Boise Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Boise.
Healthcare System
Boise has excellent healthcare facilities with two major hospital systems: Saint Alphonsus Health System and St. Luke's Health System. The U.S. healthcare system is private, and services can be extremely expensive without insurance. Payment or insurance verification is typically required before non-emergency treatment.
Hospitals
St. Luke's Boise Medical Center and Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center are the primary hospitals serving visitors. Both have 24/7 emergency departments. Several urgent care clinics (St. Luke's Urgent Care, Saltzer Health Urgent Care, and others) are available throughout the city for non-life-threatening conditions at lower costs than emergency rooms.
Pharmacies
Major pharmacy chains include Walgreens, CVS, Albertsons, and Walmart pharmacies throughout Boise. Most are open until 9 PM, with some 24-hour locations. Prescription medications from other countries may not be recognized; bring sufficient supplies or a copy of your prescription. Over-the-counter medications are widely available.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended for all international visitors and U.S. residents from other states should verify their coverage extends to Idaho. Medical costs can be extraordinarily high—a simple emergency room visit can cost $1,000-$3,000 without insurance, and serious incidents can result in bills exceeding $100,000.
Healthcare Tips
- Keep copies of prescriptions and medical records with you, including generic drug names
- Urgent care clinics cost significantly less than emergency rooms for non-critical issues
- Many pharmacies offer walk-in clinics for minor ailments at reasonable prices
- If you need medical care, ask for a cost estimate upfront and inquire about self-pay discounts
- Altitude in Boise (2,730 feet) can affect some visitors; stay hydrated and take it easy initially
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Vehicle break-ins are the most common property crime in Boise, particularly affecting cars parked at trailheads, downtown parking areas, and hotel parking lots. Thieves target visible valuables, outdoor gear, and GPS devices.
Boise is a cycling-friendly city with extensive bike infrastructure, but bicycle theft is common. Rental bikes, high-end bicycles, and inadequately secured bikes are primary targets.
Porch piracy affects residential areas, particularly if you're renting a vacation home or Airbnb and expecting deliveries.
While Boise is generally pedestrian and bike-friendly, accidents can occur, especially on busy streets and at intersections. Some drivers may not expect pedestrians or cyclists in certain areas.
Pickpocketing and purse snatching are rare but can occur in crowded areas during events and festivals.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Scammers post fake vacation rental listings on legitimate websites or social media, often at below-market prices. They request wire transfers or unusual payment methods, then disappear with the money. The property either doesn't exist or isn't actually for rent.
Scammers sell fake or duplicate tickets for Boise State football games, concerts at the Idaho Center, or other popular events. Tickets may be counterfeit or already used.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to collect for local charities, youth sports teams, or causes. The money typically doesn't reach any legitimate organization.
Predatory towing companies monitor private lots and quickly tow vehicles, sometimes with unclear or hidden signage. Retrieval fees can be excessive.
When buying or selling items through Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or similar platforms, criminals may rob sellers of merchandise or buyers of cash during in-person meetups.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Outdoor Recreation Safety
- Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time, especially for foothills trails
- Carry plenty of water (at least 1 liter per 2 hours of activity) as Boise's dry climate increases dehydration risk
- Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in foothills areas
- Start hikes early to avoid afternoon heat in summer months
- Be aware of mountain bikers on multi-use trails and stay to the right
- Check trail conditions and closures on Ridge to Rivers website before heading out
- Carry bear spray if hiking in more remote areas, though bear encounters are rare near the city
Downtown and Nightlife Safety
- Downtown Boise is generally safe, but stay aware of your surroundings, especially after midnight
- Use well-lit streets and avoid shortcuts through alleys or parking garages late at night
- The area around 8th and Main Streets can be busier with nightlife—travel in groups when possible
- Use rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) rather than walking alone late at night
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible
- Drink responsibly and watch your drinks—never leave them unattended
- Know your accommodation address and have transportation arranged before going out
Driving Safety
- Idaho law requires headlights when wipers are in use
- Watch for cyclists, especially downtown and on roads adjacent to the Greenbelt
- Be cautious of deer, especially at dawn and dusk on roads near foothills
- Winter driving requires experience—roads can be icy despite appearing clear
- Don't use cell phones while driving (illegal without hands-free device)
- Right turn on red is permitted after stopping unless otherwise posted
- Be patient with slower traffic on scenic routes—passing lanes are marked
River Safety
- The Boise River is popular for floating in summer but can be deceptively fast and cold (typically 50-60°F)
- Always wear a life jacket when floating—Idaho law requires them for children under 13
- Never float alone; go with a group and stay together
- Avoid floating when river flows exceed 1,500 CFS (check online before going)
- Watch for strainers (fallen trees) and diversion dams—scout routes beforehand
- No alcohol is allowed on the river within Boise city limits
- Use designated entry and exit points; respect private property
General Urban Safety
- Keep car doors locked and windows up, even when driving
- Don't leave the engine running when you leave your vehicle
- Be cautious when using ATMs—use machines inside banks during business hours when possible
- Trust your instincts—if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
- Make copies of important documents and store separately from originals
- Register with your embassy if traveling from abroad for extended periods
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Boise is generally very safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The city has a welcoming atmosphere, and women commonly travel, dine, and recreate alone without issues. Standard precautions apply, particularly regarding nighttime activities and outdoor recreation. Street harassment is relatively uncommon compared to larger cities, and locals are typically friendly and helpful.
- Solo hiking is common but share your plans with someone and stick to popular trails during daylight hours
- Downtown is safe for solo dining and walking during evening hours, though stay on main streets after midnight
- Rideshare services are reliable and widely used—don't hesitate to use them instead of walking alone late at night
- Trust your instincts—if someone makes you uncomfortable, move to a public area or business
- The Boise community is generally respectful; don't hesitate to firmly decline unwanted attention
- Hotel staff and restaurant servers are typically helpful if you need assistance or feel unsafe
- Consider joining group outdoor activities through local outfitters if you want company for adventures
- Carry a charged phone and consider a portable charger for longer outings
- Women-focused fitness groups and running clubs are active in Boise if you want to connect with locals
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex marriage is legal throughout the United States, including Idaho. Federal protections exist for LGBTQ+ individuals, though Idaho state law provides limited additional protections. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited in employment under federal law.
- Downtown Boise, North End, and East End neighborhoods are particularly LGBTQ+-friendly
- Boise Pride Festival in June is well-attended and celebrates the local LGBTQ+ community
- The Basque Block and downtown have several LGBTQ+-friendly bars, restaurants, and businesses
- Look for businesses displaying Pride flags or Human Rights Campaign stickers
- Idaho's rural areas outside Boise may be less accepting; exercise more discretion in small towns
- Boise State University has an active LGBTQ+ community and resources
- The Community Center (The Onyx Club) provides resources and hosts events for LGBTQ+ individuals
- While generally safe, use discretion with public displays of affection based on your surroundings
- Local LGBTQ+ Facebook groups and apps can help you connect with the community and find welcoming spaces
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Boise, particularly international travelers. The U.S. healthcare system is extremely expensive, and a single medical emergency can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Even minor injuries requiring emergency room treatment can cost thousands of dollars. Trip cancellation coverage is also valuable given potential winter weather disruptions and wildfire smoke that can affect plans.
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