Travelling abroad can be a fantastic way to discover new places, cultures, and people, but it also comes with risks and challenges. Whether you travel for business, leisure, or education, you must be prepared and vigilant to ensure your safety and security. According to the latest travel trends, overseas residents made 40.9 million visits to the UK in 2019, while UK residents made 93.1 million visits abroad. However, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has severely disrupted the global travel industry, and many countries have imposed travel restrictions and lockdowns to contain the virus. As a result, international travel statistics show a 74% decline in worldwide tourist arrivals in 2020. Despite the challenges, many people still have the desire and the need to travel abroad, either for essential or non-essential reasons. If you are one of them, you may wonder how to stay safe and secure while travelling abroad in these uncertain times. In this article, we will share some tips on how to do so based on the best practices and recommendations from experts and authorities.
Do Your Research Before You Go
Learn about your destination country's culture, laws, customs, and current situation. Check the travel advisories and alerts your government and local authorities issued. Avoid travelling to areas that are known to be unsafe, unstable, or prone to violence or natural disasters. For example, suppose you are planning to visit a country experiencing political unrest, civil war, or terrorism. In that case, you should reconsider your trip or postpone it until the situation improves. Also, find out about your destination's health risks and requirements, such as vaccinations, medications, and insurance. Some countries may have outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as malaria, yellow fever, or COVID-19, that require you to take preventive measures or show proof of immunization. You may also need to purchase travel health insurance that covers medical expenses, evacuation, and repatriation in case of emergency.
Plan Your Itinerary and Share It with Someone You Trust
Make a detailed plan of where you are going, when you are going, and how you are going. Book your flights, hotels, and transportation in advance, and confirm your reservations before you leave. Please keep a copy of your travel documents, such as passport, visa, tickets, and insurance, in a safe place and email them to yourself and someone you trust. Let your family, friends, or colleagues know your travel plans and how to contact you in an emergency. You can also register with your embassy or consulate in your destination country so they can assist you if needed. Additionally, you can use online tools or apps, such as Google Trips, TripIt, or TravelSafe, to organize your trip and access helpful information and resources.
Pack Smart and Light
Bring only the essentials and avoid carrying valuables, such as jewellery, cash, or electronics, that you don't need or can't afford to lose. Use a sturdy and lockable suitcase or backpack; label it with your name and contact information. Keep your essential items, such as passport, money, credit cards, and phone, in a secure and accessible place, such as a money belt, a neck pouch, or a hidden pocket. Make sure to leave your luggage unattended or accept packages from strangers. You can also use luggage tags, locks, straps, or trackers like Tile to secure and locate your belongings. Moreover, you can pack some items that can enhance your safety and comfort, such as a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a whistle, a travel adapter, a water bottle, and a scarf.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings and Follow the Local Rules
When you arrive at your destination, familiarize yourself with the area and the public transportation options. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or isolated places. Stay in well-lit, populated areas, and don't wander off the beaten path. Respect the local culture, customs, and laws, and dress appropriately for the occasion. Don't draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or accessories, speaking loudly, or displaying signs of wealth. You can also learn some basic phrases and gestures in the local language, such as hello, thank you, excuse me, and help, to communicate with the locals and show respect. Furthermore, you can follow some general safety rules, such as locking your doors and windows, not opening the door to strangers, not drinking tap water, and not consuming drugs or alcohol excessively.
Protect Yourself from Scams and Theft
Unfortunately, travellers are often targeted by criminals who want to take advantage of their vulnerability and ignorance. Be wary of anyone approaching you with an offer that sounds too good to be true, such as a free tour, a discounted product, or a charity donation. Don't trust anyone who asks for your personal or financial information, such as your passport number, bank account, or PIN. Don't use public Wi-Fi or ATMs that look suspicious or tampered with. If you suspect you are being scammed or robbed, don't hesitate to call for help or report it to the authorities. You can also protect yourself from scams and theft by being aware of common tricks and schemes, such as the fake taxi, the pickpocket, the distraction, the overcharge, the fake police, and the romance scam.
Stay in Touch and Have a Backup Plan
While travelling abroad, staying connected with your family, friends, or colleagues is essential, as updating them on your whereabouts and well-being. Use a reliable and affordable communication method, such as a phone, an email, or a social media platform. You can also use a VPN, a virtual private network, to encrypt your online activity and access blocked websites. Also, have a backup plan if something goes wrong, such as a flight cancellation, a medical emergency, or a lost passport. Know who to contact and what to do in different scenarios and have some extra money and resources ready. For example, you can have a list of emergency numbers, such as the local police, the ambulance, the embassy, and your bank. You can also have a copy of your passport and a spare passport photo if you need to replace it.
Be Flexible and Adaptable
Travelling abroad can be unpredictable and challenging, and you may encounter unexpected situations or difficulties. Instead of panicking or complaining, try to be flexible and adaptable and look for solutions or alternatives. For example, if your flight is delayed or cancelled, you can ask your airline or travel agent for a refund or rebooking. If your hotel is overbooked or unsatisfactory, you can look for another accommodation or negotiate with the manager. If you need help or clarification, you can ask for directions or assistance from a local or a fellow traveller.
Be Respectful and Courteous
Travelling abroad is an opportunity to see new places, experience new things, meet new people, and learn from different cultures. Therefore, you should be respectful and courteous to the people you encounter and avoid any behaviour or attitude that may offend or disrespect them. For example, you should not take photos or videos of people without permission or touch or disturb their religious or cultural artefacts. You should also not make any assumptions or judgments about their beliefs, values, or lifestyles or impose your views or opinions on them.
Be Adventurous and Curious
Travelling abroad is also a chance to challenge yourself and expand your horizons, and you should take advantage of it. Be adventurous and curious and try new things or activities that interest or excite you. For example, you can try a local dish or delicacy, learn a local skill or craft, join a local festival, or event, or explore a local attraction or landmark. You can also interact with the locals and other travelers and exchange stories, ideas, or tips. You may discover something surprising or make new friends or memories.
Have Fun and Enjoy Yourself
Finally, travelling abroad is supposed to be fun, and you should remember that. Have fun, enjoy yourself, and make the most of your trip. Don't let the stress or worry ruin your mood or experience. Don't let the fear or doubt hold you back or limit you. Don't let the mistakes or regrets bother you or haunt you. Instead, focus on the positive and the present and appreciate the world's beauty and diversity. Celebrate the joy and the wonder of travelling abroad.
Conclusion
Travelling abroad can be a wonderful and enriching experience, but it requires some preparation and caution. By following these tips, you can minimize the risks and maximize the benefits of your trip. Remember, safety and security are both your responsibility and your right. Happy travels!
