Travel Emergency Guide

A quick-reference resource for when things don’t go as planned. Find step-by-step guidance organized by emergency type.

How to Reach Snow & Sand Vacations

Emergency Situations

If you are experiencing a medical or safety emergency, contact local authorities immediately

Dial 911 in the U.S. or the local equivalent abroad.

Find Emergency Number by Country

Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Travel Insurance

You may also want to reach out to your travel insurance company, which may be better suited to provide assistance in medical situations. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section below.

Urgent Situations (Bookings' Related)

We define an emergency as an unforeseen, time-sensitive disruption that prevents you from safely continuing your itinerary or accessing confirmed lodging (e.g., transit cancellations without carrier rebooking or denied entry to a hotel or access to an activity booked by Snow & Sand Vacations).

Please send a text to +1-312-780-1111.

  • Begin the message with the numbers 999 followed with a brief description of the situation. We will get back to you as soon as we are able.
  • See sections below on how to deal with the most common travel disruptions and emergencies in the event we are unable to connect with you right away.
  • In addition, look at the Customer Service information sections for each of the suppliers providing services on your trips. They all offer 24/7 service and can assist with the most common issues.

Non-Emergencies & Voluntary Changes

For standard requests such as adding a new activity, making a restaurant reservation, or general inquiries, please email hello@snowandsand.travelor text us at +1-312-780-1111.

These requests will be addressed during regular business hours. Voluntary itinerary modifications made after travel has commenced may incur additional service fees.

U.S. Department of State — Overseas Citizen Services

For U.S. citizens in a crisis abroad (arrest, death, missing person, or victim of a crime):
From the U.S. & Canada: 1-888-407-4747
From Overseas: +1 202-501-4444

Jump To Section

Medical & Safety
Logistical & Security
Travel Insurance Contacts
U.S. Government Resources
Emergency Numbers by Country

Medical & Safety Emergencies

Contact Local Emergency Services Immediately

Dial the local emergency number for your destination (see Emergency Numbers below). In the U.S., dial 911. In the EU, dial 112. Do not delay — minutes matter.

Move to Safety if Possible

If the situation involves an active threat (fire, violence, natural disaster), prioritize getting to a safe location before calling for help.

Notify Snow & Sand Vacations

Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider

Your travel insurance may coordinate medical evacuations, hospital referrals, and direct payment to facilities. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section for provider hotlines.

Keep All Documentation

Save all medical reports, receipts, prescriptions, and police reports. These are essential for insurance claims and follow-up care at home.

Source: U.S. Department of State — Bureau of Consular Affairs

Contact Your Insurance Provider Before Treatment if Possible

Many travel insurance policies require pre-authorization for non-emergency hospitalization. Call your provider’s 24/7 assistance line to coordinate care and confirm coverage. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Request an Itemized Bill

Before discharge, ask for a detailed, itemized bill in English (or request a translated copy). This is critical for insurance reimbursement.

Contact the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate

If you are a U.S. citizen and need help locating medical facilities or communicating with local hospitals, the embassy can assist. Find yours at usembassy.gov. They cannot pay your medical bills but can help coordinate with family and insurance.

Arrange Medical Evacuation if Necessary

If local care is insufficient, your insurance provider may arrange medical evacuation. Do not attempt to arrange this yourself without first consulting your insurer — costs can exceed $100,000.

Source: U.S. Department of State — Medical Assistance Abroad

Carry a Copy of Your Prescriptions

Before traveling, keep a photo or digital copy of all prescriptions including generic drug names (brand names vary by country).

Visit a Local Pharmacy or Clinic

In many countries, pharmacists can dispense limited supplies of essential medications. Bring your prescription documentation and a photo ID.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

Your travel insurance assistance line can help locate pharmacies or clinics that carry your medication and may cover the cost. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Contact the U.S. Embassy if Needed

For controlled substances or medications that are restricted in your destination country, the embassy can provide guidance on local regulations. Locate yours at usembassy.gov.

Source: CDC Travelers’ Health guidelines

Stay Hydrated

Drink clean, bottled, or boiled water. Oral rehydration salts (available at most pharmacies worldwide) can prevent dangerous dehydration.

Seek Medical Attention if Symptoms Are Severe

High fever, blood in stool, inability to keep fluids down, or symptoms lasting more than 48 hours warrant immediate medical attention.

Avoid Self-Medicating with Antibiotics

Unless prescribed by a licensed physician, do not take antibiotics for traveler’s diarrhea. Anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide may provide temporary relief for mild cases.

