Smart Traveler Check-in Program Helps US Travelers Stay Safe Overseas
When traveling overseas, it is important to stay safe in unfamiliar territory, especially if you are traveling alone . The U.S. Department of State has a program that allows you to log your trip, stay on top of travel alerts, and keep in touch with friends and family during an emergency.
The Smart Traveler Registration Program (STEP) is free. You record your trip with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, and upon registration, you will receive travel notifications and security conditions for the destination country. This service will make it easier for the embassy to contact you in the event of an emergency, even if it is a family emergency. The program also helps family members find you and connect with you. According to the State Department :
The information you provide to STEP will help consular staff at US embassies and consulates around the world contact you and your loved ones during an emergency, including when your family or friends in the United States are unable to reach you with important news. …
Sure, you can just find this information yourself and send the trip details to your family yourself , but this tool makes it easy to do it in one place and receive automatic alerts and updates. You can sign up for one trip or sign up as a user if you travel frequently. See for yourself using the link below.
Smart Traveler Registration Program | U.S. Department of State