travel alert bank

Do you need to set up travel alerts on your credit cards?

Whether you have two or 22 travel rewards credit cards in your wallet, chances are you enjoy hitting the road. Unfortunately, it can be extremely frustrating when your card gets flagged while traveling, and you're suddenly unable to use it. While it's great when an issuer correctly flags unauthorized account activity as fraudulent, the opposite is true when the issuer inadvertently prevents you from swiping a card.

Thankfully, most major issuers no longer require users to set travel alerts ahead of time.

In this guide, we'll walk through the details for different cards so you know what to expect before your trip.

What is a travel alert?

Before diving into issuer-specific guidelines, let's start with a quick overview of what a travel alert is and why this is important.

Most of today's credit cards have mechanisms to prevent fraud and abuse. When an issuer notices unusual account activity, it may flag it as potentially fraudulent. This happened to me when an unauthorized individual called Chase and inputted the full 16-digit account number of my Chase Freedom Unlimited. I immediately requested a new card, preventing the thief from actually using the compromised card number — a minor inconvenience but not a significant hassle.

However, this protection can also kick in if you try to use a card abroad or in an area of the U.S. that's far from your primary residence. Suppose you've spent months (or even years) swiping a card solely within a specific area and then you suddenly try to use it in another state or country. In that case, this activity might get flagged — and it could be a substantial roadblock to continuing your trip. If you haven't set up your cellphone to work abroad — or if you're in an area with limited service — there may be no quick way to let the issuer know that the purchase is (in fact) valid and authorized.

If you notify the issuer ahead of time, a sudden charge in another part of the country or the world (one that you specifically said you'd be visiting during the given time period) won't be flagged. This allows you to continue swiping your card and — most importantly — keep enjoying your trip.

So, how exactly do you do this? As noted above, many major credit card issuers no longer require proactive travel alerts ahead of time — but let's go through some of the largest ones.

Related: Best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees

How to set American Express travel alerts

Amex doesn't require you to set up travel alerts. In fact, if you log in to your account at AmericanExpress.com, you won't even see this as an option. Here's the rationale, per the issuer's FAQ page on the topic:

We use industry-leading fraud detection capabilities that help us recognize when our card members are traveling, so you don't need to notify us before you travel.

It does suggest that you keep updated contact information on your account and download the Amex app before your trip. However, you shouldn't have any trouble using your cards when traveling.

Applicable cards include: American Express® Gold Card , The Platinum Card® from American Express , Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card , The Business Platinum® Card from American Express .

How to set Bank of America travel alerts

Like Amex, Bank of America no longer requires travel alerts ahead of time. If you search in the Help & Support center, you'll see the following message:

You no longer need to let us know when you travel. We monitor your accounts and will send automatic alerts if we detect suspicious activity. Should you need us while traveling, call the number on the back of your card anytime.

TIP: It's important that your email address and mobile phone number are up to date on your account profile, so we can notify you quickly about unusual activity.

Note that this applies to both credit and debit cards associated with your Bank of America login, which can be nice if you're planning to withdraw money from an ATM using your debit card.

Applicable cards include : Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card , Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card .

How to set Capital One travel alerts

Capital One uses the same approach as American Express — you don't need to set these up in advance. When you log in to your Capital One account and click on the "I Want To…" button, you'll see what appears to be an option to set a travel notification. However, when you click on it, you'll receive the following message:

With the added security of your Capital One chip card, travel notifications are no longer needed on your credit card. That's right! You don't have to tell us when and where you're traveling, inside or outside the United States. Your credit card is 100% covered for fraud while you're traveling and we will alert you if we see anything suspicious.

You're covered by $0 Fraud Liability on unauthorized charges. Remember that none of Capital One's credit cards impose foreign transaction fees for purchases made abroad.

Applicable cards: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ), Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ), Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ), Capital One Spark Miles for Business (see rates and fees ).

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

How to set Chase travel alerts

Chase offers a wide variety of valuable credit cards, including many that you may want to use when traveling. Like previous issuers on the list, you no longer need to proactively set up travel notifications ahead of your trip. When you log in to your Chase account, you'll still see the "Travel notification" option under account services, but here's the message you'll find there:

We've got you covered! With our enhanced security measures:

• You don't need to set up travel notifications anymore.
• We'll send you fraud alerts if we see any possible identity theft.
• We'll alert you if we notice any suspicious behavior on your account.

Applicable cards include: Chase Sapphire Reserve® , Chase Sapphire Preferred Card® , World of Hyatt Credit Card , United℠ Explorer Card , Aeroplan Credit Card® , Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card .

How to set Citi travel alerts

Unlike previous issuers, Citi still allows you to set up travel notifications on your credit cards. Here's how to do so:

BRIAN KELLY/THE POINTS GUY

• Log in to your account at citi.com
• Hover over "Services" at the top, then click on "Travel Services"
• Click on "Add a Travel Notice"
• Select the applicable cardholders, enter your dates, then click "Next"
• Review the details, then click "Confirm"

Note that you don't even need to select the individual destination (or destinations) you're visiting. The only required pieces of information are the cardholders who'll be on the trip (including authorized users ) and the dates of the trip.

Applicable cards include: Citi Strata Premier℠ Card (see rates and fees ), Citi Rewards+® Card (see rates and fees ), Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees ).

What if a travel alert doesn't work?

Unfortunately, even the advanced technology credit card issuers use nowadays isn't guaranteed. There may be certain instances where a legitimate transaction is flagged as potentially fraudulent, especially when traveling. Alternatively, an issuer may require an extra verification step before approving a purchase instead of being declined immediately. This especially applies to many online transactions thanks to 3D card security measures .

This is one reason why it's critical to have updated contact information on file with your card issuers and a working mobile phone when you're outside the country. This ensures that you can complete any verification requests in a timely fashion.

It's also critical to always have at least one backup credit card in your wallet when traveling (or load alternate options into your mobile wallet ). Ideally, this card would be from a different card issuer and work with a different payment network, which minimizes the chance that neither card will work.

Related: Best travel credit cards

Bottom line

From full flights to weather delays to traffic, travel can be stressful — and that's without any financial issues. Fortunately, most major credit card issuers no longer require advance travel notices on your accounts. However, you should still carry at least one backup payment method in case your primary card is declined. It's also critical to have a working phone number to receive email or text notifications when things go wrong.

If you want to maintain your ability to swipe your favorite travel rewards credit cards on your next trip, follow these instructions before you depart.

• ATM locations
• ATM locator

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Knowledge base, how do i add, edit, or delete a travel notification on my card.

If you're traveling anywhere within the United States, there's no need to let us know. We'll continue to monitor your account for fraudulent activity. 

If you're traveling internationally and expect to make charges, let us know ahead of time through digital banking. You can:

• Add the notification(s) as much as 90 days before your travel date.
• Edit or delete notifications as many times as you'd like.
• Add multiple trips or destinations, as long as the dates for each don't overlap.

Letting us know you're traveling internationally will helps us protect you against potentially fraudulent activity.

