Pro-Tips for Safe Travel
Stay Safe Abroad
Updated July 2024
As someone who has had my wallet stolen while traveling abroad, I can tell you nothing spoils a trip like being the victim of a crime. This can range from the simple and inconvenient, like losing your wallet, to the dangerous, like kidnapping. And no one wants that.
After the recent unfortunate events experienced by 4 travelers in Mexico, it is a good time to revisit safe travel tips. These are my top pro-tips from research and my own experiences, both good and bad.
There are 3 main things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones:
1. Prepare for the unexpected
2. Stay aware while traveling
3. Don’t let it ruin your trip
Let’s dig into each one of these.
PREPARING FOR THE UNEXPECTED BEFORE YOU LEAVE
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
STEP is a free program provided by the US State Department. You basically are letting them know when and where you are going so if you need help they can assist you more quickly and easily. This may include replacing a lost passport or evacuating you if civil unrest breaks out, like in Peru in December of 2022. They will also keep you updated about safety concerns based on your destination.
2. Buy a money belt or bag to keep your items secure.
There are a wide variety of these on the market. Some that you wear around your neck, others around your waist. Choose based on your preference. When I went to Vietnam, I had a bag with a lot of compartments and zippers so someone could not easily reach in and grab my cash or cards.
3. Make copies of important documents, including your passport.
Leave 1 copy at home with a trusted person and bring 1 copy with you. This small step can save you a lot of time and stress in the unfortunate event you lose something. No one ever plans on it, but it does happen.
4. Locate where to get help nearby including the embassy, hospital or clinics.
Travel agents or hosts can help you find these resources.
STAYING AWARE AND EXERCISING CAUTION WHILE TRAVELING
1. Practice common sense measures like not being out alone at night and staying aware of your surroundings.
As simple as this sounds, it goes a long way to keeping you safe. Generally speaking, if women and children are around, the area is probably considered safe. If it is dark, deserted and you are alone, that is no good.
2. Be aware of tourist scams and pickpockets.
Different places tend to have different flavors of tourist scams and traps. For instance, in Vietnam it is common for someone to ride past you on a motorcycle and reach into your bag or take it all together. In other places like France, it is common for scam artists to offer you something “for free” then demand you pay them for the item. It is an unfortunate reality but it does not mean everyone out there is a scam artist. Just be aware that they are around and exercise caution. Trusted advisors, like a travel agent or your in-country host/hotel staff, can help you identify common tourist scams in the area.
3. Don’t keep all your cash and cards in one place.
This goes for while you are traveling into and out of the country as well. Split it up between a few bags or places that you will be able to keep a close eye on, like your carry on. Keep a majority of it in a secured place, like a locked box. Then when you go out to explore, take what you need plus a little more just for unexpected opportunities. That way, if you lose it, you do not lose it all at once. I wish I had done this when I went to France. I got pick-pocketed after leaving the airport and spent the first hour in our AirBnB canceling all my cards. Not the best way to start a trip.
4. If someone threatens you for your wallet or a personal item, just give it to them.
It is not worth fighting and you have no idea if the person has a weapon. Even if you have an important ID in it, just give it and figure it out after you are in a safe place.
DON’T LET IT RUIN YOUR TRIP
Last but not least, don’t forget to enjoy yourself.
Thinking about these potential risks or being the victim of one can really bring down the energy for a trip. However, the truth is these kinds of things can happen anywhere, even at home in the USA. Do not let this ruin your trip. A little preparation and awareness will go a long way to keep you safe. So prepare, stay aware and enjoy yourself!
Still have questions about your upcoming trip? Book a consultation with us now!
At Odyssey, we believe in making it as convenient as possible for you to get the care you need for travel. You already have enough on your plate to prepare for your trip. This part should be easy! We have been doing this for over 8 years. We know what you need and will answer your questions. We also are 5-Star rated on Google and provide excellent customer service to all international travelers in Washington State.
Are you ready check this part of your trip off your list? Then book an appointment with us now!
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