Traveling can be an exciting, eye-opening experience. It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of adventure. But don’t forget travel safety and security considerations when you’re abroad. Follow these 7 travel safety tips to help you make a trip that is memorable for all the right reasons.
Do your research:
Get to know your destination in depth before you arrive. Read traveler reviews and consult local people for information on the safest neighborhoods, accommodations, and crime incidents. Check the State Department’s website for national updates and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Another important travel safety precaution is to know who to call in an emergency. Find contact information for the nearest embassy or consulate, police station, and other local emergency departments.
Don’t pay attention:
People who seem to be out of town are especially vulnerable to crime, so try to mingle with them as much as possible. Choose obscure clothing that does not attract attention. Be careful when looking at maps and approach people carefully if you need instructions. Also, consider investing in protective clothing and gear that will make it more difficult for pickpockets to steal money and other personal items.
Make copies of important documents:
You never know when you’ll need your passport, driver’s license, or any other form of identification. Scan these documents and print several hard copies to save online. That way, if you need to go home, you don’t have to worry about finding the right documents.
Keep your friends and family up to date:
It doesn’t matter if you are traveling overnight or on a month-long international trip, it is always a good idea to bring your friends or family back home. Before leaving, send a copy of your itinerary to a few trusted people who can track your whereabouts. Check-in regularly with your contacts to let them know you are where you should be.
Beware of public Wi-Fi:
Don’t let Internet access cloud your decision. When you use public Wi-Fi, hackers seeking to steal valuable information can gain access to your data, including credit cards or social security numbers. If you need wireless Internet service, set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) that will allow you to securely access the Internet while traveling.
Protect your hotel room:
Even if your hotel has strict security measures, there are steps you can take to keep your room safe. Lock the door and put on deadbolts and keep your windows closed. You can buy a jammer, a portable device that slides under the door for another layer of protection. Try to give the impression that you are in your room even when you are away, such as not disturbing outside your door and keeping curtains or windows closed. Don’t let strangers into your room, even if they say they work for the hotel. You can always check the front desk to see if anyone has been ordered by the hotel staff to come to your room.
Be aware of the environment around you:
Don’t let your guard down to get the best picture for your social media platforms. Keep an eye on your personal belongings at all times and use good judgment when talking to strangers. A big part of the joy of travel is providing opportunities to meet new people and learn about their cultures. But if someone close to you is acting suspiciously, or if you feel uncomfortable, leave the area immediately. For the online assignments, and others you can also find an online professional writer for affordable assignment writing as well in your budget and time frame regarding traveling tips and other precautions you should adopt before going on any tour. Following these tips can help you travel safely, but no matter how many precautions you take, the unexpected can always happen. Stay safe with travel insurance from all over the country, and get peace of mind wherever you go.
