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The Top Movies, Literature and Music Inspiring Today’s Make-Up Travel

Expert travelers reveal their top picks for the movies, books and songs that ignited their wanderlust in 2023.

Apr 10, 2026 5 mins read

How Secure Is Mexico for the FIFA World Cup 2026?

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Mar 27, 2026 6 mins read

US State Department Issues Worldwide Security Alert

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Track Hacks: A Smart Explorer’s Guide to Safe Train Travel in Europe

Navigating Europe’s revitalized railroad renaissance for budget routes, sleeper trains and safe and scenic adventures.

What’s the hottest new way to travel across Europe? It’s not budget airlines anymore. It’s the clickety clack of wheels on rails – Europe’s railroad system. Whether scenic daytime travel or sleeper cars at night, high speed or old school locomotives, new routes and amenities – plus a lower environmental footprint – make train travel the most attractive option in decades. All of this can be yours if you understand where the benefits are, how to avoid the pitfalls and what safe travel looks like in this new age of trains.

Budget Routes With Benefits

Paige McClanahan for The New York Times writes that this new wave is thanks, in part, to public and private investment to help citizens thrive in the midst of a difficult economy.

For example, Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national rail company, offered affordable monthly passes in response to the sharp rise in everyday costs of living, like electricity and food. The Deutschland-Ticket was subsequently created to allow virtually unlimited, affordable travel on trains, buses and subways.

“The possibilities are enticing,” she writes. “Beer lovers, for example, could travel from Düsseldorf to Cologne to Bamberg and onward to Munich, hopping off for distinctive local brews along the way. Those in search of scenery, meanwhile, might prefer the West Rhine Railway, stretching down the Rhine from Cologne in the north to Mainz.”

Spain’s Avlo service offers a different take on budget travel. It operates high-speed, low-cost trains, running between Madrid and Barcelona. Tickets start around $7 for this budget route, which expanded in June of this year. France has its own high-speed, low-cost routes through Ouigo, with tickets starting from $11. Routes begin in Paris and extend throughout the country.

Cat Jones, founder of Byway Travel, which focuses on overland journeys, told National Geographic’s Ben Lerwill that “rail travel is about far more than being whisked from A to B, advocating the benefits of being able to explore using the relevant rail passes.”

“There’s huge investment in night services and high-speed rail, but the off-the-beaten-path, rural stopping services can be more fun and more flexible,” she said. “They’re focused on the richness of the experience. You see how the landscapes shift. Countries like Italy and Switzerland are more enjoyable on so many levels if you don’t fly miles above them.”

Hotels and restaurants are offering benefits for train travelers, like regional passes as a part of a hotel stay or local food and goods along the train route, writes Alex Ledson for Forbes.

Beds with pillows next to a window looking out at the passing countryside from inside a train's sleeper car.

The Rise of Sleeper Trains

In 2016, sleeper trains seemed to be on the out, Will Hawkes wrote for The Washington Post. The government of France cut funding for sleepers and dwindling consumer interest would surely follow.

But sleeper trains are hardly being put to bed. In fact, several countries are investing big bucks in improvements to them. McClanahan also covered their rise, sharing a perspective from Alain Krakovitch, director of travel at SNCF, France’s state-owned railway company.

“It’s true that this is a huge draw for passengers. The idea of being able to fall asleep in Paris and wake up in Nice saves a night in a hotel,” Mr. Krakovitch told The Times. “It allows you to arrive very early in Nice without being tired. It’s a product that has many benefits, but we had to invest heavily to relaunch it. We hope to keep this momentum going.”

Finding the Right Routes and Best Deals

If you’re traveling within a country, it can be fairly easy to identify the best routes and deals. Traveling to other countries becomes a bit more difficult because routes are not always coordinated.

Lerwill points travelers to trainline.com and raileurope.com to “provide the connectivity and journey-planning logic to make the relevant reservations in one place.”

Travel spanning across the continent gets even more complicated.

“A one-stop shop for continent-wide ticketing simply doesn’t exist,” Lerwill writes. “Which also means that some of the best information on money-saving passes and advance fares is buried away on country-specific websites, often not in English.

For this, he recommends tour operators, such as Trailfinders, Saga and Riviera Travel.

Safe Travel by Train

From a U.S. traveler’s perspective, it may seem unusual that some European railways don’t necessitate passenger identity checks or require their luggage to go through scanners or metal detectors prior to boarding.

Eurostar trains travel between the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany and passengers are required to present a valid passport or identity card, as they might pass through customs depending on the journey taken, according to Rail Europe.

Train station security is more relaxed than at airports. There are no lengthy check-in procedures or security screenings for most train travel, according to the Savvy Backpacker. “You simply show up a few minutes before the train leaves, buy a ticket if you don’t have one (often from a ticket machine with English instructions), and hop on the train.”

Does this make rail travel dangerous? It doesn’t appear so. Sure, there have been emergencies. Like the Dutch train hostage crisis half a century ago, when nine terrorists hijacked a train and held hostages for 20 days, or the incident nearly a decade ago when a man opened fire on a train bound for Paris from Amsterdam before French, American and British passengers confronted the attacker and subdued him.

Overwhelmingly, however, rail travel in Europe is one of the safest means of travel out there. According to a 2022 report on Railway Safety and Interoperability in the EU, “major accidents (with five or more fatalities) [are] becoming increasingly rare and significant accidents have decreased in recent years.”

Safe travel means more than just getting from one place to another in one piece, however. Trains are not immune from – and can in fact be hubs for – classic travel scams. This includes everything from pickpocketing to ticket scams.

Before you arrive at the train station, look at a map and identify where ticket counters and train platforms are located. That way, when you arrive at the station, you can move confidently to your destination and not look like a lost tourist, which is likely to attract scammers.

On trains, keep an eye on your baggage. Don’t leave it unattended in baggage compartments at the end of your train car, as it could be swiped before your stop. If trains get crowded, keep an eye on your purse and pockets, as crowded train cars are ripe for thieves.

“Trained” To Handle Any Emergency

As always, purchase your Global Rescue membership ahead of your trip to ensure that if a crisis occurs – even on a scenic train trip through the Alps – you’ve got the world’s best medical, security and evacuation services just a phone call away.

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Is Mount Everest’s Spring Season Starting Earlier Than Ever?

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Back to blog listing

Mission Briefs: Global Rescue In Action – November

A brief recap of standout operations in which Global Rescue was involved during November 2023.

Travelers are taking more trips than ever in 2023 and many are seeking higher levels of adventure, according to the Global Rescue Traveler Survey. More than a third of survey respondents (34%) are planning to take more adventurous or riskier trips in the future. Most respondents reported that the possibility of travel restrictions in the future and the YOLO maxim – you only live once – drives them to get as much adventure travel in as possible before they no longer can.

