We all want to travel safely. Finally being able to relax and not worry about anything – that’s what a vacation is all about. So that you don’t have to worry while traveling, we’ve put together the 14 most important tips on what you should keep in mind for your own safety while traveling, how to protect your valuables, and what you shouldn’t do under any circumstances. This way you can discover the world without worries.
#1 The choice of your destination
It is better to avoid countries where the political situation is particularly heated. Because here it can become really dangerous. The German Foreign Office provides extensive information on individual countries. Here you can already find out when planning your trip whether your desired destination could possibly be risky.
You should always be careful when traveling near crowds and demonstrations. Especially in politically tense regions, the situation could escalate and you could be in danger. Here, too, you can find out in advance from the German Foreign Office what you need to be aware of.
#2 Take out health insurance abroad
International health insurance is a must for any international trip. Within the EU you don’t have to worry about it for trips of a few weeks. Your normal public or private health insurance covers all important benefits.
For trips outside the EU, however, a special international health insurance is highly recommended: It protects you from the high costs of medical care abroad, covers possible evacuations and repatriation. Check the terms carefully and make sure it covers your needs and activities. This protection can make the difference between a worry-free trip and a financial disaster. Remember to always carry a copy of your insurance policy and have emergency contact information handy.
#3 Prepare vaccinations and medications
Vaccinations are not only important for particularly exotic destinations. Some diseases are not an issue in Germany, but are common in other countries. Hepatitis A or tuberculosis, for example, are rare in this country, but are common in Brazil and in some Eastern European countries.
There are special offers on the web that give you information about which vaccinations you need for your trip. Research which internet sites offer the relevant information in your country.
You can also find a doctor in your area where you can get the necessary vaccinations. When you visit your doctor, you can also ask which medications you should definitely take with you on your trip.
More on the topic: Travel first-aid kit packing list
#4 Copy important documents and write down phone numbers
Before starting your trip, you should make a copy of vehicle and identification documents, as well as airline tickets. If the original documents are lost, the copies will be helpful in obtaining replacement documents. It is best to carry the most important documents on your person at all times for identification purposes. You should also write down important phone numbers and not just store them in your cell phone. If your mobile phone breaks down, is lost or stolen, you can still reach all important people.
#5 Stay in contact
Keep your family or friends updated on your travel plans. Let them know where you’re going, when you’ll be back and how they can reach you in case of an emergency. In case of unforeseen events or emergencies, you can get help faster.
#6 Keep cash and documents safe
Always carry money (as well as credit cards and other important documents) close to your body: preferably in a flat money belt, a breast pocket, or a hard-to-reach inside pocket of your jacket. Shoulder bags or daypacks are not safe places for your valuables and papers. They can easily be snatched from your hand or opened unnoticed by potential thieves.
Spread out your cash in different places: Use the hotel safe! You can also stash some of your cash in your chest pouch, another in your fanny pack or in the secret compartment of your backpack, etc. This way, not everything is gone at once if you do get robbed. In addition to cash, you should always have a debit or credit card with you. In many places you can only pay with a card.
In crowds, carry bags close to your body, preferably tucked under your arm. Data theft has also become an issue here. RFID protection in your wallet prevents sensitive data from your ID and other cards from being read unnoticed.
#7 Using public WLAN networks safely
Mobile Internet is commonplace today. Expensive cell phone bills due to roaming charges are therefore a thing of the past. However, if you don’t have unlimited data volume at your disposal, you’ll be happy to use the free WLAN in hostels, cafés, etc. However, using public networks is not always secure, since data is transmitted unencrypted here. This means that sensitive data can be stolen from your device. In the worst case, your device can even be damaged. You can find out how best to behave when using public Wi-Fi networks from the consumer advice center.
#8 Attach address data to your luggage
In case your luggage gets lost – for example at the airport – it is always good to have a name tag on your backpack or suitcase. This increases the chance of getting your things back. A simple name tag with your contact information will do. However, make sure that your data is not publicly visible, but hidden in a case, for example.
#9 Don’t let luggage and valuables out of your sight
You should never leave valuables unattended when traveling. When sitting in a café or restaurant, do not leave bags and backpacks alone. This also applies to public transportation. At the very least, always take your valuables with you when you go to the restroom or to the counter. In busy places, you can also simply hold your luggage on your lap or place a chair leg or your foot in the shoulder strap of your backpack. That way, no one can easily pick it up as you walk by. Always put wallets and credit cards away immediately after use.
#10 Adding locks to luggage and travel backpacks
Even for backpacks, there are small padlocks and fuses that you can use to lock the zippers. In any case, it is advisable to take a padlock with you. You may need it for your locker in the hostel, for example. For travelers with destination or stopover in the USA, a TSA lock is recommended. If the local air safety authority (TSA) wants to check your luggage, they have a master key and the lock will not be destroyed. If you are traveling by bike, a bike lock is mandatory!
#11 Using public transportation and cab services safely
Trusted public transportation is usually safer than private rides. Use official cab services when you’re out and about, and avoid hailing rides from strangers. Check prices in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
#12 Stowing luggage in the trunk
When traveling by car, luggage should only be transported in the trunk if possible. Objects on the passenger seat or in the trunk are very tempting for thieves. The vehicle itself should not be left unattended in highway parking lots, for example.
#13 Pay attention even during conversations
Be careful if strangers try to engage you in conversation – especially in parking lots, rest areas and at ATMs, this is a popular trick to distract a potential theft victim while an accomplice tampers with the luggage. After withdrawing the money, put it away as unobserved as possible. You should also avoid dubious offers.
#14 Respect local laws and cultures
This point should go without saying: respect the culture and laws of your host country. Learn about local customs, dress appropriately and avoid disrespectful behavior. This not only contributes to your safety, but also promotes a positive image of travelers.
Conclusion: Listen to your gut feeling
Traveling safely doesn’t seem so easy with all the advice. However, you should not forget one thing: Of course it’s good to be careful and to look after your things. With our advice you should be able to do that. But don’t drive yourself crazy! Not everyone who starts a conversation with you wants to steal your stuff right away. It’s best to inform yourself about the security situation beforehand and listen to your gut feeling: If something seems strange to you, don’t get involved. If a situation makes you uncomfortable or you feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to take action. For example, leave a place that doesn’t feel safe and avoid risky situations in the first place.
If you’re not careless and follow the tips listed here, there should be virtually nothing standing in the way of a worry-free trip!
