Looking to make a big move for your golden years? It’s not just about the location itself: Long-term affordability should also be taken into consideration. Living costs (housing, groceries, transportation, and utilities), taxes, and Social Security payments all factor in as part of a destination’s desirability. The Motley Fool, an investment advice company, took this into account when curating a list of each state’s affordability in terms of overall costs for retirees. Find out which states cracked the top 10 most affordable states for retirement in 2026.

10. New Mexico

New Mexico has plenty of appeal for retirees, including warm and dry weather and a low cost of living, with home prices and rents that are well below the national average. The state also recently lowered taxes on retirement income, including Social Security, which means retirees who choose New Mexico can save more in the long term. On top of that, the state’s beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and access to the outdoors promise to make your golden years more enjoyable.

9. Alabama

With approximately 18% of the state’s population being over 65, Alabama has become increasingly popular for retirees. Advantages for the senior set include a mild climate, a low cost of living, and low taxes. Most notably, state residents benefit from affordable housing costs, which are roughly 50% lower than the national average. The state income tax rate (ranging from 2% to 5%) is also lower than that of the rest of the country, and it excludes income from pensions, making it highly desirable for anyone on a fixed income.

8. Arkansas

Much of Arkansas’ appeal to retirees is due to its low cost of living. Historically, Arkansas has offered residents more affordable housing when compared to the rest of the nation, and despite a recent uptick in housing costs, real estate prices still fall considerably below the national average. The Council for Community and Economic Research also found that the cities of Jonesboro, Fayetteville, Conway, and Little Rock spent less money on food than the national average, a factor that can help retirees stretch their dollars.

7. West Virginia

Over 20% of West Virginia’s population is over the age of 65. In addition to the beautiful mountain scenery, the state’s tax breaks are popular with those on a fixed income. West Virginia is currently at the end of a three-year period of phasing out tax on Social Security income, and taxpayers will see a full exemption beginning in 2027. Although health care can be difficult to come by in the more remote regions of the state, cities like Morgantown provide lower expenses and health care accessibility for aging residents.

6. Mississippi

The Magnolia State offers affordable housing and land paired with a low cost of living, helping residents to live on less. Mississippi residents also receive considerable tax breaks, as the state does not tax Social Security income, pension benefits, and qualified IRA or 401(k) withdrawals. Although many retirees enjoy the state’s slower pace of life in more rural areas, college towns like Starkville are also sought-after due to health care access, recreational opportunities, and a sense of community.

5. Oklahoma

Oklahoma offers retirees a peaceful environment, loads of outdoor activities, and a community-oriented culture. When you pair this with affordability and a lower cost of living, it’s easy to see why Oklahoma is such an appealing destination for potential retirees. Tax breaks include an income tax exemption of up to $10,000 for retirees over 65 and no taxes on Social Security income. The best health care access in the state can be found in the bigger cities of Oklahoma City and Tulsa, while smaller towns like Norman and Lawton are ideal for retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle. 

4. Missouri

The Show-Me State’s cost of living is 8% lower than the national average, with housing in particular 18% more affordable than in the rest of the country. Depending on their lifestyle preferences, retirees can take their pick between urban accessibility in cities like Kansas City and St. Louis, scenic beauty in Lake of the Ozarks, or lively culture and educational opportunities in the college town of Columbia.

3. South Dakota

If you’re on a fixed income, South Dakota has many advantages, including a lower cost of living and no income tax. Not only is housing 12% lower than the national average, but utilities are also 15% less than what a typical American spends. And although health care costs are slightly above the national average, South Dakota maintains a robust health care system across the state, making it a solid choice for the senior set.

2. Tennessee

Tennessee is quickly becoming a go-to state for retirees. The Volunteer State offers residents several desirable tax breaks, including no income tax, no inheritance tax, and the ability to freeze the taxable income on their home. Residents also benefit from easy access to rural beauty, with the Great Smoky Mountains as their playground. Other advantages include a mild climate, a strong sense of community, and excellent culture, especially in cities like Nashville and Memphis.

