you'll travel safe

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• English Vocabulary

“Safe Travels” Meaning: How & When to Correctly Use It (Plus Alternatives)

Last Updated: September 2, 2024 Fact Checked

• "Safe Travels" Meaning
• "Save Travels" vs. "Safe Travel"

When to Say “Safe Travels”

Other ways to say “safe travels”, travel safety advice.

This article was co-authored by Annaliese Dunne and by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau . Annaliese Dunne is a Middle School English Teacher. With over 10 years of teaching experience, her areas of expertise include writing and grammar instruction, as well as teaching reading comprehension. She is also an experienced freelance writer. She received her Bachelor's degree in English. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.

Are you wondering if “safe travels” is the best way to politely wish someone well on their trip? Or has someone recently said “safe travels” to you, and you’re unsure what they meant? Either way, we can help. “Safe travels” is a common expression conveying the hope that someone will have a safe, secure, and enjoyable journey. Read on for a complete overview of what “safe travels” means, when to use it, and alternative phrases you can use in its place!]

Safe Travels: Quick Definition

“Safe travels” wishes someone a safe journey and good luck on their trip. While “safe travels” and “safe travel” are both correct, “safe travels” is much more common and usually used when someone is going on an extended trip with multiple destinations or travels.

What does “Safe travels” mean?

• “Safe travels” is a truncated way of saying, “I wish you safe travels” (or a similar phrase). It doesn't depend on a specific type of travel (airplane, car, train, and so on), just the length of the trip.
• Though its exact roots are unclear, “safe travels” also has a historical context since travel used to come with many more risks.
• Although travel has become significantly safer over the years, the practice of wishing someone well on their journey has remained—which is why “safe travels” is such a popular saying!

Is “Safe travels” or “Safe travel” correct?

• “Safe travels” uses the countable form of the noun, while “safe travel” uses its uncountable form.
• “Safe travels” is much more popular and the version you’re more likely to hear. “Safe travel,” while correct, is rarely used.
• Instead of “safe travel,” you may hear an alternate phrase like “travel safe.”

• On the other hand, “safe travels” isn’t usually used for short, routine trips.
• For example, you wouldn’t say “safe travels” to someone commuting to work or running a few errands. Phrases like “drive safely” or “have a good ride” work better for those situations.

• Travel safely. This phrase is very similar to “safe travels,” as both wish someone safety on their journey.
• Have a safe trip. Like the phrase above, this is nearly identical to “safe travels” in terms of its meaning.
• Have a safe journey. This phrase has the same meaning as “Have a safe trip” and “Travel safely.”
• Have a great trip. This phrase leans away from the safety angle and instead focuses on wishing someone a positive experience on their trip.
• Enjoy your vacation! This phrase applies specifically to someone going on a vacation (for leisure rather than any other reason).
• Drive safe. This is a phrase you might use for a road trip or shorter journey that specifically includes driving.
• Have a safe flight. This phrase is specific to someone traveling by airplane, wishing them a safe trip to their destination.
• Bon voyage! This is French for “have a good trip,” but it’s become a popular expression for many English-speaking people, too.

• For example, give at least one other person who isn’t traveling with you a copy of your itinerary. That way, they can keep track of you and even do a little research on your destination too.

• You could invest in a portable door stopper —a tool that slips under the door to prevent it from being opened.
• If a friend or loved one is going to be traveling, you could also recommend they get one (to ensure “safe travels.”)

• It may also be a good idea to give a friend or family member a copy of your documents, too. That way, they can send the copies to you (or a local embassy) if anything happens.

• Try packing a safety bag with items such as a door stopper, first aid kit , sunscreen, and other essentials specific to your trip.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://linguaholic.com/linguablog/safe-travels/
• ↑ https://rainn.org/articles/safety-tips-traveling
• ↑ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/about-our-new-products/Best-Practices-for-Traveler-Safety.html
• ↑ https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/survival-guide

About This Article

• Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

The Correct Usage of Safe Travels and Safe Travel To You: A Guide to You Journey

Zackary Hooper

Are you puzzled by correctly using well-wishing phrases such as “ safe travel s ” and “safe travel to you”? If so, you’re not alone. As a seasoned traveler myself, I’ve often wondered about the proper etiquette and usage of these expressions, which led me to delve deep into understanding their origins and appropriate contexts.

Table of Contents

This blog aims to guide you through these travel phrase dilemmas while maintaining respect for cultural differences. Hang tight; an enlightening journey awaits!

Key Takeaways

• “Safe travels” and “safe travel” are both acceptable phrases to wish someone a safe journey.
• “Safe travels” is more commonly used when wishing multiple individuals or groups well on their journeys.
• “Safe travel” is used when addressing an individual specifically or referring to travel as a concept rather than specific instances.
• It’s important to be sincere and genuine in your well-wishes, showing care and concern for the person’s safety and enjoyment during their journey.

Understanding the Meaning and Usage of “Safe Travels” and “Safe Travel”

When we wish someone a safe journey, it is important to use the appropriate expression – “safe travels” or “safe travel” – depending on the context.

The significance of well-wishing on journeys

Well-wishing on journeys holds a deep-rooted significance that extends far beyond surface-level politeness. It acts as a verbal token of care and concern , often strengthening bonds between individuals .

Wishing someone “Safe travels” or “Have a safe flight” communicates your desires for their well-being during travel, underlining the shared human experience of venturing into the unknown.

In many cultures around the world, expressions of good fortune for journeys carry symbolic weight and are considered important customs to observe . These wishes also provide comfort and reassurance to travelers setting out on big adventures or navigating unfamiliar paths.

Hence, they serve as an emotional compass guiding us through our collective journey – embodying empathy in its purest form.

Exploring the difference between “safe travels” and “safe travel”

“Safe travels” and “safe travel” are two phrases commonly used to wish someone a safe journey. While they both convey the same meaning and intent, there is a slight difference in their usage .

The phrase “safe travels” is more commonly used , especially when wishing well to multiple individuals or groups. It is often used as a general expression of good wishes for anyone embarking on a journey, whether it’s by land, sea, or air.

On the other hand, “safe travel” is less common but still acceptable . It tends to be used when addressing an individual specifically or when referring to travel as a concept rather than specific instances.

Common Ways to Wish Someone a Safe Journey

Some numerous alternative phrases and expressions can be used to wish someone a safe journey.

Alternative phrases and expressions for well-wishing

When wishing someone a safe journey, you can use several alternative phrases and expressions. Here are some options to consider:

• Bon voyage !
• Have a great trip !
• Arrive safe and sound !
• Wishing you a smooth journey !
• Enjoy your vacation!
• Take lots of pictures!
• Travel safely !
• Have an amazing adventure!
• Best wishes for your travels !
• May your journey be filled with joy!

Proper etiquette for wishing well on travels

When wishing someone well on their travels, it is important to follow proper etiquette . One should always be sincere and genuine in their wishes, showing that they care about the person’s safety and enjoyment during their journey.

Using phrases like “safe travels” or “have a safe trip” are commonly accepted and appreciated. It is also nice to offer additional blessings or well-wishes such as “wishing you a safe journey” or “enjoy your holiday.” Remember to be respectful of cultural differences and norms when expressing these wishes, as some people may have different customs or superstitions associated with travel.

Travel etiquette is all about spreading positive vibes and goodwill for safe journeys without causing any offense.

Examples of Correct Usage of “Safe Travels” and “Safe Travel”

– “I always say ‘safe travels’ to my friends when they embark on a trip abroad.”

– “When my sister went on a hiking expedition, I wished her ‘safe travel’ since it was a singular journey.”

– “Before boarding the plane, the flight attendant announced, ‘Have a safe flight,’ ensuring everyone’s well-being during their travels.”

– “As an avid traveler, I often use phrases like ‘wishing you a safe journey’ or ‘arrive safe and sound’ to convey my good wishes for others.”

Sentences and scenarios demonstrating the appropriate usage

I often find myself using the phrases “ safe travel s ” and “safe travel” interchangeably, but there are actually subtle differences in their usage. Here are some examples to help you understand when it’s appropriate to use each phrase:

• As my friend embarked on her journey, I wished her safe travels.
• It’s common to use “safe travels” when someone is going on a trip involving multiple destinations or modes of transportation .
• When my brother set off on his solo road trip, I wished him safe travel.
• “Safe travel” is typically used when referring to a single journey or specific mode of transportation .
• Before my parents boarded their flight, I said, “Have a safe flight!”
• Saying “have a safe flight” is another common way to wish someone well on their journey by plane .
• As my colleague headed out for her vacation, I offered the traditional phrase : “Bon voyage!”
• “Bon voyage” is an alternative expression that conveys well – wishes for a safe and enjoyable journey.
• When bidding farewell to a friend going on holiday, I said, “Wishing you a safe journey! Enjoy your time away.”
• Combining the wish for a safe journey with an expression of enjoyment can create a more personalized and heartfelt message.

Tips for using the phrases effectively in various contexts

Here are some tips for using the phrases “Safe Travels” and “Safe Travel” effectively in different situations:

• Use “Safe Travels” when wishing someone well on a long journey or multiple trips.
• Use “Safe Travel” when wishing someone a safe single trip or a specific part of their journey.
• Consider the context and duration of the trip before deciding which phrase to use.
• Be mindful of the person’s mode of transportation – for air travel, saying “Safe Flight” is also common and appropriate.
• Customize your well – wishes by adding specific details to make them more personal and meaningful.
• Stay positive and genuine in your delivery – sincerity goes a long way in conveying your good intentions.
• Consider cultural norms and customs when expressing well-wishes – certain phrases may be more common or preferred in different regions or communities.

Addressing the Rudeness Concern: Is it Rude to Say “Have a Safe Flight”?

Is it rude to say “Have a safe flight”?

Discussing social norms and cultural differences

Social norms and cultural differences play a significant role in how we communicate our well-wishes for safe travels. In some cultures, people may find it more appropriate to say “Have a safe journey” or “Wishing you a safe trip” rather than using the phrase “Safe Travels.” It’s important to be mindful of these cultural nuances and adapt our expressions accordingly when interacting with people from different backgrounds.

Additionally, social norms can vary when it comes to expressing well-wishes for specific modes of travel such as flights . While saying “Have a safe flight” is widely accepted in many countries, there are places where this phrase might not be commonly used or even considered rude.

Understanding these social norms helps us navigate diverse situations and ensure that our intentions are positively received across cultures.

Understanding the intention behind the phrase and its impact

When we wish someone a safe journey, it’s important to understand the intention behind our words and the impact they can have. By expressing our well-wishes, we are showing care and concern for the person embarking on their travels.

We want them to have a positive experience and return safely. Our words can provide reassurance and comfort , making them feel supported as they set off on their adventure. So next time you wish someone safe travels or safe travel, remember the power of your words and how they can bring positivity into someone’s journey .

Conclusion: Spreading Positive Vibes and Well-Wishes for Safe Journeys

In conclusion, it is important to spread positive vibes and well-wishes for safe journeys. By correctly using phrases like “safe travels” and “safe travel,” we can show our care and concern for others as they embark on their trips.

Remembering proper etiquette and using appropriate expressions will make our wishes meaningful and heartfelt. So let’s continue to wish everyone a safe journey filled with adventure, good fortune, and happy memories!

FAQs on Safe Travel To You

1. should i say “safe travels” or “safe travel” when wishing someone well on a journey.

Both “safe travels” and “safe travel” are grammatically correct and commonly used expressions to wish someone well on their journey.

2. Can I use “safe travels” for multiple people?

Yes, you can use “safe travels” to wish multiple people well on their journeys.

3. Is there any difference in meaning between “safe travels” and “safe travel”?

There is no significant difference in meaning between the two phrases; they both convey the same sentiment of wishing someone a safe journey.

4. Are there any other alternative phrases to wish someone a safe journey?

Yes, other alternatives include phrases like “have a safe trip,” “travel safely,” or simply saying “stay safe.”

About the author

I’ve been fortunate to visit over fifty countries, each journey leaving a unique footprint on my life’s map. From bustling cities to serene nature trails, I’ve immersed myself in different cultures and experiences, constantly broadening my understanding of the world. On this site, I share my travel stories, tips, and insights, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own journeys. Join me as we uncover the beauty of our planet, one adventure at a time. Please reach out here if you need to get in touch.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest posts

Practical Gift Ideas for Long-Term Travelers

Finding the right gift for a long-term traveler can be quite a challenge. Believe me, I’ve been there – whether it’s for a digital nomad friend or a student studying abroad, you want to offer something practical yet enjoyable. This is why I’ve compiled these 18+ thoughtful and handy travel-related items that they’re sure to…

Understanding the Meaning and Usage of ‘Are You Travelling’ in English

Have you ever been unsure about the context or appropriate response when someone asks, “Are you travelling”? You’re not alone. Many of us, including myself, have found ourselves puzzled by this seemingly straightforward question in English. This article is a product of tireless research and aims to demystify its meaning and usage. We’ll journey through…

The Countries with the Highest Travel Rates: Who Travels the Most?

Ever found yourself itching for an adventure, wondering which nations are on the move most often? I’ve been bitten by that same travel bug and always wondered who the globe-trotters really are. Diving deep into studies and statistics, I’ve uncovered fascinating facts about the countries with the highest travel rates – like how Finnish people…

16 Other Ways to Say “Safe Travels”

When we say goodbye to someone going on a trip, we often wish them “safe travels.” But sometimes, we want to find a different way to say it.

This article gives you 16 other phrases to wish someone well on their journey. Each one is explained with details on how and when to use it, making your farewell message feel just right.

Is It Correct to Say “Safe Travels”?

The phrase “safe travels” is correct to use and carries a warm, friendly tone. It’s often seen as informal and polite , making it perfect for casual conversations or personal messages. While not typically used in highly professional settings , it’s a common expression to wish someone well on their journey.

Due to its informal nature, “safe travels” is best used with types of recipients like friends, family members, or colleagues with whom you have a fairly relaxed relationship. It’s most appropriate for communication through informal channels like emails, text messages, or direct conversations.

Email example:

Now, let’s consider the pros and cons of using this phrase.

• Conveys friendliness and shows care.
• Suitable for a wide range of informal situations.
• Easy to use with no need for elaborate explanation.
• May not be appropriate for very formal or strictly professional communications.
• Could be perceived as overly casual in certain contexts.

While “safe travels” is widely accepted and understood, someone might want to use an alternative phrase to match the level of formality of their message or relationship with the recipient.

16 Other Ways to Say “Safe Travels”

Looking for different ways to wish someone well on their journey? Here are 16 alternatives to “safe travels” that might fit your message perfectly:

• Have a safe trip
• Travel safely
• Have a good trip
• Have a safe journey
• Safe journey
• Wishing you a safe trip
• Have a pleasant trip
• Best wishes on your travels
• Wishing you a safe and enjoyable journey
• Have a smooth journey
• Safe and pleasant travel
• Take care on your trip
• Enjoy your travels
• May your journey be smooth

1. Have a safe trip

This alternative is very close to the original phrase but adds specificity by mentioning the trip . It’s perceived as friendly and informal , making it ideal for casual conversations. Compared to “safe travels,” this phrase might suggest a singular journey rather than multiple travels.

Have a safe trip” is best used when speaking to friends or family members about a specific trip they are about to embark on. It’s suitable for emails, text messages, or in-person conversations.

2. Travel safely

This synonym for “safe travels” places emphasis on the action of traveling safely. It comes across as both polite and informal , making it perfect for a broad range of situations. It does not specify the mode of transportation or the destination, making it universally applicable.

“Travel safely” can be utilized among friends, family, or even colleagues, provided the context does not demand high formality. It is versatile and fits well in emails, social media messages, or text messages.

Email sample:

3. Have a good trip

While still informal , “Have a good trip” shifts the focus from safety to the overall experience of the trip. It’s a warm, considerate way to express good wishes. This phrase can be used interchangeably with the original but might be slightly more casual.

This expression is suited for casual interactions with friends, family, or colleagues about to go on a trip. Suitable for use in emails, social media, or text messages, especially when you want to sound warm and caring.

4. Have a safe journey

“Have a safe journey” is very similar to “Have a safe trip” but the word “journey” can make it sound a bit more formal. It’s a friendly, caring way to wish someone well. This option is as easy to use as the original, but it might be seen as a bit more formal because of the word choice.

This phrase works well when speaking to someone you know well or to acquaintances in both personal and semi-formal contexts. It’s a good fit for emails, cards, or face-to-face conversations.

5. Safe journey

“Safe journey” is a shorter version of the previous alternative. Dropping the “Have a” makes it sound a bit more casual and direct. This form is quite informal and straightforward, ideal for when you’re in a rush but still want to send good vibes to someone embarking on a trip.

Great for text messages, quick emails, or even shouted across a room as someone is leaving. It’s perfect for friends, family members, and colleagues you share a good rapport with.

6. Wishing you a safe trip

This phrase is a bit more formal and elaborated, adding a touch of personal warmth and care. By explicitly saying “wishing you,” it makes the sentiment feel more deliberate and heartfelt. This choice is a tad more formal than simply saying “safe travels.”

Suitable for use in both personal and professional contexts, especially when you want to convey genuine well-wishes. It works well in emails, letters, or cards.

7. Have a pleasant trip

This alternative focuses on the quality of the trip, hoping that it’s not just safe, but also enjoyable. The use of “pleasant” makes it sound friendly and cordial. While similar to “Have a safe trip,” it adds a wish for the traveler’s overall happiness during their journey.

It’s great for when you’re talking to friends, family, or colleagues in a light-hearted manner. Suitable for texts, emails, or spoken conversation.

8. Best wishes on your travels

This phrase offers a warm, heartfelt send-off and goes beyond just wishing safety. It’s a bit more formal and comprehensive, covering not only the aspect of safety but also the general good fortune and experiences one might have while traveling. It’s ideal for when you want to convey a sense of care and consideration.

Best suited for longer trips or when sending someone off on a significant journey. It works well in written forms like letters, cards, or emails to friends, family, or colleagues you have a close relationship with.

Here’s an example:

9. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable journey

This alternative is both formal and thorough, incorporating wishes for safety and enjoyment. It’s a phrase that conveys a deep level of thoughtfulness, showing that you care not only about the person’s safety but also about the quality of their experience.

This phrase is suitable for close friends, family, and colleagues, especially for significant journeys. Ideal for more thoughtful messages, be it through email, card, or a face-to-face farewell.

10. Have a smooth journey

When you say “Have a smooth journey,” you’re focusing on the ease and comfort of travel, hoping that the person encounters no difficulties. It’s a bit more informal but still very caring. This makes it perfect for when you know someone might be anxious about their trip.

Great for use among friends, family members, or colleagues you’re close with. This phrase fits well in texts, emails, or verbal goodbyes, especially if the journey might involve multiple modes of transport or complex travel plans.

11. Safe and pleasant travel

This version combines wishes for both safety and enjoyment, making it a considerate and polite way to bid someone goodbye. It’s slightly more formal than just wishing “safe travels,” and can easily be used in both personal and professional contexts.

Because it encompasses both safety and pleasure, it’s great for sending off someone close to you or a colleague with whom you have a friendly relationship. Fits nicely into emails, letters, or as part of a farewell speech.

12. Take care on your trip

“Take care on your trip” is a more informal , direct way to express your concern and well-wishes. It implies a personal touch and shows that you care about the person’s well-being while they are traveling. This phrase is less about the journey’s physical aspects and more about personal safety and care.

Perfect for close friends, family members, and colleagues, especially if you know they’re undertaking a journey where they might need to be reminded to look after themselves. Good for texts, quick calls, or emails.

13. Enjoy your travels

This phrase brings a light and cheerful sentiment to your farewell, focusing more on the joy and excitement of traveling. It is informal and suggests a genuine desire for the traveler to have a great time. It’s perfect when you know someone is going on a trip for pleasure.

Use “Enjoy your travels” when talking to friends, family, or colleagues who are about to depart on a holiday or an adventure. It’s ideal for emails, social media posts, or in casual conversation to express your excitement for their upcoming trip.

14. Bon voyage

“Bon voyage” is a French term meaning “have a good trip.” It brings a touch of sophistication and is often used when someone is going on a significant trip. This phrase is informal yet can feel a bit more special or fancy because of its French origin.

It’s suited for close relationships and when you want to add a touch of elegance to your farewell. “Bon voyage” works well in spoken goodbyes, written messages, or social media posts, especially for those who appreciate a bit of flair.

15. Godspeed

“Godspeed” is an old-fashioned way to wish someone well, implying a prayer for God to make someone’s journey quick and safe. It’s more formal and carries a deeper sense of care and protection. While not commonly used in everyday conversation, it adds a poignant touch when used correctly.

This phrase is well-suited for someone going on a potentially perilous journey or when you want to convey a very strong desire for someone’s safe return. It’s often used in written messages, during significant farewells, or in religious contexts.

16. May your journey be smooth

This phrase wishes the traveler an easy, trouble-free experience, emphasizing the smoothness of the journey ahead. It is slightly formal but remains friendly and caring. It’s a thoughtful alternative to wishing someone “safe travels,” especially when you know they might be nervous about their trip.

Great for anyone you care about, including friends, family, and colleagues, particularly for trips that might have been stressful to plan or are full of uncertainty. Appropriate for use in emails, letters, or heartfelt conversations.

Final Thoughts

Saying goodbye to someone who is traveling doesn’t have to be routine. With these 16 alternatives to “safe travels,” you can match your farewell to the mood, your relationship with the traveler, and the nature of their journey. Whether you choose a formal expression like “Godspeed” or a more casual “Enjoy your travels,” your words can add a personal touch to your farewell.

CMO of Rontar. I’m interested in entrepreneurship, sales and marketing. As part of my day-to-day routine I do everything from creating marketing strategy to starting advertising campaigns. Sometimes I write for our marketing blog. When not at work, I do sports, lead a healthy lifestyle and keep up on everything that is connected with this.

Similar Posts

10 Professional Synonyms for “Are You Okay?”

10 Professional Ways to Say “I Forwarded the Email” (With Samples)

10 Other Ways to Say “What Time Suits You Best?”

11 Alternatives to “Please Let Me Know if You Have Any Questions”

10 Synonyms for “Thank You for Your Understanding” in an Email

9 Professional Synonyms for “I Hope” in an Email

• COVID-19 travel advice

Lower your risk of COVID-19 as you travel for a safe and fun adventure.

Successful travel starts with being prepared for the unexpected. Coronavirus disease 2019, known as COVID-19, is now a part of standard travel planning.

As you choose a destination, travel group or event, add COVID-19 to the list of things to research. When packing for yourself or anyone you're caring for on the trip, consider COVID-19 prevention and testing.

No one wants to plan for the worst. But having a plan in case you catch the COVID-19 virus while traveling can save time if you need medical care.

To start, it can help to ask these basic questions as you make plans.

Am I up to date with my COVID-19 vaccine?

Staying up to date on your COVID-19 vaccine helps prevent serious illness, the need for hospital care and death due to COVID-19 .

If you need a vaccine, plan to get it at least a few weeks before you travel. Protection from the vaccine isn't immediate.

Am I, a travel companion or a person I live with at high risk of serious COVID-19 illness?

Many people with COVID-19 have no symptoms or mild illness. But for older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions, COVID-19 can lead to the need for care in the hospital or death.

If you or those around you are at high risk of serious COVID-19 illness, take extra safety measures during or after travel.

Ask a healthcare professional if there are any specific actions you should take.

Does my destination, tour group or event need proof that I had a COVID-19 vaccine? Do I need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test?

The country you travel to may not need to know your COVID-19 status. But you might need the information for other reasons.

Events, venues or tour groups might require proof that you are COVID-19 negative or are up to date on a COVID-19 vaccine. Check before you go so you have all the paperwork you need.

What's the plan if I get COVID-19 on my trip?

No one wants to get sick while traveling. But in case you do, it helps to know where you can get medical care and whether you'll be able to stay apart from others while you have symptoms.

Put together a COVID-19 kit with rapid home tests, masks, a thermometer, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Before you leave, gather health information from your healthcare professional. Make sure it gives the details on any health conditions you're managing and medicine you take.

