Many wish lists include world travel. Despite many people suffering from the fear of flying, millions of people around the world still travel to another country each year. Destinations like Rome, Paris and London are of course popular. However, it has become even more popular to travel to more exotic locations. Going on a trip to another country should be all about experiencing new cultures and having fun, but security travel and safety issues need to be considered as well. In unfamiliar places, tourists can get into tons of trouble, from having run-ins with less than friendly locals to catching a disease.
When countries like Great Britain in which cars drive on the left, there is even a risk of getting hit by vehicles. You can lessen your chances of getting into trouble by taking security travel precautions while you are away. Here are a few ways to stay safe as you go abroad. Careful Planning Counts When it comes to travel safety, find out all you can about the destination you are going to. After all, the last thing you want is to land in another country only to find out they are in the middle of a war.
Read all you can and make sure your documents, passport, visa and other requirements are valid, not expired and ready for travel. Leave copies of your planned itineraries with friends or family members. For those who are driving, make sure that you have an international driver’s license and the car you drive is in good condition. Get yourself a map or two of essential services, attractions and local routes. Consider joining travel assistance or travel clubs for extra safety measures. Safety in Packing Valuables should not be brought on international vacations. If you do bring a few, make sure you keep them in hotel safety deposit boxes when you leave. This includes your travel visas and passports. Rather than taking large amounts of cash, use a credit card or bring traveler’s checks as both are replaceable and traceable when lost.
Some countries may have rampant pickpocket issues so place your cash in various pockets and pouches, not just in one. As you travel, monitor all your belongings at all times. Never pay anyone who approaches you on the street for any reason as they could be scam artists. Your Health Every location has its own customs, culture and germs. Other countries have diseases that are different from yours, such as African sleeping sickness and malaria. Your immune system may never have been exposed to certain germs. Do research on the updated information on the diseases other countries have. You will find a list form the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Get the appropriate vaccines and find out from your doctor that you are healthy enough for traveling. Keep Your Personal Information Safe Personal information should never be shared with strangers. Be careful about interacting with others and do not give out any information. Politely leave the presence of someone who makes you feel uncomfortable. Travel with other people rather than by yourself and never invite strangers to your hotel room. Stick to areas with good lighting and limit night outings.