Identity Hacking, Incarceration & Violent Attacks: Travel Scares

While making travel arrangements is usually associated with fun and adventure, many people overlook planning for worst case scenarios. Travellers should arrange contingency plans between passengers and familiarize themselves with their destinations. This is particularly true when traveling abroad, but even traveling a few states over comes with risks. Do not develop a false sense of security when vacation begins.

Identity Theft

Travelers become susceptible to identity theft the moment a traveler starts booking a trip. Through an non-secure site, identity thieves can steal credit card information, addresses, names, social security numbers, and birth dates. If thieves obtain travel dates, they become knowledgeable of the time frame a home is unoccupied. Using software like Life lock can help prevent identity theft before the trip begins.

Theft of Valuables

Travelers who are going to wear nice jewelry should do so during the day and only in crowded low crime areas. A decoy wallet comes in handy in the event of a robbery or mugging. Keep a minimum amount of cash in it and hand it over if a robbery occurs. Do not argue with a criminal or refuse to hand over valuables. Vagabond Journey offers up a stealth trick and recommends travellers keep a large bill pinned on the inside of clothes in case of a robbery. It won’t be a total loss in the unfortunate event that your wallet (or decoy) is stolen. At least you’ll have money for cab fare or food.

Loss of Documentation

Losing travel documents is a nightmare when traveling abroad. According to Lonely Planet, the old method of keeping copies in luggage is no longer effective. Instead, scan all documents and store them securely online. This way, they can be accessed from anywhere with an Internet connection. Also, be sure to sign up with the State Department when traveling abroad. This enables them to verify arrangements and be better prepared if a problem arises.

Arrest and Incarceration

There is a reason why foreign arrests and imprisonment are popular fodder for drama films. A traveler can break the law grievously without knowing it. Get familiar with local laws before traveling out of the country. Not only that, if you’re traveling abroad, be sure you understand the culture, etiquette, and any other customs that might be different from your own. One man’s joke is another man’s insult. Don’t find yourself in this awkward – or potentially criminal – situation. If you have a list of contacts, be sure the American Embassy is one of them.

Violent Attacks

Violent attacks from rape to assault are possible anywhere, but having it happen far from home can be traumatizing. Avoid violent attacks by traveling in groups and staying in at night. Know which locations are particularly prone to violent attacks and avoid them. Taking some self-defense lessons before traveling the world does not hurt, either.

A little bit of planning goes a long way when it comes to travel. Bring relevant phone numbers, such as the State Department and Consulate. Program important numbers in cell phones and keep them with travel documents. Make sure everyone in the group knows all of the safety rules that need to be in place and plan an emergency meeting location in every area on the trip in case the group gets separated. Preparation can save a lot of hassle in the unlikely event that the worst-case scenario happens.