Staying Safe Traveling

Exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, meeting people and creating lasting memories is just some of the top reasons why people travel. Whether you are walking in a bustling New York city, trekking in the Juggles of southeast Asia, or rafting in the river Nile, safety should always be your top priority.

Staying Safe Starts with Awareness

Risk is always present when traveling and with thorough planning and research, you can proactively address, minimize and prepare for the numerous risks and challenges while traveling overseas.

  1. Research Your Destination: Before you book your ticket it is crucial to conduct thorough research about your destination to learn more about the local culture, laws, customs and any travel advisories issued by the Government. Learning more about your destination can help you prepare mentally on what to expect when you arrive.
  2. Travel Insurance: Learn more about the best travel insurance plan that best fits your destination and type of travel. Investing in a comprehensive travel insurance policy covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost luggage can help protect you from the unexpected when traveling abroad.
  3. Share Your Travel Itinerary with Family or Trusted Friends: It is recommended to share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member so that they are aware of your travel movements and can reach you in case of emergencies.
  4. Get Emergency Contact Numbers and Embassy Details: Stay updated with the latest contact details of your embassy as well as contact details of your travel insurance’s local affiliate and contact numbers of emergency services of your area.
  5. Vaccinations and Health Precautions: A number of countries have strict entry requirements regarding vaccinations. You may be denied entry or required to undergo vaccination upon arrival without proof of specific vaccinations. Always carry a small first-aid kit with essential supplies but consult first with your airline’s carry-on and checked-in baggage regarding medical supplies.
  6. Cultural Sensitivity: Always respect local customs, traditions and dress code when traveling overseas.
  7. Limit Access in Social Media: Limit who can see your social media updates to avoid home break-ins while you are abroad.

One of the best sources of reliable information is the United State Travel Advisories. We strongly recommend visiting this website before choosing your travel destination. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/

Cyber Security Abroad

Keeping cyber security is another key consideration when traveling abroad. With the global availability of public internet access like Wifi in international airports, bus terminals and airplanes they can potentially open you up to cyber security risks especially with compromised terminals and public routers.

  1. Use Secure Connections: Avoid public Wi-Fi networks for senstive activites like accessing banking applications.
  2. Updated Devices: Ensure that all devices are updated with the latest software updates and security patches.
  3. Use Strong Passwords: Utilize complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for all accounts.
  4. Be Aware of Phishing Attempts: Always be mindful of opening suspiscios email or clicking links from unknown sources.
  5. Avoid Public Computers and Devices: Refrain from using public computers or USB drives for accessing personal account information or transfering senstive data.
  6. Be Mindful of using USB ports to Charge: Be mindful of using USB ports to charge your mobile devices. Preferably use a AC/DC adapter instead as some USB charging ports may have data transfer capability.

Protecting Personal Information Abroad

  1. Keep your Passport Secure: Avoid sharing pictures of your password on social media. Your passport contains senistive personal information that may open you up to identity theft.
  2. Avoid Posting Your Ticket Details: Refrain from posting specific information about your flight like the boarding pass. Boaring passes can contain senstive booking references that cyber criminals can use to access your travel history or manipulate your travel booking.
  3. Currency Exchange: Always transact business with officially accedited currency exchanges like banks. In most cases, when changing currency they usually copy take a photo copy of your passport. Always ensure that your passport is visible or near your presence at all times.
  4. Familiarize Yourself with the Data Privacy Laws of Your Destination Country: Various countries have distinct laws governing data privacy and the scrutiny of electronic devices. While traversing their networks, such as the Internet, email, or phone communications, your data might undergo monitoring or storage without your explicit consent. This includes the potential for authorities to access or retain information transmitted through these channels.