The European summer is a popular time for Australians to travel. Many head overseas to escape the cold or go on new adventures. This year, the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games add to the excitement.
While you chase sun and sport, it's important to be security aware. It's not fun to think about, but some risks are greater during this busy travel season, including:
Terrorism
Terrorism remains a threat across the world.
Terrorists can attack anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. Be prepared for the possibility, no matter where you go. Take extra caution in higher-risk destinations.
France and several other European countries have increased their terrorism threat ratings in the last year.
Terrorists use different methods of attack. They target both locals and foreign tourists. Many attacks have been by lone actors or small groups.
You may find increased security during the summer months, including at:
- Olympic and Paralympic Games venues
- shopping malls
- airports
- clubs, pubs and restaurants
- hotels, hostels and other accommodation
- places of worship
- transport hubs
- places popular with tourists
- major events and large crowds.
Before you go
- Research where you’re going before you book. Find out where there is a higher risk of terrorism. Read the travel advice for your destination and subscribe for updates.
- Check the advice level and understand what our advice levels mean.
- Decide if you feel safe travelling to your planned destination.
- Be aware of key dates and current affairs where you’re going.
While you’re travelling
- Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places or big crowds.
- Report anything suspicious to the police.
- Follow the news for any new threats.
- Take official warnings seriously.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities.
If there’s a known or suspected terrorist incident, leave the area as soon as it’s safe. If the incident isn’t near you, avoid the place where it happened. Monitor the media for updates.
Read our advice on terrorism.
Health
Extreme heat
Some northern hemisphere countries have extreme hot weather during summer. Summer is from June to August. If you're in the sun for too long, you could suffer from heat-related illnesses.
If you’re out in the heat:
- stay hydrated
- wear sunscreen
- wear loose, lightweight clothing
- seek shade when you can.
If you're unprepared, it can bring serious health risks. Check local weather forecasts. Take precautions when heat waves and high humidity are forecast.
Read our advice on severe weather.
Crime
Petty crime can increase during the mid-year travel season. Most of these criminals are opportunistic. This includes pickpockets and bag snatchers.
- Before you go, research your destination. Find out if theft, robbery and muggings are common in particular places.
- While you're away, keep money and valuables out of site.
- Stay alert in public places. Especially where there are lots of people, including other tourists.
Spiking, through drinks or needles, is a risk. Tourists, especially women, may be targeted by criminals. Before you go, know the symptoms of spiking.
While it's tempting to relax with a drink, go easy on the alcohol. Drunk and disorientated travellers are targets for criminals. Especially for robbery and assault.
Driving with alcohol in your system may void your travel insurance if you have an accident, as well as get you in trouble with local law enforcement. Check your policy details before travelling.
Read our advice on theft, assault, partying safely and local laws. Also, learn what to do if you're the victim of a crime overseas.
Cyber security
While you're on holiday, you might not be thinking about your cyber security. But getting hacked and having your personal information stolen can happen to anyone. Don't leave yourself vulnerable.
Protect your devices before you leave.
- Get a VPN.
- Have strict security settings on your devices.
- Use multi-factor authentication on all your accounts.
- Consider what you post on social media.
- Don't trust public networks or devices.
Read our advice on cyber security.
Scams
Scammers will use large-scale events like the Olympic and Paralympic Games to sell fake tickets or accommodation options. They can set up fake websites or ads that look real.
Before making payments or handing over personal details, check that the website is legitimate. Be extra careful with websites you access by scanning a QR code.
Read advice from ScamWatch on how to spot a product or service scam. Remember, if a ticket or booking price looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Read our advice on scams.
Where to get help
We list local emergency contact details under Local Contacts in the travel advice for your destination.
To contact the Australian Government in an emergency:
- call the nearest Australian embassy, high commission or consulate
- call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra on +61 2 6261 3305.
The Australian Government is limited in how and when it can help Australians overseas. It's important you understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter