Five Ways to Stay Safe Over Spring Break

Each year, thousands of Americans are arrested or become victims of a crime when traveling abroad. Spring break for college students is no exception: though most trips are incident-free, being prepared of the hazards of traveling and what you'll need to stay safe while abroad and during your return home will go a long way. Here are the top ten ways to stay safe during spring break.

Stay Safe Over Spring Break Tip #1: Learn about the country you plan to visit. Take time before your departure to learn about the country's people and culture, and of any problems the country is experiencing that could affect your travel plans. Also, learn any applicable laws. For example, a drug that is legal in one country may not be legal in another. This has contributed to over 2,500 American citizens being arrested abroad each year, many on narcotics or alcohol-related charges. The legal age for alcohol consumption differs with each country. Also, once you leave the United States you are not subject to U.S. laws and constitutional rights. Be aware of the laws of the land you plan to visit to ensure a safe and legal spring break vacation.

Stay Safe Over Spring Break Tip #2: Register your trip. Travel registration is a free service provided by the U.S. government to all American citizens traveling to or living in a foreign country. Registering your trip allows you to record information about your upcoming trip so that the U.S. Department of State can assist you in case of an emergency or if natural disaster, terrorism or civil unrest occurs during your foreign trip. When you register your trip, you make it easier for the U.S. embassy or consulate to find you in case of an emergency. During those emergencies, the embassy or consulate can get you in contact with family, provide loans in case of financial difficulty, and provide the names of local attorneys if needed. You can register your trip for free at https://travelregistration.state.gov. In addition to registering your trip, leave copies of your travel plans and itinerary with your family so that they are aware of your whereabouts in case of an emergency.