Traveling abroad is a very fun, exciting, and informative experience. However, when you leave the United States you are in another country and have different rules, customs, and expectations. You are no longer in your homeland and aren’t guaranteed the rights you have at home. You must obey the laws of the country you visit. There are some things you should do to help keep you safe while away from the country. If you are still at the planning stage of your trip you should definitely connect with Jon, who is an expert in all this and is going to help you a lot with the planning and the itinerary of your abroad trip along with all the rules and regulations.
- The department of state recommends that you register your trip information at the following website https://travelregistration.state.gov. By registering on this website this allows the state to be able to contact you should there be a problem within the country you are traveling in or at home.
- Find out how your medical insurance will work when you are away from home. Some insurance company’s coverages will pay for your treatment overseas only in the case of an emergency. There are other situations that might be covered as well. Check with your insurance company.
- Have your medication with you in its original prescription bottle. Also, keep a list of the names of your medications in case something gets lost and you are able to get a refill or anything else arises. Keep your drug allergies and medical conditions with you as well. Keep this with your passport and itinerary so that it’s easy to find and identify. It is important to have your medical conditions documented in case you need to be treated while away from home.
- Give your family and friends a copy of your itinerary. Let them know your plans and where you will be staying so that your relatives know where you are and can be the point of contact if needed.
- Take a calling card with you with a list of access codes for the various countries you will be traveling to. Check-in with someone that is in your circle of friends or family at least once every other day just so they can hear from you and track your progress and keep each other informed of any news events that are taking place.
- Don’t carry a lot of cash. Cash is asking for criminals to find you. Many travelers are opting for credit cards or prepaid credit cards for traveling. This is a much better way to manage your finances when in another country.
- Use the same precautions you do prior to going to a party or club at home. Many foreign countries have a lower drinking age than at home. Be aware of your surroundings if you choose to drink.
Don’t Accept Drinks From Strangers
Don’t Accept Rides From Strangers
Always Be aware of where you are and where you are going
Being in a foreign country doesn’t give anyone the right to take advantage of you or hurt you.
- Be aware of public transportation and the routes that will take you where you want to go. Plan your transportation so that you won’t be lost or end up in a dangerous part of town.
- In developing areas care should be taken with the water and food you consume. Only drink and eat items that are packaged or fully cooked because you are guaranteed a measure of safety. Wash your hands often to prevent germs and be careful of touching wild native animals that could also spread germs.
- Be careful of your interactions with sex. HIV is still a very common disease that is spread through specific forms of sexual activity. You can’t look at someone and know if they have the disease or not. Abstinence is the only 100% guarantee against the disease. Latex or polyurethane condoms are a common protection measure.
