Traveling nowadays has been made easier by technology and mass transportation. Our easy access to the internet exposed us to plenty of beautiful travel destinations whether within our own country or outside. But nothing ruins a supposedly fun vacation more than getting troubles along the way! It is wise to be prepared for every possible issue you may encounter along the road. Here are our travel safety tips to help minimize your risk of having something bad happen while traveling.
Travel Safety Tips to Remember for 2023:
1. Familiarize yourself with common travel scams.
There will always be people who will try to trick you and they can range from being obvious to actual pros. Before heading out somewhere, make an in-depth research about it first!
2. Keep track of emergency information.
Have a handy copy of the local police, health care services, and directions towards transportation routes. In case of emergencies, you might be too panicky to think straight and gather this information. It is best you keep these in hand.
3. Check the Local Government website.
Most local governments in our country post regularly in their websites about the recent happenings in their area. There might be an outbreak or an ongoing civilian fight in the area. It’s great to know in advance so you know what to avoid.
4. Ask locals for advice.
Most locals are friendly and can warn you about their neighborhood’s dangerous areas. If you’re not comfortable with a random stranger, you can also ask your hotel’s receptionist.
5. Let people know your itinerary.
Do this along with a constant checking in with your loved ones. Update them often and let them know when you plan to come back. Just in case you don’t go home on the time you plan to, the authorities have a lead on where you’re supposed to be.
6. Don’t share too much on social media.
Someone with bad plans towards you can use your information to their advantage. Do not post your itinerary anywhere public as they could plot your next move. If someone asks, you can lie instead.
7. Don’t do it just for a photo.
Get yourself off the Instagram high of doing risky activities for the like. Know your limits and avoid anything that has high potential of hurting you.
8. Spend your money on what keeps you safe.
Although it can cost more money, splurging on more expensive but safer items will pay you in the long run.
9. Keep your belongings at your reach at all times.
Tether yourself to your bag. This prevents scams and robberies. Make the possible theft difficult for people.
10. Stay vigilant about your situation.
Being aware of nonverbal body language can help you along the road. Be confident when you’re walking on the streets, you will appear less likely to be an easy victim to attack.
11. Have an emergency cash stash.
Keep this one separate from your wallet. Just in case your bag or wallet gets lost or stolen, you can rely on your cash stash to help you get home at least.
12. Be careful where you eat.
A few trips to know where to eat is to observe where the locals and drivers eat. Look for where there are long lines and avoid anything served raw.
13. Forget you have a back pocket.
Your back pocket is the most vulnerable place of storage there is. It’s the first place any thief or pickpocket can access, so avoid using it entirely.
14. Have a first aid kit.
Injuries can happen wherever you are and can’t be prevented by being careful. Ready yourself in case something happens.
15. Avoid being inebriated.
When you’re wasted because of alcohol, you will have little to no control of what happens to you. This leaves you an easy target for bad situations.
16. Trust your gut!5>
Your body sometimes senses danger before your brain can fully comprehend it. If you feel like something is wrong, make a u-turn and leave immediately.
17. Always remember the exit.
Know your way outside of a street, a building, or a route.