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All travelers, but especially women, need to know how to protect themselves from many type of crimes that can happen when they travel alone. The most common crimes, depending on the area you are traveling in, can range from carjacking to the theft of money, jewelry, and other valuables, to assault. But, you can help to protect yourself by following these tips:
Tip Number One- When traveling close to home, do not get overconfident. Crime can happen even when we are traveling close to home. When traveling in a car, keep the doors locked and the windows up far enough so that no one can reach inside your vehicle, especially at night. When you stop your vehicle at a traffic light or at a stop sign, for example, make sure to look around the outside of your vehicle. This is a prime time for carjackers to strike. It only takes a split second for a car thief to open your car door, pull you out onto the street, and drive off in your vehicle.
Tip Number Two- When you park your vehicle, especially at night, park in a well-lit area. Do not park on a dark side street or in a dark parking lot. Also, make sure to park among other vehicles. Remember to wind up all of the windows in your vehicle and to lock up all of the doors too. If your vehicle is equipped with an alarm, make sure that you turn it on before you leave your vehicle. Try to park in an attended parking lot if possible too.
Tip Number Three- When traveling farther from home, especially abroad, do not keep anything valuable in a purse or handbag. Use a money belt and fasten it securely to your middle. Do not use fanny packs or backpacks as these are targeted by pickpockets and thieves because they are so easy to steal from the wearer. Also, do not leave money or other valuables in your hotel or motel room while you are away.
Tip Number Four- When staying in hotel or motel rooms, be sure to lock your door when you are in your room as well as being gone. Never leave your door unmarked no matter what. Smart travelers carry their own portable door locks. You cannot be sure who has a key to your room and who can get in. There are several variations of these locks and they can be purchased at your local hardware store. They will help to ensure your safety.
Tip Number Five- Always know where your destination is. If you are traveling by car far from home, be sure to map out your travel plans well in advance. Check for road construction on your intended route so you can reroute your map and avoid these sites which can slow you down considerably or maybe even make you stop. Make a copy of your complete travel itinerary and include telephone numbers where you can be reached. Leave a copy with your spouse or a trusted friend or family member.
Tip Number Six- Keep your head up, your eyes wide open, and always look confident and in control. Always look like you know where you are going(even if your knees are shaking and you are really lost). This attitude will help make potential thieves think twice before considering you as their next victim.
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