LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Tips

You should always know the cultural landscape in your destination, but it is especially important for LGBTQ+ travelers. Just because homosexuality may be legal in one country, does not mean it’s accepted by all of its citizens. Be sure to research broader cultural and security concerns, so that you have a thorough understanding of the location you plan to visit.

There is not “one size fits all” set of advice. Consider your own profile, as well as the sort of experience you want to have in your travels, and determine if a particular destination is right for you.

Make sure to extensively research and book all hotels ahead of time. Some places may refuse to let LGBTQ+ individuals stay with them. It’s best to check before you go.

Remember, some resorts or LGBTQ+ neighborhoods can be quite segregated and may require an LGBTQ+ couple to reserve a room with two beds instead of one in order to remain discreet or even to avoid legal action. Be aware that local residents may not approve of public displays of affection when you are in surrounding areas.

Prior to departure, check with your home country’s embassy or consulate in the destination you plan to visit. For example, the U.S. State Department recommends that all LGBTQ+ travelers carry custody papers for minor children traveling with them. If you are recently married or in the process of changing your name, review the change of name guidelines. When applying for a visa, there are some instances in which a married LGBTQ+ couple should apply for visas as single individuals rather than as a couple.

Transgender travelers may face additional scrutiny when departing from and arriving at airports and when navigating the cultural and legal landscape of a different country. For those who are in the process of or have completed a gender reassignment, review the identification requirements for gender reassignment applications. For U.S. citizens, consider enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and download the Smart Traveler App to have emergency information at your fingertips.

When traveling in a conservative country, you can easily become the target of hostility or a hate crime. It’s important to remember that not all countries have safeguards in place to protect the LGBTQ+ community and may even have laws against LGBTQ+ individuals. For instance, travelers should be particularly cautious in most African countries, as well as Iran, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia as you could face criminal charges if your sexual orientation is revealed.

Prior to travel, discuss the best plan of action with your employer should issues arise. Make sure you are provided with a designated contact that you can reach in the event of an emergency as well as the number to your company’s travel assistance provider.

Whether you’re strictly on business or tacking a few extra days onto your trip to relax, there are several resources available as you plan. The International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) is an organization that specializes in hotels and destinations that are safe for the LGBTQ+ community. They can also assist with the booking process if your company does not have an in-house travel agency.

Also, you can visit the well-known site, Out Traveler, for updated destination-specific information, hotels, and tips for your next trip.