This is a collaborative post: Going abroad is often a highlight of the year for many people. However, we can still find ourselves victims of crime even when on holiday. It’s important to make sure your trip away isn’t affected by criminals and avoidable situations. We’ve listed seven key things to help you stay safe when travelling abroad.
Do your research
The best way to avoid being a victim of crime is through thorough research. Consult resources such as the government’s Foreign Travel Advice service. Read reviews about the best places for tourists to stay. See where the safest neighbourhoods are. And be sure to take a map or download one onto your phone for when travelling around the city.
Keep a copy of important documents
Things like your passports, travel insurance policies, and hotel bookings are all important. If you lose them, you could find yourself with a major headache. As a result, always make multiple copies before you leave home. You can then distribute them across your party’s luggage.
Learn common travel scams
Scams are possible even before travellers set foot in the country too. So, ensure the company you book through is legitimate. Reviews, contact information, and listings on reputable booking websites are all good indicators.
Keep your money and valuables safe
Theft is a surprisingly common occurrence around the globe. UN figures from 2016 cited by The Global Economy show the theft rate is high in many developed countries.
To stop yourself from becoming a statistic, invest in a money belt. Also, keep your belongings in a safe at the hotel while exploring. And always keep your things close by.
Browse using a VPN
Hotel Wi-Fi is not always safe. The owners may not be using the best security settings. The hotel may be watching what you browse. Your devices may become infected by viruses. And what’s more, the Wi-Fi hotspot may be fake and used by criminals to steal your information.
Download a VPN to protect yourself (https://nordvpn.com/download/) while using public Wi-Fi. It will help stop these threats in their tracks.
Don’t stand out
One of the worst things you can do while abroad is communicating to locals that you’re a tourist. If you do, you make yourself a much greater target for theft.
Try not to be inconspicuous. Don’t flash gadgets and smartphones. Try to walk with purpose, looking for directions only while sitting down. And use tourist information offices when asking for help.
Get travel insurance
With travel insurance to hand, you’ll be able to claim for costs while abroad. This might include medical expenses, the cost of replacement flights, or even the price of stolen belongings.
You can stay safe on holiday with the seven tips above. How do you avoid becoming a victim while abroad? Let us know in the comments section.