10 Important Travel Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

Travel Safety is More Important Than You Think

When we pack our suitcase for vacation, we are all looking forward to time away to relax and enjoy our time off. Unfortunately, each year there are travelers that are victims of scammers and thieves that can end vacation fun real fast for unsuspecting travelers.

Savvy jet-setters and road-trippers know that travel safety is more important now than ever. With a few travel safety tips and a little extra care, you can avoid scams and keep enjoying vacation time instead. Here are some safety concerns when traveling and tips to avoid being a victim.

10 Essential Travel Safety Tips

1. Don’t Flash Your Valuables – Do not wear your expensive jewelry, sport designer handbags, or flash lots of cash when visiting crowded tourist spots. This will make you an easy target for thieves looking to rob tourists.
   
   
2. Know the Phone Number for Emergency Services – Plan in advance and learn the number for emergency services for your vacation destination even if it is the U.S. In addition, having a way to directly communicate with the country’s nearest embassy is one of the best travel safety tips you can follow for travel outside your home country. Quick access in the event of an emergency is priceless.
   
   
3. Get Your Travel Vaccinations – Depending on your destination, certain vaccinations may be required by state, local and territorial governments for your trip. Check with authorities or a family doctor for guidance on travel vaccinations. Also be sure to bring vaccination certificates you have to avoid denial of entry or revaccination.  
   
   
4. Bring Travel Locks for Your Luggage AND Data– Travel locks are always a good idea when vacationing to keep your bag secure at the airport or a restaurant by using them to attach the bag to your chair or other secure object. You can also lock your electronics with a USB data blocker designed to prevent unwanted data transfers/access. The data blocker is attached between the charging cable and the USB charging port and works to ensure all data and access to things like bank accounts are private and protected from scammers.
   
   
5. Use Reputable Transportation Companies – Do your homework when it comes to transportation options during our vacation. Smart practices like finding a reputable taxi company before you arrive at your destination is a good idea. Also be sure to scope out local drivers on popular ride-share like Uber or Lyft and make sure to get their name and vehicle information before accepting a ride.
   
   
6. Share Your Itinerary with Family and Friends – Always let someone know the details of your trip and the complete itinerary. Be sure to make them aware of any plan changes and also check in with friends or family throughout the trip to let them know all is well. This is especially important when traveling out of the country or a very unfamiliar area.
   
   
7. Don’t Share Too Much With Strangers – Avoid sharing unnecessary information with those you meet during travels. Though it might seem harmless to tell them where you are staying or your plans for the day, scammers and thieves take advantage of this info to harm you. Also avoid posting vacation photos on social media that tell everyone that you are away and that your home is empty.  
   
   
8. Use ATMs in Banks – While you should not carry a large amount of cash when traveling, when you do need to use an ATM, be sure to choose one that is secure for your transactions. Using an ATM that is located in a bank is a smart choice, as these machines are more protected and are more dangerous for scammers to tamper with. ATMs in hotels or other indoor secure areas are also a safer option than machines that are located outdoors or in high traffic open areas.   
   
   
9. Trust Your Instincts – Go with your gut if you are getting an uncomfortable vibe from a person or place while traveling. Sometimes we aren’t even aware that our subconscious is detecting that something is off, and we might be in danger. More often than not, following that hunch will help keep you safe.
   
   
10. Be Aware of Your Surroundings – When it comes to travel safety tips, staying alert and aware is a very important one. Being aware of your surroundings is crucial while out and about. Pay attention to what’s happening and don’t get so distracted that someone can take advantage of you. This is especially important for those traveling solo.

Taking advantage of these travel safety tips is a sure way to avoid potential scams and ensure that your vacation is a relaxing and carefree one.

Related: 15 Essentials to Pack for Your Summer Road Trip