How to add travel notifications using Online banking

• Choose an account from your dashboard then select the Account services tab. 
• Select Travel notifications from under Alerts & notifications .
• Choose  Add a trip  or if there's a previously entered notification you want to modify, select  Edit trip  or  Delete trip.
• Enter another country, then choose Add to include up to five destinations. 

How to add travel notifications using the U.S. Bank Mobile App

• Open the main menu then select  Manage cards.
• Select the card you'll be traveling with, then  Travel notification.
• Select  Add trip,  or if there's a previously entered notification you want to modify, select  Update trip  or  Delete trip.
• Select + Add destination to up to five countries.  

More information

If you have any questions, please call us. We accept relay calls. 

• Debit cards: 800-USBANKS (872-2657)
• Consumer credit cards: 800-285-8585
• Business credit cards: 866-485-4545

Please be aware transactions in the following countries cannot be approved due to current sanctions:

• North Korea
• Burma (Myanmar)

To freely explore our digital banking services without using your own account, visit our  Digital Banking Simulators  page. If you'd like a step-by-step tutorial on how to use a specific service or feature, check out our  Digital Explorer  page.

We'll Be Right Back!

The Travel Sisters

How to complete a bank of america travel notice online.

by The Travel Sisters | Mar 12, 2017 | Credit Cards | 1 comment

One of the things I do before I travel, is to let my banks that issued my credit or ATM cards know that I will be traveling abroad.  While you can call your bank, some banks make it easy to quickly notify them of your travel plans online. Fortunately, Bank of America has an online travel notification form which makes it really easy to let them know of your travel plans.

When Should You Notify Bank of America of Your Travel Plans?

According to BofA, a travel notice can be set no more than 60 days prior to departure and can last for up to 90 days from the first day of your trip. Also, you can only have one travel notice set at a time.

While I usually complete travel notifications only when traveling internationally, the form also allows you to notify Bank of America when traveling to another state in the US. If you will be charging a lot of things on your credit card, it does not hurt to take a minute to complete the form.

How to Set Up a Bank of America Travel Notification Online 

Log into your bankofamerica.com account and hover your mouse over “Help & Support” on the top right.

You will see a few options – click on “Set Travel Notice” and the Travel notification form will come up.

If you click on “Help & Support” you can reach the travel notification form either by clicking on “Set Travel Notice” under  “Common Topics” or by clicking under “Travel Information”:

Complete, the Travel Notice form. You can complete the form for either domestic travel or international travel. The form even has a box where you can provide details of your trip.

While some people don’t notify their banks before travel and they don’t have any issues, I always make sure to complete an online travel notification form online.  It only takes a minute and it is worth it to avoid getting your credit card declined in a foreign country.

Hello this Ysabel and Francisco Collado, we’re going to Europe and want to know we’re we can use atm in Rome to withdraws euro. Also let you guys know we’re goin away.

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Should you send a credit card travel notice?

April 25, 2024 | 3 min read

There was a time when credit card issuers and banks requested travel notices so they’d know when you’d be using your card while you were away from home. But that’s generally a thing of the past.

However, it’s still helpful to double-check that your contact information is up to date in case you need to be reached while traveling. 

Key takeaways

• A travel notice can help your credit card issuer or bank know when any transactions are made while traveling.  
• You may not need to notify your bank or credit card issuer of your travel plans, thanks to improvements in fraud detection technology and security. 
• You don’t need to alert Capital One of your travel plans, and your credit card is covered for unauthorized purchases if your card is lost or stolen. 1  
• It’s a good idea to make sure your contact information is up to date in case your bank or credit card issuer needs to reach you during your trip. You might want to also have your credit card’s contact information saved so you can easily refer to it if you need it.

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What is a credit card travel notice?

A credit card travel notice is a way for you to alert your credit card company about your upcoming travel plans. An advance notice tells your credit card company to expect charges from another city, state or country . But it’s not as common as it used to be to set a travel alert before you use your credit card abroad or somewhere different. 

Do credit card companies require a travel notice?

Many credit card companies, including Capital One, no longer request travel notices. They’re generally not necessary these days due to improvements in fraud detection technology and the added security of EMV chips and contactless cards . But if you need to contact your credit card issuer, you might want to make sure you have the contact information saved somewhere so you can easily refer to it.

How to notify a bank or issuer about your travel plans

If your bank or card issuer requires you to set a travel notice, you might do it online, over the phone or through an app. Check with your bank or card issuer to learn how it handles travel notices.

Capital One travel notices

There’s no need to tell Capital One about your travel plans—even if you’re traveling abroad. Just make sure the contact information associated with your account is up to date. That way, Capital One can contact you if there are any issues with your card.

Traveling with a Capital One credit card

If you’re a Capital One cardholder and your card is lost or stolen, you can instantly lock your credit card to prevent it from being used for purchases. 2 And if you find it, you can unlock it just as easily to use your card again. The card lock feature is simple to use and takes just a few taps on the Capital One Mobile app . 3

You’re also covered by Capital One’s $0 liability for unauthorized charges policy. If your card is lost or stolen, you won’t be responsible for charges you did not authorize. 1

Want even more peace of mind? Add your mobile phone number to your account to automatically get alerts if Capital One notices potential suspicious activity. Capital One will message you from the same number every time so you can be confident it’s Capital One texting you. 4

These are just some of Capital One’s credit card security features .

Credit card travel notices in a nutshell

Your credit card company or bank may not need to be notified before you take a trip. That’s because of improvements in fraud detection technology and security. If you choose to set a travel alert, you can usually do it over the phone, online or in your bank’s or credit card issuer’s mobile app. But it’s a good idea to check with your bank or card issuer to see if it’s necessary to set a travel notice. 

Are you looking for a card with travel benefits, security features and no travel notices required? A Capital One travel credit card could be right for you. Compare Capital One’s travel rewards cards today. 

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7 tips for using a credit card internationally.

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article | June 15, 2023 | 5 min read

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video | January 20, 2022 | 1 min video

How to Set Up Credit Card Travel Notifications

Putting a travel notification on your credit card may prevent a major travel headache.

Set Up Credit Card Travel Notifications

Getty Images

Travel notifications prevent a credit card issuer from flagging a purchase you make out of the country as fraudulent.

You might be ready for an upcoming trip, but is your credit card? Depending on your card issuer, you might need to set up a travel notification for your account.

Adding a card travel notification is easy. For most credit cards, you'll follow these steps:

• Call your credit card company, log in to its website or access its app.
• Share your travel dates and locations, if applicable.
• Submit and verify your travel notification.

This will help you avoid potential hassles and embarrassing situations when you're away.

What Are Travel Notifications?

A travel notification is essentially a setting you activate on your credit card account. "Basically, you're just telling the credit card issuer you're going to be using the card outside of the normal places you (use it). That way, they don't think someone stole your credit card," says Simon Zhen, research analyst at personal finance website MyBankTracker.com.

