Reentering the US as an Immigrant: My Personal Safety and Travel Plan
Preparing to Fly Back to the US (During the Chaos)
There’s a specific kind of chaos that happens when you’re getting ready to fly halfway across the world, and it’s not just about airport security or overstuffed luggage. It’s the mess of questions, contingency plans, quiet anxieties, and the mental checklist that runs on loop.
As I prepare to head back to the US, I thought I’d share the plan I’ve put together. This is what makes sense for me, and maybe it’ll help you too if you ever find yourself traveling internationally during a politically complicated time, or if you just like being over-prepared for the unknown.
Before Traveling: What I'm Doing
Carry Proof of Citizenship
I’m not bringing a whole filing cabinet with me, but I do have my passport and digital copies of all my important documents saved securely on my phone. I’m also packing the original copy of my school’s invitation letter, just in case anyone needs more context about why I’ve been in China.
Share Your Travel Details (with a Purpose)
I’m sending my itinerary (including flights, layovers, and arrival estimates) to three people:
My parents because I’ll be staying with them once I land and they’re my official emergency contacts.
A friend in my local city who understands tech and social media and can step in quickly if something goes sideways.
My best friend in another city who not only has more resources (and possibly connections near government services) but also gets the nuance of being Chinese American. She understands the stakes without me needing to explain every layer.
Back Up & Clean Your Devices
Anything sensitive on my devices is backed up and encrypted. I’m logging out of unnecessary accounts, deleting apps that don’t serve a purpose during this trip, and disabling things like face and fingerprint recognition. Instead, I’m using a strong password.
Some people even travel with a clean burner phone or laptop. I’m not going that far this time, but it’s worth considering if you’re concerned about privacy or work-related files.
Location Sharing & Safety Nets
I’ve had my location shared with a couple of close friends for a while now, but I’m giving them a heads-up to actively keep tabs on my movement while I’m in transit. Just a little digital breadcrumb trail for peace of mind.
Legal & Communication Plan
I’ve started researching civil rights lawyers (immigration attorneys if you’re not a citizen) and saving their info. That contact list is being shared with my parents, just in case.
As for check-ins: I’ll be texting everyone at each major checkpoint: airport, takeoff, landing, and when I finally make it home. I’ve also memorized a couple phone numbers just in case I lose my device or get locked out of my accounts. We’ve agreed on how long to wait if they don’t hear from me before escalating things, and my friends know to contact my university if something really goes wrong.
If Things Get Weird (Because Sometimes They Do)
If I get stopped or questioned, I’m reminding myself to stay calm. It’s not the time to get confrontational. I know my rights: they can’t demand passwords to my devices without a warrant, and I don’t have to say anything without legal counsel present. I won’t sign anything without review, and I’ll record the names, badge numbers, and anything suspicious about the interaction.
Contingency Mode: Go Fund Me & Social Media Awareness
I’ve already written up a Go Fund Me draft and picked out a few photos just in case I need to raise legal funds quickly. One of my friends has been tasked with launching and promoting it if I’m unable to do it myself.
Look, privacy isn’t about hiding something. I have no shame in my body, but that doesn’t mean I want to strip in front of strangers at the airport. It’s the same idea.
This might all sound a little intense. Maybe it is. But I’d rather have a plan and not need it than wish I’d thought things through when it’s already too late. So here’s to safe travels, a smooth landing, and the weird comfort of being a little over-prepared.
Whether you're going home or heading somewhere new, may your trip be uneventful—in the best way.