Okay, so I’ve been doing a lot of traveling lately, and a bunch of you have been asking about safety, especially in, like, “third-world” countries. I get it, it can be kinda scary. So, here’s how I’ve been handling it, from start to finish.
Did Some Serious Research First
Before I even booked a flight, I spent hours digging into the specific places I wanted to visit. Not just the touristy stuff, but the actual neighborhoods. I mean, I hit up forums, read travel blogs (the real ones, not just the pretty Instagram pics), and even tried to find local news articles online.
I was looking for patterns, you know? Like, are certain areas known for petty theft? Are there any political protests happening? What are the scams that I should look out for?
Got My Documents in Order
This might sound boring, but it’s super important. I made copies of my passport, visa, and any other important documents. I kept one set with me, separate from the originals, and I left another set with someone I trust back home. I also scanned everything and uploaded it to a secure cloud storage, so I can access them whenever I need them as long as I get the Internet.
Learned Some Basic Phrases
I’m not saying you need to become fluent, but learning a few key phrases in the local language can make a huge difference. Things like “hello,” “thank you,” “please,” “where is the bathroom?” and “help!” can go a long way. I used a language learning app to get the basics down. It’s not perfect, but it helps!
Packed Smart
I ditch the flashy jewelry and expensive-looking clothes. I try to blend in as much as possible. I also use a cross-body bag that’s hard to snatch, and I keep it in front of me at all times. I got a money belt for extra security, too, for storing large amounts of cash.
Stayed Aware of My Surroundings
This is probably the biggest thing. When I’m out and about, I’m constantly paying attention to what’s going on around me. I try to avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. If a situation feels sketchy, I trust my gut and get out of there.
- Keep my head up, make eye contact (but not in an aggressive way), and just generally look like I know where I’m going.
- Try not to be glued to my phone. I have a quick look at a map, then put it away.
- Stay away from big crowds if they feel unsafe.
Kept Others Informed
I let someone back home know my itinerary, and I check in with them regularly. It doesn’t have to be every hour, but just a quick message every day or two to let them know I’m okay.
Bought Travel Insurance
I never thought I’d need it, but I got it. Just in case. Make sure your insurance covers medical emergencies, theft, and anything else that might happen while you are away.
Honestly, it’s all about being prepared and using common sense. Don’t let fear stop you from exploring the world, but also don’t be naive. Do your research, stay alert, and you’ll be fine!
