We all love a holiday, but sometimes they warrant a touch more caution when it comes to staying
safe. Depending on where you’re travelling to, you may need to remain aware of any risks that area
poses – with each new place you travel to comes a different level of risk. Here are some pointers on how you can stay safe while on holiday abroad.

Protect your valuables

In some parts of the world, pick-pocketers and thieves can be rife, as tourists are often armed with
spending money and valuables. Keep your phone and wallet close to you, ideally buried in a zipped
bag that’s hard for someone to slip out of your possession. You might choose a money belt that can
be hidden under your top or a bag that goes across your body for example. Keep any valuables out
of sight to avoid attracting attention.

Be smart with your money

Carrying cash can be risky, and when you’re abroad, it can’t always be helped. Try your best to
distribute the bulk of your cash across several places, such as back at your accommodation (ideally in
a safe) and in a number of bags. Avoid taking all your cash out with you in one go, because if
someone steals it, you won’t have any back-up.

Know the emergency numbers for your destination

Having emergency numbers handy means you can seek help if anything happens. This might include
the local police, as well as the embassy’s number. The government offers advice on how to get help
if you’re a victim abroad. If you are involved in an accident, or injure yourself whilst on holiday and it
wasn’t your fault, you may be able to claim compensation, so be sure to have any details to hand.

Be aware of your surroundings and do your research

By researching your destination before travelling, you’ll be equipped with the know-how to stay safe
while on holiday. For example, you might discover that pickpocketing is common in a particular area,
or that transport options become limited after a certain time. Research any health risks too, so that
you can avoid getting sick and having to sacrifice part of your holiday. For example, you might need
to avoid drinking tap water. The more you know about the area you’re visiting, the better prepared
you can be.

Drink responsibly

Drinking too much alcohol can put people in a vulnerable state, so be careful while out having fun. It
is also wise to keep an eye on your drink to rule out the possibility of being spiked too. It’s important
to enjoy yourself, but it’s just as important to keep yourself safe at the same time.