10 Tips to stay safe when travelling

Travelling as a student is an incredibly enriching and exciting experience. It’s a chance to broaden your horizons, meet new people, and learn about different cultures. However, travelling also comes with its own set of risks, particularly when travelling at a young age. Here are ten tips for staying safe whilst you travel as a student.

Research your destination:

Before you travel, research your destination thoroughly. Find out about the culture, customs, and laws of the country you’re visiting. Download weather apps, and maps that you can use offline. Apps such as Maps.Me can be massively helpful when trying to navigate a new location, and can be key when it comes to safe travel.

Keep your valuables safe:

Pickpocketing and theft are common in many tourist destinations, so it’s important to keep your valuables safe. Keep your passport, cash, and credit cards in a secure place, such as a hotel safe or money belt. Don’t carry too much cash on you and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Take out travel insurance:

Travel insurance is essential, particularly as a student. It will protect you in the event of illness, injury, or theft. Make sure you read the policy carefully and understand what is covered and what isn’t.

Stay in a safe area:

When choosing accommodation, make sure you stay in a safe area. Check the crime rate and read reviews from other travellers to ensure that the area is safe. If you’re travelling alone, consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse where you can meet other travellers.

Be aware of scams:

Tourist scams are common in many destinations, particularly in popular tourist areas. Be aware of scams such as people offering to take your photo for money or offering to sell you something at a very low price. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Learn some basic phrases:

Learning some basic phrases in the local language can be incredibly helpful when travelling. It shows that you have made an effort to understand and respect the local culture. It can also help you to communicate with locals if you need help or advice.

Be cautious with alcohol:

Alcohol can impair your judgement and make you more vulnerable to crime. If you’re at the age where you can be drinking alcohol, be cautious and stay in control. Don’t accept drinks from strangers and don’t leave your drink unattended.

Use reputable transport:

Using reputable transport is important when travelling. Avoid unlicensed taxis or buses and use public transport or reputable taxi companies instead. If you’re using public transport, be aware of pickpockets and keep your belongings close to you.

Stay connected:

Staying connected with friends and family back home can provide an extra layer of safety when travelling. Let someone know where you are and what your plans are. Use social media to stay connected and consider using a travel app that allows you to share your location with friends.

Trust your instincts:

Finally, trust your instincts when travelling. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. If you’re unsure about something, ask for advice or seek help from a trusted source, such as a hotel receptionist or tourist information centre.

Travelling can be a life-changing experience, but it’s important to take steps to ensure your safety. By following to tips in this blog, and by researching your destination you can have an unforgettable and safe experience. Remember, safe travel is key to making the most out of your adventure.

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