Document Everything

If you seek medical care, save all receipts and reports for your insurance claim.

Source: CDC — Travelers’ Diarrhea guidelines

Clean the Wound Immediately

Wash with soap and clean water for at least five minutes. Apply antiseptic if available.

Seek Medical Attention for Animal Bites

Any bite from a mammal (especially dogs, bats, or monkeys) should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately due to rabies risk. Post-exposure prophylaxis must begin as soon as possible.

Monitor for Allergic Reactions

Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or rapid heartbeat after an insect sting is a medical emergency — call local emergency services immediately (see Emergency Numbers below).

Protect Against Mosquito-Borne Illness

If bitten in areas with malaria, dengue, or Zika risk, monitor for fever, chills, or rash in the days following. Seek medical care promptly if symptoms develop.

Source: CDC — Animal & Insect Safety for Travelers; WHO Rabies Fact Sheet

Follow Local Authority Instructions

Comply with all evacuation orders and official guidance. Do not return to an area until authorities confirm it is safe.

Move to Higher Ground for Flooding or Tsunamis

If near the coast and you feel an earthquake or receive a tsunami warning, move inland and uphill immediately. Do not wait for official confirmation.

Shelter in Place for Earthquakes

Drop, cover, and hold on. Stay indoors away from windows. If outside, move away from buildings, power lines, and trees.

Register with the U.S. Embassy

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive alerts and enable the embassy to locate you in an emergency.

Contact Snow & Sand Vacations

Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Source: FEMA, U.S. Department of State STEP Program

If There Is Immediate Danger

If you or someone you are with is in immediate danger of self-harm, contact local emergency services right away (see Emergency Numbers below).

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S. Number)

U.S.-based travelers can call or text 988 from a U.S. phone number. The Crisis Text Line is also available — text HELLO to 741741.

Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider

Many policies include access to telehealth services, including mental health support. Call your provider’s 24/7 assistance line. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Reach Out to Your Embassy

U.S. embassies maintain lists of English-speaking mental health professionals in most countries. Locate yours at usembassy.gov.

Source: SAMHSA, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Contact Local Authorities Immediately

Local police and medical personnel will need to be involved. A death certificate will be issued by local authorities.

Contact the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate

The Bureau of Consular Affairs can assist U.S. citizens with the repatriation of remains, notification of next of kin, and coordination with local authorities. Call the 24/7 line: from the U.S. & Canada 1-888-407-4747; from overseas +1-202-501-4444.

Notify Your Travel Insurance Provider

Many policies cover repatriation of remains, trip interruption due to death of a travel companion, and emergency travel expenses for family members. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Contact Snow & Sand Vacations

Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Source: U.S. Department of State — Death of a U.S. Citizen Abroad

Logistical & Security Emergencies

Contact the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate Immediately

The U.S. Department of State can issue an emergency passport or limited-validity emergency travel document. Locate the nearest embassy at usembassy.gov.

File a Police Report

Many embassies require a local police report before issuing a replacement document. Request a copy of the report for your records.

Bring Supporting Documents

If available, bring a photocopy of your passport, a government-issued photo ID, passport photos, and proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate). A digital copy on your phone is helpful.

Contact Your Airline

Inform your airline of the situation. They may be able to accommodate rebooking while you wait for a replacement travel document.

Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider

Your policy may cover expenses incurred due to a lost or stolen passport, including additional accommodation and transportation. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Source: U.S. Department of State — Emergency Passport Services

Call Your Bank or Card Issuer Immediately

Report the loss to freeze your account and prevent unauthorized charges. Most major banks have 24/7 international collect-call numbers printed on their websites. See the major U.S. issuer hotlines below.

Major U.S. Card Issuer Hotlines (24/7)

American Express

Chase

Bank of America

Citi

Capital One

For other issuers, look on the back of a spare card or the issuer’s website for their 24/7 international collect-call line.

File a Police Report

A police report is often required to dispute fraudulent charges and for insurance claims.

Request Emergency Cash or a Replacement Card

Many banks can issue emergency cards or wire cash transfers to local branches. Western Union and MoneyGram also offer international transfers.

Notify Your Travel Insurance Provider

Your policy may reimburse emergency expenses incurred as a result of stolen financial instruments. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Monitor Your Accounts

After returning home, review all statements carefully and report any unauthorized transactions within the timeframe required by your card issuer.

File a Police Report

Document the loss or theft with local authorities and request a copy of the report.

Use Alternative Identification

A passport (or emergency travel document from the embassy) can serve as primary identification in most countries. Keep a photocopy or photo of your driver’s license as backup.