COVID-19 spread during travel

The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person. When the virus is spreading, spending time indoors with a crowd of people raises your risk of catching it. The risk is higher if the indoor space has poor airflow.

The coronavirus is carried by a person's breath.

The virus spreads when a person with COVID-19 breathes, coughs, sneezes, sings or talks. The droplets or particles the infected person breathes out could possibly be breathed in by other people if they are close together or in areas with low airflow.

The virus carried by a person's breath can land directly on the face of a nearby person, after a sneeze or cough, for example. And people may touch a surface that has respiratory droplets and then touch their faces with hands that have the coronavirus on them.

Clean hands

While you travel, one way to lower your risk of COVID-19 is to clean your hands often.

Wash your hands after using the bathroom, before making food or eating, and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If you touch something that others regularly touch, such as an elevator button or a handrail, make sure to clean your hands afterward.

Also, try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Wearing a face mask is another way to lower your risk of COVID-19 .

Travel brings people together from areas where viruses may be spreading at higher levels. Masks can help slow the spread of respiratory viruses in general, including the COVID-19 virus.

Masks help the most in places with low airflow and where you are in close contact with other people. Also, masks can help if viruses are spreading at high levels in the places you travel to or through.

Masking is especially important if you or a companion have a high risk of serious COVID-19 illness. Choose the most protective mask that fits well and is comfortable.

Get the COVID-19 vaccine

As the virus that causes COVID-19 changes, COVID-19 vaccines are updated, so stay up to date with the recommended shots.

Know when the COVID-19 virus is spreading in your area

Check with health agencies in the area to see where the COVID-19 virus is spreading. Information about the spread of the virus may include the number of people in the hospital with COVID-19 or the number of people who test positive for the disease.

Keep some space around you

Choose outdoor activities and keep some distance between yourself and others. Poor airflow plus lots of people crowded together equals a higher chance you'll come in contact with the virus that causes COVID-19 .

If you can, try to avoid spending time with people who have COVID-19 symptoms or who are sick.

There will likely be times during travel when you don't have a choice about how close you are to others. Here are some tips for air travel, public transportation and lodging.

The risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from air travel is thought to be low.

Air in the plane's cabin changes over quickly during the flight, being replaced every few minutes in some planes. Airplane air also is often filtered. So germs, including viruses, are trapped before they spread.

The air flowing down from vents above the seats in each row may help keep germs from spreading. Seats also may act as a barrier to germ spread on a plane, unless the person who is ill is sitting close to you.

You can help lower your risk by spreading out to keep distance between you and others when you can and cleaning your hands regularly.

Wearing a mask in crowded areas, such as security lines and bathrooms, can help protect you from COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

Trains, buses and cars

Trains and buses may have good airflow and air filtering. But check before you travel so you know what to expect. When a vehicle is crowded, wear a face mask and take other steps, such as cleaning your hands.

Taxis and private cars used for ride-sharing may not have air filtering. But in most cases, rolling down a window could be an option to improve airflow.

Rental car companies may post their cleaning policies on the internet, or you can ask directly when you book the vehicle.

Hotels and other lodging

Cleaning protocols at hotels, vacation rentals and other lodging have largely returned to the way they were before the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have questions about how hosts or businesses protect guests, contact them directly. In public areas of hotels, take steps to lower your risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 .

Put safety first

Despite your planning, an illness may delay or cancel your trip. Stay home if you or anyone you're traveling with has:

• Symptoms of COVID-19 , such as fever or new loss of taste or smell.
• Taken a COVID-19 test and is waiting for results.
• Been diagnosed with COVID-19 .

Keep watch for serious symptoms of COVID-19 , such as trouble breathing or chest pain. If you or a person you're taking care of has symptoms that worry you, get help.

Once the fever is gone and symptoms are getting better, you may choose to travel. But for about five days after feeling better, you could still give others the virus that causes COVID-19 . Take extra actions to protect the people around you.

• Wear a mask.
• Keep your distance from others, especially when indoors.
• Clean your hands regularly.
• Keep the air flowing by turning on fans or opening windows when you can.

If you start to feel worse or your fever comes back, avoid being around others again until you feel better.

Stay flexible

With COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and treatment, events and travel are back to typical levels in many places. But as waves of COVID-19 outbreaks happen, it's important to stay flexible with your plans. Knowing whether the COVID-19 virus is spreading in your area or in places where you're traveling can help you make decisions about whether to go and what to put on your agenda.

• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Understanding how COVID-19 vaccines work. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/how-they-work.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• People with certain medical conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Travel advice for the general public. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-advice-for-the-general-public. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/infections-diseases/covid-19. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obtaining health care abroad. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/health-care-abroad/health-care-abroad. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Goldman L, et al., eds. COVID-19: Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, community prevention, and prognosis. In: Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Elsevier; 2024. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 16, 202.
• Taking steps for cleaner air for respiratory virus prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/air-quality.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How COVID-19 spreads. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• COVID-19 overview and infection prevention and control priorities in non-U.S. healthcare settings. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/non-us-settings/overview/index.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Hygiene and respiratory viruses prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/hygiene.html. Accessed May 14, 2024.
• About handwashing. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Masking during travel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/masks. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Masks and respiratory virus prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/masks.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How to protect yourself and others. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• About physical distancing and respiratory viruses. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/physical-distancing.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How can ventilation reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 on airplanes? World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-advice-for-the-general-public. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Bielecki M, et al. Air travel and COVID-19 prevention in the pandemic and peri-pandemic period: A narrative review. Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease. 2021; doi:10.1016/j.tmaid.2020.101915.
• Symptoms of COVID-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Preventing spread of respiratory viruses when you're sick. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/precautions-when-sick.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.

Products and Services

• A Book: Endemic - A Post-Pandemic Playbook
• Begin Exploring Women's Health Solutions at Mayo Clinic Store
• A Book: Future Care
• Antibiotics: Are you misusing them?
• COVID-19 and vitamin D
• Convalescent plasma therapy
• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
• COVID-19: How can I protect myself?
• Herd immunity and respiratory illness
• COVID-19 and pets
• COVID-19 and your mental health
• COVID-19 antibody testing
• COVID-19, cold, allergies and the flu
• COVID-19 tests
• COVID-19 drugs: Are there any that work?
• COVID-19 in babies and children
• Coronavirus infection by race
• COVID-19 vaccine: Should I reschedule my mammogram?
• COVID-19 vaccines for kids: What you need to know
• COVID-19 vaccines
• COVID-19 variant
• COVID-19 vs. flu: Similarities and differences
• COVID-19: Who's at higher risk of serious symptoms?
• Debunking coronavirus myths
• Different COVID-19 vaccines
• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
• Fever: First aid
• Fever treatment: Quick guide to treating a fever
• Fight coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission at home
• Honey: An effective cough remedy?
• How do COVID-19 antibody tests differ from diagnostic tests?
• How to measure your respiratory rate
• How to take your pulse
• How to take your temperature
• How well do face masks protect against COVID-19?
• Is hydroxychloroquine a treatment for COVID-19?
• Long-term effects of COVID-19
• Loss of smell
• Mayo Clinic Minute: You're washing your hands all wrong
• Mayo Clinic Minute: How dirty are common surfaces?
• Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pregnancy and COVID-19
• Safe outdoor activities during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Safety tips for attending school during COVID-19
• Sex and COVID-19
• Shortness of breath
• Thermometers: Understand the options
• Treating COVID-19 at home
• Unusual symptoms of coronavirus
• Vaccine guidance from Mayo Clinic
• Watery eyes

Related Information

• Coronavirus: What is it and how can I protect myself?
• COVID-19 vaccines: Get the facts
• COVID-19 , cold, allergies and the flu: What are the differences?

5X Challenge

Thanks to generous benefactors, your gift today can have 5X the impact to advance AI innovation at Mayo Clinic.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

9 Ways To Travel More Safely

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Whether you're traveling within the U.S. or to a foreign country, you should take extra precautions to stay safe. Distractions born of travel — such as taking in the sights, eating delectable food and exploring new cities — can increase your risk.

But it doesn't have to be this way.

These international and domestic travel safety tips will help you reduce your risk so you can enjoy your vacation and avoid trouble as much as feasible. Here's how to travel safely — ranging from actions that can be implemented on the fly and ones that require a bit more preparation.

1. Digitize important documents

Your wallet or purse is filled with important documents that criminals can exploit. Leave unnecessary items at home (like your Social Security card) and make copies of everything else you would need in an emergency, like prescriptions, a backup credit card (so you can at least make a digital purchase in a pinch) and your passport.

Take a picture and upload them to a secure folder on the web. This way, if anything is stolen, you can easily take steps to reduce the damage that criminals can cause. You can easily call the bank to cancel debit and credit cards and request a new ID from the embassy. You can also use a secure digital vault system like 1Password or LastPass to store these documents.

2. Minimize how much cash you carry

It is important to have a little cash when traveling, but most retailers accept credit cards, even abroad. Not having cash minimizes your wallet's value to a thief, and you can dispute unknown charges from a card. Just make sure to carry a card that has no foreign transaction fees when traveling internationally.

3. Look less like a tourist

The more you dress and act like a local, the less risk there is from criminals targeting you as a tourist. Adapting your style to that of the locals, walking with confidence and keeping maps hidden can help you blend in. When using directions on your phone, only look at it briefly while walking.

Further, familiarize yourself with the city and your route before leaving the hotel. If you do need to look up directions for an extended period of time, consider stepping into a store or cafe to do so, rather than staying outside.

4. Share your itinerary with someone you trust

Whether you're traveling alone or with others, share your itinerary with someone you trust back home. Check in once a day to let them know that you've made it to your next destination or back to your hotel. These small steps increase your safety during travel.

It's also wise to create and share a safe word so that family or friends would know if you're in trouble, even if the conversation seems normal to someone else who may be listening. You can take this a step further and consider sharing your live location with a trusted friend or family member via your smartphone.

5. Research travel advisories for destinations

According to the U.S. Department of State, "conditions can change rapidly in a country at any time." Its website keeps a continuous list of travel advisories in destinations around the world. While these advisories don't always mean that you shouldn't travel, they do help make you aware of the potential conditions you'll find when you arrive, or areas to avoid.

Check the State Department website before making travel plans, and again before you depart. Somewhere that may have been safe when you booked your trip may have deteriorated since then.

6. Sign up for Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , or STEP, is a free service from the State Department that allows citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates. The information that you provide also makes it easier for the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.

7. Notify credit card companies of your travel plans

Because you may be traveling to cities outside your normal spending patterns, let your bank know your dates and destinations of travel. Many banks allow you to notify them via your online banking portal.

This will minimize the potential of the bank locking your account due to perceived fraudulent transactions, which could leave you stranded.

Additionally, consider bringing a backup credit card.

8. Be careful with public Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi can open your devices and sensitive information to hackers. Using a VPN service is one of the best ways we know of to stay safe in an airport, when exploring your destination or at your hotel. VPN services create a secure connection to protect your personal information when browsing the internet or using web-connected apps on an open connection.

Security.org , a security product review site, conducted a study in June 2020 and found that just 31% of U.S. internet users use a VPN service for public Wi-Fi connections. That means almost 70% of public Wi-Fi users are at risk of being hacked.

9. Get travel insurance

To improve both your physical and financial safety, consider purchasing a travel insurance policy ahead of your trip. This safety net is helpful in avoiding out-of-pocket expenses for emergency medical treatment, trip delays, cancellations or interruptions, lost luggage or evacuations.

Most policies will reimburse travelers for unused accommodations, transit or activities that were nonrefundable but had to be canceled for a covered reason. Similarly, if your luggage is lost by an airline or train company, you’ll likely get reimbursed through the baggage protection on your policy. Plus, if your policy has emergency medical coverage, you won’t be hit with a huge bill for medical attention overseas (where your U.S.-based health insurance is likely not useful).

Some credit cards come with built-in protections, whereas others don’t — in the case of the latter, you will need to purchase a stand-alone policy .

If finding ways to travel safely is your goal …

Now that we've shared some tips on how to travel safely, you can travel with more confidence and less risk. Though implementing most of these tips has little or no cost, they may take time to set up. Investing the time to increase your travel safety will be well worth it if you can avoid dangerous situations that can interrupt or ruin your next trip.

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options

75,000 Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

125 Good Travels and Have a Safe Trip Messages [w/ Quotes]

Here is a look at some of the best ways to wish someone a fun and safe trip for various situations, whether a family member, a best friend, or an acquaintance.

#1 You are about to join the ranks of worldly explorers. As you voyage to new lands in search of adventure, I hope you find it to be all you dreamed of and more. May your sailing be as smooth as your stay is exciting. I hope you have an unforgettable time. I will be here, awaiting your return. Have a safe flight and a pleasant journey.

#2 Take every new breath deeply and enjoy the places you visit. Find new food, new music, new friends, and see life through new eyes. Fill your heart with new joy, and try different things. You may just find something you love around every corner. Happy travels!

#3 Whether you’ll be swimming through rivers or climbing over mountains, I wish you a safe journey and lots of sweet memories. So dive in, take your time, appreciate the moments, and return safely when it’s time. Have a wonderful trip and happy trails!

#4 Traveling the globe allows us to see and experience a great many things. I hope that your eyes drink in all the scenery, that your ears soak in every language, and that your heart fills up with each step you take on foreign soil. Safe travels on your trip.

#5 I hope your trip is as safe as a padded panic room. I wish you nothing but good food, great company, and warm days. I look forward to enjoying the photos and stories you bring back with you. And if there are gifts included, even better! Unless it is a postcard – you can leave that behind. Have a wonderful trip.

#6 Regardless of where your trip is taking you, be sure to embrace the journey. Whether you are far or near, there are plenty of good things to see. With every winding road comes a new opportunity to explore and uncover more joy. So open your mind to all the possibilities of each adventure and have a safe trip back home!

#7 Smooth travels to you. I know you will be back, but while you are gone, living the good life, I will be here missing you. Be safe and make it count. As glad as I am that you are getting this incredible opportunity, I hope you will not make a habit of it!

#8 There is no place like home. But it is only by leaving that we appreciate how true this is. I hope you have a splendid trip, with no shortage of laughter and fun. When you return, I hope the memories you have made will be enough to last a lifetime. Mostly, I wish you safe travels and a very good time along the way.

#9 I hope you have a wonderful visit with welcoming people and sunny skies. And even though it will not be as awesome without me, I hope you have fun all the same. But next time, please take me with you! For now, a souvenir will buy my forgiveness. (Better make it a good one.) Have a safe trip back!

#10 Have fun on your trip! If it is anything like we have seen in the movies, you are about to discover a whole new side to yourself. There is nothing quite like stepping out of your comfort zone and pushing yourself to do new things. Do not underestimate how courageous you are. I wish you a safe and enjoyable journey.

#11 Hey globetrotter! I hope you have a good trip. I will miss seeing your face around town, but I look forward to countless photographs when you get back. I hope your trip there is short, smooth, and hassle-free. May you have as much rest as you do fun. I am so happy that you have this incredible opportunity to travel.

#12 You are going on a trip? I am green with envy. I have no choice but to live vicariously through you on social media. So you had better make sure this experience is worthy of an audience. Make new friends. Have new experiences. Do things most of us would not dare to. And next time, take me with you. Have an extraordinary trip!

#13 Bon voyage! I hope your trip is the stuff of epic novels. The excitement of new adventures. The hypnotic sounds of an undiscovered world. The inviting blend of smells in the air. May your senses be awakened in extraordinary ways. I cannot wait to hear the tales you bring back upon your return. Sending you safe journey wishes.

#14 As you embark on this journey, I hope you discover new things and explore new cultures. May the people you encounter be full of life. May the places you visit be luxurious and historic. May your experiences be so extraordinary they entwine with the fabric of who you. May you return slightly different to when you left. Have a safe and memorable trip.

#15 You’re off to see tremendous sights. You’ll reach new heights and find new favorite places. Congratulations on the memories you’ll create, and all the people you’ll meet. Don’t forget to take pictures. Have a safe and wonderful trip!

#16 Wanderlust is a driving force of life. It calls us to see more of the world than we ever thought possible. We learn with every step outside our comfort zone. I’m so excited for you to begin your adventures. Good luck, and don’t forget to write. Bon Voyage!

#17 You’ve seen what you wanted to see, and now it’s time to return home. Do not be troubled by the time that has passed. I hope you find warmth in the experiences you’ve created. Until we meet again, may the wind never blow you off course. Have a safe trip home.

#18 Life is full of opportunity. I hope your travels bring you an abundance of fun and joy every minute of your trip. Stay safe and please keep in touch. I would love to hear about the great places you have seen and the adventures you have had.

#19 If I could collect all the flowers in a field, I would give them all to you as I say farewell. Let your daydreams become your reality and choose to go where nobody ever dreamed you’d be. Traveling is the best medicine for your soul. I wish you serenity and safe travels as you embark on this journey of a lifetime.

#20 When you return from your travels, you won’t be the same person. Your body will be more relaxed and your mind clearer. Little things won’t matter anymore. It’s one of the most satisfying moments in life to be able to travel and explore the planet. Take this time to embrace the changes and have a nice journey.

#21 Don’t allow fear to get in the way of your exploring. Forget about planning or any type of schedule, and just embrace your freedoms. Look for the places that warm your heart and allow them to write lots of wonderful memories. Be free, be safe and step on all the cracks! These will lead you to the places most people are afraid to explore.

#22 A voyage is a unique experience that allows us to learn about the world and meet new people. It is through this opportunity that we are newly shaped as we take these encounters with us forever. I want to wish you safe travels and I hope you enjoy your trip.

#23 Taking your first trip is like taking a sip of water for the first time. It will give you not only a thirst for more travel, but you will not be able to quell that thirst with anything else but more trips. I wish you safe and good travels.

#24 Whether you travel by car, by train, by boat, or by airplane, taking any kind of journey is an exciting venture that should be experienced by all. It is more than just a stamp in a passport, but a door to new worlds. I hope you have a safe trip.

#25 Traveling is an addictive and enjoyable pursuit. Much like the ocean wind that calls out to the sailor in port, once it gets in your skin, you will never look back. It will call to you regularly and soon you will able to think of nothing else. Enjoy your travels.

#26 Making the decision to travel comes with the knowledge that you may experience some bumps in the road. So, to you I say, may your luggage never be lost, your flights all feel like short naps, and your passport always be full of stamps. Have a fun and safe trip.

#27 Whether this is your first time traveling or your one-hundredth trip, whether it feels like a new world you are visiting or like coming home, may you never lose the desire to explore our planet and seek out new adventures. I hope you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

#28 The dream of travel can draw us in like a moth to a flame. It can inspire us to learn new languages, to try new cuisines, and can even change our way of thinking. May your dreams of traveling always be alive. I hope you have a safe trip.

#29 I believe that traveling is what allows us to learn about the world and is what makes us human, for it is when we stop traveling that we cease to learn. I encourage you to never stop learning about the world around you. I hope you enjoy your trip.

#30 I know that traveling can be like a bug that we can’t quite shake off. It can infect us and give us a restless spirit to always want to see more. Good travels to you and may you never run out of new destinations to check off your list.

#31 Wishing you all the best on your travels. May you stay safe and happy in your adventure to new places. I am excited for you and look forward to hearing how things go. You are my best friend and our friendship will continue to span all the miles you will ever cross.

#32 Dear friend, I am hoping your trip goes well. May the road you take lead to much personal happiness in the future. Though there may be mountain tops and valleys, I am sure you will find the path that leads to your best future. Stay on it when you find it.

#33 Hoping all your plans go well and that your journey brings the sense of beginning a new season to your life. Traveling can be tiring but so rewarding, especially when you meet kind people on the way. Trusting that will be your experience. Wishing you smooth sailing and happy travels.

#34 As you travel mile upon mile, please know that you are thought of in the kindest way. I am sure all will go well for you, and that this will become an amazing time to cherish for years to come. Remember your destination is only part of the experience, so enjoy the scenery on the way.

#35 Airports are fascinating places, so don’t get distracted with the people-watching and miss your flight home. I hope that everything goes according to plan as you buckle up and take off. Warm thoughts for a safe flight and a happy journey are winging their way to you right now.

#36 Hope that your journey is full of blue skies, with interesting people and beautiful places. May you travel safely to your destination and find that you feel right at home there. Settling in somewhere will take longer than getting there, but I am sure you are going to love it.

#37 Wishing you all the best on your travels. Remember that gas stations are not readily found in the middle of nowhere. Rooting for you as you embark on this expedition. Soon you will be a long way from where you were, as future opportunities lie ahead, beckoning you into new things. Have a wonderful time.

#38 I hope your journey is sprinkled with fun surprises, and plenty of time to take in the view as you go. They say road trips are an opportunity to think and process. Stay safe and awake as you drive. We would love to know when you make it safely home.

#39 Wherever you go, know that warm thoughts and hopes for a safe journey accompany you. You will never really be alone if you reach out and make new connections. It will be an amazing experience. Hope you can be present in the moment and make the most of every new sight. Have a great trip.

#40 There’s an entire universe out there waiting to be explored. Now is your chance to dig deep and find whatever it is you’re looking for. Whether you choose to climb the impossible or just take a dip in the pool to soothe your soul, have a wonderful and safe trip.

Have a Safe Trip & Safe Travel Quotes

“Adventure is worthwhile in itself.” Amelia Earhart

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” Confucius

“Live life with no excuses, travel with no regret.” Oscar Wilde

“I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.” Mary Anne Radmacher

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by.” Robert Frost

“People don’t take trips, trips take people.” John Steinbeck

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” Helen Keller

“We travel, some of us forever, to seek other states, other lives, other souls.” Anaïs Nin

“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” Andre Gide

“Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.” Erol Ozan

“Travel can be one of the most rewarding forms of introspection.” Lawrence Durrell

“If you wish to travel far and fast, travel light. Take off all your envies, jealousies, unforgiveness, selfishness and fears.” Cesare Pavese

“Actually, the best gift you could have given her was a lifetime of adventures.” Lewis Carroll

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did.” Mark Twain

“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.” Tim Cahill

“Don’t tell me how educated you are, tell me how much you have travelled.” Mohammed

“There is no moment of delight in any pilgrimage like the beginning of it.” Charles Dudley Warner

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” Aldous Huxley

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” Mark Twain

“Once a year, go somewhere you have never been before.” Dalai Lama

“Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” Miriam Beard

“Every man can transform the world from one of monotony and drabness to one of excitement and adventure.” Irving Wallace

“Blessed are the curious for they shall have adventures.” Lovelle Drachman

“I’m in love with cities I’ve never been to and people I’ve never met.” Melody Truong

“Because he had no place he could stay in without getting tired of it and because there was nowhere to go but everywhere, keep rolling under the stars.” Jack Kerouac

“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” Martin Buber

“Not all those who wander are lost.” J.R.R. Tolkien

“The man who goes alone can start today; but he who travels with another must wait till that other is ready.” Henry David Thoreau

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay home.” James Michener

“The gladdest moment in human life is a departure into unknown lands.” Sir Richard Burton

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” Gustav Flaubert

“Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journey.” Babs Hoffman

“I travel because it makes me realize how much I haven’t seen, how much I’m not going to see, and how much I still need to see.” Carew Papritz

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” Henry Miller

“The life you have led doesn’t need to be the only life you have.” Anna Quindlen

“I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” Mark Twain

“Without new experiences, something inside of us sleeps. The sleeper must awaken.” Frank Herbert

“The journey not the arrival matters.” T.S. Eliot

“We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment.” Hilaire Belloc

“Remember that happiness is a way of travel – not a destination.” Roy M. Goodman

“Surely, of all the wonders of the world, the horizon is the greatest.” Freya Stark

“I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” Susan Sontag

“Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life.” Jack Kerouac

“He who would travel happily must travel light.” Antoine de St. Exupery

“Travel far enough, you meet yourself.” David Mitchell

“Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.” Seneca

“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Neale Donald Walsch

“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine. It’s lethal.” Paulo Coelho

“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” Anita Desai

“To awaken alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.” Freya Stark

“Travel is glamorous only in retrospect.” Paul Theroux

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” Ibn Battuta

“Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul.” Jamie Lyn Beatty Thi

“The most beautiful in the world is, of course, the world itself.” Wallace Stevens

“The more I traveled the more I realized that fear makes strangers of people who should be friends.” Shirley MacLaine

“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” John A. Shedd

“Oh the places you’ll go.” Dr. Seuss

“Hope is the only thing stronger than fear.” Suzanne Collins

“It is better to travel well than to arrive.” Buddha

“A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.” Lao Tzu

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” Saint Augustine

“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.” Jennifer Lee

“Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life.” Michael Palin

“Travel is never a matter of money but of courage.” Paulo Coelho

“I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.” Oscar Wilde

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” Marcel Proust

“The use of traveling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are.” Samuel Johnson

“A journey is like marriage. The certain way to be wrong is to think you control it.” John Steinbeck

“Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen.” Benjamin Disraeli

“Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all of one’s lifetime.” Mark Twain

“If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet.” Rachel Wolchin

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Lao Tzu

“We travel for romance, we travel for architecture, and we travel to be lost.” Ray Bradbury

“Travel makes a wise man better but a fool worse.” Thomas Fuller

“For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” Robert Louis Stevenson

“No one realizes how beautiful it is to travel until he comes home and rests his head on his old, familiar pillow.” Lin Yutang

“The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.” Rudyard Kipling

“The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country as a foreign land.” G.K. Chesterton

“Our happiest moments as tourists always seem to come when we stumble upon one thing while in pursuit of something else.” Lawrence Block

“There are no foreign lands. It is the traveler only who is foreign.” Robert Louis Stevenson

“And then there is the most dangerous risk of all – the risk of spending your life not doing what you want on the bet you can buy yourself the freedom to do it later.” Randy Komisar

“I always wonder why birds choose to stay in the same place when they can fly anywhere on earth, then I ask myself the same question.” Harun Yahya

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” Anthony Bourdain

“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” Jawaharial Nehru

How to travel safely and responsibly in 2022 and beyond

Wondering how to travel safely during COVID-19? Many of us are longing to travel again, but only if we can do so safely and responsibly.

