10 Easy Safety Tips for International Travel

Going on an international trip never gets boring, no matter how old you are or even if you already visited a place a thousand times. One thing that worries me or my family before embarking is safety. I’m built like the average joe and I have no professional experience in martial art. People do worry if I’m prepared or not to handle any emergency or unfortunate events whenever I travel solo. Here I share 10 easy safety tips for international travel that I use to remain safe throughout years of traveling. This listing is based on my experience from traveling solo and with a small group of people. I hope you learn something new from this article.

We may receive commission per affiliated sales.

The List of Practical Safety Tips

1. Beware of Pickpockets: Keep your belongings secure and within sight, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots. Be creative and stored valuable in your clothe’s hidden pockets or have extra cash stored under your shoes cushion. Avoid storing valuables in easily accessible pockets or bags. There are products below that I recommend that can help keep your valuables safe from pickpockets.
   
2. Digitize Your Documents: Create electronic copies of important documents such as passports, visas, and travel insurance. Store these copies securely online for easy access in case of loss or theft. I recommend having at least two copies of your documents stored in two different places such as one in your backpack and one in your suitcase in case one is lost, you still have a backup of your digitized document.
   
3. Prioritize Your Health: Schedule a check-up with your doctor before your trip to ensure you’re fit to travel. Let them know exactly where you are going so that they could give you more accurate information on the place regarding your health. Familiarize yourself with any health requirements or vaccinations recommended for your destination.
   
4. Prioritize Personal Safety: If faced with a life threatening situation, prioritize your safety over belongings. You can always repurchase your lost things or recoup lost money but you only have one life. Remember this. Cooperate with the perpetrator and seek assistance from local authorities. Report to your country’s embassies immediately for assistance.
   
5. Secure Your Valuables: Avoid carrying large sums of cash or keeping all your valuables in one place. Utilize hotel safes to store passports, extra cash, and other important items securely.
   
6. Keep Bags Close: When dining or relaxing in public areas, keep your bags within reach and avoid leaving them unattended. Avoid hanging bags on chair backs or placing them on the ground.
   
7. Double-Check Your Surroundings: Before leaving any location, ensure you haven’t left any personal items behind. Take a moment to check your surroundings, including under tables and chairs.
   
8. Minimize Flashy Displays: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flaunting valuable items like the latest phone model or expansive camera setup that may attract unwanted attention. Opt for modest attire and keep valuables discreetly concealed. If in doubt, carefully observe the locals and try to blend in with them.
   
9. Exercise Caution with Strangers: While interacting with locals can enrich your travel experience, exercise caution when sharing personal information about who you are, and where you live. Avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers and stick to well-lit, public areas. This is more important for solo travelers who can be targets of dangerous activities.
   
10. Be Wary of Panhandlers: In areas affected by poverty, avoid giving cash or valuables to beggars. This can put yourself in danger, harassment and a target for theft because they now know you are loaded with money. Instead, consider supporting local charities or organizations working to address social issues. The safest option though is to donate online through a reputable organization like the local Red Cross.

Oscaurt Anti Theft Travel Backpack

A bag designed to be theft proof as possible

$45.99

Made of strong anti-scratch and anti-cut fabric. Keep your items safe with a secret main pocket. Comes with reflectors to keep you safe at night. Water resistant and light.

Buy Now

Key Takeaways

Here are 10 easy safety tips everyone should follow or think about to have a safer, worry free trip. No matter how careful you are, bad things will eventually happen, even for the most careful of us. Also if you are going to a destination that is known for high-crime and unexpected craziness, please look through this list so that you will be protected against any unfortunate event that comes your way. Note that the list above is not in a specific order.