If you're on a road trip, you could make a card purchase in one town and then try to shop in another distant location but have your card rejected. Dan Hanks, senior vice president of credit card loyalty and servicing at PNC Bank, says if a transaction appears to be fraudulent, it may be declined, even if it is a legitimate purchase. Purchase location is just one factor credit card companies consider when flagging fraudulent transactions .

"If a customer suddenly starts using a card in a place they've never been, especially in another country, it doesn't mean we'll decline them, but it increases the chance we might stop the transaction if we think it's fraud," Hanks says.

Transactions may be marked as fraudulent and your card deactivated as a precaution, particularly if your issuer can't reach you to confirm them. If you only bring one credit card on your trip, you may have a major problem on your hands. Luckily, setting up a travel notification before you leave is an easy solution.

How to Set Up Travel Notifications

A travel notification usually requires you to provide your planned destinations and trip dates to your credit card issuer. With that information, the issuer has more knowledge to weed out fraudulent transactions from legitimate ones.

You usually have a few options to set up a travel notification. First, you can call the card issuer. "Look on the back of the card, and you can find the phone number to call. You just tell the customer service rep that you'll be traveling," Zhen says. If you prefer digital communication, you can typically set up a travel notification through the credit card company's website or app.

Each credit card company has its own travel notification policies. While many companies allow you to set up travel notifications, others may not need you to tell them about your travel plans. Below are the policies of major credit card issuers:

American Express does not request travel notifications, citing industry-leading fraud detection capabilities.

Bank of America allows you to create a travel notice up to 60 days before your trip, and it can last up to 90 days from the first day of your excursion. With one travel notice, you can set up multiple itineraries for various cards. You must provide Bank of America a contact number for when you're away from home. You can also supply details about where you'll be staying, any planned layovers and other information that may help the company monitor your account for fraud while you're traveling.

According to Barclays , a travel notification is not mandatory, but it could be wise to avoid declined purchases simply because you are traveling abroad or to a different part of the U.S. Contact the bank by phone, or access your account online or with the Barclays app to set up a notification. If you will be traveling for more than 365 days, connect with the bank by phone to set up a notification.

Capital One doesn't need notification of travel plans because of the added security of the bank's chip cards.

Chase lets you set up a travel notification up to a year before your trip. The notification can last up to 90 days. You can apply the notification to multiple cards simultaneously and list multiple destinations.

Citi permits you to add a travel notification up to 180 days before your journey and up to 89 days after your trip begins. You can set the notification for more than one card and report several destinations with one travel notification.

Discover advises setting up a notification before you embark on a trip abroad. Your travel start date can be up to 24 months in the future, and travel notifications can last up to 24 months.

PNC Bank suggests notifying it of the locations and dates of your planned travel to help eliminate phone calls to confirm your account activities. You can create travel notifications up to two years before you depart, and notifications can last up to 30 days. If your travel plans exceed 30 days, you can set up more than one travel alert.

USAA recommends a travel notification to reduce the chance of your card being blocked or flagged for unusual activity. You can set up a notification up to one year before your trip, and the notification will last up to one year from your departure. USAA does not request travel destinations.

U.S. Bank allows you to establish a travel notification for any trip within the next 90 days. Notifications can last up to 90 days. If your travel plans exceed 90 days, you can set up an additional notification at a later date.

Wells Fargo favors notification of when and where you plan to travel. Wells Fargo's travel notifications do not have any time-based restrictions, so you can set up your travel alert for as long as you'll be away and not have to set up subsequent ones.

Overall, setting up a travel notification doesn't have a downside for the customer, Hanks says. Making travel notifications easy to activate is in a credit card company's best interest. And notifications reduce the chance that a real transaction may be classified as fraudulent, which makes everyone happier.

Don't Forget About Debit Cards

"Some people set up a travel notification on a credit card but forget to set one up on their debit card," Zhen says.

While credit cards offer many protections that can be useful when traveling, especially abroad, some people may still plan to use their debit cards. If you do, make sure you set up a travel notification on your debit cards, too, so your purchases on those cards don't get flagged as fraudulent transactions when you're on your next trip.

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Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

Credit Card Travel Alerts: How to Set Them (and Why You Might Not Need To)

When you’re planning for a trip, especially an international one, you already have a huge to-do list.

You need to confirm your hotel plans, pack, check-in for your flight, and plan your activities for once you land.

The last thing that you want to happen when you arrive is to have your credit card declined.

Card issuers are constantly watching for fraud and taking steps to block scammers from using your card without your permission.

One common tactic is watching for unexpected changes in the location where you use your card. If you travel somewhere and use your credit card, your card issuer could decline it because they think s fraudster stole your card info.

Is there anything that you should do or a way to tell your card issuer when you’re traveling to make sure they don’t block your credit card?

What Are Credit Card Travel Notifications?

You can give your card issuer a credit card travel notification to help avoid having your card declined.

You’re telling your card issuer that you have travel plans, so it knows not to decline your card during your trip.

For example, if you live in Colorado and plan to fly to England, you’ll contact your card issuer and tell them when you plan to leave and when you plan to return. If the card issuer sees charges from stores in England during your travel dates, it will know they’re legitimate.

Some card issuers let you provide travel notifications through your account portal on the issuer’s website.

Usually, you’ll find the option somewhere in your account settings or personal information page.

However, things have changed:

Many card issuers don’t request, require, or even accept travel notifications anymore.

They rely on other methods to anticipate upcoming travel plans.

Why You Might Not Need to Set Them Anymore

Card issuers use multiple strategies to figure out when your traveling, even without providing a notification.

You booked travel on the card

One way that card issuers can tell if you’re planning to travel is based on your shopping habits.

If you book tickets for a flight using your credit card, your card issuer already knows that you have travel plans.

This is also true if you use your credit card rewards points to book your trip.

Since your card issuer can tell that you have travel plans based on your purchases, you don’t need to tell them about your trip.

The location of your card activity

A more subtle way for the card issuers to figure out your travel plans is based on other purchases you make.

You buy something at the airport just before you leave, your card issuer can probably guess that you’re about to get on a flight.

If your shopping habits change to include shopping at stores that people frequently use to prep for a trip that can also tip off your card issuer.

You're a frequent traveler

Card issuers also use your long-term purchase and travel history.

As a frequent flier, your card issuers probably expect you to travel on a regular basis and won’t worry about charges popping up from around the globe.

Travel Alerts for Top U.S. Card Issuers

Here are how some of the top card issuers in the US let you set travel notifications.

American Express

American Express doesn’t require travel notifications.

You don’t have to contact the company before you travel, but if you want to, you can do so by calling the number on the back of your credit card.

Bank of America

Bank of American doesn’t require travel notifications.

The bank does offer a set of advice for people travelling internationally on its website.

If you want to notify Bank of America of your travel anyway, you can do so by calling the number on the back of your card.

Capital One

Capital One says that you do not need to inform the company of travel plans because it now issues chip-based credit cards.

If you still want to let the company know, you can call the number on the back of your card.

