Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 1. 2020 | Page 25

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. Page 24