How to stay safe on your travels

You're booked, you're packed, now it's time for a few safety tips

Ok, ok, so we know you’re getting all giddy about your travels, but take those rose-tinted glasses off for a second! The world is an unpredictable place and without question this is more so than ever. Wherever you travel, we want you to have a ball for all the right reasons, so we’ve rustled up some handy tips on how to stay safe:

Before you jet off

Believe it or not, staying safe starts before you set off! Aside from cramming tons into your near-to-bursting rucksack, don’t you think you should pack practically? Here’s how

Important documents

Take two photocopies of your passport, driving licence, insurance certificate, and all your other important documents. Keep a separate copy of each document in different bags and give a copy to a relative or friend, along with an itinerary of your trip and emergency contact number.

Alternatively, you can store your documents through a secure online storage site.

Insurance

It goes without saying that you should always travel with insurance that covers your possessions as well as safe-guarding you for any extreme sports and activities yes, that includes bungee jumping off a bridge backwards in Queenstown!

Medical

Bite-sized travellers’ first aid kits are readily available and a wise idea. If you’re on the contraceptive pill, take enough supplies and bring condoms if you’re planning to have sex abroad. Don’t forget to have any vaccinations you may need in plenty of time before your trip; if you’re going to a Malaria area, you’ll need to take anti-malarial medicine with you.

Money

Carrying cards is safer than wads of cash. It’s a good idea to spread your money across traveller’s cheques, cards and a little cash. Jot down the cheque numbers before you go.

Travel Guide

It’s worth investing in a decent travel book, such as a Lonely Planet guide.

Embassy

If you’re planning to travel to one particular area, find out where the nearest embassy is and check what services they offer and their opening times before you go. Should the worst happen, this will be your lifeline.

Travelling in the EU?

If you’re travelling in the EU, you’re entitled to a free European Health Insurance Card for free or discounted emergency care.

While you’re there

You’re in a new country so you need to be extra vigilant and look after yourself and your belongings. Here are some top tips on how to stay safe abroad

Personal possessions

Invest in padlocks and travel with safe products. Keep valuables in a secure storage area wherever possible or keep them out of sight, and wear a money belt well-hidden under your clothing.

Eating and drinking

Even if you’ve never been to India, the chances are you’ve had Delhi belly before, right? The best ways to avoid this are to check whether it’s safe to drink the local tap water. If not, only drink bottled water and steer clear of iced drinks. Also, be wary of food such as salads, non-peeling fruit and vegetables, and foods that have been kept warm.

Foreign custom

You’re in a foreign country, so abide by their law. Try not to stand out too much like a sore thumb with loud clothing. You’re a visitor so you should respect the local culture.

Safety in numbers

Travelling solo is ok, as long as you are careful and sensible. Don’t walk out alone in the dark and make sure someone in-country or at home knows your whereabouts. It’s great to make new friends, but be careful not to be too trusting.

Driving abroad

If you fancy kicking up the dust on a trail bike in Cambodia, be prepared. Make sure you have a valid driving licence and insurance cover for driving abroad – check whether you need a Green Card for the country you’re travelling to, as this offers cheap insurance. You might need an International Driving Permit.

Cover up

The sun and creepy crawlies can be a pain in tropical climates. Wear a high SPF cream to avoid sunburn, and use an insect repellent containing DEET before covering up at dawn and dusk to keep the bugs at bay!

Want some extra tips?

Find out more travel advice relevant to you.

Useful links:

www.fco.gov.uk/

www.c-p-p.co.uk

www.thesite.org/travelandfreetime

www.safetravel.co.uk/

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