Contact Your State DMV

Most U.S. state DMVs can process a replacement license request online. Some can mail a replacement to your home address for when you return.

Notify Your Rental Car Company

If you have an active car rental, inform the provider. An International Driving Permit (IDP) or passport may serve as temporary identification depending on local laws.

File a Police Report for Documentation

This is often required when filing an insurance claim and can also help in recovering stolen items. Do this as soon as possible and request a copy for your records.

Secure Your Financial & Digital Accounts

If your wallet, passport, or phone is missing, contact your bank, credit card provider, or mobile carrier immediately to prevent unauthorized use.

Replace Essentials Locally & Keep All Receipts

Your travel insurance may reimburse the cost of necessary clothing, toiletries, or temporary replacements for lost items. Save all receipts for your claim.

File a Claim with Supporting Documents

When you’re ready, submit your claim along with the police report, receipts, and any other proof of ownership or loss. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.
 

Notify Snow & Sand Vacations

Let us know, we want to help. Send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able. We will do everything in our power to assist with rebooking, accommodations, and itinerary adjustments.

The information in this guide is provided for your reference so you can take immediate action in the event we are unreachable at the exact moment of the disruption.

Contact Your Airline Immediately — Use the In-App Chat

The fastest way to resolve most flight disruptions is through the airline’s mobile app chat or website — not the customer service line at the airport. While other passengers wait in long lines, you can often be rebooked from your seat in minutes. If chat is unavailable, call the airline’s rebooking hotline (see Major Airline Contacts below). Many carriers will rebook you on the next available flight at no charge when the disruption was caused by the airline.

Know Your Rights — Set Realistic Expectations (U.S. Flights)

U.S. passenger protections are limited compared to other regions. Knowing what you are — and are not — entitled to lets you skip lines for benefits that may not be granted, and focus your energy on rebooking and recouping costs through insurance.
  • Automatic refunds (still in effect): You are entitled to an automatic cash refund to your original form of payment if your flight is canceled or significantly changed (3+ hours domestic / 6+ hours international) and you choose not to travel; if your checked bag is significantly delayed (12+ hours domestic / 15–30 hours international); or if paid ancillary services (Wi-Fi, seat selection) are not provided.
  • No federal cash compensation for delays: Unlike the EU, there is no U.S. federal requirement that airlines pay cash compensation for delayed or canceled flights beyond the ticket refund.
  • Meals & hotels are discretionary: Hotel vouchers, meal vouchers, and rebooking amenities remain at each airline’s discretion. Check the DOT Airline Customer Service Dashboard to see what each carrier voluntarily commits to providing.
  • EU & UK flights: Regulation EC 261/2004 (and the UK equivalent) may entitle you to cash compensation and care for cancellations and long delays on EU/UK-departing flights — well worth pursuing when applicable.

Keep All Documentation

Save boarding passes, delay/cancellation notices, and receipts for meals, accommodation, and ground transportation. Your travel insurance trip-delay and trip-interruption benefits often cover what the airline will not.

Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider

Trip delay and trip interruption benefits may reimburse meals, lodging, and other expenses when delays exceed a specified number of hours — frequently a faster path to recovery than airline negotiations. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Major Airline Contacts (24/7 Reservations & Customer Service)

Whenever possible, use the airline’s mobile app or website chat first — it is typically the quickest route to a rebooking. Phone lines are listed as a backup.

United States
Canada
Europe
Latin America & Caribbean
Asia & Pacific
Middle East & Africa

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation — Airline Consumer Protections, Automatic Refund Rule (April 2024), DOT Airline Customer Service Dashboard; EU Regulation EC 261/2004; airline customer service pages.

Contact Snow & Sand Vacations

If your accommodation was booked through us, contact us immediately — this qualifies as an emergency if it is after hours and you have no place to stay. Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Request Written Documentation

Ask the hotel to provide written confirmation that they are unable to honor your reservation, including the reason.

Request the Hotel Arrange Alternative Accommodation

In most jurisdictions, a hotel that overbooks is obligated to arrange comparable or upgraded lodging at their expense.

Document Everything

Take photos of any correspondence, keep receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses, and note the names of hotel staff you spoke with.

Ensure Everyone's Safety First

If there are injuries, call local emergency services immediately (see Emergency Numbers below). Move vehicles out of traffic if it is safe to do so.

Contact Local Police

A police report is typically required by the rental company and your insurance. Do not leave the scene before authorities arrive.

