Travel Safety Tips
Traveling to places that you are not familiar with can be quite scary. There are many instances where bad things can happen, such as robbery, murder and even rape. In most cases, tourists are targeted because they basically don’t know how to act and prepare in such a strange place. If you plan on traveling to other parts of the world, safety should always be your first priority.
Here are some tips that can help you increase your safety:
Always stay with your luggage whenever it is checked. You have to consider the fact that most robberies happen during this time. If you get tired and you need to put the bag down on the floor to let your arms and hands rest, step on the handle of the bag or even have a seat on it.
A small lock on the zipper also helps prevent robbery. It adds an extra “obstacle” to slow down would be thieves. Even though a small lock that can be easily pried open, they have been proven to discourage thieves.
You should always carry important documents and papers with you, such as your passport, driver’s license and everything that you cannot afford to lose while traveling. Never leave important or sensitive things in your luggage that need to be checked in. And, if you can, photocopy your important documents. Plastic zip-lock bags can protect items from moisture and exposure.
Travelers should remember to never draw any attention unnecessary from other people. This means that you shouldn’t wear anything shiny, such as gold jewelry, expensive watches, rings and other things that project affluence. And, if you can, try leaving your jewelry at home, especially if you are not really going to use it when traveling. Replace that Rolex with a Timex before leaving home.
It is not wise to wear signature clothes or branded shoes. This can attract the eyes of prowling thieves. Many countries strongly discourage the wearing of revealing clothes. Best to dress simple. A good idea is to wear what locals wear. This can be a unique opportunity to purchase a traditionally worn article of clothing as a souvenir.
Once you’ve made it to your room, make sure to use the in-room safe that is offered at most hotels and motels. Great for wallets, and small electronics. Use a combination you will easily remember.
Bring a handy flashlight. You’ll never really know when you will suddenly be in a situation where you will need some instant lighting. During the night, even in the hotel, always keep your flashlight beside you whenever you are sleeping. A heavy flashlight can even be used as a self-defense weapon which can be very useful if you come back to your room late or you’re passing through a dark alley.
If you need to take medications, always remember that it should be labeled accurately and it should be filled properly. Always ask your doctor to provide you with prescription as well as a document stating that you need to take the medicines. You have to remember that there are certain prescription drugs that are prohibited by some countries, so check ahead.
If you have asthma, hypertension or any kind of illness that can strike you anywhere, always have a solution to it. Bring your prescribed medicines from home. Never reach a point where you have to stop everything and be rerouted just to get you to the nearest hospital.
Plan ahead when it comes to over the counter remedies like anti-gas pills or sleep aids. Better have it on hand to prevent running around searching for hard to find/uncommon medications in a foreign land.
Never accept drinks from someone you don’t know (this is especially true if you are a women). And always keep an eye on your drink at all times. Realize that many unsuspecting women are raped and murdered because of drinking drugged beverages.
If you need to get local currency, never ever deal with exchangers that don’t seem reputable. Try asking the hotel staff or the information desk on the hotel on where to find a reputable money changer shop. Banks are often the most reliable, and they usually offer the best exchange rates.
Money in the undie. Yes, it can be uncomfortable but your underwear can be one of the safest places to stash your money. You can also hide money inside your socks or stockings.
It is our hope that by arming you with this information you’ll be safer and much more confident to go on your journey. Once again, safety first should always be your priority so that you can get back home in one piece safe and sound.