“Travelers are exhibiting behavior consistent with an increasing desire for immersive experiences,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services, and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

As travelers venture to places they have never been, find unusual destinations where they can have completely new experiences, or simply stick with the tried-and-true locales, Global Rescue is answering the service needs of travelers here and abroad without any disruptions. In a typical 30-day period, Global Rescue executes hundreds of operations in dozens of countries and territories. Below are highlights from some of our most recent operations in various locations.

Infant Evacuation in Nepal

A 19-month-old baby from Brazil needed a high-altitude field rescue and medical evacuation from Dingboche, Nepal, (14,470 feet/4,410 meters) after developing symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS). The Dingboche-based medical clinic staff reported the baby registered low oxygen levels, elevated heart rate, rapid breathing, and cyanosis (skin bluing). Due to the baby’s worsening condition, Global Rescue medical operations activated an airborne medical evacuation. She was safely transported to a hospital in Kathmandu, where she was evaluated, treated and admitted. Fortunately, the baby’s symptoms improved significantly at the lower elevation and with treatment. She was discharged to her parent the next day with a diagnosis of AMS.

The rooftops and Sacre Couer of Paris, France.

Pitfall in Paris

A U.S. member slipped and fell in Paris injuring her left shoulder. Local physicians diagnosed a fracture of the left humeral bone and recommended immobilizing the shoulder for six weeks. Unfortunately, the injury was painful and limited the member’s mobility. Global Rescue medical operations physicians reviewed the medical report and recommended luggage and wheelchair assistance for the member during her flights home as well as car service from the airport to her home. She successfully returned home for follow-up care and recovery.

Post-Surgical Medical Evacuation from Cyprus

A U.S. member visiting Cyprus was suffering from upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. She was transported and admitted to a local hospital where the doctors diagnosed her with gallstones (cholelithiasis) and underwent surgery immediately. Global Rescue medical operations personnel approved a medical escort to manage the member’s post-surgery assistance and medication administration during transport home. Global Rescue secured business class seating for the member and her children for their return trip home to Chicago. Global Rescue provided wheelchair and luggage assistance for all transfer points as well as car service from the airport to the member’s home where she and her family safely arrived.

Two people ride on a motorcycle in the Namibian desert.

Motorcycle Crash in Namibia

A member from California needed field rescue and medical evacuation from Swakopmund, Namibia, after suffering an accident while riding his dirt bike. He was rushed to a medical clinic and a member of his group contacted Global Rescue. Following a series of CT scans and X-rays, it was determined that the accident caused a broken wrist and severe damage to his neck requiring surgery beyond the capabilities of the clinic. Global Rescue initiated a medical evacuation to another hospital where a specialist neurosurgeon would operate. The surgeries on his neck and wrist were successful and the treating physician discharged the member with orders for a day’s rest and recovery at a hotel with his father. Global Rescue provided business class flights for the member and his father who arrived safely home in Los Angeles.

Severe Allergic Reaction in Tanzania

A Canadian member needed field rescue from Gilman’s Point, Tanzania, after developing facial swelling, elevated heart rate, shortness of breath, and loss of balance. She alerted Global Rescue using her Zoleo SOS button. Global Rescue medical operations personnel assessed her condition and initiated a field rescue from Barafu Camp to a medical center. Following an airborne transport, she was diagnosed with extreme fatigue and photo contact dermatitis with respiratory issues triggered by an allergic reaction to a diuretic used to ease AMS. The treating medical physician discharged her with a prescription for medications to assist her recovery. She returned home with a plan to follow up with her primary care physician.

Inside the cockpit of a helicopter, looking over the shoulder of two pilots, out at a man waving the aircraft in.

Finger Frostbite in Nepal

A U.S. member was trekking in Nepal when he contacted Global Rescue from Kumbhakarna Base Camp in Lelep to report he was suffering from frostbite on his right ring finger and the tips of his left hand. Global Rescue medical operations assessed the situation and discovered the member’s condition was worsening, as a blister became an open wound on one of his fingers and it no longer had any sensation, while his left fingertips had turned purple and were numbing. Global Rescue personnel initiated an immediate emergency helicopter rescue to transport the member to a hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, nightfall and weather conditions delayed the rescue until the next morning. Global Rescue physicians advised the member to descend to a lower altitude to help his body warm thereby providing increased oxygenation for tissue preservation. The next day, the member was successfully transported to a hospital where treating doctors diagnosed him with frostbite. He underwent a five-day iloprost treatment to improve the blood flow and increase skin tissue restoration. The member completed his treatment and reported no issues with his condition.

Volleyball Accident in Switzerland

A U.S. member needed field rescue following a volleyball accident in Switzerland where he injured his right ankle. Global Rescue coordinated with local first responders who reset the ankle before transporting him to a medical facility where staff evaluated the injury and took X-rays. No fractures were noted. The member reported positive recovery progress and noted minimal discomfort from the injury. He and his family planned to return to the U.S. for an MRI and a consultation with a specialist regarding further treatment and care if needed.

Multiple Sclerosis Episode Prompts Evac from Nepal

A U.S. member needed airborne evacuation from Thamel, Nepal, and a medical escort home following a medical episode related to Multiple Sclerosis. During a visit to Kathmandu, Nepal, the member experienced uncontrollable twitching, headache and extreme pain related to nerve damage caused by her disease. Her husband contacted Global Rescue for help. Following an initial assessment, the Global Rescue medical operations team immediately advised the member to go to the hospital. She was admitted and transferred to the intensive care unit for management and monitoring by the hospital’s neurologist. Global Rescue physicians worked with the neurologist in Nepal and the member’s neurologist in the U.S. to discuss the management of her symptoms and travel recommendations. Global Rescue provided business class flights with airport assistance. Unfortunately, the member had another episode, delaying her return home. Following her recovery, Global Rescue deployed a medical escort to assist with the member’s return home and management of her medications. She and her husband arrived home safely without incident where she will continue her treatment.

Medevac Due to Spinal Meningitis in Italy

A U.S. member needed medical evacuation from Firenze, Italy, to her home in the U.S. after being diagnosed with spinal meningitis. Global Rescue was contacted by the member’s representative asking for assistance to transfer her to the U.S. Following an assessment of the medical report, Global Rescue provided air ambulance transport for the member to her home hospital of choice in Florida.

For the modern-day traveler, a Global Rescue membership provides services traditional travel insurance doesn’t offer including field rescue, medical evacuation, and medical and security advisory, to name just a few. But it’s the benefit of peace of mind, inspired by those services – and the Global Rescue emergency experts who deliver them 24/7/365 – that resonates most with our members.

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Record-Breaking Travel Volume, Travelers Taking More Trips Than Before the Pandemic

(Lebanon, N.H. – November 27, 2023) The travel rebound continues as travel volumes break records. More than 80% of the world's most experienced travelers took as many or more trips in 2023 than at any…

(Lebanon, N.H. – November 27, 2023) The travel rebound continues as travel volumes break records. More than 80% of the world’s most experienced travelers took as many or more trips in 2023 than at any time before the pandemic, according to the Global Rescue Fall Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey. More than a third of respondents (35%) said they traveled more in 2023 than any time before the pandemic. Nearly half (48%) said they traveled about the same amount and less than a fifth (17%) traveled less.

