Staying safe in unfamiliar places is a frequent topic of questions I get from colleagues and friends. Years ago, after leaving the military, I went into executive protection and bodyguard work, learning the key elements of safety and force protection. These skills have helped shape my mindset as a pilot now traveling the world.

Once, I was in Bangkok doing some shopping with friends. I had a strange feeling that someone was watching me from across the street. I told my colleagues about it, and we proceeded to zigzag down some streets. The person followed. It was getting somewhat intense. I circled the block and navigated to the U.S. Consulate, and the person following us left. Who knows what would have happened, but at least we were keen in our situational awareness to pick up on it. Here are some steps that serve me well as I travel and how to stay safe in unfamiliar places.

Step 1: Preparation Before You Go

“Plan for today to avoid the failures of tomorrow.” This is something I often say in my blogs. Be sure to research your destination with the State Department and pay attention to travel alerts. I also use the United Kingdom’s travel website since they often have a different but good perspective on destinations.

Step 2: Packing Smart

Make sure you pack first aid kits and clothing that is easy to move around in. If you plan to do some sightseeing, consider wearing closed-toe shoes so you can run if you need to. Additionally, have copies of your documents with you instead of the originals. Leave unnecessary credit cards behind and carry only one or two. You can even create a dummy wallet or purse with fake cards. If you get mugged, you can throw the dummy wallet or purse to the muggers, leaving you with your real credit cards and ID.

Step 3: Staying Safe En Route

Be careful when using transportation abroad. Uber doesn’t exist in all countries, and some taxi companies may strike nationwide, leaving you stranded. Researching and planning are key here. Call the hotel or embassy and get their recommendations. Use Apple Tags or similar devices for all bags to keep track of them. Lastly, leave your travel itinerary with a relative or good friend back home so they know your plans in case of an emergency.

Step 4: Safety at Your Accommodation

Some of you may stay at cheap places to save money. A word of caution: cheap places can also mean high-crime locations. Do your research. For the hotel, always leave the “Do Not Disturb” sign on in the language of the country you are in. You don’t have a maid servicing your bedroom at home, so why do it in a hotel? Furthermore, consider tipping your housekeepers. Doing so will keep them and others out of your room. They are the hardest working ones at the hotel, so take care of them.

 Step 5: Navigating Unfamiliar Streets

I’ve been lost many times in foreign countries due to losing cell service and not being able to rely on my phone. Since then, I’ve downloaded map apps that let me download maps to my phone before I go out exploring. This way, I always know where I am. Additionally, if you plan to use a taxi or Uber, still put the location in your phone to navigate to, so you can keep your driver accountable. Research local etiquette on tipping and payment, as each country is different.

Step 6: Dealing with Emergencies

A friend of mine was visiting Beirut when a war broke out, and he got stuck. It was an awful situation. Be sure to use the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the government, which lets them know your travel plans. This way, if there’s an emergency in a country and they are evacuating Americans, they will know you are there. Set up safe houses near where you are staying, such as hospitals, police stations, or the embassy. Always have the embassy address and phone number on your phone. Lastly, look up the country’s emergency number, as it isn’t always 911.

 Conclusion

Staying safe in unfamiliar places requires a combination of preparation, vigilance, and adaptability. By taking the time to research your destination, packing smartly, and staying aware of your surroundings, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with travel. Remember to keep a backup plan for emergencies, stay connected with loved ones, and respect local customs and safety practices. As someone who has traveled extensively and experienced various situations, I can attest that these steps are invaluable in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Stay prepared, stay alert, and most importantly, stay safe.

Safe Travels – The Nomad Pilot