Traveling to the United States is exciting, as the country tops many travelers’ bucket lists and is one of the most popular international travel destinations in the world.
But, the big question on everyone’s mind is, “Is the United States safe?”
This in-depth guide to safety in the United States will answer that and explain how to stay safe in the U.S. by sharing safety tips, advice on if, where, and what to worry about, and ways to keep you informed and prepared for your journey.
By following some common-sense safety rules, knowing the crime statistics, and being prepared for nature, you can safely and confidently have a great trip to the United States in 2025.
Is It Safe to Travel to the United States
Overall, the United States is a safe country to visit. Millions of people from around the world visit here each year and encounter no issues.
The emergency services are top-notch and responsive, so you’ll be supported should you need it. That’s all you can ask as a traveler.
Safety is different everywhere. A huge metropolis like New York City will have a very different “safety profile” than a small town in Ohio or even different neighborhoods within the same city.
And while no place is ever 100% safe, by doing some preliminary research you can better plan your trip so that you don’t end up in a neighborhood that will make you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Unlike a lot of countries, the U.S. is big and diverse so the atmosphere can vary across the country. In some places, you’ll find plenty of people and activity; in others, it’s just space and silence.
But whether you’re venturing out or hanging out in the city or the countryside, it’s always a good idea to know a little bit about the area’s safety. Stay informed. Be smart.
And you’ll travel comfortably no matter where in the United States you go.
Crime and Personal Safety
When you travel to the United States, it’s important to be prepared for the types of crime you might face. Petty theft is common, and in certain areas, things like scams and violent crime are also prevalent.
That said, crime is not something that happens often and it can be easily prevented by taking basic measures.
Cities tend to have higher crime rates than country towns, which can leave things quieter and more laid back.
In a city, it’s important to stay vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t flash your valuables (like money or electronics) in busy areas.
Staying safe is easy. Always keep your belongings secure and never trust strangers who offer something that looks too good to be true.
Stick to well-lit and populated streets and, of course, always trust your gut: if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to bail. Follow these, and you’ll have no worries in the U.S.
Transportation and Road Safety
Driving in the United States can be a lot of fun and a little scary. The basics are simple: drive on the right side of the road, and do not ever pass school buses.
Renting a car is a snap, but you need a valid driver’s license and some kind of insurance. There are lots of interstate highways in the U.S. for fun road trip, just don’t forget to wear your seat belt!
Using public transportation is often the best way to navigate a city. Most have underground metro systems, buses, and various ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft.
While typically safe, it’s always wise to remain vigilant of your surroundings and valuables. Apps that assist in mapping out your travels help significantly while exploring a city.
For travelers, safety issues can vary by transportation method. If you’re in a car, don’t use your phone. If you’re on the metro, watch your bag. Download maps to your phone before you go so you can use them even without Wi-Fi.
However you travel, take precautions and follow health and safety guidelines and you’ll be just fine.
Natural Disasters and Weather-Related Concerns
If you’re traveling in the U.S., natural disasters are something you need to be mindful of. It’s a big and diverse country, and each region has its own unique weather.
If you’re in the South, hurricanes are a huge issue, particularly from June to November. These giant storms have high winds and lots of rain, so make sure to always be checking the weather.
In the west, wildfires are problematic in the dry summer season. If unchecked, these can spread, impacting air quality and restricting road access.
In the northern states, wintertime snowstorms can produce dangerous conditions and make it difficult to get around.
The Midwest sees a lot of tornadoes, particularly in the spring and summer. These twisters are capable of doing serious damage, so be sure to understand the warning signs.
To keep an eye on the weather, you can also download apps such as NOAA Weather or The Weather Channel. These will have current weather updates and localized alerts. Research the weather of your destination a few days in advance.
Make sure you are aware of what you can expect during that time of year so that you can properly pack rain gear, sunscreen, a heavy coat, or whatever may be needed to make your trip more comfortable and safer.
By preparing and staying informed you won’t have to worry about any weather ruining your trip.
Gun Violence and Mass Shootings
When people picture the United States, they usually think of the prevalence of gun violence in the country. The truth is, unless you’re in a specific environment, you’re unlikely to experience it.
The media hypes gun violence, making it seem like an everyday occurrence when, in fact, it’s not. Millions of travelers come here without incident. Just take everything with a grain of salt.