The enduring travel recovery is welcome news for the travel industry, and travel continues to surpass pre-pandemic travel levels. “Adventure travel, luxury travel and other activity-focused segments continue to see strong growth. Many places are at capacity or are over-subscribed and have waiting lists,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services, and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Despite rising travel costs, airline flight disruptions and travel staff shortages, most survey respondents (66%) did not cancel any trips in 2023 and more than a third (38%) did not postpone any travel plans. Fewer than 5% of survey respondents said they had to cancel at least one trip due to rising travel costs and fewer than a tenth (9%) had to postpone a trip.

Experts predicted the travel rebound could lead to crowding at popular destinations, limited flights and lodging availability. More than half of survey respondents (58%) did not encounter any sold-out occurrences for any of their trips. However, nearly a third (30%) said they were prevented at least once from booking something because it was sold out. Fewer than a tenth (7%) said they missed out on a booking three times or more.

For most travelers responding to the survey (67%), it was a flight that was sold out. Fewer than half (41%) of respondents said it was lodging that was unavailable. Fewer than a fifth (16%) said restaurants were unavailable.

The bullwhip effect may help reverse rising travel costs and increase flight and lodging availability. “Where previously ordered but undelivered supply like airplanes, buses and trained labor finally arrive in a market with tepid demand, falling prices will result,” Richards said.

###

Contact Bill McIntyre at bmcintyre@globalrescue.com or 202.560.1195 (phone/text) for more information.

About the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey

Global Rescue, the leading travel risk and crisis response provider, surveyed more than 2,300 of its current and former members from October 5-12, 2023. The respondents revealed a variety of behaviors, attitudes and preferences regarding current and future travel.

About Global Rescue

The Global Rescue Companies are the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals. Founded in 2004, Global Rescue has exclusive relationships with the Johns Hopkins Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations and Elite Medical Group. Global Rescue provides best-in-class services that identify, monitor and respond to client medical and security crises. Global Rescue has provided medical and security support to its clients, including Fortune 500 companies, governments and academic institutions, during every globally significant crisis of the last two decades. For more information, visit www.globalrescue.com.

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Global Rescue’s 2023 Last Minute Holiday Travel Gift Guide

Lebanon, N.H. – November 20, 2023 – The 2023 Annual Global Rescue Holiday Travel Gift Guide includes 15 perfect gifts for anyone is on your winter shopping list, including you. The Global Rescue 2023 Holiday…

Lebanon, N.H. – November 20, 2023 – The 2023 Annual Global Rescue Holiday Travel Gift Guide includes 15 perfect gifts for anyone is on your winter shopping list, including you. The Global Rescue 2023 Holiday Gift Guide provides curated recommendations from the world’s most experienced travelers, our in-house medical and security professionals, and Global Rescue’s Safe Travel Partners.

“We asked the world’s most experienced travelers — Global Rescue’s medical and security professionals, our Safe Travel Partners and members – to curate a list of must-have gifts for leisure and business travelers,” said Michael Holmes, marketing vice president at Global Rescue, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services.

“The following recommendations can be part of your holiday wish list or thoughtful goodies to bestow upon your loved ones,” Holmes said.

Global Rescue’s 2023 Winter Holiday Travel Gift Guide

Airfly Wireless Adapter – AirFly is a wireless adapter that lets you use your wireless Bluetooth headphones or earbuds in places that only have a headphone jack, like airplanes. Plug this tiny transmitter into the headphone jack to listen to in-flight movies, TV and music. “There’s nothing worse than a long flight with poor sound quality,” said Global Rescue’s Operations Manager Dan Stretch. “Airfly also means you can use your noise cancelling settings to drown out any engine noise,” he added.
Airport Lounge Access – Sometimes the worst parts of travel are the long lines, delays, and all the hustle and bustle that’s associated with getting there and going home. But airport lounge access can make transit time much easier and enjoyable. You can purchase a Plaza Premium airport lounge gift card or you can gift a Priority Pass airport lounge access membership.
Bug-Out Bag – The Seventy2 Survival System is called Seventy2 because the first 72 hours of a survival situation is extremely critical, and these kits have been designed — with the help of first responders, doctors, special forces operators and mountain guides — to provide the gear you need in a potentially deadly situation. This bug-out bag, made of heavy-duty waterproof canvas, comes with a tent, water filtration system, fire starter and first aid kit, to name a few items.
Extra Battery Power – The INIU Portable Charger is an Amazon bestseller and has 10,000 mAh, the minimum recommended by Global Rescue’s Associate Director of Medical Operations, David Koo. It’s slim and light and comes with a USB-A to USB-C Cable and a USB-C port that is both an in/out charging port. The Clutch Charger has 5,000 mAh and magnetically attaches to iPhone 12 (and newer models) or to MagSafe cases. It features a built-in cable and LED battery level indicator so you know how much charge is left.
Mealtime Multi-Tool – Whether you’re living on quinoa while trekking across the Swiss Alps or car-camping in the Shenandoah Valley, the ChowPal by Outdoor Edge is the mealtime multi-tool that makes eating easy and convenient. The ChowPal slides apart to reveal a full utensil set — folding knife, fork, spoon, can opener, bottle opener, flathead screwdriver and graduated wrench — then slides back together for storage in a nylon pouch.
Packable, Slip On Walking Shoes – Whether you’re saving luggage space, easing through security, walking all day, or seeking footwear versatility, the options today are better than ever including FitFlops, Allbird Loungers, Kiziks, OluKai Pehuea Slip On Sneakers or Dr. Scholl’s Madison Slip On Sneaker. The smart traveler can minimize the number of shoes packed for a trip by getting footwear that’s easier to slip on and off yet has support for all-day walking and is suitable for casual to smart-casual settings.
Portable Door Locks – “I always bring with me a portable door lock that I use in my hotel room for extra security,” said Global Rescue’s Medical Operations Senior Specialist Princess Celmea Aspuria. There is a wide variety of portable door locks. CNN lists the top-15 here and adds, “No matter where you decide to stay or the type of lodging you book, a reliable travel door lock can make you feel even more protected from intruders and unwanted guests.”
Power Adapter – The Epicka TA-105C Universal Travel Adapter is an all-in-one adapter equipped with four different plug types covering 200+ countries and regions. It has three USB-C and 2 USB-A ports for charging iPhone, Samsung and other Android phones, smart watch and fitness tracker, tablet, power bank, camera, handheld game console, headsets, and everything else that is charged through a USB port. The Epicka travel adapter is the top choice for Global Rescue’s IT Quality Assurance Engineer Ayesha Usman. “There are a lot of items that I never travel without, but I believe that the Epicka adapter is one of the most essential items that I cannot imagine people traveling without,” she said.
Smart Watches – There are overwhelming shoutouts for smartwatches like the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Google Pixel Watch 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic. People who have them swear by their travel usefulness. Global Rescue’s Senior Manager of Quality Assurance Ammad Aslam said he never forgets to take his smartwatch while travelling. “It is my silent travelling partner. I don’t have to continuously look at my phone because it vibrates to let me know when to turn right or left. It’s like having my own personal guide,” he said.
The “Best” Wine Bottle Opener – The Makupon Multi-Tool Waiters Corkscrew is the “best corkscrew for your carry-on travel,” according to Minimalist Travel. “In our personal experience, the corkscrew…is so small that it has never even been given a second glance at a variety of American, Canadian, and European airports, who if they even see it probably don’t understand what it is.” That makes Global Rescue’s Marketing Director Meghan Mahoney happy. “I don’t know how many times I’ve shown up at my hotel or Airbnb jet-lagged with a beautiful bottle of wine and just wanting a glass and there is no wine opener. I only travel with carry-on luggage and this corkscrew is a must have for me,” said Mahoney.
Travel Garment Steamers – Wrinkles, ugh! You packed so carefully only to unpack and discover a wrinkled mess. Garment steamers are a “must have” for Global Rescue’s Associate Marketing Director Samantha Hosking. The handy travel tool is not available at all lodging establishments. Some places provide steam irons but if you have delicate fabrics, a traditional iron can ruin your clothes. Travelers today are learning that compact travel steamers are light, packable and deliver powerful steam to smooth out wrinkles. The Spruce named the True & Tidy Handheld Garment Steamer “best overall” and included half a dozen others for travelers with specific preferences.
Travel Medical Kit – The MyMedic Mini First Aid Kit is a top pick by Global Rescue’s CEO Dan Richards. The kit comes with the things you will need for day-to-day minor injuries, diarrhea, headache, cuts, burns and more, all packed into a small, sleek and compact carrying case. Add azithromycin (antibiotic) and zofran (prevents nausea) for extra protection.
TSA-Approved Multi-Tool Wallet – The Nite-Ize wallet is also a multi-tool, and it’s TSA-friendly. “I’ve used this for years and it always clears TSA security. The tools I use most are the bottle opener, scraper, and screwdriver. I won’t travel without it,” said Bill McIntyre, Global Rescue communications director. The lightweight wallet includes a seven-in-one multi-tool including: bottle opener, scraper, three wrench sizes, flathead screwdriver, phillips screwdriver/tape cutter and metric + standard ruler.
Water Bottle With Built-in Filters – The Salomon Soft Flask XA filters bacteria and protozoa from natural water sources, so you can drink easily and safely without needing to carry huge volumes of water. Shrinking as you drink to limit water bounce, the flask lets you know exactly how much you have left. It features a wide 42mm cap that is built into the bottle cap.
Travel Protection Membership – Give the gift of peace of mind to the traveler in your life. A Global Rescue membership ensures your loved one is not alone when they board that plane, train or ship. In fact, they are traveling with a virtual team of experts — a paramedic, a translator, a logistics expert, an intelligence analyst and a security advisor. It’s like having a protective detail on standby, prepared to help when you need medical or security advice or a field rescue.

