Do Your Research: Before you travel, research your destination thoroughly. Learn about local customs, important sites, rules, regulations, and the latest news. Also check for travel advisories from your government.
Health Precautions: Depending on where you’re traveling, you might need certain vaccinations. Check this with your doctor or a travel clinic a few months before you leave. Don’t forget to pack a basic first aid kit, and ensure you have adequate supplies of any prescription medicines.
Travel Insurance: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers any potential accidents, health issues, and trip cancellations.
Secure Your Valuables: Keep your valuable items secure and concealed. If possible, use the safe in your hotel room for items like passports and expensive electronics.
Pack Smart: Don’t pack more than you can carry on your own. Keep a change of clothes and important medication in your carry-on in case your checked luggage gets lost.
Keep Important Documents Handy: Keep copies of your passport, visas, driver’s license, and any other important documents in a separate place from the originals. It’s also wise to leave copies with someone trustworthy at home.
Stay Connected: Make sure at least one person back home has a copy of your itinerary and knows how to reach you in an emergency. Consider getting an international SIM card or a local one at your destination to ensure you have internet and can make calls.
Money Matters: Inform your bank that you’ll be traveling abroad to avoid any security blocks on your credit or debit card. Have a mix of cash and cards, and have some emergency funds stashed away separately.
Be Cautious with Food and Water: In some places, it’s safer to drink bottled water. Be careful with street food or uncooked foods, depending on where you are.
Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of the local culture and customs. Not only is this polite, but it can also prevent you from accidentally breaking laws or regulations.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Especially in crowded areas, be cautious of your surroundings to avoid pickpockets or scams.
Plan for Emergencies: Know the location and contact information of your country’s embassy or consulate in your destination country.
Follow COVID-19 Guidelines: Depending on the ongoing situation, adhere to the local COVID-19 guidelines including mask wearing, social distancing, and vaccination or testing requirements.
Public Transport and Driving: If you plan on using public transport, understand the system beforehand. If you’re driving, make sure you’re aware of the local road laws.
Hotel Safety: Make sure your hotel is in a safe location. Always keep your hotel room door locked and never open it for someone you don’t know.
Avoid Oversharing on Social Media: It can be tempting to share all your travel plans and experiences on social media in real-time. However, doing so could make you a target for theft. Consider sharing your photos and experiences after you have returned home.
Dress Appropriately: Dress according to the customs and traditions of the country you are visiting. In some places, dressing in a way that’s considered inappropriate could get you unwanted attention, or even lead to legal issues.
Stay Sober: While you might want to enjoy some local drinks, it’s essential to know your limits. Being intoxicated can make you an easy target for crimes like theft and assault.
Take Care of Your Health: In addition to vaccinations, take measures to prevent common health issues related to travel. This could mean using bug spray to prevent insect-borne diseases, or wearing sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn.
Be Cautious When Making New Friends: While meeting new people is one of the best parts of traveling, be cautious. Be wary of people who seem overly friendly or offer deals that seem too good to be true.
Use Trusted Transportation Providers: Use official taxis or reputable ride-sharing services, especially at night. Be aware of common scams involving unlicensed taxis or rides.
Safe Digital Practices: Use VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks to ensure your personal information is secure. Be aware of ATM skimming devices and only withdraw cash from machines in reputable locations.
Participate Safely in Activities: Whether you’re trying a new sport or exploring a natural attraction, make sure you have the right equipment and follow safety guidelines.
Know Local Emergency Numbers: Learn the local emergency phone numbers, as they vary from country to country. Having these numbers at your fingertips can save precious time in case of an emergency.
Travel in Groups When Possible: There’s safety in numbers. Try to travel in groups, especially at night or in less touristy areas.
Know Your Rights: Be aware of your rights as a traveler or tourist. If you find yourself in a legal situation, having a basic understanding of local law can be immensely helpful.
Maintain a Low Profile: Try to blend in as much as possible. Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry, cameras, or mobile phones.
Understand Common Travel Scams: Scams can be prevalent in high-tourist areas. Do your research beforehand to understand common travel scams in your destination and how to avoid them.
Use Credit Cards Instead of Debit Cards: Credit cards generally offer better fraud protection than debit cards. If your card information is stolen, credit card companies are usually better about limiting your liability for fraudulent charges.
Use Official Border Crossings: If you’re traveling overland, always use official border crossings. While less-used crossings may be quicker, they may also be less secure.
Be Careful with Personal Information: Be mindful of where and to whom you give your personal information. Only give your details when it’s necessary and to reputable organizations.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can make you feel unwell and more susceptible to illness. Make sure you’re drinking enough water, but be sure it’s from a safe source.
Be Aware of Altitude Sickness: If you’re planning to visit a high-altitude location, make sure you understand the symptoms of altitude sickness and how to prevent it.
Plan for the Weather: Pack appropriately for the weather conditions of your destination. This includes clothes as well as any necessary gear like rain jackets or sunblock.
