Often these days we hear of horror stories of what has happened to friends and acquaintances when they were travelling out of town for a couple of days – whether on business or pleasure. Its almost reached the stage where we don’t want to travel to unfamiliar surroundings, for fear of being attacked. But, things don’t need to be like this – by following a very simple personal security procedure, you can reduce the risk of any attack on you when you travel to destinations new, leaving you with the opportunity to enjoy your stay.

Step one: Tour travel plans

Before you set off anywhere, always check to make sure (a) of the rime of your departure; and (b) that your departure is on schedule. Also, ensure that someone close to you knows what your travel plans are, but, beside that person, don’t make your travel plans a common knowledge event.

Step two: Select your travelling clothes carefully

Try to make sure you dress conservatively, yet comfortably. Also ensure that the clothes you choose do not advertise the fact that you have any conspicuous wealth (like show that you are wearing a necklace). In need consider purchasing specialized clothing; for instance, a money belt in which to keep you travellers checks and credit cards.

Step three: Packing your bag

When you go away, try not to take things you won’t need. It’s very easy to say that you are going to need lots of pairs of shoes and a camera/video-camera - but do you really need it? More often than not, the answer to that is “no”. The same rule here would apply to any stereo equipment you may want to take with you. Are you really going to have time to use it? If not, don’t take it – as it only advertises that you have wealth for any potential attacker.

Step four: travelling via public transport

Whenever you are travelling via public transport, whether that be via plane, bus, train, or boat, stay alert at all times. This means, unless you’re going to be taking a long flight, try not to sleep. Also, no matter how long the travel period is, try to avoid the temptation of consuming alcohol. If you are given the choice, try to make sure that you sit near the aisle and as close to the emergency exit as possible.

Step five: staying in the hotel

When you arrive at the hotel that your going to be staying at, ask the desk clerk to give you a room on the floors between three and five. Doing this should mean that your room is high enough up to make sure that any street criminal is not tempted to try and opportunity theft on your room, whilst at the same time making sure you are within the rescue reach of any fire engine. Also, when staying in the room, do not leave any valuables lying around the hotel room for others to see and keep your bags locked at all times.

Step six: don’t talk to strangers

Finally, it is always tempting to meet new people when we travel to new places. However, be cautious of any over friendly people. Especially don’t accept any offer to take you to any discount stores or any offer to buy you a free drink (in the latter case you’ll have no way of knowing whether or not the drink contains drugs, which could produce very serious consequences).