When Traveling, Be Safe, Of Course. Other Suggestions?

by Miscelleana Rhinehart
(Long Island, NY)

Traveling abroad. There are so many pieces of the travel puzzle that need to be put together before deciding to travel, before preparing for travel, before travel, during travel, and even after travel. There is so much to do before you get ready to go. But you need to remember certain puzzles pieces are important to keep in mind at all times. Safety is No. 1, but there are others to consider too.

What to Take
There are two main puzzle pieces for preparing to travel. First, make sure you travel light. Don’t pack the world inside of your suitcase. Pack light. The less bags the better. Add all of your information to whatever bags you pack. Second, don’t pack all your valuables such as your jewelry. Bring the absolute minimum number of valuables with you. There is no need to show off your shiny pieces of “bling” to the various strangers of the country you are visiting.
Many need to bring glasses or medicine on their trip, and I recommend that you leave those important items in your carry on. Take anything you may need quickly with you on the plane so it’s easily accessible.

One other thing, don’t bring tons and tons of cash. There is no need to do that. It will make you a target, especially if you are seen with it. Bring traveler’s checks and only one or two credit cards. That’s all you need.

What to Learn Before You Go
No matter where you are going, no matter the country, make sure you do some research about the laws and customs of where you are going. This is important for simple things like not offending people and big things like not getting thrown in jail for a misunderstanding.

Ensure Safety at all Times
Safety in Your Hotel
Make sure your doors are always locked while in or out of your room and when you are out of your room; make sure that you don’t leave anything of value behind. If you are going to be out late, leave notice with someone in the front room. This can be very important. There are so many stories of tourists disappearing, so this is a smart process. A few other things to keep in mind: don’t get alone in an elevator if someone looks suspicious, and always ensure you know the fire instructions for your building in case of emergency.

Safety with Public Transportation
If you take a taxi, make sure that it is identified with official markings. Maybe join the cab with another passenger as some countries double or triple the occupants. As for trains and buses, they are big targets for tourists. Don’t ever take food or drink from strangers as they may be laced with something so your items may be stolen. On a train, try to keep your compartment locked at all times if you are sleeping, or if there is no lock, try not to sleep at all. If either location makes you feel unsafe, alert security or police personnel.

Safety When You Drive
Some travelers don’t take public transportation and instead rent a vehicle. Make sure you find a local place; don’t travel far away from where you are staying. While you drive, sit, wait, park, anything, keep your doors locked. As always, don’t leave your valuables in the car. Take them with you if you must travel with them. Try not to drive at night if at all possible. Don’t get out of the car if anyone outside looks suspicious. Finally, NO NO NO hitchhikers.

Follow these pieces of the travel puzzle, and you will have a good safe trip. As they say, better safe than sorry. Have fun wherever you travel, and just keep your eyes open.

About the Author:
Miscelleana Rhinehart writes for Nexteppe as an editor to help spread the word about available NY used cars and others available through the use of social media and offers online classifieds. Ms. Rhinehart enjoys writing for any subject and enjoys spreading her thoughts and experiences with others.