Chase accepts travel notifications from its cardholders through its website .

You can set the notification up to a year in advance, making it easy to set the notification when you book your flights.

To set your travel notification:

• Sign in to your account and open the menu on the left side of the screen.
• Open your profile and settings
• Select more settings, then travel
• Click update
• Provide information about your destination, departure date, and return date

You can also call the company to set up your travel alert.

Citi lets you set up travel notifications through your online portal . 

To set the alert:

• Visit the travel alert page
• Click Set Up/Manage and sign in to your account
• Select your card and click “add a travel notification”
• Tell Citi who will be using the card, where they’re going, and the dates of travel

You can also reach out to Citi by calling the number on the back of your card.

Discover does not require travel alerts from its customers, but you can always call the number on your card to let them know anyway.

Make Sure Your Contact Info is Up to Date

While it’s always important to make sure that your card issuer has your contact information, keeping your contact info up to date is doubly important when you’re traveling.

Your credit card issuer might not contact you frequently, but one of the times that they’ll want to reach out is when they’re trying to verify whether a purchase is legitimate or not.

If you’re traveling and your card is declined, you may receive a call from your card issuer asking you whether you tried to make the purchase.

If you say yes, they can unblock your card instantly -- letting you complete the transaction.

This can save a lot of time compared to you having to call the card issuer, navigate a phone tree, wait on hold, and explain that you were the one trying to make the purchase rather than a fraudster.

Taking a few minutes to update your contact info with all your card issuers before you travel can save you some headaches down the road.

It’s also a good way to make sure that your contact info is current so your card issuers can reach you, even when you aren’t traveling.

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Simple ways your mobile banking app can help make travel easier.

Mobile banking can help you plan trips and even lighten your stress load on the road. In fact, the Chase Mobile ® app can work with you at every stage of your trip: from seeding the idea to heading back home. You could think of it as your Chase travel buddy. Useful features include safety measures, alerts and even ways to use points for booking a trip. Let’s explore how the Chase Mobile ® app could become your best travel-planning partner.

What is a credit card travel notice?

Credit card travel notices were once synonymous with alerts you sent to your credit card company to let them know you’re traveling and that your charges may not be similar to your everyday purchases. Customers could (and still can at some banks) send this notification by phone, through email or on the bank’s mobile app. But now, many banks, including Chase, no longer require travel notices from customers.

Setting up alerts on Chase Mobile ® app?

You can choose from several available alerts. For example, Chase offers alerts for the following account events:

• Transactions of many kinds
• Balance transfer or payment postings
• Low balance (according to your chosen setting)
• Available credit limit
• Payment due dates

You can set up your alerts in a few simple steps on your mobile device:

• Sign into the Chase Mobile ® app
• Click "Profile & settings," and tap "Alerts"
• Select "Choose alerts" then pick the account you wish to include
• Customize options under "Delivery methods"
• Hit “Save” and now you're enrolled

It’s also up to you how you'd like to receive these alerts: either by email or text. Delivery of alerts may be delayed for various reasons, including service outages affecting your phone, wireless or internet provider; technology failures; and system capacity limitations.

How to book travel in the Chase Mobile ® app

The Chase Mobile ® app can also help plan and book your trip from the very start with eligible Chase credit cards with Ultimate Rewards. When you get an urge to travel, check out the Benefits tab. You’ll find it by navigating to the bottom of the app. Once there you can explore Travel and Chase Ultimate Rewards ® . Let’s run through how that can work for you.

Booking with the Chase travel portal

Tap into the Chase travel portal by clicking the travel icon at the top. There you can do the following:

• Update your travel profile and preferences.
• Find out your current reward points total.
• Book flights.
• Reserve hotel rooms.
• Set up car rentals.
• Scan destination guides.

Your Chase reward points could fit right into these travel planning steps. It’s all-in-one travel booking at your fingertips. Even when you’re not ready to commit to a single destination, the Chase travel portal offers inspiration and tips for that next trip on your horizon.

Helpful mobile app features

There are some additional Chase Mobile ® app features that may help ease your mind while on your trip. For instance, there’s no need to get lost looking for an ATM— the Chase Mobile ® app shows you ATM and branch locations near you. Here are a few more examples where the Chase Mobile ® app can come in handy:

• Digital wallet: Through the mobile app, you can add your Chase cards to your mobile wallet of choice. This feature can help you travel light and worry less about losing your physical wallet or credit cards. It allows easy access to the account and credit cards you select for contactless payments on the go.
• Chase QuickDeposit ℠ : Deposit checks right on your phone, with Chase QuickDeposit ℠ . You can choose which account to fund and all it takes is a picture of the check front and back to get your deposit started from any location.
• Pay bills: Even if you almost forget to make a payment while sipping a margarita in the sunshine, your bills don’t have to get in the way of a good time. As long as you have phone service, the Chase Mobile ® app can help you pay bills and transfer money just about anywhere with Chase Online Bill Pay .

The Chase Mobile ® app can help with every stage of your travel planning for nearly any adventure. Whether it’s a trip to the shore on the weekend or Bali on summer break, your Chase travel portal offers handy alerts and even ways to use rewards and book a trip. Check out how the Chase Mobile® app can help get you where you want to go.

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If you’ve planned a vacation before, you know firsthand how stressful the planning process can be. Between booking hotels, flights and excursions, planning a vacation can feel like a full-time job. American travelers spent an average of 8 hours and 44 minutes reviewing travel content and resources ahead of their trips and read up to a whopping 277 pages of information on average, according to a 2023 survey from Expedia Group and Luth Research .

The time commitment behind planning a vacation could be one of the factors driving the 14 percent year-over-year increase in travelers who are likely to use a travel advisor, as reported by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) . Working with a travel agent could save you time and money when planning a complex vacation, but alternatives like online travel agencies, and credit card concierge services could be more affordable. So which option is better — doing your own legwork and booking trips online or hiring a travel agent?

What travel agents do

Travel agents help plan and book travel for vacations, special events or group trips, but their jobs have evolved over the years, particularly in the post-pandemic world.

“In the past, travel agents were very transactional — able to book your flights, hotels, and tours. While that is still a service we provide, in a post-pandemic world, travelers are looking for more,” says Annie Jones, travel advisor and owner of Telos Travel , “They want to think less, have options personalized to their interests, and experience destinations in a more authentic way.”

These days, travel agents advise on multiple aspects of a trip to create a bespoke travel experience. Their role can include:

• Regional tours and experiences
• Cultural etiquette
• Developing a custom itinerary
• Finding exclusive deals, amenities and offerings
• Handling emergencies and changes
• Organizing travel insurance
• Booking transportation (airfare and ground transportation)
• Making restaurant reservations
• Booking hotels, cruises and excursions
• Arranging necessary travel documents and visas

To reflect the expansions on a travel agent’s role, the American Society of Travel Advisors officially transitioned the title to “travel advisor” in 2018. Some of the best travel advisors even earn certifications and attend trainings to continue their education and stay on top of industry changes.

