Why This Guide Matters
Travelling during a period of political calm is something most people take for granted, but situations can change rapidly. A military situation—whether a sudden coup, the declaration of martial law, or an unexpected invasion—can transform a peaceful destination into a place where movement, communication, and safety are suddenly restricted. Tourists are often caught off-guard because they are unfamiliar with local politics, regional tensions, or early warning signs. This guide exists to help travellers understand what these events look like, how they unfold, and the practical steps to stay safe.
When instability begins, confusion spreads quickly. Roads may close with little warning, airports can suspend operations, and internet or mobile networks may be restricted. Having a clear plan helps you act fast and reduce risk. Simply knowing how to shelter safely, whom to contact, and when to avoid travel can make a significant difference.
This guide breaks down real scenarios, explains the differences between an invasion, a coup, and martial law, and gives you the tools to respond calmly. The emphasis is on staying aware, protecting your documentation and communication channels, and following reliable official instructions. Whether you are a solo traveller, a family on holiday, or part of a tour group, understanding how to react during a military situation is essential preparation for modern travel.
Understanding the Types of Military Events
A military situation can describe several different types of instability, and each one affects travellers differently. Understanding the distinctions helps you recognise what is happening and what responses are safest.
An invasion involves one country’s armed forces entering another’s territory with the aim of seizing control or destabilising the government. This can cause immediate disruption to airspace, sudden border closures, and rapid evacuations. Invasions typically prioritise strategic locations such as airports, ports, government buildings, and communication hubs, which travellers should avoid.
A military coup occurs when armed forces remove a government and take control of the state. Coups often begin with the detention of leaders, the suspension of constitutional processes, the closure of borders, and temporary airport shutdowns. Curfews and roadblocks are common in the early hours, and the atmosphere can shift very quickly.
Martial law places the military in control of civilian life. This may include curfews, ID checks, travel restrictions, bans on gatherings, and strict control over media and communications. Unlike a coup, martial law can be declared during unrest, terrorism, natural disasters, or external threats, and daily life may continue with heavy regulation.
Recognising which situation you are facing allows you to adjust your movements, communication, and exit strategy appropriately.
Immediate Priorities in Any Military Crisis
The first moments of a military crisis can feel confusing, but focusing on a few clear priorities helps you stay safe. Your main objective is to protect yourself from immediate danger while gathering reliable information.
Your first priority is personal safety. Move away from windows, balconies, or open streets and find a secure indoor location. Hotels are often the safest option, as staff can provide local guidance and understand the situation on the ground.
Your second priority is situational awareness. Check official government advice, hotel announcements, embassy messages, and verified news sources. Avoid social media rumours. If networks are unreliable, try SMS, offline maps, or direct contact with your accommodation.
Your third priority is communication. Conserve battery power by reducing background app usage, lowering screen brightness, and switching to low-power modes. If internet service becomes restricted, VPNs or SMS may remain functional. Always keep your passport, money, and essentials within reach.
Your fourth priority is visibility and behaviour. Stay low-profile, avoid large crowds, and do not film soldiers or checkpoints. Travellers draw less attention when calm, compliant, and respectful of local security instructions.
By focusing on these core actions, you give yourself the best chance of staying safe while determining what to do next.
How to Prepare Before You Travel
Preparation is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself if a military situation develops while you’re abroad. Before travelling, check your government’s travel advisories and understand any recent political tensions in the region. This doesn’t require deep research, but being aware of recent unrest, protests, or border flashpoints can help you assess potential risks.
Ensure your critical documents are backed up. Take photos of your passport, visas, travel insurance, and key booking confirmations. Save digital copies to a secure cloud service and an offline folder on your phone. If you lose your passport or become separated from your belongings, these copies can speed up assistance from your embassy.
Prepare your communication tools in advance. Download offline maps, translation apps, and any necessary travel apps (airline, accommodation, local transport). Ensure roaming works or have an eSIM ready. Carry a power bank and charging cables, as prolonged sheltering or power cuts can make electricity hard to access.
It’s also wise to carry a small amount of emergency cash. During instability, card machines can go offline and ATMs may be empty. Cash allows you to pay for transport, supplies, or accommodation even when networks fail.
Finally, consider where you stay. Hotels in central business districts or near government buildings may be riskier during political change. Staying slightly outside these zones reduces your likelihood of being close to demonstrations or security operations.
What to Do During an Invasion
An invasion is one of the most disruptive types of military situation, often causing immediate closures of airports, borders, and transport routes. Your main priority is to get to a safe indoor location. Avoid windows, rooftops, and high floors, and stay away from any strategic areas such as military bases, government buildings, and transport hubs. These sites may become targets or heavily controlled.
