For many people, travelling alone is an experience they don’t even want to contemplate. Just the thought of navigating a foreign place alone makes some people anxious and turns them off foreign travel. But going solo can be a liberating experience that can offer a new sense of freedom. You won’t have to compromise and you can do exactly what you want, when you want. Your accomplishments will be more exciting and everything will be a learning experience.
There are plenty of reasons it’s worthwhile travelling alone, but if you are considering doing it, your travel health and safety is a common concern. The good news is, staying safe is possible even when you’re on your own and in a foreign place. Taking a few simple precautions will help to make your trip both safe and enjoyable.
Learn More about Your Destination
Research the place you’re visiting to know which areas or cities are safe and which have a reputation for high crime rates. Keep in mind that most tourist hotspots can be a magnet for pickpockets and other criminals who are looking to take advantage of the unwary. Find out what locals or other travellers recommend when navigating certain areas.
It is also important to learn about the local culture, social norms, and behaviours that differ from what you know. Also, don’t forget to investigate the weather and health hazards associated with your destination. Find out if there are any disease outbreaks and necessary travel vaccinations, as well as the type of natural disasters that can occur at your destination.
Safeguard Your Health
Consult a specialist provider of medical services and health advice for those travelling abroad. This is so you can get proper immunisations well in advance of your departure, and understand prevention strategies for tropical diseases. A travel health specialist will recommend vaccinations (like hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations) according to your travel details, length of stay, and medical history.
Obtaining travel insurance from a reliable company is also essential to cover yourself against travel risks and unexpected medical expenses. You might also want to keep a kit of health supplies like insect repellent, personal care items, travel medicines, and a first aid kit.
Let Others Know About Your Itinerary
Create copies of your itinerary and give it to at least two family members or close friends. You should also stay connected with your family or friends through text or email to let them know how you’re doing. Make sure that someone you trust has your contact information, name of hotel you’ll be staying, and other important details. You should also make copies of your paperwork like passport and IDs in case you are robbed. Register your travel through the smartraveller website – that way Australian authorities know where to find you in case of a family emergency, or a natural disaster.
Be Conscious of Your Surroundings
When you are on your own in a foreign country, be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. While it is okay to meet new people and engage in casual conversations, you shouldn’t let everyone know that you are travelling alone. Furthermore, avoid strolling the streets late at night, and always stay in public places or spots where there are other people around.
Secure Your Valuables
Take precautions to protect yourself and your possessions by keeping money and cards in separate places or the hotel safe. When visiting tourist spots, it is best to carry only a copy of your passport and bring only the amount of money you think you’ll need. It is also good idea to travel light, as carrying lots of luggage and valuables can attract thieves and pickpockets.
Travelvax is the name you can trust for travel immunisations and vaccinations. We provide travel health advice and medical health services, as well as a one-stop travel health consultation. We offer vaccinations for travel-related diseases and preventative and treatment medication to ensure that you are safe. For more information about our travel health services and solutions, get in touch with us.
Travelvax Pty Ltd
1/85 O'Riordan St, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia
Phone: +61 3 0036 0164
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