safety Archives - Traveler Dreams Traveler Dreams Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:08:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://travelerdreams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png safety Archives - Traveler Dreams 32 32 Tips to Remember to Avoid Being Pickpocketed https://travelerdreams.com/tips-to-remember-to-avoid-being-pickpocketed/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:40:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=26514 It’s a sad truth that some people will take advantage of others, and pickpocketing is a common crime in certain cities and locations around the world. Here are some things to remember to try to avoid this happening to you. Use a Bag With a Secure Fastening While moving through crowds, it’s not always easy […]

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]]> It’s a sad truth that some people will take advantage of others, and pickpocketing is a common crime in certain cities and locations around the world. Here are some things to remember to try to avoid this happening to you.

Use a Bag With a Secure Fastening

While moving through crowds, it’s not always easy to keep an eye on your belongings. If your bag is securely fastened with a zip and doesn’t have any gaps, then this will avoid people being able to easily reach in without you noticing. 

Don’t Carry Your Phone Around

A classic trick is to swipe someone’s phone when they’re a bit distracted. It might seem helpful to hold it while wandering along to check your route, but you have no defenses if someone grabs it and runs. Draw yourself a map or write out directions to help with navigation. 

Have Precious Items Spaced Apart

In the unfortunate event that you are pickpocketed, it’s so much worse if all of your belongings are taken. Try spreading your money about across yourself, such as having a money belt as well as a wallet. If one stash is taken then you won’t be so stuck. 

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]]> How to Protect Yourself from Bedbugs While Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/how-to-protect-yourself-from-bedbugs-while-traveling/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:37:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=25996 The internet has been abuzz over the last few weeks with the news of a bedbug infestation taking over Paris. Locals and tourists have shared videos of the insects crawling around everywhere from hotel beds to movie theater seats. While concern about the outbreak is absolutely justified, this is not the first time that bedbugs […]

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]]> The internet has been abuzz over the last few weeks with the news of a bedbug infestation taking over Paris. Locals and tourists have shared videos of the insects crawling around everywhere from hotel beds to movie theater seats. While concern about the outbreak is absolutely justified, this is not the first time that bedbugs have taken over a particular city, and it likely won’t be the last. Whether you’re planning a trip to Paris any time soon or just want to understand how to avoid bedbugs in general, read on for a few tips to help keep you safe.

Inspect Your Accommodation

As soon as you arrive, thoroughly inspect your hotel room or Airbnb for any signs of bed bugs. Check the bed under the sheets, in folds of the mattress, and behind headboards as well as in any other upholstered furniture. Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects about the size of apple seeds and can usually be detected by dark spots of excrement or blood, even if the bugs themselves aren’t visible. 

Keep Your Luggage Elevated

Avoid placing your luggage on the floor or bed until you’ve finished inspecting the rest of the space. Instead, use luggage racks or keep them on hard, non-porous surfaces like tables or dressers where bugs are less likely to hide. 

Wash Your Clothes

When you return from your travels, wash your clothes in hot water and dry them on the highest heat setting to kill any potential bed bugs or eggs that may be hiding in the fabric. This is especially important for dirty clothes that may have touched the bed or floor of your accommodation but also goes for clean clothes that stayed in your suitcase.

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]]> Essential Tips to Stay Safe While Camping https://travelerdreams.com/essential-tips-to-stay-safe-while-camping/ Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:44:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=25776 Camping is an incredibly fun activity for the whole family, or for a big group of friends. However, before you embark on a trip to the great outdoors, make sure you stay safe with the following tips. Choosing Your Campsite Before you even head outdoors, do some research on your potential campsites to check for […]

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]]> Camping is an incredibly fun activity for the whole family, or for a big group of friends. However, before you embark on a trip to the great outdoors, make sure you stay safe with the following tips.

Choosing Your Campsite

Before you even head outdoors, do some research on your potential campsites to check for any abnormal weather alerts or wildlife activity happening in the area. Read up on the terrain conditions, opting for established campsites with designated fire pits when possible. Within your chosen campsite, set up your things away from low-lying areas that may be prone to flash flooding, keeping safe distance from any cliffs or steep slopes.

Fire Safety

Campfires are a central part of camping, but they’re also the most dangerous if not managed properly. Research any regulations or restrictions at your campsite in advance, and once you’ve arrived, thoroughly clear the area around the fire pit of any flammable debris. Have a few gallons of water nearby just in case, and never leave a fire unattended. Make sure the fire and any embers are extinguished before you to go sleep or leave the campsite.

