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Research your destination's risks -

Investigate natural disasters, political issues, and health risks in the area you're visiting to better understand potential challenges.

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Register with your embassy -

Many countries offer programs to register travelers with embassies, enabling support and updates during emergencies.

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Have digital and hard copies of your documents -

Keep digital and printed copies of your passport, visa, health insurance, and other essential documents in secure but accessible places.

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Make a communication plan -

Establish a plan with friends and family for regular check-ins, and know how to contact local authorities if needed.

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Learn emergency numbers -

Research emergency numbers for police, medical help, and fire services in your destination country.

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Know your nearest embassy or consulate -

Locate and save the nearest embassy or consulate's contact information for support in case of serious emergencies.

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Have travel insurance -

Get comprehensive travel insurance covering health, cancellations, and accidents, including provisions for natural disasters.

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Pack a small emergency kit -

Include items like a flashlight, basic first-aid supplies, and necessary medications in your emergency kit.

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Understand local safety protocols -

Learn basic protocols for earthquakes, floods, or storms, as these vary by region and can save valuable time.

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Research local hospitals and clinics -

Identify healthcare facilities near your accommodations in case you need medical assistance.

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Save important contacts -

Store emergency contacts, including family, your embassy, and local services on your phone and on paper.

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Stay informed on weather and news -

Use reliable apps to monitor local news and weather, especially during a stay in disaster-prone areas.

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Consider local language basics -

In addition to greetings, familiarize yourself with essential words or phrases in the local language, such as "help," "emergency," and "hospital."

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Plan safe meeting points -

Designate meeting spots with your travel companions in case you're separated during an emergency.

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Know local transport options -

Explore alternative transportation options in case primary choices, such as flights or trains, become unavailable.

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Check hotel emergency plans -

Familiarize yourself with evacuation plans, exits, and emergency procedures at your accommodation.

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Keep some cash handy -

Cash can be essential if ATMs or credit systems are down during an emergency.

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Carry portable phone chargers -

Backup chargers help you stay connected, especially during power outages.

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Learn basic first aid -

Knowing simple first-aid techniques can be helpful, especially when traveling in remote areas.

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Back up your digital files -

Store travel-related files and copies of critical documents on a cloud service for easy access.

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Consider local laws and customs -

Be mindful of local laws, as legal issues can complicate emergencies if not observed.

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Keep a list of medications -

Have a list of your medications and allergies, with both generic and brand names, in case of a medical emergency.

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Invest in travel safety gear -

Items like locks and money belts add an extra layer of safety. They help protect your belongings from theft and provide peace of mind in case of emergencies or disasters.

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Set up location sharing -

Enable location sharing with trusted contacts to help them track your whereabouts in real-time.

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Inform your bank -

Notify your bank to avoid unexpected account freezes due to unfamiliar activity. This proactive step ensures that your transactions go smoothly while traveling and helps prevent disruptions to your financial access.

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Avoid posting real-time location on social media -

Delay sharing locations online to avoid exposing yourself to risks. Posting real-time updates can alert potential thieves or unwanted attention, making you more vulnerable in unfamiliar environments.

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Stay in touch with locals -

Connecting with locals can help you stay informed on real-time developments or risks. Their insights can provide valuable information about safety conditions and nearby resources that may not be available through other channels.

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Be aware of your surroundings -

Pay attention to surroundings, noting exits, and stay alert in unfamiliar places. This helps you quickly identify potential hazards and escape routes during emergencies.

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Use a VPN for secure internet access -

A VPN protects your data, especially when using public Wi-Fi in case you need to handle financial transactions.

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Create an emergency budget -

Set aside a fund for unexpected emergencies, helping you cover accommodation or emergency travel costs if necessary.

Sources: (US Department of State) (The Washington Post) (American Red Cross) 

See also: 30 things to avoid when you travel abroad

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