We’ve put a lot of thought into the safest ways to take a vacation right now. And we plan to continually update this post with safe travel ideas and tips, as travel restrictions change and Coronavirus travel advice evolves.

In this post, we cover: – Safety tips to help you travel again during COVID-19 – Safe trip ideas for 2022 travel in the United States – What to pack for pandemic travel – Places to visit and travel restriction resources by destination 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

Table of Contents

How to travel safely and responsibly right now

Step one: Follow CDC travel guidelines

You should already know and practice hand washing, physical distancing, and wearing of face coverings in public.

Responsible travel right now also means being as self-contained as possible to avoid unnecessary interactions or depletion of supplies in the communities you enter. For this reason, consider bringing your own food and supplies when possible.

Be sure to research and obey local restrictions, especially when visiting a destination outside of your home community. Infection rates, hospital capacity, and testing vary widely. Some communities may not have adequate resources in case of an outbreak.

Please respect if a city, State, or county is discouraging non-essential travel.

The following travel activities are ranked on a scale of 1 to 10 by infectious disease experts according to risk of exposure to the virus (first number from Fall 2020 * , second italicized numbers for fully vaccinated people as of April 2021 * ):

Low Risk: – Going camping (2, 1 ) – Getting restaurant take-out (2, 1 ) – Pumping gas (2) – Grocery shopping (3, 1.4 ) – Going for a walk with others (3) Moderate risk: – Staying at a hotel for 2 nights (4) – Going to a beach (5) – Swimming (6) High risk: – Eating inside a restaurant (7, 3.6 ) – Playing contact sports (7) – Traveling by plane (7, 2.7 ) – Going to an amusement park (8) – Attending a large event (9) – Going to a bar (9)

Consequently, we’ll focus on local camping road trips and staycations as the best way to travel safely right now .

Safe trip ideas

After researching safe travel ideas during Covid, we came up with three trip recommendations. These trip ideas were chosen because they:

• Avoid exposure to crowds and public spaces in transit
• Allow you to cook your own meals or order take out, like you would at home
• Avoid being in vehicles with others outside your group
• Let you control who and what enters your living space
• Provide access to no-contact activities like hiking, scenic drives, and lounging

1. Take an RV Road Trip

Camping or taking a road trip in an RV allows you to social distance and be self-contained as you travel. With your own kitchen, you have control over what comes in and out of your space, just like at home. And with your own bathroom facilities, you can avoid using public restrooms. 

The only difference from staying home vs. a socially distanced RV road trip is that you’ll need to fuel up with gas. By wearing a face mask, watching what you touch at the gas station, and washing hands or using hand sanitizer, this risk can be minimized fairly easily.

Whether you’re driving to reach a destination without airport crowds, or choosing a single stop for a staycation near home, an RV road trip is a great way to get a change of scenery while still maintaining your home safety routines.

Read: How to rent an RV (for beginners)

Outdoorsy is like Airbnb for RVs. It’s where RV owners rent out their RVs when they’re not using them.

If you’ve always wanted to try out a motorhome, or want to upgrade your National Parks road trip with a cute Airstream, consider renting through Outdoorsy. Their customer service and reviews have outranked the other top RV rental companies. You can search listings by vehicle type and location. Some owners will even deliver the motorhome to your door! *Take $50 off your Outdoorsy rental with coupon code: intentional

Browse and book RVs, motorhomes, trailers, and campervans on Outdoorsy here

2. Escape with No-Contact Tent Camping

Camping is rated one of the lowest risk travel activities for Coronavirus transmission. Being outdoors with plenty of space not only limits exposure but it’s good for the soul.

With a little prep, you can bring food to cook your own meals. See our camping road trip packing checklist .

But what about using public restrooms when camping? If you don’t have an RV with self-contained bathroom facilities, the essential business of “eliminating waste” becomes your greatest exposure to indoor, pubic facilities where you may need to touch doors, faucets, etc. 

By adding a few new camping items, it’s possible to avoid public bathrooms on your camping trip.

See our socially distanced, no-contact camping packing list for the pandemic

3. Staycation in a Vacation Rental

With vacation rentals like Airbnb, you can book an entire guest house or apartment. This way, you can keep similar safety practices that you have at home. For example, you can cook at your vacation home, ordering take out or curbside grocery pick up for meals.

You can book your getaway within driving distance from home, or along the route of a socially distanced road trip. Staying near home is a great way to enjoy a change of scenery while avoiding crowds in airports.

Compared to a hotel stay, you’re like to have fewer interactions with staff or other travelers when renting a vacation home.

Read: What safety precautions to take when renting an Airbnb

What to pack for safe, responsible trips

😷 Face Masks  – Cloth face coverings are required in public places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide >  or  designer options at Vida >

🧴 Hand sanitizer  – Bring enough for your entire trip, as alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be in short supply. Shop hand sanitizer >

💊 Medicine  – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder  – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector >   or  Vegan leather clippable >  or  Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test  – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT  valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS >  or  Walmart >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

Travel restrictions by destination

As travel restrictions change around the world, we’re tracking the travel guidelines for specific destinations in an effort to help you make informed decisions about where to travel and when.

Japan travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

Italy travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, paris france travel requirements 2024: what american travelers need to know, jamaica travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, croatia travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, ecuador travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, vietnam travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, philippines travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, thailand travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, canada travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, hawaii travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, merida mexico travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know.

Let us know in the comments below what questions or ideas you have for traveling safely during Covid-19.

Like this post? Pin it for later or share with friends!

Similar Posts

New book! Unconventional Budget Accommodations now on Amazon

Click to Order the Book on Amazon Update: Unconventional Budget Accommodations is now available in paperback! The audiobook version will hopefully be ready in early October. For anyone who purchases a paperback during launch week (before October 3, 2018), I’ll send you a free gift! Just forward your e-receipt to michelle[at]intentionaltravelers.com and let me know…

Self-Guided Walking Tours: Now On Your Phone With GPS

Exploring new places on foot is one of our favorite ways to travel. That’s why many of our blog posts feature self-guided walking tours. We put together lists and maps of great places to visit in places like Brussels, Bruges, Paris, and Cuenca because that’s the kind of information we search for when we’re traveling. But what if we could…

We aim to keep this post updated about Ecuador travel in 2024 with official Ecuador travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours. We stayed in Cuenca, Ecuador in 2022 and…

Makapu’u Lighthouse Hike and Tidepools – Oahu, Hawaii

The Makapu’u Lighthouse trail is one of the most accessible and popular hiking paths on Oahu. The lookout is about one mile each way on a wide, freshly paved path where you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and Koko Head. The wide, paved path up to the look out with a lower, dirt…

Best of Oahu: 5 Day Itinerary for First Time Visitors to Hawaii

If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, then Oahu is one of the best places to get to know the beautiful state. We’ll help you plan the perfect trip with our Oahu 5 day itinerary. Oahu is the third largest of the Hawaiian islands and is home to state capital, Honolulu, where Jedd grew up….

Top Things to Do in Memphis

Most of us have misconceptions of a city before we actually visit. I honestly didn’t know much about Memphis but my expectations were not too high. What we’ve discovered throughout our road trip is the great value in knowing a local who can show you around. They’ve already put in the time to discover what…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• TEFL Internship
• TEFL Masters
• Find a TEFL Course
• Special Offers
• Course Providers
• Teach English Abroad
• Find a TEFL Job
• About DoTEFL
• Our Mission
• How DoTEFL Works

Forgotten Password

• 29 Essential Travel Safety Tips: How to Travel Safely Abroad
• James Prior
• No Comments
• Updated February 23, 2024

Traveling abroad can be a thrilling adventure that broadens your horizons and creates lifelong memories. However, it’s important to remember that the world can be a diverse and sometimes unpredictable place. Ensuring your safety while exploring abroad should be a top priority. That’s why we’ve put together a list of 29 essential travel safety tips to help you minimize any risks and make the most of your time away.

So, read on to learn how to travel safely abroad.

Table of Contents

How to Travel Safely Abroad

Ready to embark on a trip of a lifetime? Before you go, it’s worth taking the time to consider any steps you can take to ensure your travel safety and help you stay safe abroad. After all, you want to return home with positive memories that you’ll talk about for years to come, not with an experience you’d rather forget!

Here is a list of 29 travel safety tips to help you set off on the right foot:

1. Research Your Destination

Before you embark on your journey, invest time in researching your chosen destination. Learning about the local culture, customs, and traditions not only enriches your travel experience but also helps you navigate unfamiliar situations. Additionally, understanding the local laws and regulations is vital to avoid any unintentional mishaps that could occur in a foreign country.

Start by consulting reliable travel guides and websites, reading up on local customs, and gathering insights from fellow travelers who have visited the same destination. The more informed you are about your chosen location, the better equipped you’ll be to respect local norms and stay safe.

2. Check Travel Advisories

One of the most crucial steps in travel safety is staying up-to-date with government travel advisories for your destination. These advisories provide valuable information about potential safety and security concerns, ranging from health risks to political instability. Government agencies like the U.S. State Department and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office regularly update their travel advisories with important insights and recommendations on different countries.

Keep in mind that travel advisories can change rapidly, so it’s essential to check for updates before and during your trip. While an advisory doesn’t necessarily mean you should cancel your plans, it does provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your itinerary and activities.

You can check here for the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories .

You can check here for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice .

3. Take Health Precautions & Get Vaccinations

Your health should be a top priority when traveling abroad. Visit a travel clinic or consult your healthcare provider well in advance of your departure to ensure you receive the necessary vaccinations and health advice tailored to your destination. Alternatively, you can do your own research online if you’re feeling confident.

Just remember, different countries have various health risks, including diseases like malaria, yellow fever, and typhoid. Some destinations may require proof of vaccination as a condition of entry. By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself and enjoy your journey without the worry of preventable health issues.

4. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a non-negotiable aspect of international travel. It serves as a safety net, covering unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost belongings, and more. While it may feel like an additional expense, it’s a small investment compared to the potential costs of unforeseen events while abroad. If you need medical attention and don’t have travel insurance you could run into some very high bills!

Choose a comprehensive travel insurance plan that suits your needs and destination. Read the fine print to understand what’s covered and ensure you have contact information for the insurance provider readily available in case of emergencies. Having travel insurance in place offers peace of mind and financial security during your journey.

It’s worth taking a copy of your travel insurance certificate with you so that you have it to hand in case you need it.

5. Register with Your Embassy

Before departing for your destination, take a moment to register with your country’s embassy or consulate. This simple step can be a lifesaver in emergencies, such as natural disasters or political unrest. It’s a free service, and when you register your government will have a record of your presence in the country, making it easier for them to contact you and provide assistance if needed.

Embassies and consulates can also offer valuable advice and information about local conditions. Additionally, they can help citizens abroad with lost passports, legal issues, and medical emergencies, serving as a reliable source of support while abroad.

6. Check Your Passport and Visa

Your passport is your key to international travel, so it’s essential to ensure it’s in order before leaving your home country. Check its expiration date; most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.

In addition to a valid passport, research and obtain the necessary visas for your destination. Visa requirements can vary widely from one country to another, so it’s vital to plan ahead. Failure to comply with visa regulations could result in denied entry or even deportation, so double-check your documents to avoid any unwelcome surprises upon arrival. You don’t want to be put on a flight home before you’ve even been able to set foot in the country!

7. Take Copies of Your Important Documents

One of the simplest yet most effective safety precautions you can take when traveling internationally is making copies of any important travel documents. Photocopy your passport, visa, and itinerary, and carry these copies separately from the originals. Additionally, scan or photograph your documents and store digital copies securely online, accessible through cloud storage or email. You should also do this with your travel insurance.

These precautions are invaluable if your documents are lost or stolen during your trip. With photocopies and digital copies of your important documents in hand, you can quickly prove your identity and facilitate replacements. Remember to keep your originals in a secure location, such as a hotel safe.

8. Travel Light

Overpacking can be tempting, but it can also be a safety hazard. Carrying excessive luggage can make you a target for thieves and hinder your ability to move around comfortably. To stay safe and mobile, pack only what you truly need for your journey.

Consider the climate and activities you’ll be participating in and pack accordingly. Opt for versatile clothing and lightweight, easy-to-carry luggage. By traveling light, you’ll have greater flexibility, reduce the risk of lost belongings, and enjoy a more stress-free journey.

9. Pack a First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is a travel essential that can come to your rescue in various situations. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need. Having a first aid kit on hand allows you to address minor injuries and ailments promptly, ensuring your trip continues smoothly.

10. Manage Your Finances

Managing your finances wisely is crucial when traveling abroad. Carry a mix of payment methods, including cash, credit cards, and a travel money card. Diversifying your payment options is a noteworthy travel hack and ensures you’re prepared for various situations.

Keep emergency funds separate from your daily spending money, so you always have a backup in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies.

Before departing, inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to prevent unexpected card blocks due to suspicious international transactions. It’s worth just checking the balance on your debit card at an airport ATM when you arrive in a new country as it can help let the bank know you’re there.

11. Stay Informed

To stay safe while traveling abroad, it’s essential to stay informed about local conditions and events. Keep an eye on local news and current events in your destination to stay aware of any potential risks or developments that might affect your plans.

Political unrest, natural disasters, and health crises can all impact your travel experience. By staying informed, you can adjust your itinerary or make alternative arrangements to ensure your safety and well-being. Most importantly, trust your instincts—if a situation doesn’t feel right, take immediate steps to remove yourself from it.

12. Know Emergency Numbers

Understanding local emergency numbers is crucial for your safety while abroad. These numbers may vary from country to country, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the correct ones for your destination. In addition to knowing the local emergency number, find out the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in case you need assistance.

Having these numbers readily available can be a lifesaver in situations such as accidents, medical emergencies, or if you become a victim of crime. Be prepared to provide your location and details of the emergency when calling for assistance.

It’s also worth knowing the location of the nearest embassy and police station if you do find yourself in need of help.

13. Brush Up Your Language Skills

While English is widely spoken in many parts of the world, taking the time to learn basic phrases in the local language can enhance your travel experience and improve your safety. Simple greetings, expressions of gratitude, and phrases for asking for help can go a long way in building rapport with locals and navigating everyday situations.

Learning a few key phrases not only shows respect for the local culture but also ensures you can communicate effectively in case of emergencies or when seeking assistance. It’s a valuable skill that can open doors to new friendships and enrich your travel experience.

14. Secure Your Valuables

Protecting your valuables and personal belongings should be a top priority throughout your journey. Use a money belt or hidden pouch to carry your passport, cash, and essential documents. These items should be close to your body and out of sight, making it challenging for pickpockets to target you.

Additionally, take advantage of hotel safes to secure valuables when you’re not using them. This extra layer of protection ensures peace of mind while you explore your destination. When venturing out, avoid carrying unnecessary items like expensive jewelry or electronics that might attract thieves.

15. Blend In

To minimize the risk of drawing unwanted attention and potential theft, dress modestly and avoid wearing flashy clothing or excessive jewelry. While you may want to express your personal style, it’s important to remember that certain clothing choices can make you stand out as a tourist.

Before your trip, research the local dress code and cultural norms, and aim to blend in with the locals. This not only helps you stay safe but also shows respect for the local culture and customs. As a bonus, it can lead to more authentic interactions with the people you meet along the way.

16. Avoid Wearing Expensive Jewelry

While it’s tempting to showcase your favorite jewelry while traveling, it’s generally safer to leave expensive pieces at home. Wearing valuable jewelry like high-end watches can make you a target for theft. Instead, opt for more modest accessories that won’t attract undue attention. Remember, it’s the experiences and memories that truly enrich your journey, not the possessions you bring along.

17. Learn Self-Defense

While it may seem a bit leftfield and the hope is never to use it, learning basic self-defense techniques can provide an added layer of security. Consider taking self-defense classes before your trip to gain confidence and skills to protect yourself in an emergency. Self-defense training can also empower you to react calmly and effectively if faced with a threatening situation.

18. Ensure Transportation Safety

When it comes to transportation, safety should be a top concern. Research and choose reputable transportation providers for your journeys within your destination. This includes using well-established taxi companies, licensed tour operators, and reliable public transportation options.

Before entering a vehicle, confirm the fare or agree on a price with the driver to avoid disputes later. Be cautious when sharing rides with strangers, and trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, opt for a different mode of transportation or seek assistance.

Different countries have different types of transport so you may find yourself traveling in ways your not familiar with back home.

19. Avoid Unregistered Taxis

Taxis are a common mode of transportation in many countries, but not all taxi services are created equal. To ensure your safety, only use licensed and reputable taxi services. Avoid unregistered or unofficial taxis that may not adhere to safety standards or regulations.

Before getting into a taxi, ask the driver to turn on the meter or agree on a fixed fare. Make note of the taxi’s license plate number and driver’s identification information. This precaution helps ensure a smooth and secure journey to your destination.

20. Have Travel Companions

Traveling with companions can enhance your overall experience and provide an added layer of safety. Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or trekking through remote landscapes, sticking together with your travel companions is a smart practice.

Especially when visiting unfamiliar or potentially risky areas, the “buddy system” can deter potential threats and ensure someone is there to assist if you encounter any challenges. Communication and mutual support among your group are key to a safe and enjoyable journey.

21. Drink Responsibly

Enjoying local beverages can be an integral part of experiencing a new culture, but it’s essential to drink responsibly. Overindulgence can lead to poor decision-making and put your safety at risk.

Always know your limits, stay hydrated, and have a plan for getting back to your accommodation safely. Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers, and never leave your drink unattended to avoid the risk of tampering.

22. Stay Hydrated

Maintaining proper hydration is essential for your health and safety while traveling abroad. In some countries, tap water may not be safe to drink, so it’s important to rely on bottled water or purified water sources.

Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with safe water as needed. Dehydration can lead to various health issues, including heat-related illnesses, so make it a habit to drink plenty of water throughout your travels. Be cautious when consuming street food and beverages, and opt for reputable establishments to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

23. Be Aware of Scams

Tourist destinations are often hotspots for scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. Familiarize yourself with common tourist scams in your destination and be on the lookout for red flags.

Common scams may include pickpocketing, distraction tactics, fake tour guides, and counterfeit products. Stay vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and trust your instincts if someone approaches you with a suspicious offer or request for money.

24. Trust Your Instincts

Your intuition is a powerful tool when it comes to travel safety. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and take immediate action to remove yourself from it.

Whether it’s a sketchy neighborhood, a pushy salesperson, or a suspicious interaction, prioritize your safety over everything else. It’s better to err on the side of caution and seek assistance or shelter if necessary.

25. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Maintaining awareness of your surroundings is a fundamental aspect of staying safe while abroad. Avoid walking around with headphones on or engrossed in your phone, as this can make you vulnerable to theft or accidents.

Stay alert, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas, and trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right. If it doesn’t come across as a safe place take steps to leave that location. Awareness is your first line of defense.

26. Travel During the Day

Whenever possible, plan your travel and exploration activities during daylight hours. Daytime offers better visibility and safety than venturing out at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

If you need to travel at night, research safe transportation options and consider using reputable taxi services or ridesharing apps. Take extra precautions by avoiding walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas, and stay in well-traveled, well-lit areas when exploring after dark.

27. Check In with Friends and Family

In case of unexpected situations, having a trusted friend or family member who knows your whereabouts can be invaluable. Regularly check in with friends or family members back home to let them know you’re safe and where you are. Share your itinerary and update them on your plans.

Consider using a messaging app or social media to keep loved ones informed and leave them your accommodation details in case they can’t reach you by conventional means. It can also be worth leaving a friend or family member a copy of your passport or any other important documents before you leave in case you misplace them whilst away.

28. Ask Locals for Advice

Locals often possess invaluable insights about their hometown or region. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations and ask for advice or recommendations.

Locals can provide tips on safe areas to visit, hidden gems, and the best places to eat. Their knowledge can help you make the most of your travels while avoiding potential pitfalls.

29. Avoid Unnecessary Risks

While travel often includes adventurous activities, it’s crucial to evaluate the risks involved and exercise caution. Think twice before engaging in risky behaviors such as wandering into unknown neighborhoods at night, taking part in extreme sports, scaling precarious cliffs for photos, or swimming in unfamiliar waters without a lifeguard.

Try to prioritize safety over thrill-seeking to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. And, if you are doing extreme sports or water activities, make sure you have insurance that covers the highest-risk activities.

Get Out There & Travel

Traveling abroad can be a transformative experience filled with adventure and cultural discovery. And, while safety should always be at the forefront of your travel plans, you shouldn’t let your concerns prevent you from taking your trip in the first place. By researching your destination, staying informed, and taking practical precautions, you can enjoy a secure and memorable journey.

Responsible and mindful travel not only enhances your personal safety but also contributes to a more positive and respectful interaction with the places and cultures you visit.

Just remember that these travel safety tips are adaptable to various destinations, and some countries will not be the same as other countries. Irrespective of this, by incorporating these tips into your travel safety routine they can help you navigate unfamiliar environments with confidence and minimize potential risks. So, use them as a foundation for safe and rewarding travels around the world.

With that, we wish you safe travels and bon voyage!

• Recent Posts

• ESOL Meaning, Definition, and What It Involves - September 7, 2024
• 23 Icebreaker Activities & Games to Break The Ice With Students - September 7, 2024
• 67 Icebreaker Games & Activities (For All Age Groups) - September 6, 2024

More from DoTEFL

11 of the Best English Learning Apps For English Learners

• Updated January 8, 2024

22 Companies Where You Can Teach English Online to Chinese Students

• Updated March 22, 2024

93 Business Idioms With Their Meanings & Examples

• Updated May 26, 2024

How to Print Your Flyer at Home: A Step-By-Step Guide

• Updated December 7, 2023

Cultural Immersion in Language Learning: Why It’s Important

• Updated September 3, 2024

Bests or Best? How to Correctly Sign Off an Email

• Updated February 19, 2023
• The global TEFL course directory.

33 Underrated Travel Safety Tips for First Timers (To Keep You Safe Abroad)

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

In the world of trip planning, there are many fun things we look forward to – plotting where to feast, strategizing what to wear, sketching the optimal route for frolicking…

But learning about how to stay safe abroad? Ugh. Boringggg.