Wildlife Awareness

Encountering animals up close can be exciting, but it’s important to remember that even the cutest critters are still wild animals. To avoid attracting any unwanted visitors, keep food stored securely in bear-resistant containers or hung from a tree. Learn about the local wildlife and their habits, and resist the temptation to get too close if you come across them. For extra protection, consider carrying bear spray or a homemade vinegar-based repellent.

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]]> Tips for Planning Your First Solo Trip https://travelerdreams.com/tips-for-planning-your-first-solo-trip/ Fri, 11 Aug 2023 16:39:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=24961 Traveling alone can be fulfilling and exciting in ways you won’t find while traveling with others. Venturing to a new place by yourself will inevitably bring plenty of opportunities for growth and self-discovery, not to mention the complete freedom that comes with not having to consider anyone else’s needs. All of that being said, it’s […]

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]]> Traveling alone can be fulfilling and exciting in ways you won’t find while traveling with others. Venturing to a new place by yourself will inevitably bring plenty of opportunities for growth and self-discovery, not to mention the complete freedom that comes with not having to consider anyone else’s needs. All of that being said, it’s important to do your research and plan all elements of your trip carefully in order to stay safe and make the most of your experience. Read on for some of our best solo travel tips.

Research Your Destination Thoroughly

Some locations are more solo traveler-friendly than others, so take your time planning and do extensive research on potential destinations to see which ones feel appropriate for you. Read up on the culture, customs, and laws of your chosen place, and try to find other solo travelers who’ve been there and can share any insights. 

Have a Plan

While you don’t need to create a jam-packed itinerary for yourself (unless you want to), putting together a loose plan of the sights you’d like to see, landmarks you’d like to visit, and even restaurants you’d like to eat at can help make solo travel feel less overwhelming. Use Google Maps or a similar app to familiarize yourself with their respective locations, and research local transportation options to figure out how to reach them.

Stay Connected

Where safety is concerned, we highly recommend keeping in contact with a trusted friend or family member while traveling solo. Talk with them before you leave and create a plan for how often they should expect you to check in, and give them the number for your accommodations and local authorities to contact if they don’t hear from you after a certain period of time.

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]]> How to Protect Yourself from Pickpockets While Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/how-to-protect-yourself-from-pickpockets-while-traveling/ Tue, 25 Jul 2023 10:20:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=24747 Whether you’re an experienced explorer or planning your first trip abroad, there are few things that put a damper on traveling more than having your wallet or passport stolen. In many locations, pickpockets will hang around crowded areas and wait to snatch the valuables of unsuspecting tourists. While the majority of these places are otherwise […]

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]]> Whether you’re an experienced explorer or planning your first trip abroad, there are few things that put a damper on traveling more than having your wallet or passport stolen. In many locations, pickpockets will hang around crowded areas and wait to snatch the valuables of unsuspecting tourists. While the majority of these places are otherwise quite safe, it’s essential to protect your belongings in order to avoid danger and ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible. Read on for some of our best tips on how to keep pickpockets at bay. 

Secure your valuables

Keep your wallet and other important items somewhere difficult for pickpockets to access, especially when you plan to visit busy tourist spots or use public transport. If your accommodations offer a safe, leave anything you don’t need locked inside when you go out, and invest in an anti-theft backpack to take with you.

Be mindful of your surroundings

Staying alert and aware of your surroundings is key when it comes to avoiding pickpocketing attempts, especially near tourist attractions and public transport terminals. In some locations, pickpockets will work in teams that may even include children, so be on the lookout for unexpected distractions and exercise caution should you notice anyone start to approach you.

Use decoys

The goal of most pickpockets is to work discretely and come away with your valuables unnoticed. They don’t want to spend a long time searching and put themselves at risk of getting caught, so keeping a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash and expired cards in a more accessible place can help you to protect your more valuable belongings.

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]]> Watch Out for Pickpockets When Visiting This European Country https://travelerdreams.com/watch-out-for-pickpockets-when-visiting-this-european-country/ Fri, 14 Apr 2023 08:34:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=23129 You’ve just found the most delightful little gelato place in Rome. You order a scoop of fior de latte, but as you reach for your purse, you find that it’s not there. You didn’t leave it at the hotel; you had it a minute ago on the bus… Sadly, that scenario, or ones like it, have […]

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]]> You’ve just found the most delightful little gelato place in Rome. You order a scoop of fior de latte, but as you reach for your purse, you find that it’s not there. You didn’t leave it at the hotel; you had it a minute ago on the bus…

Sadly, that scenario, or ones like it, have happened far too many times to far too many people. Pickpocketing is one of the oldest tricks in the book and can happen anywhere in the world. But, according to a recent study by a British insurance company, some European countries are worse than others.

