Billings Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Billings.
Healthcare System
Billings has a well-developed healthcare system serving as the regional medical hub for Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas. The U.S. healthcare system is private and fee-based, with costs that can be extremely high for uninsured patients. Medical facilities in Billings are modern and staffed by qualified professionals.
Hospitals
Billings Clinic (2800 10th Ave N, 406-657-4000) and St. Vincent Healthcare (1233 N 30th St, 406-237-7000) are the primary hospitals serving visitors. Both have 24/7 emergency departments. For non-emergency care, walk-in clinics and urgent care centers are available throughout the city with shorter wait times and lower costs than emergency rooms.
Pharmacies
Major pharmacy chains including Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart Pharmacy operate throughout Billings, with several offering 24-hour service. Most prescription medications available in other U.S. cities are readily available. Visitors can transfer prescriptions from out-of-state, but will need to contact their home pharmacy. Over-the-counter medications are widely available at pharmacies, grocery stores, and convenience stores.
Insurance
Health insurance is not legally required for visitors but is STRONGLY recommended. Medical costs in the U.S. are among the highest in the world. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and hospitalization can result in bills exceeding $50,000. International visitors should ensure their travel insurance includes comprehensive medical coverage with high limits.
Healthcare Tips
- Keep your insurance information and policy numbers easily accessible on your phone and in physical form
- Many providers require upfront payment or credit card guarantee before treatment for non-emergency care
- Urgent care clinics (typically $100-200 for a visit) are much cheaper than emergency rooms ($500-3000+) for non-life-threatening issues
- Prescription costs can be high; ask about generic alternatives to save money
- If you have a chronic condition, bring sufficient medication for your entire trip plus extra in case of delays
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Vehicle break-ins and theft from cars are the most common crimes affecting visitors in Billings. Thieves target vehicles in hotel parking lots, trailhead parking areas, and downtown streets, looking for visible valuables, GPS devices, and outdoor equipment.
Porch piracy occurs in Billings, though it's less likely to affect short-term visitors. Those staying in vacation rentals or having items shipped to hotels should be aware.
While Billings is urban, wildlife including rattlesnakes, black widow spiders, and occasionally deer are present in rimrock areas and trails. Mountain lions and bears are rare but possible in outlying areas.
Montana weather can change rapidly and be extreme. Winter temperatures can drop below -20°F with dangerous wind chills. Summer can bring severe thunderstorms, hail, and occasional tornadoes. Flash flooding can occur in coulees and low-lying areas.
Montana has higher-than-average rates of DUI incidents. Rural roads and highways can be particularly dangerous, especially at night and on weekends.
Pickpocketing and purse snatching are relatively rare in Billings compared to larger cities, but opportunistic theft can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to represent local charities or causes, asking for cash donations. Some may have official-looking badges or clipboards.
Some operators offer Yellowstone tours at inflated prices with poor service or may add unexpected fees. Not technically a scam but poor value.
One person creates a distraction (asking for directions, spilling something) while an accomplice steals bags or valuables.
Fake vacation rental listings using stolen photos, requiring wire transfers or payment outside official platforms.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Vehicle Safety
- Keep doors locked while driving and when parked
- Never leave vehicle running unattended, even for quick errands (also illegal)
- Store all valuables in trunk before arriving at destination
- Keep emergency kit in vehicle: water, snacks, blanket, flashlight, first aid kit, phone charger
- Fill up gas tank when it reaches half-full; gas stations can be far apart on highways
- Watch for wildlife on roads, especially at dawn and dusk
- In winter, keep ice scraper, extra warm clothing, and blankets in vehicle
Outdoor Recreation
- Tell someone your plans and expected return time before hiking
- Carry plenty of water - at least 1 liter per 2 hours of activity
- Bring layers of clothing as weather can change rapidly
- Download offline maps as cell service can be unreliable
- Carry bear spray in remote areas and know how to use it
- Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost and encountering hazards
- Start outdoor activities early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in summer
- Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out
Downtown and Evening Safety
- Downtown Billings is generally safe but use standard urban precautions after dark
- Stay in well-lit areas and on main streets when walking at night
- Use rideshare services or taxis if you've been drinking
- Keep valuables hidden and bags secured when in crowded areas
- Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
- Avoid confrontations with aggressive panhandlers; politely decline and move on
Accommodation Safety
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuable electronics
- Keep hotel room doors locked and use deadbolts and security chains
- Verify identity of anyone claiming to be hotel staff before opening door
- Note emergency exit locations when you check in
- Don't advertise your room number or travel plans to strangers
- Choose hotels with interior corridors and good lighting for added security
Health and Wellness
- Stay well-hydrated; Montana's dry climate can cause dehydration quickly
- Allow time to adjust to the altitude if coming from sea level
- Protect against sun exposure with sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats
- Wash hands frequently, especially during cold and flu season
- Carry any prescription medications in original containers with labels
- Know the location of nearest urgent care or hospital to your accommodation
Money and Valuables
- Use credit cards instead of carrying large amounts of cash
- Keep backup credit card and emergency cash separate from primary wallet
- Be discreet when using ATMs; use machines inside banks when possible
- Make copies of important documents (passport, insurance, credit cards) and store separately
- Monitor credit card statements for unauthorized charges
- Most businesses accept credit cards; cash is less commonly needed than in other countries
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Billings is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female visitors. The city has a friendly, Western culture where people are typically helpful and respectful. Women can move about freely and dress as they choose. Standard precautions for any U.S. city apply, but harassment is less common than in larger metropolitan areas. The outdoor recreation culture means it's common to see women hiking, dining, and traveling alone.
- Solo hiking is generally safe on popular trails during daylight hours, but inform someone of your plans
- Use rideshare apps or reputable taxi services rather than walking alone late at night
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Hotel staff and local businesses are generally helpful if you need assistance or feel unsafe
- Downtown bars and restaurants are generally respectful environments, but stay aware of your drinks
- Keep phone charged and consider sharing your location with a friend when out alone
- The local culture is casual and friendly; don't mistake friendliness for inappropriate interest
- Carry pepper spray if it makes you feel more comfortable (legal in Montana)
- Join group tours or activities if you prefer company for outdoor adventures
LGBTQ+ Travelers
LGBTQ+ relationships are legal throughout Montana. Same-sex marriage is legal nationwide in the U.S. However, Montana state law provides limited anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. The city of Billings has a non-discrimination ordinance that includes sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Downtown Billings and university areas tend to be more LGBTQ+ friendly
- The Billings LGBTQ+ community center (406 Montana Pride Center) offers resources and information
- Major hotels and tourist businesses are generally welcoming and professional
- Exercise discretion in rural areas and small towns outside Billings
- Research accommodations and businesses beforehand; many openly advertise LGBTQ+ friendly policies
- Montana's political climate is mixed; be prepared for varying levels of acceptance
- The city has an annual Pride celebration (typically in June) that has grown in recent years
- Medical providers in Billings are generally professional and non-discriminatory
- Some religious-affiliated businesses may be less welcoming; research beforehand if concerned
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Billings due to the extremely high cost of U.S. healthcare and the risks associated with outdoor recreation. A medical emergency without insurance can result in bills exceeding $50,000. Additionally, weather-related travel disruptions are common, particularly in winter, making trip interruption coverage valuable. The outdoor activities popular in the Billings area (hiking, skiing, etc.) increase the risk of injury requiring medical attention.
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