International Travel Security Tips- Things to Know

International travel security tips are very important for students. They should always focus on some essential safety tips for travelling abroad and integrate them into their lifestyle. While studying in a foreign country can seem really enticing for any student, especially in terms of living a new lifestyle and experiencing newer professional and educational experiences, it can also be tough at times. Shifting to a country with a whole new environment may seem difficult for many international students. 

Safety is also essential and becomes the top priority for students as well. Hence, students and their guardians should prepare some basic strategies beforehand. Here are things that can help immensely in this regard.

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Enhancing Overall Awareness

One of the simpler aspects that students can focus on is building more awareness. Staying aware and alert regarding their immediate surroundings, local travel routes, neighborhoods and other aspects. They should always consult their university or school for international travel security tips and other resources. Students should avoid walking or commuting while having their headphones plugged in, and also avoid areas which are desolate and poorly-lit at night. They should also try walking with fellow students and friends as much as possible. Recommendations on the safest routes are always needed, while keeping host family members, student deans, or friends updated about locations. The International Student Office can help immensely in understanding and navigating the immediate localities of students. 

Bypassing Fraud/Scams

There are unfortunately multiple instances of scams/frauds which seek to cheat international students. Students should avoid sharing personal details, especially at stores, on the phone, or even at restaurants. Being wary of phone scams is highly recommended, especially with regard to calls from revenue agencies or immediate payment requests. Students should also bypass organizations claiming to offer degrees/diplomas, while they should also watch out for student housing scams. Always search via images on Google while checking out online housing rentals. Contact a reputed agency or rental provider for looking up the housing unit. If the unit price is lower than similar units, then it could be a scam. If the landlord asks for payment before signing a contract, then it could be a potential warning to avoid the transaction as well. 

Safety Tips for Social Outings

There are several safety tips for travelling abroad that students can keep in mind. There are several social events and occasions that come up throughout the school/college year. However, one should always be careful. The local drinking age should be confirmed before drinking or going to any local pub/bar which may require photo verification. Students should drink only with trusted individuals and that too within reasonable limits. They should keep their drinks with them to avoid risks of spiking. Drinking and driving is a strict no-no, while students should have a transportation plan for reaching home. It is wise to decline rides from strangers with the exception of ridesharing companies and public taxis. 

Transportation Tips

Students should stay abreast or local train and bus routes and their timings. This can be done by using several types of apps. For example, Transit offers details for 200+ cities. Students should sit towards the front of the bus in proximity to the driver while traveling. Taxis have good reliability though they are costlier. Students can save phone numbers of local taxi companies for sudden scenarios, along with downloading ridesharing applications like Lyft and Uber. Always wait for the name confirmation by the driver before boarding a cab and verify the vehicle number. Several institutions have safe walk/ride programs for students which are also helpful. 

Home Safety Tips

International students should never allow unknown people into their lodgings. They should avoid keeping doors open for strangers as well. Windows and doors should stay locked all the time, even when they are inside. They can also build friendships with neighbors for help and support. 

Finding emergency resources

Students should always save emergency services’ phone numbers, i.e. 911 in the U.S. or 999 in the UK. This will offer access to ambulance, fire, and police services, while several regions will offer interpreters for those without English as their first languages. Students should also obtain university/college helpline numbers for everything from medical support to counseling. 

It is also important to avoid showing off costly gadgets or money. It may only draw the attention of pickpockets or thieves. Students should go card-less as much as possible, while staying alert for any signs of stalkers while visiting ATMs for withdrawals.