Taking precautions to stay safe when exploring your backyard is just as important for international travel as it is for domestic travel. These tips will keep you safe and have fun without taking unnecessary risks.
1. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy
You may overlook it, but hydration and proper nutrition are the first line of defence against fatigue.
Pack snacks that will not melt or spoil, whether you are on the highway or exploring nearby trails.
A cranky and dehydrated traveller poses a serious risk to their health. These people are also not fun to be with.
My Pro Tip: Grab electrolyte packets for longer trips. They can be lifesavers if you run out of gas.
2. Avoid night travel in unfamiliar areas
It may sound exciting to drive or explore at night, but there are additional risks. Visibility is reduced, wildlife is more active, and unfamiliar roads quickly become a maze.
Plan your route, avoid areas that are not well-lit, and always let someone know your destination.
You can always wait until the morning to grab a midnight snack!
3. Keep your phone charged
The modern traveller’s worst nightmare is a dead phone. Your smartphone is a must-have on the road. It’s a tool for navigation, emergency calls and more.
Carry a portable charger and/or power bank with you when you start your trip.
If you are road-tripping, a car charger is a must. Don’t be stuck in the middle with a low battery warning.
4. You should trust your instincts
It’s probably not right if something feels off. Please don’t ignore the gut feeling you get when it comes to a shady gas station, a dark alley or a roadside vendor who seems too good to be true.
Overreacting and moving on is better than regretting staying in a bad situation.
Confidence, awareness and safe travel go hand-in-hand. Trust yourself and take action accordingly.
5. Tell someone you trust about your travel plans
Let someone know about your travel plans before you leave. Tell someone about your itinerary, including your arrival time, planned stops and accommodations.
Keep them up to date if plans change. This simple step can be a game changer if you have to deal with an unexpected event.
Having a backup plan and someone who knows the route you are taking adds another layer of safety.
Here are my last safety tips for travellers in 2025.
