Having the ability to travel abroad gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in other cultures that you might not otherwise have exposure to here in the United States. To make the most of your trip and ensure your safety, here are some things you should do before and while traveling abroad.
Check in With Your Doctor
Make sure you are healthy enough for traveling abroad. Research the health concerns of the country you will be visiting. Different countries require that you have specific vaccinations before entering and you will need to provide proof that you have been immunized.
Don’t Carry Everything in Your Wallet
Avoid carrying too much cash, all your credit cards, traveler’s checks, or forms of identification in your wallet. Take only what you need with you when you leave your hotel room. Keep the rest locked away in the safe in your room. While you are out, separate your money from your identification and carry them in different spots. For example, keep money in your wallet and your ID in your pocket. That way if someone steals your wallet, you won’t lose everything.
Thwart Pickpockets
Pickpocketing is very common throughout the world and they often target tourists. Don’t put your wallet, hotel room keys, ID or money in your back pockets. Keep these things in your front pockets and in secure bags whenever possible.
Leave Your Jewelry and Expensive Electronics at Home
While you might be tempted to wear expensive jewelry on your travels, doing so could jeopardize your safety while traveling abroad. Wearing jewelry could attract potential thieves who think you are a worthy target. Flashing around an expensive camera or phone could also make you stand out among the crowd and make you a target for thieves.
Don’t Resist if Mugged
If you are mugged, don’t try to fight back. Quickly comply with the perpetrator and give them your cash, watch, phone or whatever they demand in your possession. Once you are free of danger, go to the nearby U.S. Consulate or police station to report the incident and begin the process of replacing any identification or travel documents that were stolen.
Have a Backup Copy of Your Documents
Create electronic copies of all your travel documents, passport, insurance cards, visas and health information before you go on your trip. Email this information to yourself and keep a copy of the email in your inbox so that you can access it if your documents are lost or stolen.
Be Wary of Strangers
While you will be talking to people you do not know on your travels abroad, it doesn’t mean that you should immediately trust them. Go with your gut, if someone looks untrustworthy, do not go off with them or accept food or drinks from them.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
It is a good idea to check what your existing insurance will and won’t cover while you are traveling. Not all health insurance policies provide international coverage. You will also want to ensure that your belongings are insured in case they are lost, stolen, or damaged.
SafeTouch Security cares about your safety beyond just in your home. It is better to be prepared before traveling than have to deal with these issues after the fact. Keeping these tips in mind will help you have a safe, exciting trip abroad!