There are going to be times when you want to take a vacation but no one wants to come with you. Or maybe there’s going to come a time when you just want to get away on your own with no one to bother you. Whatever the case may be, you have to understand that safety should be your number one priority when you’re ready to have fun. With that being said, here are 11 ways to stay safe when traveling the globe:
#1. Let family and friends know
Before you even head out of town, give someone you trust and love an itinerary of the trip. That way, they know exactly where you should be. It also doesn’t hurt to let them know that you will keep in contact with them throughout the trip.
#2. Leave belongings at home
There’s no reason to bring the rings, expensive shirts and purses. No matter where you’re going, try to bring as little as possible. Think of it this way for a second. If you were to lose everything on this trip, would you care? If you care about something, leave it behind!
#3. Don’t forget your mobile phone
Even if your mobile isn’t going to work where you’re going, it doesn’t hurt to bring it. This cell phone can potentially be a lifeline if something were to happen. If you have an iPhone or Android, consider adding GPS software to it so that you can track your phone at all times.
#4. Get a money belt
If you’re carrying around a purse, you may become an easy target. To avoid this, consider investing in a money belt. This belt will clip around your waist and no one will even know it’s there. Store your credit card and money here so that you won’t become a target.
#5. Avoid the night
While it may be fun to hang around at night, you may want to avoid doing so. Try to avoid being at your hotel during the day and try your hardest to avoid the night time. Since you don’t know what’s going to be lurking around every corner, it’s just best to play it safe.
#6. Buddy Up!
Just because you’re going to go alone, it doesn’t mean that you can’t meet up with someone when you arrive. If you want to meet up with someone, consider looking for travel groups or ask in the local area at the hotel. If you can get into a group, this is a great way to have a safe and fun time.
#7. Avoid being touristy
Don’t show up and start whipping out the maps on the street. This is only going to make you look like a tourist and people can notice this very fast. If you have to, consider walking into a bathroom or somewhere private where you can research where you’re at.
#8. Trust your gut
Using your gut and common sense can save you from a lot of potential dangerous situations. If you see someone following you or even approaching you, it’s best to get to a public area or avoiding them. Don’t drink with strange men, avoid empty areas and always try to aware of your surroundings.
#9. Watch your hotel room
If possible, try to get a hotel room that is close to an elevator or even on a higher floor. That way, at night, you will find that you won’t have to walk down a long hallway. When in your room, always lock your door and be aware of your surroundings when walking to your room.
#10. Make a plan
Before you even head on your trip, try to make a daily plan. Know what you’re going to want to see, what you’re going to want to eat and where you’re going to be for the day. That way, when you get there, you won’t have to determine what you’re going to do for the day.
#11. Transportation
If you can, try to take a taxi or bus from one point to another. While walking can be a great way to get around, you have to remember that you’re more prone to people that may target you. If you do decide to take a taxi or bus, make sure that you’re dealing with a legitimate organization.