1. Kansas

According to the Motley Fool, the most affordable state for retirees in 2026 is Kansas. The average cost of living in the Sunflower State is 13.5% lower than that of the rest of the country. The state’s affordable housing is beneficial for anyone on a fixed income, while the average Social Security payment covers almost half of average living expenses for seniors. Health care costs are also lower in Kansas, making the state a great choice for retirees looking to stretch their budgets.

Retirement opens the door to something many people spend years dreaming about: the freedom to travel on your own terms. According to the not-for-profit educational travel company Road Scholar, more seniors are choosing to travel solo than ever before, heading to popular destinations like Italy, Greece, Egypt, and Japan. And while traveling alone can come with concerns about safety, loneliness, and logistics, with the right preparation it can also be one of the most rewarding ways to see the world. Check out these six helpful tips to get you started.

Start Small

If this is your first time adventuring solo, consider starting small with a weekend getaway to a familiar location. National parks, for example, are the most popular destination for retirees, according to Road Scholar. At U.S. parks, seniors (ages 62 and up) can save on park entrance fees with Senior Annual and Senior Lifetime passes, as well as free lifetime passes for U.S. military veterans and anyone with a permanent disability. 

The National Park Service’s Accessibility Task Force has improved access to national parks through paved walkways, wheelchair-accessible shuttles, and ADA-friendly trails. A few of the most ADA-friendly national parks include Acadia National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park.

According to Road Scholar, coastal cities — like Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia — are the second-most-popular destination choice among retirees. This type of trip is a great way to ease into solo travel with a low-stress itinerary that offers plenty of built-in relaxation.

Research Travel Warnings Before You Go

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) recommends that seniors travel and explore new places, as it can be great for mental health, but also offers several safety tips to help things go smoothly. Following public health guidance is important, so be sure to look up your destination on the CDC Travelers’ Health site, where travel health notices are posted.

Travelers heading abroad should also check the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory list for up-to-date information on guidance and warnings for their destination. While you’re there, join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that lets you receive security updates, emergency alerts, and embassy notifications at your destination.

Book Group Tours

One potential concern for solo travelers is loneliness, but group tours address this by pairing you with like-minded travelers to share in the experience. Trafalgar, a global guided vacation operator offering escorted coach tours across six continents, is one popular option. The company notes that the average age of solo travelers who book with them has increased from 55 in 2016 to 62 in 2021.

Similarly, Intrepid Travel is no stranger to solo travel. The small-group adventure travel company, which offers tours in more than 100 countries, says that more than 50% of its bookings are from solo travelers. A local guide leads the way through immersive cultural experiences, with enough downtime to accommodate any activity level.

For solo travelers who don’t want a full group tour itinerary but are simply looking for dining companions while traveling, try using an app to find local dining experiences. Eatwith offers cooking classes, food tours, and dining experiences in local hosts’ homes in more than 130 countries. Similarly, group dining experiences, tours, fitness classes, and cultural experiences can be booked through Airbnb, allowing you to make new friends during your travels.

Find a Cruise Line With Solo Staterooms

Cruises are a great way to travel solo since they require minimal logistical planning. Plus, there are plenty of social activities for those wanting to meet new people on board, including organized solo meetups and community-style dining. 

Some travelers may think cruising solo isn’t an option due to single supplement fees, which require a single traveler to pay the standard double-occupancy rate. Certain cruise lines offer a slight discount on the double-occupancy rate, but there are also cruise lines that have dedicated solo cabins where you don’t have to pay a single supplement fee.

One such example is Norwegian Cruise Line. From luxurious balcony rooms to budget-friendly studios, all of its ships are equipped to accommodate solo travelers, with hundreds of itinerary options to choose from. On certain Royal Caribbean cruise ships, single travelers can select a studio room and avoid the single supplement fee. Similarly, Holland America offers single ocean-view staterooms on several of its ships.

Employ a Few Smart Strategies To Stay Safe

Falls are the leading cause of injury among adults 65 and older, and getting injured in a foreign country may pose additional challenges with insurance and travel home. Because of this, the NCOA recommends prioritizing a hotel that meets your mobility needs, considering the fact that historical and rural hotels may lack up-to-date accessibility features. 

