Travelling abroad offers the chance to unwind, explore unfamiliar places and enjoy new experiences. However, different environments can also present risks that you may not encounter at home. Preparing ahead for these possibilities will help you protect your health and wellbeing while away.
Taking a few practical steps before and during your trip can give you greater confidence and make it easier to handle unexpected situations.
Check trusted travel guidance before you go
Start with the Foreign Office travel advice. It can provide detailed, country-specific information about entry rules, safety concerns, political conditions, natural hazards and local laws. Guidance can change quickly, so check the site regularly as your departure date approaches.
Many destinations have requirements around visas, travel permits, vaccination proof or medication restrictions. Planning early gives you time to arrange the right paperwork and avoid delays at the border. It also helps to learn about cultural expectations such as dress codes, tipping customs and behaviour in religious spaces. Understanding these in advance reduces the risk of misunderstandings.
Make a note of local emergency numbers and the nearest British embassy or consulate to where you are staying. Keep these details saved on your phone and written down separately, so you can access them even if you lose signal or your device stops working.
Speaking of your phone and signal, make sure you get an eSIM for whatever region you’re travelling to (a Maaltalk Asia eSIM, for example). Not only do these allow you to avoid hefty roaming charges, but they also offer the best chance of a consistent connection.
Look after your health abroad
Health preparation starts before you travel. Check the vaccination advice for your destination and arrange any required doses before you go. Bring any essential medication in its original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription. Some countries need additional documentation to allow certain medicines through customs.
Climate changes, heat, humidity and different hygiene standards can affect your body in unexpected ways. Stay hydrated, use sun protection and be cautious with unfamiliar food and drink. Bottled or filtered water is usually the safest option in regions where tap water is not treated.
It also helps to identify local clinics, hospitals or pharmacies near your accommodation before you arrive. Quick access to care can make a stressful situation easier to manage.
Choose suitable travel insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance helps protect you if something goes wrong abroad. A good policy should cover medical care, hospital treatment, cancelled trips, lost belongings and repatriation. This is especially helpful in places where healthcare costs are high or where access to reliable medical services may vary.
A Global Health Insurance Card provides access to state-run healthcare in some countries, but it does not cover private treatment or transport home. It should always be used alongside, not instead of, travel insurance. If you plan to stay overseas for an extended period, consider long-stay or expat insurance that fits your travel plans and entry status.
Finally, it’s worth knowing that some general health insurance policies allow you to add on travel insurance, which can help you save money versus taking out a separate policy. (Review Health Insurance can help you find the ideal solution).
Pick safe and secure accommodation
Where you stay plays a major role in your safety. Research accommodation options carefully, paying attention to reviews, location and security features. Properties with clear emergency exits, good lighting and secure entry points offer added reassurance.
When you arrive, familiarise yourself with fire exits, evacuation procedures and emergency contacts. Store valuables in a safe or keep them locked away in your luggage. Avoid posting your accommodation details or real-time location on public social media, as this can draw unwanted attention.
Solo travellers may prefer places with strong safety records, staffed reception areas and clear security measures. It can also help to share your itinerary with someone you trust at home.
Be careful with transport and excursions
Road rules, signage and driving habits vary worldwide. If you plan to hire a car, read up on local driving laws and restrictions. Check that your hire vehicle is insured, roadworthy and equipped with the safety features you need.
Use licensed taxis, official taxi ranks or trusted ride-hailing apps that offer driver identification and journey tracking. Avoid unmarked vehicles or informal lift offers.
When booking excursions, choose reputable providers who are insured and have verified safety procedures. This is especially relevant for activities involving water sports, hiking or wildlife. Do not hesitate to ask questions or walk away if something feels unsafe or poorly organised.
Stay alert to scams and theft
Pickpocketing and tourist scams are common in busy areas. Keep your belongings close to your body and use bags with secure fastenings or under-clothing pouches to reduce the risk of theft.
Be cautious of unsolicited help, overly friendly strangers, “official” fees with no explanation or unexpected offers such as cheap tours or free gifts. Research common scams in your destination so you recognise warning signs.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi for tasks involving passwords or financial information. Use a VPN if possible, and keep photocopies or digital scans of your passport and important documents in a secure place.
What to do if something goes wrong
Accidents can still occur, even with preparation. If you become injured or fall ill, seek medical help straight away. Keep written documentation of treatment, including receipts for medication and transport. If your injury was caused by unsafe conditions, such as poorly maintained facilities or negligence during an organised activity, record what happened. Photos, witness names and location details can be helpful later on.
People from England and Wales who experience injury abroad due to another party’s negligence may explore holiday accident claims once they return home. Legal advice can help you understand your situation and the steps you can take next.
Travel prepared and stay aware
A safe trip abroad starts with awareness, preparation and sensible choices. By staying informed, choosing reliable services and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can focus on enjoying your time away and making the most of every experience.
You might enjoy reading more travel tips here/