I get it – it’s not the most exciting part of travel, but it is arguably the most important. So I’m here today to make it as painless as possible.

In today’s post, you’ll find a list of essential travel safety tips to remember no matter where you’re going, from tried and true classics to more modern additions, like innocent social media habits that could inadvertently put you in danger.

Save this list of Travel Safety Tips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Avoid posting on social media in real time while you travel 

We need to tackle this travel safety tip first, because I feel like almost nobody ever discusses it. So, let me shout it at you from a tall rooftop and tattoo it on your thigh: please be careful with your social media usage when you travel.

From checking in at the airport on Facebook to posting stories from every restaurant you visit, a good travel safety rule to abide by is to not ever post in real time.

There’s a few reasons for this: first, when you do post in real time, you’re basically announcing your exact whereabouts to the world which can 1) be used to locate you mid-spaghetti slurp in Italy and 2) alert people to the fact that you’re not at home, which can make your house a vulnerable target for break ins.

Granted, a lot of this risk can be mitigated with strict privacy settings, but when it comes to safety I always think better safe than sorry, hence this long video with some admittedly pretty paranoid tips.

Plus, there are some loopholes in the social media world that mean any posts meant just for friends/followers end up being seen by strangers.

For example:

• When you geotag a location in your Instagram posts/story, it can often get added to a public story for that location/city/region which means anyone can flick through it and see your dance moves at that club you went to
• When you post in a group on Facebook, depending on the privacy settings of that group, your post might get shown in strangers’ feeds… even if they aren’t in that group
• When your friend comments on a vacation post on Facebook, that activity might then show up on THEIR friends’ feeds even if you’re not personally friends with them

So, from this lens, you can see how even common things like posting a photo of the view from your hotel can be used to find your exact whereabouts abroad, which is why you should avoid sharing this stuff in real time. These days, I personally wait until after I’m gone to share anything.

2. Time your arrivals for during the day 

Next up is a basic but highly underrated tip which is to ensure your flights/trains/buses arrive in your new destination during the day.

This may be a personal preference, something about arriving in a new destination while it’s light out just makes me feel SO much safer, especially when you’re using public transport rather than a taxi to reach your accommodation. So, be sure to factor that into your planning when you’re booking transport!

3. Familiarize yourself with local scams 

Unfortunately wherever there are tourists, there are scams to watch out for.

There’s good news though! There are tons of resources online from your fellow travellers that summarize many of these scams. So it may seem simple but don’t forget to search “destination + tourist scams” before you go so you know what to look out for.

4. Look up safety in terms of neighbourhoods before you book accommodation

Many travellers often assume that central is best when it comes to booking accommodation for a trip, but depending on where you’re going, often there are undesirable areas even in the city center, close to tourist spots.

A common trap for instance is assuming that hotels near the train station are good for their location, when in reality they can often be the roughest parts of town.

SO, be sure to research specific neighbourhoods in your destination before booking. There are many great resources for that these days. I like searching Reddit (you can just Google “neighbourhoods to avoid in [destination] reddit” or you could also ask on Facebook groups for local insight. 

In any case though, look for recent posts only because neighbourhoods can change a great deal over a few years, meaning many older travel guides may be outdated.

5. Research local laws and regulations

Just because things are done in a certain way back home, doesn’t mean that’s how things are done in your destination.

There’s a surprising number of things that can get you fined (or worse) when you travel. This of course depends on where you’re going, but even simple things like feeding pigeons, playing music on a beach or using swear words are things that have gotten tourists in trouble… so don’t forget to look into local regulations before you go!

6. Research restrictions and rules on medication

A similar travel safety tip if you travel with medication is to look into whether you can actually bring your medication into your destination, because different countries can have different rules about these things… and the last thing you want is to get caught with illicit ‘substances’ in a new place, even if they’re just standard medication you would take back home.

7. Be sure to get travel insurance

Now this one is a given, but remember: having travel insurance is usually a good idea, or better yet, investing a travel credit card that includes insurance is a good idea. This means not having to pay extra for it, and having great coverage worry-free.

I usually get insurance through my credit card which makes life SO much easier, but for longer trips I typically book with WorldNomads and can highly recommend them.

8. Do not make yourself an appealing target for robbery 

Now, I’ve previously written about how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , but honestly the #1 tip I can offer for any destination is to simply not look robbable.

The logic is fairly easy to follow: if you’re out wearing flashy jewelry or really expensive clothes, you’re naturally more of a target for petty theft… so my rule of thumb is to not go out with anything that I wouldn’t mind losing. I know you want to look nice on your trip, but if you can’t stomach losing your heirloom necklace or fancy watch, then do not bring it abroad with you.

9. Don’t carry too much cash on you

On a similar note, another travel safety tip I always advise is to never carry more than you’d be comfortable losing, and be sure to split up your cash and cards in different bags so if one goes, you still have backups.

10. Pay attention to your surroundings

This again sounds like common sense, but it’s worth repeating: it can be VERY easy to get distracted when you’re travelling, so remember to stay sharp and vigilant even as you’re oohing and ahhing your way through the sights.

Most of the time, pickpocketing or petty theft occurs by them getting close to you while you’re distracted, so keeping distance from people and staying alert can really save you in most cases.

11. Keep your valuables in a safe and close spot for ease of mind

As much as we can discuss avoiding theft, at the end of the day, what you need to protect most are your cards, your phone and your passport. The rest can be easily replaced. So make sure you prioritize keeping these in safe place all throughout your travels.

A lot of people swear by money belts that you wear under your clothes, like this one…

Made of breathable & washable natural silk, this money belt is a comfortable way to keep cash, cards and important documents stashed safely when you travel.

But to be honest, those have never really worked for me just because I don’t find them very comfortable. I prefer wearing jackets or vests that have an inside pocket – that way I always have my stuff accessible, but also tucked away so that it’s impossible for people to get to. 

But if you’re a money belt person, go for it – I’m not here to judge.

12. (Maybe) Get an RFID blocking wallet

This is a common piece of travel safety advice I’ve heard a lot, that getting an RFID blocking wallet supposedly prevents your details from getting skimmed by scanners.

But I wouldn’t say that this is an absolute must because based on my research, this kind of crime is pretty rare. That said, it’s not impossible, so if it’s in your budget or if you have one already, if couldn’t hurt to bring one on your trip.

Looking for an RFID blocking wallet that doesn't break the bank? This slim unisex design is perfect for travel, and comes in over 30 different colours.

13. Know where the embassy or consulate is

In a worst case scenario, you may need to get help from your country’s embassy (if you’re in your destination’s capital city) or from the local consulate (if you’re in a place outside your destination’s capital).

So, it might be worth taking note of where the closest one is, just so you know where to go if you absolutely need to.

Truth be told, these days with our phones, it’s pretty easy to find locations and directions quickly, but in a case where even your phone gets stolen and there’s no other way for you to seek help, then knowing how to quickly get to the embassy/consulate can be a huge lifesaver.

14. Use location trackers to keep track of your valuables

It might sound paranoid, but honestly if you’re worried about theft abroad, putting location trackers on your most valuable belongings can bring SO much peace of mind to a trip, so I’d recommend investing in a few. I now have one for each of my suitcases, and one I throw in my backpack/purse and wallet.

As an Apple user, I use AirTags, but Tile makes location trackers as well that are compatible with any device.

If you're checking a bag, the best accessory you'll ever spend money on is an Apple AirTag. With it, you can monitor where your bag is at all times, which provides priceless ease of mind.

15. Back things up frequently

Another travel safety tip that I feel like nobody mentions is the importance of backing things up.

Most of the time when things get stolen, they can eventually be replaced, but what can’t be replaced are things like memories and photos, so I would recommend backing up photos and videos every evening when you get back to the hotel, just in case.

… I say this as someone who had a terrible hard drive crash years ago and ended up losing almost 9 months worth of amazing video footage… so don’t be like me!

16. Ensure there’s no way your phone can be put on airplane mode without your passcode 

Okay, this is an important one, and it’s one that not many people know about, so listen up.

If there is a way for your phone to be put on Airplane Mode when it’s locked, then be sure to disable this feature when you’re out and about.

With iPhones for instance, a lot of us have a shortcut enabled that allows us to swipe down on an unlocked phone screen to show our Control Center, where we can quickly then put the phone on airplane mode. This sounds harmless enough until you realize that a common trick that phone thieves use when they take your phone is they put it on airplane mode immediately so it can’t be tracked as easily.

SO, remember to disable any convenient features that might allow a phone thief to put your phone on airplane mode.

With iPhones, this is the process for turning off Control Center access on a locked phone:

• Go to Settings
• Go to the Face ID and Passcode section
• Scroll down to “Allow Access When Locked” and toggle off Control Center

17. Keep loved ones updated on your whereabouts

Another important travel safety tip is to just keep people from home in the loop about your trip and where you’re headed, especially if you’re on your own.

(Again, do not do this through public social media because you don’t want everyone to know your whereabouts all the time!)

For a more discrete solution, there are lots of apps you can use these days like the Find My app for iPhone users that allow you to effortlessly share your location, so consider enabling something like this during your trip. 

18. Have a game plan in case your phone gets stolen

Now, another underrated travel safety tip in the era of smartphones is simply having a plan in place in the worst case scenario that your phone is stolen.

If you’re anything like me, you have your whole life on your phone, so if it goes, you’re left pretty helpless. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place if your phone does get taken from you.

So, think to yourself: if my phone gets stolen, how can I make the aftermath as painless as possible?

Some things I would do are…

• Get a business card from your hotel as soon as you check in so you have a copy of the address
• Memorize how to get to your hotel based on landmarks
• Have a copy of important phone numbers you might need and leave it at the hotel
• Make frequent backups of all my phone info (like on iCloud) so that I can easily load all my info into a new phone when I get it
• Sync my phone with other devices (e.g. my MacBook) so I have a link to it if it gets taken
• Have at least $20 backup cash in case all my cards are synced to my phone

19. Buy a special privacy screen protector

As I mentioned above, these days we live out our whole lives on our phones, conducting everything from private conversations to banking on our little devices.

But of course, we get so absorbed by our phones that sometimes we forget a very simple thing: strangers can read your screen too!

So, if you’re paranoid about this, do know that they make special privacy screen protectors now that make it impossible to see what’s on your screen unless you’re right in front of it. This can be handy for avoiding situations like people seeing your passcode/passwords, your precise route and where you’re headed, etc.

A handy and affordable screen protector for your phone that prevents others from seeing what's on your screen. NOTE: Be sure to get the right size for your phone!

20. Minimize the personal details on your luggage tag

Speaking of obscuring private information, another important travel safety tip is this: when you’re packing your bags, make sure you don’t write any personal information on luggage tags that you’d feel weird about a stranger seeing.

A lot of people write things like their full name and address (in fact, most luggage tags have these lines built in!) but honestly these days, just an email or phone number would be sufficient. You could also get a luggage tag with a cover for additional privacy.

These luggage tags are built with privacy covers to keep your details safe, and (best of all), they come in over 20 colours! PS: They're the #1 most purchased luggage tags on Amazon.

21. Pack a basic first aid kit

If you’re travelling somewhere more remote (or honestly, so long as you have the space), I’d advise packing a little travel first aid kit so that you are covered in case anything goes wrong.

This would of course be more important for trips where you’re planning to do a lot of physical activities (e.g. hiking), but even for city breaks I would pack essentials like bandaids, blister pads and pain medication.

This flat first aid kit contains 298 items including bandages, antibiotic ointments, pain medication & more.

22. Make copies of important documents

Another safety precaution I would take is making sure I have copies of important documents like my passport, visas, and IDs. As I mention in my iPhone travel hacks post, I like to have copies accessible on my phone, but I’d also print some physical copies too in case my phone got stolen.

BONUS TIP: I would also put together a “doomsday doc” with emergency numbers and info, e.g. what number to call if your credit card gets stolen.

23. Buy or print out some cards about your allergies in the local language

Now let’s move onto some food-related safety tips for travel!

The first one is simple – if you have any food allergies, be sure to get some printed cards that explain your allergies in the local language. Do not try to rely on your own language skills to get you through this – having a printed version helps make things crystal clear.

24. Be more cautious re: food hygiene

Depending on your destination, you should also pay attention to food hygiene a bit more than you regularly would at home.

If you’re going somewhere without a ready supply of clean drinking water for instance, I would be sure to take some extra steps like…

• Avoiding ice in your drink
• Going for fully cooked food (rather than sneaky surprise foods like salad, raw fruit or veggies that can carry illness if the water isn’t clean)
• Aiming to eat at busy places to minimize the likelihood that food has been sitting out 
• Sticking with fruits that contain built in protection like bananas and oranges (rather than ones where you eat the skin, like apples)
• Carrying a portable water filter straw like a LifeStraw if you’re going somewhere with questionable water quality

This amazing handy (and affordable) tool allows you to drink clean, filtered water on the go. Perfect for those who spend a lot of time outdoors!

25. Sanitize your hands before eating

In a post-2020 world, I think we’re all pros at sanitizing our hands by now… but it’s easy to get complacent and forget. So, remember: if you’re eating, sanitize those grabbers.

26. Pick options where there’a a paper trail

Now this is a vague-sounding travel safety tip, but allow me to explain: there are many instances in travel when you might have the opportunity to pay in cash in-person vs. booking things online and paying in advance.

My preference is to always book the option that has a paper trail (e.g. receipts, confirmations, etc.)

So if you’re getting a taxi for instance, order through an app instead of flagging one down on the street. This gives you an additional bit of security because the more of a paper trail there is, the less likely it will be a scam.

This isn’t a foolproof technique of course, but ordering a taxi through an app for me will always feel safer than getting in a random car I’ve waved down.

27. Wherever possible, pay with credit cards and not debit cards

With credit cards, you tend to have more recourse if things go wrong and also from my experience they’re more universally accepted than debit cards.

I can highly recommend getting a travel-friendly card like Wise.

28. Never say your hotel room number out loud

Now when you get to your accommodation abroad, there are a few extra tips to keep in mind.

The first is to never say your room number or floor out loud. You never know who might be listening close by. Most hotel staff are now trained to never say the room number out loud to you and there’s a reason for that, so don’t forget!

29. Do a quick check of your hotel room before settling in

When you arrive in your room, it might also be wise to do a quick check before you settle in as well.

I admit I’m not the most diligent with this, but a lot of travellers swear by doing a full sweep of the room just in case, looking inside the closet, behind curtains in the bathroom, even under the bed to double check nobody else is in the room.

At this point it might also be smart to do a quick check for bed bugs.

30. Use the hotel room deadbolt

When it comes to staying safe at hotels, I just make sure I lock the deadbolt before going to sleep, though some travellers swear by carrying their own special locks like this one, or even putting a loud object at the door so if someone does come in, it makes a loud noise.

NOTE: I know this all sounds like a lot and it makes travel sound so dangerous but I promise I’ve felt safe during 99% of my travels. Honestly at the end of the day it comes down to your own comfort levels and it’s about feeling safe more than anything else, so many of these tactics might sound like overkill, but pick and choose the ones that would make you feel safest. 

31. Be picky with the ATMs you use

Another important tip: if you’re getting money out from a local ATM, do be a bit picky with which ATMs you choose.

I typically only go to ones that are connected to banks rather than the standalone ones which often charge more fees anyway.

Often ATM scams rely on scanners that steal your information, which is why the well lit ATMs in bank buildings with cameras tend to be harder to tamper with. Again, this isn’t a foolproof system, but ultimately the only thing you can do is just minimize potential threats… so remember to go for ATMs in bright places!

32. Never have noise cancelling headphones on at 100%

Remember: when you’re travelling, make sure you’re never wearing noise cancelling headphones at 100% volume.

It’s very important in travel to be aware of your surroundings and I think a lot of travellers these days can take their safety for granted and wear headphones everywhere because they’re used to them… but it goes without saying, you need to have access to all your senses when you travel, so make sure you can hear!

33. Don’t risk personal safety for photos

Finally, I have to be a boring grandma and remind you that your life is not worth risking for a cool photo or video.

I get it – the world is a gorgeous place and it’s in our nature to want nice mementos, but risking your life for a photo or video is never a good idea.

There have sadly been many stories over the years of tourists losing their lives at tall viewpoints or hikes getting photos… so remember stay away from cliff edges, watch out for safety signs and just err on the side of caution whenever possible.

After all, as I’ve said many times – better safe than sorry.

Have Any More Travel Safety Tips to Add?

Let me know in the comments!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

10 Travel Safety Tips to Help You Stay Safe Abroad

Staying safe on the road is a top concern for….well, everyone. No one wants to get scammed, hurt, or sick on the road. No one wants to get robbed.

And, when you are going somewhere you have never been before, it’s normal be cautious. You don’t know what to expect or how to play it safe. There’s a lot of unknowns.

While every country in the world is different, there’s some standard practices and common rules you can use to stay safe when you travel. Some of these rules are common sense, some were sadly learned from first hand experience!

Here are my 10 safety tips to ensure everything goes smoothly when you travel:

Table of Contents

1. Learn about common scams

2. buy travel insurance, 3. know what your insurance will and will not do, 4. save your emergency contacts, 5. prepare a google map, 6. download the safe traveler app, 7. follow embassies on twitter, 8. separate your cash and cards, 9. ask locals for advice, 10. don’t share too much information.

While scams are rare, they are out there, waiting for unwitting travelers to stumble into them. Most will only cost you a few bucks and a bit of embarrassment, but others can fleece you. Be sure to read up on your destination to see if there are any common scams to be aware of.

On my first trip to Thailand I was scammed multiple times on my first day. It was just a few bucks, fortunately, but it was still awkward and unpleasant. Since that trip, I’ve always made sure to be vigilant and research scams before I travel.

Common travel scams include taxis not using their meter because it’s “broken,” people trying to rope you into signing a petition (and then demanding a donation), or people selling fake (or overpriced) tickets to attractions.

Review this list of common scams before you go so that you’re ready for whatever is thrown your way.

One of the very first things I do once I book a trip is buy travel insurance . I know, it’s not a fun part of travel planning and it’s a boring thing to read (and write) about. But buying insurance early guarantees I’m covered in case I need to cancel my trip, if my flight is canceled or delayed, and much more.

For just over a dollar per day you get peace of mind, knowing that, should something go wrong, you won’t have to deal with it (or pay for it) alone.

I never leave home without travel insurance. You shouldn’t either.

If you’re on a budget, SafetyWing is my go-to company for affordable plans.

If you’re really concerned and want someone to call in an emergency, check out Medjet .

Medjet has a security response membership, MedjetHorizon, with 24/7 security teams ready to help (and extract you if necessary). It can also get you moved home if you’re hospitalized. Most travel insurance plans just move you to the nearest hospital, but Medjet will get you to your preferred facility in your home country, no questions asked.

If you want to learn more, you can read my complete review of Medjet here .

You can get a Medjet quote here (there are super affordable short-term and annual memberships).

For more information on travel insurance, here’s a list of all my recommended travel insurance companies .

Before you leave home, read over your insurance policy again. Every company is different, so it’s good to know exactly what is and is not covered.

For example, many travelers think that if they break their leg abroad, their insurance company’s medical evacuation benefits will get them home. That’s not always the case. Chances are, they will only get you to the “nearest acceptable facility” and make sure that you’re treated there. You’ll then be on your own to get home.

For security threats and natural disasters, insurance companies generally require what’s called a “hard trigger” before they can or will assist you. That means the government must declare an emergency or evacuation order. If that doesn’t happen, you will be expected to get home yourself, even if the situation is dire (and even if it costs thousands of dollars).

That’s why I always suggest Medjet to travelers who want to be sure they get home no matter what. It’s the ultimate in security and crisis response. There’s a 24/7 crisis line that can respond to a wider range of safety threats without the need for a hard trigger.

Once you have travel insurance, save the contact number in your phone. Save the emergency contact email in your inbox too. That way, you can find it quickly if you have a question or need assistance.

If you think you might not have Wi-Fi or cell phone service during your trip, write the number down in your phone on a notes app just to be safe. You might also want to keep a physical copy of both in your wallet too, just in case something happens to your phone.

Be sure to also email yourself copies of all your important documents, such as your passport and license, in case you lose your wallet. Having printed copies of them isn’t a bad idea either.

Once you’ve booked your accommodation, save it on Google Maps. That way, you can find your accommodation should you get lost and need to show the address to a driver. You might want to also take a physical business card from your accommodation once you arrive (it will have the address and contact info on it, which might come in handy).

Additionally, save other important destinations on your Google Map, such as the nearest hospital, pharmacy, grocery store, and embassy/consulate. If you feel comfortable doing so with a trusted person at home, you can also share your location through Google Maps. For many people, especially solo travelers, this provides peace of mind, knowing that someone in the world knows their whereabouts.

Once you’ve decided where to go (and if you’re from the US), sign up for the S.T.E.P. program . It alerts local embassies that you’re in the area in case a situation arises. Next, download the State Department’s Safe Traveler app . You just punch in the destinations you want to visit, and it will send push alerts to your smartphone regarding any important security concerns. That way, you’ll be forewarned should anything happen that you should be aware of.

If you use Twitter, follow your country’s embassy in the destination country. It will not only mention important local events and holidays but, should a situation arise, also publish updates and information there. Make sure you turn your notifications on so you don’t miss anything important.

Following local news companies on twitter is also a good idea, especially if there is a local english-speaking website that has a Twitter account. That way, you definitely won’t miss any important happenings.

When traveling, don’t keep all your cash and cards in one place. Keep some in your wallet, some in your day bag, and some in your accommodation. That way, if you lose your wallet or if your bag is stolen you still have cash and cards to fall back on.

It’s not uncommon for banks to cancel or put a hold on a credit card while you’re abroad either, so bring more than one just to be safe.

When you check into a hotel or Airbnb, ask if they have any safety advice to share. Are there neighborhoods worth avoiding? Are there any scams they think you might encounter? Maybe some areas are safe during the day but not at night. Ask for input from locals; they’re in the best position to help.

That said, it never hurts to get a second opinion. Some locals might consider an area unsafe, while others don’t. Be sure to shop around for advice so you can avoid any biases. Travel is subjective, after all, so the more opinions you can get, the better.

If you’re posting on social media, don’t post in real time. Wait a couple hours and then post. That way, would-be criminals can’t use that information to get your location and rob you or stalk you (this is especially important for solo female travelers).

Moreover, don’t give away too much info to random strangers. Avoid sharing your hotel name, and, if possible, avoiding telling people it’s your first time visiting the city/country as they may use that as an invitation to try and rip you off.

It may seem like the world is a dangerous place, with trouble lurking around every corner, but that’s only because fear sells. I’ve been traveling for over 15 years, and 99% of the time, things go smoothly.

But for the remaining 1% of experiences, it’s best to be prepared . By arming yourself with knowledge before you go and ensuring you have comprehensive insurance and safety coverage , you’ll be able to travel with confidence, knowing that you’re ready for whatever the road throws your way.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

GET YOUR  FREE TRAVEL STARTER KIT

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

10 ways to stay safe no matter where you’re traveling

Sponsored by

Mar 31, 2023 • 4 min read

Safety and adventure aren’t mutually exclusive. These 10 tips can help you avoid almost any setback © AnemStyle / Shutterstock

Travel always involves a bit of uncertainty. And there will always be location-specific warnings to observe depending on where you’re going. The good news is there are several proven precautions you can take ahead of time and while traveling to stay safe and navigate any unexpected catastrophes when away from home.

Here are 10 tried-and-true methods to dodge danger and maximize your enjoyment of practically any destination. Remember, safety and adventure aren’t mutually exclusive. And feeling anxious is totally natural. Either way, you got this!

