Having the opportunity to travel solo is often an once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you are traveling to a well-known destination you have explored hundreds of times before or a brand new excursion, traveling solo offers you the chance to step outside of your comfort zone, connect with the locals, and truly submerge yourself in the culture.
However, traveling alone in a foreign place can leave you susceptible to different types of dangers. In order to avoid encountering any unforeseen trouble, here a few safety tips to adhere to:
- Home Safety
Being concerned over the safety of your home while traveling can leave you distracted, which can leave you vulnerable to danger. When your defenses are down, so is your ability to keenly detect danger. Thus, protecting your home with Local ADT Home Security can give you the peace of mind you need so you can be alert while traveling.
- Stay Connected
Although many people enjoy the idea of getting off the grid, staying connected is an important aspect to safety. Usually it is more difficult to stay connected when traveling abroad, however, now a days, most cell phone companies have plans or options for foreign coverage. Additionally, you can download Wi-Fi apps like Viber where you can call and text your family and friends for free. Plus, there are international temporary phones you can purchase, which usually have GPS signals. In case you get lost, someone will be able to track you down.
If you’re in an extremely remote location, try to find any cafe where there might be Wi-Fi or computers available so you can keep in touch with others.
- Keep Others in the Loop
Similarly to the last point, regularly let others know where you’re going—and not only family and friends back home, but also your host family, hotel concierge, or innkeeper. In case you get lost or hurt, there is a community of people who know your itinerary and can send help if you don’t return in a timely manner.
- Keep Important Items in Separate Places
All of your important documents like money, credit cards, travel papers, and your passport should not all be housed in the same place. Spread out money and credit cards between a few wallets and purses, and only carry a copy of your passport information with you when you’re out and about. When sightseeing, stash your real passport, other money, and credit cards in the hotel safe.
- Research the Area
Before heading off, research your travel area thoroughly in order to stay away from high-crime areas. Additionally, your research can help you understand the social etiquette of the area.
- Safe Lodgings
Even if it’s slightly more expensive, make sure you pick a hotel or inn or host family that has good reviews. Keep your door locked at all times, and if possible, try to snag a room that isn’t on the bottom floor where it’s easy for a burglar to break in.
Above all, keep your wits about you and trust your instincts. Enjoy your experiences, but make sure to stay alert and use common safety sense.
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