Older adults are also often targets of theft and fraud. Use a hotel safe for your wallet, cash, jewelry, passport, and other important documents. While you’re out exploring, take the bare minimum with you, as pickpockets are common in touristy cities. Choose pants and jackets with interior zippers or consider investing in an anti-theft cross-body bag (featuring a dual zipper lock) or a hidden money belt.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may not be the most exciting tip on this list, but it could be the most important. Seniors traveling solo should consider purchasing comprehensive coverage before their trip because it can alleviate financial losses such as flight cancellations and lost baggage. And more importantly, these plans cover health issues while traveling abroad.

Typically, U.S. health insurance policies offer limited coverage while traveling abroad, and some offer none at all. For example, Medicare and Medicaid generally do not cover incidents during international travel, leaving many seniors unprotected during their trips.

There are a few key considerations for seniors shopping for travel insurance, including coverage for preexisting conditions, medical emergencies, and evacuations. Navigating foreign health care can be difficult, especially alone, so having a travel insurance policy in place will make things easier. If you’re unsure where to begin, the top three travel insurance companies for seniors in 2026, according to U.S. News and World Report, are Seven Corners, IMG Travel Insurance, and WorldTrips.

Upon landing in a foreign country, there are a few things you’ll probably do before leaving the airport: connect your mobile phone to the local cellular network or Wi-Fi, figure out the most effective route to the hotel, and let family and friends know you’ve arrived safely. There’s one other thing that many travelers do shortly after arrival in a new country, but it’s something they should avoid if they can. Let’s look at this all-too-common travel pitfall when it comes to currency exchange, and what to do instead.

A Currency Conundrum

It’s typically a smart idea to carry local banknotes while traveling abroad. Cash comes in handy in those off-the-beaten-path areas where credit cards may not be accepted. But where should you  exchange your U.S. dollars for local currency? After arriving at a foreign airport, you may notice a plethora of airport kiosks offering currency exchanges. However, most of these kiosks are trying to take advantage of unwitting travelers with their exorbitant rates and hidden fees.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) advises travelers to avoid falling victim to this mishap. The reason airport currency exchange kiosks charge such high fees and steep exchange rates is the fact that travelers don’t have many other options upon arrival. In fact, according to Nerdwallet, it’s not uncommon for airport booths to charge as much as 17% more than the going exchange rate — and that’s before they add any fees on top of the transaction.

Global fintech company Wise warns about a few other sneaky tactics to watch out for. For example, many airport exchange booths may claim they’re taking a 0% commission, which seems like a great deal at first. But the fact that they’re charging zero commission doesn’t mean they won’t substantially mark up the rate to start. To keep up on fair rates, you can download the free Wise app or check the Wise website, which shows the current exchange rate at fair market value. The best way to avoid overpaying is to exchange currency by other means.

The Best Ways To Exchange Currency

So, where do travelers find more consumer-friendly currency exchange options? One of the most reliable methods for acquiring foreign currency is to order it through your bank or credit union prior to the trip.

Your bank will exchange U.S. dollars directly from your account, but it may take a few days for the foreign currency to arrive at the bank and be available for pickup, so it’s a good idea to start the process at least a week before your trip. It’s also worth noting that banks charge a small percentage of the transaction or a commission fee of around 1% to 3%, but this is far below the fees you will typically find at airport kiosks.

What if you don’t have time to visit your local bank before your trip, though? If you land in another country without any cash, it’s better to withdraw money directly from a local bank’s ATM than to visit an airport kiosk. While you may be subject to a withdrawal fee and a foreign transaction fee, those fees are typically more affordable than airport exchange booths.

According to Wise, you can expect to pay around a 1% to 3% transaction fee, plus a 1% to 3% conversion charge. It’s also a good idea to let your bank know you’ll be traveling abroad before using your ATM card, or they could flag your card for potential fraud and prevent you from withdrawing money.

Use Local Currency When Paying by Credit Card

With more and more countries offering cashless payment options, you may choose to forgo cash and avoid the hassle. If you prefer to pay by credit card, however, there’s a simple rule you should always follow to avoid predatory exchange rates.

