How to Stay Safe While Backpacking the World
Backpacking around the world invites spontaneity, which can lead to incredible experiences you couldn’t have even imagined. But travelling with a lack of direction invites risks.
Unfamiliar environments present various health and safety challenges that should be taken seriously if you want to ensure a successful trip. A little planning can go a long way towards keeping you protected, without compromising your freedom to travel as the mood strikes you.
Conduct a Quick Destination Check
Before you set off, spend time researching the destinations you’re planning to visit. The government website has a specific section dedicated to travel advice. It’s always kept up to date with official advice and warnings for most countries, including security and health risks, legal differences, and entry requirements. Taking just five minutes to read through the information given will ensure you’re prepared wherever you go and meet mandatory vaccination requirements. It’ll also make you aware of any areas to avoid and tell you where the nearest embassy is in the event of an issue.
Generally knowing the local customs and culture will also enable you to navigate new places with confidence. You’ll avoid accidentally being offensive and be better able to communicate needs and blend in with the crowds.
Be Smart with Using Your Devices
In many ways, your devices will help to keep you safe but using them in public puts you at risk of theft. This includes both physical theft and cybercriminals stealing your personal data. Being smart with where and how you use them will improve your security.
Public Wi-Fi networks are often vulnerable to cyberattacks, which means sensitive information such as bank details or passwords could be easily stolen. If you need to connect your laptop to a public network, it’s wise to use a free VPN for PC. A similar thing for your phone is also recommended, in order to encrypt your connection and make it harder for data to be intercepted. You should also set strong, unique passwords for each account and add two-factor authentication wherever possible as a second line of defence.
Pack Essential Safety Equipment
Ensure you leave space for essential safety equipment alongside your clothes, toiletries and portable entertainment. These can be invaluable in supporting your well-being if you find yourself in a bind.
A basic first aid kit is one of the first things you should include, even if you only plan on doing gentle activities in cities. It should include wound dressings and plasters, antiseptic wipes, painkillers and antihistamine tablets, Imodium and rehydration sachets and any personal medication you might need. If you’ll be doing adventure activities, a torch and a whistle are key for attracting attention should you need help.
Carrying a portable charger can also be beneficial, as your smartphone is your way of connecting with the wider world in the event of an emergency, and keeping the battery topped up while on the go can be challenging.
Apply Sensible Precautions
You shouldn’t assume the worst, but you should be vigilant and aware of risks. Adopting a few smart habits can make all the difference in ensuring your safety.
Avoid walking alone after dark in unfamiliar areas and always keep your belongings within reach. If you’re in a city, keep your wallet or valuables in a front pocket or money belt to make it harder for pickpockets to target you. Wherever you are, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and seek help or change plans if something feels off.
Consider health risks too. Something as innocent as drinking the tap water can leave you severely unwell in some countries. Research local food safety guidelines and consider drinking bottled or purified water throughout the trip. Also, carry a bottle of hand sanitiser or some disinfectant wipes to minimise exposure to germs. Having travel insurance that covers health issues can save you considerable hassle and expense should something go wrong.
