With the start of the 2014 Winter Olympic games, the United States Department of Homeland Security has issued a warning to all traveling to Russia.  According to the National Terrorism Advisory System website, the system was designed to “more effectively communicate information about terrorist threats by providing timely, detailed information to the public, government agencies, first responders, airports and other transportation hubs, and the private sector”.  As of February 2014, no alerts have been issued but there have been warnings such as the one issued for those traveling to Sochi, Russia.

Here are some tips for traveling safely from the U.S. Passports and International Travel:

• Have an up-to-date passport
• Make sure to have the contact information for the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you are going
• Carry a minimum number of valuables on you
• Use covered luggage tags to avoid casual observation of your identity and nationality
• Avoid packing IDs, tickets and other vital documents in backpacks or other locations you won’t be able to see at all times
• Make two photocopies of all your travel documents in case of emergency or if your documents are lost or stolen
• Before you leave, notify your bank, credit card company, or other financial institutions that you are going overseas
• Avoid carrying a large amount of cash
• Learn about the local laws prior to reaching your destination
• Check to see if any vaccinations are required prior to entering your destination
• Learn what medical services your health insurance will cover overseas
• If you are taking any medication, carry your medications in their original labeled containers and get a letter from your physician in case you are questioned about your carry-on medication

Tags: Homeland Security travel