There are few things as exhilarating as international travel. When you’re going to another country, it helps you appreciate the vast variety in cultures from one place to the next. A lot of people are too scared to depart from their own country however. Despite what you may assume, it’s not too difficult to remain safe when you travel. You just have to know the proper safety precautions. There’s some essential knowledge that everyone can use to their advantage; with this in mind, here are the top tips for international travel safety:
Getting Checkups And Vaccinations Where Necessary
You should always have a physical before traveling. It’s best to make absolute certain that you’re healthy enough to go abroad. You also need to look up the health concerns associated with the country you’re headed to. There are several destinations which require certain vaccinations before entry. It’s important to look all of this information up ahead of time, for your safety and convenience alike.
Copy All Of Your Important Documents Electronically
You’ll need a number of documents on hand when you travel internationally. According to Immigration Solutions in SG You should make sure to create electronic backups of anything pertinent, including your passport, insurance info, plane tickets, itinerary, travel Visas, immunization documents, and so on. Just e-mail the files to yourself and leave it at the top of your inbox. This way, you can easily bring it up on your mobile device if there’s a problem with your physical paperwork.
Make Sure Not To Carry Everything In The Same Place
You’re going to feel a bit light on space when traveling, tempting you to store everything in one place. Many people will keep important items like credit cards, cash, IDs, or traveler’s checks all in their wallet. Try not to do so unless it’s absolutely unavoidable. Instead, make sure to store anything you don’t need at the time in your hotel room’s safe. You should also keep your IDs and money in separate places on your person. This will make sure that even if something falls out or someone gets their hands on something, you won’t have lost everything.
Never Keep Anything In Your Back Pocket
On the same note, you should be aware that pickpockets are still a concern. It can happen to you literally anywhere, and tourists are always major targets. You should be sure never to keep anything in your back pocket, especially important articles such as hotel keys or wallets. If you do so, you run the risk of having someone snatch them with alarming ease. Just avoid this at all costs.
Look Into International Insurance Before Leaving
There are a number of different options available. You should be able to get free quotes from any travel agent. The rates will vary a bit depending on the length of your trip, how far you’re going, and your current medical history, but it’s a good idea to work something into your budget if possible.
Keep Everything In Front Of You
At times, you may find yourself wanting to sit your bag or purse down on the floor, possibly even behind your chair. It’s nice to take a breather once in a while. However, you should never place any of your belongings out of your line of sight. Your attention will be too divided by your new surroundings to notice if someone snatches something from behind you. If you have anything with straps, wrap them around your legs, and keep anything else clutched between your shins if possible.
Look Twice Before You Leave
Even if you’re as careful as can be with where you place your belongings, it’s still possible to get so caught up in the vacation and what you’re doing next that you might leave something behind. Even if it’s something as minor as your sunglasses, you want to make sure you never forget a personal belonging. So, it’s important to always look twice before you leave your current destination. This will help you make sure you have everything accounted for.
Leave Expensive Accessories At Home
You might feel the need to bring along nice jewelry or watches in order to look your best while traveling. You’ll probably be tempted to take a pricey new camera as well. It’s in your best interest to leave such things at home. Anything you have that’s particularly showy will only help make you a target for potential muggers or pickpockets. Dress for comfort and only take what you absolutely need with you; you’ll be much safer overall.
Never Talk To Anyone You’re Unfamiliar With
You’re going to come across a lot of people while traveling, many of whom will be friendly and engaging. It’s quite a thrill to meet new people. Even so, you can’t get overly carried away. The old mantra of not talking to strangers might help you while abroad. You don’t have to be unfriendly or rude, but use your gut instincts. If someone makes you uncomfortable, do your best to ignore them. Be sure never to take unsolicited food or drinks as well!
Don’t Give In To Panhandlers
Nations the world over have unfortunate poverty problems. You may easily find yourself in a situation where someone will try to take advantage of your kindness. You shouldn’t give up any of your belongings or cash however. It’s going to be difficult to brush off the temptation to help out, but it’s too much of a risk to get involved in someone who may try to run off with your wallet or even cause you harm as soon as you concede to assisting them.
Keep Your Priorities Straight
On the same note, it’s important to keep your priorities straight if someone does indeed try to mug you. Don’t try to fight. In many cases it will honestly be best to just give up what they want rather than put your life at risk. No amount of money or personal belongings are more important than your own safety. Just give up the items and then head to nearest authorities or US consulate to report the incident. With luck, you’ll be able to get them back. If not, your travel insurance may potentially cover the loss.
Be Careful At Internet Cafes
Internet cafes may seem like a breath of fresh air if you’ve been away from the computer while traveling. It’s going to be tempting to log in to check e-mails and social media accounts, but you should refrain if possible. Public computers are often targeted by cyber criminals that use keylogging software and the like. They can even get your credit card information. With all of this in mind, you should only use cash at an internet cafe and refrain from signing into any of your accounts.
