There is always one story or another about someone or groups of people taking advantage of travelers. This can range from reckless purse snatchers, identity thieves to very vicious criminals like kidnappers, rapists and sex traffickers. Based on this, we have compiled some international travel safety tips to protect you from banditry and criminals.
Traveling abroad is a great adventure that everyone would love to experience, but some things are more exciting than traveling abroad. Whether for work or vacation, traveling outside your country of residence gives you the opportunity to discover all the beautiful cultures of the world. However, you should always keep all international travel safety tips in mind.
Most people are reluctant to travel abroad, fearing that it will be dangerous. We can assure you that traveling around the world is very safe and adventurous. You should try it! Whether as an enthusiast or solo travelerThere are many safety tips that you need to learn and practice to have a memorable and exciting trip.
In this article, we will introduce you to 14 safety tips for international travel, while having a great trip. Let’s get started!
1. Don’t wear loud jewelry
Wearing flashy, very expensive jewelry can attract the attention of the wrong people, making you an obvious target for theft. You should leave all your strong jewelry at home, especially if you plan to travel to a busy area.
2. Drink responsibly
This has to be one of the most important international travel safety tips. Many people like to explore the local nightlife while traveling, which is cool. However, always remember that it is more important than ever to consume responsibly when traveling abroad.
When traveling abroad, you are more likely to get lost or find yourself in a dangerous neighborhood. Plus, being drunk will make you an easy target for thieves, sexual harassment, or worse. Additionally, women should never forget the golden rule of safe drinking in public: always keep an eye on your drink.
3. Be smart with your money
Most travel safety information will tell you that traveling with huge amounts of cash is never a good idea. Instead, open a bank account with a international bank or credit card company to use local services ATMs. Also, if you need to withdraw large sums of money at once, leave most of it locked up in your hotel room and take with you just what you need at that time.
When using ATMs, be sure to use those located in a banking area, as they are less likely to have been tampered with by fraudsters. Also, never keep all your money in one place, you can divide your money and credit cards into two or three different places. This way, even if one of your stashes is stolen, you won’t be left stranded.
4. Be Aware of Popular Scams
Always delve into your travel destination to get an idea of what local scammers are up to. Scams can range from RFID readers to plans to use children to beg for your help or money. You are not likely to fall for these scams since you already have an idea in advance.
5. Memorize the emergency services phone number
It is always advisable to find the emergency services number of your travel destination before traveling. It’s also a great idea to find and record the number of the nearest embassy to your country before you leave. You can decide to write them down or save them to your phone.
6. Use the right bag
Invest in crossbody bags, as they are more secure than shoulder bags or purses and can prevent people from grabbing them when running or walking past. Meanwhile, there are various lovely bags specially designed for travelers with features such as anti-cut straps, RFID blockersand lockable zippers.
7. Bring travel locks and use them
Make sure you travel with different types of security locks if you plan to stay in a hotel or hostel. Even if you’re not staying at either, having a travel lock that can secure your luggage will give you peace of mind. Additionally, you may decide to lock your bag to your seat or chair while dining or during transportation to protect your valuables from theft.
8. Always keep digital copies of your important documents
Your passport is probably the most important document you will have with you when you travel. Therefore, if your passport is stolen and you have a digital copy of it, this will make the process of getting a replacement easier.
9. Try to blend in
As a tourist, you should not carry large sums of money or valuables so as not to be vulnerable to scams. We recommend that you avoid looking like a tourist. During this time, you can dress like the locals and not stop in the middle of the busy streets to take photos.
In case you are wrong, try not to make it obvious. If you need to ask for directions or consult a map, pop into a store or cafe to do so quietly.
10. Use reputable shipping companies
One of the safety tips for international travel is to check with the most reputable taxi companies before your trip. However, if you share a ride using an app like Uber Or LyftMake sure you are alert and check your driver’s vehicle information. Also confirm their name before getting in the car with them.
11. Always check in with friends and family
Before you embark on your trip, try to let your family know your itinerary and update them if there is a change in plans. You must check in with a close friend or family member back home at the end of each day.
Although it may seem like stress, ultimately it’s better to be safe than sorry. If something goes wrong or a dangerous situation arises, you’ll get help faster because someone knows where you were supposed to be that day.
12. Be aware of your surroundings
You will always need to pay attention to what is going on around you when you travel, especially if it is a solo trip. Whether you are in a busy tourist spot or walking down a deserted street, always be vigilant. Thugs and criminals always target people who are distracted or disengaged from their environment. This is especially important for solo female travelers!
13. Trust your instincts
If you feel like being around someone or somewhere makes you uncomfortable, there’s probably a reason. Often our subconscious detects things that we are not aware of. This is why you must always trust your mind. instinctive feelings. Take these feelings seriously, they will help you stay safe.
14. Keep objects in front of you
Last on our list of international travel safety tips is to never keep your items out of your direct eye contact. Although you might be tempted to hang your purse on the back of your chair on the sidewalk. Or probably put your bags at your feet.
This is not ideal as your focus and attention shifts from your purse or bags to the new sights around you. Additionally, always keep your bags on your lap or in front of your feet under the table.
Conclusion
We sincerely hope that this list of international travel safety tips does not discourage you from traveling abroad. Instead, we think it will encourage you to take this journey and explore the world. Additionally, traveling around the world is very adventurous and does not have to be dangerous.