Summary of Travel Safety Tips
Our Top Safety Tips for Travel
A lot of people take time to plan a vacation, but how many individuals actually consider potential problems during their trip? It’s not the most thrilling aspect of planning, yet preemptive measures can save considerable heartaches. Here are some essential travel safety tips that will lead you to a carefree and secure vacation.
Before Leaving for Your Vacation
Planning for a safe vacation starts before leaving home. With every trip we undertake, we have a set of preparations to ensure we leave nothing to chance, making for a relaxing experience and equipping ourselves for any emergencies.
- Establish a routine. Consider our Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist for guidance.
- Before traveling, check relevant government websites for health and safety information pertaining to your intended destination. Staying informed is crucial.
- In Canada, we consult the Canadian Government travel advisories and the U.S. State Department for vital updates.
Get Travel Insurance
Acquiring travel insurance is our top priority before traveling. We confirm our full coverage duration with our provider and review permitted activities. If engaging in high-risk activities such as rock climbing or scuba diving, scrutinize your policy for exclusions. We also find it more cost-effective to be insured on a joint policy rather than separately.
Annual Plan vs Single Trip
Considering our frequent travels, we opt for an annual medical travel insurance plan, which not only streamlines the process but also proves more economical than purchasing separate plans for each journey.
Travel Emergencies Can Happen
Mishaps can occur anywhere. From motorcycle accidents in Thailand to serious health issues in Africa, we have faced numerous challenges. Thankfully, insurance has alleviated some burdens, covering medical expenses and flights home when necessary.
Emergency Information on Hand
It’s essential to have all your important documents organized and accessible in times of crisis. Make copies of your passports, health insurance, and maintain a list of crucial phone numbers. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the emergency contact numbers for the country you’re visiting, as not all nations use 911.
While on Your Trip
Stay alert and aware of your environment. Many people mistakenly relax their vigilance while on holiday. Keeping the following points in mind will help you maintain safety throughout your travels.
Money and Cards
To safeguard against theft, we separate our finances by dividing cash and cards, maintaining strategic backups in different bags. Only a small portion of cash and one or two cards are kept accessible, while everything else is secured in the hotel safe.
Keep Important Documents with You
We learned the hard way about the importance of carrying essential documents and belongings with you at all times. A past experience taught us to never place all valuables in a single bag.
Foods to Avoid When Traveling
Food safety is paramount during travels, and we’ve experienced the consequences of disregarding caution. We eat only well-cooked meals and avoid raw fruits or vegetables.
- Choose foods that are either cooked or can be peeled.
- Request bottled water at resorts, unless assured of purified water.
- Steer clear of perishable foods left out too long.
Car Rentals
Renting cars enhances our travel experience, allowing for exploration of untouched areas. However, we ensure we adhere to best practices when renting vehicles.
- Booking your rental in advance can significantly save costs, especially when bundled with flight reservations.
Car Insurance
Before renting a car, review your insurance coverage through your credit card or primary provider to understand your protections. Peace of mind is sometimes worth the additional cost.
Learn from Our Mistakes
Years of experience and caution have helped us develop these travel safety habits. It’s best to prioritize preparation and awareness from the outset to ensure a secure journey.
