Travel Safety Tips

When traveling around Europe or to any foreign country, one must take certain precautions.  First-time travelers, especially, must be aware of certain dangers and situations to avoid.  We want all of our clients to remain safe and happy while traveling, so we’ve provided you with a few important tips:

Pack Light – But Not Too Light

To avoid becoming a target while on holiday, be sure to pack as light as possible—and do not carry with you anything that may be seen as flashy or expensive. Keep valuables to a minimum, and store them in different places (ie. in various bags or pockets, or in a money belt) instead of all together.

Don’t forget the important stuff: extra glasses or contacts, travelers checks, credit cards (which are much safer to carry than cash) and any necessary medications (stored in their original, labeled containers.)

Be sure to label bags with your contact information and if possible, lock your luggage.

Remember that many hotels in Europe have safes for your convenience.  Use them.

Plan Ahead

Before you travel, be sure to stay up-to-date on any current travel alerts or warnings.  This information can be accessed 24 hours a day on the Internet, by phone or through your travel agent, local embassy, library or tourist bureau.

Be sure to thoroughly research the country that you are planning to visit.  You definitely want to be aware of any laws or customs that are unlike those you are used to.

Make photocopies of your travel documents, credit card information and passport just in case something is lost or stolen later.

Keep In Touch

Let others know about your travel plans.  Provide a family member or close friend with a copy of your itinerary and the contact information of all Europe hotels you plan to stay at.

Notify your credit card company and cell phone provider of your plans to leave the country in advance. This will help to avoid any hassles or dangers down the line.

Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

Avoid potentially shady “short cuts” like narrow alleys or dimly lit streets.  Try not to travel alone at night, and steer clear of any public demonstrations or civil disturbances.

Keep your belongings close to your body, and be wary of strangers trying to get your attention or jostle you.  They could be attempting to distract you while an accomplice steals your things.

To avoid being scammed, remember this one simple rule:  If a deal seems to good to be true—it probably is.