Here are some travel safety tips. I think these tips are quite useful, but more valuable than any of these is to follow your gut, use your common sense and not let fear attract negative situations.

When walking around the sights or just taking public transportation systems, it’s best to wear a bag with a sling strap (that goes across the chest, rather than hanging over the shoulder). If you don’t care about fashion, your first choice should be a fanny pack. Fashion will be the last thing on your mind if your wallet is stolen from behind.

• I’m a fan of backpacks, but if you do use one, make sure you get one with a lock on the zippers, it will discourage thieves and make you an easier target.
• If you want to walk around without carrying any kind of purse or bag (I’ve been there!), I suggest carefully folding some money, credit card, and/or room key into a sandwich bag and pinning it inside the bag. his shirt, jeans, whatever. you are using. (Be sure to use a large safety pin, as they are usually sturdier than smaller ones.)
• You should check with local laws, but I always carry a keychain with pepper spray or Mase, it’s very portable and powerful when needed.
• Don’t attract thugs or desperate people by flashing lots of valuable jewelry, this is especially true if you are traveling to a poorer country.
• Please store your valuables in the hotel safe or in your locked luggage when you leave your room. Don’t tempt underpaid maids.
• Stay alert! Don’t make yourself vulnerable by having too many drinks with strangers in a new place. Always watch your drink or take it with you to avoid any date rape drugs.
• It is best to walk with a companion at night, if that is not possible, take the Pepper Spray and a small flashlight. A portable keychain alarm is also not a bad idea.
• Make sure you know the local emergency number for your area, it is probably NOT 911 if you are in another country.

Remember what I told you before, don’t let fear ruin your trip. Every year, thousands of women travel far and wide without a single dangerous incident. You can increase your chances of being one of them by following these tips and having the right attitude!

Happy travels!