The European Pickpocketing Index by Quotezone.co.uk found that petty theft was worst in Italy. Spots like the famous Trevi Fountain in Rome are hotspots for sneaky thieves. 

Other countries to be aware of include France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Greece.

“Theft can happen anywhere and tourist hotspots are convenient places for criminals to target (people’s) wallets and purses whilst they are busy taking in the sites,” said the founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, Greg Wilson. “Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Trevi Fountain in Rome are particularly popular with pickpockets as they can move more inconspicuously amongst larger crowds”.

So just remember, next time you’re traveling, to always keep your wits about you while taking it all in. 

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]]> 3 Safety Products for Peace of Mind While Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/3-safety-products-for-peace-of-mind-while-traveling/ Tue, 28 Mar 2023 08:19:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=22914 There are so many things to love about travel: exploring new places, tasting different cuisines, and experiencing diverse cultures. With all of that in mind, it’s important to remember that traveling is not without risks. Pickpocketing is an issue in many locations, and as much as we’d like to think that all of our things […]

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]]> There are so many things to love about travel: exploring new places, tasting different cuisines, and experiencing diverse cultures. With all of that in mind, it’s important to remember that traveling is not without risks. Pickpocketing is an issue in many locations, and as much as we’d like to think that all of our things are safe in a hotel room, nothing is ever guaranteed.

While it’s always best to be cautious, there’s no reason to let fear keep you at home. A few simple gadgets can help you stay safe so that you’re able to relax and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Here are a few we always bring with us.

Birdie

Birdie is an easy-to-use personal safety alarm small enough to fit in your pocket or handbag. If you find yourself in danger, simply pull out the top pin to activate an alarm loud enough to draw attention and scare off any potential threats. Once the danger has passed, turn it off by putting the pin back into place.

Addalock

This lightweight and portable lock fits most inward-swinging doors and installs in seconds without any tools. It even comes with a handy storage pouch for easy carrying. Use it to protect your belongings and stay safe in hotels or Airbnb.

Pacsafe

Pacsafe makes travel-friendly bags with anti-theft features such as lockable zippers and slash-resistant fabric. They’re perfect for protecting important items such as passports and can be used as a makeshift safe if your accommodation doesn’t provide one.

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]]> Check Out These Awesome Passport Safety Tips https://travelerdreams.com/check-out-these-awesome-passport-safety-tips/ Fri, 05 Nov 2021 08:38:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=15623 A passport is one thing that you absolutely must have for when you travel, such that if it got lost, stolen, or forgotten, your trip wouldn’t only be ruined, but you would be entirely out of luck. So what can you do to make sure that this nightmare scenario doesn’t happen? Here are some passport […]

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]]> A passport is one thing that you absolutely must have for when you travel, such that if it got lost, stolen, or forgotten, your trip wouldn’t only be ruined, but you would be entirely out of luck. So what can you do to make sure that this nightmare scenario doesn’t happen? Here are some passport safety tips to follow.

Use an RFID Blocking Sleeve

To protect your passport from potentially being scanned and read by somebody with nefarious intentions, you can keep it in an RFID blocking sleeve, which also has the added advantage of adding physical protection from damage or from being easily spotted as a passport by a potential thief.

Keep Copies

If you want to be the safest you can possibly be, print out a copy of your passport, laminate it, and keep it in your wallet. In fact, do this with a few copies kept in multiple places so you don’t have to worry about ever being without one. Beyond that, keep an online copy that you can easily access for emergencies.

Leave a Copy With Someone You Trust

If there is ever (knock on wood) an emergency in which you aren’t capable of or available to find copies of your passport, keeping one with somebody you trust can be a lifesaver.

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]]> How Not to Fall for Scams When Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/how-not-to-fall-for-scams-when-traveling/ Sat, 14 Nov 2020 09:15:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=9540 Let’s be real, people like to take advantage of tourists. Some people stick to just overcharging for tours and food, but others take things so far as to be scams. It’s a reality of traveling, but as long as you’re smart, you can avoid it. Here’s how. Beware of People Offering Help If a stranger […]

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]]> Let’s be real, people like to take advantage of tourists. Some people stick to just overcharging for tours and food, but others take things so far as to be scams. It’s a reality of traveling, but as long as you’re smart, you can avoid it. Here’s how.

Beware of People Offering Help

If a stranger approaches you on the street and offers you help in the form of advice, invitations, or discounts, they’re probably scamming you. Your best bet is to only accept help from official employees of places you visit.

