Many say that backpacking can be a life-changing experience and it shows you a lot about yourself. It can be all that you wanted it to be and even more provided you steer clear from any hairy situations. To do that, you have to get streetsmart.
Here are some valuable tips:
Firstly you need to be sure that you have packed efficiently and the weight that you are lugging will not slow you down too much as you never know when you may have to move quickly. A great way of assessing this, is by packing your bag and walking up the stairs or walk a decent distance while carrying your bag. If it is an effort to move with the bag, then you know you have packed too much.
Foreigners are often preyed upon by criminals as they are deemed a lot more vulnerable. When walking on the street never walk with an anxious look on your face. Walk briskly and confidently even if you are not, so that you don’t attract any unwanted attention.
Before you leave home, make sure you know where you are going to. Map out a route in advance. Never pull out a map in public as this could depict you as an easy target. Also do not take pictures in areas that make you feel unsafe for the same reason.
Make sure that you do not carry all your documents and money together. If you have a place for safe keeping, rather keep it there and only carry sufficient money for the day.
Make sure that you always enquire from locals about certain areas before you venture anywhere. The worse thing that you could ever do is unwittingly venture into high risk area.
If you can always travel with a friend or more, do so – safety in numbers. If you can’t, make sure you take the necessary precautions.
Never leave home without a mobile. It could save your life. Your phone should be fully charged by morning and make sure you have a list of vital numbers stored.
If you enjoy listening to your iPod while walking, make sure that the sound volume does not completely drown out the surrounding noises. Be alert at all times.
Take the necessary traveling insurance if you can afford it, it may cost a little more but it is worth the effort.
Do research on criminal scams in the country you are visiting to understand how they are carried out. The more information you have the more empowered you are.
Follow these guidelines and most likely the only hassle you will encounter is deciding on the best photo angle.