While public gatherings and crowded places can be overwhelming, for the most part, they are safe. Security is always tight on these occasions and things are tightly monitored.
Most places are fine and free from incidents. It’s the same as in any city on the planet. Just be vigilant. If in doubt, move.
In the very unlikely event of an emergency (such as a nearby shooter), here are some basic safety steps to keep in mind. Remember the slogan “Run, Hide, Fight.”
If confronted by an active shooter: Run. Escape if you can. Hide. Get out of view if escape is not possible. Fight. A last resort, striking the shooter.
Such incidents are incredibly rare, but it never hurts to be prepared. You’ll feel more confident about your safety as you explore the United States.
Health and Medical Safety
Getting medical care in the U.S. is unique. So, while healthcare is among the best in the world, it’s expensive. That means travel insurance is a must. It’ll put your mind at ease, knowing you’re covered if something goes wrong.
Before you go any farther, ensure you have your routine vaccinations. While the US doesn’t require any additional shots, it’s good to get them anyways.
It’s also handy to keep a little hygiene kit in your bag with hand sanitizer and wipes. This ensures you don’t get run down while traveling the world.
No one enjoys falling ill on vacation, so it’s wise to plan ahead. Locate health facilities around your destination.
If you take any medications, or have any allergies, make a list. It can be very useful should you need to see a doctor or need to visit a pharmacy.
Cultural Awareness and Local Laws
When you visit the United States, it’s vital to understand the culture, and here are a few things to keep in mind. People in the United States smile a lot and sincerely wish you a good day, and they love to talk, so engage the locals in conversation.
And remember: if Americans take a small step back from the conversation, they’re just trying to give themselves some space. Tipping is customary, so plan to tip 15-20% when you dine out.
The U.S. has 50 states, and each state is like a mini-country with its own set of rules, regulations, and laws that can vary wildly among the states.
For example, one state may have legal marijuana while the other does not or the legal drinking age can be 21 everywhere.
“No jaywalking” signs are also extremely common, so don’t get caught crossing in the middle of the street or you might get a ticket. A little knowledge goes a long way to avoiding any surprises!
Always be respectful of local cultures– It’s important to be respectful of the places you are visiting. Ask yourself: what are some things that I will need to know before I go so that I don’t accidentally offend a local.
How to Stay Safe While Traveling in the U.S.
Staying safe while traveling in the country is, for the most part, just a matter of being responsible and prepared. First and foremost, be sure to always let a friend or family member know where you’ll be.
You can give them your itinerary, and an itinerary of how to contact you. If you have a room safe, lock up anything valuable, like your passport or any extra money.
Don’t skip travel insurance. It will make sure you are covered if something goes wrong while you are traveling, such as an illness or lost bag.
Make sure you have the most important emergency phone numbers in both your phone and on paper: 911 (or the local emergency number) in the event of an accident, your nation’s embassy phone number, and the toll-free number for your travel insurance provider.
Technology can vastly improve the quality and safety of your trip. Be sure to use technology like offline maps and language translation apps if you’re out of your comfort zone with the local language.
You can use safety apps such bSafe or Red Panic Button that can help. They are designed to be used in emergency situations and can give you easy access to the information you need by the tap of a finger.
FAQ
1. Is it safe to travel to the U.S. in 2025?
Yes, it is safe to visit the U.S. in 2025. However, there are always good and bad places in any country. Research areas in advance, and remain aware of your surroundings.
2. What’s the best way to stay connected with family while traveling in the U.S.?
Share your itinerary with family and friends prior to travel. When you’re there, use data or Wi-Fi to connect via messaging apps and update them if plans change.
3. Are there cities that are safer for tourists in the U.S.?
Sure, places like Seattle, San Diego, and Boston are perfectly safe. They have wonderful things to do and people usually behave themselves.
4. What are some key emergency contact numbers to have on hand?
Always save 911 for emergencies and your home embassy’s phone number as well as your travel insurance hotline.
Conclusion
Traveling to the United States in 2025 is as safe as you’re prepared to make it. As with any other destination, safety can change in a pinch depending on where you are and what you’re doing there.
But stay vigilant, be informed, and you’re going to be prepared for whatever happens. So get ready to explore, carry these precautions with you, and confidently hit the road to see the best of the U.S.!