###About Global Rescue

The Global Rescue Companies are the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals. Founded in 2004, Global Rescue has exclusive relationships with the Johns Hopkins Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations and Elite Medical Group. Global Rescue provides best-in-class services that identify, monitor and respond to client medical and security crises. Global Rescue has provided medical and security support to its clients, including Fortune 500 companies, governments and academic institutions, during every globally significant crisis of the last decade. For more information, visit www.globalrescue.com.

For more information, contact Bill McIntyre at bmcintyre@globalrescue.com or +1 202.560.1195.

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Global Rescue’s 2023 Winter Holiday Travel Gift Guide

Thoughtful gifts for travelers seeking comfort, safety and convenience during their journeys.

Is there a loved one in your life who is planning travel to a new, remote destination? Is someone in your family heading for a tried-and-true locale? Are you bound for an international excursion or a nearby staycation? Whoever is on your winter shopping list – including you – the Global Rescue 2023 Holiday Gift Guide provides curated recommendations from the world’s most experienced travelers, our in-house medical and security professionals, and Global Rescue’s Safe Travel Partners.

Check out our 2023 holiday gift guide for people who love to travel:

An Airfly adapter plugged into a seatback screen on an airplane.

Airfly Wireless Adapter

AirFly is a wireless adapter that lets you use your wireless Bluetooth headphones or earbuds in places that only have a headphone jack, like airplanes. Plug this tiny transmitter into the headphone jack to listen to in-flight movies, TV and music. “There’s nothing worse than a long flight with poor sound quality,” said Global Rescue’s Operations Manager Dan Stretch. “Airfly also means you can use your noise cancelling settings to drown out any engine noise,” he added.

An upscale airport business class lounge.

Airport Lounge Access

Sometimes the worst parts of travel are the long lines, delays, and all the hustle and bustle that’s associated with getting there and going home. But airport lounge access can make transit time much easier and enjoyable. You can purchase a Plaza Premium airport lounge gift card or you can gift a Priority Pass airport lounge access membership.

The contents of a "Bug-Out" Bag

Bug-Out Bag

The Seventy2 Survival System is called Seventy2 because the first 72 hours of a survival situation is extremely critical, and these kits have been designed — with the help of first responders, doctors, special forces operators and mountain guides — to provide the gear you need in a potentially deadly situation. This bug-out bag, made of heavy-duty waterproof canvas, comes with a tent, water filtration system, fire starter and first aid kit, to name a few items.

Extra Battery Power

The INIU Portable Charger is an Amazon bestseller and has 10,000 mAh, the minimum recommended by Global Rescue’s Associate Director of Medical Operations, David Koo. It’s slim and light, USB-C in/out port and comes with a USB-A to USB-C Cable. The Clutch Charger has 5,000 mAh and magnetically attaches to iPhone 12 (and newer models) or to MagSafe cases. It features a built-in cable and LED battery level indicator so you know how much charge is left.

The contents of the ChowPal travel utensil kit.

Mealtime Multi-Tool

Whether you’re living on quinoa while trekking across the Swiss Alps or car-camping in the Shenandoah Valley, the ChowPal by Outdoor Edge is the mealtime multi-tool that makes eating easy and convenient. The ChowPal slides apart to reveal a full utensil set — folding knife, fork, spoon, can opener, bottle opener, flathead screwdriver and graduated wrench — then slides back together for storage in a nylon pouch.

Packable, Slip On Walking Shoes

Whether you’re saving luggage space, easing through security, walking all day, or seeking footwear versatility, the options today are better than ever including FitFlops, Allbird Loungers, Kiziks, OluKai Pehuea Slip On Sneakers or Dr. Scholl’s Madison Slip On Sneaker. The smart traveler can minimize the number of shoes packed for a trip by getting footwear that’s easier to slip on and off yet has support for all-day walking and is suitable for casual to smart-casual settings.