When you tap your card on the payment terminal, you’ll typically be asked by the merchant if you want to pay with U.S. dollars or local currency. Always choose local currency. The reason for this is simple: If you pay using local currency, the exchange rate is set by your bank, which will be closer to fair market value.

If you opt to pay in U.S. dollars for your transaction, you’re subject to an exchange rate set by the store or restaurant. This rate is typically higher than the rate set by your bank, since there’s less oversight. Always inform the merchant you’d prefer to pay in local currency, and your bank account will thank you.

If you ever have the pleasure of flying in or out of Kansai International Airport in Japan, don’t worry about your luggage getting left behind. The airport has never lost a single bag, which is doubly impressive given that it first opened in 1994 and served more than 34 million passengers in 2025 alone. Located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, near such major cities as Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, Kansai Airport (known among locals as Kankū) is also home to the longest terminal in the world at 1.16 miles. But how has it kept a perfect luggage record for more than three decades? Let’s find out.

Day In, Day Out

While it’s no doubt an impressive feat, there doesn’t seem to be any grand secret to Kansai’s perfect baggage delivery record, at least according to airport representatives. “It would be the result of the daily efforts and careful work of everyone involved, including airlines and handling companies,” airport spokesperson Momoka Wakabayashi told NPR in an email. “We apologize if this would be not a specific answer.” (No apologies necessary, in our opinion.) 

Speaking to CNN, another representative offered a similar statement. “We don’t feel like we have been doing something special,” public-relations officer Kenji Takanishi said. “We have been working as we normally do. We only do our work on a daily basis and we are recognized for it. We are certainly happy to receive the [recognition]. I think our staff, especially those working on the ground, feel more pleased.” In other words, everyone there is just really good at their job.

But perhaps there’s another element at play: A culture of hospitality, respect, and attention to detail is deep-rooted in Japan. As Tsuyoshi Habuta, who oversees baggage operations for one of the handling companies at Kansai, explained to NPR, he feels a strong commitment to passengers’ well-being, and this extends to their luggage, which he considers “precious.” 

“We are working hard to study and learn more each day so that we can make the passenger happy. I really think this is the spirit of Japanese hospitality,” he said. His team also places an emphasis on small details that can subtly improve the passenger experience — for instance, placing each suitcase with the handle facing outward, so that passengers can more easily grab their bag.

And the Award Goes To…

Unsurprisingly, Kansai International Airport (KIX) has previously won Skytrax’s award for Best Baggage Delivery. Somewhat surprisingly, it hasn’t won the prize every year. The most recent edition went to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. (Kansai International came in third for 2026.) 

While KIX no doubt continues to excel in the baggage department, the ranking takes into account not only completion factor but also passenger satisfaction on the speed, efficiency, and reliability of luggage handling from plane to carousel — and Taoyuan simply had the edge when it came to the overall picture. 

What if You’re Not Flying to Japan?

Here in the U.S., for comparison, over 2 million bags are lost every year. That’s across all airports and airlines, but no single U.S. airport managed to crack the top 10 worldwide for baggage delivery in the Skytrax World Airport Awards. While the overall chances of your bag getting lost are still slim — U.S. airlines handled over 470 million bags in 2025 — there are still ways to protect yourself as a traveler.

We always recommend tossing an Apple AirTag or a similar Bluetooth tracking device in your checked luggage before your trip. The device’s location is tracked using a technology called ultra-wideband, which is communicated to any nearby Apple devices and relayed to the larger Apple network. And now, if your bag goes missing, you can share your AirTag’s location with airlines directly, via Apple’s new “Share Item Location” — which could help you track down your missing bag faster than the airline.

Hotels have a long and honorable history — the Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan, founded in 705 CE, is the world’s oldest operating hotel, welcoming guests to its soothing hot springs for more than 1,300 years. Hotel chains took off later, in the 20th century, launching familiar names like Hilton, Ritz-Carlton, and the Four Seasons. But some luxury properties keep a lower profile, operating discreetly while catering to a wealthy clientele who prize privacy and over-the-top amenities. Here are some of our favorite “secret” hotel brands, for the ultimate in high-end hospitality.

