7 tips to travel safe this winter
Some Canadians love the cold and snowy winter, but if you’re not one for skiing or snowmobiling, you’re probably more inclined to spend as much time on a Caribbean beach this February as you can. Or maybe you’re heading to South America, or Europe, or somewhere even more wintery.
No matter whether you’re looking to relax or for adventure, going to a classic destination or checking out a current trend, travel can be good for the soul (and give you some much needed vitamin D). But while it may boost your mood, travel can also be the source of danger. Most places you’ll visit are safe, so long as you use common sense, but certain precautions are advisable. For example:
Research your destination
Before arriving, know where you should and shouldn’t go. Know where you can take a leisurely stroll and where you should stick with a guide or group. If you visit a resort, look into how safe it will be to head to the nearest town for an afternoon. You certainly don’t want to let an anecdote or two dissuade you from experiencing something new, but you want to be aware of any potential issues you might encounter.
Give someone your itinerary
If your plans are fluid this may not be possible, but it’s always good to have someone else know your general whereabouts. If you aren’t where you’re expected to be at a certain time, that person can look into things to make sure you’re alright.
Part of the fun of traveling is being spontaneous, so this might seem a little rigid. But it’s not about keeping to a schedule so much as it is about letting others determine whether something isn’t right. You don’t need to stick to every preplanned step.
Make Photocopies of your passport, ID and credit cards
Losing your passport in a foreign country is bad. If you show up for your return flight and hand them a photocopy, security isn’t going to be too impressed. But having your passport information secured will make the recovery process much easier. Same with your ID. If you lose your wallet and have no documentation to prove you are who you say you are, your situation goes from bad to worse.
Keeping a copy of your credit card will allow you to buy things online and sometimes over the phone. In an emergency, this can be a real difference-maker.
Purchase travel insurance
Travel insurance covers you in a number of ways. From missed flights to lost luggage to medical emergencies, insuring yourself can help you avoid some serious travel calamities. The worst case scenario is that you pay for it and don’t need it. Luckily, travel insurance is usually inexpensive and, if nothing else, gives you a little peace of mind on your trip.
Be careful with your money
Tourists are the target of theft in many cities around the world. That’s why it’s important to be aware of your money. If carrying a purse, sling it across your opposite shoulder so that no one can easily pull it free. Carry your wallet in your front pocket so it’s more difficult to snatch away. You can also keep your cash in a travel belt that zips up to ensure it is safe.
Know where the embassy is
Take a quick look for the address of the Canadian embassy in the country you’re visiting. It’s always good to have friends with resources that can help you get out of a jam, whether at home or abroad.
Use common sense
Some people are over-cautious when they travel, while others are flat out reckless. You want to find the balance that allows you to experience an unknown place without putting yourself at risk. Usually the best way to find this sweet spot is to exercise common sense. This means recognizing that you aren’t on your home turf, but also that that does not mean every person you see is out to get you.