Document the Scene

Take photos of all vehicles involved, damage, license plates, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with other parties.

Contact the Rental Car Company

Report the accident to the rental company as soon as possible. Follow their specific accident procedures, which are usually outlined in your rental agreement.

Notify Your Insurance Providers

Contact your travel insurance provider and your credit card company (if you used a card with rental car coverage). Do not admit fault at the scene. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Notify Snow & Sand Vacations

We want to know so that we can help with itinerary adjustments, alternative transportation, and coordination with your other bookings. Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Request to Contact the U.S. Embassy Immediately

Under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, you have the right to have the U.S. Embassy notified of your arrest. Insist on this right.

Do Not Sign Documents You Do Not Understand

Do not sign any documents in a language you cannot read. Request an interpreter and legal counsel.

Contact the U.S. Department of State

Family members in the U.S. can call 1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. & Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (from overseas). The Bureau of Consular Affairs can provide a list of local attorneys and monitor your welfare.

Understand That Local Laws Apply

U.S. citizenship does not exempt you from the laws of the country you are visiting. The embassy cannot get you out of jail, but they can ensure your rights under local law are respected.

Source: U.S. Department of State — Arrest of a U.S. Citizen Abroad

Contact Local Police

File a report as soon as possible. Request a written copy of the report — you will need it for insurance claims and any legal proceedings.

Seek Medical Attention if Needed

If you were physically harmed, go to the nearest hospital or clinic. Your safety and health come first.

Contact the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate

Consular officers can help you find local medical care, contact family members, arrange emergency financial assistance, and provide a list of local attorneys. Locate yours at usembassy.gov.

Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider

Many policies cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and trip interruption resulting from being a victim of a crime. See the Travel Insurance Contacts section.

Contact Snow & Sand Vacations

Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Source: U.S. Department of State — Victims of Crime Abroad

Avoid the Area

Do not go to protest sites or areas of unrest, even as a bystander. Situations can escalate rapidly and without warning.

Monitor Official Channels

Check the U.S. Department of State travel advisories at travel.state.gov and follow local news sources. Enroll in STEP for real-time alerts.

Stay in Your Accommodation if Instructed

If local authorities or your embassy advise sheltering in place, comply. Ensure you have water, food, and phone battery.

Contact the U.S. Embassy

If you feel your safety is at risk, contact the embassy for guidance. In extreme situations, the U.S. government may organize evacuations for citizens.

Notify Snow & Sand Vacations

Once you are safe, send a text to +1-312-780-1111. Begin your message with 999 followed by a brief description. We will respond as soon as we are able.

Source: U.S. Department of State — Crisis Abroad

Travel Insurance — Provider Contacts

24/7 Emergency Assistance

From the U.S.: 1-888-228-9792
From Overseas (collect): +1-603-328-1707

Claims

File claims online at travelexinsurance.com or call the number above for guidance.

What They Can Help With

Emergency medical referrals, medical evacuation coordination, trip interruption assistance, lost luggage help, and emergency travel arrangements.

24/7 Emergency Assistance (Allianz Hotline)

From the U.S.: 1-800-654-1908
From Overseas (collect): +1-804-281-5700

Claims

File claims online at allianztravelinsurance.com or call for assistance.

For other issuers, look on the back of a spare card or the issuer’s website for their 24/7 international collect-call line.

What They Can Help With

Medical referrals and monitoring, hospital admission guarantees, medical evacuation and repatriation, prescription assistance, and emergency cash transfers.

24/7 Emergency Assistance

From the U.S.: 1-866-263-8282
From Overseas (collect): +1-516-279-2637

Claims

File claims online at roamright.com or call for guidance.

What They Can Help With

Emergency medical assistance, trip interruption support, baggage delay/loss assistance, travel delay reimbursement, and concierge services.

24/7 Emergency Assistance

Through the Faye app — download before you travel.
Phone: 1-833-329-3462

Claims

File claims directly through the Faye app for fastest processing.

What They Can Help With

U.S. Government Resources for Travelers

Contact Information

From the U.S. & Canada: 1-888-407-4747
From Overseas: +1-202-501-4444
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Services Provided

Assistance with arrests, deaths, medical emergencies, victims of crime, missing persons, welfare/whereabouts inquiries, and emergency financial assistance for U.S. citizens abroad.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Enroll at step.state.gov before your trip. STEP allows the embassy to contact you in an emergency and helps family and friends reach you.

Find Your Nearest Embassy

Visit usembassy.gov to locate the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate at your destination. Save the address and phone number before you travel.

