Safety travel is something that everyone has questions, concerns and fears. It’s not something you should worry about if you have some common sense, preparation and precaution.
Although specific security details can vary depending on location, situation, type and travel, the same travel security tips will apply to weekend getaways as for exotic adventures. We asked our friends, the global security experts Robert Macpherson, and Veronica Kenny Macpherson, of Cosantoir Group for their top travel tips and safety and security tips.
These are 10 tips for travel security to help you and your valuables stay safe.
- Before you travel, do your safety research
You can do a Google search to find recent news that could impact your travel safety or security like weather and unrest. To travel abroad, please consult the State Department to get current safety information, such as travel alerts and embassy contact information. This foreign travel advice can be a useful reference. To keep track of current events, create a Google Alert. Be informed but not let fear of potential dangers turn into rational panic. Veronica recommends that you enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme. This service is free and registers your trip with the closest Embassy or Consulate. They can then contact you in an emergency and help family and friends do the same. You will also receive real-time updates and safety information via email.
- Document your identity as well as travel destinations
Important documents such as your passport, insurance, and driver’s licence should be copied. Keep two copies of each document to keep in separate bags. Send them back to your family in an emergency. Keep important contact information on you. You should have the following information on your person: Name, address, and phone number of your place of stay (grab a card), as well as details about the tour operator (if applicable) and the embassy information. Maps are crucial when you’re stuck in a jam. Hard-copy maps can be a great backup for your devices and reduce the time you spend looking down at your smartphone. These maps can be printed out of Google maps or images from search results. At least one map app should be installed on your smartphone. You can view maps over Wi-Fi or take screenshots if you don’t have any international data.
- Use your head for safe travel
It doesn’t matter if you are in New York City or New Delhi. Common sense is a good thing. Pay attention to your surroundings and be especially alert at night and in crowds. If you feel unsafe, trust your gut instincts. Do not comply with robbers if you feel threatened. Avoid attracting attention with expensive jewelry and electronics. In case of separation from your travel partner(s), make a simple emergency plan. You can meet at your hotel in an hour so that one of you doesn’t have to walk the streets and the other stays in the lobby.
- Play your cards right
Bob outlines several steps that can be taken to improve card security. You should leave all unnecessary cards at home. They can distract you from the cards that are most important. Their information could cause problems if they fall into the wrong hands.