Once you are indoors, limit movement until you understand what is happening. Use whatever communication channels remain available to check official guidance, including messages from your embassy. Internet access may be restricted, so be ready to rely on SMS or offline tools. Avoid posting or sharing sensitive images or information online, as this can draw unwanted attention.
If you are located near an international border, road routes may temporarily reopen for humanitarian crossings. Embassies often coordinate evacuation options or provide information about the safest exit points. Do not attempt to cross borders unofficially; doing so may be dangerous or illegal during active conflict.
Have your passport, documents, and essentials packed in one bag in case you need to move quickly. Keep footwear near your bed, maintain a charged phone where possible, and follow local instructions closely. Most importantly, stay calm and avoid unnecessary risks—your safety is the priority until evacuation becomes feasible.
What to Do During a Military Coup
A military coup can unfold very quickly, often beginning in the early morning with the removal or detention of government officials. Travellers may experience sudden curfews, blocked roads, airport closures, and widespread communication outages. The safest immediate action is to stay indoors and avoid areas associated with government, police, or military activity.
During a coup, visibility is a key risk factor. Avoid filming soldiers or posting videos online, as this can attract negative attention. Keep your identification with you at all times, but store it securely. Comply calmly with any checkpoint or curfew instructions without debate or argument.
Communication networks may be cut or heavily restricted. If mobile data stops working, try connecting to hotel Wi-Fi or sending SMS messages, which often function even in network disruptions. Keep your phone charged and conserve battery power.
Hotels and major international brands often have crisis procedures and local staff who understand how coups typically unfold. Follow their advice and remain in your room unless instructed otherwise. Do not attempt to travel to the airport until it is confirmed to be operating again.
Coup situations vary in length. Some resolve within hours, while others may take days. Staying patient, compliant, and well-informed helps you avoid unnecessary risk while waiting for official guidance on movement or evacuation.
What to Do Under Martial Law
When martial law is declared, the military temporarily takes control of civilian administration, which can significantly alter how you move, communicate, and travel. Your first step is to understand the specific restrictions. Curfews may be enforced, ID checks may occur frequently, and certain areas—such as transport stations, government districts, and commercial centres—could be placed under tight control. Always carry identification, but keep your passport secured when not in use.
Movement restrictions during martial law vary between countries. Some areas may remain open with limited hours, while others may be completely inaccessible. Respect all orders from authorities, as disobedience can be treated as a serious offence during this period. Avoid photographing soldiers, checkpoints, or infrastructure; this may be seen as suspicious or unlawful.
Communication networks may be limited, but they are often not fully shut down. Use this time to contact your embassy, notify family of your safety, and confirm if evacuation routes exist. If public transport remains open, it may run reduced schedules, so plan any essential movements carefully and with confirmation from local staff.
Staying indoors is often the safest option, especially at night. Listen for official announcements from your accommodation, embassy, and local authorities. Martial law can last from hours to weeks, depending on the situation. Staying calm and compliant reduces risk while you wait for the situation to stabilise or for formal guidance on whether it is safe to leave.
If Borders Close or Airports Shut
During any military situation, airports are among the first facilities to close, and land borders may restrict entry or exit. If this happens, remain calm and avoid attempting to travel independently to transport hubs until official confirmation is issued. Travellers who rush to the airport often find lockdowns, large crowds, or heavily armed security, which can increase personal risk.
Monitor announcements from your airline and embassy. Airlines may suspend flights or reroute aircraft, while embassies may coordinate evacuation lists or provide alternative departure advice. If commercial travel remains unavailable, neighbouring countries might open designated humanitarian corridors. These crossings are usually announced publicly and may involve transport arranged by local or foreign authorities.
Avoid unofficial routes or private drivers offering border crossings. These can be dangerous, unregulated, or even illegal during a national emergency. Instead, stay in contact with your hotel staff, who often receive local updates more quickly than tourists.
If evacuation flights are arranged, they may depart from secondary airports or designated zones rather than the main international airport. Be prepared for limited luggage allowances, rigorous security checks, and fast departure times. Keep your essential documents, money, medications, and communication devices ready so you can move quickly when the opportunity comes.
How to Communicate During a Crisis
Communication can become unreliable during a military situation, but maintaining some connection helps you receive updates, follow instructions, and contact loved ones. Internet services may slow or be restricted, so rely on multiple methods rather than one. SMS messages often work even when data is unavailable. If your hotel has Wi-Fi, this may remain functional longer than mobile networks.
