Essential Safety Tips for Safer Travel

Exploring new and unfamiliar destinations is an exciting adventure, but prioritising your safety is essential, especially when navigating new places. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, staying aware and prepared is key to reducing risks while you explore.

Here are some of my essential safety tips that have helped me navigate unfamiliar cities with confidence, particularly when traveling solo. These practical, real-world strategies will help you stay mindful and better prepared during your travels.

1. Stay Informed with Local News Alerts If You’re Staying Longer

If you’re staying in a destination for an extended period, downloading local news apps or setting up notifications will keep you updated about safety issues like protests, weather alerts, or public transit strikes. However, if your trip is short—two nights, for example—it may not make sense to download multiple apps. Relying on broader platforms like Google News or asking locals for advice can suffice for shorter stays.

• Recommended Apps: Google News, BBC News, or local news outlets specific to the region.

Why It Works:

• Provides real-time updates on local events and potential safety risks.

• Allows you to adjust plans quickly based on credible local information.

2. Dress Properly to Avoid Unwanted Attention

While it’s not always possible to fully blend in, especially on short trips, dressing appropriately can help you avoid standing out as a tourist. To mitigate this, research the typical clothing styles and customs of your destination and try to match them. Avoid wearing flashy jewellery or clothes that easily identify you as a tourist, such as brightly coloured hats, t-shirts with destination logos, or large backpacks, as these can make you a target for scams or theft.

Why It Works:

• Helps minimise attention from opportunistic thieves or scammers.

• Shows respect for local customs, improving your overall travel experience.

3. Arrive During the Day When Possible

Whenever possible, schedule your arrival for daylight hours. Navigating unfamiliar streets in the dark can feel disorienting and risky. Arriving during the day not only helps you get your bearings but also makes it easier to find your accommodation. However, I understand that sometimes flight schedules don’t allow for this. Still, if you have the option, aim to arrive when it’s light out.

Why It Works:

• Daylight makes it easier to navigate and identify your surroundings.

• Reduces stress upon arrival, especially when finding your accommodation.

4. Avoid Walking at Night Especially When Traveling Solo

As a frequent solo traveler, I make it a point to avoid walking at night unless I’m with trusted friends. Even in cities that seem safe, nightfall increases potential risks. Personally, I prefer using ride-share services after dark, but reputable taxis are also a safe option. This way, you avoid unnecessary risks while ensuring your safety in an unfamiliar place.

• Recommended Apps: Uber, Bolt, Lyft.

Why It Works:

• Minimises the chances of encountering unsafe situations.

• Offers a safer, controlled alternative to walking alone at night.

5. Carry a Power Bank to Avoid Being Stranded

When traveling, especially solo, it’s essential to keep your devices charged. I always carry a power bank because I take a lot of photos and videos for content, which drains the battery faster than expected. The last thing you want is to be stranded somewhere without the ability to use your map or call a taxi due to a dead phone battery. This is one of the first things I pack, and it has saved me many times.

Why It Works:

• Keeps your phone charged so you can use maps or call for help when needed.

• Ensures you’re never stranded due to a dead battery.

6. Don’t Go Out with Strangers at Night Meet During the Day Instead

While solo travel often presents opportunities to meet new people, I avoid meeting anyone I don’t know well at night. Instead, I prefer to meet for breakfast or plan a day outing to explore the city together. This not only makes for a safer environment but also gives you more control over the situation. Plus, avoid getting too drunk when socialising—staying in control is key to staying safe.

Why It Works:

• Keeps you in safer, more familiar settings.

• Ensures you’re alert and in control of your environment when socialising.

7. Preload Offline Maps for When the Network Fails

Downloading offline maps has saved me on numerous occasions, such as when my roaming didn’t activate immediately upon arrival or when the network dropped while I was on my way to see an attraction. By preloading maps, I was able to relocate and navigate with ease. Make sure to mark important locations like your hotel, embassy, or public transport hubs.

• Recommended App: Google Maps (Offline mode).

Why It Works:

• Allows you to navigate without relying on a data connection.

• Prevents getting lost in unfamiliar locations.

8. Learn Key Phrases in the Local Language

Even in countries where English is widely spoken, knowing a few key phrases in the local language can be a lifesaver. Apps like Google Translate or Duo lingo make learning basic phrases easy and fun. This not only helps you in emergencies but also shows respect for local culture.

• Recommended Apps: Google Translate, Duo lingo.

Why It Works:

• Enables you to communicate in emergencies where English may not be understood.

• Builds rapport with locals, often resulting in faster assistance.

9. Stay Alert and Aware of Your Surroundings

No matter where you are, remaining aware of your surroundings is key to staying safe. Tourist destinations often attract pickpockets, so avoid distractions, like constantly checking your phone, and trust your instincts if something feels off.

Why It Works:

• Helps you avoid risky situations.

• Allows for quicker reactions if something feels unsafe.

10. Use Public Transport But Be Extra Cautious

I prefer using public transport as much as possible because it offers a great way to experience the city. However, I’m always cautious, especially in subways or metro stations, where pickpockets often operate. Keep your belongings secure and close to your body—tourist-heavy stations are prime spots for theft.

• Recommended Apps: City mapper (for public transport navigation), Moovit.

Why It Works:

• Public transport provides a more immersive experience while exploring.

• Staying vigilant ensures your belongings are safe from potential pickpockets.

11. Carry a Portable Door Lock or Stopper

When staying in unfamiliar accommodations, using a portable door lock or stopper can give you extra peace of mind. Whether in a hotel, hostel, or Airbnb, these small devices ensure that no one can enter your room unexpectedly. Sometimes when I don’t have a door lock or stopper with me, I use furniture in the room and place it against the door. This way, if someone tries to break in, I will hear the movement and be alerted.

Why It Works:

• Adds an additional layer of security to your accommodation.

• Provides peace of mind, especially in budget accommodations or unfamiliar settings.

Staying safe while traveling to unfamiliar destinations doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the journey. By staying informed, blending in, and using these practical safety tips, you can explore confidently and make the most of your travels. Always remember that preparation and awareness are your best tools for ensuring a safe and memorable adventure.

Check out my other blog posts:

• 10 Tips to Enjoy Luxury Travel Without Breaking the Bank

• Top 15 Travel Apps for Adventurers in 2024

• Essential Hotel Checklist: A Comprehensive Guide for Accommodation