Before you leave

• Check local advisories. Traveling to Iowa comes with a different set of risks than, say, traveling to Africa. The same is true when traveling to Europe, Latin America, Asia, or to any specific country within every continent, let alone specific regions that demand their own precautions. For the latest information, if you’re traveling from the US check the State Dept website , as well as local news reports, and travel guides to your specific destination.
• Get your shots (where needed). Not every location demands special immunizations before visiting. But many of them do, especially less developed countries and continents. What’s more, the pandemic made things a lot more complicated, as certain countries drop or maintain proof of vaccination before entering. Either way, if you’re in the US check with the CDC for any destination-specific shots you might need before boarding your flight.
• Share your plans with emergency contacts. Doing so can be a simple but life-saving act, especially when traveling off-grid, on high adventure trips, or in more dangerous destinations. Tell your friends and loved ones when and where you’re going, what you’re doing, where you’re staying, how you’re traveling, and how they can get in touch with you should anything come up.

• Know common scams. In many countries, individuals might feign assistance and incessantly follow you, only to later demand payment for their unsolicited help. Others might wow you with offers that are too good to be true, work in teams to distract you and take your goods, or worse. Many travel advisories will include this information, but some extra online searches can go a long way to expose and help you avoid any harm to your wallet and/or your safety.
• Get travel insurance. If you really want to cover your bases while abroad, you’ll want travel insurance, such as that offered by Seven Corners . Doing so can help recoup your money if you need to cancel a trip (or your flight is delayed) and cover the cost of treating medical emergencies while traveling, including care at foreign hospitals and medical evacuation, lost bags, early returns home, and many other unexpected mishaps.

While traveling

• Know your limits. Feeling nervous before traveling somewhere new is normal. But if you’re feeling downright sick about your plans, you’ve probably bitten off more than you can chew. The best pre-test of an experience is whether you’re still excited about it, even if it’s something you’ve never done before. After you arrive, however, be sure to listen to your mind and body and back out of anything you’re not comfortable with.
• Eat and drink like your life depends on it. This is especially true on high adventure trips. Dehydration is easily preventable but amazingly one of the leading causes of illness while traveling abroad. So, drink more water than you think, plan for regular bathroom breaks, and stay away from street vendors unless you’re certain they’re free from food poison.

• Secure your valuables. It’s always important to protect your personal property, be it in parked rental cars, beach bags, or wallets and phones in your usually secure pockets. Again, travel advisories will often alert you to higher areas of petty theft but be on the extra lookout when traveling someplace new.
• Avoid getting too close to wildlife (or the edge of a cliff). Many years ago, an American college student was sadly (but unsurprisingly) eaten by a lion after sticking her head out of a car window while at Lion Park in Johannesburg, South Africa. Others become seriously sick after licking psychedelic toads in Sonora. And far too many tourists have fallen to their deaths while snapping selfies at the ends of a cliff. Don’t do it. No photo is worth your life or good health.
• Stay alert. Be on the lookout. If you’re not sure about something, step inside a public building, follow the crowd, and trust your gut, especially if you find yourself in unfamiliar surroundings or cultures. Although you may be tempted to “travel like a local,” don’t do it. You’re probably not as experienced as they are and that’s okay. Instead, travel like a respectful tourist and accept that you don’t know everything. Doing so will keep you safe.

Despite what the news will sometimes have you believe, the world is a safer than it has ever been. Yes, there are risks. But when traveling, these 10 tips can help you avoid almost any setback. Bon voyage!

Sponsored by Seven Corners

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

This story was crafted collaboratively between Seven Corners and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

With sponsored content, both Lonely Planet and our brand partners have specific responsibilities:

Brand partner

Determines the concept, provides briefing, research material, and may provide feedback.

Lonely Planet

We provide expertise, firsthand insights, and verify with third-party sources when needed.

Explore related stories

Aug 5, 2024 • 7 min read

Adrenaline-pumping activities, pristine beaches, dense rainforests, Costa Rica has it all. Here's what you need to know before you go.

May 23, 2024 • 4 min read

Sep 8, 2024 • 5 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 5 min read

Sep 7, 2024 • 14 min read

Sep 7, 2024 • 12 min read

Sep 7, 2024 • 9 min read

90+ Safe Travels Messages to Wish Bon Voyage

Simple and Heartfelt Safe Travels Messages

Sometimes, the simplest wishes pack the biggest punch. A few heartfelt words can be a comforting blanket for your globe-trotting friends and family. So, grab these simple journey wishes and send some love sprinkled with safe travel blessings their way!

• ✈️ Wishing you a smooth journey and safe travels! 🌟
• May your path be free of troubles and full of adventure. Safe travels!
• Journey forth and conquer, but most importantly, stay safe!
• ✨ May your travels be as wonderful and safe as you are!
• Sending positive vibes and safe travel blessings for your journey. 🍀
• May you be safe and sound in every step of your journey.
• Bon voyage! May your trip be free from harm and full of excitement.
• 🛫 Safe travels! Looking forward to your safe return. 🏡
• Keep it simple, keep it fun, keep it safe on your travels!
• As you explore the world, may safety be your loyal companion.
• Safe journey! May every mile bring a smile. 😊✨
• Pack your best experiences along with your essentials! Stay safe.
• Safety first, adventure next! Here's to a secure voyage!
• May your trip sparkle with joy and be free from danger. ✨🚢
• Every mile you travel, may it be wrapped in safety.
• Hoping you find beauty in every place and safety on every road. 🌐
• Cheers to safe travel blessings and a journey filled with memories to cherish!
• 🌈 May your skies be clear and your roads safe. Bon voyage!
• As you set sail on your journey, stay safe and bask in the amazing experiences.
• Safe travels! May you have a hassle-free trip from start to finish.

May the simplest of journeys bring you the richest of experiences and a safe return home.

Personalized Safe Travels Messages for Friends

Heading out on a new adventure? There's no better send-off than a sweet and personalized message to your friends. Let them know you're thinking of them with these copy-and-paste wishes!

• "Keep safe, stay awesome, and bring back amazing stories! 🌟"
• "May your journey be free from stress and bring you home safely. Safe travels!"
• "Hey there, world traveler. Go on and conquer those miles safely! 🌍✈"
• "Adventure is out there—so is safety! Stay cautious on your globetrotting! 🗺️❤️"
• "Not all who wander are lost, but if you do, use GPS! Safe travels, my friend! 📍😉"
• "Pack your best memories and a safety kit. Enjoy every moment! 🧳😊"
• "Wishing you smooth flights and scenic routes. Take care on your epic journey! ✈️🏞️"
• "Travel far and wide, but always remember to travel safe. Thinking of you! 🚀🌟"
• "Capture moments, take care, and come back with life-changing experiences! 📸✨"
• "More than sightseeing, I'm wishing you insight and safe travels. 🌅💭"
• "Friend, may your travels be as rewarding as our friendship—safe journey! 🌟👫"
• "Cheers to passport stamps and keeping safe. Bon Voyage! 🍹🛂"
• "Your safety means the world to all of us—stay alert on your adventure! 🌎💕"
• "Counting down to your safe return and all the stories that come with it! 🗓️💬"
• "Sending you off with love and a gentle reminder to prioritize your safety! 💌🔐"
• "Safe travels, buddy! Remember, better safe than sorry. 🤞✨"
• "Embark on this journey with joy and caution in equal measure. 🎉🛡️"
• "Here’s to a trip as safe and amazing as our friendship. Miss you already! 🤗🛫"
• "Just like you look out for us, look out for yourself out there. Safe travels! 🛡️👀"
• "May your journey be safe and your experiences vast. Take lots of pics for me! 📷🚢"

Enjoy every step of the way and keep safety as your travel buddy!

Warm Safe Travels Messages for Family Members

Heading out to see the world or even just the next state over brings up all the feels, right? You gotta make sure your tribe knows you're tucked tight in your heart for the whole ride. So, here are twenty no-sweat, copy-paste perfect messages to send to your fam before they jet off.

• "Wheels up, hearts full! Have a blessed journey, family. 🛫💖"
• "Hug in a text! Keep safe, travel well, come back even better. ❤️"
• "May your journey be free from stress and bring you home safely. 🙏✈️"
• "Packing my love for you in that suitcase. Have a safe trip! 🧳💛"
• "Family is never apart, maybe in distance, but never in heart. Safe travels! 🌍❤️"
• "Sending blessings for your travel. May your path be safe and your bags not over the weight limit! 😉✨"
• "Off you go into the world, family! Secure journey thoughts are being sent your way. 🌐🔒"
• "As you travel, remember: Home is wherever family's love is waiting. Stay safe! 🏠💕"
• "May every mile bring a smile. Safe journeys, my loved ones! 🛣️😊"
• "Keep calm and travel on! Can't wait to hear all the stories. 🚀👂"
• "Adventure awaits! Go on safely and bring back sunsets and smiles. 🌅😁"
• "Bon voyage, dear family! May angels fly with you. 😇✨"
• "Go discover, learn, and love. Just don’t forget to come back to us. Safe travels! 🌟💓"
• "The world's big, our love’s bigger. Secure travels, family! 🌎❤️"
• "Make memories we’ll all treasure. Have a blissful and safe trip! 💼🌟"
• "May your journey be sprinkled with fun and blessed with safety. 🎉🛡️"
• "Every road you take, let it lead you safely back home to us. 🛤️🏡"
• "Counting the days until you’re back. Until then, safe and happy travels! ⏳😊"
• "There’s no family like ours, no trip too long. Secure your bags and your memories! 🧳🤗"
• "A family that travels together, stays together in spirit. Have the safest travels! 👨👩👧👦✨" Some sweet, some funny, all bursting with the whole 'safe trip' vibe, right? Go ahead, hit send, make them smile before they even buckle up.

Wishing You a Safe Flight Messages

Sending off someone special and want to wish them a safe flight? Here’s how you can inject your best vibes into those departure texts. Fasten your seatbelts, ‘cause you're about to become the most thoughtful person ever, no boarding pass needed!

• "🛫 Wishing you safe skies and a smooth landing. Bon voyage!"
• "Hope you fly high and safe! Catch you on the flip side. ✈️"
• "Sending you my prayers for a safe flight . Can't wait to hear about your adventures!"
• "🌤 Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the journey through the clouds!"
• "Keep your flight wishes on the radar, and text me when you land!"
• "Ready for takeoff? Remember, safe skies and calm vibes. You got this!"
• "May the flight be as wonderful as you are! Looking forward to your return."
• "Got your passport to safety right here in my thoughts. Have a great flight!"
• "Hope your flight is as trouble-free as an empty security line!"
• "🛬 Land safe, land happy, land relaxed. See you soon!"
• "Sending you safe skies prayers . May your journey be as incredible as you are!"
• "Hey, got a window seat? Snap those clouds and remember, safe flight !"
• "Flight mode on, worries off. Have a safe trip across the sky!"
• "Buckle up for the next chapter. Wishing you a peaceful journey up high!"
• "May your flight be as stress-free as a feather floating in the breeze."
• "Keep calm and travel on. Your safety is in my thoughts!"
• "Let the air be your highway and safety your travel buddy. Fly well!"
• "Can't wait to hear your flight tales ! Stay safe and soar high."
• "Trusting the pilot with your holiday is one thing, but my safe flight wishes are with you, too!"
• "Fly like an eagle, safe and regal. Can't wait to celebrate your safe arrival!"

May these sentiments wing their way to you and wrap you in comfort as you navigate the skies.

Safe Journey Prayers and Blessings Messages

Heading out on a journey? 🛫 You're probably filled with that exciting buzz - a blend of nervousness and anticipation. Sure, you've got your packing checklist down, but how about a dose of good vibes and protection prayers for the road? Here are 20 little blessings you can send to remind your peeps you’re sending good juju their way.

• 🙏 May your journey be free from stress and bring you home safely. Safe travels!
• Sending prayers for your safe journey, may angels fly with you and guard you with each mile.
• 💫 Wishing you serenity on your travels and a trip filled with beautiful discoveries.
• May your path be smooth and your burdens light. Safe travels, my friend!
• As you journey to beautiful places, may your travels be just as lovely!
• Let each mile bring you closer to joy and peace. Safe journey blessings!
• Praying that your journey is touched by grace and filled with memories to treasure. 🌟
• 🌄 May each sunrise hold more promise for you, and may your sunset bring you peace until your safe return.
• Safe journey! Remember that home is always in your heart, awaiting your return.
• May your flights be smooth and your roads be clear. Here’s to safe travels and happy returns!
• Wishing you joy in the journey and a safe return home.
• 🙌 Sending my love and prayers your way for a travel filled with comfort and joy.
• On the road of life, it's not where you go, it’s who you travel alongside. Have a blessed journey!
• Buckle up for safety, and let your heart be your guide. Travel with blessings!
• Bon voyage! May your journey be as enchanting as the destinations you seek.
• Close your eyes and feel the love that's in the air. Prayers of safety accompany you everywhere.
• 🧳 May your journey be eye-opening! May you be safe. May you be happy.
• Embark with joy, arrive with grace, return with stories to tell. Safe travels!
• May every step of this journey bring you closer to your dreams. Blessed be your travels.
• Sending a bouquet of good vibes and well wishes for your journey – may it be bright and smooth.

Ah, doesn't that feel like a warm hug for the road? Safe travels, dear traveler – may your journey be as lovely as a well-written story.

The best things in life are free.

And so is our instagram pod., adventurous safe travels messages for explorers.

Got a friend who's more Indiana Jones than couch potato? Someone who's always chasing the next adrenaline rush? Well, buckle up, because we've got the perfect well-wishes to send them off on their latest escapade. These messages blend the perfect mix of care and adventure, encouraging them to seize the day without forgetting to stay safe. 🏞️✨

• 🗺️ Bon voyage, brave soul! May your travels be as grand and epic as the stories you'll tell.
• 🧗♂️ Keep climbing those mountains and crossing those rivers! Just remember to be safe, explorer.
• ⛵ As you set sail on your new adventure, my best wishes are with you. Stay safe!
• 🌄 May your journey be extraordinary and your path safe. Adventure is out there!
• 🌵 Navigate the deserts and trek through the forests, but always keep your well-being in mind.
• 🌍 Wear that backpack with pride, adventurer. Stay smart, stay safe!
• 🏜️ Chase those horizons, but remember, returning home safe is the greatest victory.
• 🚀 To infinity and beyond! Just make sure you've packed your common sense for the trip.
• 🧭 May you find the adventure you seek and a safe route home.
• 🌲 Through every forest and over every hill, may well-being be your constant companion.
• 🛶 As you paddle through life’s torrents, don't forget your life jacket of caution.
• 🚵 Gear up for an adrenaline-filled journey, but safety first—helmets and good judgment!
• 🏔️ Conquer those peaks safely, my friend, and may the views be ever in your favor.
• 🐪 Across exotic lands and ancient sands, travel boldly but wisely.
• 🌟 Ride like the wind, explorer! But hey, keep it safe and sound, will ya?
• 🏕️ May your nights under the stars be serene and your travels free of trouble.
• ⛺ Treasure every moment of freedom, but remember that safety is the real treasure.
• 🧡 Embark on this journey with an open heart and a mindful spirit. Stay safe!
• 🌺 Spread your wings and fly, but keep an eye on the weather and a foot on solid ground.
• 🚲 Speed through new terrain on two wheels, but protect your noggin—wear a helmet! Adventure seekers, as you venture into the unknown, remember, the line between danger and thrill is as thin as a knife-edge. Stay sharp, stay safe, and come back with stories that'll have us on the edge of our seats! 🌟👀

Safe Trip Back Home Messages

When someone special is heading back home, it’s like a piece of your heart is taking a journey. Tell them to go steady and hold that piece tight with a safe trip message!

• Hey there! Wishing you a safe trip back home . 🏠 Can't wait to catch up on all your adventures!
• Buckle up, buttercup! May your trip be as fabulous as you are. Safe travels!
• Keep calm and travel safe. Can't wait to welcome you back to your favorite place—home sweet home! 🏡❤️.
• Wishing you a smooth and serene journey. 🕊️ See you back at the nest soon!
• May your return be just as amazing as your departure. Safe travels to my favorite explorer!
• Travel day? More like glide-day! Hoping your trip home is smoother than a jar of Skippy. 🍯
• Bon voyage on your way back ! Remember, home's not going anywhere – it's waiting with open arms. 🤗
• From A to B without a flea. That's how I hope your journey will be!
• To the best suitcase packer I know: may your trip be as organized and stress-free as your luggage. Safe travels!
• Homecoming rules: 1. Travel safe. 2. Bring stories. See you soon! 🛣️👀
• Not all who wander are lost, but it sure is nice to come home. Easy travels!
• Keep the selfies coming until you're safely back in the land of familiar faces. 📸
• As you journey home, may every mile be a memory and every road take you closer to a warm welcome!
• Just like in the movies, can't wait for the part where the hero comes home. Travel safe!
• Wishing your flight wings as strong as our friendship! Fly safe! ✈️❤️
• Remember, 'home' is not just a place it’s where your heart finds peace. Bon voyage !
• Go forth and conquer the return journey like you own it! Then, rest up at home.
• Channel your inner GPS: You know the way back home by heart! Safe return .
• May your journey home be just as enriching as the time you spent away. 🌟
• Catch flights and feelings – of excitement to be coming back home! Safe trip!

May the road rise up to meet you, and may the wind be ever in your favor as you find your way back home.

Business Trip Safe Travels Messages

Headed to close that deal or shake some hands? Make sure your briefcase is packed with confidence and your itinerary includes a splash of good fortune. We've drafted some top-notch safe travels messages that you can shoot off to your colleagues or business buddies!

• 📈 "May your ventures be fruitful and your travels trouble-free. Stay safe!"
• 🛫 "Wishing you a smooth flight and successful meetings ahead!"
• 💼 "Rock that presentation! Sending you trip protection vibes your way."
• ✈️ "Your talents are going global! Keep safe and knock 'em dead."
• 🌟 "May every connection lead to new opportunities. Journey safely!"
• 🛏️ "Rest easy and slay the business game. Safe travels!"
• 📅 "Conquer each day of your trip with success and safety."
• 🔄 "Look sharp, network smarter, and travel safely."
• 🍀 "Sending you messages of journey protection and great fortune."
• 💻 "Here's to secure connections – both in WiFi and your meetings. Safe travels!"
• 🚖 "Travel safe and may the traffic lights of opportunity always be green."
• 🤝 "May your handshakes be firm and your trip secure."
• 🍽️ "Dine with intent, pitch with confidence, and have a safe trip."
• 🎯 "Target your goals and achieve them safely. Bon voyage!"
• 🧳 "Pack your best suit and your courage. Safe travels on your business quest."
• 🌐 "To new markets, new faces, and safe places!"
• 🔒 "Secure those deals as tightly as your journey protection. Safe travels!"
• 📚 "May you learn, grow, and travel securely on your business journey."
• 🔌 "Stay charged and focused. Safe travels and successful networking!"
• 📍 "Navigate the business world and your travels with precision and safety."

Safety and success – a duet that's music to the ears of every business traveler. Keep these messages handy for when someone you know needs that extra boost before their big trip.

Bon Voyage and Good Luck Messages

Embarking on a new journey? Here's a sprinkle of wanderlust luck and bon voyage charm to help kickstart that great adventure. Grab one of these messages and sling it to your globe-trotting friends like a pro-good-luck-charm-flinger.

• Safe travels! May your journey be free from stress and bring you home safely. 🍀
• Bon voyage, my friend! I'm wishing you a journey as fabulous as you are!
• Buckle up for the adventure! Good luck, and keep your eyes on the horizon! 🌅
• May your journey be eye-opening! Discover new places and come back even more enlightened.
• Journey mercies, pal! Can't wait to hear all the stories you'll tell. 📚
• Wishing you a safe and thrilling experience! Enjoy every moment and take tons of pics!
• Here's to smooth skies and calming seas. Have an awesome trip! 🚢✈️
• Cheers to new memories! Have a safe trip and remember: what happens around the globe stays... in our chat.
• I hope your journey is as smooth as silk and as thrilling as a rollercoaster! Safe travels.
• Off to see the world, huh? Treat it well and come back safe. 🌍🏡
• Sending positive vibes your way for a journey filled with fun and joy. Bon voyage! ✨
• Keep calm and travel on! Wishing you an unforgettable journey and a safe return.
• May your luggage stay light, and your spirits stay high. Safe travels and good luck! 🎒
• To uncharted territories and beyond! Good luck and travel safe, my friend.
• Pack your best smile and head toward adventure! Have a wonderful trip. 😃
• Wishing you a safe passage and experiences so good they make epic stories. 📖
• May your travels bring you happiness, new friends, and unforgettable encounters.
• Bon voyage! May fortune favor your travels and bring you safely back to us.
• Sending you off with best wishes and the hope of seeing you back safe and sound. 🙏
• Go find new roads, friend! Just make sure to come back down ours. Safe travels! Travel light, explore with a heart wide open, and let the world show you its wonders. Can't wait for the reunion!

Safe Travels Messages to Show You Care

When someone you know is zipping off on a new adventure or just heading back home, hitting them with a "stay safe" feels about as warm as an ice cube in your pocket. Let's level up the wish-game with safe travels messages that show you're genuinely looking out for them.

• ✈️ May your journey be as fabulous as you are! Remember, the seatbelt is a hug from the airplane saying stay safe.
• 🚘 Keep your eyes on the road and your heart on the memories you'll be making, safe travels!
• 🌍 Every mile you travel, just imagine me cheering you on! Stay safe, stay awesome!
• 🚢 As you sail away, may your journey be smoother than fresh-churned butter. Bon voyage!
• 🚌 May your travels be as worry-free as a day without an alarm clock!
• 👟 Step safe, my friend. Whether you're hopping on a plane or just walking new streets, I care.
• 🛤️ Think of every safe mile as a note in a love song from me to you.
• 🎒 Journey on with peace in your pocket and safety in your step.
• 🌄 Wishing you a travel experience as sunny as your smile - stay safe!
• 🌐 Sending safe vibes across the miles. Your well-being is my top priority!
• 🌅 Here's to safe travels and sunsets that wait to wave hello!
• 🔐 I'm locking in all my well-wishes for your safe travels.
• 💺 May your travels be as comfy as your favorite hoodie. Big care-hugs coming your way!
• 🧳 Stuff your luggage with good times and bring back memories, not scrapes. Be safe!
• 🌟 As you venture off, remember safety first makes you a star traveler in my book.
• 🛵 Ride safe, explore safe, and always remember to wear your invisible crown of safety.
• ✨ Throw your cares to the wind but pack your safety in your suitcase!
• 🛣️ Enjoy every new highway and byway but remember, the safe way is the best way.
• 🏖️ May each grain of sand you walk on be a soft reminder to take care of yourself.
• 🏔️ Every mountain you climb, do so with safety. You're precious, buddy!

Life's a wild ride, and it's way better knowing your peeps are safe and sound. So when you send these messages, know you're packing their bags with invisible padding. Keep it real, keep it caring, and may their journey be as secure as Fort Knox.

