What are the best practices for ensuring tourist safety and security abroad?

1 Research your destination

Before you book your trip, do some research on your destination and its current situation. Check the travel advisories and alerts issued by your government or other reliable sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). These will inform you of any political instability, civil unrest, natural disasters, health emergencies, crime levels, or other factors that may affect your safety and security. You should also learn about the culture, customs, laws, and etiquette of the place you are visiting, and respect them during your stay.

3 Protect your documents and valuables

One of the most common issues that tourists face abroad is losing or having their documents and valuables stolen. To prevent this, you should take some precautions to protect your passport, visa, tickets, credit cards, cash, phone, laptop, camera, jewelry, or any other items of value. You should keep them in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or a locked suitcase, and only carry what you need for the day. You should also make copies or scans of your documents and store them online or offline, in case you need to prove your identity or report a loss. You should also use secure methods of payment, such as credit cards or online platforms, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or showing off your valuables.

4 Follow health and hygiene guidelines

Another major concern for tourists abroad is getting sick or injured due to different environmental conditions, food and water quality, diseases, or accidents. To minimize this risk, you should follow some health and hygiene guidelines before and during your trip. You should consult your doctor and get any vaccinations or medications that you may need for your destination. You should also pack a first-aid kit and a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses and evacuation. You should also drink bottled or purified water, eat cooked or peeled food, wash your hands frequently, and avoid contact with animals or insects.

6 Seek help when needed

Finally, if you encounter any problems or emergencies while traveling abroad, you should not hesitate to seek help from the appropriate sources. You should know how to contact the local police, ambulance, fire department, or other emergency services in your destination. You should also know how to reach your embassy or consulate, your travel agent, your insurance company, or your family and friends. You should also be familiar with the local laws and procedures for reporting a crime, filing a claim, or requesting assistance. You should also keep calm and cooperate with the officials and professionals who are trying to help you.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?