Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures. I think you and I both realize that, since you know, I write about travel and here you are in my little corner of the internet reading about it. But I still thought it needed to be stated. Solo travel is on the rise and I think it is absolutely badass that women are taking a bag and seeing the world. But as exciting as travel can be, there are a few safety precautions every traveler should be aware of. Here are some travel safety tips for you to keep in mind on your next trip.
Best Travel Safety Tips
Act and think like a local
Sometimes acting like a local is a little easier than others. If you’re from the US and visit London for the first time, it is a little easier to act like a local. But in those places where you might stick out a little more, trying to look like you live there can be as simple as walking confidently! But you’ll also want to think like a local. Talk to your hotel staff or airline attendants when you travel. Locals and those in the tourism sector especially, are full of information! They can tell you what areas to avoid, the best local spots that only insiders know about, and other information you can’t find in a guidebook.
Let people know where you are
Before you venture out on your next trip alone, you need to make sure you let someone know your plans! Give friends and family a loose itinerary of where you’ll be and when as well as any information about your accommodations. You might also have someone set to be able to track your phone so that they can see your current location in the event they don’t hear from you for a while. Tim and I have used and recommend Find My Friends for both iPhone and Android users.
Carry pepper spray when you can
In some parts of the world, pepper spray may be illegal or you are unable to travel with it. If you can though, carry a mini bottle with you. Just remember that if you don’t use it for a year, you’ll want to get a new one.
I had one of the small ones that attached to my keys in college that always made me feel safe. You hope you’ll never have to use it but I promise it makes you feel more secure knowing its nearby.
Carry a first aid and emergency kit
Carrying a first aid and emergency kit is another thing that you should consider. You can build your own or buy one, but they come in hand! A good first aid and emergency kit should have things that can help you when you’re traveling alone.
Tim will be the first to tell you that I never leave home without some type of emergency kit! Mine usually includes those items I use the most like bandaids, antibiotic ointment, heartburn medicine, some anti-diarrheal, and alcohol wipes as well as some other tidbits.
Do your research before booking accommodations
Do your research! Always read the reviews for your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb. Keep in mind that sometimes the price can be too good to be true and look for red flags that could give away an unsafe situation. After you book, make sure you write down the contact number for your host or hotel and give it to a friend or family member so they have it.
Carry a copy of your passport with you
I’ve never had my passport stolen or lost it, but I have been with friends who have. It is a total bummer and pain in the ass to deal with. Carry a photocopy of your passport with you and make sure someone back home has a copy too. It gives you a form of ID while you sort your lost passport issue and can sometimes help speed up the process.
We all hope that we don’t encounter safety concerns when we travel but being prepared with travel safety tips and aware is one of the best ways to prevent issues. Be safe and happy travels friends!