Do the Math

It’s easy to get scammed if you never add up your total, calculate your tip, or look at your receipts—and that’s exactly what scammers are counting on you doing. So always take the extra time to take a careful look at your bills and receipts before paying.

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Dreaming of a new travel destination? Even though the number of travelers went down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, #FTC has received over 5,000 travel-related fraud complaints. Scammers found a way to ruin your trip even before you get on board. Find a list of the most common online travel scams is 2020 and watch out! Fake Airline Agents Want to change or cancel your reservation due to new restrictions? Scammers post their phone numbers pretending to be official airline representatives and assure you that you are eligible for future travel credit, but not a refund. After sharing your reservation details your reservation more likely will be canceled and the electronic travel certificates will be issued to the fraudsters. If you want to make any changes in your reservation, make sure you are using the number or the email address mentioned in your tickets or the company’s official website. Fake Travel Insurance Policies Booking a trip during pandemics is a bit risky, so the majority of travelers are looking for the most advanced travel insurance. To purchase an insurance that will cover your expenses on a trip no matter what, you need to buy a plan with a ‘cancel for any reason’ upgrade. Also, keep in mind that this upgrade is normally quite pricy and could be purchased maximum within two or free weeks after booking your trip. Make sure that you are buying a policy directly from a licensed company and stay away from the companies offering cancel for any reason coverage for no extra cost. Learn more about COVID-19 travel insurance and make sure you always fully read the policy before buying. Vacation Rental Discounts Don’t agree on transferring money directly to the owner even if he offers a huge discount on your reservation. Stick to proven booking services and avoid any wire transfers. Once you wire your money, the owner has no liability and might just disappear. #onlinetrading #binary #binaryoptions #broker #firm #money #chargebacks #fundrecovery #privatebanking #consult #chargeback #fundrecovery #moneyback #refund #refunds #crypto #bitcoin #tradingonline #onlinescams #scams #forexscams #tradingscams #DatingScam #petscam #travelscam #airlinescams

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Be Wary of Distractions

If something on the street happens that draws your attention—somebody falling over and loudly yelling, a fight breaking out, or a child asking you for money or to sign a petition—it’s likely just an attempt to distract you while somebody looks for an open pocket or a bag to grab. Be extra vigilant whenever a situation like this comes up.

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]]> Hiking Safety: 3 Items to Bring In Case of Emergency https://travelerdreams.com/hiking-safety-3-items-to-bring-in-case-of-emergency/ Sat, 14 Nov 2020 09:04:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=9851 Even seasoned hikers are prone to accidents. Emergency planning is an integral part of planning for any extended hike, so we thought we’d highlight some important items to bring with you for safety while you’re on the trail. Whether it is planning for a broken leg or getting lost—it is important to account for any […]

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]]> Even seasoned hikers are prone to accidents. Emergency planning is an integral part of planning for any extended hike, so we thought we’d highlight some important items to bring with you for safety while you’re on the trail.

Whether it is planning for a broken leg or getting lost—it is important to account for any scenario. So here are 3 must-have items to bring with you on your trek. Please make sure you know what to do with each item. Even if you have what you need, you also have to know how to use it properly!

Mirror

A mirror seems like a weird thing to bring with you on the trail, but it is actually one of the most important survival items we have at our disposal. In the case of emergency, most search parties will be sent help from the air. However, foliage can make you difficult to spot. With a mirror, you can reflect sunlight or searchlights to signal for help. The signal for SOS is three short flashes, three long flashes, three short flashes. You can also use a mirror to start a fire.

Extra Water

While food is important, water is the key to survival. Humans can only survive for three days without water. Therefore, it is always important to bring extra water. It is recommended you drink two liters of water daily when you are not hiking, but you should drink about a half a liter for every hour you are. If you are on an extended hike, we recommend you bring an extra two liters in case of emergency—it is worth carrying the extra weight. You can also bring Iodine tablets to purify water from a stream.

Fire Starter

Making a fire is one of the most important things to do first in case of an emergency. For one, the smoke and flames will alert anyone in the air or the immediate area to your presence. And of course, it is important to stay warm at night and keep predators away. If you are in an emergency situation, you should not move location! It is important to stay where you are. Today, you can buy wind- and water-proof lighters and fire starters that can save lives.

