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Whether you travel for business or pleasure, safety should always be a priority. When it comes to safety, it goes beyond safeguarding your luggage and valuables. Personal protection matters the most when you are far away from home. It becomes a tad more crucial for international travelers because you have no idea where to get help. So it makes sense to be proactive about staying safe when you travel to another country. Here is an international traveler’s safety guide that can be of great help for regular and occasional globetrotters.
Know your destination
Your safety preparation starts even before you leave. Start with some research on your destination, particularly if you are planning to visit a less-ventured one. It may be an exciting prospect for adventure-lovers, but being aware of hidden dangers keeps you safe. Checking facts and stats about crime rates and hotspots in the country is a good place to start. You can even plan your itinerary accordingly. Don’t forget to share your plans with someone back home so that they always know your whereabouts.
Save emergency contact details
When you research, save the contact details of people who could help you in an emergency. It is vital to have the contact number of the local embassy of your country there because they can come to your rescue when you get into an unfortunate situation. Save the contact number of local acquaintances, if any. Apart from having the details in your phonebook, jot them on paper and carry them in your wallet.
Pack smartly
Being safe in foreign land is also about packing smartly. Avoid carrying too much luggage and steer clear of carrying expensive stuff and cash because they make you an attractive target. Use a lightweight and expandable travel backpack to carry your clothes and essentials. If traveling to a dangerous destination on a strategic mission, you will need body armor for personal protection. If you don’t own it yet, investing in engarde body armor is a good idea. Before you take it along, check the legalities of civilian ballistic protection at your destination. Also, check the formalities you may have to follow at the airport when you carry a bulletproof vest in the luggage..
Get travel insurance
Even as travel insurance may seem like an additional expense while embarking on an international trip, it is worth spending. If you get sick or injured abroad, your regular policy will not offer coverage for expenses. However, travel insurance covers everything, so you need not worry even if you get into trouble in another part of the world. Make sure that you don’t skimp on this one!
Be vigilant at all times
A good presence of mind keeps you safe every time you step out, and it becomes all the more important as you travel overseas. Staying alert and listening to your instincts is the best place to start. Follow the common-sense rules such as avoiding outing during late hours, not getting too friendly with strangers, and choosing safe accommodation to stay. Taking up a self-defense training program before you leave is also a good idea.
Being an international traveler requires an extra bit of caution from the safety perspective, but it is worth the effort. You will surely have a great time if you are sure about being safe as you explore a new destination!
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