigating the United States with Confidence

Staying Safe and Secure During Your USA Travel

The United States is generally a safe country for travel, but like any destination, it’s important to be informed and prepared. This guide provides essential safety and security information to help you navigate your Usa Travel with confidence.

Understanding Risk Levels Across the USA

United States: Exercise normal security precautions throughout the country.

While much of the USA enjoys a low-risk environment, certain areas and situations require heightened awareness.

Border Areas with Mexico: Increased Vigilance

Criminal activity related to drug trafficking is more prevalent in states bordering Mexico, including:

California
Arizona
New Mexico
Texas

If driving across the U.S.-Mexico border:

Maintain a high level of vigilance.
Utilize only official, recognized border crossings.
Avoid nighttime travel in border regions.

Crime Awareness for USA Travelers

Petty Crime: Protecting Your Valuables

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, especially in busy urban centers and popular tourist spots.

Never leave bags or valuables unattended in parked vehicles, especially rental cars, even in locked trunks.
Keep your belongings, including passports and travel documents, secure and out of sight at all times.

Violent Crime: Staying Aware in Urban Areas

Violent crime in major cities is more likely in poorer neighborhoods, particularly during evening and nighttime hours. Intoxication can often be a contributing factor. While gang and organized crime groups are often involved, incidents can also be perpetrated by individuals. Although tourists are rarely targeted:

Be constantly aware of your surroundings.
Check local crime statistics for neighborhoods you plan to visit, especially in the evening.
If confronted by robbers, remain calm and do not resist.

Crime Data Explorer – Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) provides detailed crime statistics for different areas.

Gun Violence: Understanding the Risks

Gun ownership rates are high in the USA, and open carry of firearms is legal in many states for US citizens.

Mass shooting incidents, often resulting in casualties, do occur. While tourists are rarely directly involved, the risk of being caught in a “wrong place, wrong time” scenario exists.

Familiarize yourself with active shooter response protocols.

Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide – Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency offers guidance on how to react in such situations.

Home Break-ins: Securing Vacation Rentals

Canadians with vacation homes in the USA have experienced break-ins and burglaries.

Ensure all windows and doors are securely locked at night and when you are away from your property.

Common Criminal Tactics: Recognizing and Avoiding Ploys

Be alert to robbery tactics targeting tourists.

Some criminals target travelers leaving airports or tourist destinations. They may signal to indicate a problem with your vehicle, waiting for you to pull over to steal valuables. They might also throw objects at your windshield to force you to stop.

If you suspect such a ploy:

Do not stop on the side of the road.
Activate your hazard lights and slowly drive to a safe, populated area like a gas station or police station.

Demonstrations and Civil Unrest

Demonstrations can occur and may become violent without warning, causing disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
Follow instructions from local authorities.
Monitor local news for updates on any ongoing demonstrations.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events) provides general safety advice for large events.

Fraud and Financial Security

Credit card and ATM fraud, including debit card cloning, is a risk. Exercise caution when using your cards:

Keep your card in sight when handled by others.
Use ATMs in well-lit, public locations, or inside banks or businesses.
Avoid card readers that appear unusual or tampered with.
Shield the keypad when entering your PIN.
Regularly check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Overseas fraud offers general advice on fraud prevention while traveling.

Terrorism Threats in the USA

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

Government buildings, including schools
Places of worship
Airports and transportation hubs
Public areas like tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping centers, markets, and hotels

Maintain heightened awareness in public places.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operates a public alert system to communicate information about terrorist threats.

National Terrorism Advisory System – U.S. Department of Homeland Security provides current threat information.

Safety for Hiking and Mountaineering Adventures

For hiking, backpacking, or skiing trips:

Never engage in these activities alone. Always hire a certified guide from a reputable company.
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation.
Get detailed information on trails or slopes before heading out, and stay on marked paths.
Ensure you are physically fit for the planned activities.
Be properly equipped and informed about weather conditions and potential hazards.
Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including expected return time.
Learn to recognize symptoms of altitude sickness, which can be serious.

