Having safe travels tends to be the main concern for people who haven't traveled before. While the world is generally safe, these are some of the tips that I recommend for you to have safe travels and a journey that is problem free.
1. Carry A Fake Wallet
If by chance you do get robbed, throw a wallet that has expired credit cards and a bit of cash as far from yourself as possible and run. Also, don't keep all of your credit cards and cash in one place. I usually place a credit card and some cash in my hotel safe or in a good hiding place if there is no safe. If something happens to your real wallet, you at least have a backup way to get cash.
2. Be Observant
It's very easy to get caught up in your new surroundings and not be as observant as you are back home. Look around you if you are walking alone and make sure that no one is following you. Also, make sure to always keep track of your belongings. It's easier to become distracted when you travel and to misplace and lose your belongings.
It's also a good idea to travel with bike locks for your luggage. This way, you can attach your luggage to a stationary object if you ever have to leave it alone.
3. Leave Your Expensive Jewelry At Home
If you are wearing expensive jewelry, it can make you more of a target for robbery. Also, it's one of the most commonly stolen items in hotel rooms. To ensure safe travels, it's best not to travel with expensive jewelry or items but to leave them at home.
4. Don't Keep Valuables In Your Pockets
Pickpockets can remove your belongings without you even feeling it. If you have a secret pocket, use that or wear a money belt. Also, if you carry a purse, keep a close watch on it. Some pickpockets have even used razors to slice out the bottom of purses.
5. Make Copies Of Your Passport And Credit Cards
If your passport or credit cards become lost or stolen, it will be easier to replace them if you have copies. Make copies of the back of your credit cards too, so you have the phone numbers of the credit card companies within easy reach.
6. Visit A Travel Clinic Before Departing For Your Destination
Did you know that most places in the world have travel clinics? Travel clinics are great because they will know exactly what vaccines or shots that you will need to have before traveling to your destination. They will also prescribe you malaria medicine should you need it and an antibiotic to carry in case of traveler's diarrhea. It's great to arrive at your destination with everything that you might need should you get sick.
7. Look Up The Travel Warnings For Your Destination
8. Make Sure That Your Adventure Activities Are Done With Reputable Companies
Many countries don't have the same safety standards that you may be used to. If you are scuba diving, bungee jumping, sky diving or participating in any other risky activities, make sure you check out the safety records and qualifications of the company first.
9. Do Not Tell Strangers Your Travel Plans
This is good advice to follow especially if you are traveling alone. I never tell anyone the hotel where I'm staying. If I want to meet up with someone, then I pick a public place. I never let them meet me at my hotel. You just don't know who you are meeting on the road, and it's better to be safe than sorry.
10. Don't Use Credit Cards Or Look At Your Banking Information In Internet Cafes
The computers in internet cafes can have key logger software installed without you even knowing it. The internet connection also is usually not secure. Don't risk letting someone steal your information and possibly your identity.
Hopefully these tips for safe travels will help you to be more aware and have a safe vacation. If you have any other suggestions, please leave a comment below!
