Travel Safety Tips
A Comprehensive Resource

Local laws and customs.

• You will be subject to the laws of the place you’re visiting.
• Consult your travel agent, embassy, tourist bureaus, trusted online references and resources, etc.
• Follow the news of events and developments in the country you’re heading to; prepare to make adjustments to your schedule if unexpected events (like a revolution) break out.
• Avoid legal difficulties by researching beforehand if you are allowed to carry certain possessions:
  1. Certain drugs or medications
  2. Firearms or other weapons
  3. Cameras (always ask permission before taking photographs in or around local institutions)
  4. Antiques (such as copies of national treasures, or even sacrilegious items)
• Respect your host country; follow local laws and do not create disturbances.

Local health concerns

• Get vaccinated accordingly.
• Learn—and follow—health precautions, especially for that specific location.

Necessary words in the local language. A few key phrases are invaluable if you’re ever in an emergency and need police help or medical assistance.

Local emergency numbers, including police, fire departments, poison control, your hotel, and the nearest embassy of your own country.

Always be alert and awake when exploring your new environment.

Don’t share your travel plans with strangers.

Never leave your belongings unattended in public spaces.

If you are attacked, don’t fight back. Give up your wallet or watch. Hopefully you’ve insured these; if you haven’t, your life is worth more than anything else.

Refrain from contact with local animals, especially strays.

Never accept food or drink from strangers.

Don’t be predictable. Vary your schedule in case you’re being followed or labelled an easy (tourist) target.

Look like you know what you’re doing. Even if you’re lost, walk purposefully. You’ll be less of a target if it seems that you know where you are and what you’re doing.

Securely handle your money. by following these travel safety tips:

• Distinguish your sources of money. Don’t put all your cash in one pocket.
• Never keep your wallet in your back pocket; keep your pouch, purse, or wallet near the front of your body where you can keep an eye and a grip on it.
• Avoid using your credit card on a public computer, such as those in internet cafes. If they’ve installed keylogger software, others could track and use your passwords and information.
• Conduct transactions only with authorized agents for currency exchanges and souvenir or ticket purchases.

Report the loss of your personal identification information or money immediately to the police and respective authorities (embassy, airline company, credit card company, etc.).

Alert authorities immediately if you feel threatened in any way.

Rent an escort security service if travelling to dangerous locations.

If detained for any reason, always keep calm, and ask for identification or for a supervisor.

In the hotel,

• Keep your hotel door locked at all times.
• Always close and lock the windows at night.
• Arrange to meet visitors only in the lobby.
• Tell someone you trust if you’re going out late at night and what time you expect to return.
• Your passport, credit cards, ID info, and cash are most secure when locked in a hotel safe.
• Be familiar with the emergency procedures and emergency exits, and make sure they’re easily accessible to you.

On the street,

• Keep a grip on your money and belongings.
• Keep your bag or purse in front of you or at your side which is away from the street.
• Beware of thieves or criminals who might work alone or as a team to
  1. Jostle you or distract you with a disturbance
  2. Ask you questions (directions, the time, etc.)
  3. Point out something to you (on your hair, shirt, etc.)
• If you’re on vacation or trying out a scuba diving or rock climbing expedition, read the fine print and ensure your instructor is certified and genuine.

When driving,

• Opt for a car instead of a motorcycle, as it’s much more secure.
• If renting a car, ensure that it’s in good condition, very secure,
• Lock your doors at all times.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Stick to popular, organized, and tourist-friendly streets and paths.
• Use the A/C and keep windows closed, especially if you’re driving through unfriendly-looking territory.
• Don’t leave valuables in the car; at the very least, lock them discreetly in the trunk.
• Don’t park or exit the car in a suspicious location or when there are suspicious people nearby.
• Always park in a designated area (in the hotel garage or other well-lit area); avoid parking on the street or in a dark place, especially overnight.
• Avoid driving at night.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• If you're an employer, consider investing on a driver safety training for your employees to provide them an adequate information on how to drive safely both on and off the job.

When using public transportation,

• Stay with your luggage until it is checked in or safely secured.
• Only take taxis and buses clearly marked and identified with official local markings; never enter an unmarked vehicle that claims to be something it isn’t.
• In a taxi or bus, sit behind the driver (not next to him); it’ll give you personal space, and you’ll be able to see him better.
• Ride the train by day. Organized robberies are more likely to occur at night, especially on overnight trains.
• There is safety in numbers, but always stay alert.