Keeping the valuables safe as well as having an emergency plan is essential to stay safe while holidaying abroad, especially for elderly travellers.
Travel experts from Panache Cruises shared their top 10 tips on how holidaymakers can stay safe this summer. Some of their most crucial recommendations for senior travellers include using safety mobile apps, sharing the location with family, knowing where the local hospital and police stations are and having the emergency phone numbers for each country.
1. Inform people of the location
Before going on holiday, travellers should always let friends and family know they are going away and keep them updated with any changes.
Keeping in regular contact and having the mobile’s live location app turned on is essential so people at home know where they are at all times.
2. Create an emergency plan
Being prepared for an emergency is key but this doesn’t have to be complicated. Travellers could simply familiarise themselves with the local hospital, police station and other useful spots in the town or city.
It could also be useful to “learn key phrases such as ‘I need help’ or ‘ring for an ambulance’ in the local language as well as the emergency phone numbers,” the experts explained.
3. Protect valuables
Thieves often target holidaymakers so it is advised not to pack anything expensive or of sentimental value unless is really necessary.
Travellers should also keep items like credit cards, local currency, passports and mobile phones hidden “in a secure bag out of sight at all times”.
Secure bags are great for senior travellers and these can be purchased on Amazon for less than £10.
4. Protect themselves against crime
Holidaymakers can be safe from local crime and tourist scams by researching the destination beforehand. Read up on travel guides and news sites, and talk to friends and family who have visited the area to learn about any potential risks.
5. Book solo accommodation
When travelling alone, it is recommended tourists always book solo rooms. Although shared accommodation such as hostels is more common among young travellers, seniors may be tempted to stay there to save money, however, the travel experts warned against this practice.
6. Choose accommodation with caution
Similarly, checking that the hotel is in a safe location and close to public transport and restaurants is key, even when travelling with family and friends.
“Travellers should also check the accommodation’s check-in timings to not spend time waiting around in an unknown environment,” they added.
7. Travel insurance
Travel insurance is essential to protect tourists from unforeseen events and interruption insurance “can help recover damages from issues such as weather and natural disasters”.
“Medical insurance can cover unexpected costs, while luggage insurance can help recover losses from theft or delays,” the experts added.
8. Study the local language
Learning a few words in the local language can be handy, especially if travellers need to ask for help.
9. Be respectful of local culture
“To reduce vulnerability and avoid drawing attention” it is advised travellers dress “appropriately” to respect the local culture. “Some countries may require hair to be covered up and not too much skin to be on the show,” for instance.
10. Never tell strangers if they are travelling alone
Finally, solo travellers “should never share too much with strangers” or they risk “becoming a target”. Instead, they should say that friends are “waiting up ahead or back in the hotel room”.
