Enjoy your trip and be safe

You are very always excited whenever you plan a trip alone or with your family, friends. Isn't it? However a small mistake can simply ruin the fun of travel, so you need to travel very safe and take all possible precautions before and during the travel. The tips outlined below and a little vigilance will help keep you and your possessions safe.

Before you start.

• Make two photocopies of your ID, credit cards, traveler's checks, plane tickets, and insurance. Leave one set with someone you trust at home, and keep the other set with you, in a separate place from the originals.
• When packing, take only thetrue essentials - forgotten items can usually be purchased on the road. More bags mean more stress; try to keep everything together on the move.

• Do carry all medicines you may require while traveling.
• It is a good idea to carry your doctor's phone number, fax number and email address, as well as copies of prescriptions for medication you might need along the way.
• You should also pack some snacks as you never know about the delays of flight.
• It is wise to keep your luggage locked at all times. Carry several small locks and two sets of keys.

• In case of women traveling alone avoid expensive-looking camera bags and other showy accessories, which may mark you as a wealthy tourist.

Never accept food or drink from strangers. Understand that drugging is always a possibility.

If you want to sleep soundly at night, buy trip interruption/cancellation insurance, and get insurance in case anything is lost or damaged on the road. If you try to collect on a claim, it helps to have original receipts to prove the cost of your expensive purchases.

Take the unlocked phone abroad and buy a SIM card at the airport or in local stores (your hotel will be able to tell you the nearest place). So that you can easily communicate.

At the Airport:

• When you go through security at the airport, you are probably so busy taking off your shoes and tucking your lotions and liquids into zip-lock bags that you take your eyes off your personal belongings as they bump along the conveyor belt. Have your shoes and plastic bags prepared ahead of time, so you can watch your precious cargo when it leaves your hands.
• When you retrieve your checked luggage after your flight. Set down your carry-on bag, attaché case or small duffel in front of you, not behind you, as you wait for your luggage to arrive.

While Traveling:

• When between destinations, put some money, credit cards and ID in your wallet. Don't store them in shoulder bags or travel packs.
• Be especially aware in train or bus stations, or any kind transportation hub. Don't leave your pack unattended, even for a moment. Keep a firm hand on your things.
• While resting or eating, don't leave your bag over the back of your seat. Always keep it under your chair and wrap a strap around your leg or the chair's. Try not to leave your drink unattended.

In the city, store your passport, credit cards and traveler's cheques in a safe at your guest-house. Just take the amount of currency you'll need for the day.

Choose your accommodations carefully. Consider guest houses, bed and breakfasts or home stays.  Never open your door to anyone without taking the necessary precautions.

For women, no matter where you travel, it is best to dress modestly. Leave both valuable and authentic-looking costume jewelery at home.

While you should be cautious after dark, you should not feel restricted from going out at all at night. Simply take precautions.

Always remember do take all precautions to prevent yourself being attacked from thieves however sometimes it becomes difficult. If your personal safety is threatened, keep your wits about you and hand over the goods. Your safety is much more important than your belongings. Happy Journey!

(Sources: traveltowellness.com, mec.ca, voyage.gc.ca)