Airelles

This uber-luxe hospitality group began in 1988 in Courchevel, France — one of the swankiest ski resorts in the world — and just expanded to its first location outside of France with the opening of the Airelles Palladio in Venice earlier this year. Marie Antoinette would be right at home at the Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle — the only hotel actually located on the grounds of Versailles. You’ll be hearing a lot more about the brand soon, as the hit HBO series The White Lotus is currently filming its fourth season on the French Riviera at Airelles Saint-Tropez, Chateau de la Messardiere.

Cheval Blanc

This exclusive hotel chain is owned by French luxury brand LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), which operates only six locations, all with a strong focus on food and design and the highest attention to detail and service. The 36-room Cheval Blanc Courchevel debuted in the French Alps in 2006, followed by properties in St. Bart’s, Saint-Tropez, the Seychelles, the Maldives, and Paris.

Capella

This small group of hotels in the Asia-Pacific region focuses on quirky design, buzzy bars and restaurants, and a “living room” at each property that encourages guests to relax and socialize with one another. Founded by Horst Schulze, the former head of Ritz-Carlton, in 2001, Capella has snapped up Travel + Leisure’s No. 1 Best Hotel Brand in the World for the past three years. The brand’s first European foray is set to open in 2027, transforming a 12th-century building in Florence, Italy. Capella also owns Patina Hotels and Resorts, which currently operates in the Maldives and Osaka, Japan, but is expanding to Tianjin and Sanya in China.

Oetker

The legendary Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in the South of France has played host to royalty and to celebrities including Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. It’s now owned by the Oetker Hotel Group, which operates luxury properties including the Eden Rock St. Barths, Le Bristol Paris, and L’Apogée Courchevel. Fans of the Netflix smash Bridgerton won’t want to miss the Bridgerton-themed high tea at the Lanesborough, Oetker’s London crown jewel.

Bvlgari

Italian luxury house Bvlgari is best known for jewels and high-end perfumes, but its hotels and resorts shine with the same brilliance and exude an unmistakable air of affluence. The bespoke hospitality group is expanding rapidly, with properties in Bodrum, Turkey; Miami, Florida; Ranfushi, the Maldives; Abu Dhabi, UAE; and Cave Cay, the Bahamas, currently in the pipeline.

Belmond

The name “Orient Express” is synonymous with romance and luxury. Created in 1976, luxury hospitality brand Belmond Ltd. operates legendary trains such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, alongside a portfolio of magnificent hotels including Venice’s Hotel Cipriani, Rio’s Copacabana Palace, and two exquisite safari lodges in Botswana.

Vacations are a treasured summertime tradition, and when the weather heats up, many Americans hit the road. But where to? Travel company TripAdvisor tracked travel searches to determine where people are interested in vacationing this summer, and the results are in. If you’re looking for inspiration — or already planning to visit a popular spot — check out TripAdvisor’s top 10 travel picks in the U.S. for summer 2026 — and all the highlights at each destination.

10. Nashville, Tennessee

Summer travelers are singing Music City’s praises, and for good reason: The capital of Tennessee has a lot to brag about. Everyone knows its legendary live music scene — look no further than Music Row and the Grand Ole Opry — but there’s plenty more to explore in Nashville this summer.

The city continues to be a mecca for foodies, and there are so many new hotels and attractions that it’s hard to keep track of them all. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a wealth of activities in Nashville’s parks, lakes, and greenways, while culture vultures won’t want to miss the surprising architecture, museums, and murals. There’s always a packed lineup of special events, but we love Fridays by the River, a laid-back, family-friendly beer garden by the iconic Cumberland River.

9. Clearwater, Florida

Beaches are a summer vacation staple, and Clearwater Beach landed at No. 2 on TripAdvisor’s list of the best U.S. beaches, thanks to 3 miles of sugar sand with shallow waters perfect for parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and splashing. After a day at the beach, be sure to check out the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a working animal hospital that rescues and returns marine creatures to the wild. Plus, fans of surrealism won’t want to miss this summer’s Dali in America exhibit in nearby St. Petersburg, examining the Spanish artist’s relationship with the U.S. and his impact on American culture.

