规划旅行时的兴奋之情溢于言表。想象即将发生的一切,甚至亲眼见到那个你一直梦想造访的地方,都让前期的一切准备都变得非常值得。但在兴奋之余,别忘了做好个人安全方面的规划。

Consider this advice for avoiding emergencies and crises while traveling to another country.

Research your location thoroughly

Know the relevant rules and laws at each stop on your journey. This can include customs and religious restrictions on attire that might draw attention to you.

Don’t rely solely on GPS for directions

Sure, your phone’s GPS is helpful for navigating from Point A to Point B… until it’s not. “Dead zones” and lack of cellular signal can happen anywhere, and so can dead phone batteries. Don’t get lost in a place you’re not familiar with. Research and plan your routes in advance and bring printed maps as a back-up plan.

Know where to go for help

Research the address and phone number of local police, fire, and medical facilities in advance, and be sure you know where your home country’s embassy and consulate are located in the event of an emergency. Save that information to an easily accessible place on your phone and label it “Emergency.” Carry a printed version with you as well in case you can’t access your phone for any reason.

Talk to trusted local sources

The people you interact with during a trip — hotel workers, restaurant employees, friends you trust in the places you are going — can give you some great advice. Pay special attention to what they say about areas of town that might be more dangerous than others and avoid those places for your safety.

Be aware and be confident

Walk with purpose, stay alert, and make eye contact as much as you’re comfortable. The idea is to not look lost, worried, or afraid, even if that’s how you feel in the moment. By exuding confidence, you are more likely to be avoided by scammers, criminals, and others who could create an emergency.

Protect your health, well-being, and investment in your travels

Before you leave for your trip, consider purchasing travel medical insurance and rest easy knowing you’re covered if you get sick or injured on your trip. For added peace of mind, enroll in trip insurance as well for coverage in the event your trip is cancelled or interrupted, or if you lose your baggage. View your options and purchase coverage through Lewerglobal.