12 tips for traveling abroad safely

Traveling abroad safely is possible and we would even say necessary, as it brings us many advantages. When we connect with cultures different from ours, we open our minds and eradicate prejudices.

New customs, flavors and aromas do not teach that we are not uniqueRather, the reality is very different in other latitudes and it is worth knowing how people live in other regions.

Safety when traveling abroad is not a minor issue and it is the first thing we have to take into account, not only when choosing a destination, but also when visiting it. From the restrictions and requirements of each country, through its traditions, gastronomy and inhabitants, the range of precautions is very wide.

That is why we present below 13 tips so that your trip abroad can take place with ease and safety. It is worth clarifying that many of them respond to common sense, but many times because of their obviousness we ignore them or take them for granted.

1. Information about the destination

You have to look for all kinds of information about the destination you have chosen. The ideal is that explore reliable sources such as the government pages of that country, or on the official pages of your same place of residence. It is very easy to find information about any part of the world.

Among the data that you must collect, do not forget the visa, documents, the country's health situation, mandatory vaccinations, currency and telephone numbers of interest, among others. We want to highlight the topic of vaccination below.

Perhaps where you live there are no diseases such as cholera, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies or Zika, but they do constitute a scourge for other nations. You can find updated information in the Spanish Association of Vaccination.

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2. Documentation

In addition to your identity document, some countries require passport, visas and international driver's license. In this sense, you should consult the consulate or embassy of the place you are going to visit about the procedures to carry out these procedures.

Check the expiration dates of all your documentation. It seems logical, but many times we overlook it.

3. Travel assistance insurance

It is essential when embarking on a trip to another country. It does not matter if your state of health is optimal and if you are a healthy person; travel insurance is not negotiated.

It's more, the insurance policy must be the most complete of all, of those that include an evacuation by medical plane. They also include flight losses, theft, family emergencies and civil liability.

Always have at hand the contact details of the consulate or embassy of your country of origin. In the event of any unforeseen event, it is through these entities that emergencies are managed, such as attacks, natural disasters, coups, among others. We are not fatalistic or negative, but realistic.

4. Currency and cell phone

We suggest you enter the country of destination with some local currency, because you might get better change outside the airport. Although credit and debit card transactions are common around the world, you may need cash in certain places.

With regard to the phone, you must enable it for data use abroad. Always check the costs of this service, because in some cases it is very expensive and it is convenient to use the local Wi-Fi. This is also part of traveling abroad safely.

5. Attention to the environment

Leaving aside the bureaucratic issues, we are going into something a little more practical so that your stay abroad is safe. Always pay attention to what is going on around you.

We know that some monuments and tourist sites can be dazzling and capable of capturing 100% of your attention. However, you always have to be aware of what happens near you.

Crowds are a special occasion for criminals to do their thing and go after the unwary. It's not about being paranoid, but about keep a minimum state of alert and take a look at those around us.

6. Your attitude to travel abroad safely

Your body language is key when it comes to attracting or repelling possible attacks. According to a study, criminals choose their victims according to their degree of vulnerability, which is reflected in the way they walk and function.

As much as you feel fear or tremendous insecurity, don't let it show. Act and walk like nothing is happening. Criminals spend their time studying their potential victims, while we are distracted enjoying the environment.

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7. The cold mind

In the event that you are assaulted, do not chase the thief, do not start a fight, and do not resist. Your life is more valuable than any of the objects that can be stolen from you. Remember that you have travel insurance that will take care of everything.

8. Money and documentation

Never keep all your money, cards or documents in one place, because if it is stolen you will lose everything. It is assumed that you are already aware of the payment preferences at the destination, so you will have decided how to pay in hotels, restaurants and excursions.

For example, you can divide cash and cards between a handbag, backpack, suitcase, and cloth bags that go under clothing. Another suggestion is to carry two purses or wallets; In one you put only a little money and some expired cards and in the other that you have, you hide the valid cards and the rest of the cash. If you have the misfortune to be robbed, the thief will only take the bad wallet.

In relation to documentation, try to make a copy of everything (visa, passport, vaccination card, driver's license, identity document) and keep these copies in a pendrive or in your email. So you will have everything available at any time and place.

9. Low profile

It is not necessary to show your camera or your cell phone all the time. We suggest you keep them hidden until you use them. The same happens with expensive watches, computers and other electronic devices that can attract a lot of attention.

10. Backpacks and bags

Try not to carry backpacks with easy-to-open closures that remain on the back, because they can be opened in a second without you noticing. Use padlocks for the closures of those compartments in which you keep important objects.

11. Scams specific to each country

Each country has its own criminal traditions, which you should know in advance. For example, sometimes those who beg on the street and ask you for a coin may do so to reveal the whereabouts of your wallet or to distract you while someone else steals something from you. It may also be that they genuinely ask for your help; we just don't recommend taking the risk.

12. Personal instinct

To travel abroad safely, don't forget to pack your intuition. Always listen to that little inner voice That tells you "do not go" or "do not do it". It's the sixth sense, and it usually never fails.

Traveling abroad safely is possible

Traveling is one of the most enriching activities that exists. Reduce stress and anxiety and promote a healthier relationship with yourself and those around you.

Never let fear of the unknown take away your desire to travel. Fear is not bad, as long as we know how to handle and control it without allowing it to override us.

You do not have to distrust everyone or be friends with anyone who approaches you, but it is important to know how to balance the degree of friendship that you establish with strangers. Relax, but always with one eye ajar.