Traveling can be an exciting and eye-opening experience. It’s easy to get caught up in the adrenaline rush of adventure. But don’t forget about travel safety considerations while you’re out of the country.

Follow these 7 travel safety tips to help you have an unforgettable trip for all the right reasons.

Research

Get thoroughly familiar with the destination before you get there. Read traveler reviews and check with locals to learn about the safest neighborhoods, accommodations, and crime rates. Check the Department of State website for country updates and enroll in the Smart Traveler Registration Program (STEP).

Another important safety precaution when traveling is knowing who to call in an emergency. Get the contact information for the nearest embassy or consulate, police station, and other local emergency departments.

Do not attract attention

People who appear foreign are especially vulnerable to crime, so try to blend in as much as you can. Choose discreet clothes that do not attract attention. Be discreet when looking at maps and approach people carefully if you need to ask for directions.

Also, consider investing in protective clothing and gear that will make it harder for pickpockets to steal money and other personal items.

Make copies of important documents

You never know when you’ll need a copy of your passport, driver’s license, or another form of identification. Scan these documents to save them online and print multiple paper copies. That way, you won’t have to scramble to find the right documents if you need to return home.

Keep your friends and family in the loop

Regardless of where you’re going, an overnight stroll, or a month-long international trip, it’s always a good idea to let friends and family back home know. Before you leave, send a copy of your itinerary to a few people you trust who may be aware of your whereabouts. Check-in with your contacts frequently so they know you’re where you’re supposed to be.

Be careful with public Wi-Fi networks

Don’t let the convenience of Internet access disturb your sanity. When you use a public Wi-Fi network, hackers on the lookout to steal valuable information can access your data, including credit card and Social Security numbers. If you really need to use wireless Internet service, set up a virtual private network (VPN) that will allow you to access the Internet securely while you’re on the go.

Protect your hotel room

Even if the hotel has stringent security measures in place, there are steps you can take to make your room more secure. Close and lock the door with the deadbolt lock and keep the windows closed. You can purchase a gag, which is a portable device that slides under the door to add another layer of protection.

Try to create the impression that you are in the room even when you are not; For example, put a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your outside door and keep your shutters or windows closed.

Don’t let any strangers into the room, even if they say they work for the hotel. You can always call the front desk and ask if any of the staff has ordered a person to come to their room.

Pay attention to your surroundings

Don’t let your guard down to take the perfect photo to upload later to social media platforms. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and use good judgment when talking to strangers. Much of the fun of traveling includes the opportunities it opens up to meet new people and learn about their cultures. But if someone near you is acting suspiciously or you feel uncomfortable, leave the area immediately.

These tips can help you travel safely if you follow them, but no matter how many precautions you take, the unexpected can always happen. Stay protected with Nationwide travel insurance and rest easy wherever you are.

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