Advice for Transgender and Non-Binary Travelers

The most important tool for transgender and non-binary travelers is knowledge. Thoroughly research your destination by seeking out information from official sources, travel experts and anecdotal reports.

Get to know the laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals in your destination, including any country-level legal protections. Anti-LGBTQ+ laws do not necessarily preclude you from traveling. However, you should carefully consider risks of entry/exit, the precautions you will need to take, the risks you will face during your travels and what you should do if you are detained or face harassment from local officials. Some countries have anti-LGBTQ+ laws that include restrictions on LGBTQ+-oriented written materials, mobile apps and websites. If traveling to these locations, individuals should delete apps, browsing history, photos and any personal information on social media accounts  and should avoid traveling with LGBTQ+-oriented books and other media.

Even if a destination does not have, or consistently enforce, anti-LGBTQ+ laws, cultural attitudes can impact your travel experience. In some cases, you may inadvertently cause offense or simply stand out as a foreign national, making yourself more vulnerable to crime. In other instances, acting outside of cultural norms may increase risks of discrimination, harassment or violence. Understand cultural attitudes and practices in your destination and how best to adhere to them so you can maintain a low profile.

Transgender and non-binary individuals face disproportionate levels of harassment and violence. In addition to researching general concerns such as crime, terrorism, civil unrest and political risks, seek information on incidents involving transgender and non-binary individuals. Again, make sure you focus on your specific travel plans and the places you intend to visit.

Research the general health risks in your destination and be aware that certain medications or medical treatments may be illegal, restricted or unavailable. In locations where laws or the cultural climate present concerns, some medications, medical devices and medical conditions can also prompt discrimination or harassment. Make sure you can legally enter your destination with your medications and medical devices, as well as how your specific medical conditions could affect your destination entry and medical treatment. Carefully research how legal and cultural concerns may have bearing on your interactions with medical professionals and the medical treatment you receive.

Research and planning are important, but it is just as important to travel confidently and know how to respond in a dangerous situation or an emergency.

Let a trusted contact at home know your itinerary and, if possible, enable location sharing on your phone. Always stay alert when you are traveling and avoid disclosing personal information to strangers. Know where the closest police stations and diplomatic facilities are in relation to your accommodations. In addition to taking general precautions such as avoiding isolated areas and not walking alone after dark, consider risks associated with your gender presentation and using public restrooms. If you are being followed or harassed, do not engage, and quickly remove yourself from the situation. If you are outdoors, seek refuge in the nearest busy establishment as soon as possible.

Connecting with the local LGBTQ+ community can be rewarding but risky, especially in countries with anti-LGBTQ+ laws. In some locations, using mobile apps and websites geared toward the LGBTQ+ community can pose a legal risk. Authorities may also raid LGBTQ-oriented businesses in countries with legal restrictions. Additionally, some individuals use social apps and websites to attack unsuspecting victims. If you are going to meet someone during your travels, only meet in public places, tell a trusted contact at home where you will be and who you are meeting and do not travel to a second location. Additionally, do not accept food or beverages from strangers, and never leave your food or drink unattended.

If you are a victim of a crime, local authorities may not have the manpower or resources to effectively respond. In some locations, harassment by officials can also be a concern. If the country in which you are traveling has a tourist police force, these units are often more responsive to travelers. Additionally, be sure to contact your nearest diplomatic facility to report the incident as well as any police harassment.