How to Travel Safely
Traveling is great, but not when you find yourself mugged, scammed or harmed during the trip. Tourists attract all sorts of bad guys, that’s why every time you’re planning on going out of town, you have to take proper safety precautions. Here are several important tips you should keep in mind.
Familiarize Yourself With The Destination
Heading for New York or Japan may not end up thrilling if you find yourself lost among the bustling crowds in the streets. Do a bit of homework before you leave. Research where the tourist spots and the areas that are dangerous are. Find out which hotels offer comfort and security. You should even research on restaurants and places where you can go shopping. Here are other tips to keep in mind.
Learn the exchange rate of the foreign currency.
If possible, as someone who’s familiar with the place to accompany you.
Bring a travel map.
Learn the language. Even the most basic greetings or gestures will help you out.
Know where to go in case of an emergency. Be aware of where the hospitals and police stations are located.
Make Sure Your Means Of Transportation Is Safe
Some people opt for road trips, bringing along their own car to the destination, if it’s near enough. Before you leave, though, make sure that your vehicle is in top shape. Check the motor and the engine. Make sure the brakes work properly and all signal lights are working. It’ll be extremely unfortunate and dangerous if your car breaks down in the middle of the trip.
If you’re going by bus, airplane or by cruise ship, make sure you choose a reliable company known for their safe and comfy rides. You’ll be charged more, but at least you get quality and secure service.
Don’t Talk To Strangers
This is the oldest safety reminder in the book. Even the most harmless-looking of people can turn out to be the worst crooks. If someone becomes overly-friendly with you while you’re traveling, do not encourage him further. Avoid going with people you just met. If someone offers to share a taxi or to bring you to your hotel, say “no” politely. If you need assistance though, look for information centers or policemen within the area.
Bring Less Luggage
Luggage often draws attention. As much as possible, don’t bring too much during your trip. You might get mugged or you might lose them. Put all your clothes in one bag, then bring another one for your valuables (wallet, cellphone, camera, credit cards, passports, medications and other important stuff).
Bring Important Papers And Items With You At All Time
Identification cards, passports and other documents with your name and personal information on them should not be left lying around, not even in the hotel room. If these get in the wrong hands, you might find yourself a victim of identity theft.
Other Tips
If you’re traveling in a group, stick together. If anyone needs to leave for a while, always make sure he or she can contact the group.
Trust your instinct. If you feel as if there’s a certain place or person that can’t be trusted, avoid him or her.
Always let other people know where you’re going. Independent as you might be, it won’t hurt to have several trusted people know where you’re heading.
Don’t place all your money in your wallet, and especially not in your pocket. Put some in secret pockets on your jacket or bag.
Your home also needs to be secured. Ask someone to “house sit” for you. You can also entrust a spare key to a trusted relative or friend.
Many travelers encounter misfortune in the middle of their vacation. With these tips, you won’t be one of them and you’ll be secure throughout your trip.