Independent traveling can lead to incredible life experiences. Wherever you’re going, whatever you’re doing, if you’re going solo, always consider your personal safety.
Here are five safe travel tips:
1. Travel with companions
Avoid traveling solo constantly in every destination. Mix up your itineraries instead. Take short and long trips with travel companions or groups for variety and safety in numbers.
2. Inform the hotel of your adventure plans
In many European countries, if you’re heading out on a mountain adventure, it’s expected that you inform the hotel’s front desk of your plans. Should you be delayed returning or missing from the ski trip or hike, the hotel will know where to locate you and contact authorities if necessary.
3. Take your mobile phone
Pack your mobile phone or buy a pay-as-you-go model on-the-road. Mobile phones are an inexpensive way to check in with family and friends via text or voice. Wherever you’re going, a mobile phone can be vital in case of emergency.
4. Protect your personal travel documents
Passports, visas and other travel documents should always be strongly protected. If you’re carrying your documents, ensure they are secured in your carry-on bag. When you’re heading out on day trips, you could leave your documents locked up secure in hotel safes if available.
5. Invest in security-conscious gear
Visit your nearest travel shop and take a look at the latest, state-of-the-art gear. Ask about the most secure locks and luggage. Research online travel stores for hotel door alarms and other gadgets.
Photo of backpackers in London, UK, by Garry Knight
5 responses to “How to Travel Safe”
Report an inappropriate commentMay 26th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Great article, but I disagree with you last point. Investing in the ‘latest, state of the art gear’ is more likely to attract the attention of thieves than protect you from them. Plus it means you have more to carry about with you. I think that, when travelling, common sense is much more useful than hi-tech gadgets when it comes to safety and security and contrary ideas are usually pedaled by the very people trying to sell these things.
May 26th, 2009 at 1:03 pm
Excellent post. However, I agree with what Will have said that having the latest state of the art gear will just only entice thieves to get it from you.I think, having the first four travel tips mentioned above is enough to have a safe travel.
May 28th, 2009 at 12:06 am
The first 4 points are all great and I would advocate them wholeheartedly. There is one other thing to consider. There is a higher safety factor when you travel upscale. Now, there are never any guarantees, but you’re a lot less likely to encounter some kinds of problems if you’re staying at luxury resorts, etc.
March 4th, 2010 at 10:32 am
Excellent post. However, I agree with what Will have said that having the latest state of the art gear will just only entice thieves to get it from you.I think, having the first four travel tips mentioned above is enough to have a safe travel.
March 8th, 2010 at 4:06 am
I agree with all 5 points made above but to put your mind at ease don’t put your valuables where they can be taken by thieves. Carry your money, jewelry, credit cards and other valuables in your pocket boxer briefs. pickpocket proof and fast and easy access for stashing and retrieving when you need to. Actually having state of the art gear could act as a diversion. The thieves would be zeroed in on your gear and would never guess where your valuables really are. Even documents folded up would be carried on your person safely in this huge pocket.
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