Taking the time to travel and explore distant lands offers an enlightening experience unlike any other. Although international travel can be exhilarating, it poses numerous safety concerns that prospective globetrotters need to take into account. This article provides important do’s and don’ts safety advice for international trips.
# DO Take Note of Local Laws and Customs
Understanding the legal and cultural norms of your destination country is essential. Take time to familiarize yourself with the dress code, local customs, and laws applicable to visitors. This does not only honor the local culture, but it also avoids potential legal complications. Avoid cultural appropriation and offensive behaviors to ensure you not only remain safe but also respectful of the local culture.
# DON’T Ignore Travel Advisories
Keep track of the international travel advisories issued by government agencies. They provide up-to-date information on safety and security, health risks, entry requirements, and other emergency contacts. Ignoring these advisories can lead you to deal with unforeseen health, safety, or legality issues abroad.
# DO Have Copies of Your Travel Documents
Always have copies of your travel documents, including passports, visas, insurance policies, and flight tickets. Either carry physical copies or store a digital copy online for easy access. If you somehow lose your travel documents, a backup can be a lifesaver.
# DON’T Flaunt High-Value Items
Flaunting high-value assets in public, like expensive jewelry or high-tech gadgets, could turn you into an easy target for thieves. Try to blend in with the locals and do your best not to attract unwanted attention. Also, securely lock your valuable belongings in your hotel safe.
# DO Get Travel Insurance
A widely agreed-upon travel safety advice is the importance of investing in travel insurance. It covers unexpected emergencies like health issues, last-minute trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unfortunate events. Check whether your coverage is comprehensive enough for your destination and the activities you plan to do.
# DON’T Check Vital Medication
If you have any medical conditions requiring specific medications, always carry these with you in your carry-on luggage. Checked luggage can get lost or delayed, risking your health. Always keep your prescriptions handy, and check whether your medications are legal in your destination country.
# DO Use Verified and Safe Transport
Using reliable and verified transport methods will help you avoid unnecessary risks. Be wary of offers for cheaper rides or non-approved transport operators that could be unsafe or fraudulent. Make use of hotel transportation or taxis from authorized taxi ranks.
# DON’T Share Too Much on Social Media
While sharing your travel highlights can be exciting, doing so could also alert potential burglars that your home is unoccupied. Also, sharing your exact location can make you an easy target for perpetrators. Strive to maintain a healthy balance between sharing your experiences and protecting your safety, both at home and abroad.
# DO Prioritize Personal Hygiene
Maintaining hygiene while travelling, in particular hand hygiene, is vital to prevent illnesses. Carry sanitizers or wipes and avoid contact with surfaces potentially contaminated with viruses or bacteria.
# DON’T Consume Unreliable Street Food
Experiencing local food is an essential part of travelling. However, avoid street food vendors, especially in countries where foodborne illnesses are common. Look for restaurants with high turnover rates, indicating the food is fresh.
# DO Respect the Environment
Following a sustainable travel approach shows respect for the environment and locals. Dispose of waste properly, avoid single-use plastic, and respect local fauna and flora.
As an overall advice, being open and receptive, yet cautious and informed would make your international journey safe and enjoyable. Embarking on international travel makes individuals global citizens, bringing the world closer. By taking appropriate precautions, every travel experience can become a memorable journey.