Air Travel Safety in the USA

We do not assess the safety standards of foreign domestic airlines.

Information about foreign domestic airlines provides general information on air travel safety.

Entry and Exit Requirements for USA Travel

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. The Canadian government cannot intervene if you do not meet your destination’s requirements.

Information on this page is obtained from U.S. authorities but is subject to change.

Always verify information with Foreign Representatives in Canada for the most up-to-date requirements.

Passport Requirements for USA Entry

Proof of Canadian citizenship is mandatory for entry into the USA. Several documents are accepted.

Air Travel: Passport is Key

Canadians flying to the USA must present one of the following:

A valid passport, valid for the entire duration of your stay.
A valid NEXUS card, for use at designated airport kiosks.

This requirement applies to all Canadian citizens, including children, even for transit through the USA.

Land and Water Travel: WHTI Compliant Documents

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

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

The chosen WHTI-compliant document must be valid for your entire 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

USA Visas: Who Needs One?

Canadian visitors typically can stay in the USA for up to 6 months visa-free. Declare your intended stay duration upon entry.

Generally, Canadian citizens do not need visas for visitor, business, or transit purposes when entering from Canada, but exceptions exist.

Canadians Requiring Visas – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada provides details on visa requirements.

Canadian Permanent Residents: Visa Requirements

Canadian permanent residents may require a non-immigrant visa to enter the USA.

Obtain any necessary visas from U.S. authorities before traveling. You will also need a valid passport from your country of citizenship.

Cross U.S. Borders – U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers information for permanent residents.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Citizens of VWP countries can enter the USA for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain pre-travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

You must also carry proof of Canadian Permanent Resident Status for re-entry into Canada.

U.S. Permanent Residents: Green Card Requirement

Canadians who are U.S. permanent residents must present a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) upon entry.

International travel as a U.S. Permanent Resident – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services details travel for green card holders.

First Nations and Native Americans: Special Entry Provisions

Members of Canada’s First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada can freely enter the USA for employment, study, retirement, investment, or immigration purposes.

Working in the United States

Most Canadian business travelers can apply for admission at a U.S. port of entry without a visa. However, specific business categories require particular documentation to prove eligibility.

If you plan to work in the USA, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Foreign Representatives in Canada can provide contact information for embassies and consulates.

Studying in the United States

Canadian citizens do not need visas for study or student exchange programs in the USA. However, registration with SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is required. Students must present their SEVIS registration form to CBP officers upon each entry.

Length of Stay Regulations

To stay longer than 6 months, apply for an extension from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your authorized stay expires. Immigration officers may require proof that you are a temporary visitor.

The U.S. government strictly enforces immigration rules. Overstaying your authorized period can lead to detention or deportation.

There is no set waiting period to re-enter after an authorized stay, but CBP officers may scrutinize frequent or lengthy stays to ensure you are genuinely a temporary visitor and not attempting to reside in the USA.

Extend your stay – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services provides information on extensions.

Biometric Data Collection

Non-U.S. citizens are required to provide biometrics (digital fingerprints and photo) upon entry.

Most Canadian citizens are exempt, except those who:

Require a visa or waiver of ineligibility.
Need an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.

Random screenings of exempt Canadians may occur. If you believe your information was wrongfully collected, contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Electronic Device Inspections at the Border

U.S. border agents can search electronic devices (phones, computers, tablets) upon entry without needing a reason and can request passwords.

Refusal may lead to device seizure, travel delays, or denial of entry for non-U.S. citizens.

Before crossing, put devices in airplane mode to prevent unintended downloads.

Inspection of Electronic Devices – U.S. Customs and Border Protection outlines device inspection policies.

Preclearance in Canada

U.S. preclearance facilities at Canadian airports allow for US entry clearance before departure.

When using preclearance, you are subject to U.S. entry requirements and will be interviewed by a U.S. officer who can inspect luggage and deny entry.