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]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> safety Archives - Traveler Dreams Traveler Dreams Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:08:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://travelerdreams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png safety Archives - Traveler Dreams 32 32 Tips to Remember to Avoid Being Pickpocketed https://travelerdreams.com/tips-to-remember-to-avoid-being-pickpocketed/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:40:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=26514 It’s a sad truth that some people will take advantage of others, and pickpocketing is a common crime in certain cities and locations around the world. Here are some things to remember to try to avoid this happening to you. Use a Bag With a Secure Fastening While moving through crowds, it’s not always easy […]

The post Tips to Remember to Avoid Being Pickpocketed appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> It’s a sad truth that some people will take advantage of others, and pickpocketing is a common crime in certain cities and locations around the world. Here are some things to remember to try to avoid this happening to you.

Use a Bag With a Secure Fastening

While moving through crowds, it’s not always easy to keep an eye on your belongings. If your bag is securely fastened with a zip and doesn’t have any gaps, then this will avoid people being able to easily reach in without you noticing. 

Don’t Carry Your Phone Around

A classic trick is to swipe someone’s phone when they’re a bit distracted. It might seem helpful to hold it while wandering along to check your route, but you have no defenses if someone grabs it and runs. Draw yourself a map or write out directions to help with navigation. 

Have Precious Items Spaced Apart

In the unfortunate event that you are pickpocketed, it’s so much worse if all of your belongings are taken. Try spreading your money about across yourself, such as having a money belt as well as a wallet. If one stash is taken then you won’t be so stuck. 

The post Tips to Remember to Avoid Being Pickpocketed appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> How to Protect Yourself from Bedbugs While Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/how-to-protect-yourself-from-bedbugs-while-traveling/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:37:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=25996 The internet has been abuzz over the last few weeks with the news of a bedbug infestation taking over Paris. Locals and tourists have shared videos of the insects crawling around everywhere from hotel beds to movie theater seats. While concern about the outbreak is absolutely justified, this is not the first time that bedbugs […]

The post How to Protect Yourself from Bedbugs While Traveling appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> The internet has been abuzz over the last few weeks with the news of a bedbug infestation taking over Paris. Locals and tourists have shared videos of the insects crawling around everywhere from hotel beds to movie theater seats. While concern about the outbreak is absolutely justified, this is not the first time that bedbugs have taken over a particular city, and it likely won’t be the last. Whether you’re planning a trip to Paris any time soon or just want to understand how to avoid bedbugs in general, read on for a few tips to help keep you safe.

Inspect Your Accommodation

As soon as you arrive, thoroughly inspect your hotel room or Airbnb for any signs of bed bugs. Check the bed under the sheets, in folds of the mattress, and behind headboards as well as in any other upholstered furniture. Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects about the size of apple seeds and can usually be detected by dark spots of excrement or blood, even if the bugs themselves aren’t visible. 

Keep Your Luggage Elevated

Avoid placing your luggage on the floor or bed until you’ve finished inspecting the rest of the space. Instead, use luggage racks or keep them on hard, non-porous surfaces like tables or dressers where bugs are less likely to hide. 

Wash Your Clothes

When you return from your travels, wash your clothes in hot water and dry them on the highest heat setting to kill any potential bed bugs or eggs that may be hiding in the fabric. This is especially important for dirty clothes that may have touched the bed or floor of your accommodation but also goes for clean clothes that stayed in your suitcase.

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]]> Essential Tips to Stay Safe While Camping https://travelerdreams.com/essential-tips-to-stay-safe-while-camping/ Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:44:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=25776 Camping is an incredibly fun activity for the whole family, or for a big group of friends. However, before you embark on a trip to the great outdoors, make sure you stay safe with the following tips. Choosing Your Campsite Before you even head outdoors, do some research on your potential campsites to check for […]

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]]> Camping is an incredibly fun activity for the whole family, or for a big group of friends. However, before you embark on a trip to the great outdoors, make sure you stay safe with the following tips.

Choosing Your Campsite

Before you even head outdoors, do some research on your potential campsites to check for any abnormal weather alerts or wildlife activity happening in the area. Read up on the terrain conditions, opting for established campsites with designated fire pits when possible. Within your chosen campsite, set up your things away from low-lying areas that may be prone to flash flooding, keeping safe distance from any cliffs or steep slopes.

Fire Safety

Campfires are a central part of camping, but they’re also the most dangerous if not managed properly. Research any regulations or restrictions at your campsite in advance, and once you’ve arrived, thoroughly clear the area around the fire pit of any flammable debris. Have a few gallons of water nearby just in case, and never leave a fire unattended. Make sure the fire and any embers are extinguished before you to go sleep or leave the campsite.

