Adventure lovers know the raw thrill of stepping off a plane and onto foreign soil. Whether it’s for a vacation, study abroad program or business convention, trips to other countries are opportunities for vivid new memories and lessons in intercultural appreciation. In recent years, safety while traveling abroad has become more of an issue; as a result, more people are looking for ways to stay safe when they cross borders. Below are some helpful tips for new travelers looking to stay protected during their experiences abroad.
1. Purchase travel insurance
You should do this before you embark. Review travel insurance reviews from consumersadvocate.org. Travel injury compensation is useful if you’re going away for several months (to protect against vehicle accidents, robbery, etc.), or if you will be participating in riskier athletic recreation, like skiing. Registering for travel insurance can also give you access to compensation lawyers who are skilled in dealing with travel injury compensation and who will make navigating international laws much less of a hassle. In addition, travel insurance gives you emergency medical transportation coverage, and can help you account for interruptions in your trip. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it, travel insurance and compensation lawyers can save both you and your assets in the event of a crisis.
2. Scan copies of all your important documents
Theft is a prevalent danger anywhere in the world, but especially in tourist hot-spots and aboard overnight transportation (like night trains in Europe). If someone were to steal your passport or other identification cards, you could wind up restricted from traveling – and it can take weeks to receive a replacement. Travel is almost impossible without the proper I.D., so having both a physical copy, and a digital copy on your phone or laptop, could save you from being stranded when you should be enjoying your trip.
3. Divide and stash your money
International airports have stations where you can exchange your money for local currency. Do not turn in all your cash when you first arrive. Keep some of your homeland’s money in an envelope and keep it somewhere secure for when you make your return trip. When you exchange the rest of your cash – and when you withdraw more money in the future – always ensure you stow it in several places simultaneously. If you get robbed, the chances of losing all your money decreases drastically. Also, make sure you notify your bank before you leave to let them know where you are traveling; they will clear your debit or credit card for use abroad.
4. Know proper road safety
First, if you will be driving in a foreign country, study their road rules. Find a service that can teach you when you arrive. However, even the best drivers sometimes have accidents. If you’re in a major accident while abroad, trust your travel insurance and emergency services to take care of everything. If the accident is minor, clear the road, notify authorities, exchange insurance information and log every detail of the accident. Get in contact with your insurance representative if you have questions.
5. Pack smart
Finally, pack smart (this includes time spent abroad). Before leaving, make sure you have all the basics (climate-appropriate clothes, toiletries, money, etc.) While abroad, you will probably pick up gifts and souvenirs; packing those properly is key. You will need to declare items like food when you return to your home country. Remember that liquids, even things like jam, must be sealed and packed in your luggage, not your carry-on. Don’t bring back alcohol unless you are old enough according to your native laws.
These are just a few tips for optimum safety while traveling abroad. Feel free to connect with others who have traveled before and get insider information on how to stay as safe as possible. Smart travel makes for great memories!