Do you have to pay a travel agent?

The cost of using a travel agent varies wildly, since there are different types of travel agents and travel advisors. In the past, many travel agents’ services were free, as they earned a commission off the trips they booked paid out by the airlines and hotels. Some still are.

However, after the pandemic, when many businesses in the travel industry struggled to recover (along with the changing landscape of travel agents in general) kickbacks from these vendors became less common. According to a survey by Travel Weekly , 71 percent of travel agencies in 2023 charged some form of service fee for working with them. These days, there are three main ways travel agents get paid:

• Flat rate fee
• Hourly rate

Travel agents may charge a percentage ranging from five percent to 15 percent of the trip’s cost. Others may charge a flat rate, anywhere from $100-$500 on average. Some advisors charge an hourly rate to research, plan or arrange your trip. Agents may also ask for a deposit that’s returned once you take your trip or goes towards the total cost.

Although hiring a travel advisor might seem expensive, it could potentially save you money. Paying a travel agent $200 to save you $400 on airfare or obtain a cruise upgrade worth $600 means you’re still coming out on top.

“I think one of the biggest misconceptions out there is that it’s more expensive to book through a travel advisor,” Jones shares. “While most advisors do charge professional service fees, just like you would to a financial planner or lawyer, the actual cost of your trip is no different than if you were to book it on your own.”

To better understand the cost of working with a travel agent, ask about their fee structure to determine if their price feels fair for your budget.

Are travel agents influenced by commissions?

That depends on how your travel agent gets paid. Even though it’s declined in recent years, many travel agents still collect at least part of their earnings from commissions paid by hotels and other travel products.

When there’s a commision tied to each travel booking, travel agents benefit monetarily from what you buy which makes it hard to be unbiased. As such, those commissions will likely influence which vacation packages and options you’re provided. However, that’s not to say that there aren’t travel agents who put your preferences and must-sees at the forefront of their planning process.

Money tip: You may find less of a hard sell on certain travel packages if your travel agent charges a flat fee or a percentage of your total trip. But this could mean a higher out-of-pocket cost. Consider their fee structure and how your agent approaches travel planning as you decide who to work with.

Can a credit card concierge replace a travel agent?

The short answer is… sort of. Many of the best travel credit cards offer concierge services that help cardholders organize travel, accommodations and tours, and they even help when emergencies or travel problems arise. But not to the extent a travel agent might go to.

“Many of my clients are surprised I offer 24/7 support while they are traveling,” says Jones. “If they face an unexpected challenge, I’m there to help resolve the problem or answer their question so they can just focus on enjoying their vacation.”

Complimentary concierge services can take the place of a travel agent on some aspects of your trip. While concierges can help you cross small items off your to-do list, they typically won’t plan a full trip itinerary for you.

• For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers Platinum Card Concierge , through which their agents help you purchase event tickets, make dining or spa reservations and handle general travel inquiries.
• Cardholders of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card now have free access to PRIOR , a program providing insider destination advice and curated experiences.
• Those with Chase Sapphire Reserve® can use the Visa Infinite Concierge, which can help reserve sports events, dining or even Broadway tickets.

In some cases, concierge benefits seem vague, so it’s worth calling or emailing to ask if they can help with your specific issue or need. However, in most circumstances, they probably won’t be able to plan and book an entire curated vacation for you.

If you’re booking travel on your own and simply want to lighten the load, then concierge services might be the way to go. However, if you want a fully customized itinerary without the legwork and within budget then a travel agent is your best bet.

Should you use a travel agent?

The decision to use a travel agent depends on a few factors and is closely intertwined with your preferences, budget and type of trip.

Travel advisors are particularly helpful when planning complex travel. Their connections and expertise come in handy for corporate, group, luxury or special-occasion travel, which could make it worth their fee. Advisors are also helpful when you’re not experienced with vacation planning or have time commitments preventing you from planning. In those cases, having a travel advisor could be a win.

Ask yourself a few questions to determine if it’s the right choice for you.

• Does this trip require a lot of planning (i.e. corporate, group, anniversary or highly-specific travel)?
• Are you looking for unique experiences, tours or upgrades?
• Are you experienced in booking your own travel or designing your own vacation itinerary?
• Do you have the time to dedicate to travel planning?
• Are you visiting a location and culture you feel comfortable navigating on your own?

For less complex travel where you’re on a tight budget, you might consider using resources already at your disposal like the credit card concierge service on an existing credit card or booking through an online travel agency (OTA) like Expedia or Kayak.

Travel advisors offer their experience, expertise and connections to take the stress out of planning a vacation. When you want to spend less time planning, get access to exclusive experiences, or need someone to create a vacation you couldn’t imagine planning on your own, a travel agent could save the day.

Pros of using a travel agent

Still not sure whether a travel agent would be worth the cost? Some additional advantages of using a travel agent as opposed to planning your trip yourself include:

• Saving money . According to a survey by Condor Ferries, travel agencies can save customers an average of $452 per trip through promotions and deals from suppliers that average travelers don’t have access to.
• Expert planning on important trips. Whether it’s corporate travel, a honeymoon or a 50th anniversary trip, you’ll want it to be impeccably planned.
• Help with trip disruptions. Many travel agents offer 24/7 support before, during and after your trip to help with any challenges or changes that arise.
• Upgrades, benefits and extras . Travel agents have connections the general public doesn’t. Their connections and partnerships may get you hotel upgrades, VIP treatment, connecting rooms, free breakfast or other perks.
• Curated experiences . A destination expert might find you experiences you never have discovered on your own, like an insider, after-hours visit to Cambodian ruins or a vintage car rental in Italy.
• Extensive vacations . You need expert destination knowledge to plan a cruise to Antarctica, a hiking trip to Bhutan or a two-month-long Galapagos expedition. If you want all the bells and whistles and money is no object, a travel agent may be able to get you into the most coveted hotels, tours and spots.
• You’re a beginner or don’t have time . Beginners planning a DIY vacation can easily get overwhelmed. The time it takes to plan a trip can also take time away from your other responsibilities. Travel agents make the process easy.

Using a travel agent doesn’t mean you’ll get a vacation that’s just like everyone else’s. Travel agents use the details of your personal preferences, budget and needs to customize your experience. Some of them even specialize in particular destinations or have relationships with hotels and tour guides which could help you get room upgrades, better rates or VIP experiences.

“These relationships not only allow for special treatment, but upgrades are nice, right? After all, you can’t VIP yourself! In addition to perks, these relationships also allow us to have high-level contacts in the event something should go wrong or a client needs assistance… These are things you are not going to get if you DIY.” — Mandy Pullin Luxury travel advisor of six years with DPP Travel

Some travel advisors have even developed specific travel niches.

“I’m seeing advisors specialize more than they did in the past,” explains Adeline Kuroki, a travel advisor and owner of Savor & Soak Travel Co. “I think this is great for travelers… For example, some advisors will specialize in luxury travel, and make it their mission to visit and understand the pros and cons of luxury resorts all over the world.”

