Don’t Panic: Safe Sense For Travel Abroad

When travelers become tourists, they believe that there is a certain assumption of security when abroad. However, recent events, particularly in the South American region have cast a shadow of fear on what should be a good time. From kidnappings in Nigeria to the need for armed Federal Police guarding tourists in Mexico, it seems all of the news on travel is bad.

Yes, there have been issues with tourists coming to some kind of danger, and now with more people traveling abroad from summertime to the fall and winter holidays, people can get pretty freaked out by all of the bad news coming out of the bad things happening to tourists, but by using your head and a little prep time, you can be safe, relax, and have a good time while outside of the United States.

1. Don’t travel alone: Even if you’re going solo, it’s to have someone at home or where you’re going to, it’s good to have a backup. By connecting with a travel agency, embassy, or having a friend where you’re going can help a lot. Also, having a friend or family member to check in with can also help. Leaving them a copy of your itinerary, passport info, using a GPS share can be a good way to keep an eye on things.
2. Travel slim: Instead of that $500.00 camera and the Michael Kohr suitcase, maybe using your smartphone for pics and using that nonbranded suitcase can be a better way to not be a target, while you may have purchased such items on clearance, if they still look like money, it can make you more of a target.
3. Use smart travel tech: Using such items as doorstop alarms, RFID proof wallets, and back up batteries for your cell can make travel safer and easier. A good rule of thumb is to be aware of where your heading and prepare for that trip.
4. Don’t trailblaze your first time: Although it may be trendy and hup to go to the lesser-known areas of a foreign country, if you have never been there before it might be wise to Rick Steve’s Guides for out of the way , but, safe destinations, or if you have a good friend or family in the destination country, go with them to check out the local pubs and eateries.
5. Be laid back and alert: Americans are mostly known to be constantly hurrying or high strung, maybe take a breath and enjoy your vacation. Also, keep track of your bags, phones, and other items, keep them handy, and hug them too tightly.

All in all, a little common sense, some planning, and a lot less media-fueled panic can keep you safe in your travels. So, enjoy your vacation and happy trails!