SAFETY & SECURITY WHILE TRAVELLING
At the airport
Never leave your luggage unattended. Keep an especially close watch on laptop computers.
Keep luggage locked except when checking baggage onto flights (latest recommendation is not to lock bags as they may be searched by security). Instead use plastic ties.
Do not get distracted when going through security checkpoints at airports. Keep watching your bags.
Remove any items that are hanging off your luggage and could get caught on conveyor belts.
Put a trip itinerary in your luggage to increase the possibility of your bags being returned to you if lost.
Use a bright marking on your luggage to easily identify it.
If an airline loses your items make a claim before you leave the airport; some will not honour claims made after you have left the airport.
Carry a list of all your items in your carry-on and leave one at home, to help you make a full claim if your items go missing.
Destinations
Research the countries you are visiting in advance to know of any particular risks you face.
www.bupa-intl.travel-guides.com very useful background information
www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk health information available customised for your trip.
Know the local laws and customs, respect and abide by them.
Dress conservatively and try to blend in. Dont advertise you are a tourist
Valuables
Where possible use safety deposit boxes or room safes.
Use a money belt in preference to a wallet or handbag. Keep it out of sight under your clothing. Take your valuables and important documents with you unless you can leave them securely at your hotel.
If on the beach or at the pool use a waterproof belt or bag and keep it with you.
Dont display large amounts of cash. Carry only enough cash for the day and leave the rest in the hotel safe.
Dont leave cards, money or valuable items, eg cameras, on display in your hotel room.
Dont leave items on display in cars. Ensure your car is always locked when you leave it.
Never leave your luggage unattended or take your eyes off your bags.
If you are the victim of a theft make any report to the police as soon as possible. You will need it for insurance purposes.
Safety
Be careful about sharing your travel plans with strangers.
If possible stick to the main roads and avoid narrow alleys and/or poorly lit streets.
Only use taxis, tours and other transportation services with official markings. Only select transportation from official pickup points.
Never accept gifts or packages from unknown parties.
Be wary of "special deals", especially if you have to go off the beaten path to get them.
Women should take extra care. Avoid traveling alone if possible.
Avoid pickpockets
Avoid narrow alleys or poorly lit streets
When possible, avoid having crowds of people surrounding you.
Use a body belt hidden money under your clothes.
Avoid eager to please locals
Well used pickpocket ruses to distract your attention
Getting bumped by someone.
Having something spilled on you or someone pointing out a spot on your clothing.
Someone approaching you asking for help or directions.
A disturbance that draws everyones attention.
Someone drops something and you bend down to pick it up.
Beggars
Being surrounded by a crowd, especially if you are surrounded by groups of children.
Important documents and cash
Carry these in two or more locations. Unless everything gets stolen, you'll have some money and papers that will make it easier, and give you the time, to replace what was stolen.