Wildlife Awareness

Encountering animals up close can be exciting, but it’s important to remember that even the cutest critters are still wild animals. To avoid attracting any unwanted visitors, keep food stored securely in bear-resistant containers or hung from a tree. Learn about the local wildlife and their habits, and resist the temptation to get too close if you come across them. For extra protection, consider carrying bear spray or a homemade vinegar-based repellent.

The post Essential Tips to Stay Safe While Camping appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Tips for Planning Your First Solo Trip https://travelerdreams.com/tips-for-planning-your-first-solo-trip/ Fri, 11 Aug 2023 16:39:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=24961 Traveling alone can be fulfilling and exciting in ways you won’t find while traveling with others. Venturing to a new place by yourself will inevitably bring plenty of opportunities for growth and self-discovery, not to mention the complete freedom that comes with not having to consider anyone else’s needs. All of that being said, it’s […]

The post Tips for Planning Your First Solo Trip appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Traveling alone can be fulfilling and exciting in ways you won’t find while traveling with others. Venturing to a new place by yourself will inevitably bring plenty of opportunities for growth and self-discovery, not to mention the complete freedom that comes with not having to consider anyone else’s needs. All of that being said, it’s important to do your research and plan all elements of your trip carefully in order to stay safe and make the most of your experience. Read on for some of our best solo travel tips.

Research Your Destination Thoroughly

Some locations are more solo traveler-friendly than others, so take your time planning and do extensive research on potential destinations to see which ones feel appropriate for you. Read up on the culture, customs, and laws of your chosen place, and try to find other solo travelers who’ve been there and can share any insights. 

Have a Plan

While you don’t need to create a jam-packed itinerary for yourself (unless you want to), putting together a loose plan of the sights you’d like to see, landmarks you’d like to visit, and even restaurants you’d like to eat at can help make solo travel feel less overwhelming. Use Google Maps or a similar app to familiarize yourself with their respective locations, and research local transportation options to figure out how to reach them.

Stay Connected

Where safety is concerned, we highly recommend keeping in contact with a trusted friend or family member while traveling solo. Talk with them before you leave and create a plan for how often they should expect you to check in, and give them the number for your accommodations and local authorities to contact if they don’t hear from you after a certain period of time.

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]]> How to Protect Yourself from Pickpockets While Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/how-to-protect-yourself-from-pickpockets-while-traveling/ Tue, 25 Jul 2023 10:20:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=24747 Whether you’re an experienced explorer or planning your first trip abroad, there are few things that put a damper on traveling more than having your wallet or passport stolen. In many locations, pickpockets will hang around crowded areas and wait to snatch the valuables of unsuspecting tourists. While the majority of these places are otherwise […]

The post How to Protect Yourself from Pickpockets While Traveling appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Whether you’re an experienced explorer or planning your first trip abroad, there are few things that put a damper on traveling more than having your wallet or passport stolen. In many locations, pickpockets will hang around crowded areas and wait to snatch the valuables of unsuspecting tourists. While the majority of these places are otherwise quite safe, it’s essential to protect your belongings in order to avoid danger and ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible. Read on for some of our best tips on how to keep pickpockets at bay. 

Secure your valuables

Keep your wallet and other important items somewhere difficult for pickpockets to access, especially when you plan to visit busy tourist spots or use public transport. If your accommodations offer a safe, leave anything you don’t need locked inside when you go out, and invest in an anti-theft backpack to take with you.

Be mindful of your surroundings

Staying alert and aware of your surroundings is key when it comes to avoiding pickpocketing attempts, especially near tourist attractions and public transport terminals. In some locations, pickpockets will work in teams that may even include children, so be on the lookout for unexpected distractions and exercise caution should you notice anyone start to approach you.

Use decoys

The goal of most pickpockets is to work discretely and come away with your valuables unnoticed. They don’t want to spend a long time searching and put themselves at risk of getting caught, so keeping a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash and expired cards in a more accessible place can help you to protect your more valuable belongings.

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]]> Watch Out for Pickpockets When Visiting This European Country https://travelerdreams.com/watch-out-for-pickpockets-when-visiting-this-european-country/ Fri, 14 Apr 2023 08:34:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=23129 You’ve just found the most delightful little gelato place in Rome. You order a scoop of fior de latte, but as you reach for your purse, you find that it’s not there. You didn’t leave it at the hotel; you had it a minute ago on the bus… Sadly, that scenario, or ones like it, have […]

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]]> You’ve just found the most delightful little gelato place in Rome. You order a scoop of fior de latte, but as you reach for your purse, you find that it’s not there. You didn’t leave it at the hotel; you had it a minute ago on the bus…

Sadly, that scenario, or ones like it, have happened far too many times to far too many people. Pickpocketing is one of the oldest tricks in the book and can happen anywhere in the world. But, according to a recent study by a British insurance company, some European countries are worse than others.

