Chapters

Safety resources for LGBTQ+ travelers

Certain countries or destinations can be considered unsafe for LGBTQ+ people, including places where same-sex relationships are against the law. Government travel advisory websites are a good place to research specific destinations, especially if they have information related to local laws and culture. Here are a few recommended links for LGBTQ+ travelers.

  • The U.S. Department of State travel website: The LGBTQI+ page covers tips for before you travel, while you’re abroad, and what to do if you need to contact an embassy.
  • The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) has insightful online guides for LGBTQ+ safety, trans safety, marriage equality, and HIV travel.

Using pronouns for LGBTQ+ travelers

It’s common to see LGBTQ+ people and allies displaying their pronouns in business settings, for example, in an email signature. As a travel planner, how do you know which one to use when they list hybrid pronouns such as she/they? 

Just ask! Some people might use one set of pronouns in certain contexts and not in others. Or they might be more comfortable with alternating between pronouns. We’ve also seen individuals wearing pins or bracelets to indicate which set of pronouns they currently use. It's best not to assume. You can simply share your own pronouns and ask them for theirs. 

Pronouns.org is a practical resource dedicated to the empowering and inclusive use of personal pronouns in the English language. This website will help you understand why and how to use the pronouns someone goes by. 

When booking travel, try not to limit travelers to selecting only one set of pronouns for their profile. At the same time, making note of the gender on their travel documents can make for a smoother experience when travel systems only accept one set of pronouns. 

Helpful resources for LGBTQ+ travel planning

These additional resources can also assist with travel planning for LGBTQ+ business travelers. We’ve compiled this list with recommendations from travel experts in DEI and geopolitical analysis. 

Information listed by country:

Research and reports: 

Navigating passports and airports:

  • For U.S. nationals, the U.S. State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs provides information on passport gender designation changes and name changes. 
  • The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) provides guidance for transgender passengers. This resource is specific to the U.S. and may not apply abroad. However, it prepares you for departure from a U.S. airport. 

Guides for building a good travel risk management program

Planning individual business trips for LGBTQ+ employees is one thing, but having an inclusive travel program to start with is even better. The following sources can help you create or evaluate an LGBTQ+ travel program that builds inclusiveness and addresses organizational risk.

Supporting LGBTQ+ employees beyond travel

If you’re interested in finding out more about supporting LGBTQ+ inclusive workplaces, these organizations are working for progress at home and abroad. The following resources are excellent for promoting workplace diversity and inclusion, along with encouraging further learning:

  • Out & Equal is the premier organization working exclusively on LGBTQ+ workplace equality. Through their worldwide programs, Fortune 500 partnerships, and annual Workplace Summit conference, they help support organizations in creating a culture of belonging for all. 
  • All-In with Google - LGBTQ+ people have been historically excluded from marketing creative, most notably in the media's portrayal of LGBTQ+ women, people of color (especially women of color), trans and gender-expansive people, people with disabilities, and older people. These U.S.-focused insights, built with input from community partners,  are a starting point to create marketing that positively and authentically represents LGBTQ+ people – both inside and outside of Pride Month campaigns.
  • PFLAG, founded in 1973, is the first and largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and their families. Its more than 325,000 members and supporters work to create a caring, just, and affirming world for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. 
  • IGLTA was founded in 1983 and is the world's leading network of LGBTQ+ welcoming tourism businesses. They provide free travel resources and information while continuously working to promote equality and safety within LGBTQ+ tourism worldwide. 

For more information on travel planning resources, check out the Resources Hub, especially our latest whitepapers.