Even the most careful traveller will have occasions when something goes wrong on a trip. According to our travel expert Michelle Jackson - The Novel Traveller, the best way to avoid unnecessary circumstances is preparation. If you need some tips on how to be safe when traveling, here’s what you need to know.
Back up all your travel documents
Photographing them and sending them to yourself by email so that you have the details on hand in an emergency. This goes especially for your passport, any visas, paperwork or flight details. Include your travel insurance details and important telephone numbers for your bank and next of kin. Put important addresses into a list and put them in one easily accessible file to pull up on your email. Take photocopies of your documents and keep them at home.
Leave valuable items at home
Wearing expensive jewelry can be stressful and if you're heading to a warm destination, do you really want marks on your tan?
Inform your bank about your plans to travel
Make sure that you inform your bank about your plan to travel beforehand. You can take money out in most ATMs around the world, once you have a Mastercard or another worldwide recognised brand on your debit/credit card. Taking cash out as you need on your holiday is safer but be aware that a standard minimum charge applies per withdrawal.
Don't carry all your cash in one place
Break it up into different places and if you have pockets don’t put money in the back pockets of your jeans or trousers. Don’t put valuables in a backpack where they can be pilfered while on a busy train or shopping at a market.
Be aware of your surroundings
Most people that you will meet on your travels are lovely and you will find warmth and welcome in the most unexpected of places. Travel reduces prejudices and it's a great way to meet new people. But there are scams in certain countries to watch out for – this shouldn’t stop you mingling with the locals but do remain vigilant and try to spot signs that are a bit odd.
Don’t go off alone with someone in a taxi or to their house
As we’ve said, scams can happen often when traveling in a new country, especially if you’re naïve with where you go (and who with). Be wary of street guides or overly-friendly salespeople – they may be trying to part you from your hard-earned cash.
Guided tours from a reputable company will prevent instances like this. If your hotel recommends a tour you can be sure they will deliver. Do your research online before you go. TripAdvisor is a great source of first-hand experience and do check the dfa.ie website for up-to-date news on all countries before you travel.
Whether you’re taking a single trip, many trips, a family holiday or a business trip, Aviva have got you covered. Visit here to learn more about our travel insurance that best meets your needs.
Safe travels!