The European Pickpocketing Index by Quotezone.co.uk found that petty theft was worst in Italy. Spots like the famous Trevi Fountain in Rome are hotspots for sneaky thieves. 

Other countries to be aware of include France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Greece.

“Theft can happen anywhere and tourist hotspots are convenient places for criminals to target (people’s) wallets and purses whilst they are busy taking in the sites,” said the founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, Greg Wilson. “Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Trevi Fountain in Rome are particularly popular with pickpockets as they can move more inconspicuously amongst larger crowds”.

So just remember, next time you’re traveling, to always keep your wits about you while taking it all in. 

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]]> 3 Safety Products for Peace of Mind While Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/3-safety-products-for-peace-of-mind-while-traveling/ Tue, 28 Mar 2023 08:19:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=22914 There are so many things to love about travel: exploring new places, tasting different cuisines, and experiencing diverse cultures. With all of that in mind, it’s important to remember that traveling is not without risks. Pickpocketing is an issue in many locations, and as much as we’d like to think that all of our things […]

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]]> There are so many things to love about travel: exploring new places, tasting different cuisines, and experiencing diverse cultures. With all of that in mind, it’s important to remember that traveling is not without risks. Pickpocketing is an issue in many locations, and as much as we’d like to think that all of our things are safe in a hotel room, nothing is ever guaranteed.

While it’s always best to be cautious, there’s no reason to let fear keep you at home. A few simple gadgets can help you stay safe so that you’re able to relax and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Here are a few we always bring with us.

Birdie

Birdie is an easy-to-use personal safety alarm small enough to fit in your pocket or handbag. If you find yourself in danger, simply pull out the top pin to activate an alarm loud enough to draw attention and scare off any potential threats. Once the danger has passed, turn it off by putting the pin back into place.

Addalock

This lightweight and portable lock fits most inward-swinging doors and installs in seconds without any tools. It even comes with a handy storage pouch for easy carrying. Use it to protect your belongings and stay safe in hotels or Airbnb.

Pacsafe

Pacsafe makes travel-friendly bags with anti-theft features such as lockable zippers and slash-resistant fabric. They’re perfect for protecting important items such as passports and can be used as a makeshift safe if your accommodation doesn’t provide one.

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]]> Check Out These Awesome Passport Safety Tips https://travelerdreams.com/check-out-these-awesome-passport-safety-tips/ Fri, 05 Nov 2021 08:38:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=15623 A passport is one thing that you absolutely must have for when you travel, such that if it got lost, stolen, or forgotten, your trip wouldn’t only be ruined, but you would be entirely out of luck. So what can you do to make sure that this nightmare scenario doesn’t happen? Here are some passport […]

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]]> A passport is one thing that you absolutely must have for when you travel, such that if it got lost, stolen, or forgotten, your trip wouldn’t only be ruined, but you would be entirely out of luck. So what can you do to make sure that this nightmare scenario doesn’t happen? Here are some passport safety tips to follow.

Use an RFID Blocking Sleeve

To protect your passport from potentially being scanned and read by somebody with nefarious intentions, you can keep it in an RFID blocking sleeve, which also has the added advantage of adding physical protection from damage or from being easily spotted as a passport by a potential thief.

Keep Copies

If you want to be the safest you can possibly be, print out a copy of your passport, laminate it, and keep it in your wallet. In fact, do this with a few copies kept in multiple places so you don’t have to worry about ever being without one. Beyond that, keep an online copy that you can easily access for emergencies.

Leave a Copy With Someone You Trust

If there is ever (knock on wood) an emergency in which you aren’t capable of or available to find copies of your passport, keeping one with somebody you trust can be a lifesaver.

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]]> How Not to Fall for Scams When Traveling https://travelerdreams.com/how-not-to-fall-for-scams-when-traveling/ Sat, 14 Nov 2020 09:15:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=9540 Let’s be real, people like to take advantage of tourists. Some people stick to just overcharging for tours and food, but others take things so far as to be scams. It’s a reality of traveling, but as long as you’re smart, you can avoid it. Here’s how. Beware of People Offering Help If a stranger […]

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]]> Let’s be real, people like to take advantage of tourists. Some people stick to just overcharging for tours and food, but others take things so far as to be scams. It’s a reality of traveling, but as long as you’re smart, you can avoid it. Here’s how.

