With crowds rising and traveling getting back to pre-COVID-19 times, a reminder to all about safety is needed. Traveling can be a scary thing whether you’re alone or with a group of people. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind while traveling.

Tip #1:  When traveling to a new place you should always have an itinerary to help you be prepared, and share that itinerary with others present and back home.

Tip #2: If possible, have a travel companion with you. This helps ensure safe travels and may prevent unwanted people approaching you. Safety in numbers!

Tip #3: Do your research. Get to know your destination in depth before you arrive. Doing this may help you get a general idea of what you should expect, and where to go (and not to go!) once you arrive.

Tip #4: Keeping your devices charged will benefit you if you need to call for help or if you are lost and need directions. School resource officer, Lynne Thomas, shares “always have 911 plugged into your phone… If something happens or you are in an emergency.”

Tip #5: Be smart about your money. It’s typically not a smart idea to travel with large amounts of cash, so leaving the bulk of your money locked up in a safe where you’re staying is ideal. When using ATMs, try using ones that are attached to banks as these are less likely to have been tampered with by scammers. 

Tip #6: Always keep digital copies of important documents when traveling. A passport may be the most important thing you carry, but keep your passport locked up when possible.

Tip #7: Try to blend in. Blending in can help you keep a low profile; you can do this by carrying fewer things or even having a game plan so you know where you’re going and what you’re doing. Tourists tend to keep more money on them than locals, making it more likely for you to be targeted.

Tip #8: Use reputable transportation companies. Do your research before you embark upon any sort of public transportation. Lots of people disguise themselves as taxi drivers and doing a little research can save you from a big problem in the long run.

Tip #9: Be aware of your surroundings. It is always important to pay attention to what is going on around you, whether you are in a crowded tourist spot or walking down an empty street. 

Tip #10: When traveling, it is good to be aware of scams. There are various types of scams all over the world; therefore, you should inform yourself which scams are popular at your destination so it doesn’t happen to you. 

Traveling can be dangerous in certain situations and places, and it is crucial that you are prepared when you are revisiting or traveling to a place for the first time.

Doing a little extra research before you go away can help enhance your experience in the most efficient, safest way.

Happy travels, PHS!