Russia Travel Safety Tips
Russia is a very popular travel destination. Moscow and St. Petersburg are, by far, the two cities most visited. However, Russia is a vast country with many intriguing places to see. No matter where you go, the tips below will help you to have a safe trip.
Before leaving for Russia, it is a good idea to photocopy your passport and leave a copy or it, along with a detailed itinerary, with a friend or relative.
U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport and appropriate visas for travel to, or transit through, Russia and many of its neighboring countries, whether by train, car, ship or airplane.
A business visa requires a letter of invitation from a business contact in the country to which you are traveling. A transit visa requires a copy of your confirmed ticket and visa, if required, to your onward destination.
An exit visa is usually required to depart Russia. For short stays, the exit visa is issued along with the entry visa and is only valid until the date listed on the visa.
The Caucasus region of Russia experiences civil and political unrest. The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to the areas of Chechnya, all areas bordering Chechnya, North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Dagestan, Stavropol, Karachayevo-Cherkessiya and Kabardino-Balkariya.
One of the first things you should do upon arriving in Russia is register at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, especially if you plan to stay for a month or longer or you are going to a place where communications are poor.
Carry your photo identification and the name of a person to contact with you in the event of serious illness or other emergency.
Keep copies of your passport, visa, airline or other tickets and a list of your traveler’s checks with you in a separate location from the originals and leave copies with someone at home.
It is always a good idea to use a money belt or concealed pouch for your passport, cash and other valuables although you should leave expensive jewelry, unnecessary credit cards and anything you would hate to lose at home. Never display large sums of money when paying a bill.
You should take food and water with you when traveling by train or car. The availability or quality of these goods is not reliable throughout the region.
Avoid driving at night and never drive alone during this time. Highway crime is always a risk, especially at night. Never, under any circumstances, pick up hitchhikers.
A valid U.S. driver’s license, a valid international driver’s license or a valid license from the country in which you are traveling are necessary to drive a vehicle in Russia.
Crime against foreigners is a problem. Use common sense to avoid assault, robbery, or pickpockets in the large cities. Keep alert in bus and train stations and on public transportation.
If you have been the victim of a crime, immediately contact the U.S. Embassy or the nearest U.S. consulate or consular agency. For addresses and telephone numbers, see the end of this pamphlet. You should also report the crime to the local police immediately.
Medicare/Medicaid does not cover you when you are outside the United States. If your insurance policy doesn’t cover you outside the United States, you should consider purchasing one that does. You can find a short-term policy for as low as $50.00 for a trip of 30 days.
Bring any necessary medications with you and keep them in the original, labeled containers in your hand luggage.
Following the above tips will help minimize risks during your trip and increase your chances of experiencing a fun, rewarding journey.
Remember to get your U.S. passport and Russian travel visa.