Crime is a problem in most places in today’s world so it’s important that one makes personal safety a priority when undertaking a travel. These are some basic safety tips for travellers.
1. Stay Connected
If you plan to travel the first thing you should do is check that your mobile device has roaming capabilities as well as the costs involved. If not ensure that one you have reached your travel destination you obtain a rental device or alternatively purchase an international sim card should you have an unlocked GSM device.
2. Vehicle safety
Should you be driving during your travels always ensure that your doors are looked and all valuables are kept in the boot or underneath the car seat where they cannot be seen. This will help avoid car hijackings or “smash-and-grabs”. Take note of your surrounding when at traffic lights or stop streets. Should you opt instead to use a tour operator or travel service only use reputable ones and if unsure ask your hotel to recommend a service provider.
3. ATM safety
Never allow a stranger to help you with transactions when you’re using an automatic teller machine (ATM). Be alert and make sure that no one steals your card or sees your pin. Furthermore, when using credit card facilities in restaurants, request that the waiter bring a portable credit card machine to your table.
4. Keep Others in the know
As you travel regularly keep friends, family and hotel staff up to date with your whereabouts. They should also know where you are staying and have contact details.
5. Keep Money, Credit Cards and Passport Separate
Split up money and credit cards, some should be kept in your wallet/purse and others in a separate pocket. Also keep your passport separate from money and credit cards. It is always a good idea to travel with certified copies of important documents. Ask the hotel to store original documents in a safe. Should you lose your password on a travel report the loss as soon as possible to the local police as well as to your country’s embassy or consulate.
6. Research Your Destination
Do thorough research about your travel destination so that you are aware of local customs, dress codes and etiquette. Additionally researching your travel destination will allow you to determine which areas are unsafe.
7. Research Your Hotel
If possible avoid ground floor rooms where window entry is possible. Ensure that your lodging is in a safe area and has suitable facilities.
8. Health First
Before you travel, find out whether the water is safe to drink as well as whether there are any poisonous snakes, spiders or insects that you need to be aware off. Also make sure that you get the necessary vaccines. If you are taking part in activities such as sky diving, mountain climbing or diving ensure that your instructor is reputable and qualified.
9. Keep Your Wits About You
One of the thrills of travel is venturing into unknown territory however; one should never be distracted by their surroundings. Don’t get so taken by new adventures, sights and sounds that you let your guard down. Always keep your wits about you when in foreign territory.
10. Familiarize Yourself with Emergency Contact Numbers
Once you have settled on a travel destination make sure that you obtain telephone numbers for the local police services, ambulance, hospitals and fire departments. Should an emergency arise while travelling you must be able to contact the relevant emergency number immediately.
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