Big cities are busy places, and visitors stand out: they carry bags and cameras, check their phones on street corners and do not yet know which blocks to avoid. The vast majority of trips to San Francisco, Boston and other US cities go smoothly, and most problems visitors face are petty theft rather than anything frightening. A few habits, built in from the start, will protect you from most of it.
Before you go
- Choose your base carefully. Look at reviews that mention the street outside, not just the room. Our guide to where to stay in San Francisco points out the areas to think twice about.
- Copy your documents. Keep photos of your passport, cards and insurance details somewhere secure that you can reach from any device.
- Get insurance that covers theft as well as medical costs; see travel insurance basics.
- Share your plans with someone at home, especially if you are traveling alone.
Protecting your phone and valuables
Phone theft is one of the most common crimes affecting visitors in big cities. Phones are snatched from hands and tables, often by someone passing on foot or a bike.
- Step aside to use your phone, against a wall or inside a shop, rather than at the curb or in a doorway on a busy street.
- Do not leave phones on cafe tables, especially outdoor ones.
- Use a bag that closes and wear it in front in crowds, on crowded buses and on cable cars.
- Split your money. Carry one card and a little cash day to day, and leave a backup card in the hotel safe.
- Set up a screen lock and remote tracking on your phone before you travel.
Never leave anything in a car
Car break-ins are a well-known problem in San Francisco, particularly at tourist viewpoints, parking lots and busy streets. Thieves break windows in seconds, even for a bag that looks empty. If you are driving, leave nothing visible at all: no luggage, no shopping, no jackets, no charging cables. Do not move items into the trunk at the parking spot itself, where someone may be watching; pack the trunk before you arrive. Better still, if you are staying in the city, do not rent a car until you leave.
Getting around at night
- Stay on busy, well-lit streets, even if it means a longer route.
- Take a ride for longer journeys late at night, rather than walking through unfamiliar areas.
- Check the car before you get in. With a ride-hail app, match the license plate, the car and the driver's name before opening the door, and ask the driver who they are picking up rather than offering your name.
- On transit, sit near the driver or in a car with other passengers, and stand back from the platform edge.
Common scams and tricks
Most are variations on distraction. Someone spills something on you, asks you to sign a petition or drops something at your feet while a partner reaches for your bag. Be wary of anyone who is unusually insistent about helping you at a ticket machine or cash machine, and use machines inside banks where possible. Buy tickets for shows, tours and transit only from official sellers. At airports, decline offers of rides from people who approach you inside the terminal and use official taxi ranks or app pickups.
Street life
Visitors to San Francisco in particular will see people experiencing homelessness, mental illness or addiction, especially in parts of downtown such as the Tenderloin. Most are no threat to anyone. Be respectful, give space, and a polite "sorry, no" is enough if you are asked for money. If someone's behavior seems unpredictable, cross the street calmly.
If something goes wrong
In an emergency in the US, dial 911 for police, fire or ambulance. For a theft that is not an emergency, use the local police non-emergency line or file a report online where available; insurers usually need a report. Cancel stolen cards immediately using the numbers you saved before the trip. If you lose your passport, contact your embassy or consulate. For solo-specific advice, see solo city trips.
Frequently asked questions
Are San Francisco and Boston safe for tourists?
Both are generally safe for visitors who take normal precautions. Petty theft, especially car break-ins in San Francisco and phone snatching, is the main risk.
Should I carry cash?
A small amount for tips and small purchases is useful. Most places accept cards, so there is no need to carry much.
What should I do in an earthquake in San Francisco?
Drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture and hold on until the shaking stops. Stay away from windows.