Have a quick read of the news and you would be forgiven for assuming that the world is no longer a safe place to travel.
From pickpocketing to mugging, assaults to terrorist attacks, travellers are often the targets of crime, which can prove daunting.
Earlier this month, for example, Thailand was catapulted into the spotlight when two young British travellers were found brutally murdered after a late-night party on Koh Tao.
The double killing in this generally safe country has highlighted the fact that we must be aware of the dangers when we travel and that no destination, no matter how idyllic, is completely immune of possible threats.
But sometimes, in the whirlwind of planning and the excitement of adventure, safety is the first concern to fly out the window.
We check our passports, book our transport and trawl through reams of hotel reviews – but are we even aware of the real dangers lurking beyond the confines of our accommodation or the threats on our destination’s streets?
To help get you into a safety-conscious frame of mind, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides a detailed list of the countries in which you should use added caution.
For instance, in September it issued Ebola warnings for Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, suggesting that all non-essential travel to those countries should be avoided. Additionally, as of August, it is recommended that travel to Libya should be avoided completely, with an earlier warning echoing that sentiment for Iraq.
Other countries on the ‘caution’ list include Kenya, Thailand, Egypt and Ukraine, with Iceland also making it into the inventory thanks to its Bardarbunga volcano emitting sulphur fumes.
But aside from knowing this vital information, there are other things to consider.
Here is a suggested list of ways to help stay safe en route, as well as in your destination:
• Know the political situation
Things can change quickly when it comes to politics, so keep up-to-date on the latest from the foreign office. It is important to know if there are any areas of unrest that you should avoid on your travels, as well as any sensitive political or religious topics that it’s best not to mention. If anything potentially dangerous crops up in your destination, then it’s best to rethink and head somewhere else until it all calms down.
• Pack cleverly
Aside from the obvious, there are some items to pack that could prove very useful on your trip. For instance, you may not be able to get certain over-the-counter medicines at your destination, so take them with you. You may also need insect repellent, high-factor sun cream and particular protective clothing.
• Have the right documents
Actually, have two of them. First ensure you have all the documents needed on your journey: passport, any visas, travel and accommodation confirmations and proof of any vaccinations you’ve taken. Next, take copies of them all and store them in a different place; keep one copy with you at all times and leave the other at your accommodation. Ideally, leave a third copy back home where someone you trust can access it. Travel insurance is also a must, and you may need to tailor your cover based on your destination (such as if it is outside Europe), as well as the activities you are planning (basic policies may not cover extreme sports).
• Be aware of everything you do
Part of the magic of travelling is leaving the real world behind and it can be easy to get caught up in the moment. Despite that, try to keep your wits about you. Know your surroundings, be aware of emergency exits if you’re in a crowded place, and keep a constant note of your belongings so you don’t leave anything behind.
• Think seriously about money
Sometimes, in the whirlwind of planning and the excitement of adventure, safety is the first concern to fly out the window
It’s not enough to have a quick ponder about your holiday budget, you really need to know your options (and fallback plans) when it comes to money. Firstly, know what you can afford to spend and convert that amount into your destination currency, so there’s no room for confusion. Inform your bank that you will be travelling and ensure you have a backup credit or international debit card that you can use if your main one goes missing. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, but do have enough for emergencies as you won’t be able to pay for everything with your card. Never flash your cash around, and always store back up amounts, as well as your second credit card, in a different part of your suitcase or in the hotel safe; that way, if any gets stolen, you will still have enough to get by.
• Know the numbers to call
If something does go wrong then it’s vital to know whom to call when you need help. Emergency numbers can vary from country to country, especially when you go further afield, so be sure to note them down on arrival. It’s also a good idea to know if there is a Maltese embassy or consul in the country that you’re visiting and to keep a record of their contact details.
• Communicate your plans
Give a copy of your itinerary to someone back home and ask him or her to keep an eye on where you’re going to be. Give them the contact details of all the places you’re going to stay so that they can still get in touch if your mobile phone isn’t working. Agree to communicate every couple of days so that they know how your plans are progressing and are aware of any changes. Regardless of whether you have a travel buddy, try to also find someone local who you can trust with the knowledge about where you’re going to be and your timings – but be extra careful with this so that person doesn’t abuse the information.
• Know your destination
Finally, once you’re on the ground, get to know the place as soon as possible. Ask someone you trust for advice on the safe areas in town, as well as the areas you should avoid. Know what transport is available at what time, and always carry the number of a local taxi company and enough cash to cover your ride home. Ask difficult questions and persist until you get the answers you need; it’s this kind of knowledge that you help you right when you need it.
In short, travel safety is mostly about keeping your head screwed on and not forgetting the ever-relevant rules of general safety.
Chances are that if you wouldn’t risk doing something back home, then you probably shouldn’t risk it on holiday either!