As summer approaches, many people and families start planning their overseas vacations. However, if you’re considering traveling internationally, certain countries should be avoided due to safety concerns.

The U.S. has a “Travel Advisories” system in place to inform citizens about potential risks when traveling abroad. These advisories are categorized into four levels.

Level 1 is the mildest, indicating that travelers should “Exercise Normal Precautions.” These advisories are typically issued for popular tourist destinations such as Japan, Bermuda, and the Cayman Islands. The idea is simply to encourage travelers to be cautious and take standard safety measures while enjoying their trips.

Level 2 advisories, which advise travelers to “Exercise Increased Caution,” are issued when there’s a risk of crime, civil unrest, or occasional terrorism threats, but not an imminent danger.

Countries like Saudi Arabia, China, and Spain fall under this category. The warning is not meant to deter travel, but to remind travelers to remain vigilant.

A Level 3 advisory, suggesting travelers to “Reconsider Travel,” is issued when a country has been deemed dangerous due to ongoing crime, civil unrest, or terrorist threats.

This advisory applies to 23 countries, including Chad, Niger, Egypt, Jamaica, and Colombia, where the risks are considered higher.

The most severe warning, a Level 4, means “Do Not Travel.” This is the most serious warning issued for countries experiencing active armed conflict, severe crime, or other extreme threats to safety.

The U.S. currently lists 21 countries under this warning, including Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, South Sudan, and Yemen. These countries are considered too dangerous for U.S. citizens to travel to due to heightened risks such as violence and political instability.

The United States also has specific regions within certain countries that are considered unsafe for travel. In Mexico, states like Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas are all listed under the “Do Not Travel” advisory due to high levels of crime and the risk of kidnapping. Additionally, Gaza is on the list due to the ongoing armed conflict in the region.

If you’re planning to travel, it’s essential to stay updated with the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories and avoid destinations that could put you in harm’s way. Always prioritize your safety and make informed travel decisions.