Have a checklist of stuff to remember before jetting off
Know your surroundings
It's a good idea to research a place before you go and learn as much as you can about it. Get maps off the internet and local maps when you're there to familiarise yourself with where essential shops and places are. Make sure you're familiar with the location of your accommodation before venturing out so you know exactly how to find it on your way back. Try and pick up some travel information, a bus timetable or train schedule and carry these around at all times.
Learn the rules
It's so important before you go to a new country or city to know their local rules and laws on clothes, crimes etc. Countries have different rules and knowing them will prevent you getting into unecessary trouble and getting on the wrong side of the locals.
Avoid travelling alone
It's safer to travel in pairs or groups however, if you do decide to travel alone, make sure your partner or a family member back home has your schedule and a list of your routes, train times, hotel names etc. Keep in contact with them whenever you can.
Learn the language
Before you go, learning how to say simple words and phrases such as "hello" and "thank you" will be a life saver when you arrive. Wherever you can, try to pick up the langauage and if you come across somebody who speaks English, ask them to help you with words you're unsure of. If you're going to a country for a long period of time where English isn't a popular language, it could be hard to communicate if you know nothing.
Take care of your valuables
Leave any important or expensive property in your hotel room or in the safe if your room has one. Make copies of your passport, identification and travel documents in case of an emergency. Carry one copy with you and leave one in the hotel. Find a safe place either on yourself or in your bag that you can hide your valuables.
Avoid unfamiliar surroundings
Especially if you're on your own, do not go somewhere unfamiliar or new at night. If you're in a group then still be cautious doing this. If you can, research surrounding areas or ask a member of staff at your accommodation to find out where to avoid and where's safe. Beware of pickpocketers if you're spending time in large cities and never have your valuables on show at night, this might make you a target.
Your mobile phone
Before you leave, it's worth checking out whether your mobile phone will work abroad. You might need to discuss, with your operator, getting an extra package to be able to use it in certain countries. The last thing you want to happen is to get abroad and your phone doesn't work. It could be worth checking out how much a text or phonecall costs as well so you don't arrive home after 6 months to a hefty bill. If you have the latest £500 phone, it might be a good idea to leave that at home in case it gets lost or stolen, and buy a much simpler, cheaper one just for your travels.
Alexandra Baracskai
Tagged in travel tips