I get a lot of questions about how I stay safe while traveling. Honestly, I've learned a lot through experience! To help others, I put together this guide with essential safety tips for your next trip. Check it out and enjoy!
Before You Go
Research your destination: Dig into the safety situation, common scams, local laws, customs, and any potential health risks. Check government travel advisories (like the US State Department's site) for up-to-date information.
Make copies of important documents: Scan your passport, ID, travel insurance, and credit cards. Keep one copy with you, and email a copy to yourself or leave one with a trusted contact.
Inform your bank and credit card companies: Let them know where you're traveling so they don't flag unusual charges.
Get travel insurance: Consider trip cancellation, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance for peace of mind.
Learn basic phrases: Knowing a few key phrases in the local language can help in a pinch.
Pack smart: Bring necessary medications, a basic first-aid kit, and adaptors if needed.
During Your Trip
Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and avoid distractions like being glued to your phone screen. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
Don't flash valuables: Keep jewelry, expensive cameras, and excessive cash out of sight.
Secure your belongings: Use a money belt or a hidden pocket, and choose accommodation with in-room safes where possible.
Use reputable transportation: Research licensed taxis and ride-sharing apps beforehand.
Blend in: Avoid looking like a stereotypical tourist. Dress modestly and try to minimize obvious signs of being a foreigner.
Avoid traveling alone at night: Especially in unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit, populated routes when possible.
Inform someone of your plans: Let your accommodation or atrusted friend know your whereabouts and when you expect to be back.
Technology & Connectivity
Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks: Public Wi-Fi is vulnerable to hacking. Use a VPN or your phone's data for things like banking.
Travel with a power bank: Keep your phone and other devices charged in case of emergencies.
Consider a local sim card: This can be helpful for maps, translation apps, and emergency contact purposes.
In Case of Emergency
Know the local emergency numbers: Have the numbers for police, ambulance, and your country's embassy or consulate saved in your phone and written down.
Carry a small amount of local currency: This can be useful for taxis or purchases if needed.
If you become a victim of a crime: Seek immediate help from local authorities. Report the incident to your embassy or consulate, and get a copy of the police report for insurance purposes.
Additional Tips
Respect local customs: Dress appropriately for cultural or religious sites, and familiarize yourself with local etiquette.
Be food and water conscious: Drink bottled water in areas where tap water is unsafe, and be cautious with street food to avoid food poisoning.
Trust your instincts: If a person or situation makes you feel uneasy, remove yourself or seek help from a trustworthy person.