Humorous Safe Travels Messages for a Smile

Setting off on a journey should be as fun as sliding down a rainbow! 🌈 We've whipped up some humorous safe travels messages that are sure to tickle your funny bone and send off your pals with a giggle. Light-hearted and sure to bring a smile, these messages add a bit of humor to travel safety. Here are 20 quips ready for takeoff:

• "May your luggage stay safe and your selfies be many. Safe travels! 🛄📸"
• "Here's to hoping your trip is as problem-free as a classroom on the last day of school. Bon voyage! 🎉"
• "Don't make the bedbugs bite – especially if you're staying at a hostel. Safe travels! 😴🐜"
• "Wishing you a journey so smooth, you could do yoga in the aisle. Namaste and safe travels! 🧘✈️"
• "Travel safe and don't do anything I wouldn't enjoy doing vicariously through your social media posts. 😜📱"
• "Pack your common sense and your charger – lose either one, and you're in for an adventure. Travel safe! 🔌🧠"
• "Remember, what happens in [destination] stays on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, so travel safe! 😉🌐"
• "May your travels be as glitch-free as an old video game console. Keep blowing on that cartridge and go have fun! 🕹️💨"
• "Here's to you not ending up on a reality show about airport disasters. Have a safe trip! 📺✈️"
• "Buckle up! May your trip have more ups than a kangaroo and fewer downs than a basement. Safe travels! 🦘🚪"
• "Hope you find what you're searching for out there, and it's not just Wi-Fi. Safe travels! 🔍📶"
• "Like a cat with nine lives, may you have nine times the fun with none of the danger. Happy trails! 😺🍀"
• "Don't forget to pack your sense of humor. You're going to need it. Safe travels, my friend! 😂🧳"
• "Safe travels! I'll be here patiently waiting for my souvenir... No pressure. 😉🎁"
• "May your flight attendants be kind and your seat mate not a snorer. Bon voyage! 😌✈️"
• "May your suitcase come out first and your trip be Instagrammably perfect. Safe traveling! 🛄💖"
• "Keep an eye on your wallet, your passport, and the shifty guy eying your snack. Safe travels! 👀🍪"
• "Here's to surviving the TSA pat-down with your dignity intact. Safe journeys, my friend! 🛃🙏"
• "Don't worry about the turbulence – it's just the Earth's way of saying 'Hi!' Have a safe flight! 🌍✋"
• "Wishing you a trip so good, even your mama's cooking can't compete. Travel safe! 🍳🌏"

Traveling is no tiny feat – unless you're an ant or something. But for humans, a sprinkle of humor goes a long way. So go ahead, send out those chuckles and wish someone a wonderfully wacky journey. Because as they say, laughter is the best travel companion. Safe travels! 🌟😄

Safe Travels Messages for Your Significant Other

Your boo is jetting off and you've got that queasy feeling in your tummy. Worry not! I've got you covered with sweet nothings to text them so they know they're cherished from takeoff to touchdown. Encapsulate your blessings for flyer's safety or drop a well-traveling quote that’ll stick with your partner until they’re back in your arms.

• "Fly safe, love. Can't wait to have you back in my arms! 😘✈️"
• "Sending you my love on the journey ahead – may it be as wonderful as you are. 💖"
• "Wishing you skies as calm and beautiful as your spirit. Fly safe, my dear. 🌈✈️"
• "Pack my love with your luggage – it’s the best travel companion you’ll need. Have a safe trip!💼❤️"
• "Buckle up, buttercup! May your flight be as smooth as our love is strong. 💑✈️"
• "Remember to find joy in the journey and to text me when you land! Safe travels, my love. 📱💕"
• "Take on this adventure with the same passion you bring to our relationship. Stay safe, fly high! 🔥✈️"
• "Travel safe, my heart! Looking forward to your stories – and your safe return. 🧳❤️"
• "Fly with angels, land with grace. I'll be here, missing your face. 😇🛬"
• "Every mile apart is temporary; my love travels with you endlessly. 💏✨"
• "Counting down the minutes until you're back, safe and sound. Bon voyage, my love! ⏳✨"
• "Here's to a safe flight and to the next chapter in your amazing story. 📖✈️"
• "Your safety means the world to me – promise to be careful out there. 🌎💕"
• "May your journey be as enchanting as our time together. Safe travels, my treasure. 🏰💘"
• "Keep my kisses with you as you soar through the skies. Have a safe flight, darling. 💋✈️"
• "Here's a virtual hug until I can hold you again. Travel safely, my one and only. 🤗🛫"
• "May your travels bring joy and your return bring happiness. Take care, sweetheart. 😊🔄"
• "Look out the window and know I'm looking up at the same sky, wishing you safe travels. 🌌✈️"
• "May every mile you travel bring you closer to joy, and keep you safe until you're back in my arms. 🛩️💞"
• "You're my favorite adventure. Fly safe and come home to me soon. ❤️🗺️" No matter the distance, reminding your significant other of your unwavering love and care is a power move. Safe travels to your beloved!

Inspirational Words for a Safe Journey Messages

Setting off on a journey is like dipping your toes in a sea of possibilities. It's excitement mixed with a hint of the unknown. Let's pack those bags with peaceful journey sentiments and sprinkle a travel peace of mind affirmations for an amazing send-off. Bon voyage, beautiful souls! 🛫✨

• "May every mile bring a smile to your face. Safe travels!" 🗺😊
• "Let the journey invigorate your soul, peaceful travels!" 🌿✈️
• "Embrace the adventure that awaits. Journey on in peace!" 🏞️☮️
• "Wishing you beautiful experiences and memories to treasure. Safe journey!" 💼🌟
• "May your travels be as serene as a gentle stream." 🌊🙏
• "As you wander, may tranquility be your companion." 🧳💫
• "Wishing you joy in every step of your journey." 👣😄
• "Let the road rise up to meet you and the wind be always at your back." 🛤️💨
• "Travel safe, eat well, and return rejuvenated." 🍽️👋
• "Hope your journey is filled with the sense of peace you're looking for." 🤍✨
• "Keep calm and travel on with a heart full of peace." 💟🚀
• "May your path be clear and your worries light." 🧭💭
• "Sending you off with wishes of harmony on your trip." 🎶✨
• "Here’s to safe travels and experiences as rich as the deepest sea." 🌊🌈
• "As you trot the globe, may tranquility be your constant travel buddy." 🌍✌️
• "Float like a cloud, free from the bustle—travel peacefully." ☁️🌄
• "May the sunlight of joy always guide your way." 🌞🧭
• "Set sail on your adventure with a heart brimming with peace." ⛵️💖
• "Wrap yourself in the comfort of knowing all will be well on your journey." 🧣😌
• "Embark on this trip with the peace you've packed in every suitcase!" 🛍️🕊️

May your travels resonate with the joy and peace of a well-composed symphony. Safe travels and be inspired every step of the way!

Safe Travels Messages for Someone's First Trip

Embarking on your first journey can be a mix of jitters and joy. Here's a bunch of words drenched in encouragement and well-traveling wishes for first-timers!

• 🛫 Have a fantastic first flight! Remember, every journey starts with a single step... or a take-off!
• 🌟 Here's to the start of something new and exciting! Safe travels on your first journey!
• Pack your bags with excitement and your heart with dreams! Have a safe and memorable trip!
• May your first trip be just the beginning of many more adventures. Bon voyage!
• 🚢 As you set sail on your first voyage, may the winds of joy guide your way!
• Safe travels to you on this maiden voyage. May it exceed all your expectations!
• 🌍 To new discoveries and incredible experiences! Wishing you a thrilling first journey!
• May your curiosity be your compass and excitement your map. Have a fabulous first trip!
• 🏞️ Embrace the unfamiliar with open arms and an adventurous spirit. Safe travels!
• The world is a book and your first journey is the first page. Write a great story!
• Get ready to create unforgettable memories on your first adventure. Safe travels and have fun!
• May your first trip be free of delays and full of discovery. Safe travels, my friend!
• 🌄 Your first journey is a canvas. Color it with joy, laughter, and lots of selfies!
• Here's to smooth flights, friendly locals, and cozy accommodations. Enjoy your first trip!
• As you embark on this first journey, may every moment be as special as you hoped for.
• Packing my best wishes alongside your travel essentials. Have a safe and happy first trip!
• 🚀 Take the leap into the unknown with confidence. Wishing you a wonderfully safe first journey!
• Remember, not all who wander are lost. May your first journey be enlightening and safe!
• 🛄 May every mile bring a smile and every destination be worth the trip. Bon voyage!
• Go where you feel most alive! Cheers to new adventures and a safe first journey!

Be brave, be bold, and most importantly, have the time of your life on your first trip!

Comforting Safe Travels Messages During Turbulent Times

Nobody likes turbulence, either in the sky or in the soul, am I right? During uncertain times, a little message of support can go a long way. Here are 20 comforting safe travels messages that are like a cozy blanket for the soul.

• "Stay safe and let your worries fly away! ✈️🛡️"
• "Hoping your journey is as stress-free as a beach vacation. 🌴✌️"
• "Sending you vibes of peace for your travels. 🌈✨"
• "May your path be clear and your journey be smooth. 😌🛣️"
• "Keep calm and travel strong. We’ve got your back! 🤗🎒"
• "Here’s to a safeguarded journey and happy thoughts! 🤞❤️"
• "Don’t let the bumps scare you! Safe travels, my friend. 💪✨"
• "Like a sturdy ship, may you navigate smoothly through any storms. ⛵️🌊"
• "Hugs from afar! May your travels be trouble-free. 🤗🌐"
• "Wrap yourself in our love and have a safe trip! 😊💖"
• "Remember: Every cloud has a silver lining, even when traveling. ☁️🌤️"
• "Sending you a ‘no-turbulence’ wish for your travels. ✨🛫"
• "May your journey be as wonderful as your destination. 🏞️❤️"
• "Holding you tight in my thoughts for a secure trip. 🤝💭"
• "Take a deep breath and embrace the adventure, safely. 😮💨🚀"
• "Counting down to your return, safe and sound. ⏳🏡"
• "Travel assured, we'll be here when you get back. 🏠💙"
• "Safe travels! Remember, home is just a call away. 📲🏠"
• "May your trip be as pleasant as your favorite comfort food. 🍜🛫"
• "Sending you a mental safety net for your entire trip. 🧠🔒" Travel's all about the journey, but let's make it a safe one. So, pack these messages in your back pocket, just like that travel-sized hand sanitizer. Trust me, they’re just as essential!

More Articles Related to Messages

• CURRENTLY READING
• 0" class="p-3 mb-1 border-b-2 bg-gray-100 font-bold text-lg" x-cloak>Recent Translations
• Audio Available Study Bible CURRENT TRANSLATION
• All Translations

Proverbs 3:23-33

Images for proverbs 3:23-33.

Proverbs 3:23-33 Meaning and Commentary

Introduction to proverbs 3.

In this chapter, Wisdom, or Christ, delivers out some fresh lessons and instructions to his children; as not to forget his doctrine, but heartily attend to his precepts and ordinances, seeing these are the means of lengthening out their days, and of enjoying peace, Pr 3:1,2 ; as well as had the promise of the mercy and truth of God, and the continuance of them, annexed to them; and therefore are exhorted to keep close to them, and show the greatest value and affection for them, which was the way to find favour with, and to be taken notice of by, God and man, Pr 3:3,4 ; and then he proceeds to exhort them to a hearty trust in the Lord, without dependence on themselves; and to seek direction from him in every step they took, which they might expect to have, Pr 3:5,6 ; to humility and the fear of God, and fleeing from evil, which they would find would much contribute to their health, Pr 3:7,8 ; to liberality in supporting the worship of God, and the interest of religion, which would turn to account and profit to them, Pr 3:9,10 ; to patience in bearing the chastisement of the Lord, as coming from a loving father, Pr 3:11,12 ; then follows a commendation of wisdom, and the happiness of the man possessed of it is declared, Pr 3:13 ; from the profit, preciousness, pleasure, and usefulness of it, Pr 3:14-18 ; and from its concern in the works of creation and providence, Pr 3:19,20 ; and from that comfort, honour, safety, and security, which come by the doctrines and instructions of Wisdom, and a steady regard to them, Pr 3:21-26 ; and the chapter is concluded with exhortations to beneficence, charity, concord, and peace with neighbours, Pr 3:27-30 ; and to shun the ways of wicked men, urged from the different state and condition of wicked men and fools, and of the just, the lowly, and wise, Pr 3:31-35 .

11 Better Ways To Say “Safe Travels”

“Safe travels” is a polite way to wish somebody well on their upcoming journey. However, there are better ways to be polite and reassuring to your friends when they’re ready to go somewhere (often by plane). This article will share the best alternatives for such a case with you.

What Can I Say Instead Of “Safe Travels”?

There are plenty of ways to use “safe travels” in more exciting manners. You should check out one of the following:

• Have a good flight
• Happy landings
• See you on the other side
• Let me know when you arrive safely
• Stay safe out there
• Enjoy your trip
• Have a relaxing time away
• Happy travels

The preferred version is “be safe” because it keeps it simple. It’s a common phrase we use when we want to wish someone well, and we don’t want them to come across any complications or dangers that might occur if they’re not “careful” enough.

“Be safe” is great to show we care about someone. It lets them know that we worry about them, and we want them to stay “safe” no matter what happens. It works regardless of the method of transport for the journey as well, which makes it a good general phrase.

It’s common for family members to use the phrase “ be safe ” when seeing each other off. This shows that there is a lot of love behind the phrase and that it works well to show how much you care about someone’s wellbeing.

Here are a few ways we might be able to use this phrase:

• Be safe out there. I know you like to find trouble, but for once, I’d love it if you looked after yourself!
• Be safe on your way out! I would love to hear from you and see the pictures of all the things you get up to.
• Don’t forget to message me when you get there! Be safe, and I love you!

“Safe trip” is a simple phrase we can use to make sure someone knows we care. Using words like “safe” reminds people that we worry about them. Even if we are not physically there with them, we hope they are “safe” and do not get into trouble.

This phrase works well regardless of the trip that someone is taking. It could be a long-distance or a short-distance trip. Likewise, it could be by car, plane, boat, or something else entirely!

This phrase works in the following situations:

• Safe trip, Yuri! I’ll miss you, but I know you’ll be thinking about me while you’re away.
• Safe trip back to your hometown, then. Let me know when you get there safely.
• Safe trip, old friend. I’ll see you again whenever you’re next in town!

Have A Good Flight

“Have a good flight” is appropriate to use when someone is going to get on a plane. We use “flight” here to be specific, which helps us to show that we know what someone is getting up to and what they’re likely going to expect from their journey.

We can use this phrase in the following ways:

• Have a good flight! I’m sure you can get all the food and drink you want on there!
• Have a good flight, and don’t forget to let me know when you land safely!
• Have a good flight! There’s nothing to worry about, and you know it’ll all be okay!

Happy Landings

“Happy landings” specifically highlights the “landing” portion of a journey. It works well when someone is going on a plane, and we want them to be “happy” throughout the course of their journey.

Here are a few useful examples of how this one works:

• Happy landings, fella! Don’t forget that they really like their tips out there when you’re dining out!
• Happy landings, then! I’ll miss you every second, so I want you to send me all the photos you can!
• Happy landings! Don’t forget to explore some of the local scenery!

See You On The Other Side

“See you on the other side” is an informal idiom that works well in many cases. We can do it when we know that someone will be returning to see us again soon. “The other side” indicates the place where we will be staying while they go on a journey.

Check out some of these examples to see how it looks:

• See you on the other side, then! Have a great holiday!
• Have a great time away, Fred! See you on the other side!
• I’ll be here waiting for you as always! See you on the other side!

Let Me Know When You Arrive Safely

“Let me know when you arrive safely” is a calm way to let someone know that you are worried. When they arrive at their destination, we can ask them to “message” us to ease our minds and show us that they are thinking about us even after their journey.

We could also use a phrase like “text me when” instead of “let me know when.” If we want to be more specific about the manner of messaging, this phrase works just as well.

This phrase works well in the following ways:

• Let me know when you arrive safely, please! You know how much I worry about you while I’m not around!
• Text me when you arrive safely, please! I want to know just how much fun you’re getting up to.
• Let me know when you arrive safely! I’ll miss you every second that you’re away.

Stay Safe Out There

“Stay safe out there” is a good way to show that you care about someone. “Stay safe” helps to let them know that you’ll be looking out for them and that you want them to explore, but in a reasonable way that won’t cause them harm.

We typically use this phrase when someone is going on a long-distance journey. “Out there” is a good indicator of that.

Check out some of these examples to see how it works:

• Stay safe out there, then! I know you’ll make all the best choices while you’re away.
• Stay safe out there! I’ll miss you, but I know you’ll be having an absolutely adoring time!
• Stay safe out there. You never know what hijinx you might get into, so make sure you text me!

Enjoy Your Trip

“Enjoy your trip” is a simple way to show someone that you care. It helps to let them know that we want them to “enjoy” themselves. While trips can sometimes be boring (especially long-distance ones), we want people to feel like they can still have fun.

This simple phrase works as follows:

• Enjoy your trip, Michael! Let me know when you arrive so we can discuss the adventure more!
• Enjoy your trip! Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local culture when you get there!
• Enjoy your trip! I expect you to be fluent in German by the time you get back, okay?

Have A Relaxing Time Away

“Have a relaxing time away” works well in many cases. It’s most effective when we know that someone is inclined to worry (whether about the journey or the place they’re going). If we want to calm them down, this phrase works well.

These examples will help you make more sense of it:

• Have a relaxing time away! Remember, you don’t need to worry about a thing when you get on that plane!
• Have a relaxing time away! If anyone deserves it, it is most certainly you!
• Have a relaxing time away! I’m going to miss you, but I know you’ll be back in no time!

Happy Travels

“Happy travels” works really well when we want people to feel “happy” on their journey. “Travels” can refer to any method of transport, but the idea is that they’ll be spending a long time getting from point A to point B, and we want them to feel “happy.”

Perhaps one of these examples will help you make more sense of it:

• Happy travels, mate! I know you’ll love it over there in Australia, but you must tell me all about it.
• Happy travels, Sue! I’ll miss you, so don’t forget to write to me every day about what you do.
• Happy travels, Dan! Thank you for coming to see me again, and I’ll see you again soon, yeah?

“Bon voyage” is a great way to wish someone well before they go on an adventure. It’s French (and Italian), and it means “good journey.” It’s a commonly-used exclamation in English when we want to wish somebody well for something they’re going to do.

It’s also comforting because it shows that we do not wish any problems to come their way when they’re on their journey.

• Bon voyage, my little friend! I’ll see you again when you return!
• Bon voyage, then! I will miss you, but I hope you get a chance to text me a bunch when you get there!
• Bon voyage! I love you so much, and I’ll definitely miss you while you’re away.

You may also like: Safe Travels – Meaning & Usage (Helpful Examples)

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

• “Arrive To”, “Arrive At”, or “Arrive In”? Correct Preposition
• “Made It Home Safe” vs. “Made It Home Safely” – Correct Version
• Be Safe, Stay Safe, or Keep Safe? [Helpful Examples]
• Will Arrive or Will Be Arriving – What’s the Difference?

12 important travel safety tips everyone should know

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of travel, but it’s also important to think about your safety on your trip. Whether you get sick or fall prey to pickpockets, anything can happen on your travels – but you can prepare by staying informed and trusting your instincts. If you’re wondering how to stay safe, follow our top 12 travel safety tips, and make your next trip unforgettable for all the right reasons.

1. Do your research

The first rule of safe travel is getting to know your destination before you arrive. Do your research to learn about the country, political climate, cultural norms and taboos, and the safest neighbourhoods and accommodation for travellers. The first place to check is your government travel website where you’ll find country updates and travel safety advice and warnings.

2. Write down emergency info

If an emergency strikes while travelling, you might not have time to search for the numbers for local police, ambulance or embassies. Instead, look up the emergency services numbers before you get to your destination. Save them in your phone, and write them down on a small card that you can keep in your wallet. That way, you’ll always know exactly who to call in an emergency. It’s also helpful to learn some basic emergency phrases in the local language like “I need help” and “where is the nearest hospital?”

3. Register with your embassy

Many governments have a traveller enrolment program, designed to keep you updated with safety information and let your destination’s local embassy know that you are travelling in that country. All you have to do is sign up and you’ll get regular updates and travel safety tips for your destination. In the event of an emergency like a natural disaster, your local embassy will know you are in the country and will be able to contact you quickly to share information or arrange your evacuation.

4. Learn about common travel scams

Almost everywhere you travel, you’ll find local con-artists who are ready to scam you out of your cash. A quick Google search will let you know what the local scammers are up to in your destination, and how to avoid them. No one thinks they’ll fall for a scam but it can happen, so it’s best to be prepared. Some common scams include the broken taxi meter, the free bracelet, the group photo offer, the overbooked hotel, motorbike rental damage, fake tickets, or using children to distract you.

RELATED CONTENT: These are the safest travel destinations to visit in 2020

5. Get travel insurance

You never think you need travel insurance – until you do. Everyone needs travel insurance, no matter how long your trip is or where you go. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind in all kinds of unexpected scenarios like injuries, illness, theft or loss of valuables. Nobody expects to lose their expensive camera, or fall ill in a foreign country and get slammed with a big hospitable bill. But it can happen to anyone, no matter how careful you are. Remember, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

6. Don’t draw attention

Try to blend into your surroundings and avoid looking like an obvious tourist. Wearing flashy jewellery and inappropriate clothing will make you stick out like a sore thumb, meaning you’re more vulnerable to scammers and pickpockets. Be sure to do your research before travelling to find out what kinds of clothes the locals wear, then follow suit. Not only is this a great travel safety tip, but it’s also a sign of respect for local customs and will help you avoid offending the locals. In general, it’s best to dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and leave expensive jewellery at home.

RELATED CONTENT: 9 ways to ensure you’re a culturally sensitive traveller

7. Keep your valuables locked up

It’s best to travel without valuables like jewellery and expensive gadgets, but there’s always something you’ll need to keep safe like your passport and cash. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to keep your stuff safe. Get a sturdy lock for your luggage, but choose one that doesn’t stand out too much. Buy a slash-proof bag so it can’t be cut open and raided, and bring a cable tie or carabiner clip to tether it to your seat when eating out or travelling on buses and trains. Lastly, don’t keep any cash or valuables in your back pocket – it’s the first place a pickpocket will check.

8. Be smart about your money

Two of the most important money travel safety tips; never carry large amounts of cash (carry an international bank card and use local ATMs when you need cash), and never keep all your money and bank cards in one place. Keep your cash and cards in two or three different places, like your hotel safe or hiding spots in your bag. That way, if you one of your stashes gets stolen, you’ll still have some leftover. Make sure you notify your bank of your travels before leaving, so they don’t block your card for suspicious activity. Do your research beforehand to find out the best spots to exchange money, or if your destination has reliable ATMs. There are several ways you can keep yourself safe when using ATMs in a new destination. Cover your hand when keying in your PIN number, and always take a closer look at the ATM before using it. If anything feels off, go inside the bank. You can withdraw your cash there or get someone to come and check the machine.

9. Tell someone where you’re going and check in regularly

Before you travel, make sure you tell trusted friends or family where you’re going and when you should be back. Check in with them regularly and keep them updated on your plans while you’re travelling too. If they don’t hear from you, they can notify the local authorities and your embassy and give them important information. You’ll get help faster if someone knows where you were supposed to be.

10. Make copies of important documents

Your passport may be the most important thing you carry on your travels. If it ever gets lost or stolen, having a digital copy will help the process of getting a replacement passport much easier. Always scan your important documents (including driver’s licence and insurance details) and save them to your email or an online dropbox. That way, you can access your documents anywhere in the world.

11. Travel in numbers

Travelling in a group is generally safer than going it alone. You’ve got more people around you and more eyes on your valuables. It’s also a deterrent to scammers and pickpockets who are more likely to go after solo tourists. If you’re travelling alone, consider joining a trusted group tour . You’ll likely make some new friends and you’ll feel much safer with an expert tour guide, who can also share some local travel safety tips.

12. Trust your instincts

It’s easy to dismiss your instincts, but you should never ignore them. Your body has an ability to sense danger, so if you’re feeling uncomfortable and don’t know why, stop and pay attention to the situation. If someone or something is making you feel uneasy, there’s most likely a reason. Our instincts have been keeping us safe for millions of years, so always listen to your gut feeling. It will help you stay safe.

Have you got any great travel safety tips? Let us know in the comments below!

Want to hear more from us?

Sign up to receive inspiring travel articles, offers & news

" * " indicates required fields

Privacy Overview

Sign up for our emails (popup).

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

MY WANDERLUSTY LIFE

#TimeBudgetTravel

Must-Have Travel Safety Items: 17 Essentials for Your Travel Safety Kit

Last Updated: June 27, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith 2 Comments

Take a look at any of my pre-trip packing checklists and you’ll see half the things on there are travel safety items. I may be an adventurer, a thrill-seeker, and even a daredevil at times, but that doesn’t mean I’m not also a hyper-paranoid hypochondriac.

Was I like this before I got robbed while traveling solo ? It’s hard to say. The “safety” side of my travel plan is so deeply engrained it’s just part of my DNA at this point.

Whether or not something unsavory has ever happened to you on the road, it’s important to know that the possibility is always there. I’m not here to scare you out of seeing the world, I’m just here to keep it real. Danger lurks, y’all. Danger lurks.