Two young women happily walk into a hotel room.

Portable Door Locks

“I always bring with me a portable door lock that I use in my hotel room for extra security,” said Global Rescue’s Medical Operations Senior Specialist Princess Celmea Aspuria. There is a wide variety of portable door locks. CNN lists the top-15 here and adds, “No matter where you decide to stay or the type of lodging you book, a reliable travel door lock can make you feel even more protected from intruders and unwanted guests.”

A black universal power adapter.

Power Adapter

The Epicka TA-105C Universal Travel Adapter is an all-in-one adapter equipped with four different plug types covering 200+ countries and regions. It has three USB-C and 2 USB-A ports for charging iPhone, Samsung and other Android phones, smart watch and fitness tracker, tablet, power bank, camera, handheld game console, headsets, and everything else that is charged through a USB port. The Epicka travel adapter is the top choice for Global Rescue’s IT Quality Assurance Engineer Ayesha Usman. “There are a lot of items that I never travel without, but I believe that the Epicka adapter is one of the most essential items that I cannot imagine people traveling without,” she said.

A black Apple Watch.

Smart Watches

There are overwhelming shoutouts for smartwatches like the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Google Pixel Watch 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic. People who have them swear by their travel usefulness. Global Rescue’s Senior Manager of Quality Assurance Ammad Aslam said he never forgets to take his smartwatch while travelling. “It is my silent travelling partner. I don’t have to continuously look at my phone because it vibrates to let me know when to turn right or left. It’s like having my own personal guide,” he said.

A travel corkscrew.

The “Best” Wine Bottle Opener

The Makupon Multi-Tool Waiters Corkscrew is the “best corkscrew for your carry-on travel,” according to Minimalist Travel. “In our personal experience, the corkscrew…is so small that it has never even been given a second glance at a variety of American, Canadian, and European airports, who if they even see it probably don’t understand what it is.” That makes Global Rescue’s Marketing Director Meghan Mahoney happy. “I don’t know how many times I’ve shown up at my hotel or Airbnb jet-lagged with a beautiful bottle of wine and just wanting a glass and there is no wine opener. I only travel with carry-on luggage and this corkscrew is a must have for me,” said Mahoney.

A small clothing steamer working on a green shirt.

Travel Garment Steamers

Wrinkles, ugh! You packed so carefully only to unpack and discover a wrinkled mess. Garment steamers are a “must have” for Global Rescue’s Associate Marketing Director Samantha Hosking. The handy travel tool is not available at all lodging establishments. Some places provide steam irons but if you have delicate fabrics, a traditional iron can ruin your clothes. Travelers today are learning that compact travel steamers are light, packable and deliver powerful steam to smooth out wrinkles. The Spruce named the True & Tidy Handheld Garment Steamer “best overall” and included half a dozen others for travelers with specific preferences.

Inside of a small first aid kit.

Travel Medical Kit

The MyMedic Mini First Aid Kit is a top pick by Global Rescue’s CEO Dan Richards. The kit comes with the things you will need for day-to-day minor injuries, diarrhea, headache, cuts, burns and more, all packed into a small, sleek and compact carrying case. Add azithromycin (antibiotic) and zofran (prevents nausea) for extra protection.

A Nite Ize multi tool wallet.

TSA-Approved Multi-Tool Wallet

The Nite-Ize wallet is also a multi-tool, and it’s TSA-friendly. “I’ve used this for years and it always clears TSA security. The tools I use most are the bottle opener, scraper, and screwdriver. I won’t travel without it,” said Bill McIntyre, Global Rescue communications director. The lightweight wallet includes a seven-in-one multi-tool including: bottle opener, scraper, three wrench sizes, flathead screwdriver, phillips screwdriver/tape cutter and metric + standard ruler.

A Salomon soft water flask and filtration system.

Water Bottle With Built-in Filters

The Salomon Soft Flask XA filters bacteria and protozoa from natural water sources, so you can drink easily and safely without needing to carry huge volumes of water. Shrinking as you drink to limit water bounce, the flask lets you know exactly how much you have left. It features a wide 42mm cap that is built into the bottle cap.

Travel Protection Membership

Give the gift of peace of mind to the traveler in your life. A Global Rescue membership ensures your loved one is not alone when they board that plane, train or ship. In fact, they are traveling with a virtual team of experts — a paramedic, a translator, a logistics expert, an intelligence analyst and a security advisor. It’s like having a protective detail on standby, prepared to help when you need medical or security advice or a field rescue.

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Survey: Revenge Travel Continues Despite War; Riskier, Immersive Trips Increase

Travelers are taking more trips than ever, many seeking higher levels of adventure according to the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey.

More than 80% of the world’s most experienced travelers took as many or more trips in 2023 than at any time before the pandemic, according to the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey. More than a third of respondents (35%) said they traveled more in 2023 than any time before the pandemic. Nearly half (48%) said they traveled about the same amount and less than a fifth (17%) traveled less.

The enduring travel recovery is welcome news for the industry, as traveling continues to surpass pre-pandemic levels. “Adventure travel, luxury travel and other activity-focused segments continue to see strong growth. Many places are at capacity or are over-subscribed and have waiting lists,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services, and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Experts had predicted revenge travel could lead to crowding at popular destinations, limited flights and lodging availability. More than half of survey respondents (58%) did not encounter any sold-out occurrences for any of their trips. Nearly a third (30%), however, said they were prevented at least once from booking something because it was sold out. Fewer than a tenth (7%) said they missed out on a booking three times or more.

Despite rising travel costs, airline flight disruptions and travel staff shortages, most survey respondents (66%) did not cancel any trips in 2023, and more than a third (38%) did not postpone any travel plans. Fewer than 5% of survey respondents said they had to cancel at least one trip due to rising travel costs and fewer than a tenth (9%) had to postpone a trip.

A flock of seagulls flies low along the ocean shore during sunset.

Wartime Travel

Despite war and violent conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and Israel, close to half of the survey respondents (45%) said they would travel both internationally and domestically for the winter holidays between November 2023 and the end of January 2024, according to the survey. Nearly a third (29%) said they would travel domestically only, 11% would travel internationally only and 16% had no travel plans during that time.

“We’re seeing an understandable increase in traveler concern worldwide, but it is the most pronounced in the Middle East,” Richards said. “Nevertheless, international trip takers continue to gain comfort with wartime travel. We’ve seen this traveler behavior since the war in Ukraine and we’re seeing it today following the attack on Israel,” he said.

Travel uncertainty generally increases traveler demand for emergency medical and security services. “We’ve seen a 33% increase in traveler purchases of security services since the armed conflict between Israel and Palestinian terrorist groups started,” Richards said.