8. Seattle, Washington

With long days, mild temps, and minimal rainfall, summer delivers the Emerald City’s best weather, and the season has a lot going on in 2026. Six FIFA World Cup matches will be held in June and July, giving the city an electric, global energy. Beyond fútbol fever, Pike Place Market and the Seattle Center — home to the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Pop Culture — offer a classic Seattle itinerary. Families won’t want to miss Woodland Park Zoo, either, where the new Forest Trailhead beckons with a treetop path, red pandas, and tree kangaroos.

7. Panama City Beach, Florida

With 27 miles of white-sand beaches, Panama City Beach draws vacationers seeking an affordable beach escape. Get away from the crowds to snorkel, kayak, and dolphin-watch at Shell Island — an undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat. The summer calendar is packed with events such as the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam, celebrating four days of country and Southern rock music at the beach, and the weekly Summer Concert Series, which takes place at Aaron Bessant Park through August.

6. Key West, Florida

A tropical island without a passport? Key West might be just the ticket. The Hemingway Home and Museum is an essential stop for literature (and cat) lovers, while fans of presidential history will want to check out Harry S. Truman’s “Little White House.” Tourists and locals alike gather on the historic waterfront to watch the sunset each evening at Mallory Square, and don’t miss the Key Lime Festival, running July 1 through 5, with pie tastings, cocktail competitions, and more.

5. Ocean City, Maryland

Summer classics like saltwater taffy, miniature golf, and amusement park rides — along with easy access from Baltimore, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and New York — keep East Coast visitors flocking to Ocean City’s beaches and boardwalk year after year. The OC Air Show sees top military and civilian flight teams soaring over 10 miles of beach in June, and anglers can’t resist August’s White Marlin Open, the largest billfishing tournament in the world.

4. Las Vegas, Nevada

Sin City never stops reinventing itself, and summer 2026 will be no exception. Grand Prix Plaza has a redesigned F1 go-karting track and an upgraded 4D theater, while the Sphere brings a lineup including The Wizard of Oz and the Backstreet Boys. 

You can also always revisit the classics, like the Fountains of Bellagio with more than 1,000 water jets shooting up to 40 stories and synchronized to music. For a stunning natural experience nearby, head to Red Rock Canyon for 2,000-foot red sandstone escarpments and ancient petroglyphs. (Pro tip: Be sure to go early, as afternoon temperatures often exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit.)

3. Chicago, Illinois

Readers of Condé Nast Traveler have voted Chicago as the Best Big City in the U.S. for nine consecutive years, and this summer is as great a time to visit as any. The Obama Presidential Center opens on the city’s South Side in early summer, and Chicago will be celebrating the Route 66 centennial all year as the official starting point of the historic highway. The Windy City goes all in on summer festivals, too: The largest free blues festival in the world draws more than half a million attendees in early June, while Lollapalooza takes over eight stages in Grant Park from July 30 through August 2.

2. New York, New York

There’s no shortage of things to do in New York any time, but summer 2026 will leave travelers spoiled for choice. Eight FIFA World Cup matches — including the final game at nearby MetLife Stadium — will suffuse the city with excitement, even for fans who don’t have a ticket. And beyond classics like Central Park, the High Line, the Met, and the Empire State Building, free concerts and outdoor movie nights run throughout the summer in all five boroughs. If nothing else, Coney Island’s beach and boardwalk reliably deliver a healthy dose of vintage summer pleasure.

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The appeal of TripAdvisor’s summer top spot in 2026 is undeniable: Myrtle Beach’s “Grand Strand” offers 60 miles of uninterrupted Atlantic shoreline. The area draws roughly 14 million annual visitors to its boardwalks, amusement parks, and golf courses. This year, there are even more reasons to visit, as Family Kingdom Amusement Park celebrates its 60th anniversary and Brookgreen Gardens debuts a new $17 million conservatory. Plus, the Carolina Country Music Festival returns June 4 through 7, featuring headliners Blake Shelton, Post Malone, Luke Bryan, and Riley Green.

Travel warnings are official government reports that outline risks and precautions for citizens traveling to a foreign destination. They are updated regularly as conditions change, but without context, travel advisories can create confusion, spark unnecessary fear, or even lead to pertinent information being dismissed entirely. When used correctly, however, such warnings are powerful tools for staying safe while traveling. Here’s a helpful guide to what travel warnings actually mean for your next trip abroad.

