Travel Smart: 10 Essential Safety Tips for Every Trip

Planning your trip is the first step toward an unforgettable journey! To help you make the most of your time away, we’ve gathered 10 practical safety tips to keep in mind before and during your travels. These straightforward strategies will help you feel confident, well prepared, and ready to enjoy each experience.

Pre-Trip Checklist: What to Do Before You Travel

1. Research Your Destination

Begin by getting familiar with your destination’s customs, language, health protocols, weather, and other local essentials. This groundwork not only helps you prepare effectively but also demonstrates respect for the local culture. Learning just a few common phrases in the local language can make a positive impression and may even lead to a friendly exchange with locals!

 

2. Check Government of Canada Travel Advisories

Before locking in your travel plans, review the Government of Canada’s travel advisories. These alerts will keep you informed about any potential issues, like political instability, severe weather, or health concerns that could impact your itinerary or your travel insurance.¹

 

3. Organize Your Important Documents

Ensure your travel documents are in order well ahead of your departure. Confirm that your passport, visa, and travel insurance are current and valid. It’s a good idea to make both digital and printed copies of essential documents such as your ID and insurance information. 

Pro tip: If you’re travelling with someone, exchange copies of your key documents as an added precaution. 

 

4. Review Your Vaccinations and Health Needs

Booking an appointment at a travel clinic is a wise step. You can update any required vaccinations, receive tailored medical advice, and learn about destination-specific medications like anti-malarials. Be sure to plan this visit early—some vaccines take time to take effect. 

Even if your vaccinations are up to date, it’s smart to be cautious about insect-borne illnesses like Zika, dengue, or malaria. Bring insect repellent, wear protective clothing outdoors, and sleep with a mosquito net if necessary. 

 

5. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential when exploring unfamiliar places. It covers you from unexpected disruptions like medical emergencies, trip delays, or lost luggage.

Blue Cross travel insurance has you covered every step of the way. Plus, you gain access to 24/7 travel assistance, offering expert guidance before and during your trip. 

 

While Travelling: Ensuring Safety and Embracing the Experience

6. Trust Guest Reviews

Guest reviews can be incredibly helpful when selecting places to stay, activities to join, or tours to take. Choose services with strong, positive feedback from verified users. Their insights can help you make informed decisions and steer clear of unpleasant surprises.

 

7. Stay Connected and Share Your Itinerary

It’s important to stay in touch, especially when travelling on your own. Make sure you have reliable internet access, either through a mobile data plan or Wi-Fi. Share your travel plans with someone you trust, and agree on how often you’ll check in. This simple step increases your safety and lets loved ones be a part of your journey from afar.

 

8. Choose Safe Transportation

Arrange your transportation through well-reviewed, trustworthy providers. Whether you’re using ride-share services, public transportation, or long-distance buses, keeping your belongings close and visible will help keep them safe.

 

9. Stay Alert in Crowded Areas

Tourist-heavy locations and transport stations are often targeted by pickpockets. To stay safe, keep your valuables close and avoid displaying high-end accessories. Use zippered, anti-theft bags and consider carrying your passport and money in a secure pouch or belt.

 

10. Be Smart About Food and Water

Exploring local cuisine is a highlight of any trip, but it pays to be cautious. Opt for food vendors with steady customer flow, stick with food that is well cooked, and avoid raw fruits or vegetables unless you wash and peel them yourself. Always drink bottled or filtered water and carry hand sanitizer for use before meals. 

 

Your Best Ally: The Right Travel Insurance

No matter how well you prepare, travel can still bring surprises. That’s why Ontario Blue Cross travel insurance provides comprehensive coverage, giving you the confidence to travel with ease. 

Each trip is different, which is why our coverage can be tailored to match your specific needs. Whether you need emergency medical insurance, coverage for cancellations or lost baggage, we’ve got a solution for you. For the most complete plan, we recommend combining different types of coverage to stay insured both before and during your trip. 

Our insurance also includes Flight Delay Service and 24/7 travel assistance, available at no extra cost, ensuring help is always within reach during your travels. 

For safe and confident travels: plan meticulously, stay aware, and ensure you’re covered with dependable insurance. These essentials let you focus on making the most of every moment.