The College does not provide insurance for your personal possessions.  Check to see if your family has a homeowner’s/renter's insurance policy that will cover your personal property while abroad.

If not, you are also strongly encouraged to purchase insurance for loss of property due to the relatively high incidences of pickpocketing and other theft abroad. Think of what you would do if your computer, camera, or other valuables were lost or stolen.

Be aware that If you do have a loss abroad, you will normally need to obtain a police report from when you reported the theft to submit to your insurance company.  In these cases, International SOS (our global assistance partner) can advise you on how to navigate this process in your location. 

When traveling, secure your passport in a safe place such as a money belt worn under your outer clothing or a zippered compartment of a pouch that you wear close to your body. Once you have reached your destination, make sure to store your passport in a secure place such as a program office or hotel/hostel safe. If your passport is lost or stolen, it must be replaced immediately at the embassy or consulate of your country of citizenship. Make a photocopy of your passport and keep it with you in a separate place from your passport. This will make it easier to have your passport replaced quickly if it is lost or stolen.

No. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. In some legal systems you are considered guilty until proven innocent.  Be aware that many countries impose harsh penalties for violations that would be considered minor in the U.S.

Do not carry weapons. Even a pocket knife can result in a serious weapons charge while on foreign soil - even if the knife is found during a search or arrest for an unrelated offense.  In some countries (such as the UK) pepper spray is classified as a prohibited weapon.  Unintentionally carrying pepper spray into a country where it is illegal can result in severe legal consequences.

Avoid participating in demonstrations and other political activities. Political activities in other countries can result in detention and/or deportation by officials. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can sometimes turn violent.  As a visitor, you may not be able to pick up the social cues to sense this shift.  You do not want to be caught in the middle.

In some countries you can be arrested for photographing security-related institutions, such as police and military installations, government buildings, border areas, and transportation facilities. When in doubt, always ask if it is okay to take photos.

In some countries you can be arrested for purchasing souvenirs that are actually antiques or appear to be antiques (especially in Turkey, Egypt, and Mexico).

Governments cannot bail their citizens out of jail. If you find yourself in a legal jam, contact the closest embassy or consulate (as relevant for your citizenship) for assistance. However, keep in mind that consular employees cannot arrange for local officials to release detained citizens. Travelers in need of urgent assistance should contact the 24/7 support team at International SOS who will liaise with Swarthmore's Global Engagement Office.