Travelling can be an exciting and enlightening experience. It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of adventure. However, don’t forget the safety considerations when traveling abroad. Follow these 7 travel safety tips to ensure you have a memorable trip for the right reasons.
1. Research your destination thoroughly before you arrive. Read traveler reviews and ask locals to learn about the safest neighborhoods, places to stay, and crime rates. Visit the State Department’s website for country updates and enroll in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP). Another important safety precaution when traveling is knowing who to call in an emergency. Get the contact information for the nearest embassy or consulate, police station, and
other local emergency departments.
2. Don’t draw attention. People who appear to be from out of town are particularly prone to crime, so try to interfere as little as possible. Choose modest clothing that doesn’t stand out. Use discretion when looking at maps and approach people with caution if you need to ask for directions. Also, consider investing in protective clothing and gear that will make it harder for pickpockets to steal money and other personal items. If you are based in Greenford, then use the Greenford taxi service for your local transport.
3. Make Copies of Important Documents You never know when you might need a copy of your passport, driver’s license, or other ID. Scan these documents to store them online and print out multiple copies. That way you don’t have to look for the right papers when you must go home.
4. Keep your friends and family in the loop. Whether you’re going on an overnight trip or a month-long international trip, it’s always a good idea to tell your friends or family back home. Before you leave, send a copy of your itinerary to a few trusted people who may know your whereabouts. Check-in with your contacts regularly so they know you’re where you’re supposed to be.5. Be careful with public Wi-Fi networks. Don’t let the convenience of Internet access cloud your judgment.
5. If you use public Wi-Fi, hackers who want to steal valuable information can access your data, including your credit card or social security numbers. If you need wireless Internet service, set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to securely access the Internet on the go.6. Protect your hotel room Even if your hotel has strict security measures in place, there are steps you can take to make your room more secure. Lock and secure the door and keep the windows closed.
6. You can purchase a jammer, a handheld device that slips under the door to provide another layer of protection. Try to give the impression that you are in your room even when you are not, for example by posting the Do Not Disturb sign on the outside of the door and keeping the blinds or windows closed. Don’t let strangers into your room, even if they say they work for the hotel. You can always call reception to check if the hotel staff has asked someone to come to your room. If you are based in Greenford then use a taxi in Stanmore for your local transport.
7. Be aware of your surroundings Don’t let your guard down to snap the perfect picture for your social media platforms. Always keep an eye on your personal belongings and use good judgment when talking to strangers. A big part of the joy of traveling is the opportunities it affords to meet new people and learn about their cultures. But if someone near you is acting suspiciously, or if you feel uncomfortable, leave the area immediately. Following these tips can help you travel safely, but no matter how many precautions you take the unexpected can always happen. Stay protected with travel insurance from Nationwide and get peace of mind no matter where you go.
The breakdown with interesting stops makes the whole trip more exciting. Give the kids a map and timetable of your planned itinerary and route for them to follow. There are high expectations of a trip, don’t let that bother you. Trust the advice in this article as you plan your next trip. Educating yourself about traveling and the benefits that come with it can save you a lot of money.