After-Hours Emergencies

U.S. Embassies have after-hours duty officers for emergencies. Call the embassy’s main number and follow the prompts for emergency assistance.

Destination-Specific Health Information

Visit wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel for vaccination requirements, health notices, and disease-specific guidance for your destination.

CDC Traveler Contact Center

U.S. Government Resources for Travelers

While the numbers below are the standard for landlines, many mobile carriers globally are configured to redirect 112 or 911 to the local dispatcher. However, never rely on redirection in a life-threatening situation — always use the local primary number if known.

🚨 North America

Country

Police

Ambulance

Fire

United States

911

911

911

Canada

911

911

911

Mexico

911

911

911

🇪🇺 Europe

In the European Union and most neighboring nations, 112 is the universal emergency number. Specific local numbers are provided where they remain in common use.

Country

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Albania

129

127

128

Andorra

110

116

118

Armenia

102

103

101

Austria

133

144

122

Azerbaijan

102

103

101

Belarus

102

103

101

Belgium

101

112

112

Bosnia & Herzegovina

122

124

123

Bulgaria

112

112

112

Croatia

192

194

193

Cyprus

112 / 199

112 / 199

112 / 199

Czech Republic

158

155

150

Denmark

112

112

112

Estonia

112

112

112

Finland

112

112

112

France

17

15

18

Georgia

112

112

112

Germany

110

112

112

Greece

100

166

199

Hungary

107

104

105

Iceland
112
112
112

Ireland

999 / 112

999 / 112

999 / 112

Italy

113

118

115

Kazakhstan

102

103

101

Kosovo

192

194

193

Latvia

110

113

112

Liechtenstein
117
144

118

Lithuania

112

112

112

Luxembourg
113
112
112

Malta

112

112
112
Moldova
112
112
112
Monaco
17
18

18

Montenegro
122

124

123

Netherlands

112

112

112

North Macedonia

192

194

193

Norway

112

113

110

Poland

997

999

998

Portugal

112

112

112

Romania

112

112

112

Russia

102

103

101

San Marino

113

118

115

Serbia

192

194

193

Slovakia

158

155

150

Slovenia

113

112

112

Spain

112

112

112

Sweden

112

112

112

Switzerland

117

144

118

Turkey

112

112

112

Ukraine

102

103

101

United Kingdom

999 / 112

999 / 112

999 / 112

Vatican City

112

112

112

🌏 Asia & Oceania

Country

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Australia

000

000

000

China

110

120

119

India

112

102

101

Japan

110

119

119

New Zealand

111

111

111

Singapore

999

995

995

South Korea

112

119

119

Thailand

191

1669

199

🌍 Africa & Middle East

Country

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Egypt

122

123

180

Israel

100

101

102

Kenya

999

999

999

Saudi Arabia

911 / 999

997

998

South Africa

10111

10177

10177

UAE

999

998

997

💃 Central & South America

Country

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Argentina

911

107

100

Brazil

190

192

193

Chile

133

131

132

Colombia

123

123

123

Costa Rica

911

911

911

Peru

105

117

116

Sources: U.S. Department of State (Bureau of Consular Affairs), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and official European governmental travel portals.

Legal Disclaimer

Snow & Sand Travels LLC (dba Snow & Sand Vacations) provides this global emergency directory as a courtesy to our clients. While we strive to maintain the most current and accurate data from reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of State, international emergency protocols and contact numbers are subject to change without notice by local governments and telecommunications providers.

1. Client Responsibility

 

The use of this guide is entirely voluntary. It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to verify and confirm accurate emergency contact numbers, the location of the nearest embassy, and local medical facilities for their specific destinations prior to departing their home country.

 

2. Limitation of Liability

 

Snow & Sand Travels LLC (dba Snow & Sand Vacations), its owners, and its affiliates shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or outdated information contained within this guide. We are not responsible for any errors that may result in a failure to connect with emergency services, delays in service, or any resulting injury, loss, or damage incurred while traveling.

 

3. Service Reliability

 

Travelers should be aware that in many regions, emergency response times, infrastructure, and language capabilities may differ significantly from those in the United States. A listed emergency number does not guarantee the arrival of assistance or the quality of care provided by local authorities.

 

4. Governing Terms

 

All information provided in this guide, and the use thereof, is strictly bound by the Terms & Conditions previously agreed upon between the client and Snow & Sand Travels LLC. By utilizing this resource, the client acknowledges and accepts the risks inherent in international travel and agrees to hold the agency harmless from any claims arising from the use of this informational courtesy.

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