Getting There: Be aware of any travel alerts and warnings for your destination. Travel alerts disseminate information about terrorist threats or other relatively short-term or transnational conditions that could pose risks and affect your travel plans. By enrolling in STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, you will receive updates and security announcements. This can be done through the http://travel.state.gov
website.
Travel Documents:
Not only are passports required for most travel, you should take a copy of your passport with you and leave one at home or with your travel agent. Leave copies of your itinerary at home so that your family knows where you are. Another tip is to scan all your documents and email them to yourself so they can be easily accessed if you are separated from your originals.
Emergency Preparedness:
Take contact information with you if you need assistance. Also leave emergency contact information at home for your family to be able to reach you. Vaccinations are required for some destinations. Check before you go and see your doctor before you leave.