Tips for traveling safely and minimizing risks in unfamiliar places

Traveling to unknown destinations can be an enriching experience, but it is essential to adopt smart strategies to minimize risks in unknown places.

By exploring new cultures and environments, you may face unexpected challenges that, with proper planning, can be avoided or reduced.

In this article, we present valuable tips to ensure a smooth and safe journey, even in the most exotic destinations.

1. Preliminary Planning: The Foundation for Safe Travel

Before you hit the road, invest time in detailed research about your destination. Identify points of interest, weather conditions, and potential risks.

According to a study by ABAV (Brazilian Association of Travel Agencies), 85% of tourists who obtain information about destinations in advance report safer and more satisfactory experiences.

Also, research the local culture to avoid behavior that could be interpreted as offensive. Understanding customs helps create more authentic connections and avoid misunderstandings.

Additionally, find out about local laws, especially regarding alcohol consumption, photography in public places and practices that may be considered illegal.

Another important tip is to create a detailed but flexible itinerary. Have a plan B for any changes and share your schedule with friends or family.

This ensures that someone knows where you are, even if something unexpected happens.

Search Tips:

• Read blogs and reports from other travelers.
• Consult official sources, such as embassies and consulates.
• Use apps that offer offline maps and reviews of tourist attractions.

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2. Choosing Accommodation: Where to Stay Makes All the Difference

Choosing safe accommodation is crucial to minimize risks in unfamiliar places.

Choose establishments that are well rated on reliable platforms, such as Booking.com or Airbnb. Also, try to stay in central, well-lit areas that offer easy access to essential services and public transportation.

Make sure the accommodation has clear cancellation and refund policies. This can be a relief if you have to make last-minute changes to your itinerary.

Please feel free to contact the hotel or host directly with specific questions about safety and amenities.

Also, look for recent guest reviews.

Outdated reviews may not reflect the current reality of a property. Detailed reviews, especially about cleanliness and safety, are a good indicator of the quality of a property.

Items to Check at Accommodation:

• 24 hour security presence.
• Facilities such as safes and electronic locks.
• Proximity to hospitals and police stations.

3. Adopt a Discreet Attitude: Security in Behavior

Avoiding attracting unnecessary attention is an efficient way to reduce risks.

Maintaining a discreet posture helps to avoid scams and theft.

Therefore, wear clothes that don't give away that you are a tourist and avoid showing off expensive jewelry or electronic devices.

When in high-traffic areas, keep your personal belongings close at hand.

Crossbody bags and backpacks with protected zippers are smart choices.

Avoid wearing valuables that might attract attention, such as expensive watches or high-end cameras.

Furthermore, another essential point is to observe the behavior of the people around you.

If you notice something out of the ordinary, trust your intuition and avoid interactions that seem suspicious.

Being aware of your surroundings is one of the best ways to prevent risky situations.

Behavior Tips:

• Be careful when displaying maps or asking for directions in public.
• Speak in a moderate tone and respect local customs.
• Identify safe routes before you head out to explore.

4. Travel Insurance: An Essential Investment

Many travelers neglect the importance of travel insurance, but it can be your greatest ally in unexpected situations.

Coverage includes everything from medical problems to lost luggage.

When purchasing, read the policy details carefully to understand what is included.

Make sure you choose insurance that covers the specific activities you plan to undertake.

For example, if you plan to practice extreme sports, make sure these events are covered.

Also, check if the insurance company offers support in Portuguese or a language you understand.

Another tip is to keep a digital copy of the policy in an accessible location, such as your email or a cloud storage application.

In the event of an emergency, this makes it easier to contact the insurance company and speeds up the process of requesting assistance.

Benefits of Travel Insurance:

• Emergency medical care anywhere in the world.
• Refund for cancellation or postponement of trips.
• Assistance in cases of lost documents.

See too: Smart Money Saving Tips for Travelers: Lodging, Transportation, and More

5. Secure Digital Connection

Staying connected is essential, but it can also be a vulnerability.

To minimize risks in unfamiliar places, use private networks (VPNs) when accessing public Wi-Fi and avoid conducting financial transactions on shared devices.

Whenever possible, use mobile data instead of open Wi-Fi networks.

Public networks are frequent targets for hackers, who can intercept sensitive information.

Also, avoid saving passwords or payment information on temporary or commonly used devices.

Another important precaution is to disable automatic connections on mobile devices.

This prevents your device from automatically connecting to untrusted networks.

Small actions like these make a big difference in digital security.

Tools for Greater Digital Security:

• Use two-step authentication for your accounts.
• Prefer mobile connections over open Wi-Fi networks.
• Update passwords before and after your trip.

6. Safe Transportation: Smart Choices

When using transport in unfamiliar places, give preference to regulated services.

Apps like Uber and Lyft offer added security by tracking your rides in real time. If you must use public transportation, familiarize yourself with the routes and avoid off-peak times.

If you rent a vehicle, familiarize yourself with local traffic laws.

Some countries have specific rules that may differ significantly from those in Brazil.

Also check the condition of the vehicle before leaving, ensuring that it is in good working order.

Also, always have the address of your destination written down, preferably in the local language.

This helps in situations where communicating with drivers or guides becomes a challenge.

7. Health First: Preventative Care

For international destinations, check the required vaccinations and bring a basic first aid kit.

Constant hydration and adequate nutrition are essential to maintain energy and avoid discomfort.

Consult a doctor before traveling, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

He or she may recommend specific medications or even adjust your medication for the climate or altitude of your destination.

Another crucial point is to respect your body’s limits.

Long journeys can be tiring, and adequate rest is essential to make the most of your experience.

8. Avoid Common Scams: Pay Extra Attention

Tourists are easy targets for scammers.

Be aware of known scams, such as "taxi drivers without a meter" or "people offering help in an insistent manner." Researching the techniques used in your destinations can help prevent uncomfortable situations.

Also be careful with excessively advantageous offers.

Scams involving currency exchange or fake tour packages are common in tourist areas.

Therefore, always prefer recommended services and trustworthy establishments.

Also, avoid sharing personal information with strangers.

Scammers may use this data for unauthorized access or other harmful purposes.

Traveling to unknown destinations requires preparation and attention, but with the right strategies, it is possible to minimize risks in unknown places and make the most of the experience.

Plan, get informed and live the adventure responsibly!

Travel Agent Team Published on January 14, 2025