The risks of travelling overseas
There’s no arguing that travelling the world will open your mind, expand your perspective and give
you unparalleled moments of joy. But it’s definitely riskier than staying at home. These risks can be
managed with some preparation, proper travel insurance and the right mindset. Let’s have a look
at some of the major risks you can encounter.
Losing your belongings
When you travel, you carry all your belongings with you
while moving from one place to another or when you’re
staying in various accommodation options. By doing this
you greatly increase the chances of your belongings
disappearing. In this case it might help to be a minimalist
and take only what you need with you. Every extra
possession you carry, ups the pressure and attachment
– you’ll constantly think of how to secure it instead of
taking a swim or going to the beach. Travelling light is
the way to go. Try to find a balance between not being
careless and not being overly paranoid.
Being mugged
As a tourist in a foreign country you’re very much a
soft target to prospective muggers. Before you travel,
try gaining information on the level of risk and most
common theft/scam methods in the country and prepare
for it. Depending on the risk level of the country you’re
visiting, you can start by not dressing like a tourist. Avoid
new and expensive items of clothing, especially footwear
and bags by well-known brands. Also avoid caps and bags
with your tour operator’s logo on it. Looking lost with a
map in hand will also attract unwanted attention from
local opportunists!
Losing important documents
Let’s face it, without your travel documentation, you’re
lost in a foreign country. Make copies of passports, tickets,
hotel information, travel insurance documents, your
driver’s licence etc. to protect yourself against theft or
losing these important documents. Make sure you keep
them separate from the real documents. Many travellers
choose to scan these documents and email them to a
friend or relative so they can be easily retrieved.
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