Table of Contents

Travel safety kit

To avoid ever having to cry my way through an Italian train station again (et al), I now travel with a full-on travel safety kit—an arsenal of products (and mindsets) I utilize to keep myself healthy, safe, and in total control.

I recommend putting together a travel safety kit of your own because traveling the world is so much better when you can do it stress-free and with absolute peace of mind. Start here with the 18 travel safety items I take on every single trip.

Travel safety items for hotels & hostels

I always follow my gut, read reviews religiously, and make an extra effort to always and exclusively stay in hotels and neighborhoods that I deem safe. However, since I am often a solo female traveler staying in hotels by myself in foreign countries, the more security I can get, the better. 

1. Door stop alarm

One big must on my list of travel safety items is a door stop alarm . These act as both warning alarms and door stops to keep someone from entering your hotel room while you sleep, shower, whatever.

Simply slip it under your hotel room door then flip the switch to ON. If someone tries to sneak in, the alarm will activate and it is loud as Hell . You’ll wake up and the perp, hopefully, will run for their life.

Also, because of its wedge shape there’s a good chance they won’t be able to make it into the room anyway. Sure, a normal door stop would solve this problem, but if someone is trying to sneak into my room, I want the whole entire city block to know it. I definitely sleep a lot better knowing my room is alarmed and barricaded. 

Pro tip: Remove the battery from the alarm when packing it just in case it gets activated. We don’t want to reroute any flights, mmkay?

Get your door stop alarm here

2. Portable safe

Brought to us by the Pacsafe brand (which you’ll see a lot more of in this post) is this portable travel safe . This is a totally secure, theft-proof bag with a combination lock. You can fit a good amount of your valuables in it, then lock it around your hotel sink, the pipes, the bed, anything.

Many hotel rooms do come with safes but rarely anything bigger than your wallet can fit in there. What about your iPad? Or camera equipment? Plus, I literally have experienced an electronic hotel safe dying after I put my camera, phone, wallet, and passport inside at a beach cabana in Belize after hours. Do you know what that kind of panic attack feels like?

This Pacsafe portable safe means you get to lock up all your goods while still being in total control.

Get your portable safe here

Travel safety items for public safety

In a highly official polling of my Instagram followers, 38% of them say they have been a victim of a crime while traveling. Many of the stories involve what has been unfairly designated “petty theft” (though there’s nothing petty about getting your passport or laptop or wallet stolen while in a foreign country).

I know firsthand what a literal gut-wrenching nightmare this is and have vowed to never let it happen again. Everything I carry on my trips locks, zips, snaps, clips, and/or is, as we’ve seen is this post, booby-trapped.

3. Anti-theft bags

Have I ever been pick-pocketed in the literal sense? Thankfully, no. But that’s not for thieves’ lack of trying. I can guarantee there is no one else on earth more hyper-aware of her belongings when she travels, more purse-paranoid or suitcase suspicious. You will never, ever see me with an open-top bag or a purse that doesn’t latch shut.

Thankfully, there are companies like Pacsafe and Travelon who totally feel me! I’m obsessed with all their products and I outright refuse to travel with anything else. They have purses and bags of all sizes, shapes, and designs. (Even camera bags!)

Their bags have securable zippers that would be difficult to open for someone trying to rob you, and they’re made of cut-resistant materials . (People cutting bags and cameras off you with machetes or hedge clippers is something I’ve been warned about, specifically in Barcelona, pick-pocketing capital of Europe apparently.)

They have RFID pockets for the safety of your passport and credit cards, and padded laptop sleeves inside. These bags also have arm straps that can be clipped (and locked) around a chair leg or pole or anything immovable to prevent theft of the whole bag.

I feel so much safer using these bags when I’m in crowded train stations or on a busy street or standing in a line. This way, I can worry about other things like getting on the wrong train or what life is going to be like having never tried Turkish delight. Here are the particular ones I use…

4. Anti-theft carry-on backpack

For a carry-on backpack I use the Pacsafe Venturesafe 15L GII Anti-Theft Daypack . It’s on the smaller size but they have bigger sizes depending on your needs. (I’m also a small girl so I wanted one that would also be comfortable to wear. I tried four other versions before I found this one. It even says in the description, “Great gift for her!”)

This bag holds everything I need for a trip and has a bunch of pockets and pouches. I also love the solid black design—some other ones have the brand name on them and visible locks which just screams, “I have valuable stuff inside and I’m totally paranoid by the way, come get me!”

Get your Pacsafe backpack here

5. Theft-proof backpack purse

I’m usually not one to wear a backpack when I’m out exploring because I’m super paranoid about pick-pocketing as we’ve discussed, but I feel so much better about it with my Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack .

Like the name says, it’s slim and simple. It’s great for holding exactly what you need—phone, wallet, keys, a jacket, sunglasses, whatever—without being super bulky. Also, it’s made with securable zippers, water-resistant and slash-resistant material, slash-proof straps, RFID blocking organizer, and a lock-down strap. It’s basically Fort Knox in a cute “feminine style with incredible inner strength.”

It has a key clip inside so you never have to dig for your keys and a little LED flashlight. Also, there’s a quick-access pocket on the front that’s perfect for the bottle of hand sanitizer you need every ten minutes.

Get your anti-theft backpack purse here

6. Anti-theft purse

For the times I don’t want to use a backpack, I always wear a cross-body bag with various safety features. Cute, but conscious. This always includes securable zippers, flaps that latch, straps I can lock-down to my chair, etc. Honestly, you’re sacrificing nothing by using a theft-proof purse–there’s no good reason to not use one.

Travelon has so many cute theft-proof purses that don’t go overboard looking all “safe.” These purses also have RFID-blocking pockets and slash-proof material and are available in a ton of styles.

Personally, I’m a fan of the Anti-Theft Courier Saddle Bag and the Anti-Theft Heritage Crossbody bag and I won’t travel with a “normal” purse ever again.

Shop all anti-theft purses here

Travel safety items for luggage

While it would be nice to simply trust the people who handle our bags, we all know that’s not the case. But we can do a few things to tip the odds in our favor.

7. Luggage that locks

Everything in my life locks, can you tell? Including my luggage. Especially my luggage.

I don’t always check a bag, but I quite often do. And I always travel with hard shell luggage that locks. The best part is that most luggage locks are now TSA compliant—so, the TSA can still get in your bag if they need to, but deadbeat thieves cannot.

(That’s not to say an airline employee won’t swipe your stuff, so always keep the really valuable stuff with you.)

I personally travel with Away luggage and, though a bit pricey, I have no regrets. Their suitcases have an excellent locking system, are lightweight but sturdy, and help me keep my stuff organized.

Shop all Away luggage here

8. Bag locks

If you have a great piece of old luggage you love and aren’t ready to replace, I highly recommend a small set of locks for the zippers.

These, too, are now TSA compliant and are super affordable. I use these whenever I have to check a bag that doesn’t lock (like a hiking backpack or other) and for locking my carry-on bag in my hotel room. These can also be used for a ton of other scenarios!

Pick up some bag locks here

Travel safety items for personal safety

It’s one thing to secure your items… but it’s another to secure yourself. I care a lot about the things I bring on my trips, but in the end they are just THINGS. The most important thing you need to protect is yourself.

9. Birdie personal safety alarm

Just about any time I’ve ever out by myself (whether it be traveling around Europe or getting groceries in my town), I always have my Birdie personal alarm .

The idea of the Birdie is that should someone try to attack you (or whatever) you can activate the incredibly loud alarm (with flashing lights) to draw attention to yourself and what’s happening and hopefully scare the perp away.

I shopped a bunch of different kinds of personal alarms before I bought the Birdie and I really liked this one the best. The design and activation method made more sense than the others and I like the oval-shaped hook it comes on.

I like the Birdie over, say, pepper spray because it’s something you can safely and legally travel with. Pepper spray carries with it a lot of potential issues and even the possibility of spraying yourself. Let’s not help out the criminals, ok?

Get your Birdie personal safety alarm here

10. Safety whistle

While the Birdie alarm works best for everyday scenarios, there are certain times when you’ll need a safety whistle . For instance, while hiking.

If you find yourself lost or in a bind while hiking, a safety whistle is a must – but you have to know how to use it. While an alarm like the Birdie will certainly help people locate you, blowing on a safety whistle in three sharp blasts is the universal sign for I NEED HELP!

Don’t ever enter the wilderness without a safety whistle – just go ahead and keep it clipped to your backpack.

Get yourself a safety whistle here

Travel safety items for health and wellness

Now more than ever we are all concerned with our personal health while traveling. As someone who routinely gets sick on just about every international trip I take, I fully understand the importance here.

Now that the stakes are higher than ever, make sure to have these essential health-related travel safety items in your travel safety kit:

11. Disposable face masks

As a world traveler, it’s never been uncommon to see people on planes and in airports wearing face masks, I was just never among them. Now, I don’t foresee a trip anytime in the future where I won’t be masked up on an airplane. People are gross.

Our “recent situation” or not, I can think of at least a handful of occasions when wearing a mask while traveling would have saved me a ton of stress. I get sick while traveling a great deal so wearing a face mask on planes, on buses, on trains, and just about everywhere else I’m in contact with other humans is officially my new normal.

Many European countries (and others) still require you to wear KN95 masks or the equivalent in many places including on public transportation. Be sure to pack as many of these as you think you’ll need. I prefer the ones in pretty colors, naturally.

Get your face masks for travel here

PSA: The mask goes over your nose.

12. Thermometer

And I’m not even referring to the Covid-impulse to take our temperature every time someone coughs in our direction.

I have a small, simple thermometer I bring with me on all trips… now. It’s nothing fancy, but hella useful. I somehow have gotten myself into a handle of foreign illnesses where I did not have, yet desperately needed, a thermometer.

I even had to be visited by an emergency doctor in the middle of the night, in the middle of the jungle in Costa Rica, who did not have a thermometer (of all things) in his black medical bag. This isn’t totally shocking once I tell you he also didn’t know how to take my blood pressure but sure as heck tried anyway.

I’ve since started packing a thermometer for all my trips—it’s such a simple, small, lightweight thing to bring that can be seriously helpful.

Get your travel thermometer here

13. First aid kit

Regardless of what your planned activities are, there’s a good chance you’ll need a first aid kit amongst your travel safety items.

As prone to being taken down by foreign germs as I am, I’ve seen the inside of my fair share of foreign pharmacies. (Shout out to my favorites: Germany and Taiwan!) However, that doesn’t mean I always want to make the extra trip.

You should always consider bringing: band-aids and antibiotic ointment, tweezers, gauze, alcohol wipes, moleskin for blisters, disposable gloves, safety pins, and more.

I personally have put together my own first aid kit that I just toss in my bag every time, but if your house isn’t already stocked with this stuff (seriously, what it is like to not embody Steve Urkel?) you can pick up totally stocked travel-sized first aid kits .

Keep in mind that if you’re headed out on adventure of the mountainous sort or otherwise, what you need in your first aid kit will be a little bit more. In that case, you’ll need something more along the lines of this 299-piece first aid kit , complete with an aluminized rescue blanket, cold packs, and more (but still travel-sized).

14. Medications and prescriptions

Obviously if you’re taking prescription medication you should bring that, but you should also carry a copy of your prescription as well. Not only is it mandatory in many places for many different drugs, it can also help get a replacement in case you run out or your luggage gets lost, etc.

And I’m not just referring to pills and the like. Let me tell you about the time I got my backpack, which contained my eyeglasses, stolen. I was legally blind at the time and living in Italy—fun times!

I had to get a replacement pair of glasses ASAP and trying to get my prescription from my doctor in the U.S. to an optometrist in Italy was such a pain in the ass. It wasn’t impossible, but man was that a hassle. I softened the blow with some new Dolce & Gabbanas.

Luckily, I didn’t have any medically necessary prescription drugs in my bag or that “petty theft” could’ve been potentially fatal.

A note on Epipens

If you suffer from allergies, be it food or otherwise, consider bringing an Epipen on your trip. Even if they’re mild, chances are what you encounter in a new country will be new to your body. You may breathe in plants you’ve never been exposed to or eat foods containing any number of mystery ingredients. Be sure to discuss your upcoming travels with your allergist.

15. Over the counter drugs

In addition to your prescription drugs, don’t forget to bring the OTC drugs necessary for your destination. Things like:

• Anti-diarrheal meds for places like Mexico and India where, we’ll call it gastrointestinal distress, is common
• Ibuprofen for high-altitude destinations like Peru and Mexico City (read about my experience with altitude sickness here)
• OTC allergy medications for places like Tuscany in the summer where hay rules all
• Anti-nausea drugs and/or patches if you’re prone to motion sickness. I used to be, critically, but I’m not anymore. Read about how I cured my motion sickness permanently here!
• Whatever else keeps you going

16. List of allergies

Speaking of allergies, if you suffer from food allergies (guilty!), medicinal allergies, or really anything, definitely carry a list of what you’re allergic to… in the language of your destination.

If you suffer from food allergies and don’t speak [insert language here], you can show your list to a restaurant server, a street vendor, anyone really, to make sure they don’t sell you something that can kill you.

I showed my list to the woman working at the Turkish delight shop in Istanbul who basically shoved me out of the store after reading I was allergic to almonds.

Not only does this help in those instances, but it also shows you what words you need to avoid. For instance, “almonds” looks very different in: Germany ( mandeln ), Italy ( mandorle ), Mexico ( almendras ), Turksih ( bodem ), etc.

17. Travel insurance

You’ve probably heard me talk about travel insurance a million times, but it’s for good reason. Travel insurance, for me, has proven to be inexpensive yet absolutely priceless!

Though travel insurance can potentially save you tons of money on lost or stolen luggage, flight delays, canceled trips, and more, it can also play a vital role in case of a medical emergency.

• Check out this post on how much I got reimbursed after getting robbed in Italy.
• Then check out this post on my medical emergency in Costa Rica
• and this one for how travel insurance saved my friend’s life when her appendix burst in a remote village in Thailand

I’ve also used it for canceled flights and canceled trips. Hopefully you’ll never have to use it, but I find the peace of mind of just having it is worth whatever it costs.

Are there any travel safety items you always use? Let me know below!

Save this info, pin this image:

About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 39 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

Reader Interactions

August 28, 2024 at 9:32 PM

Just wanted to say Hi and very useful info here! Danke!

August 29, 2024 at 7:41 AM

Thank you Christine!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to MWL

Get my 2024 Oktoberfest Party Planning Checklist here!

Free 2024 Oktoberfest Packing Checklist

Get my 2023 Oktoberfest Packing List here!

Want more  Oktoberfest ?

Belize Packing List

Iceland packing list, get my 2024 hotel booking checklist here.

Subscribe to MWL!

Tmb packing list 2024, morocco packing list 2024, 2024 oahu bucket list.

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Gear » What Is The Best Portable Travel Safe? Find a Safe for Beaches, Hotels & Busses

What Is The Best Portable Travel Safe? Find a Safe for Beaches, Hotels & Busses

Good luck getting home without your passport. Your typical bank safes will qualify for more than a few oversized bag surcharges at check-in, but that doesn’t mean you should travel without protection.

Whatever is important enough for you to pack and bring with you on a trip is valuable enough to someone out there, and opportunistic criminals have learned to look for large backpacks and foreign accents as easy targets.

Hopefully, you’ve learned the basics. Never take your eyes off your luggage and don’t fall asleep on night busses. Bringing along a portable travel safe will help take your safety a step further.

Whether you’re looking for something that keeps your valuables more secure while on your person or while packed away in your hotel room, portable travel safes are a great way to go the extra mile and make sure that everything that starts your trip makes it home with you at the end.

Don’t entrust your passport and wallet to any old lock and key. We’ll show you some of the best portable safe technology on the market so you can get a better idea of what these handy tools can do.

There are safes out there for all sorts of environments, so it’s up to you to find the best way to secure your valuables. These soft and packable containers are easy to pack but hard to access and will help you out whether you’re heading to the neighborhood zoo or Zambia.

In A Hurry? These are the best portable travel safes.

#1 – best portable travel safe –  pacsafe 12 liter, #2 – best small portable travel box –  trova go, #3 – best beach lockbox –  safego  , #4 – best steel mesh travel safe –  pacsafe 55l backpack protector, #5 – best laptop travel safe –  pacsafe x15, #6 – best fireproof travel safe –  bluepower file folder, #7 – best camping safe box –  keep safe lock box, #8 – best disguised travel safe –  demeras mini book, #9 – best travel jewelry box – amazon basics portable security case lock box safe, #10 – best safe backpack –  venturesafe x12 anti-theft pack.

Pacsafe 12 Liter

• > Packs flat
• > Knife-proof

• > Fits in a pocket
• > Seals odor

• > Affordable and durable
• > Allows earphone access

Pacsafe 55L Backpack Protector

• > Highly adjustable
• > Locks up your entire backpack

Pacsafe X15

• > Can be used as a carry-on bag
• > Fits two laptops

BluePower File Folder

• > Expands to hold electronics
• > Five layers of lightweight protection

Keep Safe Lock Box

• > Simple locking mechanism
• > Lightweight

Demeras Mini Book

• > Fits phones and travel documents
• > Comes with two keys

Amazon Safe Box

• > Steel tethering cable
• > Easy to use combination lock

Venturesafe X12 Anti-Theft Pack

• > Reinforced zippers
• > Honeycomb mesh is cut-proof

What Is a Portable Travel Safe?

Why use a portable travel safe, where to use a portable travel safe, what are the different kinds of portable travel safes, what size of portable travel safe is best, what is the best portable travel safe, final thoughts.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

A travel safe is exactly what it sounds like. Through different techniques and methods, these portable safes allow you to securely lock and store your valuables wherever the journey takes you.

All styles of locking mechanisms, sizes, and security levels will come with a portable travel safe, so you can be sure to find the protection that works best for your adventures.

Just because these tools are called safes doesn’t mean you have to carry a bulky, heavy lockbox with you on your next trip. The latest portable travel safe iterations have flexible steel, mesh, and plenty of packable features.

Whether you want something to stow away in a hotel room, something you can keep with you at all times, or an entire bag that doubles as a lockbox, a portable travel safe that can fit in your luggage is an easy way to feel peace of mind and protect your valuables. Many travellers simply don’t think to be invest in a portable travel safe making them a great idea for a gift for backpackers.

It’s in the name! The only way to be 100% sure none of your valuables are going to be stolen is to stay at home, but a portable travel safe is a close second. Some hotels and hostels will offer a lockbox or valuables storage, but we can’t always count on that. 

Even if your destination comes with a Döttling Narcissus luxury safe,  portable travel safes will help make sure your valuables survive your travel days. These safes go beyond theft protection to offer water, wind, and fireproof places to store your goods.

Solo travelers can use portable safes to lock their gear down when it’s time for a bathroom break or finally feel comfortable falling asleep on the bus.

The list goes on and on.

If you’re lucky enough to ask this question, you may have never experienced a worst-case scenario of theft while traveling. At home or abroad, robbery can leave you stranded on the side of the road with nothing but an overwhelming sense of dread.

It may be tough to wrap your head around the necessity of keeping your valuables safe, but we highly recommend not waiting around until you’ve felt this hopelessness to invest in protection. There is no product out there that can prevent criminals from being criminals, but there is simply no situation where a portable travel safe won’t help make your valuables more secure. 

Whether your portable safe accompanies you through a bus ride, beach trip, or extended stay, you’ll hopefully never come across a situation where it’s necessary. If the worst happens, a good lockbox will make all the difference in the world.

You can use a portable travel safe wherever the road takes you. Lightweight and portable safes come small enough to stow your car keys before a day at the beach, and super tough aluminum shells let you keep your passport and credit cards locked away in your hotel room for days at a time.

Every safe on this list is suitable for use at beaches, hostel dorms, hotels, camping, and when boarding busses, trains or Tuk-Tuks. Depending on your needs, you’ll find a travel safe that locks down your larger backpack or a smaller device that holds a few essential documents.

Often made out of stainless steel or aluminum alloy, wire mesh technology is what made portable travel safes accessible to modern travelers. This lightweight mesh can wrap around your already existing bag and connect it to any fixture in your hotel room or any solid picnic table/beach chair while out and about.

Wire Mesh is used in all sorts of portable travel safes to connect the lockbox to any immovable object. Some safes take things a step further by offering a wire mesh exterior to wrap around your valuables, thus making any bag a travel safe.

Most famously created by Pacsafe, Travel Safe Bags feature anti-theft zippers, RFID blocking pockets, and numerous security features scattered throughout the packs. Some smaller bags come with one handle and use a mix of wire mesh and nylon wrapping to create a knife-proof shell that is light enough to carry in one hand. 

Other larger bags provide enough space to be used as carry-on or day bags with extra locking features. Any portable travel safe bag will include steel wire that allows you to easily attach the bag to any immovable object and lock down your valuables. 

These are a more traditional kind of portable travel safe. They are basically larger safes cut down and crafted out of lightweight materials that allow you to carry the boxes in your bag or pocket. Lockboxes typically don’t have enough space for you to protect every single item you travel with but are reserved for important documents, like your passport, wallet, keys, and cell phone. 

These boxes can be attached to larger fixtures with a lock to make sure they don’t go anywhere and also include a combination or key lock to open up. There are loads of varieties in lockboxes. You can find lockboxes with GPS tracking, carrying handles, and disguises. 

Different styles of travel safes are being invented every day. Modern travelers can find lockboxes explicitly designed for laptops, known as laptop cases, and document holders that can withstand wildfires and hurricanes.

Decide what it is you need to protect, and allow that to guide your search. You’ll be surprised at the variety in today’s travel safe market. 

First, ask yourself what you’ll be saving. 

Some barebones backpackers won’t be traveling with much more than the clothes on their backs, and those get funky fast. If you’re not too worried about someone running off with your dirty laundry, a small lockbox may be all you need to secure important documents in your hostel or hotel room. 

Other travelers, especially digital nomads, could be traveling with thousands of dollars of electronic equipment, most of which won’t fit in a typical lockbox. In this case, you’ll need a significantly more extensive travel safe.

If you want to protect your camera, laptop, and various gear, make sure you get a portable travel safe larger than your backpack, such as a wire mesh protector that will allow you to lock everything down with one key.

For those just looking to keep their keys and wallet secure while they head off on a surf or into the woods for a few days, a small lockbox will keep everything exactly where it needs to be without adding on extra pounds. 

The larger your lockbox, the more difficult it will be to transport, so think about what’s best for your particular nomadic lifestyle. 

The best portable travel safe is whatever best protects your valuables. 

What we’re saying is, the best travel safe for a hiker won’t be the best travel safe for a traveling photographer.  

That doesn’t mean there is no such thing as a lousy travel safe. Avoiding the pretenders and investing in a proper travel safe will save you money in the long run. 

An easily crackable travel safe is basically a box that says, “hey robbers, all the good stuff is right here.”

Best-in-class travel safes that have separated themselves from the pack by making sure no casual criminal can access your belongings as well as standing out as the best options for particular niches. 

Below, you’ll find industry-leading travel safes that have redefined peace of mind for traveling.

TBB amassed this list over thousands of hours of travel time and hundreds of close calls. Broke backpackers worldwide have entrusted their precious items to these portable travel safes and credit the technology packed into these protectors for getting home with everything in one piece. 

Here are the best travel safes for quick trips, long jaunts, and everything in between,  so you can find the perfect piece for peace of mind on your next trip.

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

#1 – Best Portable Travel Safe – Pacsafe 12 Liter

Pacsafe 12 Liter is our top pick for best portable travel safe

• Dimensions: 1 x 13 x 20
• Lock Type: Combination
• Weight (lbs): 1.2
• Material: Polyurethane
• Price: $228

Reinforced in all the right places yet still flexible, you can safely pack 12 liters of valuables in this badass travel safe. We love how easily you can carry this protective shell without sacrificing safety. 

The lightweight exterior isn’t easy to crack, thanks to cut-resistant canvas fabric with a stainless steel wire webbing. Polyurethane works with this steel wire to create a completely malleable bag that will dispel any would-be thieves. 

They won’t be able to slice through the steel mesh wiring, and you can easily lock the bag across furniture and lamp posts to ensure your bag isn’t going anywhere. When not in use, the safe can lay flat and fit easily into your larger luggage. 

