5 Safety Tips for Your Next Travel Experience

Whether you are a first-timer traveler or a seasoned veteran, safety and wellness during your trip should be top of mind no matter what.  Here are some safety tips to help keep you protected on your next adventure, helping you stay focused on having a blast without the unnecessary worries!

Do Your Research

Before you embark on your journey, familiarize yourself with the destination’s local customs, traditions, and etiquette as many countries’ norms differ from those in the United States. Additionally, be sure to check the latest safety regulations and health advisories on your travel destination. Government websites, such as the U.S. department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, provide valuable travel advisories that can alert you to any potential risks or necessary precautions. Doing research can make you feel more assured and ready to travel, potentially avoiding any complications when you arrive at your destination. 

Did you know? ACIS offers a destination fact sheet for dozens of countries from the Dominican Republic to Greece, making it easy to research ahead of time.

Secure Personal and Important Belongings 

When traveling, it is important to keep your personal belongings secure to avoid theft or loss. Using a money belt or a secure bad worn close the body is a smart choice, helping you keep important items such as your phone and currency protected and out of view. For important items like passports and travel documents, consider utilizing a hotel safe or using zipper locks to protect them. There are many bags and gear designed specifically for travelers, complete with fantastic safety features; investing in a quality travel bag tailored to your needs can enhance your peace of mind. Open a new tab and check out these reliable options if you’re having trouble finding where to look, JanSport Belt Bag and Zipper Locks can ensure added security on your journeys. 

Stay Connected with People Back Home 

Maintaining communication with family or friends back home is essential for your safety. Even though they are hundreds or thousands of miles away, it is always good practice for some of your most trusted ones to have a general record of your whereabouts, just in case you need to connect with each other or in the event of an emergency. Using a location-tracking app on your phone and sharing your itinerary with those at home before you leave are easy ways to stay connected and accounted for.  

Be Aware of Your Surroundings 

Trust your instincts! Being aware of your surroundings is crucial when traveling. Always stay alert and be mindful of the people and environment around you, especially in unfamiliar places. Listen to your gut—if something feels off or makes you uncomfortable, do not hesitate to call for help or leave the area altogether. Locals can even help you and recommend which neighborhoods should be avoided. Sometimes, it might even be helpful to download maps of travel plans in case you do not have adequate cellular service.  

P.S. if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Familiarize yourself with these common scams you may face when traveling. 

Plan for Emergencies 

As rare as emergencies happen, being prepared can significantly impact your travel experience and help relieve any anxiety you might have. On an ACIS Tour, you have a 24/7 overseas operating network that will take care of any issues, from missing passports to missed flights. For those traveling without ACIS support, develop an emergency plan that includes making note of the contact information for your local embassy or consulate and familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and procedures, so you’re prepared to act quickly if needed. Having a plan in place will help you stay calm and collected in any unexpected situation. 

At ACIS, we take the welfare of every one of our travelers extremely seriously. By keeping these safety tips in mind on your next, you can elevate your travel experience and enjoy your adventure with greater peace of mind.  

Happy travels!