It is illegal under Canadian law to make false statements to a preclearance officer. Within preclearance areas, Canadian law applies, including the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

You can withdraw your US entry request and leave preclearance unless an officer suspects false statements or obstruction, in which case you may be detained for Canadian law violations.

Preclearance Locations – U.S. Customs and Border Protection lists preclearance locations.

Criminal Record and USA Entry

A criminal record, regardless of severity or age, can lead to denial of entry. Even a Canadian pardon is not recognized under U.S. law for entry purposes.

If ineligible, you can apply for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility from U.S. Customs and Border Protection via a U.S. embassy/consulate or at land borders.

U.S. ports of entry are computerized with access to criminal databases. Past entries without issue do not guarantee future entry if a criminal record is found. Attempting entry without a waiver after denial can result in detention and a permanent U.S. entry ban.

Cannabis and Border Crossing

Although cannabis is legal in some U.S. states, it remains federally illegal. Crossing the Canada-U.S. border with any amount of cannabis is illegal.

Attempting to cross with cannabis can result in prosecution, fines, and potential jail time, even if your destination state has legalized it.

Boating in U.S. Waters

Operators of pleasure vessels arriving from foreign ports must report to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for inspection at a designated reporting location immediately upon arrival.

Exceptions may apply, such as under the Nexus Marine program.

Pleasure Boat Reporting Requirements – U.S. Customs and Border Protection provides details for boaters.

Cruises and Passport Requirements

A valid Canadian passport is mandatory for cruises departing from the USA. Some visited countries will require a passport for entry, and it’s also essential for re-entering the USA after the cruise.

Cruise ship authorities may hold passports for administrative purposes and U.S. immigration clearance.

If your passport is held:

Obtain a receipt.
Ensure you get your passport back at the end of the cruise.
Keep a photocopy of your passport with you.

Traveling with Pets

Pets must appear healthy upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry. Signs of poor health may lead to examination/testing at your expense or denial of entry.

Additional requirements for pets may include:

Import permits
Export or health certificates
Proof of vaccinations (e.g., rabies)

Quarantine requirements may apply to some animals.

Children Traveling in Groups

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

Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

Check the health section for potential yellow fever vaccine requirements.

Health Considerations for USA Travel

Travel Health Notices

This section provides health risk information and advice for your USA trip. Following this advice can help minimize your risk of illness. This is not an exhaustive list of all potential risks.

Consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice. Even if your departure is soon, an appointment is still beneficial.

Routine Vaccinations for USA Travel

Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before any travel, including to the USA.

This includes vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information provides access to immunization schedules and information across Canada.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications for USA Travel

Depending on your USA travel plans, you may be at risk for diseases preventable by vaccines or medications. Discuss your itinerary with a travel health professional to determine appropriate vaccinations and preventative measures.

The information below highlights key considerations and requirements.

Yellow Fever – Country Entry Requirements

Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease.

Vaccination may be required for entry to certain countries or recommended for personal protection.

Risk in USA: No risk of yellow fever in the USA.

Country Entry Requirement*: No proof of yellow fever vaccination is needed for entry to the USA.

Recommendation: Yellow fever vaccination is not recommended for USA travel.

* Country entry requirements may not always reflect your personal risk. Contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of your destination to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever provides detailed information about yellow fever.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada lists designated vaccination centers.

Rabies

Rabies is present in some wildlife in the USA, including bats. It is a fatal disease transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals.

If bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention.

Discuss rabies vaccination with your healthcare provider before travel, especially if you will be working directly with wildlife.

Measles

Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through direct contact and airborne droplets.

Anyone not protected against measles is at risk of infection while traveling internationally.

Ensure you are fully vaccinated against measles before traveling to the USA.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a risk in all destinations, including the USA. It is a viral liver disease transmitted via blood and bodily fluids.

Travelers potentially exposed to blood or bodily fluids (sexual contact, medical treatment, shared needles, tattoos, acupuncture, occupational exposure) are at higher risk.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travelers. Prevent hepatitis B infection through safe sex practices, sterile equipment, and regulated tattoo/piercing settings.