When you have an advisor who’s an expert on one location, you get more curated experiences too. Kuroki specializes in travel to Japan and helps clients navigate the complexities of booking in such a popular destination.

“I can quickly tell them which experiences need to be booked well in advance to avoid missing out, and which can be decided on closer to their travel dates. And as Japan becomes an increasingly popular tourist destination, I’m able to recommend and book more off-the-beaten-path locations that offer a lot of the same sights and experiences as more well-known places.”.

So even with developments in online bookings and credit card concierge services, travel advisors are irreplaceable when it comes to designing a personalized itinerary in a destination with which you’re unfamiliar.

Cons of using a travel agent

While there are many benefits to using a travel agent, there are also disadvantages to consider. Some of those include:

• Not redeeming points or miles. If you have credit card points or airline miles to cash in, a travel agent might not be the best fit since they typically can’t help you redeem them for the trips they plan. However, niche advisors can best advise you on booking using your points and miles or use your stash to book for you.
• Less flexibility to make updates. Once your travel agent locks in reservations, it can be difficult to change things since you may have put down a deposit.
• Added layer of communication. For your travel agent to plan a vacation you’ll enjoy, you have to clue them in on your likes and dislikes, budget, preferences, needs and more. And when you need to make adjustments, you’ll have to go through them.
• Missing out on planning your own trip. Planning your own trip is exciting for some folks. Plus, you can build the exact type of experience you want at a price point that’s comfortable for you.
• Fees and price. Travel agents can save you money sometimes, but it comes at a cost that might not fit into your budget. Some agents charge high fees or percentages of the total vacation cost.
• Finding the right agent. It can take time to find the right travel agent, advisor or expert. If it takes too long, DIY travel might be more convenient.

Do you earn rewards on travel booked by an agent?

You might be hard-pressed to find a travel advisor where you earn rewards by booking through them as opposed to your credit card’s travel portal . However, it’s worth noting that the merchant code for travel agents is often “travel”, which means the travel agent fees you pay through a qualifying rewards credit card could be eligible for bonus points if your card offers boosted rewards on the travel category.

Certain travel benefits still work for you even if a travel agent books your trip. For example, you’ll get lounge access if your credit card offers it regardless of who booked your airfare, which airline or class you’re flying. As long as you use the appropriate card to pay for the trip, it shouldn’t matter if you or the travel agent physically made the purchase.

You might also earn frequent flyer miles through an airline’s loyalty program if your travel agent can include your frequent flyer number on your reservation. You’ll also still have your airline elite status recognized if a travel agent booked your airfare for you, but you may or may not get hotel loyalty brand points. The same goes for recognition of your hotel elite status . It’s best to discuss this directly with your agent or call the hotel to confirm, as each case may be different.

Keep in mind: American Airlines announced in February 2024 it plans to limit which tickets purchased via third parties are eligible to earn AAdvantage frequent flyer miles. The details were still vague at the time of publishing, but it could mean that your ticket purchased by a travel agent would still earn miles – assuming they purchase through a qualifying site or directly on American’s site – but if you go the DIY route for your trip and purchase online through a third-party site, you may not earn miles at all.

The bottom line

Choosing to use a travel agent or book vacations online ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget and the type of trip you’re planning. Opting for online booking might be quicker and more cost-effective, but the personal touch and stress-free approach provided by a travel agent can’t be overlooked.

The days where travel agents just booked your flight and hotel are long gone. Today, they offer bespoke itineraries tailored to your interests and budget while specializing in certain destinations or forms of travel. Taking the time to find and build a relationship with a reliable travel agent could save you money on your next trip even if there’s a fee involved. But it’s still important to weigh the pros and cons to know if hiring a travel agent is right for you.

Article sources

We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.

Expedia Group: The Path To Purchase . Expedia Group. Accessed on Feb. 5, 2024

ASTA’s 2023 March Consumer Research Headlines . ASTA. Accessed on Feb. 5, 2024

Fees By The Numbers. Travel Weekly. Accessed Feb. 13, 2024

Travel Agency Statistics 2023 . Condor Ferries. Accessed Feb. 5, 2024

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Russia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 5, 2023, russia - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to remove COVID-specific information and the kidnapping risk indicator as well as updates to security risks.

Do not travel to Russia due to the unpredictable consequences of the  unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces , the potential for  harassment and the singling out of U.S. citizens for detention by Russian government security officials , the  arbitrary enforcement of local law ,  limited flights into and out of Russia , the  Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Russia , and the possibility of  terrorism .  U.S. citizens residing or travelling in Russia should depart immediately.  Exercise increased caution due to  the risk of wrongful detentions.

The U.S. government’s ability to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Russia is severely limited, particularly in areas far from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, due to Russian government limitations on travel for embassy personnel and staffing, and the ongoing suspension of operations, including consular services, at U.S. consulates.

There have been numerous reports of drone attacks, explosions, and fires in areas in Western and Southern Russia, particularly near the Russian border with Ukraine, as well as in Moscow and St. Petersburg. In the event of an emergency, U.S. citizens should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately.

In September 2022, the Russian government mobilized citizens to the armed forces in support of its invasion of Ukraine. Russia may refuse to acknowledge dual nationals’ U.S. citizenship, deny their access to U.S. consular assistance, subject them to mobilization, prevent their departure from Russia, and/or conscript them. 

U.S. citizens should note that U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia, and options to electronically transfer funds from the United States are extremely limited due to sanctions imposed on Russian banks. There are reports of cash shortages within Russia.

Commercial flight options are extremely limited and are often unavailable on short notice. If you wish to depart Russia, you should make independent arrangements as soon as possible. The U.S. Embassy has severe limitations on its ability to assist U.S. citizens to depart the country and transportation options may suddenly become even more limited. Click  here  for Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia.

U.S. Embassy personnel are generally not permitted to travel on Russian air carriers due to safety concerns.  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) downgraded the air safety rating for Russia from Category 1 to Category 2 on April 21, 2022, due to Russia’s Federal Agency for Air Transport noncompliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards.  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over those areas of the Moscow Flight Information Region (FIR), the Samara FIR (UWWW) and the Rostov-na-Donu (URRV) FIR within 160NM of the boundaries of the Dnipro (UKDV) Flight Information Regions. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

The right of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are not consistently protected in Russia. U.S. citizens should avoid all political or social protests and not photograph security personnel at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who have participated in demonstrations and there are numerous reports Russian nationals have been detained for social media activity. 

Country Summary:

U.S. citizens, including former and current U.S. government and military personnel and private citizens engaged in business who are visiting or residing in Russia, have been interrogated without cause and threatened by Russian officials, and may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. 

Russian security services may fail to notify the U.S. Embassy of the detention of a U.S. citizen and unreasonably delay U.S. consular assistance. Russian security services are increasing the arbitrary enforcement of local laws to target foreign and international organizations they consider “undesirable.”

Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on spurious charges, singled out U.S. citizens in Russia for detention and harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and convicted them in secret trials or without presenting credible evidence. Furthermore, Russian authorities arbitrarily enforce local laws against U.S. citizen religious workers and have opened questionable criminal investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Russia to perform work for or volunteer with non-governmental organizations or religious organizations.

There have been multiple security incidents in southwestern Russia related to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. The Russian government declared martial law in Russia’s regions bordering Ukraine (Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, Krasnodar) on October 20, 2022. The martial law regime allows the rapid introduction of restrictive measures such as curfew, seizure of private property, restriction of entry/exit and freedom of movement, internment of foreigners, forced relocation of local residents, and restrictions on public gatherings. U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to these areas.

Recent legislation has expanded the ability of Russian authorities to detain, question, and arrest individuals suspected of acting against Russia’s interests, including posts on personal social media accounts, engaging with foreign and international entities, discrediting the Russian state or military, as well as advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ persons.

Terrorist groups, both transnational and local terrorist organizations, and individuals inspired by extremist ideology continue plotting possible attacks in Russia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs and systems, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Travel to the North Caucasus (including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus) is prohibited for U.S. government employees and strongly discouraged for U.S. citizens.

The international community, including the United States and Ukraine, does not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya – that Russia has purported to annex more recently. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in these areas. Russia staged its further invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea, and Russia is likely to take further military actions in Crimea, and the four other Ukrainian oblasts are the subject of intensive fighting. There are continuing abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s authority.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continues to provide consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya, although the ongoing conflict severely restricts the Embassy’s ability to provide services in these areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Russia.

If you decide to travel to Russia:

• Familiarize yourself with the information on  what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas .
• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Monitor local and international media for breaking events and adjust your contingency plans based on the new information.
• Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Russia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

FCDO advises against all travel to Russia

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

FCDO advises British nationals against all travel to Russia due to the risks and threats from its continuing invasion of Ukraine. The situation in Russia is unpredictable. This includes:

• security incidents, such as drone attacks, happening in some parts of the country
• lack of available flights to return to the UK
• limited ability for the UK government to provide consular assistance

There is also a high likelihood that terrorists will try to carry out attacks, including in major cities. See ‘Safety and Security’ section .

Security situation in Russia

The Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. There are reports of drone attacks and explosions in areas in western and southern Russia, particularly near the Russian border with Ukraine, Moscow and St Petersburg.

Political rallies and demonstrations can take place in Moscow, St Petersburg and across Russia. Check the local media for the latest information. Be vigilant and avoid any political demonstrations or gatherings.

The situation remains unpredictable and could escalate without warning.

Leaving Russia

FCDO advises British nationals to consider leaving Russia.

If you do not need to be in Russia, we strongly advise you to consider leaving.

You cannot fly directly from Russia to the UK or through EU countries. Commercial flight options are limited and can sell out quickly. Check with your airline or travel provider.

British nationals should exercise extreme caution at all times. Travel within or out of Russia is at your own risk.

You cannot fly direct from Russia to the UK or through EU countries. There are limited commercial airlines with indirect flights via the Middle East, Serbia and Turkey. Check the latest information with your airline or travel provider.

Land borders may be busy. Be prepared for a long wait to exit Russia. You may also be questioned at the border. During periods of unrest, check the local media for updates on the situation before travelling.

Road border crossings between Finland and Russia will be closed until at least 11 February 2024. Consult the  Finnish border guard website  for up-to-date information. Further changes may be announced at short notice.

Some European countries have restricted or banned the entry of vehicles registered in Russia, this includes:

If you plan to drive a vehicle registered in Russia into Europe check that you are eligible to do so.

Some bus companies have international routes. The situation may change quickly. From 18 November 2023, Finland will restrict entry at some road border crossings (See ‘Travelling from Russia to Finland’). Check these companies for availability of buses, timetables and tickets:

• Ecolines – buses to Riga (Latvia), Tallinn (Estonia), Vilnius (Lithuania) and other destinations in Europe
• Baltic Shuttle – buses from St Petersburg to Tallinn (Estonia)
• Lux Express – buses from St Petersburg to Riga (Latvia), Tallinn (Estonia)

Travelling from Russia to Latvia

Check the travel advice for Latvia .

See the Latvian government website for information on crossing the border.

Travelling from Russia to Finland

Check the travel advice for Finland .

Road border crossings between Finland and Russia will remain closed until further notice. Consult the  Finnish border guard website  for up-to-date information. Further changes may be announced at short notice.

The border crossing points for maritime traffic at Haapasaari, the port of Nuijamaa and Santio will be closed to leisure boating from 15 April until further notice.

The train service from Russia to Finland is no longer available.

Travelling from Russia to Estonia

Check the travel advice for Estonia .

See the Estonian police and border guard website for information on crossing the border.

From 1 February 2024, it is not possible to cross the border by vehicle via the Narva-Ivangorod crossing point, whilst construction works take place on the Russian side. The crossing is open to pedestrians.

Travelling from Russia to Lithuania

Check the travel advice for Lithuania .

If you’re planning to cross into Lithuania by road from Kaliningrad oblast at the Kybartai border crossing point, see the Lithuanian state border crossing website .

Travelling from Russia to Norway

Check the travel advice for Norway .

Staying in Russia

If you decide to stay in Russia, you should:

• keep your departure plans under constant review
• ensure your travel documents are up to date
• follow local media
• stay alert to security warnings and follow the advice of local authorities
• take cover in buildings or underground and avoid windows in the event of drone attack
• sign up to email alerts for Russia travel advice

Read FCDO advice on what to do if you’re affected by a crisis abroad and how to prepare.

Support for British nationals in Russia

The British Embassy in Moscow and British Consulate Ekaterinburg are open, but the situation could change at short notice.

In person consular support in Russia is limited. It is very limited in parts of Russia because of the security situation and the size of the country, particularly in the North Caucasus.

If you need consular assistance, call our 24-hour helpline +7 495 956 7200 and select the option for consular services for British nationals.

Contact the Russian emergency services on 112.

Dual nationals

Dual British-Russian nationals are treated as Russian nationals by local authorities. The consular support FCDO can provide is severely limited. If you are arrested or detained, Russian authorities are unlikely to allow us consular access.

In 2022, Russia declared a partial mobilisation of Russian citizens to join the military forces. Military recruitment continues. Anyone with a Russian passport could be conscripted.

In August, Russian law was amended to stop Russian nationals eligible for military conscription from leaving Russia from the day their draft notice appears on the federal electronic conscription register.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Invasion of ukraine.

• UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals
• Move to the UK if you're coming from Ukraine
• Homes for Ukraine: record your interest
• Find out about the UK’s response

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Is it safe to travel to France? The latest advice

T he French government has raised its terror alert to the highest possible level, “emergency”, following the terror attack in Moscow that left more than 135 people dead.

French prime minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken “in light of the Islamic State’s claiming responsibility for the [Moscow] attack and the threats weighing on our country”.

