Back to Travel: Solo-Travel Safety Tips

Contributing Author December 14, 2021 2

Travel is a great way to explore the world and learn about other cultures. However, it’s important to keep an arsenal of precautions in place when you’re back out there exploring again. In this article, we will discuss six tips for staying safe while traveling to keep your vacation as stress-free as possible.

1) Research Before You Go:

Before leaving home, research the area you’ll be visiting and any potential hazards there. This should include looking up travel blogs of people who have been there recently, talking to locals about what they recommend doing or avoiding certain areas, etc. You might also want to research how feasible different modes of transportation are (driving vs. walking; bus vs. train; etc.). Seek out local blogs by residents too! These are great resources when looking for finding what the locals do and eat and can help in guiding you to the safest, most fun areas to visit. In Hoboken and Jersey City for example, we like Hoboken Girl.

2) Be Mindful Of Your Surroundings:

This might seem obvious but it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings at all times. This includes being cautious about where you go, ensuring that you’re not alone if possible, and always taking extra steps to stay safe. This includes not taking unnecessary risks – such as hitchhiking. In crowded spaces like a packed subway car, always secure your valuables to avoid pickpockets.

a man taking a selfie in a busy street — Keep the good stuff secure when in crowded spaces. Jake in Seoul, South Korea.

3) Have A Backup Plan:

In case of an emergency, it is vital to have a backup plan. This could include having the address and contact information of your hotel or Airbnb host handy, memorizing key phrases in the local language, or even carrying a small amount of cash on you in case you need to take a taxi somewhere.

4) Always Have An Emergency Kit And Plan:

It is a good idea to have a basic first aid kit on you at all times. This includes bandages, painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications, and sterile gloves if necessary. You should also be aware of the nearest hospital in case anything happens while you’re traveling!

5) Have Accidental Emergency Systems In Place:

Make sure that you have a way to contact someone at home if needed. This could be through carrying contact information for your host, having them put on speed dial on your phone, or including their number in the “ICE” section of your contacts list (In Case of Emergency). In addition, it is a good idea to have travel insurance in case of an emergency. “Have YOU been in an accident?!”… You should also have the details of your car accident attorneys on hand so that you can immediately call them if you happen to be involved in a car accident.

a man holding a glass of beer — Watch your booze. Important to stay with and keep an eye on your drink at all times. Jake in Seattle.

6) Be Aware Of Your Drinking Habits:

When traveling, it can be easy to let your guard down and drink more than you would normally. However, it is vital to be aware of how alcohol can impair your judgment and make you more susceptible to being taken advantage of. If you are going out for drinks with friends, try to stick with groups and avoid leaving with strangers. Also, always keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended.

Have your own tips for solo travel safety? Let us know in the comments or @modhop on twitter or instagram.

Tagged as: travel safety, foriegn travel, crime.

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Contributing Author

General travel tips and advice on destinations, hotels and flights.

Back to Travel: Keeping the Family Safe

Jake Redman December 13, 2021

Worried about keeping the kids safe while you travel? Let’s take a look at some of the things that you can do for added protection when you’re away from home. […]