Influenza (Flu)

Annual influenza vaccination is the best protection against seasonal flu. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks prior to USA travel.

Flu occurs worldwide.

Northern Hemisphere flu season: November to April.
Southern Hemisphere flu season: April to October.
Tropics: Flu activity year-round.

Flu vaccines for one hemisphere may offer limited protection in the other.

The flu virus spreads through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces. Practice frequent handwashing and wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms.

COVID-19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an ongoing global concern.

Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and any recommended booster doses before USA travel. Vaccines are highly effective against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. While vaccination reduces risk, infection is still possible. Unvaccinated individuals face higher risks of infection and severe illness.

Verify USA’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements before travel. Consult your healthcare provider to ensure adequate COVID-19 protection.

Safe Food and Water Practices in the USA

Consuming unsafe food or water or swimming in contaminated water can cause illness. Take precautions:

“Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” – only eat safely prepared food.
Avoid getting water in eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (streams, lakes, canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding. Water may appear clean but can still be contaminated.
Avoid swallowing water when bathing, showering, swimming pools, or hot tubs.

Eat and drink safely abroad provides comprehensive food and water safety guidelines.

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention for USA Travel

Many diseases are transmitted through bites from infected ticks and insects (mosquitoes, fleas, flies). Learn about local insects, their activity periods, and the diseases they carry before your trip.

Protect yourself from bites by:

Using approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
Wearing light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing (nylon or polyester).
Wearing socks and closed-toe shoes.
Sleeping under mosquito netting if outdoors or in unenclosed accommodations.
Performing full body tick checks on yourself, children, gear, and pets after outdoor activities.

Insect bite and pest prevention and Personal insect repellents offer detailed guidance.

Zika Virus

Zika virus risk exists in some USA areas.

Zika spreads primarily through infected mosquito bites and can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Areas at Risk for Zika for current Zika risk information in the USA.

In Zika risk areas:

Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, especially if pregnant.

Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss Zika risks with their healthcare provider and may choose to postpone travel to risk areas.

Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy provides specific advice.

Dengue Fever

Dengue risk in the USA is sporadic. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral illness.

Dengue causes flu-like symptoms, and severe dengue can be fatal.
Dengue risk varies seasonally and annually, and by region and elevation.
Dengue-carrying mosquitoes bite primarily during daytime, especially around sunrise and sunset.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication to prevent dengue.

Animal Precautions for USA Travel

Some infections (rabies, avian influenza) can transmit from animals to humans. Certain activities increase animal contact risk:

Rural or forested area travel.
Camping, hiking, cave exploration.
Visiting live animal markets or places where animals are slaughtered for food (wet markets).

Reduce risk by avoiding contact with stray dogs, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid eating undercooked meat.

Supervise children closely as they are more likely to approach animals.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in the USA. Avian influenza is a viral infection easily spread among birds, and rarely to humans. Risk to most travelers is low.

Avoid contact with birds (wild, farm, backyard – alive or dead) and surfaces contaminated with bird droppings. Ensure poultry and egg dishes, including wild game, are thoroughly cooked.

Higher-risk travelers include those:

Visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms.
Working with poultry.
Hunting, handling, or butchering wild birds and mammals.
Working with wild birds or mammals for research, conservation, or rehabilitation.

Seasonal flu vaccination is recommended to protect against human influenza viruses. While it doesn’t prevent avian flu, it can reduce the risk of co-infection.

Person-to-Person Infections During USA Travel

Reduce the risk of respiratory infections (flu, COVID-19) by:

Staying in your accommodation and limiting contact if sick.
Wearing a well-fitting mask:
- If sick and needing to be around others.
- In crowded indoor settings (events, concerts, airports).
Washing hands frequently with soap and water (at least 20 seconds) or using hand sanitizer (min 60% alcohol).
Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, not hands.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events), Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures provide further guidance.

