Travel Safety Tips | Don’t Become A Victim

Take safety seriously especially while traveling with loved ones. These are my personal best 10 travel safety tips and how to best implement them.

S.T.E.P.

S.T.E.P. (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) is a free U.S State Government program that protects U.S. citizens when traveling abroad. You basically register your international trip and in case there is an emergency of any kind, the government knows where you’ve been, going, and with whom you’re traveling with and will notify your loved ones back at home. Some of you may be thinking that the government is already in your business, but keep in mind if something happens to one of your loved ones (knock on wood), they can be found faster. Country emergencies that have to do with politics and such are notified to you, too.

Location apps

Our family uses iPhones, so if you have an iPhone the “Find My iPhone” app is automatically installed on your phone. This app finds where your friend or family member’s phone is at. Of course, they must also have an iPhone in order for this to work.

If you don’t have an iPhone, or even if you do, the other one that I have used is “Life 360.” This app does the same as the iPhone for free, but for a minimal price, you get a lot more features that might make it worthwhile to pay.

Car Sharing

We all know that the two most popular car sharing companies are Uber and Lyft. These companies have made it so easy for people to get around and they are great & affordable. I have nothing bad to say about them. However, since we’re talking about how to stay safe while traveling, let me give you two pieces of advice about them.

1. Please, please, please make sure to always check the license plate when your car arrives to pick you up. Their license plate number should match the license plate number on your phone app.

2. Ask the driver who they’re picking up. If they say your name, you’re good to go. If they don’t know or say the wrong name, DO NOT get in their car. Politely decline and request another car.

Camouflage

What I mean by this is look like you belong. Look like you have it all together. Look like you know where you’re going and what you’re doing. And, in order to do this, you need to do your research before heading out your door. Know exactly what stops you need to get off at, for example. If you are ever in need of something that your phone can’t provide, go into a business and ask the employees. Don’t ask random people on the street, unless you’re on “The Amazing Race,” which is my favorite reality show, but that’s another story for another time.

Close Is Good

If you’re not traveling solo, which a lot of people actually do, make sure you stay close to each other. Walk together and don’t separate, especially in a big city. You’ve heard the phrase, two is better than one? Well, it’s true. If you ever get lost, stay at the last you were both at. This is great advice for children! And speaking of children, keep them always at an eye distance. When our boys were little, I liked to have them walk in front of me or beside me. Don’t get used to them walking behind you. I see this a lot and I truly don’t understand it. It only takes a second for a child to disappear. Just don’t do it.

Hug Your Stuff

Keep your belongings close to you and don’t take your eyes off of them. Never pick up a bag or luggage that is unattended. Instead, notify an employee. If you have a backpack/slingback and you’re sightseeing, place it in front of you. You may feel weird or silly, but it’s safer and many people are doing it nowadays. Also, my favorite kind of purse is a crossbody purse with many pockets that will match any outfit. It’s safer, more comfortable, and your hands are free!

A money belt is still a great idea. Some people think it’s an old fashioned idea (like a fanny pack), but I still use it when traveling internationally. This one pictured here is a great one!

In addition, make good use of your hotel’s safe. Don’t take all of your money when you leave for a day out in the town. It’s a great idea to keep some money in your safe. In case something happens (like losing or having your money stolen), you won’t be at a complete loss and you’ll have cash on hand.

Bling Not Necessary

I know there are times where you will need to dress up for a formal night on a cruise ship or you’re attending a wedding and such, but otherwise leave your valuables at home. It’s not necessary to show off your bling especially if you’re traveling to a second or third world country. Even if it isn’t one of those countries, you don’t need it! Do you really want to risk your great-grandmother’s earrings? Your antique bracelet? The answer is no. And, if you absolutely must take it, leave it in a safe when not in use.

What Did You Say?

It’s great to talk to the locals and get to know how they live, where they shop, and to learn about their culture. However, avoid controversial topics and don’t impose your own. One thing is to express your viewpoint, but don’t shove your philosophy down anyone’s throat. You may or may not be offending them. And know when to stop or change the subject. If you’re in their country, respect them and their culture. This is another reason why it’s a good idea to do some research beforehand and learning some of the language goes a long way.

Be Aware

This one is simple and one that everyone in your travel party can do. Be aware of your surroundings. As you’re walking, sitting, standing, look around you. Do you see something not quite right? Do you feel uncomfortable? Do you see something suspicious? Then SAY something to someone! It’s better to be safe than sorry. I have a habit of always looking around especially while pumping gas and walking around in a city. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not paranoid or look like I’m walking through a haunted house! I’m just cautious.

Trust Yourself

I placed this one last because if all else fails (the above tips), trust your instincts. Your gut feeling is usually correct. Don’t second guess yourself. If your gut is telling you something doesn’t seem right, you shouldn’t go, you shouldn’t say, etc then listen! Listen to your instinct.

We, as a family, take all of the above precautions seriously every time we travel. Not just that, but we also take precautions to stay healthy while we travel and also keeping our home safe while we’re away. I hope you, your family, and friends take these tips to heart and keep safe.

I would love to hear from you if you have a good safety tip that is not mentioned above or if you have ever encountered a scary situation. How did you get out of that scary situation? Do you have any advice for people to avoid a similar circumstance?