This On Call International article will discuss the following:
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- How thoughtful pre-travel preparation can help travelers reduce safety risks before an international trip, highlighting the importance of researching local laws, cultural expectations, religious customs, current events, and other destination-specific considerations.
- The knowledge and awareness travelers should “pack” alongside their physical belongings, including basic local language skills, situational awareness, an understanding of local financial resources, and familiarity with areas or activities that may present elevated risks.
- How creating a clear arrival plan can contribute to safer and smoother travels abroad, emphasizing the importance of planning transportation from airports or stations, understanding the local environment, identifying appropriate financial resources, and considering factors such as daylight hours when navigating an unfamiliar destination.
Check out this useful travel safety packing list from On Call Global Security Specialist Johanna Hartnett to learn what to physically and mindfully pack for safer and smoother travels abroad:
To Mindfully Pack:
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Cultural & Local Knowledge
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Local laws (LGBTQ+ attitudes & laws, drinking age)
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Important religious celebrations & upcoming events
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Local cuisine, especially if you have dietary restrictions
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Current levels of Unrest, demonstrations, and protests
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Local Language – Basic Knowledge to Aid in Navigation
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“Where is the….” ‘Bathroom, hospital, police station’
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“May I have” “Please” “Thank you”
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“I need help”
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Situational Awareness – noted risks of all cities on itinerary/advised ‘no-go areas’
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Financial Resources – currency, exchange rate, availability/locations of safe ATMS (hotels, banks etc.)
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An Arrival Plan:
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How will you be getting from the airport/station to your accommodation?
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Sunrise and sunset times – the crime rate in many areas increases after dark, so knowing the sunrise and sunset times is an easy way to avoid undesirable places
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Want to Learn More?
For over 25 years, On Call International has provided fully-customized travel risk management and global assistance services protecting millions of travelers, their families, and their organizations. Contact us today to learn more. You can also stay in touch with On Call’s in-house risk management, travel health and security experts by signing up for our quarterly Travel Risk Management (TRM) newsletter.
