7 Tips For Safe Travel
In today’s world, travel safety is more important than ever. While it can be a bit of a downer to plan for unfortunate circumstances, a little pre-trip prep will go a long way to ensure your safety.
Read on to discover seven easy tips for safe and secure travel.
Stay Informed
Whether you’re just traveling to Mount Bonnell or India, it always pays to do some research on your destination of choice. Learn the local customs, and get familiar with which areas are considered unsafe for out-of-towners. For international travel, the US Department of State offers a travel advisory for every country in the world, listing all problem-areas and possible threats to foreign visitors. Similar information is often available via individual state governments, as well.
Keep in mind: these types of guides exist to alert you to everything that could go wrong. It hardly means that the worst will come to pass, but a little awareness can make all the difference.
Make Copies of Vital Documents
Travelers should carry copies of important documents at all times. These include everything from government-issued IDS and passports, to insurance cards and emergency contact information. It is also wise to make copies of confirmations for things such as airfare and accommodations, should your digital copies fail. Before departure, scan your documents for storage online, and print out several hard copies to spread out across your luggage. Some opt to also carry scanned copies as files on a portable hard drive or flash disk.
In the midst of the COVID era, it is also wise to carry proof of vaccination or a negative test result with you during travel. Many destinations and attractions require these documents to be shown.
Keep Loved Ones In The Know
Whether you’re off on a short weekend jaunt or embarking on a longer journey, let friends and family know exactly where you will be, and when. Before departure, provide a copy of your itinerary to a few trusted people. This should include hotel and transportation bookings as well. Check in with your contacts throughout the course of your trip, so they will know you are safe.
On the flip side, avoid making your trip too public. Many home robberies occur due to announcements on social media, advertising your absence. If possible, designate a daily “house sitter” to check on in things and make sure nothing is out of place.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment on a trip–in fact, this is a good thing. However, you should be careful not to let your guard down too much. Keep one eye on your personal belongings at all times, and use caution when conversing with strangers. This includes locals. Getting to know the local community is one of the many charms of travel, but not everyone will have your best interest at heart. If someone’s behavior seems suspicious, or if you feel uncomfortable, leave the area immediately.
Use WiFi With Caution
Internet access is a coveted commodity on any trip, but be wary of public WiFi connections. Wireless servers are usually unsecured, leaving your personal information like credit card and social security numbers open to the threat of hackers. Avoid making online purchases over public internet, and when possible, use a virtual private network service to securely encrypt your data. Some travel agencies also offer pocket WiFi services, with built-in security features.
Secure Your Valuables
Whenever possible, avoid carrying valuables on your person, and secure them in a hotel room safe if one is available. Additional measures can be taken to make your room more secure, such as purchasing a door jammer. Lock and deadbolt your door when inside, and keep your windows closed. Do not admit any strangers to your hotel room, even if they claim to be hotel staff. If in doubt, a quick call to the front desk can confirm if someone from staff was sent to your room.
Beware of Scams
Travel scams are unfortunately a rampant part of today’s world, especially in the digital age where misinformation is easily spread, and personal info can be easily compromised. Be wary of anyone offering ATM assistance, hotel upgrades or offers of services such as photography or transportation/entertainment discounts. Avoid purchasing tickets of any kind from anywhere save official will call services. Scammers tend to travel those whose appearance screams “tourist”, so dressing to fit the locale will cut down on the risk of harassment.
We hope today’s tips will make your journey a safe one, wherever tomorrow takes you.
