The Ultimate Guide To Safe Travel
After years of mandatory lockdowns and travel restrictions, how many of you are longing to go on a trip?!
We’ve put together the ULTIMATE guide to safe travel to ensure that your next trip goes off without a hitch. Because, whether your next adventure has you enjoying some fun in the sun or seeing historic sights, the only thing you should be worrying about is having a great time with your friends and family.
Buckle up! Here we go.
Before You Go
Do Your Research
Making sure you are familiar with your destination prior to arriving is crucial to guarantee safe travel. Reading reviews online or talking to friends who are well-traveled can help you identify the safest neighborhoods to stay in and explore. Your research should also include:
Travel Advisories
No matter where you are traveling, make sure you’ve done your homework in identifying potential travel threats. Both The Government of
Canada and The U.S. Department of State have travel advisory websites that provide regular updates on local safety, culture, natural hazards, health restrictions, etc.
Pro tip: Did you know that before traveling abroad, you can register with your government to get regular updates on safety information (i.e. travel advisories, natural disasters, civil unrest, etc)? Signing up also allows your local embassy to contact you promptly in the event of an emergency. Canadians can register through The Government of Canada. It’s completely free so… just do it.
Scams
There are quite a range of tourist scams that exist today. Researching destination-specific scams online can prepare you for what to watch out for and how to best avoid them.
Clothing
When it comes to safe travel, there is such a thing as “right” and “wrong” apparel, as many international countries have dress code laws that are strictly enforced. Choosing to ignore local customs by not abiding by country clothing laws is a sign of disrespect. Not only that, but you may not be allowed into some museums and cathedrals without, for example, your knees covered. Double check the dress code guidelines in your destination so there aren’t any surprises once you arrive.
Food & Water Safety
Call your hotel ahead of time to ask if it is safe to drink the water. If it isn’t or if you are unsure, we recommend investing in a filtered water bottle.
Read reviews online for restaurants in your area and keep your eyes peeled for long lines in dining establishments. If you are going somewhere that’s a little off the beaten path, sticking to fruits that have a peel and deep-fried or flame-cooked food can help keep you safe while experiencing local cuisine.
Vaccine Requirements
If you are traveling abroad, you’ll want to review your immunization history and make sure your vaccines are up-to-date. We recommend making an appointment with a travel clinic, where a doctor can advise you on what additional vaccinations you’ll need based on the area you are visiting.
Make Copies of Important Documents
It’s impossible to know if and when you might need copies of your personal documents, so it doesn’t hurt to prepare. You can scan your passport, driver’s license, vaccination records, etc and save them online or print hard copies just to be safe.
Get Travel Insurance
Going on a trip without travel insurance is a recipe for disaster. Getting appropriate property and health travel insurance will put your mind at ease while you’re away from home and safeguard you if something unexpected happens.
*If you have benefits through your employer or you carry a travel credit card, you may already be covered for travel.
Send Your Itinerary To Friends & Family
It’s never a good idea to travel anywhere without telling anyone. Once you’ve ironed out all the details, send your complete itinerary to your family and close friends, along with contact information for your accommodations.
Tell Your Bank Where You’re Going
Can you imagine being stranded across the globe because you’ve been locked out of your accounts? Avoid this mess altogether by letting your bank know of your travel plans ahead of time. Many have the ability to log vacation alerts in their apps.
Bring A First-Aid Kit
Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, so packing a first-aid kit is a must for safe travel. The AB#1 kit is small and perfect for travel, so
be sure to order one before you go.
While you’re at it, why not take an Emergency First Aid Course with your travel buddies!
While You’re There
Be Discreet
Looking uncomfortable, flashy, or being loud and belligerent can leave you vulnerable as a tourist. Be aware of your surroundings and try to blend in as much as you can so as not to attract too much attention.
Be Aware Of Your Valuables
If you are exploring a new place, you may be walking around with expensive equipment, such as a camera. You’ll want to keep an eye on your valuables at all times in order to minimize any opportunity for theft.
Pro tip: Before you arrive, check with your accommodations to see if there is a safe storage option in your room. Lock up your valuables whenever you plan on being away from them.
Don’t Use Your Back Pocket
Pickpocketing is a common occurrence in many places so when you’re traveling, it’s best to just pretend that your back pocket doesn’t exist. Instead, opt to use your front pockets, a fanny pack, or an over-the-shoulder bag.
Don’t Do Risky Things For A Photo Op
Pics or it didn’t happen, right?
This one should be self-explanatory but, unfortunately… it isn’t. The list of selfie-related deaths is on the rise year-over-year.
Pay attention to warning and restriction signage. Don’t go outside in hazardous weather. Don’t approach animals in the wild. Do we have to keep going?
Just, don’t make poor decisions for “The Gram”.
Being proactive and practicing extra caution while traveling will not only ensure you have an amazing time, but also guarantee that you arrive safely back home.
Check out our Ultimate Preparedness Packing Checklist for more safe travel tips and what to bring on your next adventure!