Medical staff wearing pink jumpsuits give a patient a shot while she sits in her car.

Vaccines

According to the survey, the world’s most experienced travelers revealed diverse behaviors when it comes to technology designed to improve airport check-ins, security processing and obtaining COVID-19 booster vaccinations.

More than half (58%) of survey respondents have already received an updated COVID-19 vaccination or plan to get one, which is consistent with the recommendation from U.S. and international official. Fewer than a third (29%) of respondents haven’t received a COVID-19 vaccination booster and do not plan to in the future. The remaining respondents (13%) are uncertain whether they will get a booster shot or not.

Vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers are equally as likely to travel internationally and domestically during the holidays between November 2023 and January 2024. “Travelers feel safe planning and taking trips and vacations regardless of their vaccination status,” Richards said.  ”Confidence in institutions recommending the vaccine and boosters has declined dramatically. We expect vaccine booster acceptance to continue to fall among travelers,” Richards said.

Technology

Air travel in 2023 was predicted to be up by nearly a third (29%), according to a report by Statista, and international travel may close out the year up by as much as 50%, according to the International Air Transport Association.

To help ease crowding and accelerate traveler processing, the U.S. TSA introduced the Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) system in 2019. More than two thousand CAT systems have been installed in more than 200 airports.

Based on survey results, travelers have mixed reports about the system. Nearly seven-out-of-10 respondents (69%) have not used the TSA’s CAT system, a fourth (23%) do not know if they have used it, and less than a tenth (8%) said they have used the system. Of those who used the system, about half (49%) said it sped up the security clearance process, 40% didn’t notice a difference, and the rest reported it took as long or longer than the previous system.

Installation of travel hub kiosks at airports and other transportation centers was designed to move travelers through the check-in and ticketing process faster. More than half of respondents (53%) have used the kiosks but nearly as many (47%) have not. Most (61%) said the kiosks sped up the check-in process, but 18% reported they would prefer to check in with a live agent. A minority (3%) said the kiosks were too complicated.

A Japanese temple high up on a hill overlooks a city with Mount Fuji in the background.

Riskier, Immersive Adventures

More than a third of survey respondents (34%) are planning to take more adventurous or riskier trips in the future. Most respondents reported that the possibility of travel restrictions in the future and the YOLO maxim – you only live once – drives them to get as much adventure travel in as possible before they no longer can.

“Travelers are exhibiting behavior consistent with a mounting desire for immersive experiences,” Richards said. Most travelers responding to the survey (65%) want to go to destinations they have never been to, while 17% want curated trips to new, unusual destinations where they can have completely new experiences. New Zealand, Australia, Antarctica, Iceland and Japan were the most frequently mentioned places survey respondents noted as bucket list travel destinations.

[Related Reading: Immersive Adventure Tourism]

“Revenge travel demand initially contributed to the growing adventure travel boom. We anticipate increasing interest in adventure travel like African safaris, hiking trips, camping excursions and motorcycle tours,” said Richards.

Not everyone, however, is seeking more risk or adventure in their travel itineraries. More than half of respondents are taking the same number of adventurous or risky trips since the end of the pandemic, reporting they enjoy the way they travel and do not see a need to change. More than a tenth (13%) said they would take fewer adventurous trips to minimize health and safety risks while traveling. Some reported they were scaling back their level of risk-taking after learning about high-profile disasters involving adventure travel.

With increasing desires for more risk and adventure travel coupled with elevated international war and violent conflict, most survey respondents welcome the technological advances like adding satellite connectivity to smartphone capabilities.

Most respondents (82%) said they would feel safer with satellite connection abilities on their smartphone. They liked knowing they could call for help if they lost cell coverage, even though only 13% said they had lost cell coverage in the past. Many liked the peace of mind it would give their friends, family or colleagues.

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Survey: Travelers Have Mixed Attitudes About Vaccines, Technology

(Lebanon, N.H. – November 13, 2023) The world's most experienced travelers revealed diverse behaviors when it comes to technology designed to improve airport check-ins, security processing and obtaining COVID-19 booster vaccinations, according to the Global…

(Lebanon, N.H. – November 13, 2023) The world’s most experienced travelers revealed diverse behaviors when it comes to technology designed to improve airport check-ins, security processing and obtaining COVID-19 booster vaccinations, according to the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey.

More than half (58%) of survey respondents have already received an updated COVID-19 vaccination or plan to get one, which is consistent with the recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization. However, almost a third (29%) of respondents haven’t received a COVID-19 vaccination booster and do not plan to in the future. The remaining respondents (13%) are uncertain whether they will get a booster shot or not.

Vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers are equally as likely to travel internationally and domestically during the holidays between November 2023 and January 2024, according to the survey. “Travelers feel safe planning and taking trips and vacations regardless of their vaccination status,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services, and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce. “Confidence in institutions recommending the vaccine and boosters has declined dramatically. We expect vaccine booster acceptance to continue to fall among travelers,” Richards said.

The U.S. Government has discontinued issuing new proof of COVID-19 vaccination cards. A few countries still require unvaccinated travelers to present negative COVID test results before entry, but most are designated by the U.S. Department of State as Level 4 – Do Not Travel regions, including Libya, Mali, Niger, South Sudan and Central African Republic.

The threat of other diseases also isn’t appearing to impact traveler behavior. When the Nipah virus, which has a fatality rate between 40% and 75% according to the CDC, broke out in India almost no survey respondents reported delaying, postponing or canceling a trip to the country or anywhere else.

Air travel in 2023 is predicted to be up by nearly a third (29%) compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to a report by Statista, and international travel may close out the year up by as much as 50%, according to the International Air Transport Association.

Nearly seven-out-of-10 respondents (69%) have not used the TSA Credential Authentication Technology, a fourth (23%) do not know if they have used it, and less than a tenth (8%) said they have used the system. Of those who used the system, about half (49%) said it sped up the security clearance process, 40% didn’t notice a difference, and the rest reported it took as long or longer than the previous system.

Installation of travel hub kiosks at airports and other transportation centers is designed to move travelers through the check-in and ticketing process faster. More than half of respondents (53%) have used the kiosks but nearly as many (47%) have not. Most (61%) said the kiosks sped up the check-in process, but 18% reported they would prefer to check in with a live agent. A minority (3%) said the kiosks were too complicated.

###

Contact Bill McIntyre at bmcintyre@globalrescue.com or 202.560.1195 (phone/text) for more information.

About the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey

About Global Rescue

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Preparing for Study Abroad in Wartime: A Parent’s Safety Checklist

A guide for parents whose students are pursuing international studies in a changing world.

Studying abroad used to be the go-to dream of students. A chance to explore the world where they could call the shots, finally untethered from their families an ocean away.

But in recent years, something has shifted. First it was the pandemic, and now, the world we thought was stabilizing feels on the brink. With major wars in Eastern Europe and the Middle East—both with global implications—a fraught relationship with China and major natural disasters, how do we navigate studying abroad?