To lower the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox:

Get vaccinated against mpox if eligible.
Reduce the number of sexual partners.
Use condoms and dental dams during sexual activity.

Mpox vaccines, Sexual health and travel, and HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice offer more information.

Medical Services and Facilities in the USA

Healthcare in the USA is excellent and widely available. However, treatment costs are high.

Emergency care must be provided by all hospitals, regardless of payment ability. However, patients will be billed for all services. Travelers without travel health insurance will need to pay out-of-pocket for medical treatment.

Obtain travel insurance including medical evacuation and hospitalization coverage.

Health and safety outside Canada provides general travel health insurance advice.

Medications and Prescriptions for USA Travel

Import restrictions and prohibitions apply to certain prescription drugs in the USA.

Some over-the-counter medications in Canada require a prescription in the USA.

Bring sufficient medication for your trip.
Have a physician’s note explaining your condition, if applicable.

Important Health Reminder

Travel decisions and personal safety are your responsibility.

Be prepared and do not assume medical services will be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, particularly for travel outside major cities.

Laws and Culture in the USA

You are subject to local laws in the USA.

Learn what to do if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Laws vary significantly by state. Consult the website of your destination state before traveling.

Penalties and Transfer of Offenders

Serious law violations can result in jail sentences or, in some states, the death penalty. Canadian citizenship offers no immunity or special treatment.

Jail sentences are served in U.S. prisons unless a transfer to a Canadian prison is approved by both the USA and Canada under a treaty.

Drug Laws and Penalties

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

Drugs, alcohol and travel provides general information on drug laws abroad.

Cannabis and the Border

Despite cannabis legalization in some U.S. states, it remains illegal federally. Transporting cannabis across the Canada-U.S. border is illegal.

Do not attempt to cross the border with any cannabis, even to states where it is legal. You will face legal prosecution, fines, and potential jail time.

Prescription Medications and U.S. Law

Personal medication may be subject to U.S. drug importation laws.

Generally, a 90-day supply of personal medication is allowed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has discretion to permit or deny entry of Canadian-purchased medication.

When bringing prescription medication:

Carry only the quantity needed for your trip plus a week’s extra supply.
Pack medication in original packaging with dispensary labels showing your name, drug name, dosage, and DIN (drug identification number).
Keep a duplicate of your original prescription listing generic and trade names.
Have a physician’s note explaining your condition and need for syringes, if applicable.

Prohibited and restricted items – U.S. Customs and Border Protection lists restricted items.

2SLGBTQI+ Travelers

Some states have laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Research state and local laws relevant to your sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics offers advice for 2SLGBTQI+ travelers.

Dual Citizenship Considerations

The USA legally recognizes dual citizenship.

If you are a dual Canadian-U.S. citizen, Canadian consular services may be limited while in the USA. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is applicable between Canada and the USA. It assists parents in returning children wrongfully removed to or retained in treaty countries in violation of custody rights.

If your child has been taken to or is being held in the USA, and Hague Convention conditions are met, you can apply to a U.S. court for the child’s return.

If this situation arises:

Act quickly.
Contact the Central Authority in your province/territory for Hague Convention application information.
Consult lawyers in both Canada and the USA regarding legal options.
Report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or Global Affairs Canada’s Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit.

Canadian consular officials cannot intervene in private legal matters or foreign judicial affairs.

Expedited Removal from the USA

U.S. Customs and Border Protection can bar non-citizens from the USA for five years if they believe false documentation was presented or misrepresentation occurred. Lying to customs officials is a serious offense.

There is no formal appeal for expedited removal. However, supervisory review can be requested from the USCIS district director responsible for the port of entry.

Find a USCIS office – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office locator.

Imports and Exports Regulations

Contact the specific U.S. Customs and Border Protection office at your intended Canada/U.S. border crossing for the latest information on import/export allowances and restrictions, as these change frequently.

Declare all items at your point of entry.

Contact information for USCBP – U.S. Customs and Border Protection contact details.

