These days the web is full of travel tips. You can find advice on pretty much anything relating to domestic or overseas travel and a lot of it is very useful.

However, one source folks may not remember to check before going overseas is the U.S. State Department website.

The travel tips they offer are the most important of all, because they may just save your life one day.

Here are the State Department’s tips for traveling abroad:

1. Register so the State Department can better assist you in an emergency
2. Sign passport and fill-in emergency information
3. Leave copy of itinerary and passport with family and friends
4. Check your overseas medical insurance coverage
5. Familiarize yourself with local conditions and laws
6. Take precautions to avoid being target of crime
7. Contact U.S. Embassies and Consulates in emergencies

For more information visit U.S. Department of State