Avoid Political Demonstrations: It’s best to avoid getting involved in any political demonstrations or large gatherings, which could unexpectedly turn violent.
Respect Wildlife: If you’re in a place where you will be near wildlife, be sure to keep a respectful distance. Never feed wild animals, and follow all local rules and guidelines.
Watch Your Luggage: Always keep an eye on your luggage and never leave it unattended in public areas. Also, never carry items abroad for other people.
Bring a Power Adapter: Different countries have different types of outlets and voltages. Bringing a universal power adapter will ensure you can safely charge your electronics.
Be Respectful of the Environment: Make sure to follow local guidelines related to environmental conservation. This could include not littering, staying on marked trails, or not touching coral reefs while diving or snorkeling.
Avoid Late Night Travel: If possible, avoid arriving in a new city late at night, when public transportation might be more limited and navigating a new place is more challenging.
Learn Basic Local Phrases: Learn some basic phrases in the local language of your destination. It’s helpful to know the words for “help,” “food,” “water,” “hospital,” etc.
Avoid Secluded Areas: Especially if you’re alone or it’s night, avoid deserted areas or places where you don’t see many people around.
Keep an Eye on Your Drinks: Never leave your drink unattended, and only accept drinks that you’ve seen made in front of you. This can help to avoid becoming a victim of drink-spiking.
Avoid Flashy Displays of Wealth: This includes wearing expensive jewelry, flaunting cash, or even showing expensive electronics. These displays can attract thieves.
Follow Local Advice: Locals will know their area best. If they suggest avoiding certain areas, or have tips on where to go, take their advice seriously.
Check In Regularly: Regularly let someone know that you’re safe, whether that’s a local contact or someone back home. If something were to happen to you, people would realize much sooner if they’re expecting regular contact.
Carry a Physical Map: While digital maps on your phone are extremely useful, having a physical backup can be a lifesaver if you run out of battery or lose signal.
Be Prepared for Different Toilets: In many countries, the toilets can be very different from what you’re used to. Carry tissues, hand sanitizer, and even a small towel for drying hands.
Prepare for Jet Lag: Long-haul travel can lead to severe jet lag. Be aware of this and give yourself time to rest and recover after a long flight.
Have Multiple Forms of Money: Don’t rely on just one card or cash. Have a mix of both, and possibly more than one card, in case one gets lost or stolen.
Take Care of Your Mental Health: Traveling can be stressful and sometimes lonely. Make sure to take care of your mental health, taking time to relax and connect with people back home if necessary.
Know Your Limits: Whether it’s trying local foods or participating in adventure activities, always know your limits. Don’t feel pressured to do anything you’re not comfortable with.
Travel with Trusted Companies: From airlines to local tour companies, make sure you’re traveling with reputable companies that prioritize the safety and well-being of their customers.
Have Emergency Contacts Saved: Not just the emergency services in the country you’re in, but also the contact details of your next of kin, insurance company, etc.
Familiarize Yourself With Local Laws and Customs: What’s legal and considered polite in your country might not be in another. Be aware of the local laws and customs to avoid any unintentional violation.
Use Technology Wisely: Utilize travel safety apps that can help you navigate unfamiliar locations, translate languages, and provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies.
Plan Your Route: If you are going to explore, plan your route beforehand. Try not to look lost even if you are. Looking lost can make you an easy target.
Watch Out for Your Belongings at Security Checks: Keep an eye on your belongings as you go through airport security. It’s easy to leave items behind in the bins or for them to be accidentally (or purposely) taken by someone else.
Don’t Trust Strangers Blindly: It’s okay to make new friends, but don’t put blind trust in them. Be wary of those who are overly eager to help you, as they might have ulterior motives.
Use Secured Wi-Fi Networks: Public Wi-Fi networks are often not secured, making it easy for hackers to access your personal information. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) whenever possible.
Don’t Give Out Personal Information: Never give out your home address or other personal information to strangers you meet while traveling.
Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise, even while travelling, helps maintain your physical health and boosts your immune system.
Know the Local Scams: Every country has its own set of scams that target tourists. Do some research beforehand to familiarize yourself with these to avoid falling for them.
Prepare for Sea Sickness: If you are traveling by boat or ship, take necessary precautions to handle seasickness.
Travel With a Doorstop: A simple doorstop can provide extra security for a hotel room door, especially those that open outward.
Check for Bed Bugs: When you arrive at your accommodation, it’s wise to check for bed bugs before unpacking. Look in and around the bed, including the mattress seams, bed frame, and headboard.
Walk With Confidence: Even if you’re unsure of where you’re going, walking confidently can deter potential wrongdoers.
Learn Basic Self-Defense Moves: Knowing a few basic self-defense techniques can provide some peace of mind when traveling in unfamiliar places.
Avoid Unnecessary Conflict: It’s best to avoid any form of conflict while you’re in a foreign country. If a situation starts to escalate, it’s often best to walk away.
