Essentials for Keeping Safe on Your Travels
Are you planning a gap year before heading to university? Whether you intend to travel alone, visit popular resorts or explore far flung places, general safety advice applies to everyone, wherever you may be.
For the most part, the majority of destinations throughout the world are usually considered to be safe but you should always be aware that problems can arise on your travels, no matter how safe you consider yourself or the location to be.
Before venturing off into the unknown, it helps to arm yourself with some vital knowledge and download the Safer Travel App which provides you with essential information to tourist and backpacker destinations so you can protect yourself and ensure your travels are safely experienced.
Think about where the best neighbourhoods are, and which ones you should avoid
Research a destination
Once you’ve decided on where you’ll be travelling to, in addition to looking up accommodation and tourist details, take some time to research the area and find out local information as to how safe it is. Think about where the best neighbourhoods are, and which ones you should avoid.
What are the local taxis like? Are the lodgings you’ve booked considered safe by other travellers? It’s easy to read reviews on a destination to find out what other travellers have experienced in the area so it’s well worth spending time researching their thoughts on a place before you leave.
Get your documents in order
Whether you’re going away for a week or planning to work abroad for some time, taking out travel insurance is a priority. Check all the details before you commit and make sure it covers your health under every circumstance as it’s easy to assume you are covered for all eventualities so choose a policy that matches your travel expedition.
While you are travelling, never take everything out with you; almost all hostels and hotels have lockers to safely leave money, documents and valuables behind while you’re out exploring. If you do lose any essential travel documents, make sure you have emergency numbers or contact details for the local embassy who will help you get back on track.
Blend in with the locals
It may sound obvious but do your best to blend in with the local environment. What may be considered standard in the UK, could be construed as too revealing or inappropriate in another country. If you mix naturally you’re less likely to be earmarked as a tourist and can avoid pickpockets or potentially dangerous predators who see you as an easy target. It’s important not to let people distract you and catch you off guard so be mindful while you’re out wandering.
This last bit advice is even more applicable if you’re out drinking as it can make you in a more vulnerable position to people who could possibly want to take advantage of you.
If you keep up to date with the local tourist and security information provided by the UK Embassy and are always sensible then your trip of a lifetime will be one big happy adventure.
Written by Lucy Benson
