US Tells Tourists: Bring Wills, Keep Low Profile, Maybe Avoid Entire Planet
KEY POINTS
- •The US State Department classified 21 countries as 'do-not-travel' as of March 2026 due to terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.
- •Embassy operations have suspended in several countries like Afghanistan and Belarus, reducing the US government's ability to assist travelers in emergencies.
- •Experts noted risk perception varies by country, but advice for travelers includes staying low-profile, avoiding rebel areas, and preparing exit plans without government help.
As travel season looms in 2026, the US State Department’s top vacation tip for thrill-seekers: don’t come back. With 21 countries on their 'do-not-travel' blacklist — starring Afghanistan’s prize combo of earthquakes and kidnappings, Belarus playing uninvited Airbnb for Russian invasions, and Burkina Faso’s charming blend of coups and million-person displacements — the advice is basically 'bring a will, skip social media, and pack your survival instincts, maybe also a DNA sample.' Embassy closures mean America can’t even come rescue you, so travelers should plan an exit strategy without the luxury of a government Uber. Expert Alan Fyall confirms each country’s level of danger is subjective, which is code for ‘pick your poison wisely.’
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(1 of 3)Travel to these countries and your 'vacation memories' will mostly be Tinder bios describing your hostage survival skills. Spoiler: No embassy will flash a rescue filter.
If courage had a frequent flyer program, these 21 countries would be the platinum tier—because you’ll definitely need frequent exit plans.
US embassy shutdowns in these danger zones are basically public service announcements reading, ‘Good luck! Call us never.’
Source: Businessinsider | Published: 3/11/2026 | Author: Jenny McGrath,Kristine Villarroel
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