Traveling is about fun and exploration. But when the media now warns of unsafe places to visit, you start to wonder… how safe are you really?
Luckily, there’s plenty of things you can do to keep you and your family safe. With a little know-how, you don’t have to sacrifice any of the fun.
Let’s look at 5 smart travel safety tips you can use on your next vacation.
1. Research Before You Leave
The first thing for staying safe while traveling, research the area you will be visiting. The more comfortable you are with the location and knowing what to expect will decrease your risk of becoming a target to thieves or scammers.
Get an idea of what the locals wear so you can dress to blend in. And plan to leave flashy jewelry at home.
Have a general idea of how to get to and from tourist sites from your hotel. Also, find out which areas to avoid.
And know where your local embassy is, in case you ever need to get to it in a hurry.
2. Prepare for Pick Pockets
Pickpocketing is a concern no matter where you are, but especially in heavy tourist areas. The key here is don’t make yourself a target and don’t make it easy for them.
Carry your wallet in your front pocket instead of the back. Wear your backpack facing front. And always look like you know where you’re going even if you don’t (fake it till you make it).
Anti-theft purses and backpacks are ideal for protecting RFID info. They have locking pockets and contain metal mesh to prevent your bag from a slash and grab.
3. Carry Personal Protection
Many people prefer to put their travel safety into their own hands. And carrying personal protection can give you peace of mind.
Items such as a stun gun, pepper spray, and tactical pen are easy objects to carry on you when out and about. Just make sure you know how to pack them when flying.
You can learn more here about which items are good for travel safety.
4. Get Travel Insurance
Accidents can happen. Luggage gets lost. Sickness does strike.
Be prepared for the unexpected, especially if you’re in a foreign country. That’s why travel insurance is so important. It will cover you in the event something goes wrong.
Many airlines offer insurance when booking your flight. Or there are separate travel insurance companies that offer premiums at low rates. Shop around to get the best deal.
5. Keep Copies of Emergency Numbers and Documents
The cloud is your best friend for storing copies of all your travel documents. In case they should ever get lost or stolen, having copies of your passports, drivers license, travel itinerary, and other documents are still available.
And keep all emergency numbers in the cloud as well. This includes the phone numbers to local emergency services for each place you’re traveling.
Travel Safety Tips Can Save Your Vacation
Don’t let thieves and scammer take away your vacation fun. Using these travel safety tips will give you back control and peace of mind. Now, go enjoy your trip!
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