The 2026 World Cup will be an incredible experience, and the vast majority of fans will have a safe, trouble-free trip. But traveling to a new country — or three new countries — always requires awareness and preparation. Here's your safety guide for the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Emergency Numbers
United States: 911 (police, fire, ambulance). Canada: 911 (police, fire, ambulance). Mexico: 911 (unified emergency number since 2017). All three countries use the same number — easy to remember. If you're on a cell phone, 911 works even without a local SIM card. For non-emergencies, most US and Canadian cities have 311 for city services and information.
General Safety by Country
United States
All host cities are major tourist destinations and generally safe in well-trafficked areas. Standard urban precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, don't flash expensive items, and stay in well-lit areas at night. Violent crime in tourist areas is rare but petty theft (pickpocketing, phone snatching) increases during large events. Some neighborhoods in every major city are best avoided — ask your hotel concierge for local advice.
Canada
Canada is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. Toronto and Vancouver are clean, well-policed, and welcoming. Standard urban precautions apply, but violent crime is extremely rare in tourist areas. Canadians are famously helpful — don't hesitate to ask for directions or assistance.
Mexico
Mexico's host cities — Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey — are major metropolitan areas with well-developed tourist infrastructure. Stick to well-known tourist areas, especially at night. Use official taxis (look for "taxi autorizado" or "sitio" signs) or Uber rather than hailing cabs on the street. Don't drink tap water — buy bottled water everywhere. Tourist police are present in major areas and can assist in multiple languages.
Stadium Safety
FIFA stadiums will have extensive security — expect airport-style screening at entrances. Prohibited items include weapons, large bags, outside food/drink, fireworks, and flares. Arrive early (2–3 hours before kickoff) to clear security without rushing. Know your exits — in any emergency, head to the nearest marked exit, not back the way you came. Stay hydrated — summer temperatures in southern US cities and Mexico can be dangerous. Heat exhaustion is a real risk during afternoon matches.
Common Scams to Avoid
Fake tickets — only buy from FIFA's official platform or authorized resellers. Unofficial taxis — always use marked taxis or rideshare apps, never accept rides from unmarked cars. Fake currency exchange — use banks, ATMs, or official exchange houses (casas de cambio in Mexico). Overcharging at restaurants — always check the bill carefully, especially in tourist areas. Some restaurants add hidden service charges. Friendship bracelets and unsolicited gifts — people who put a bracelet on your wrist and then demand payment. Politely decline and walk away. Pickpocketing — most common in crowded areas (transit, fan zones, stadium entrances). Use a money belt or front pocket. Leave your passport in the hotel safe and carry a photocopy.
Money Safety
Carry only what you need for the day. Split your cash between different pockets/bags. Use ATMs inside banks rather than standalone machines on the street. Notify your bank of your travel plans so your cards aren't blocked. Keep emergency cash separate from your daily spending money. When tipping, use small bills — carrying $1s and $5s (or their local equivalents) keeps you from flashing large denominations. Gratiq helps you calculate tips quickly so you're not standing around with your wallet open doing math.
Health and Medical
Travel insurance is strongly recommended — healthcare in the US is extremely expensive without insurance. A simple ER visit can cost $2,000–5,000+ without coverage. In Canada, healthcare for visitors is also not free. In Mexico, private hospitals in major cities are excellent and much more affordable than the US. Pack any prescription medications you need, along with a letter from your doctor. Bring basic first aid: sunscreen (essential), pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication (especially for Mexico), and any allergy medications.
Stay Connected
Buy a local SIM or eSIM for data in each country — staying connected is your best safety tool. Share your itinerary with someone at home. Save your embassy or consulate contact information in your phone. Download offline maps of your host city. Keep your phone charged — bring a portable battery pack. Register with your country's embassy for travel alerts if available.