U.S. Travel Advisory Levels

In the United States, travel warnings, which the U.S. Department of State officially calls travel advisories, are written specifically for U.S. citizens, nationals, and legal residents. They span four levels: Level 1 is the lowest threat, and Level 4 is the highest.

These advisories often apply to entire countries, even if only certain regions are impacted. The Department of State regularly reviews advisories and updates them as conditions change or new security concerns arise. At a minimum, Levels 1 and 2 are reviewed every 12 months, while Levels 3 and 4 are reviewed every six months, though updates can happen at any time.

You can find these advisories on the Department of State’s website, which features a color-coded map and a search tool to help you quickly find your destination.

Levels 1 and 2: Lower Risk

Travelers can likely anticipate smooth sailing if their destination has a Level 1 advisory, under which the State Department suggests visitors should “exercise normal precautions.” Canada and Australia, for example, currently have Level 1 travel advisories for U.S. travelers. The State Department notes that while there is always some risk with international travel, this is the lowest-level advisory in terms of safety and security.

Level 2 advisories suggest there may be “increased risks to safety and security.” Many popular tourist destinations fall under this advisory, including most of Europe — Italy, Spain, France, and Germany, among other countries — as well as Peru, South Africa, and the Philippines. Specific risks are further outlined in travel advisories, including any areas that may be more dangerous for tourists.

Levels 3 and 4: Reconsider or Do Not Travel

If your destination has a Level 3 travel advisory, the U.S. Department of State urges would-be visitors to “reconsider travel.” This level of advisory signals serious safety and security risks. Several Mexican states are currently classified at Level 3, including Chihuahua, Sonora, and Baja California.

A Level 4 travel advisory comes with life-threatening risks and a “do not travel” warning. While specific dangers are described in detail under each advisory, in general, this means the U.S. government has very limited or no ability to assist travelers during an emergency (as opposed to countries with Level 1, 2, or 3 warnings). If you are traveling in a country and the advisory escalates to Level 4, follow official guidance and leave if it is safe to do so. Countries with current Level 4 advisories for U.S. travelers include Russia, Ukraine, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Burma, North Korea, and about a dozen others.

U.S. Travel Advisory Risk Factors

The risk factors behind each advisory fall into nine categories, and the State Department assigns each one an abbreviation: crime (C), terrorism (T), unrest (U), health (H), natural disaster (N), time-limited event (E), kidnapping or hostage-taking (K), wrongful detention (D), and other (O).

While most risk factors are self-explanatory, crime is the most variable — and also one of the most commonly cited. It refers to the increased risk that a U.S. traveler will be a victim of crime. This can include anything from pickpocketing and scams to more serious violent incidents, which is why it’s important to read the full advisory.

For example, the U.K. has a Level 2 advisory for crime related to “snatch and grab” theft of phones, watches, and jewelry, as well as robberies in unlicensed taxis or at ATMs. However, the advisory notes that “violent crimes or crimes against property are rare.” In contrast, Somalia, which has a Level 4 advisory, also bears a “crime” label, but for widespread violent or organized crime.

How To Use Travel Warnings Wisely

Not all risks affect tourists equally, and they can vary widely by location and circumstances. Mexico, for instance, is assessed on a state-by-state basis, with advisory levels spanning all four categories. It is up to travelers to research the state they’re visiting to understand the risk. For example, Yucatán — home to iconic tourist highlights such as Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and Cancún — currently holds a Level 1 advisory (the lowest).

When you see an advisory, it should also encourage you to take precautions. For example, you might choose to stay exclusively in resort areas, opt for guided tours, or purchase travel insurance that covers trip cancellations and medical evacuation. You can also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service from the U.S. Department of State that sends real-time safety updates and helps the nearest embassy contact you in case of an emergency.

Featured image credit: Credit: © Tada Images/stock.adobe.com

While planning a road trip through the Irish countryside, I was delighted to learn that as a U.S. driver, I didn’t need to file any extra paperwork to rent a car in Ireland. I simply showed up at the rental location, presented my U.S. driver’s license, picked up my car, and was good to go. But this isn’t the case in every country. In fact, many nations require — or at least recommend — extra documentation for U.S. license holders before they can hit the highway. Here are the countries that require a little extra planning before renting a car.

