Traveling to new states and countries may be complicated right now, but there’s nothing wrong with planning a trip for the future. After all, once the COVID-19 pandemic is over, many people will be hit with the travel bug and desperate to explore new parts of the world.
While some avid travelers choose to explore in groups or in pairs, some prefer to go it alone. As you start thinking about the places you want to go as a solo traveler, it is also a good idea to consider how to do it safely. Here are some important points to remember.
Bring a Contact Book
You never know when you need to make a very important phone call in an emergency or desperate situation. When you arrive at your destination, or even before heading to the airport, write down the contact information of individuals you may need to contact.
Your list may include legal aid numbers for the area where you live, such as a Maui personal injury law firm, in addition to local emergency services such as police, fire and ambulance. Accommodation providers, your insurance company and respectable taxi services can even store the number, just in case.
Research Areas
There are many lovely countries to explore, but it is vital to research more than simply the top attractions they’ve to offer. Find out which are the best neighborhoods and which you should avoid. Look at the security rating of a particular area and whether it is safe to roam at night.
It’s even worth reading reviews of accommodation providers to see if they’re safe for tourists and shut to public transportation and tourist attractions. If family and friends have traveled to place you want to visitask for their advice from their own experience.
Keep Your Valuables On You
When you explore an unfamiliar place alone, it is only natural feeling anxious. You do not know anyone and you do not know who you can trust either. However, you can certainly feel a little safer traveling with your valuables. Carry an everyday bag with your wallet, cellular phone and other important and valuable items like jewellery, camera and passport. Consider a front pack so you can see it all the time. If you wear a backpack, buy one that has an anti-theft feature for peace of mind.
Don’t Trust Too Much
As a single traveler, you can sometimes seem as vulnerable as you feel. Unfortunately, that can make you a target for scammers and thieves. Even if you are just exploring a different state or city in your home country, maintain your common sense. Don’t trust people you just met. Never leave your personal belongings with strangers, and trust your instincts if you believe you must part with your new ‘friends’.
Traveling alone can offer a chance to get to know yourself while exploring new places. However, it is vital not to let your guard down. Travel with the contact information of the people you need to access in an emergency and do your homework before setting out to explore the unknown.