Conserve battery power by reducing screen brightness, closing apps running in the background, and switching to low-power mode. Keep your power bank charged and ready at all times. If you expect prolonged outages, only use your phone for essential communication and updates.
Consider switching to a VPN if websites or services are blocked, but be aware that using one may itself be restricted in some countries. Offline navigation apps, downloaded documents, and saved translation tools become extremely useful when the internet fails. If local phone lines continue operating, ask your accommodation if they can assist with contacting your embassy.
Avoid posting sensitive photos, videos, or political commentary online. This can draw unwanted attention and may be illegal during periods of heightened security. Keep messages to family and friends simple and factual, confirming your safety and your intended next steps. A calm, steady communication strategy helps you navigate uncertainty without draining your resources.
How to Stay Informed
Staying informed during a military situation is essential, as conditions can change within minutes. Your priority is to rely on official, verified information rather than speculation or social media rumours. Start by checking your embassy’s travel alerts, as these are usually the most reliable for foreign nationals. Many embassies send SMS updates, so ensure your number is registered where possible.
Your accommodation can also be a valuable source of information. Hotel staff often have local contacts, access to local-language updates, and an understanding of how previous crises unfolded. If the internet is unstable, ask reception for printed notices, radio instructions, or updates from local authorities.
Where available, tune in to local radio or TV broadcasts, as these continue operating even during power outages thanks to backup systems. Avoid relying on posts from private individuals or unverified accounts. In a military crisis, misinformation spreads quickly and can put you at risk.
Keep a simple routine: check updates at set intervals, monitor embassy channels, and avoid constant scrolling that drains your battery and increases anxiety. Focus on the most practical information—curfew times, restricted zones, road closures, and any evacuation guidance.
Dealing With Checkpoints, Soldiers & Curfews
Encounters with soldiers or security forces are common during a military situation. The key principle is to remain calm, respectful, and compliant. Always keep your passport or national ID accessible but secure. When approaching a checkpoint, remove sunglasses, keep your hands visible, and speak politely.
If asked to show your documents, hand them over slowly and without hesitation. Do not argue, joke, or question orders. Soldiers may be tense or operating under strict instructions, so your behaviour should be clear, cooperative, and non-confrontational.
Avoid taking photos or videos of military personnel, vehicles, or installations. This can be mistaken for surveillance and may lead to questioning or confiscation of your device. If you encounter a curfew, return to your accommodation immediately and do not attempt to negotiate exceptions. Curfews are often enforced strictly, and violations can carry serious consequences.
If movement is necessary, ask your hotel to arrange transport where possible. They are familiar with local restrictions and may know the safest times and routes. Your goal is to minimise interaction with security forces, follow all instructions, and avoid any appearance of resistance.
Where to Shelter
Choosing the right place to shelter is vital to staying safe. In most military situations, your hotel is the safest location, especially larger international chains with crisis protocols. Ask staff if there is a designated safe area such as a basement, internal corridor, or reinforced room. Avoid rooms with large windows, high floors, or locations overlooking government buildings or main roads.
If you are outside when instability begins, move quickly to the nearest indoor space. Supermarkets, offices, hotels, and residential buildings may offer temporary safety until you can return to your accommodation. Avoid standing in open areas, near glass façades, or along main traffic routes where disturbances may occur.
Inside your shelter, choose a spot away from windows and exterior walls. Keep your emergency bag, passport, essentials, and fully charged phone beside you. If you expect prolonged sheltering, collect water, snacks, and any medical essentials.
It is important to remain quiet and low-profile. Do not gather near entrances or lobby areas where crowds may form, as these can become unsafe if soldiers or police arrive. The safest place is usually an internal room or hallway with limited visibility from outside. Stay alert, follow instructions from staff, and move only when it is confirmed safe to do so.
Mental Health & Stress Management
A military situation can trigger fear, confusion, and stress, even for seasoned travellers. Your first priority is to recognise that these reactions are normal and expected. Focus on controlling what you can: your breathing, your environment, and your routine. Slow, deep breathing helps reduce panic and keeps your mind clear for decision-making.
Create a sense of stability by setting simple, manageable tasks: checking updates at set intervals, preparing your essentials, and organising your belongings. Avoid constant doom-scrolling or repeatedly refreshing news feeds. This drains battery life and increases anxiety without improving safety.
If you’re travelling with others, maintain calm, reassuring communication. Panic can spread quickly in groups, but a steady tone helps everyone make better decisions. If you’re alone, stay in touch with trusted contacts. A short message saying “I’m safe and sheltering” can reduce pressure on you and them.
