Top Travel Risks To Consider When Planning Your Next Getaway

There is so much to look forward to when planning your next getaway. Choosing the best destination, booking entertainment while away, and selecting all the accommodation and attractions that are going to be best placed for your exploration – what's not to love? Travel risks are always something we should consider when planning travel, as this is where crime can be most prevalent and we, at our least vigilant. If you are eagerly planning your next getaway, then don't rush your security precautions, as they are going to allow you to travel freely and safely.

Let's discuss the top travel risks to consider when planning your escape and what you can do to safeguard yourself against these threats.

Cybercrime and online scams

It's no secret that the sophistication of scammers, hackers, and cybercrime is truly at its peak. This is where software like VPN is going to keep you safe and protected against those external threats. If you are wondering what a VPN is or what the VPN definition is, it means virtual private network. This virtual private network provides VPN users with an encrypted network connection so that you can access the internet and all your sensitive information on your device without the threat of third parties infiltrating your network connection and gaining access to your personal data. Before you head off on your escape, be sure to research the best VPN provider and ensure you have an account that you can readily use to keep yourself well-protected when travelling abroad.

Border exemptions, visas and threats

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly put into focus just how different each country is with their border closures and permissions. If you plan on heading to specific countries that you know may have stricter entry requirements or regulations surrounding internet access, get a good understanding of what paperwork you are going to need to freely enter and exit that destination. Perhaps you need to apply for a Visa to enter a country, and while that Visa might be very easy to acquire, you may not be able to enter without one. 

It's always best to get those administrative tasks in order, and have printed and scanned copies of them on your device and ready to go when you touch down. It is also a good idea to stay engaged in what is happening in the areas you plan to visit so you are ready for changes and closures. 

Respect cultural norms

It's important to note the travel risks are going to be relative to the person who is travelling and the destination where they are going. Some like to travel to places that are similar to where they live, and others like a complete culture shock and immersion in a new country. Whatever your preference, it is important that you respect the cultural norms and practices of your travel destinations. Not only is this the respectful thing to do, but it is actually going to keep you safe as you will not be inadvertently breaching laws, rules, or cultural customs and drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. 

For example, there are some countries where women should be wearing long pants and long-sleeve shirts when they travel,  as it's customary in their culture to not expose too much skin. Rather than wearing what you would like and making a statement based on your own beliefs, it is important that you work within the country's customs to avoid alienating the people around you. It's a good rule of thumb to research the country you are travelling to prior to planning your trip, just so you know exactly what is expected of you. 

Travel insurance and creating an emergency plan

Some may believe that creating an emergency plan might be alarmist, but you will not regret it if things go awry on your trip. Your travel insurance is going to cover the basics like cancelled flights, attaining injuries on your trip, hotel changes, and all those admin things that ensure you are not out of pocket. Creating an emergency plan will ensure that you and your travel peers know what to do in case of any kind of emergency. You also want to communicate this plan to your friends and family at home so that they can take the necessary steps if you trigger an established alarm. Some of these emergencies might include having your possessions stolen, having your passport stolen, becoming lost, and any other emergency you might find yourself in.

Pack a compact first aid kit

We keep first aid kits around the house, so it only makes sense that you would bring a compact version away with you when you travel. You don't need to go overboard, so just include things like Band-Aids and bandages, wound cleaning solutions, and any other bits and pieces that might be more tailored to your health and well-being. Having this kit will be a great line of defence and it could be critical in the event that you have been injured and need to be looked after while you locate and get to a hospital. 

Wherever your next travel destination is, be sure to implement these security tips and tricks and always be looking for new ways to keep yourself protected. These instances might be unlikely, but they do happen. If they happen to you, you want to be in the best position to respond appropriately.