When it comes to traveling, it can be intimidating and down right scary for some to consider leaving home. Luckily, there are a lot of steps you can take to protect yourself.
Here are a few of my personal safety tips for traveling:
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- Never leave anything in plain sight. Petty theft is usually higher in tourist areas.
- You have a local friend everywhere! Solo or not, never, ever tell strangers where you're staying.
- Revert to your eight-year-old self again and set a curfew for yourself. My rule of thumb is nothing after dark. The latest would be to catch the sunset and then go straight home.
- Alcohol. Of course, you're on vacay so you're more inclined to drink. Try to keep it to a minimum when you're out and then take the party back to your home. Not only is that the safest option but, it's also a good financial move.
- Eating alone. Can be intimidating if you're not used to it. Trust me, it’s not scary or lonely. It can be nice at times + people watching!!! Personally, I always try to get an ocean view, rooftop, or bar seat. Bartenders are observant and can help squash unwanted attention from creeps.
- Money. There are so many products out there such as money belts, towels with pockets, bags with combinations locks, etc. Personally, I carry very tiny wallet that only fits my cards and a tiny amount of cash. And then, there is always some spare cash and an emergency credit card that I keep hidden away somewhere in my house, Airbnb, hostel, etc.
- Be observant. My head is on a swivel, constantly looking around, keeping track of who is around me, and if someone is following me. More times than I'd like to admit, I've taken out my phone to record guys following me -- once they notice they vanish quick! Train your brain or turn it into a memory game. Example, girl behind me is wearing a red spaghetti strap top with white shorts with holes and fringe on them, she has a rose gold iPhone, and black Roxy sandals on. Details.
- As a full time traveler and crime junkie, no joke, I have a 20 page "If I go missing" document that includes very account, serial number, log in etc. and it is on file with my lawyer and a few select people.
- iPhone users check out your SOS settings on your cell phone. Here is my own step-by-step on how to set up your emergency contacts: SOS for iPhone
- Samsung users, here is a post for you as well: Samsung SOS - Smart Phone Emergency Message Guide
What are some of your own safety tips for traveling??
