10 Ways to Stay Safe While Traveling

10 Ways to Stay
  Safe While Traveling

Staying safe while
  traveling abroad is always top of mind. Most people aren't dishonest, but
  those few bad apples or one unfortunate incident can blemish an amazing
  travel experience. We polled our travel specialists and created a list of
  tips for staying safe while traveling abroad.

 

  1. Don't look like a tourist - Many people have a perceived idea of
  what the quintessential American looks like; white sneakers, big camera, or
  sweatshirts with university logos. Staying away from these stereotypes when
  dressing can help travelers avoid drawing attention to themselves. Also, be
  wary of public displays of wealth - leave flashy jewelry and unnecessary
  expensive gadgets at home.

 

  2. Separate money sources - Don't leave all cash and credit/debit
  cards together as most do when they are at home. This is a safe guard against
  unfortunate events like theft - the phrase 'don't put all your eggs in one
  basket' is very true in this case.

3. Secure wallets and purses - Eliminate opportunities for theft. Make sure purses are closed and zippers are placed towards the front of the body. Never put wallets in back pockets or any other pocket that is easily reachable by others. Money belts are also an option, but what is most important is making money easily accessible to yourself but difficult for others to take without you noticing.

 

  4. Make copies of your important documents - Scanning and printing
  copies of documents and keeping them in several locations is very simple, but
  can be crucial if they are lost or stolen.

 

  5. Purchase travel insurance - There are many benefits to travel
  insurance but one of the biggest is ensuring medical coverage while abroad.
  Hospital bills can add up quickly, so purchasing insurance is vital.

 

  6. Don't leave your belongings unattended in public - This is true
  everywhere, but especially when abroad in tourist areas. Keep belongings with
  you at all times; for example don't place phones and wallets on the table or
  hook purses on the back of chairs when dining, and never leave luggage
  outside hotel doors.

 

  7. Avoid pulling money out in public - Take out wallets as
  infrequently as possible, and avoid showing large amounts of cash. This helps
  reduce the risk of being targeted for any foul play. With this in mind, we
  would encourage keeping small amounts of currency for minor transactions,
  bartering and tipping.

 

  8. Get familiar with the surroundings - A confident stride can make
  all the difference but not ending up in a bad part of town helps even more.
  To avoid this, study your map, talk to the front desk clerk, or examine your
  guidebook before venturing out. If you find yourself in an area that is not
  familiar or you feel threatened, go into a hotel or restaurant.

 

  9. Put away your belongings - Most hotels will be fine, but in those
  terrible incidences where you run across a dishonest person it is best to keep
  your belongings out of site. Leave them in your suitcase, put them in the
  hotel safe, or better yet, leave them at home it you can.

 

  10. Double check - There are many distractions while traveling. We
  also tend to carry more stuff - look around and double check that you have
  all your belongings before leaving anywhere.

  

  Thanks to Europe Express.