10 Travel Safety Tips Everyone Should Know
Summer is around the corner and we know most people would be travelling to different amazing locations. However, safety is important when travelling and we hope you’ll be practising the following safety tips.
1. Be Aware of Popular Scams
Research the place you’re visiting to see what the local scammers are up to. Scams range from RFID scanners to ploys using children to play on your sympathy. You’ll be less likely to fall for these scams if you’ve heard about them ahead of time.
2. Know The Phone Number for Emergency Services
Be sure to look up the emergency services number for your destination, even before you get there. It’s also a good idea to look up the number for your country’s nearest embassy before you leave. Write them down or save them in your phone so you’ll have quick access to them in the event of an emergency.
3. Use the Right Bag
Cross-body bags are safer than shoulder or hand bags and can prevent people from grabbing your bag as they run or drive by. There are tons of bags made specifically for travelers with features such as slash-proof straps, RFID blockers, and locking zippers. Invest in a good bag that suits your needs and preferences.
4. Bring Travel Locks & Use Them
You can save a few bucks by coming prepared with your own lock if you plan to stay in a hostel. Even if you’re not staying in a hostel, having a travel lock that can secure your bag to your seat or chair while dining or in transit will help keep your valuables safe from theft.
5. Keep Digital Copies of Important Documents
When traveling, your passport may be the most valuable thing you carry. In the event of a stolen passport, having a digital copy will help make the process of getting a replacement easier. This is one of the important travel safety tips to keep in mind.
6. Try to Blend In
Tourists tend to carry larger amounts of cash and valuables and are more vulnerable to scams. Try to avoid being an obvious tourist. Dress as the locals do, don’t stop abruptly in the middle of busy streets to take photos, and even when you’re lost try not to make it apparent. If you need to ask for directions or consult a map, step inside a shop or cafe to do so.
7. Use Reputable Transportation Companies
Research which taxi companies are reputable before you arrive in a place, and use only those. If you’re ride-sharing using an app like Uber or Lyft, double-check your driver’s vehicle information and verify their name before you get in the car with them.
8. Check in With Friends & Family Often
Before you leave, let someone know your itinerary, and update them on any change of plans. Make a habit of checking in with a close friend or family member back home at the end of each day. This can seem like a hassle, but ultimately it’s better to be safe than sorry. If something terrible were to happen, you’ll get help faster if someone knows where you were supposed to be that day.
9. Be Friendly but Not Over-Trusting with Strangers
However friendly a stranger might be, don’t be quick to trust them completely. Let’s face it, it’s hard to completely know someone’s intentions in the shortest amount of time. So, instead of telling them which hotel you’re staying at, choose to tell them about a neighbouring hotel in the city. And if someone asks whether it’s your first time visiting that area, say no or go with the “you’re visiting family and friends” line. If that person was planning to make you a target, he might change his mind and move on to the next target.
10. Make Sure Your Hotel Room is Locked Twice with the Key & Chain
Make sure you lock your door not just with the hotel key given to you but also with the door knob or key chain, to avoid people from using the master key at the hotel to have access to your room.
There you have it, 10 safety tips you should definitely consider when travelling. Please make sure you try them out on your next vacation and add some from here too.
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