Safer travel: essential tips everyone should know

As people venture out to explore new places, there’s always a considerable risk involved on the road. It’s easy to get carried away with the excitement and let safety take a backseat. However, when it comes to travel, there’s no room for complacency. Whether you’re heading out on a solo trip or travelling with a group, you must prioritize your safety. While travelling may be full of risks, it’s essential to take precautions to avoid mishaps and ensure an enjoyable and safe journey. In this guide, we’ll provide you with essential travel safety tips to help you stay safe on your next adventure.

1. Do Your Research

Before beginning your journey, it’s essential to do some research on the destination you are visiting. Make sure you understand what the local customs and laws are and what potential risks you may face. Researching things like the local transportation system, security threats, common scams, and weather in advance will help you plan your trip better. You can also gather vital information on your embassy’s services, local emergency numbers, and hospitals. This way, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect and how to prepare yourself for any eventuality that may arise.

2. Secure Your Travel Documents

One of the most crucial components of any travel plan is to secure your essential documents. Make sure all your documents such as passports, visas, tickets, and identification cards are in order before you leave. It’s advisable to keep a digital copy of all these documents, which you can access from any device in case you misplace the physical copies. Keep all your travel documents in a travel document organizer that is secure and close to you at all times.

3. Keep Your Cash and Credit Cards Secure

Carrying cash is essential during travel, but it’s equally crucial to protect it. Keep only the essential cash with you while exploring, and store any extra money in a safe. It’s easy to get carried away with using credit or debit cards while travelling. Still, before you use them, ensure you can trust the payment system and avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to conduct transactions. It’s essential to have a backup way to access money in case your cards are stolen or lost, such as a prepaid travel card.

4. Stay Connected

Travelling to a new place can be a daunting experience for anyone. Staying connected with people back home can provide a sense of comfort and security. Ensure you keep all friends and family informed about your travels. This way, someone will know your exact location should anything happened. It’s also useful to have a mobile phone with you and know how to make calls in case of an emergency. Mobile phones are also useful for navigating around unfamiliar places in case you get lost or feel unsafe.

5. Book Your Accommodation in Advance

It’s essential to book accommodation in advance, especially in lesser-known places. Before booking, make sure you can trust the provider and check that the accommodation has security measures in place. Many hotels and hostels offer secure lockers, CCTV surveillance, and 24-hour security to ensure the safety of their guests. Staying at a reputable accommodation provider will provide you with a peace of mind that you’ll be safe at night.

6. Dress Appropriately

The way you dress while travelling can make a considerable difference in your safety. Dressing appropriately not only ensures you blend in with the locals, but it also reduces your chances of being targeted by thieves who may be eyeing up luxurious items. You should research beforehand what’ “dressing appropriately” means in your destination and pack accordingly. It’s essential always to have comfortable shoes that allow you to walk around quickly and easily without getting exhausted.

7. Stay Alert

When you are travelling in an unfamiliar area, it’s essential to keep your eyes and ears open. Avoid using headphones or focusing on your phone or camera for extended periods as it makes you a target for pickpockets and other criminals. Stay alert to your surroundings and try to walk confidently even if you are not sure where you are going. Mapping out your route ahead of time will make it easier to stay mobile and avoid hazardous areas.

8. Learn Basic Self-Defense

While you don’t need to be a black belt to travel safely, learning some basic self-defense moves could save your life in some situations. Taking a self-defense course is highly recommended if you’re travelling alone. You’ll learn things like how to escape from a chokehold, show your attacker you’re not worth their attention and make rapid strikes. Knowing even the basics of self-defense can give you the confidence to handle dangerous situations assertively.

9. Stay Safe on Public Transport

Public transport is often the most economical and efficient way to get around when travelling. However, it can often be a magnet for pickpockets and other criminals. Stay vigilant with your belongings on public transportation; don’t leave purses or wallets exposed, and avoid carrying large sums of money. It’s also wise to avoid travelling late at night on public transport in unfamiliar areas when it’s considered unsafe and open to potential risks.

10. Travel Insurance is Essential

Lastly, buying travel insurance is a no-brainer when it comes to travel safety. Many tourists overlook the importance of travel insurance. However, it can protect you from financial losses associated with unexpected events like stolen baggage, medical expenses and cancellations. Whether you’re travelling domestically or internationally, purchasing a travel insurance policy is a must to ensure you don’t end up paying financially for an unforeseen event that can quickly spoil your trip.

Finally, always remember that safety is paramount when travelling. Though there is a lot that can go wrong when travelling, it’s still possible to take preventative measures and minimize the risks. Keep in mind these travel safety tips, use common sense and trust your instincts, and you’ll be on your way to a safe and secure journey. So, pack your bags and travel prepared to have a hassle-free adventure!