The Power of an International Driving Permit

Many countries around the world will not allow you to get behind the wheel with a U.S. driver’s license on its own, due to differences in legal systems, driving conventions, and languages. However, the good news is that an International Driving Permit (IDP) can be used alongside a valid U.S. driver’s license in more than 150 countries worldwide, including most popular tourist destinations. (In addition to your license and IDP, you’ll need a valid passport while driving abroad.)

An IDP is a form of identification that translates your information into 10 languages. In the U.S., they can be purchased from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) for about $25 plus shipping. Anyone with a valid driver’s license can apply for one. Of note, because they are issued by authorized organizations in your home country, you’ll need to obtain one before your trip.

This document must be carried alongside your driver’s license in countries that require or recommend it. If you don’t have it when required, you may face fines under local laws. 

Where Is an IDP Required?

A U.S. driver’s license is accepted when paired with an IDP in approximately 150 countries, though enforcement varies. In Europe, for instance, several countries legally require U.S. drivers to carry an IDP when renting a car or operating a vehicle. Popular destinations that enforce these laws include Spain, Italy, Austria, and Poland.

Note that some European countries — such as France, Germany, Greece, Switzerland, Portugal, and the Netherlands — do not legally require an IDP for short-term U.S. travelers. However, some rental agencies require one anyway, and it’s often recommended because it can simplify interactions with local authorities.

Elsewhere, IDP enforcement varies based on local laws and rental car regulations. In Asia, countries such as Japan and South Korea require U.S. tourists to carry an IDP and their driver’s license. In Singapore, U.S. drivers may use their American license for up to 12 months without an IDP, though one is still recommended, especially when renting a car.

In other popular tourist destinations, such as South Africa, New Zealand, and Costa Rica, a U.S. driver’s license is the only documentation required during short stays, though an IDP is always suggested when there is a language barrier. As for Australia, each state or territory has different rules about foreign driver’s licenses and IDPs, so be sure to do a little extra research before heading Down Under.

Notably, Canada and Mexico do not require IDPs for American drivers, due to long-standing travel agreements and similar licensing systems. Likewise, the U.K. and Ireland do not require IDPs, though this privilege is limited to visits of up to 12 months.

You may have also heard of the Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP), issued by AAA and originally designed for use across the Americas. While it is still technically valid in some countries, it is rarely required in practice. Most destinations in North, Central, and South America accept either a U.S. driver’s license alone or a license with a standard IDP. 

Where a U.S. License and IDP Are Not Accepted

While obtaining an IDP will cover your bases in the vast majority of countries, a handful of destinations either require travelers to obtain a local license or prohibit independent driving altogether.

China

It is usually best to book with a tour group if you’re planning to explore off the beaten path in China, as visitors are not allowed to drive with a U.S. driver’s license or an IDP. If you’d like to rent a car, you can apply for a China Provisional Driving Permit, which effectively converts your domestic driver’s license into a temporary Chinese license. Tourists will need a valid U.S. passport with a short-term China visa (90 days or less), a U.S. driver’s license, and a Registration Form of Temporary Residence, which is mandatory for all foreign travelers to China.

Bermuda

Leave the driving to the locals on this tropical island. In Bermuda, nonresidents are not allowed to own, rent, or drive four-wheeled vehicles. Instead, taxis, private drivers, and public transportation are the primary ways to get around. Two-seater electric scooters are available for tourists to rent with a valid U.S. driver’s license, but roads around the island can be challenging — drivers must stay on the left, and many roads are extremely narrow, overgrown, or bordered by stone walls.

Vietnam

Americans cannot drive in Vietnam because it recognizes the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic — which the U.S. has not ratified — so American-issued IDPs are not valid. Unfortunately, short-stay tourists cannot obtain a local driver’s license in Vietnam, as a minimum three-month stay is required, along with an exam. Travelers who attempt to drive without proper documentation risk fines or legal penalties, so most opt for hired drivers or guided transportation to explore Vietnam’s stunning countryside and coast. 

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