In today’s ever-changing world landscape, it’s important to keep travel safety top of mind - but also not to let it diminish from gleeful anticipation of your trip. We wanted to touch briefly on some of the tried-and-true travel safety tips to consider, whether you’re traveling near or far.
1. Keep What You Hear in Perspective
It’s easy to get alarmed if you see negative news stemming from your travel destination. Instead, turn to your travel advisor, or another trusted source, to talk through what you may have heard in relation to a recent incident, or over concerns with ongoing crime and violence. They’ll be able to speak specifically to where you’re going and the reality of the situation.
2. Don’t Let Your Guard Down
In other words, be aware of yourself and your surroundings at all times. Relax and enjoy, of course, but - for instance - don’t set your bag down while you’re trying to snap that perfect photo. If you notice suspicious behavior in your surroundings, leave the area. Going along with this, if you are drinking alcohol, ask one person in your group to remain sober.
3. Travel with Reputable Companies
Part of the appeal of a new destination is the fun activities and tours that take you deeper into the culture and sights. Go ahead and book these experiences, but do so with reputable companies (another area in which your travel advisor will be a huge help). Read online reviews carefully and, if possible, get first-hand info from friends or family (or even friends of friends) who have been to the area before and booked similar tours.
4. Use the Hotel Concierge as an Expert
Because they are! Hotel concierges pride themselves on knowing their destination inside and out and are thrilled to share that information with you. This includes important know-how on which places to avoid going alone or at night. What may be a relatively safe place during the day can significantly change personality after dark.
5. Leave a Copy of Important Documents with Someone at Home
Not only should you have a copy of your passport, driver’s license, important in destination phone numbers and itinerary on your person, but you should also leave a copy with family or friends back home. You could also scan these documents and have electronic access, too. Check in from time to time so your contacts at home know you are where you’re supposed to be during your travels.
6. Be Aware of Petty Crime
Start by trying to blend in as much as possible in your destination, so that you’re less of an obvious target to pickpocketers. Consider a cross-body bag with additional safety features such as RFID blockers, locking zippers and slash-proof straps. Never leave backpacks or purses out of sight or unattended. It’s also advised that you look up specific cautions for the area you’re traveling in to see if pick pocketers or scams are common. Your travel advisor can point you to reputable sites.
Overall, doing just an hour or so of research will allow you to determine if you're comfortable traveling to your destination with these precautions in mind. A couple of good places to start: the State Department's website for country updates and enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Try not to get bogged down in the latest news cycle, remembering instead that crime and unforeseen occurrences can happen anywhere. In most destinations, the benefits of travel and new experiences may outweigh any risks. And if you still have misgivings about a planned trip, loop in your travel advisor. We’re here to help!