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Before you leave home, research your destination thoroughly. Know the local weather, is the area known for potential natural disasters (i.e., hurricanes, etc.).
Are there any health risks, food concerns, can you drink the water? Knowing this information will help you pack for the climate and prepare for any possible health issues.
Will there be a language barrier? If so, consider learning everyday phrases to find taxi’s, bathrooms, restaurants, etc.
2. PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE
I know that this topic is one that brings many different thoughts, ideas, and concerns.
Travel insurance is a crucial piece of any trip. It is meant to protect you or your travel companion in case of an emergency. It can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen belongings, and other unforeseen events.
Make sure to read the policy carefully and understand what it covers before purchasing it. Also, make sure your medical insurance can be used if needed at your destination. If not, you may also need temporary medical insurance.
Knowing you are covered by a travel insurance policy, both for travel and/or medical, will give you peace of mind if something unexpected were to happen.
Before you travel, it is always a good idea to share your itinerary and emergency contact information with someone you trust. This person should know your dates of travel, flight details, hotel reservations, and any other important information about your trip.
Make copies of your passport, ID, and travel insurance so that if something happens you can get the information from your emergency contact, or help you notify the authorities if needed.
4. PACK A FIRST-AID KIT
Packing a first-aid kit is essential to have available when traveling. You should include items such as band-aids, pain relievers, antihistamines, inti-diarrhea medication, indigestion tablets, alcohol wipes, etc. You should have the ability to treat minor injuries, and a possible cold while traveling.
Also pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip. I always pack two additional days just to be safe.
Before you travel, make 2 copies of important documents such as passports, visas, ID’s, credit cards you are taking, global entry card, etc. Leave one set of copies at home with your emergency contact. Take the other copy and put it in a safe place. Always keep the copy in a different place than you will keep the original document in case of loss or theft.
Research the local emergency numbers for your destination. Place them with your document copies. In case of an emergency, you can quickly access local authorities. You may also want to add them digitally to your phone.
During your trip, make sure you stay informed and know your surroundings. Depending on where you are traveling you may want to register with your local embassy or consulate in case of an emergency.
Make sure to bring extra cash just in case. Having emergency cash on hand can be a lifesaver in case of lost or stolen credit cards, or if you need to pay for unexpected expenses such as medical care or transportation. This is especially true when traveling abroad.
Always be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables close to you. Consider wearing a money belt for credit cards and extra cash.
Keep your phone charged and bring a backup charger just in case.
This may sound crazy but carry a whistle. This is especially a good idea if you are traveling alone. The whistle noise will attract attention and will help signal for help.
It is important to research and follow local customs while traveling. When visiting certain areas, or museums, make sure there is not a dress code. Knowing this information will help you to not unintentionally offend the locals.
If an emergency happens, it is important to stay calm and assess the situation and define the next steps. Most challenges that happen while traveling can be solved quickly if you have a plan.
If for some reason you have a medical emergency, get help right away. Contact the lobby of your resort or hotel, contact guest services, etc. They will help you take the next steps and help you contact help.
Being prepared for an unexpected challenge or emergency while traveling is essential to keep you safe, minimize the negative impact of any unexpected situation, and give you peace of mind that you have a plan, just in case.
