The world is filled with endless possibilities for incredible travel adventures, but not everything on the road goes exactly as planned. Experienced travelers know that keeping yourself safe should be top priority no matter where your travels take you. Read on below for our essential tips for staying secure on your next journey, and have a worry-free, fun-filled adventure!
1. A traveler’s safeguard: Tips for Staying Secure While Exploring
The freedom, novelty, and excitement of travelling can be a huge offer of comfort and joy for some; however, exploring a new place also brings some risks., safety can be a major concern, particularly when travelling on a budget or solo. Here are some tips to help keep you secure on your next journey.
- Know Your Route:
- Before embarking on your trip, familiarise yourself with the local geography and plan out your route with great detail.
- Budget some extra time for stops, detours, and complications to ensure you have extra time to explore and enjoy.
- Stay Informed:
- Learn the local language or a few key phrases to help you communicate with locals, if needed.
- If you’re travelling abroad, learn the customs, laws, and regulations, as well as potential safety or health risks.
- Be aware of the news in the areas you’ll be visiting, and stay away from any unsafe or politically unstable areas.
- Stay On Point:
- When out and about, be aware of your environment and the people around you, and stay alert for anything suspicious.
- Explore in groups or with a buddy rather than going solo for added safety.
- Although risks are unlikely, if you ever feel uneasy or unsafe, trust your gut and take action to protect yourself.
- Keep Your Stuff Safe:
- Keep your belongings with you at all times, or leave them in a secure place.
- Avoid flashing around valuable items like jewellery to reduce the chances of becoming a target.
- If you’re carrying a bag, make sure it’s secure and close to your body.
No matter where you decide to go travelling, your safety should be top priority. Armed with the right information and attitude, you can be prepared to handle almost any situation and truly enjoy your journey.
2. Security First: What to Prepare Before Departing
Before you embark on your journey, ensure you have all preparatory security measures in place. After all, it is better to be safe than sorry! Here are a few tips to follow to make sure your holidays are as safe as possible.
Copies of Documents:
- Make photocopies of important documents such as passport, driver’s license and IDs.
- Scan any important documents and email a copy to yourself.
- Display hotel contact information in your device and keep a copy in your luggage.
Emergency Contact Info:
- Leave copies of your itinerary with family/friends so they know where you are heading.
- Program emergency contact numbers into your cell phone – both local and of people back home.
Remember to be Cautious:
- Choose hotel rooms that do not face the street.
- Do not wear expensive jewelry.
- Keep your passports, tickets, credit cards and cash in the hotel safe.
- Be aware of the local law and customs.
- Inform relatives or friends about uncertain situations.
Back home Safety:
- Leave a key with a neighbor in case of needing to enter your home.
- Make sure windows, doors, and the garage are securely locked.
- Stop mail and newspapers while away.
- Arrange for a house sitter to check your house regularly.
With these simple tips in mind, you can ensure you depart with peace of mind and return safely!
3. Guiding Principles to Follow During Your Trip
Travelling is a thrilling experience that broadens horizons and opens your eyes to the wonders of this world. That said, it’s important to obey certain principles while travelling, to ensure that your expedition is successful, safe, and enjoyable. Here are three guiding principles to always keep in mind while on the road.
Be Flexible
As much as you’d like to, you can’t predict every twist and turn your trip will take. Being too close-minded and rigid in your plans can ultimately hinder you from taking advantage of the sudden opportunities that arise. It may be wise to book ahead for some activities, while also leaving room for spontaneous adventures. By maintaining a balance between structure and chaos, you’ll be better equipped to encounter anything the journey throws at you.
Stay Open to New Cultures
Travel is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture and learn about the world beyond your front door. You might find yourself surrounded by unfamiliar foods, customs, and languages – don’t feel intimidated. Instead, accept each experience with an open heart and open mind. By doing so, you’ll gain invaluable insight into the unique cultures and customs of the places you visit.
Experience is the Greatest Souvenir
It’s possible to purchase a bevy of souvenirs when shopping in foreign countries, but none of these will ever compare to the memories you bring back with you. Instead of spending exorbitant amounts of money on tangible items, strive to garner priceless experiences – such as sharing a meal with a local, learning about a unique culture, and exploring a previously unfamiliar area. These will stay with you for far longer than any souvenir.
Respect the Locals
Although you don’t agree with all of the customs, don’t forget to be respectful towards the locals. After all, they’re the ones who contribute to the culture of the area, and who will make your stay memorable. Learn a few phrases in their language, even if you can’t fully understand it. Buy food from them, instead of from global chains. Embrace the differences without judgement. Remember, the world is a beautiful tapestry made from the fabric of many cultures.
4. Trusted Resources to Rely on When Traveling Abroad
- Apps & Guides: Download apps such as TripAdvisor,CityMapper, and Uber to get around town. Take advantage of digital travel guides too – Condé Nast has a great selection of trusted city guides.
- Official Tourism Website: Know before you go. Visit the official tourism website of the destination you’ll be visiting for helpful information on food, transportation, attractions, and more.
- Embassies/Consulates: Get in contact with the foreign embassies in your home country and keep up to date with safety issues in the country you’re visiting. The State Department provides a comprehensive list of foreign embassies.
- Reliable News Sources: Stay informed with the help of established, non-biased news sources. They’ll help you keep up-to-date with political, economic, and security developments in the country you’re visiting.
- Online Communities: Utilize helpful online forums and social media groups to ask questions about your destination. Fellow travelers will be more than happy to share their knowledge and tips to make your trip a success.
Stay on the safe side by doing research and asking for help through reliable resources before you embark on your journey. By doing so, you’ll give yourself peace of mind so that you can sit back, relax, and experience the exciting adventure abroad.
Whenever you travel, no matter how far, whether it’s in town or overseas, safety should always be top of mind. Taking the time to plan for potential risks can help you enjoy a secure, adventurous trip. With these tips for staying safe in mind, why not get out there and explore the world?
