Is United States safe to visit? Advice, scams and health

For most visitors, the United States is safe. The main risks are petty theft, car break-ins, and scams near tourist attractions, not violent crime. Use common sense: keep valuables out of sight, lock your car, and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar urban areas. Check your government's travel advisory before you go, and get travel insurance — medical care is expensive and not free for visitors.

The table below summarizes the key safety considerations for a typical tourist. Specifics vary by city and region; always check local advice.

Violent crime is not a major concern for most tourists, but petty crime is. Car break-ins are common in tourist areas, especially if valuables are visible. Pickpocketing and bag snatching happen in crowded places like Times Square, public transit, and festivals. Keep your phone and wallet in front pockets, and don't leave bags unattended.

Common scams include fake tickets for shows or tours, 'free' bracelets or CDs that turn into demands for money, and taxi drivers who overcharge or take long routes. Use official ticket vendors, agree on the fare before getting in a taxi, and be wary of unsolicited offers. Charity petitions and 'lost' tourists asking for money are also frequent.

If you are a victim of a crime, call 911. For non-emergencies, visit a local police station. Report lost passports to your embassy or consulate.

The United States has no free public health care for visitors. A simple emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and ambulance rides are billed separately. Travel insurance is essential; it covers medical treatment, evacuation, and trip interruption. Check that your policy covers the activities you plan, such as hiking or skiing.

Pharmacies (drugstores) are common in cities and towns; you can buy over-the-counter medicines for minor issues. For prescriptions, bring enough for your trip, plus a copy of the prescription. Tap water is safe to drink in most places, but check local advisories, especially after storms or in rural areas.

Vaccinations are not required for entry, but routine vaccines should be up to date. If you have a chronic condition, carry a letter from your doctor and a list of your medications.

The US has a wide range of weather and natural hazards. Hurricanes affect the Gulf and Atlantic coasts from June to November; if you're in a coastal area, monitor forecasts and follow evacuation orders. Tornadoes are most common in the Midwest and South in spring and early summer; know the difference between a watch and a warning.

Wildfires occur in the West, especially in summer and fall; check air quality and fire alerts. Extreme heat can be dangerous in the Southwest and South, while cold snaps and blizzards affect the North and mountains. Always check the local forecast and pack accordingly.

Driving rules vary by state, but generally you drive on the right, and a valid home licence is accepted for short visits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended and required in some states. Watch for wildlife on rural roads, especially at dawn and dusk, and be prepared for aggressive drivers in cities.

Speed limits are posted in mph, not km/h. Seat belts are mandatory in most states, and using a phone while driving is restricted. In winter, mountain passes may require chains. If you're in an accident, call 911 and exchange insurance information.

Your government's travel advisory is the first place to check. The US State Department, UK Foreign Office, Canadian travel.gc.ca, Australian smartraveller, New Zealand safetravel, and Irish dfa.ie all publish country-specific advice. They may flag regional risks, such as crime in certain cities or natural hazards.

As of 2026, most advisories for the US are at the 'exercise normal precautions' level, with some regional warnings. Always read the latest update before you travel, and sign up for alerts from your embassy if available.

This page was last checked in September 2026. Key sources include official government travel advisories and the parent country facts. Always verify current conditions before you go.