This burden is especially hard on parents. While releasing your adult child out into the world always feels a bit daunting, it’s different these days. How do we put our minds at ease? What can we do to help ensure they come back safely?

The first step is to be prepared.

If you’re considering sending your son or daughter to study abroad, we recommend asking these questions first:

What will your child do in the event of political unrest, a terrorist attack or a natural disaster?

What will they do if they become seriously sick or injured?

How will family and friends get in touch with them in an emergency?

Is the country they want to visit a safe place for them? This question is especially true for students with a disability or a sexual orientation or faith practice that is less than fully embraced in their host country.

Considering the questions above, are there special precautions your child needs to take that are unique to them?

Asking these questions will help you and your child confront difficult what-if scenarios and establish a baseline of risk acceptance before you get too far into planning.

A smiling young man walks along a crowded city street with a backpack and headphones on.

Do’s and Don’ts of International Studies

If you and your child feel confident in the decision to study abroad after addressing the questions above, they should keep this list of international studies do’s and don’ts top of mind.

Do…

The U.S. Department of State recommends students do the following when taking a trip abroad:

…learn local laws and customs. If you’re studying abroad, you run a higher risk of being scammed if you don’t familiarize yourself with local customs. Doing so will help you keep a low profile and not attract negative attention.

…practice awareness while traveling. This is especially important if you’re a woman, LGBT+, are of a different race or have religious beliefs not predominant in the region. Read Global Rescue’s tips for travel awareness here.

…take time to learn about your destinations. Global Rescue’s destination reports provide up-to-date, comprehensive information for more than 200 countries.

…drink responsibly. If you drink, do so with people you know and trust. But be aware of how much you consume. Overdoing it makes you vulnerable.

…follow the social media accounts of the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate so you can monitor them if a local crisis occurs.

…enroll in the STEP program so the U.S. Embassy knows to contact you in the event of an emergency.

Don’t…

…just make friends with people from your own country. It can be tempting to stick with people who share your culture, but doing so would be missing out on a wealth of experiences and learning opportunities.

…be afraid to stay local. Some students book trips to other cities or countries every weekend of their time abroad. But doing so takes your attention away from the abundant cultural experiences your host town has to offer.

…treat your trip like a vacation. Remember that the country you’re visiting isn’t just for your entertainment. Treat it with respect, look for ways to give back and honor the local culture.

…stay hooked on your screen. Looking down at your phone all the time is not just a safety risk because it makes you unaware of your surroundings. It also keeps you from taking in the sites around you.

…keep up with home too much. It’s natural to feel homesick in a new country, but recognize that your time is short, and the more you acclimate to your new surroundings, the less homesick you will feel. And it will help to refrain from following every moment of your friends and family back home.

…try and impose your beliefs on the people you meet. At best they may view your behavior as rude for violating local norms; at worst they may report you to the authorities for possible violations of local laws. Always be respectful, comply with local laws and cooperate with law enforcement if confronted.

Three laughing college students sit and study outside on campus,

Global Rescue: The Ultimate “Do”

A Global Rescue membership is the ultimate “do” for any study abroad experience. Students can purchase memberships at discounted rates to put their minds at ease knowing that our medical, security and evacuation services will be there for their family if a crisis occurs.

The Davis family knows this well. As a 16-year-old international high-school student in China, Lily Davis contracted an awful stomach virus and began vomiting blood. Her membership quickly became invaluable.

Global Rescue’s medical team guided the family through the process, ensuring Lily got the right treatment and keeping her parents informed the entire time.

“Global Rescue personnel were on the phone with me constantly,” her father, Robert, said. “Global Rescue was also on the phone with the Chinese medical staff and with the director of Lily’s school. I’m a firm believer in Global Rescue.”

Daniela Shields’ daughter, Alli, unexpectedly found herself in the middle of civil unrest in Hong Kong in 2019. Thankfully, Global Rescue quickly arranged for Alli to fly back home and out of harm’s way.

“The specifics from Global Rescue made the difference,” Shields said. “I learned things about the Hong Kong protests from Global Rescue that I didn’t hear until the next day on the news. I felt like we were ahead of the eight-ball at every turn.”

The Davis and Shields families know firsthand that even with careful planning, the unexpected can happen.

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Pack, Prep, Prevail: How To Prepare an Emergency “Go Bag” for Traveling

A traveler’s guide to packing essentials that will increase your safety or chances of survival during a destination emergency.

Article Highlights

The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel alert due to increased global tensions and potential threats.
The alert follows recent attacks by Hamas and the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict.
Travelers should prepare a “go bag” with essential items for safety and survival.
Recommended items include emergency cash, first aid kit, communication devices, and water purification tools.

On October 19, 2023, the U.S. Department of State released an alarming travel alert:

“Worldwide Caution: Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the U.S. Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution.”

The call for heightened vigilance is in response to the October 7 attacks on Israel by Palestinian terrorist groups led by Hamas, and the escalating threat of wider violent conflict as the situation in Gaza and the region intensifies.

Preparing for Travel in Volatile

Given the expanding volatility of world travel resulting not only from the Israel-Hamas war but from the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and potential tensions over territory disputes in the South China Sea, business and leisure travelers alike should prepare for the possibility of a hasty departure on their next trip.

While having a travel protection service in place should be the first item on the to-do list, preparing a “go bag” for your next overseas trip should be second.

“Whether you’re traveling to a potentially dangerous region or already in one, preparing a go bag packed with key items will increase your likelihood of safety or even survival when it’s necessary to immediately relocate to a safer area or depart the region at less than a moment’s notice,” said Harding Bush, a former Navy SEAL and senior manager for security operations at Global Rescue.

In other words, if you have to drop everything and make a run for it, a go bag is full of things you’ll want with you.

21 Must-have Survival Items in Your “Go Bag” for Emergencies

Go bags don’t have to be anything fancy. In fact, given the situation during which you’d use it, it’s best to have one knowing that it’ll likely get pretty beat up, and possibly even left behind after evacuation. It should be small and light, like a knapsack, so you can grab it and go quickly, but also so that it can easily pack into a suitcase.

What should you include in your go bag? Think essentials for fire, food, water, communication, signaling, navigation, first aid, temporary shelter, identification, travel documents and cash.