France’s terror threat system has three levels. The highest level is announced if there is a terrorist attack in France or overseas, or if an attack on French soil is considered to be imminent.

France was already on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, with the Paris Olympics and Paralympics due to take place in the capital this summer.

The updated terror alert comes just days before the UK Easter school holidays, when thousands of British holidaymakers will travel across the Channel for a getaway.

What is the Foreign Office advice for France?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) France advice, which was last updated on February 20, reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

“Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities,” the FCDO adds.

The FCDO lists shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship as settings where “indiscriminate” terrorism attacks could take place.

Check the France FCDO page for the latest advice.

What happened in the Moscow terror attack?

On Friday, terrorists carried out an attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow, killing at least 137 and injuring 140.

Four men, all of whom are citizens of Tajikistan, have been formally charged with committing a group terrorist attack. The attack has been claimed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) group.

On March 7, the United States warned its citizens in Russia that extremists had “imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow” and specifically mentioned concert venues. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings.

What should I do if I get caught up in a terrorist attack?

Britain’s counter-terrorism police gives advice on what to do in the event of an emergency . This includes to run to a place of safety: “This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.” To hide: “It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.” And to tell: “Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112.”

Have there been recent terrorist attacks in France?

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France over the past decade. In January 2015, eight cartoonists, two guests and two police officers were murdered at the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo . The gunmen identified as belonging to al-Qaeda.

In November that year, in the deadliest terrorist attack in French history, 131 people were killed and 413 were injured in a series of shooting and grenade attacks at the Bataclan music venue, near the Stade de France and at several restaurants and bars across Paris. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks.

In July 2016, 86 people were killed and 434 injured in Nice after a 19-tonne cargo truck was driven into crowds during Bastille Day celebrations on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Again Islamic State claimed responsibility.

What if I want to cancel my trip to France?

If you have booked a package holiday to France and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to France, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

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Israel-Gaza latest: Hamas responds to ceasefire proposal - as Netanyahu casts doubt on deal

Joe Biden announced a surprise plan with three phases: the first would be a six-week ceasefire, the second the return of remaining hostages, and the third a reconstruction plan for Gaza. We'll be bringing you all the reaction to this throughout the day.

Sunday 2 June 2024 07:16, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• US President Joe Biden announces new ceasefire and hostage deal proposal
• Hamas views latest proposed deal 'positively'
• Israel's conditions for ending the war have not changed, Netanyahu's office says
• Chances of ceasefire 'not that realistic', expert says  
• Egypt making 'intensive efforts' to resume negotiations - report
• Israeli opposition leader urges Netanyahu to take deal - and says he will prop up government
• Explained: What is in Biden's three-phase plan?
• Analysis: Israel seemed blindsided by Biden announcement
• Live reporting by Emily Mee

We will be focusing on our general election coverage tomorrow, but we'll be back with more live updates on the Israel-Hamas war next week. 

Models Bella and Gigi Hadid are collectively donating one million dollars (£785,000) to support relief efforts, according to their agent. 

The money will go to Heal Palestine, Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF), World Central Kitchen (WCK), and United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

The sisters have frequently been vocal in their support for Gaza, and their father Mohamed Anwar Hadid is himself Palestinian. 

After Hamas's 7 October attack on Israel, Gigi, 29, offered her condolences to those affected.

"My thoughts are with all those affected by this unjustifiable tragedy, and every day that innocent lives are taken by this conflict - too many of which are children," she wrote on Instagram.

"I have deep empathy and heartbreak for the Palestinian struggle and life under occupation, it's a responsibility I hold daily."

She added: "While I have hopes and dreams for Palestinians, none of them include the harm of a Jewish person."

Bella, 27, said in May that she was "devastated at the loss of the Palestinian people and the lack of empathy coming from the government systems worldwide".

The United Nations food agency has said it is unable to feed most civilians in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. 

Only 27,000 people in Rafah are currently being reached by the World Food Programme (WFP), according to its local director Matthew Hollingworth. 

Roughly one million Palestinians are living in the area, many of them displaced from other parts of Gaza. 

"The sounds, the smells, the everyday life are horrific and apocalyptic," Mr Hollingworth told journalists. 

"People sleep to the sounds of bombing, they sleep to the sounds of drones, they sleep to the sounds of war, as now tanks roll into parts of central Rafah, which is only kilometers away. And they wake to the same sounds." 

A ceasefire proposal consisting of three phases has been outlined by Joe Biden. 

What do those phases entail, what have Israel and Hamas said about the plan and how does it compare to the last proposal?

Read more below...

The French president has backed the ceasefire proposal set out by Joe Biden last night. 

Emmanuel Macron said he supported the proposal for "a durable peace" and that the war "must end". 

France is also working with partners in the region on "peace and security for all", he said. 

A high-level official has said Egypt is undertaking "intensive efforts" to "resume negotiations" for a ceasefire and hostage deal, according to a report. 

The official, quoted by Al-Qahera TV, said this was "in light of the recent American proposition". 

Last night, Joe Biden detailed a ceasefire and hostage deal proposal that he said Israel had put to Hamas. 

However, Israeli officials have told our correspondents they were "blindsided" by the announcement. 

If it works, then this will be a smart and cunning diplomatic move.

If it doesn't then President Joe Biden will look foolish.

He knows the huge risk of once again being taken for a ride by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Few knew that he was due to make this announcement.

Read more from our US correspondent Mark Stone below...

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has said 33 of its employees have been killed in Gaza since the war began. 

Of those, it said 19 were killed "while performing their humanitarian duties". 

The organisation today buried Mohammed Jihad Abed, an employee in the disaster risk management department. 

He was killed in an Israeli attack on his home in Rafah last night. 

American, Egyptian and Israeli officials will be meeting tomorrow in Cairo to discuss the reopening of Gaza's Rafah crossing, according to a report. 

Egypt is insisting that Israel withdraw its forces from the crossing, a high-level source told Egypt's state-linked Al Qahera TV. 

Israel seized the Gaza side of the crossing last month during its offensive in the city of Rafah. 

Earlier this week, a member of Egypt's security forces was killed in a shooting incident near the Rafah crossing.

An Egyptian soldier stationed on a watchtower had reacted to seeing an armoured vehicle carrying Israeli troops cross a boundary line near the border while the soldiers pursued and killed several Palestinians, two Egyptian security sources told Reuters news agency. 

The soldier opened fire and Israeli forces fired back, killing him, the sources said, sparking an exchange of gunfire between the two sides. 

The British prime minister has praised the proposed ceasefire deal set out by Joe Biden, saying it is "welcome news". 

Rishi Sunak said he hopes Hamas "takes this opportunity to take this deal that is on the table, [and] that would ensure hostages can be released and be back with their families". 

He also expressed hopes to "flood Gaza with far more aid than has been getting in" and to "use that pause in the fighting to build a sustainable and lasting peace". 

Mr Sunak joins a growing group of world leaders expressing support for the deal, which will only put more pressure on Israel and Hamas. 

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