*This post may contain Amazon Affiliate links and we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
Going on vacation is one of the most exciting experiences in life, but it's important to keep safety in mind as well. No matter where you're traveling, there are always risks involved, but with a bit of preparation and caution, you can enjoy a safe and hassle-free vacation. Here are some of the best ways to stay safe while on vacation:

1. Do your research
The first step in ensuring a safe vacation is to research your destination. You can learn about local customs, culture, and potential safety concerns. You can also read reviews about accommodations, restaurants, and attractions to get a better idea of what to expect. Make sure to research the neighborhood where you'll be staying and the areas you plan to visit. This will help you avoid any potential dangers and stay safe.
2. Secure your valuables
When you're traveling, keep your valuables, such as cash, passports, and electronic devices, secure. Invest in a good quality travel lock or a money belt to keep your valuables safe while you're out and about. You can also store any valuables in the hotel or cruise safe provided by the accommodations. Avoid carrying too much cash or jewelry and keep your valuables out of sight, especially in crowded areas.

3. Be aware of your surroundings
No matter where you are, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Whether you're walking down a busy tourist street, taking public transportation, or exploring a new area, always be alert and observant. Keep an eye out for anything suspicious or unusual and trust your instincts. If you feel nervous, uncomfortable, or unsafe, avoid the area or leave immediately.

4. Stick to well-lit and populated areas
When exploring a new area, stay in well-lit and populated areas. Avoid walking alone at night or in secluded areas. Stick to main roads and avoid shortcuts or alleys. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the public transportation system and use it during late hours or in less secure areas.
5. Keep your documents safe
Make copies of your passport, travel insurance, and other important documents, and keep them in a safe place. Consider storing them on a cloud-based service or emailing them to yourself so you can access them if needed. Remember to keep your original documents safe in your hotel or cruise safe. It's also a good idea to keep a digital copy of your itinerary and flight information in case you lose your physical copies.
6. Stay in touch with friends and family
Make sure you have a way to stay connected with friends and family back home. Consider purchasing a local SIM card, using a messaging app, or keeping in touch through social media. This way, you can stay connected and let loved ones know where you are and what you're doing. It will also be easier for them to reach you in case of an emergency.
7. Trust your gut
If something doesn't feel right or makes you uncomfortable, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. Always prioritize your safety over anything else. Don't be afraid to say no or speak up if you feel unsafe. You can also speak with the hotel staff, the embassy or consulate, or the local police if you need assistance.

Bonus: Keep your digital identity safe
If you log onto public wi-fi hotspots, all data transmitted is liable to be intercepted. This includes any passwords used to log into apps or accounts along with any financial information. You can protect yourself by investing in a quality Virtual Private Network (VPN) for your phone. A VPN encrypts all data sent and received keeping your personal information away from prying eyes.
A bit of preparation and caution can go a long way when it comes to keeping safe while on vacation. However, should you encounter some bad luck on vacation, your travel insurance should cover any losses incurred. But the idea is to not rely on the travel insurance policy (just like you don’t rely on your car insurance policy)! By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a great vacation while staying safe.