We recommend packing these 21 items into your go bag (in alphabetical order):

Air Filtration Mask – An N95 mask is a respirator and, if worn correctly, will filter out the small respirable particles found in smoke.
Aluminum Cup and Water Bottle – Need to boil water? An aluminum cup will come in handy. Include a tough, lightweight plastic water bottle, like a Nalgene bottle, for water.
Clothing – Rain or warm weather gear based on your location.
Communication Device(s) – Most everyone has a cell phone. Consider a two-way satellite communication device, if permitted in the region you are visiting. Add in extra charging batteries. Remember, those devices may fail due to loss of charge or jamming. What’s left? A mirror and the loudest whistle you can find will alert search and rescue to your location. Add a small notebook with pencils.
Duct Tape – Use duct tape to stabilize a limb, patch a leaky tent, keep food bags closed, or twist into rope. Experts recommend bringing about 20 feet and wrapping it around your water bottle to minimize its size.
Emergency Blanket – Space blankets made of lightweight Mylar might be easier to pack and can double as a reflective device.
Emergency Cash and Backup Credit Cards – Keep a sufficient amount of emergency cash in both local currency and a widely accepted international currency. ATMs and banking systems may be inaccessible during or after an emergency. Additionally, carry backup credit or debit cards in case your primary card gets lost, stolen or compromised.
Emergency Contact Information – Carry a list of emergency contact numbers, including local authorities, embassy or consulate contact details, and the phone numbers of your loved ones back home. In the event of a disaster, communication networks may be disrupted, so having these numbers readily available can help you seek assistance and inform your family about your well-being.
First Aid Kit – A stripped down first aid kit would include essentials: a Sam splint, some Ace bandages and gauze pads of various sizes, a tourniquet and a compression device that could be a lifesaver when you need to stop the flow of blood. Remember to include adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment like Neosporin, lip balm like Chapstick and similar things for the smaller injuries that could get worse if left untreated.
Gloves – Consider your location and choose the most appropriate type of glove. Work gloves in case you have to move debris. Gloves should combine warmth, waterproofing, dexterity, durability and usability. Having an extra pair is always a good idea.
Hygiene Items – If space is limited, stash away some biodegradable face and body wipes. It will go a long way to help you keep your sanity if rescue is a day or so away. Second priority: a toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste.
High-calorie Food – Pack high-calorie food with a blend of protein, fat and carbs. Energy bars are a good choice like RX Bars or LARABARs. Bouillon cubes — either veggie or meat stock — have a two-year shelf life. You’ll be able to stay hydrated, have a small amount of nourishment, and the warmth of broth is a morale booster.
Light – A small, powerful flashlight with extra batteries. A headlamp is better since it leaves your hands free.
Lighter, Matches, Fire Starters – Fire for warmth, signaling and boiling water is essential. Pack multiple fire-making devices and store them in a waterproof bag.
Multi-Tools – You may have a multi-tool, like a Swiss Army knife or a Leatherman, but do you have a mealtime multi-tool? An eating utensil — used for cooking, eating or other useful purposes — should include a knife, fork, spoon, can opener or bottle opener.
Navigation Tools – No matter how well you know the area or terrain, mistakes can be made. Never leave shelter without navigation tools, including a GPS unit with cellular or satellite coverage, a map and a compass.
Paracord – Paracord (also known as 550 cord) is a must-have. It is versatile, lightweight and cheap. The uses are endless. Add 50 feet to your survival kit.
Rx and Over-The-Counter Medications – Include the over-the-counter medications you take regularly. Add a small supply of pain relievers, antacids or decongestants to your first aid kit.
Valid Identification and Travel Documents – Ensure you have your passport, identification and any necessary travel documents readily accessible. These documents are essential for identification, possible evacuation, and re-entry into your home country. Keep them in a waterproof and secure location, such as a sealed plastic bag within your travel bag.
Water – The American Red Cross recommends one gallon per person, per day. No one could carry that much with them, so you’ll want to have water treatment supplies to purify and filter water. You can boil water, use chlorine and iodine, or a UV light purifier.
Zip Lock Bags – Resealable sliding channel storage bags, like Ziploc bags, are a great way to keep items waterproof. GearJunkie lists all the uses for this versatile survival kit item: store toilet paper, keep electronics dry, organize snacks, keep fire starters dry/organized, pack out trash and catch rainwater. Just make sure the brand has a sturdy zipper and thicker plastic.

[Related Reading: Ultimate Travel Safety Kit]

These items are in addition to the standard travel essentials like appropriate clothing, toiletries and personal items. And if you’re asking how you’ll pack all of these go bag items and a knapsack into your suitcase, keep in mind that most are relatively small, light and flexible. Several of them can be purchased at your destination as well.

Go Bag Essentials Are Not All You Need

No matter how comprehensive you might think your go bag is, nothing beats not having to use the items in the first place. Avoidance is the best form of prevention. “It’s crucial to stay informed about local emergency procedures,” said Global Rescue’s Harding Bush. “Listen to instructions from local authorities during an international emergency. Taking these precautions will enhance your safety and preparedness when traveling internationally.”

If you’re planning a trip to a volatile region where international travel is still permitted, get in touch with Global Rescue to help equip you with up-to-date intelligence, and help ensure your safety and security, be it go bag prep or other precautionary preparations.

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Survey: Travelers Plan Winter Holiday Trips Despite War in Eastern Europe and Violent Conflicts in…

(Lebanon, N.H. – November 6, 2023) Despite war and violent conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, close to half of the survey respondents (45%) said they would travel both internationally and domestically for…

(Lebanon, N.H. – November 6, 2023) Despite war and violent conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, close to half of the survey respondents (45%) said they would travel both internationally and domestically for the winter holidays between November 2023 and the end of January 2024, according to the Global Rescue Fall Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey. Nearly a third (29%) said they would travel domestically only, 11% would travel internationally only and 16% had no travel plans during that time.

“We’re seeing an understandable increase in traveler concern worldwide, but it is the most pronounced in the Middle East,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services, and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce. “Nevertheless, international trip takers continue to gain comfort with wartime travel. We’ve seen this traveler behavior since the war in Ukraine and we’re seeing it today following the attack on Israel,” he said.

While COVID fears have plummeted, travelers are keeping up with vaccinations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization, according to the survey.

More than half (58%) of the world’s most experienced travelers surveyed have already received an updated COVID-19 vaccination or plan to do so. Less than a third (29%) haven’t and do not plan to while 14% are uncertain whether they will or not. News reports of the Nipah virus outbreak in India did not prompt any survey respondents to delay, cancel or postpone a trip to the region or anywhere else.

To speed up travel hub security lines, the U.S. TSA introduced the Credential Authentication Technology (CAT). Unfortunately, fewer than a tenth (9%) have used the system. The majority of respondents (91%) either have not used TSA’s CAT or do not know if they have used it. Of those who used the system, about half (49%) said it sped up the security clearance process, but the balance did not notice a difference or reported it took as long as or longer than the previous system.

Experts expect airport check-in kiosks to increase. Survey respondents appreciate the timesaving attributes of the kiosks, but others prefer personal interaction. More than half (53%) of respondents use travel hub check-in kiosks, but 47% do not. Most (61%) use the kiosks because they speed up the check-in process but 18% of them would prefer to check in with a live agent. An equal percentage (18%) reported that live agents are often unavailable and must use the check-in kiosks.

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Contact Bill McIntyre at bmcintyre@globalrescue.com or 202.560.1195 (phone/text) for more information.

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