All the Basics You Need to Know before Traveling
Gavin Manerowski
Gavin Manerowski Exploring new places, food, people and their culture is what traveling is all about. No doubt every trip comes with its own set of worries, however, according to an old saying – prevention is always better than cure. Especially, if are going out to explore a new country, places, and much more. So what could be the safety tips that might save you from glitches in your travel plans? Let’s find out with an avid traveler Gavin Manerowski.
POTENTIAL TRAVEL RISKS • • • • •
Health risks Scamming Theft Violence Transportation risks
SAFETY TIPS FOR ALL TRAVELERS • • • • •
Do your research before you travel? Blend in with your surroundings Don’t flash your wealth Stay safe in transport Keep your belongings safe
Health Risks Needless to say, unwanted health issues are a top concern for any traveler. Especially if you are travelling to a country where diet and hygiene are enormously different to what you are used to. Of course, Conditions like vomiting, stomach flu, and diarrhea can quickly ruin a trip.
Scamming
Travelers run the risk of becoming possible targets for scammers, especially if you don’t understand the language or are unfamiliar with the culture.
Theft Nothing will spoil your tour like getting your passport, money or other valuables stolen.
Violence
Travelers may find themselves getting caught in a violent crime, especially if you are unaware of the areas that you are venturing into.
Transportation Risks Transportation problems might be another issue, especially if you are traveling to a destination that is disreputable for transport accidents, has complicated or nonexistent public transport schedules or is known for its traffic crowding.
Do your research before you travel?
The topmost rule of safe travel — you must not be ignorant about where you are going. Try your best to learn about the country, the cultural norms, the political situation, and the safest spots for travelers, safe accommodations to stay and the areas or regions that you must avoid. Go for your trip with your eyes wide open to avoid unexpected surprises.
Blend in with your surroundings After doing a complete research, start your visit to a new destination as if you were one of the locals. According to experts, this is one of the best safety tips for travelers. You’ll make yourself more susceptible to con artists if you stick out like a sore thumb with your huge backpack, two cameras and confused impression on your face. And you will attract less attention if you make an effort to blend in.
Don’t flash your wealth
Whether this is with expensive gear or cash, showing wealth will only make you more appealing to pickpockets and scammers. Carry a dummy wallet with little money in it so that you can give this in case you are robbed.
Stay safe in transport Avoid air travel accidents by regularly checking whether your flight has been rescheduled or cancelled. While using bus services, ensure you are going with trusted companies that have numerous good reviews online. Moreover, get your tickets booked in advance whenever possible, so you don’t end up stuck on remote bus stops with no transport in sight. If you are hiring local taxis, negotiate the fare in advance in case the vehicle doesn’t have a meter. Also, do not forget to carry a map with you to avoid getting lost.
Keep your belongings safe Try not to carry too many luggage pieces and invest in a small strong lock for your luggage. You must choose something that doesn’t stand out, so it doesn’t the impression that you have something really valuable inside. And if you have a hand-carry with you, not ever leave it unattended. Purchase wallets that have RFID protection to avoid identity theft.
Final Words So according to Gavin Manerowski, these are a few things that every traveler must consider before heading to a new destination.
Gavin Manerowski