Most trips go smoothly, but a little preparation can prevent a stolen wallet, scam or emergency from spoiling your travels. Good travel safety habits aren't about being fearful. They're about being aware, prepared and able to relax because you've planned ahead. These 25 practical tips apply whether you're heading to a busy city, a beach resort or a remote adventure.

Before You Go

1. Research Your Destination

Read your government's official travel advice for your destination. It covers safety, local laws, health risks and entry requirements.

2. Learn Local Laws and Customs

What's legal or acceptable at home might not be abroad. Research dress codes, alcohol rules, photography restrictions and behaviour at religious sites.

3. Register With Your Embassy

Many governments offer registration services for citizens travelling abroad, which help them contact you in an emergency.

4. Get Travel Insurance

Choose a policy with strong medical and repatriation cover. See our travel insurance guide.

5. Make Copies of Documents

Save digital copies of your passport, visas, insurance and bookings in secure cloud storage, and carry a paper copy separately from the originals.

6. Share Your Itinerary

Give a trusted person your itinerary, accommodation details and flight numbers. Check in regularly.

7. Check Health Requirements

Visit a doctor or travel clinic several weeks before travelling to discuss vaccinations and health precautions.

Protecting Your Money and Valuables

8. Carry Only What You Need

Leave unnecessary cards, valuables and expensive jewellery at home or in the hotel safe.

9. Split Your Money

Keep cash and cards in different places, such as a wallet, a money belt and your hotel safe, so a single theft doesn't leave you without funds.

10. Use ATMs Safely

Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres during the day. Cover your PIN and watch for skimming devices.

11. Use Anti-Theft Bags

Crossbody bags with zips, slash-resistant straps and hidden pockets make pickpocketing harder.

Avoiding Pickpockets and Scams

12. Stay Alert in Crowds

Pickpockets target busy places: markets, public transport, tourist attractions and train stations. Keep bags in front of you and zipped.

13. Know Common Scams

Research scams common in your destination. Common examples include:

  • fake petitions or charity collectors,
  • "friendship bracelet" or trinket scams,
  • taxis without meters or "broken" meters,
  • fake police asking to check your wallet,
  • overly friendly strangers offering to guide you to a "special" shop,
  • claims that an attraction is closed so you'll go elsewhere.

14. Be Wary of Distractions

Someone spilling something on you, asking for directions or causing a commotion may be a distraction for a pickpocket accomplice.

15. Use Official Tour Operators

Book tours through reputable companies with good reviews.

Getting Around Safely

16. Use Licensed Taxis or Ride-Hailing Apps

Use official taxi ranks or reputable apps. Check that the car and driver match the app details before getting in.

17. Know Your Route

Download offline maps and check how to reach your accommodation before arriving, especially at night.

18. Be Careful on Scooters and Motorbikes

If you rent one, wear a helmet, check you're licensed to ride it and confirm your insurance covers it.

19. Avoid Walking Alone at Night in Unfamiliar Areas

Ask your accommodation which areas to avoid and how to get around safely after dark.

Accommodation Safety

20. Choose Well-Reviewed Accommodation

Read recent reviews, paying attention to comments about location and security. See our guide on how to choose a hotel.

21. Use the Safe and Lock Doors

Store passports and valuables in the room safe or a locker, and always lock doors and windows.

22. Don't Share Your Room Number

Be discreet when giving your room number at reception or to people you meet.

Digital Travel Safety

23. Use Secure Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi can be insecure. Avoid online banking on public networks, or use a reputable VPN. Read our guide on what a VPN is.

24. Protect Your Phone

Enable a strong lock screen, two-factor authentication and remote tracking. Back up photos regularly. See our tips on protecting your phone from hackers.

Emergencies

25. Know Emergency Numbers

Save local emergency numbers, your embassy's contact details and your insurer's emergency line. Know the location of the nearest hospital.

Travel Safety for Solo Travellers

Solo travellers should take extra care: share itineraries, arrive in daylight, choose social and well-reviewed accommodation and trust their instincts. Read our solo travel tips.

Health and Food Safety

  • Drink bottled or filtered water where tap water isn't safe.
  • Eat freshly cooked, hot food from busy stalls and restaurants.
  • Wash hands often or use hand sanitiser.
  • Use insect repellent in areas with mosquito-borne diseases.
  • Protect yourself from the sun and heat.

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

  • Lost or stolen passport: report it to local police and contact your embassy for an emergency travel document.
  • Stolen cards: call your bank immediately to block them.
  • Medical emergency: call local emergency services and your insurer's helpline.
  • Scammed: report it to local police and your bank, and keep all documentation for insurance.

Final Thoughts

Good travel safety habits let you relax and enjoy your trip with confidence. Research your destination, protect your valuables, stay alert for scams, use trusted transport and accommodation, and have a plan for emergencies. Most importantly, trust your instincts. Explore more practical advice in our travel tips section.