The Boogeyman exists… waiting for an unsuspecting target. Yes, the things that go bump in the night are real and just outside your door. Fear not, if you take initiative, you will outsmart that Boogeyman.
Your safety is my number one concern and should be yours. Safety should be the first thing that comes to mind when traveling. Seeing the world is a relaxing and enlightening experience however, you should always know your surroundings. But rest assured, after this post you will be a safety expert and have a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Table of Contents
Contact local embassy
After booking your flight and lodgings you should contact your local embassy to make them aware of your visit. Each country that you visit has an embassy for your country of origin. You can easily submit an online form with your travel information and emergency contact. In the US this is called (STEP) Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. This is a very important step that many people forget or don’t even think to do. Here is the official list of embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions for the US embassy.
Emergency Contact
While traveling you should carry with you your personal information and a list of people to contact in the event of an emergency. This should include your name, address (country of origin), phone number, emergency contact name, and phone number, any medical information example allergies/conditions, doctor name, and phone number, and passport number.
It is good to note that most cell phones have an emergency contact list that you can fill out as well for good measure.
Itinerary
A travel itinerary is also a must. It makes a great guide to follow as you go. It is best to have a paper copy with you as well just in case you do not have internet access or your device on hand. Another important step with your itinerary is to email or give a copy to your emergency contact. They can use this to know where you are and your status as you go. Also, have a contact schedule with them so if they do not hear from you they know that there could be something wrong.
Cell phone do’s and don’ts
Before traveling, see if your cell phone provider has coverage in the country or area you are visiting. There is also the option of buying a sim card once you arrive to your location. I did this in Peru and worked like a charm. Most of the time this is actually the cheaper method of service than an international add on. There is a cost for the sim card and you can choose the time you will need service and pay for only what you use.
People ask if having a cell phone service is necessary while traveling, the answer is yes. Like the saying goes, better safe than sorry. You never know when you might need to call for help or get lost and need a map. Don’t skimp out on this. Get service and don’t just count on your hotel WiFi.
Don’t walk around with your phone out. This is a must in any country. First, you look like a tourist. Looking like you don’t belong is not good. It puts a target on your head. Second, that device costs money. It can be snatched out of your hand in seconds. If you need to sneak a peek at your phone, don’t do it in the open.
Passport
Before departing on your adventure make two copies of your passport to bring along. You do not want to be walking around with it on your person while exploring your destination. You never know what can happen. If you lose it you are in a world of hurt and trouble. Carry around a copy of your passport and keep your original locked in a safe at your hotel. If you lose your passport, you can go to your country’s embassy and they will assist you in what you need to do to get home safely.
What else to carry or wear?
When traveling wear nothing flashy. Sorry, those Air Jordan’s aren’t a good idea. Those two carrot stud earrings might sparkle but not on your vacation. Even a wedding ring with too much bling isn’t a good idea. Don’t stand out more than you have to. Remember that Boogeyman we talked about. He loves to wear shiny and expensive things. Keep it at home. Traveling is a great time to take beautiful pictures. Be cautious, your $4000.00 camera is just like the bling. Crooks are looking for tourists with expensive equipment to snatch up. If you will carry it with you try to keep it hidden and take it out only when necessary.
Carry minimal cash on you. If anything happens, it won’t be detrimental. If you lose a credit card, you can freeze it and you can fight any fraudulent charges. I recommend getting a money belt with (RFID) radio-frequency identification blocker. It hugs close to your body and can be worn underneath your clothing.
Carry nothing that you think is valuable. Keep it at home or in your hotel safe. Another great item to carry is an anti-theft backpack. It keeps your valuables safe. A lesson to the wise, don’t get caught up with everything around you, monitor your valuables at all times. I have had friends who hung a purse or bag on a chair for a moment and it was gone.
Travel scams
None of us want to think we are gullible and become a victim. But there are professional scammers out there. They are good, really good at what they do. Before you know it your cash will be out of your wallet and into their pocket. Here are some popular scams at play.
Keep an eye out when traveling at public hubs like airports, train stations, tourist destinations, and popular restaurants. There’s always someone looking to make an easy buck. They often work in pairs so be wary.
Cab drivers have been known to scam. Make sure you order a cab from a reputable company or negotiate a set price before you leave. Or you could skip the cab all together and hail a ride-sharing service.
There is also the scam of gifts. Just remember there is nothing free in life. If someone speaks to you or tries to hand you something just ignore them or say no thank you and keep walking.
The scam of the helpful pedestrian. Are you with a group of people and at a tourist hot spot? Wouldn’t the family all together in the picture be perfect? Isn’t that nice, a local stranger is offering to take your picture for you? DON’T! Don’t give anyone your camera or phone. They could grab and go before you know it.
To sum up, traveling doesn’t have to be a scary experience. If you follow these few steps and listen to your intuition, your travels will reward and you will stay safe. Keep traveling and remember, we are in this together.
