Travelling can be stressful, and there are plenty of things to think about before leaving for a long trip. Amid the packing and the goodbyes, don’t forget to think about how you will stay safe during your travels.
Whether your trip is short or long-term, follow these guidelines and preparatory tips to ensure your time in an unfamiliar place is memorable, productive, and most importantly safe.
Do Your Homework
Before you leave, take some time to research your destination. Get the facts on crime risks and the geopolitical climate in the area. Check for travel advisories, and ask your host or sponsor when and where you should use extreme caution. If possible, speak with someone who has travelled to the location to get ideas on what to expect and how to act.
Often, the key to staying safe is blending in with natives to avoid making yourself a target. Research customary clothing practices for someone your age and gender, and do your best to pack items that will conform to the local norms. You may find that this will make your travel experience richer as well as safer.
Know the Risks
The biggest mistake you can make when travelling to any unfamiliar place is to be naïve about the risks. Unfortunately, tourists and foreigners are often easy targets because:
1. Criminals assume tourists have money.
2. Most foreigners don’t speak the language or know how to call for help.
3. Criminals know it is unlikely a tourist or foreigner will testify in court if he or she is caught.
4. Foreigners are often too caught up in their travels to pay close attention to surrounding dangers.
Know that you are a target and concentrate on making yourself a difficult target to deter criminals and stay safe.
Stay Aware
The key to being a successful traveller is to practise situational awareness. Be alert and always have a plan or escape route should you be confronted with a threat.
Criminals are not unlike predators in the wild. They evaluate their victims and pounce on targets that present the lowest personal risk meaning they choose targets based on who is the least attentive, appears the weakest or who is least likely to get them caught or injured.
Practise situational awareness by:
- Constantly staying focused on your surroundings
- Noting escape routes during your everyday activity, including police stations, open stores or busy restaurants
- Knowing how to identify those who are following you or paying undue, uncomfortable attention to you
- Listening to your body for natural signs of fear, apprehension or suspicion
For Specialist Travel Insurance advice call us on 0113 250 0377 during normal office hours or alternatively, click here to contact us online.
