5 Key Security Measures to Take Before You Travel to the United States

For many Japanese business leaders, entrepreneurs, and affluent families, travel to the United States is common—whether for corporate expansion, academic opportunities, real estate investments, or leisure. However, while the U.S. offers many opportunities, it also presents complex security challenges that travelers from Japan may not expect.

As a luxury executive protection firm with a deep presence across the U.S., The World Protection Group (WPG) regularly assists international clients—especially those from Japan—in navigating these risks with confidence. If you or your team are planning a trip to the U.S., there are critical precautions you should take before departure.

Security Measures Every Traveler Should Take Before Visiting the U.S.

Below are five key security measures that every high-profile or high-net-worth traveler should consider when visiting the United States.

1. Conduct a Pre-Trip Threat Assessment

Security begins long before your flight takes off. WPG recommends performing a threat assessment tailored to your itinerary:

• What cities will you visit?
• Are you attending high-profile events or meetings?
• Will you be staying in luxury hotels or private residences?

Different regions in the U.S. have varying risk levels. Cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco may have upscale districts, but they also report rising incidents of theft, assault, and property crime—especially targeting foreign visitors and wealthy individuals.

WPG provides customized risk reports and travel briefings that outline regional crime patterns, protest activity, and recent security concerns.

2. Secure Your Transportation and Lodging

• Luxury travelers are often most vulnerable between secure zones—at airports, in transit, and entering or exiting hotels. To reduce risk:
• Avoid rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft, especially when arriving in unfamiliar areas. Use pre-vetted, secure drivers through a reputable service.
• Book accommodations that offer private access, secured entry, and surveillance—such as luxury residences with concierge support or vetted hotels with executive security protocols.

WPG arranges secure vehicles, chauffeurs trained in evasive driving, and hotel reconnaissance before clients arrive. We ensure that you’re not stepping into a high-risk situation unknowingly.

3. Minimize Digital and Identity Exposure

Cybersecurity is one of the most overlooked aspects of travel. U.S. hackers often target tourists and foreign executives through public Wi-Fi, phishing scams, or cloned hotel networks.

Before departure:

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi. Use encrypted VPN connections and cellular data whenever possible.
• Disable auto-connect features on phones and laptops.
• Bring minimal devices, and avoid traveling with sensitive corporate or financial data.
• Be careful what you post on social media—location tagging and luxury displays can make you a target.

WPG offers pre-travel cybersecurity preparation, device hardening, and secure communication setup to keep clients digitally safe abroad.

4. Have Emergency Protocols in Place

Should something go wrong—whether it’s a medical emergency, theft, or a physical threat—you need to be able to respond quickly.

We recommend:

• Saving the contact information of your nearest Japanese consulate or embassy
• Enrolling in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) through the U.S. State Department for updates
• Having a designated local point of contact or executive protection team in the U.S.

WPG clients are assigned a dedicated point of contact in our 24/7 command center, with direct links to our security teams across Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and other key cities.

We also assist in coordinating emergency evacuations, liaising with local law enforcement, and providing rapid physical protection if needed.

5. Consider Hiring Executive Protection Services

For Japanese executives unfamiliar with the U.S. threat landscape, the single most valuable decision may be to hire a professional executive protection detail. This isn’t about walking with a visible bodyguard—it’s about having trained professionals quietly manage:

• Arrival and departure safety
• Secure transport and route planning
• Location risk evaluations
• Personal privacy and protection during public events
• Emergency response, including medical support

WPG’s protection teams operate with discretion and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that your comfort, appearance, and business objectives are never disrupted. Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, we customize our protection approach to suit your specific needs and travel goals.

Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Travel Protected

Traveling to the United States offers countless opportunities—but for high-profile or affluent travelers, it also demands a heightened level of awareness and preparation.

By taking proactive steps to secure your transportation, digital footprint, lodging, and emergency response, you protect more than just your belongings—you protect your reputation, peace of mind, and long-term well-being.

The World Protection Group is proud to support Japanese clients with elite-level protection and personalized travel security services. Whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, we make sure you arrive, move, and return safely—without unnecessary stress or exposure.

If you’re planning an upcoming trip to the U.S., contact WPG today for a full security consultation.