Beware of People Offering Help

If a stranger approaches you on the street and offers you help in the form of advice, invitations, or discounts, they’re probably scamming you. Your best bet is to only accept help from official employees of places you visit.

Do the Math

It’s easy to get scammed if you never add up your total, calculate your tip, or look at your receipts—and that’s exactly what scammers are counting on you doing. So always take the extra time to take a careful look at your bills and receipts before paying.

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Dreaming of a new travel destination? Even though the number of travelers went down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, #FTC has received over 5,000 travel-related fraud complaints. Scammers found a way to ruin your trip even before you get on board. Find a list of the most common online travel scams is 2020 and watch out! Fake Airline Agents Want to change or cancel your reservation due to new restrictions? Scammers post their phone numbers pretending to be official airline representatives and assure you that you are eligible for future travel credit, but not a refund. After sharing your reservation details your reservation more likely will be canceled and the electronic travel certificates will be issued to the fraudsters. If you want to make any changes in your reservation, make sure you are using the number or the email address mentioned in your tickets or the company’s official website. Fake Travel Insurance Policies Booking a trip during pandemics is a bit risky, so the majority of travelers are looking for the most advanced travel insurance. To purchase an insurance that will cover your expenses on a trip no matter what, you need to buy a plan with a ‘cancel for any reason’ upgrade. Also, keep in mind that this upgrade is normally quite pricy and could be purchased maximum within two or free weeks after booking your trip. Make sure that you are buying a policy directly from a licensed company and stay away from the companies offering cancel for any reason coverage for no extra cost. Learn more about COVID-19 travel insurance and make sure you always fully read the policy before buying. Vacation Rental Discounts Don’t agree on transferring money directly to the owner even if he offers a huge discount on your reservation. Stick to proven booking services and avoid any wire transfers. Once you wire your money, the owner has no liability and might just disappear. #onlinetrading #binary #binaryoptions #broker #firm #money #chargebacks #fundrecovery #privatebanking #consult #chargeback #fundrecovery #moneyback #refund #refunds #crypto #bitcoin #tradingonline #onlinescams #scams #forexscams #tradingscams #DatingScam #petscam #travelscam #airlinescams

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Be Wary of Distractions

If something on the street happens that draws your attention—somebody falling over and loudly yelling, a fight breaking out, or a child asking you for money or to sign a petition—it’s likely just an attempt to distract you while somebody looks for an open pocket or a bag to grab. Be extra vigilant whenever a situation like this comes up.

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]]> Hiking Safety: 3 Items to Bring In Case of Emergency https://travelerdreams.com/hiking-safety-3-items-to-bring-in-case-of-emergency/ Sat, 14 Nov 2020 09:04:00 +0000 https://travelerdreams.com/?p=9851 Even seasoned hikers are prone to accidents. Emergency planning is an integral part of planning for any extended hike, so we thought we’d highlight some important items to bring with you for safety while you’re on the trail. Whether it is planning for a broken leg or getting lost—it is important to account for any […]

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]]> Even seasoned hikers are prone to accidents. Emergency planning is an integral part of planning for any extended hike, so we thought we’d highlight some important items to bring with you for safety while you’re on the trail.

Whether it is planning for a broken leg or getting lost—it is important to account for any scenario. So here are 3 must-have items to bring with you on your trek. Please make sure you know what to do with each item. Even if you have what you need, you also have to know how to use it properly!

Mirror

A mirror seems like a weird thing to bring with you on the trail, but it is actually one of the most important survival items we have at our disposal. In the case of emergency, most search parties will be sent help from the air. However, foliage can make you difficult to spot. With a mirror, you can reflect sunlight or searchlights to signal for help. The signal for SOS is three short flashes, three long flashes, three short flashes. You can also use a mirror to start a fire.

Extra Water

While food is important, water is the key to survival. Humans can only survive for three days without water. Therefore, it is always important to bring extra water. It is recommended you drink two liters of water daily when you are not hiking, but you should drink about a half a liter for every hour you are. If you are on an extended hike, we recommend you bring an extra two liters in case of emergency—it is worth carrying the extra weight. You can also bring Iodine tablets to purify water from a stream.

Fire Starter

Making a fire is one of the most important things to do first in case of an emergency. For one, the smoke and flames will alert anyone in the air or the immediate area to your presence. And of course, it is important to stay warm at night and keep predators away. If you are in an emergency situation, you should not move location! It is important to stay where you are. Today, you can buy wind- and water-proof lighters and fire starters that can save lives.

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