Now, let’s not make any mistakes: there’s much to love about traveling, and it is, overall, a positive experience that everyone should make the most of. But it would be wrong to pretend that it’s all positive. Things can, of course, go wrong, and it’s up to you to take steps to limit the risk. So how do you stay safe and secure when you’re traveling around? We take a look at a few key considerations below.

Where Are You Going?

Before you visit a destination, you’ll likely do your research to determine all the must-do things while you’re there. But as well as looking up all the fun activities that await you once you land, you’ll also want to look up the potential risks. There are always dangers that are specific to a destination. As such, you’ll find that a little bit of research will go a long way. This isn’t about looking up things that’ll scare you, but rather, just to make you aware of potential dangers. You might find that there are neighborhoods that are best avoided, learn about common scams, or get some important climate advice that might prevent you from getting caught out in dangerous weather.

Be Mindful of Wifi

If you’re a traveler, then you’ll know just how useful it can be to connect to the internet as you’re moving around. It can help you to get your bearings, you can look up local events, stay in touch with friends and family back home, and so on. However, it’s important that you’re connecting to the safe and secure wifi. Many people look for any free wifi that’s available, but it’s not recommended that you connect to these open connections, because they can be used to steal your sensitive information. While it’s unlikely that something will happen if you just briefly connect, you never know which connection is going to be the one that you regret, so it’s best to just avoid them altogether.

Work with Reputable Companies

You might be in pure travel mode, but it’s worthwhile remembering that life will be going on as normal back home, and, as such, you’ll have to stay on top of your responsibilities back home. Because you’ll be many miles from home, and likely in an entirely different country, you’ll be handling all of your affairs over the phone or online, and, as such, it’s important that you’re working with companies that take potential identity fraud seriously. Before setting off, ask about their security measures. It’ll be a good sign if they’re using Jumio technology; Jumio lets you quickly verify an ID’s authenticity, which will help to keep your identity and personal information safe. If you’re working with companies that you can trust, then you’ll have peace of mind that all is well when you’re traveling.

Do Your Research 

One of the issues many people encounter when they’re traveling is shifting standards, especially when it comes to safety. Things might be conducted one way where you’re from, but there are many different ways of operating around the world, and they won’t always be of the same standard. If you’re going to take a tour where things could potentially go wrong (for example a boating trip), then make sure you’re doing your research beforehand. You might discover that their safety rating isn’t all as it should be. There will always be people who want to sell you something when you’re traveling — they have a vested interest, so don’t just take their word for it!

Keep Your Tech Safe

We talked earlier about keeping your data safe, but you’ll also want to take even more precautions to keep your pieces of kit safe. They can do damage if they have your data; things will be even worse if they have your laptop or phone since they could access your data, and you’ll also have lost an expensive item. First thing: don’t take any items that you’re unlikely to need. They’ll just be an unnecessary hassle. You’ll also want to invest in a high-quality backpack that is difficult for pickpockets to access.

Stay Street Smart

Finally, remember the number one way to stay safe and secure when you’re traveling: stay street smart! You shouldn’t visit a place thinking that everyone is going to do you harm, but a healthy dose of doubt is recommended. If something feels unsafe or sounds too good to be true, then listen to your instincts, and go elsewhere. Your senses will be the best tool in your arsenal.

So what are some tips or tools that you use to stay safe and secure when traveling? What would be the #1 piece of advice that you would share to a new traveler? Is there anything that scares you while traveling that you wish you could overcome? Let us know all about it in the comments below!

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