Limit exposure to loud noises, open areas, and crowds. These trigger unnecessary stress during instability. Instead, choose a quiet internal space, dim the lights, and create a restful atmosphere if possible. Small comforts—listening to music, reading a book, or focusing on practical tasks—can help keep your mind grounded.
Above all, remind yourself that your reactions are valid, and that following clear steps gives you control even in uncertain situations.
How Embassies Assist (and Their Limits)
Your embassy is one of your most important sources of help during a military situation. Embassies monitor events closely, maintain contact with local authorities, and issue safety instructions tailored to foreign nationals. They can help with lost documents, confirm curfew rules, provide location-specific advice, and—if needed—coordinate evacuation plans.
However, it’s important to understand their limitations. Embassies cannot send vehicles to collect you from unsafe areas, bypass curfews, or negotiate with soldiers on your behalf. They also cannot guarantee immediate evacuation, especially if airports are shut or if the local authorities restrict movement.
Registering your presence through any available service (such as online crisis forms or SMS check-ins) ensures you receive direct updates, including information about muster points, safe corridors, or evacuation flights. Keep your phone on low-power mode to avoid missing critical messages.
If communication networks collapse, visit your hotel reception. Staff often receive embassy information first and may post printed announcements or instructions. Your embassy’s role is to guide, inform, and organise—not to extract individuals in dangerous environments—so you should always prioritise self-sheltering and safe behaviour while waiting for guidance.
What to Do If You Are Injured
If you suffer an injury during a military situation, stay calm and assess your condition before moving. Minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, or sprains should be treated with basic first aid. Clean wounds with bottled water, apply pressure to bleeding areas, and keep injuries protected from infection. Your hotel may have a first aid kit or a staff member trained to help.
For more serious injuries, prioritise reaching medical care safely. Hospitals may still operate during unrest, but services could be limited and staff may be under pressure. Ask your accommodation to contact medical providers on your behalf; they can clarify which clinics are open and which routes are safest.
If curfews or roadblocks prevent movement, contact your travel insurance emergency line. Many insurers have crisis teams who can coordinate remote medical advice or arrange transport when conditions allow. Provide your location, your symptoms, and any relevant medical history.
Avoid approaching military or police personnel for medical help unless absolutely necessary. Their primary focus will be security, not healthcare, and miscommunication can lead to added stress. Stay sheltered, keep your phone charged, and use any available communication channels to arrange assistance.
Your safety is the priority—do not take risks that could worsen your condition or place you in the path of instability.
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After You Leave the Affected Area
Once you have safely left the affected region, take time to stabilise your situation before planning your onward travel. Find a secure place to rest, such as a hotel or transport hub in a neighbouring city or country. Prioritise contacting your family or emergency contacts to let them know you are safe and no longer in immediate danger.
Next, begin organising your onward travel. Airlines may allow fee-free changes or emergency rebooking following disruption caused by military events. If your passport was lost or damaged, visit your embassy or consulate immediately to arrange an emergency document. Keep all receipts for accommodation, transport, and essentials, as these may form part of an insurance claim later.
It is also wise to avoid posting detailed accounts of the situation online until you are safely away. Sensitive information about checkpoints, soldiers, or evacuation routes can create security risks for others still in the area. Keep social media updates neutral and factual, or delay posting until the situation stabilises.
Finally, take time to decompress. The emotional impact of a military situation can linger, and it’s normal to feel shaken or exhausted. Give yourself time to reflect, rest, and regain a sense of normality before resuming your travels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first if a military situation begins while I’m travelling?
Your first step is to seek shelter indoors, stay away from windows, and check reliable information sources such as your embassy or hotel. Do not head for transport hubs until you know they are safe and open.
Is it safe to film or photograph soldiers or checkpoints?
No. Filming military personnel or infrastructure can be interpreted as hostile or suspicious. Always keep your phone down and avoid drawing attention.
Will my travel insurance cover evacuation?
Coverage varies. Some insurers include political unrest or emergency evacuation clauses, while others exclude them. It’s essential to check your policy in advance.
How long do coups or martial law situations usually last?
Some resolve within hours, while others continue for days or weeks. Your best strategy is to remain flexible, follow official guidance, and avoid unnecessary movement.
Should I try to leave immediately?
Only move if it is confirmed safe. Rushing to airports or borders during instability can place you at greater risk than sheltering in a secure location.
Last Updated
This guide was last updated in 2025. Situations can change rapidly, so always check the latest government travel advice and embassy updates before travelling.
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