American Church Group - Colorado

Protecting your mission trip travelers

Five tips for traveling abroad safely 

If you are planning your first volunteer or ministry trip abroad, it is important to know a few guidelines for traveling safely. There are some common pitfalls new travelers often struggle with that can be prevented with a little preparation. Here are 5 easy steps you can take to prepare yourself for traveling abroad safely.  

Five steps to take: 

1. Get Travel Insurance 

No Matter where your mission takes you, travel insurance is essential. Faith Ventures has affordable travel insurance options that come with single or multi-trip plans for foreign and domestic mission travel as well as access to 24-hour emergency services while you travel. 

2. Limit the Amount of Cash you Carry 

Cash makes you an easy target; avoid carrying large sums of money with you or flashing cash during a purchase. Use credit or debit cards whenever possible (be sure to notify the companies you will be traveling overseas). Save on ATM fees by taking out cash at purchase time from supermarkets and gas stations. 

3. Educate Yourself about your Destination Country 

Get information on travel alerts and country-specific warnings, laws, and customs before you leave. You may need to change your dress, abide by curfews, or adhere to media restrictions. If you break the law while traveling, your U.S. passport cannot help you avoid arrest, and the U.S. embassy cannot get you out of jail. 

4. Protect your Passport 

Keep your passport in your front pocket or in a travel pouch inside your clothes. You can find hidden money and passport holders like these to keep your valuables out of sight. If your hotel asks to hold your passport during your stay, make sure you request documentation. Always keep a photocopy of your passport ID page and visa.  

5. Keep Loved Ones Aware of your Location 

If you are traveling to a high-risk area or if you are traveling solo, it is important to keep friends or family back home aware of your itinerary. You can do this by sending them a list of your locations and addresses along with how to get in contact with you. Or, even better, get a location-sharing app like one of these to allow a trusted friend/family member to keep tabs on your location.  

To learn more about the mission travel protection that Faith Ventures can provide, click here.