These 10 safety tips for first-time travelers are essential to a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
During summertime in the post-pandemic era of covid-19, millions of people are estimated to explore other places, regions, and locations compared to the busy summer years we may have experienced before the covid-19.
New travelers account for at least 25% of the estimated data among the numbered traveling millions.
Traveling can be an exciting, memorable, and expensive way to experience the world. Before you plan a trip, take some time to consider these ten safety tips.
These safety tips are not in order; however, they highlight how you can make the most of your journey without getting into trouble and returning home safely.
1) Research Destination of Crime History
While traveling is incredibly exciting, it can also be dangerous.
Several scammers prey on foreigners who don’t know any better.
The key here is information; don’t go abroad without knowing about the region’s current scams and schemes that local criminals may use against tourists like yourself.
Visit governmental travel agencies or web-portal to research a destination.
2) Listen To The Locals
When traveling for pleasure, you’ll likely prefer to go to a place you haven’t been to.
On getting to your travel destination, be sure to ask around and learn as much as possible about your location from the locals, whether it be a few insider tips or potential dangers.
For example, if you visit a big city, talk with people who live there and ask which neighborhoods are safe to explore on foot at night against which ones aren’t.
3) Avoid Taking Unofficial Taxis
Taxi scams are common and very dangerous and can lead to death. Kidnappers utilize this means to obtain money (ransom) from foreigners.
For instance, while visiting the middle east region with colleagues, upon our arrival at a particular airport, we were told that there was no official taxi available for us to go into the city.
However, we could go in a private taxi, and we shouldn’t worry about this particular taxi, as it’s well-known and legalized in the region.
Respectfully, we declined the offer and asked for an operating taxi company’s phone number.
Always request an official cab—and if you are in a situation where you don’t have access to one, utilize a cab-sharing app like Uber, Lyft, etc.
You can always take legal action against the cab-sharing company if something goes wrong.
4) Go With The Crowd
It’s a good idea to blend in when you travel.
Most importantly, if you’re staying in an area where you are new and unfamiliar or don’t know anyone within.
Move towards the crowd directions; don’t go to a secluded, fun spot.
For example, order the food items you see the locals eating in a restaurant.
5) Explore with Purpose
First-time traveling and exploring new cities and regions can be fun and dangerous.
Research what neighborhoods you should avoid, pay attention to street signs (so you don’t get lost), and plan where you’ll go if anything goes wrong.
And always walk with confidence—if an area seems sketchy, avoid eye contact, don’t fiddle with your phone, and stay alert at all times.
6) Don’t Visit Mysterious Locations After Dark
Crime activities tend to be more active during dark hours.
Night time is when the following individual mainly conducts business, e.g., criminals, drug dealers, gang members, etc.
Instead of walking down dark alleys or visiting shady establishments after dark, avoid going to these places.
Make it a habit to return to your hotel or abode before sunset to rest and prepare for whatever sightseeing you have planned for the next day.
7) Watch Out For Pickpockets
You don’t have to be overly paranoid about pickpockets in every new city you visit.
Still, it’s essential to keep one thing in mind: sure tourists make easy targets.
Be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, particularly if traveling alone.
Maintain a heightened sense of awareness, especially in touristy areas.
Before visiting a particular geographical location, please read up on common crimes and how to avoid them.
8) Use A Budget Hotel Instead Of a Hostel
Just because you’re traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality.
Hostels are good, but budget hotels provide many of the same perks—with much more security, privacy, and comfort.
You can usually find them for less than $50 per night, making them an ideal alternative for first-time travelers.
9) Keeping Your Valuables On You Or In The Safe?
It’s pervasive for people new to traveling to leave their valuables in a hotel while exploring the city.
Ideally, locking valuables in a hotel is secure to avoid losing or being stolen.
But, your belongings are at a higher risk of being stolen by other travelers or hotel employees.
Instead, ensure you always have your passport and other valuable items on you.
Moreso, an emergency that requires immediate removal from that location might arise.
10) Check the Reputation of Tour Guides Before Booking Them:
Your travel guide is responsible for your safety and comfort in your visiting region.
Verify tour guide companies on their credibility.
Read reviews of their services—Check in on governmental portals to see if there are any restraints against guides and tour companies.
Please do your homework on a guide before settling in for their services.
Bottomline
It is imperative to be cautious and alert when visiting an unfamiliar destination.
Practice safety at all times, respect the cultures and norms of your hosting region, and, most importantly, don’t be too flashy or extravagant in your spending to avoid unwanted attention.
Avoid extended invitations from unknown or random individuals.
Stay close to your team and tour guide if you travel with any.
Respect is reciprocal, so practice it at all times.
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