7 Key Travel Security Tips
The experience of traveling may be thrilling and enlightening. It's simple to get carried away by the excitement of an adventure. But when you're away from home, keep in mind the importance of travel security and safety.
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When you travel, you will be in a situation where your local abilities for recognizing what or who is normal versus out of the ordinary, who is genuine vs suspect, or what places are safe zones versus more dangerous regions will not be as sharp as they are at home. This necessitates paying more attention to your surroundings and doing things slowly throughout the day.
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Use these seven travel safety suggestions to ensure that your vacation is memorable in the best possible ways.
1. Engage in research.
Discover as much as you can about your destination before you go. For information on the safest areas, accommodations, and crime statistics, read reviews written by other travelers and speak with locals. For country-specific information, visit the State Department's website and check out the U.S Department of State website information page. Enroll the their STEP Program.
Knowing who to call in an emergency is a vital travel security measure. Obtain the phone numbers for the police department, emergency services, and nearest embassy or consulate.
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2. Don't draw attention.
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Try to blend in as much as you can because criminals target people who appear to be from out of town. Select attire that won't stand out and draw attention. When studying maps, exercise discretion, and use caution when approaching individuals to ask for directions.
Additionally, think about making an investment in protective clothes and equipment that will make it more difficult for pickpockets to steal cash and other valuables from you.
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3. Make duplicates of Travel Documents
A copy of your passport, driver's license, or other form of identification may be required at any time. Print numerous hard copies of these documents after scanning them to store online. That way, if necessary, you won't have to rush to find the right documents.
Angelica Simpson
Travel Consultant
Vacation Management Services
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A Travel Consultant minimizes the stress associated with organizing and managing a trip so you can concentrate on what really matters—enjoying yourself.
I help research and plan your trip by booking tickets to venues, assisting with flight, cruises, hotel, and rental car. I offer travel insurance. I assist with changes and cancelations. Provide digital copies of your Travel Documents. I can act as an Emergency Intermediary. Should you have an emergency while on vacation, I would be the intermediary between the you and the suppliers. I can track down lost luggage and ensure that it arrives at their location. I will reconfirm the Itinerary prior to your arrival and notify suppliers whether you will be early or late.
+1 (407) 513-2377
Photo by Averie Woodard on Unsplash
4. Keep your relatives and friends informed
Whether you're taking a quick overnight trip or an extended international trip, it's always a good idea to let friends or relatives back home know where you'll be. Send a copy of your itinerary to a few people you can count on to keep track of your whereabouts before you depart. Make sure your contacts are aware of your whereabouts by checking in with them frequently.
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5. Beware of using Public WiFi
Don't let the ease of access to the Internet impair your judgment. Hackers wanting to steal vital information can access your data when you use public Wi-Fi, including credit card or Social Security numbers. Set up a virtual private network (VPN) that will provide wireless Internet access if you do require it.
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6. Safeguard your hotel room.
You can take efforts to make your room safer even if your hotel has robust security systems in place. Keep your windows closed, lock the door, and deadbolt it. A portable gadget known as a jammer that fits under the door for extra protection can be purchased.
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When you're away, try to create the illusion that you're still in your room by closing the blinds and windows and posting a sign that reads "Do Not Disturb" on the outside of your door.
Even if they claim to be from the hotel, never let a stranger enter your room. To find out if someone was summoned by hotel employees, call the front desk at any time.
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7. Pay attention to your environment
When trying to capture the ideal image for your social media platforms, don't let your guard down. Always keep a watch on your personal items, and use caution while approaching strangers. Meeting new people and learning about their cultures is a large part of what makes traveling so enjoyable. However, if someone close to you is behaving strangely or if you feel uneasy, leave the location right away.
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Establish a strong communication plan and protocol, the nearest U.S. (or your country of citizenship) Embassy or Consulate, of your itinerary and contact information. Locally let others know where you are going and when you will return (such as the Hotel staff.) Carry key contact information, such as resident director, hotel staff, U.S. Embassy or Consulate, travel insurance, and the the local versions of 911 with you at all times. Know the nearest medical facilities and report suspicious individuals to local authorities. Stay in touch with family and friends back home.
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To prepare for a major security incident in your local environment, keep your cell phone charged and consider carrying a portable backup charger. Carry small amounts of food and water in case of delays or extended shelter stays. Follow local authorities' directives, be prepared for additional security screening and disruptions, and carry an ID (copy of passport) with you. Communicate with your travel consultant and your travel insurance company (if you have one) so that they may assist you with your travel if needed.
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You can travel safely by using the advice in this article, but despite your best efforts, unforeseen events can still occur. Stay protected with travel insurance and get peace of mind no matter where you go.
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