Travel to Cuba from the USA

U.S. sanctions restrict travel between the USA and Cuba. Tourist travel is generally prohibited, but travel for other specific purposes may be permitted if certain requirements are met.

Cuba sanctions – U.S. Department of the Treasury provides details on Cuba travel restrictions.

Driving Regulations in the USA

A valid Canadian driver’s license is accepted for driving in the USA.

Traffic laws vary by state.

Automobile Insurance Requirements

Many states have mandatory auto insurance laws and require proof of insurance. Contact the relevant state’s motor vehicle department for specific details.

If driving to Mexico from the USA in your vehicle, you may need to purchase Mexican liability and additional auto insurance.

Hitchhiking Dangers

Never cross the border with hitchhikers or as a hitchhiker. Even if you are not carrying illegal items, a hitchhiker or driver might be, implicating you.

Be cautious about who and what you transport in your vehicle, as you could be held responsible for passengers’ actions and belongings, even without your knowledge.

Currency and Money Matters

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the currency.

Canadian currency and personal checks are not widely accepted. Most banking transactions require a U.S. bank account.

There is no limit on the amount of money you can legally bring into or out of the USA. However, you must declare to U.S. Customs and Border Protection if you are carrying more than US$10,000 (cash, checks, money orders, traveler’s checks, or other convertible assets) into or out of the USA, or if you expect to receive more than US$10,000 while in the USA.

Failure to declare can result in civil and criminal penalties, including currency seizure.

Natural Disasters and Climate in the USA

Natural disasters can occur at any time in the USA.

Plan Ahead for Disasters – U.S. Department of Homeland Security provides disaster preparedness resources.

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change is affecting the USA, leading to more frequent and extreme weather events that may disrupt travel plans. Monitor local news for updates.

Hurricane Season Awareness

Hurricanes are common:

Eastern Pacific Ocean (including Hawaii and Guam): May to November.
Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: June to November.

Hurricanes pose serious safety risks and can disrupt essential services.

If traveling to hurricane-prone regions during hurricane season:

Be aware of significant safety risks.
Be prepared to alter travel plans on short notice, including trip cancellation or shortening.
Stay informed about regional weather forecasts.
Carry emergency contact information for airlines and tour operators.
Follow advice and instructions from local authorities.

Flooding and Landslide Risks

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure.

Exercise caution near rivers.
Stay informed about weather forecasts.
Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders.

Earthquake Zones

Earthquakes are a risk in:

Alaska
California
Hawaii
Nevada
Oklahoma
Oregon
Washington State

If traveling to earthquake-prone areas, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

Heat and Humidity Concerns

Heat and humidity are most intense during June to September, especially in the South and Southwest.

Learn to recognize dehydration and heatstroke symptoms, both of which can be fatal.

Bush and Forest Fire Season

Bush and forest fires are common across much of the USA, particularly during summer.

Wildfires are most frequent during dry, hot periods but can occur year-round.

Air quality can worsen significantly near active fires due to smoke. In case of major fires:

Avoid affected areas, especially if you have respiratory issues.
Follow emergency services instructions, including evacuation orders.
Monitor local media for updates.

Tornado Alley

Tornadoes pose a risk across much of the USA, especially in central, mid-western, and southern states. Tornadoes can occur with little warning.

Monitor local news and weather reports.
Follow local authority instructions.

Volcanoes and Volcanic Activity

Active volcanoes exist in the USA.

Volcanic eruptions can cause air travel disruptions and poor air quality, especially for those with respiratory conditions.

Monitor local media for updates.
Follow local authority advice, including evacuation orders.
Be ready to change travel plans or evacuate quickly.

Tsunami Hazards

Hawaii is susceptible to tsunamis, which can occur minutes after a nearby earthquake. Tsunami risk can persist for hours after the initial tremor.

If staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with local tsunami evacuation plans.

Tsunami Evacuation Zones – Government of Hawaii provides tsunami evacuation zone information for Hawaii.