This Pacsafe lock comes in various sizes, everything from small locks capable of protecting your passport and essential documents to larger containers that can hold a laptop and camera equipment. 

• TSA-approved
• Knife-proof
• Largest size is only 12 L
• Lock is not bolt-cutter proof

#2 – Best Small Portable Travel Box – Trova GO

Our pick for best small portable travel box is Trova GO

• Dimensions: 6 x 3 x 1
• Lock Type: Bluetooth
• Weight (lbs): 1
• Material: Aluminum

We love that this travel safe can slide right into your pocket, and there is no way anyone is getting in here without permission. Hardly larger than a typical sunglasses case, the Trova GO is a perfect place to store your ID, credit cards, and valuable accouterments secure and close. 

Where this travel box really stands out is in its technical specs. 

The box communicates with a cellphone app that utilizes biometric authentication, powered by a battery. This authentication system means the only way inside the Trova go is through your cell phone, and more importantly, it enables GPS tracking. 

If someone takes off with your Trova Go, you’ll be able to track the device’s whereabouts for up to 73 days, and they’ll have little chance of busting open the aluminum alloy without your cell phone. 

The fact that there is no way to open up the Trova without a cell phone makes us a bit wary, as your cellphone has a higher risk of being stolen than anything else in your arsenal. Never store this lockbox and your cell phone in the same place. If both devices are stolen, all the GPS tracking in the world won’t make much of a difference. We recommend hooking up the Trova GO to an iPad or any device that doesn’t often see the front lines. 

While it’s not foolproof, this technologically advanced lockbox is really difficult to break through and provides excellent safety to small items. 

• Fits in a pocket
• Great mobility
• Difficult to open but easy to steal
• Too small to store a passport

#3 – Best Beach Lockbox – SafeGo  

Meet the best beach lockbox: SafeGo

• Dimensions: 7 x 4 x 7.5
• Lock Type: Combination, key
• Material: Alloy Steel

A crowded beach is a petty thief’s wet dream. Throngs of people throw their cell phones and wallets underneath their beach towels and wander off into the sea, leaving their valuables totally unprotected.

Depending on where you’re headed, you may be able to get away with taking a carefree splash, but if you risk it enough times, someone will eventually snatch up your day bag or flip-flops. 

Unless, of course, you bring the SafeGo with you.

This lightweight lockbox isn’t much bigger than a purse and comes with a built-in three-digit combination lock. You can store the big three (phone, keys, and wallet) as well as any other small electronic devices inside and easily hook up the steel cable to any immovable object. 

Lock up your keys to your car’s exterior before a surf or keep your passport locked to your hotel room’s desk and enjoy your day, knowing you’ll come back to everything in its right place. 

• Affordable and durable
• Can be connected to anything
• Allows earphone access
• Easy to carry off if not secured
• May be easy to crack with a screwdriver

#4 – Best Steel Mesh Travel Safe – Pacsafe 55L Backpack Protector

Pacsafe 55L Backpack Protector is one of the best steel mesh travel safe

• Dimensions: 5 x 4 x 2
• Lock Type: Snap
• Material: Stainless Steel

This handy wiring can turn any backpack into a travel safe. With capabilities up to 120 Weight (lbs), any backpacker can fit their entire contents inside this backpack protector, which then locks up to any sturdy furniture nearby. 

What’s so ingenious about this travel safe is its simplicity. You’re sure to have room in your luggage for this lightweight steel mesh, and you won’t have to change up any of your packing habits to make the piece work. The protector ships with a padlock and carrying case to keep things organized when not in use, and the wiring folds down to less than 6 inches when not in use. 

The utterly adjustable wiring can fit bags of all shapes and sizes. Simply slip your backpack inside the mesh wiring, tighten the straps, and loop the steel mesh around an immovable object. 

We recommend using your backpack’s rain cover or wrapping a blanket around your bag before you cover it in mesh, as the space between the stainless steel bands could allow thieves to access pockets if not correctly secured. 

It’s a simple and effective lockbox for securing your entire backpack, perfect before long bus rides or any transport where you won’t be close to your pack. 

• Highly adjustable
• Locks up your entire backpack
• Lightweight addition to your luggage
• Gaps in steel mesh
• Not ideal for smaller bags

#5 – Best Laptop Travel Safe – Pacsafe X15

Pacsafe X15 is our top pick for best laptop travel safe

• Dimensions: 7 x 13 x 15
• Weight (lbs): 1.7

Laptop bags come in all shapes and sized but few are theft proof. As you can see, Pacsafe is the number one name in travel security. The company has dreamed up travel safe’s big and small, all effective means of protecting the important things. The X15 is one of the largest travel safes the company offers and works surprisingly well as a portable safe capable of protecting all your valuables in the same location. 

The bag is protected by Pacsafe’s signature stainless steel wire mesh woven into a polyurethane canvas bag with an easy carrying handle and shoulder strap. An external wire mesh piece allows you to secure this bag to exteriors big and small, perfect for locking the bag to a chair while you run to the bathroom or your hotel room’s desk before a day of sightseeing.

The large size does open up some holes in security, as the bag can be knifed through easier than Packsafe’s smaller models. Treat this bag more like an incredibly secure carrying case than a safety deposit box.  

Inside the safe, there’s room for two laptops, cameras, cell phones, passports, jewelry, and anything else worth protecting. The bag can be used as a stand-alone laptop case with a shoulder strap and will fold flat when not in use. 

• Can be used as a carry-on bag
• Fits two laptops
• 5-year warranty
• Difficult to find
• Susceptible to wire cutters

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

#6 – Best Fireproof Travel Safe – BluePower File Folder

Meet the best fireproof travel safe: BluePower File Folder

• Dimensions: 14 x 10 x 2
• Lock Type: None
• Weight (lbs): .4
• Material: Fiberglass

If Princess Leia didn’t have R2D2, she probably would have looked towards this file folder to keep the death star plans safe. Once it’s zipped up, your documents can handle flooding, explosions, and more. All of this protection is inside a casing that weighs less than a pound and can easily be tucked under flowing white robes.

This bag can handle some serious heat, capable of protecting important documents in temperatures up to 1000 degrees celsius. It’s not just for paperwork. The lightweight folder can hold jewelry, cash, tablets, and passports through floods, fire, and brimstone. 

This bag is best for those searching for protection from the elements more than criminals. It doesn’t ship with any locking mechanisms, but the carrying handle can easily be attached to a pair of handcuffs to lock around your wrists. It does ship with complete protection from fire, water, dust, and anything mother nature may throw at you. 

• Protected from the elements
• Expands to hold electronics
• Five layers of lightweight protection
• Does not ship with a lock
• Not the most reputable brand

#7 – Best Camping Safe Box – Keep Safe Lock Box

Our top pick for best camping safe box is Keep Safe Lock Box

• Dimensions: 7.87″x 6.30″x 3.54″
• Weight (lbs): ?1.88
• Material: Zinc Alloy
• Price: $19.99

This great, affordable option fits easily into your trunk or tent to keep everything safe at the campsite. Once you reach the campgrounds, you shouldn’t be using your cellphone, wallet, and keys anytime soon, and this convenient safe will allow you to store your valuables in a secure space and forget about them for a little while. 

A simple combination lock ensures there are no tiny keys to lose on the hike in. Do keep in mind that the thin metal won’t stand up against a bear attack. The good news is, as long as you don’t put any food in there, bears won’t spend much time trying to get at your wallet, and any human assailant will be quickly turned back by the reinforced lock and strong protections provided.  Get it added to your camping packing list.

• Works in the woods, beach, or gym
• Simple locking mechanism
• Lightweight
• Not Bear-proof
• Won’t fit an Ipad

#8 – Best Disguised Travel Safe – Demeras Mini Book

Demeras Mini Book is our pick for best disguised travel safe

• Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 2
• Lock Type: Key

The days of traveling with pocket guidebooks and dictionaries may be over, but still, most would-be thieve’s won’t think much about snatching up a new English dictionary. This clever safe takes the shape of a pocketbook and features a secret latch that reveals a small carrying space perfect for emergency cash, important documents, or passports. 

The light outer shell looks and feels like a regular book, but opening up the front cover reveals a stainless steel safe that criminals can’t access without a key. It even weighs less than an actual book, making sure you can fit it into all sorts of luggage. 

You can store your valuables in this dictionary and confidently leave the book in your hostel, knowing that no one has opened up a paper dictionary in years, and even if a suspicious customer does see through the ruse, the key is in your pocket. 

• Looks just like a book
• Fits phones and travel documents
• Comes with two keys
• If someone opens the cover, the jig is up
• Not large enough for a camera

#9 – Best Travel Jewelry Box – Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe

Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe is one of the best travel jewelry box

• Dimensions: 9.5″D x 6.5″W x 1.8″H
• Weight (lbs): 2.86
• Price: $21.47

The Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe is the closest thing on our list to a traditional safe, serving up a lightweight lockbox that allows you to bring security with you on the road. A three-number combination protects jewelry, cash, or important documents and works great in your car or hotel room. 

Unlike a traditional safe, the box is lightweight and easy to move, but to combat that, Amazon added a steel tethering cable that quickly locks to any immovable object for a secure place for gold, silver, or passports. 

Some of the portable travel safes on our list are looking to redefine what a safe looks like, but this simple safe box just wants to make sure your valuables are secure. 

• Steel tethering cable
• Easy to use combination lock
• Fits a cell phone
• Not the most high-tech travel safe on the market

#10 – Best Safe Backpack – Venturesafe X12 Anti-Theft Pack

Venturesafe X12 Anti-Theft Pack is our top pick for best safe backpack

• Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 6
• Lock Type: N/A
• Weight (lbs): 1.5
• Price: $134

Why slip a safe into your backpack when you can have your entire backpack work as a portable travel safe? This Pacsafe bag allows you to travel with 12 liters of anti-theft design, all the way down to the interlocking zippers. 

The bag is made of lightweight steel mesh and polyurethane that promises to be relatively cut-proof without weighing half a ton. A detachable buckle runs along the mid-section and lets you lock your bag to any fixture. Whether you’re leaving for a few hours or a few minutes, you can secure this bag with ease. 

Inside the anti-theft backpack, you’ll find a laptop sleeve and mesh pocket. Exterior pockets are RFID blocking but still provide quick access to make security checkpoints a fast process. You’ll also find many features you can expect from a typical backpack, like water bottle pockets and padded shoulder straps. 

All of this is wrapped up in a water-repellent exterior shell to create a complete protection piece that lets you quickly lock up the entire contents of your bag. 

• Entire bag doubles as a safe
• Reinforced zippers
• Honeycomb mesh is cut-proof
• No lock included
• No external steel wiring

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

That about wraps it up. 

Whether you’re looking for a safe space for your passport or want to lock down your entire arsenal , you’ll find the protection you’re looking for in one of these travel safes. 

Don’t forget that no matter which travel safe you choose, they will only go as far as you take them. Your travel safe doesn’t do you any good tucked into the bottom of your backpack, and all it takes is one day of feeling like locking everything up is not worth the trouble for all your hard work to go to waste. 

There is no substitute for vigilance while on the road, but these travel safes, like the SafeGo , will help you keep your belongings secure and keep your head on the path ahead instead of stressing about what you left behind. 

If you’re one of the lucky few who have wandered the ends of the earth without wandering down the wrong alley or one of the lucky hostel-goers who hasn’t yet put too much faith in their roommates, don’t wait until you’ve been had to secure your valuables. Something as simple as the Trova GO will keep everything you need to get home safely within reach of your GPS.  

If you have felt the dread of coming back from a day out to find your bag turned inside out, don’t let that experience keep you from wandering. With the protection offered by the Pacsafe 12 Liter , you can head out for your day knowing that potential criminals will walk away only with a few pairs of dirty underwear. 

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

10 Top Travel Safety Tips: How to Travel Safely No Matter Where You’re Going

Posted on Published: June 15, 2016  - Last updated: July 6, 2024

Categories Blog , Resources , Travel Planning , Travel Safety

Seeing the world can lead to some incredible adventures.

You’ll have some of the best experiences of your life when you’re exploring the planet. The world is not something to be feared. It’s not as dangerous as it may seem at times, even if you’re traveling solo. Of course, it’s important to do your research before you depart on your big adventure. When you’re visiting new cities and countries, be sure to take the necessary precautions to stay safe when you travel. With a little planning, you’ll be aware of the risks and be prepared for any situations that might threaten your safety. Here are my top 10 travel safety tips so you can stay safe and well while you’re abroad.

Table of Contents

This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Make Copies of Travel Documents

It’s always a good idea to have a backup, especially when it comes to your important travel documents. Keep copies of your passport and other paperwork separate from the original ones, in case they get stolen. You can photocopy your documents, email them to yourself, upload them to your online storage space (like Google Drive), or take a picture of them with the camera on your phone. It never hurts to be too prepared.

Get Immunized

Visit your local travel doctor months before you leave for your trip. Your doctor can recommend the appropriate vaccinations that are required to visit certain countries. Before I traveled to Kenya, my travel doctor recommended that I get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. He also wrote a prescription for malaria pills and an antibiotic, just in case. In many cases, I’d recommend bringing other items to various countries around the world, such as mosquito netting , bug repellent , a medical safety kit , and ways to purify the drinking water .

Research Common Scams

Before you leave for your trip, read articles and travel blogs about common tourist scams. These could vary from place to place. For instance, before traveling to Italy, I read many articles about the ways tourists are robbed or deceived. Think about it – you’re in a new environment and most likely in awe of your surroundings. You might be less guarded than usual and thieves will take advantage of this. Even though I read about the ways pickpockets prey on tourists, I still got conned on one of my first days in Italy .

How did this happen? I was completely distracted. Thankfully, it wasn’t anything too devastating, but I learned my lesson. Later in the trip, I spotted pickpockets on a train and didn’t let them get anywhere near my belongings.

You can’t be completely prepared for every situation, but it does help to learn from the mistakes of other travelers. If in doubt, use your common sense. Trust your own instincts. Don’t put your complete trust in someone you just met. Use the same common sense as you would at home.

Register with the Government

In Canada, you can register with the government before you travel abroad. It’s a very simple process that takes a few seconds. In case of an emergency abroad or at home, the Government of Canada will be able to contact you. You’ll be able to receive important details and information during natural disasters or civil unrest. You can also register at a Canadian embassy abroad. If you aren’t Canadian, your own government or embassy most likely offers a similar free service. Even if you’re planning a short vacation, it’s a good idea to register in advance.

Get Travel Insurance

Don’t skip this step. Get travel insurance. Trust me! I’ve heard way too many horror stories to realize that you need to buy travel insurance before you go on holiday. It’s likely my number one piece of advice out of all travel safety tips.

Whether you’re traveling for a week or living abroad, it’s always a good idea to be covered. For Canadians, your own provincial health plan won’t cover any medical bills when you’re out of the country. Even if you’re perfectly healthy, it’s always good to expect the unexpected. It’s possible that you could become sick or injured overseas. I’ve sailed on cruise ships on a few occasions now where a passenger needed to be airlifted to the nearest hospital. Without the proper insurance, these bills can be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. I really hope that those travelers were insured.

Thankfully, there is a way to compare travel insurance quotes in one place at Kanetix. This is an easy way to save money on your travel insurance costs by up to 66%. There are a variety of travel insurance plans to choose from, whether it’s trip cancellation insurance, medical insurance, snowbird travel insurance, insurance for single trips or multi-trips, or an all-inclusive plan. This is the most cost effective way of comparing and finding the best plan for you.

Watch Your Valuables

While it’s best to leave any unnecessary valuables at home (for instance, fancy jewelry), we do tend to travel with some fairly expensive gear in the form of technology. Multiple cameras, a drone, a smartphone, a tablet or laptop…it all adds up. Thieves realize that tourists travel with expensive belongings and will steal items that you leave unattended. It’s always a good idea to keep a close watch on your stuff, especially in transit – on the train, bus, or plane.

If possible, keep your cameras tucked away when you’re not using them and not hanging around your neck. I purchased a discreet camera messenger bag rather than keeping it in a branded camera bag (where it’s obvious that there’s a camera inside it). We bought a backpack to store our drone rather than a case with the drone company’s logo displayed on it. That way, no one can tell that there is expensive gear on us – at least not by a quick glance, anyway.

Safely Store Your Cash

If you’re carrying a lot of cash on you, keep it in multiple places. If you’re visiting areas where you could be robbed, it’s a good idea to store your cash safely in a money belt . Keep only a small amount of cash in your wallet. I’ve even heard of some travelers keeping a “dummy wallet” for pickpockets to steal that doesn’t have anything important inside it.

If possible, keep most of your cash stored in your hotel room’s safe. And it’s always a good idea to keep an emergency stash somewhere in your luggage or somewhere safe in case you do get robbed. And again, use common sense. Don’t use ATMs late at night. Don’t count your money in front of large crowds of people.

How to Travel Safely: Blend In

Don’t stand out as the obvious tourist . Research how the locals dress and act. Try to blend in as much as possible. Follow the local customs and rules. For example, we read that the locals in Italy don’t tend to wear shorts, even when it’s hot outside. We dressed and acted appropriately, and even got mistaken as locals on a couple occasions!

In traditional countries, it might not be acceptable to wear shorts or tank tops. When entering some religious sites, you must cover your shoulders and knees, so be prepared for that by dressing properly or packing a scarf . Be respectful of the laws and customs of the places you visit.

It’s also much better to use an app on your phone for directions, like Google Maps. This saves you from whipping out a giant city map on the street.

Use your own common sense and trust your gut instincts. If something feels wrong, it most likely is wrong. Don’t drink too much, especially if you’re traveling alone. It’s way easier to encounter harmful situations or have someone take advantage of you if you’re no longer in control.

It also isn’t ever a good idea to wander around at night by yourself, no matter where you are. Be mindful of the good and bad neighborhoods in a city. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t allow yourself to become easily distracted, and act like you belong where you are. Walk with confidence, even if you don’t know where you’re going.

And please, if you ever find yourself volunteering on a wildlife conservancy in Kenya, be within running distance of your car should you encounter any rampaging buffaloes .

Keep in Touch

Stay in touch with your friends and family back home. Keep them up to date with your current whereabouts. It’s a good idea to have an emergency contact. These contacts should have a full itinerary of where you’ll be staying and the best ways to get in touch with you. The best way to stay in touch when you’re traveling is by having continual Wi-Fi access. Tep Wireless makes this possible with their portable Teppy devices . They’re super affordable, easy to carry with you, and you can stay in touch no matter where you are in the world.

You never know what might happen when you’re away from home. It’s good to have an easy way to communicate with your loved ones, even if you’re thousands of miles away. By following these safety tips for travelers, you’re bound to stay safe when you travel.

Do you have any additional travel safety tips?

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Sunday 29th of May 2022

Those are very useful tips! Reading your blog just made me realize that appearance whenever I travel also matters. I guest I'm an "obvious tourist" because of my camera and backpack. LOL. Anyway, if I may just add, storing your valuables in a lockable bags would be helpful too.

Dubrovnik bareboat charter

Tuesday 22nd of January 2019

To stay safe while travelling there are basic needs which you need to fulfill as this are the general tips while travelling you should keep the duplicate copies of each and every legal documents very carefully and doing researching the place that you are going to visit is necessary to avoid any further issue.

Marty Deemst

Sunday 7th of October 2018

Thanks for sharing this helpful information. You are inspiring me for traveling. I’m sure most people can take notes from this article. One thing most people lack experience while traveling. I have a couple of young friends that are going to get traveling soon. Well, this post gives me some good ideas to stay safe when traveling.

Amelia Clayton

Tuesday 2nd of October 2018

Thanks a lot for sharing such an informative article about travel and I have pleased to get this blog page. I will save your website and I will share it with my friends. I hope they will be benefited by this article for travel information and take care.

Tuesday 18th of September 2018

Wow! Such awesome vital information in regard to traveling, I love traveling in different places, I remember there were awesome days when I’d just travel for the fun of it and it was fantastic, But I was worried to afford to travel! But review this article my confusion is clear, Thanks

Wednesday 19th of September 2018

I'm happy that you've found this article to be useful in planning your travels!

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Burma (Myanmar) Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 6, 2024, burma (myanmar) - level 4: do not travel.

Updated Country Summary, to include information about implementation of a conscription law, and changes to the “ If you decide to travel to Burma” section.

Do not travel to Burma due to  civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws . Reconsider travel to Burma due to  limited and/or inadequate healthcare and emergency medical resources, and areas with land mines and unexploded ordnances . Exercise increased caution due to  wrongful detentions .

COUNTRY SUMMARY:  The Burma military regime detained and deposed elected government officials in a February 2021 coup d'état. Protests and demonstrations against military rule continue, often on significant dates. The military has responded to those protests by  arbitrarily detaining individuals  and with the indiscriminate use of deadly force against protesters and bystanders.

The Department of State has determined that the  risk of wrongful detention  of U.S. nationals by the military regime exists.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Burma due to security concerns amidst the ongoing armed conflict. This may be of particular concern to crime victims outside of Rangoon.

To mitigate safety and security risks, U.S. government employees’ dependents, under the age of 21, cannot reside in Burma with their U.S. government parent assigned to work in Burma.

Civil unrest and armed conflict  occur throughout Burma. The level of civil unrest and armed conflict varies significantly between and within states and regions and may change at any time.

Civil unrest and armed violence due to fighting between the military regime and various ethnic groups and militias occur particularly in parts of Chin, Kachin, Kayin, Rakhine, and Shan States, as well as in Sagaing and Magway regions.

Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are used in the ongoing armed conflicts, including within the greater Rangoon area. From January to December 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon calculated an average of fifteen IEDs per month detonated against regime targets, while an average of eight unexploded IEDs were discovered and safely disposed of per month by security authorities. Outside of Rangoon, there have been IED attacks against checkpoints and other critical infrastructure.

While land mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) exist throughout Burma , NGOs working on this issue state the greatest concerns are in Shan, Chin, and Kachin State. The locations of landmines and UXO are often not marked or otherwise unidentifiable.

The military regime  arbitrarily enforces local laws , including often detaining individuals without respect for their fair trial guarantees or other applicable rights . Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, are not excluded from this practice. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Burma may be detained and regime authorities could deny access to U.S. consular services or information about the alleged crime.

Local law enforcement officials may detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for speaking out or protesting against the military regime, including on their personal social media accounts, and for sending private electronic messages critical of the military regime. Facebook and X (Twitter) are banned in Burma. Police have sought bribes from individuals using a virtual private network (VPN) to access social media sites even though VPN use is legal.

Burma has  limited and/or inadequate healthcare and emergency medical resources  due to critical staffing shortages in the public sector health workforce. Importation of medical supplies, including medicine, into Burma is not consistent and medical prescriptions and over-the-counter medicine may not be available.

Burma’s military conscription law was first introduced in 2010 but historically was not widely implemented. The military regime officially implemented the law in April 2024. In general, Burmese males aged 18 to 35 and Burmese females aged 18 to 27 will need to register for military service and report for duty if ordered by regime authorities. Burmese males aged 18 to 45 and Burmese females aged 18 to 35 in specific expert/professional occupations must serve if called upon by the regime. For more information, please refer to the Myanmar People’s Military Service Law (State Peace and Development Council Law No. 27/2010), also known as the Public Military Service Law. The military regime may refuse to acknowledge U.S.-Burmese dual nationals’ U.S. citizenship, prevent their departure from Burma, and/or conscript them into the military. U.S.-Burmese nationals should consider this issue before traveling to Burma.

Read the Country Information page for additional information on travel to Burma.

If you decide to travel to Burma:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the Embassy on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the Embassy’s Consular Section on  Facebook .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Burma.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Purchase travel medical insurance that covers Burma and includes medical evacuation. 
• Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance. 
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. 
• Make contingency plans to leave the country. 
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.  
• Review our website on Dual-Nationality . 
• Visit our website for  High-Risk Area Travelers .   
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. 
• Review Ready.gov’s Financial Preparedness webpage .
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization.
• Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials that could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices prior to travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit: