Safe Travelling Abroad
Guarding against Crime
The majority of students who decide to travel abroad do so on a shoe-string carrying a backpack. This type of travel can be great fun, provided common sense and a few simple precautions are utilised.
Pre-planning Your Journey
It is essential that you work out which countries you want to visit. Once you have made that decision the hard work really starts. Following our check list should ensure an enjoyable and 'crime free' time.
Passports
You need a current passport to travel in any country. If you need to apply for a passport or to renew your passport, leave plenty of time to get the paperwork done. A passport is an extremely vital and valuable document, which if lost/stolen will be used by others for criminal activity, so extra care needs to be taken to keep it safe.
Visas
Many countries require a visa to enter. Available from the country's Embassy in London. Allow plenty of time, (possibly up to 8 weeks) for completion. Always photostat your passport/visas and keep them in a safe place, together with photostat copies of all credit cards and travellers cheques. Remember that if you have a current criminal record, some countries will not allow you to enter, so check with the Customs and Immigration Department first.
Currency
It is always better to use travellers cheques when abroad, taking a small amount of local cash for immediate use. Credit cards are also good to use as a back up in emergencies, and goods bought with cards are insured, BUT - look after them and report any loss straight away to the Credit Card firm. (Take the telephone number with you.)
Vaccinations/Health
Inoculations against various diseases are essential, depending on the areas to be visited. Check with your doctor who will advise you and give relevant injections/pills.
Visit your doctor and dentist before leaving. A first aid kit is a must. There are lots of pre-packed kits on the market or make up your own. Think about your own health care before you go. Get advice, don't be a victim.
Watch what you eat and drink. Stick to bottled water if you are not sure about the local tap water. Take tablets with you for 'jippy' tummy and other holiday 'nasties'.
Insurance
Medical and baggage insurance is vital. Most travel policies cover for health, accident, third party, baggage, money and cancellation. Shop around and find the policy that is best for you. Read the small print. Remember that some countries charge for any medical treatment received however small.
Baggage/Backpacks
The golden rule for this type of holiday is TRAVEL LIGHT. Choose a sturdy, not too brightly coloured, backpack or holdall. Line it with waterproof material. Security mark all your belongings and take a torch and a shrill alarm. Don't take expensive jewellery. Never wear necklaces/beads which could be grabbed by a potential attacker. Look after number one!!
Accommodation
Check out Hostels/Hotels before leaving and pre-book where possible. Remember that being cheap, the standard of security may be low. Keep your valuables on you, in a money belt or a bum bag and keep your possessions close by at all times.
Your Journey Begins
Plan to travel with a friend/s, company can be advantageous in certain circumstances. Whether travelling alone or with friends personal safety is of paramount importance. ALWAYS be aware of your surroundings and possible crime risks. Stick to main streets in large cities and avoid badly lit side streets. Try to look confident. If catching trains/coaches to a destination travel by day so as not to arrive in a strange place at night. Sit close to the driver or to other passengers and note where the emergency stop bell/button is. You will no doubt meet up with other people along the way, trust your instincts about fellow travellers and if at all unhappy, leave their company politely.
Hitchhiking
MUST NEVER BE UNDERTAKEN IF TRAVELLING ALONE. It can be at times the only way to travel, but again SAY NO if not happy with the situation. Better to be safe than sorry.
Drugs and Alcohol
Available in most countries, but remember that the penalty for possession of illegal drugs or alcohol in some areas is death, or life imprisonment. DO NOT be tempted to try any as you don't know what you are taking. Before checking in for flights repack your luggage to ensure that nothing has been 'planted' on you. Never carry anything through Customs for other people. Beware of the local brew - it will be potent. Always respect the laws and customs of countries you visit. Remember you are a guest in their land.
Contingency Planning
Always keep in regular touch with family and friends at home, telling them your whereabouts and next port of call.
Should you be unfortunate enough to have some of your property stolen or lose passport/travellers cheques etc. report it immediately to the British Embassy or High Commission of the area. They are equipped to deal with such emergencies.
Listen to BBC World radio broadcasts regularly, to keep updated on the current situation in the area where you are staying. Should the area become unstable leave as quickly as possible after checking with the Embassy of the immediate risks.
Conclusion
This information is based on good common sense and pre-planning your trip. There are horror stories heard involving young travellers but they are still relatively rare. By following this advice you should have a wonderful and hasslefree time. BON VOYAGE!!
