There’s just one thing: airports are major hubs for people from every corner of the globe, and not every set of eyes might be friendly.
Travelling can be a thrilling experience, leaving you vulnerable to various potential dangers. You’re in a new place, with new people and new surroundings. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the strangers, but we’re here to help them stay safe in this hectic environment.
Keep these tips in mind as you navigate security checkpoints, tourist traps, and bustling crowds:
1. Ensure you have your ticket in hand and check through security right away
Make sure you have your flight ticket with you at all times. If you lose your ticket, there is little chance that you will be able to get on your flight on time.
Keep your boarding passes and passports on your person at all times. If you use a mobile device, make sure it’s on your person while you go through security.
This will ensure that sensitive information isn’t accessible to thieves if it gets lost or stolen. If you need to use an app on your phone during travel, close all apps when you finish with them to protect sensitive information.
Also, don’t delay before checking-in and going through security. The chances of an incident happening before security is much higher than after security. Don’t hang around in publicly accessible areas.
2. Pay attention to your luggage at all times
Many people are milling about the airport, many of whom might look for unattended baggage. It could be costly and time-consuming to replace if you lose your luggage. At the destination airport, watch for your suitcase as it appears on the carousel. Don’t wait around for the crowds to disperse – this is an easy way that someone else might take your luggage.
3. Be careful when using ATMs at the airport
Thieves often target ATMs, seeking an opportunity to steal or clone your card. If you’re going to use a machine, cover the keyboard as you type in your PIN.
Also, make sure that the area around is secure and safe. People who might be trying to steal money from others will often lurk around ATMs where they can get easy access to unsuspecting people.
4. Beware of pickpockets lurking around
Pickpockets will try anything to walk away with your wallet or purse without you noticing. Keep close track of your valuables!
This is especially true for busy airports, where many people come and go. Don’t put anything in your back pocket, and don’t leave your bag unattended.
Also, at the destination you may be tempted to exchange your money. Most experts recommend that you do not exchange money at airports. First, the exchange rates are generally worse than what you will find in your new city, but also, this is a perfect place for a pickpocket to be watching for potential victims.
5. Avoid falling asleep out in the open
Please don’t fall asleep in public areas of the airport, especially when it’s late at night or early in the morning before the airport is fully staffed. If you drift off, someone could easily take your wallet or phone.
You’ll leave your belongings unattended, but you also might wake up confused and disoriented, making it easier for thieves to take advantage of you in transit!
6. Don’t charge your smartphone in public USB ports
Don’t charge your smartphone in public USB ports! You never know what can happen when you plug something into a public USB port — it could be installed with malware that will steal all of your data!
7. Be careful with Destination Taxi Cabs
Consult with your hotel manager or airport information centre, or your destination services provide about transport from the hotel. In some locations you have to be sure you know what an official taxi cabs look like. It is quite possible that a non-official taxi cab charges you too much, but things could be much worse than that – they could be a thief.
As you can see, there are many steps you can take to ensure a safe and secure trip. Keeping your wits sharp will help you avoid problems that could potentially derail your entire trip. Whether travelling across the country or the globe, these tips should help your overseas travel smoothly.
We hope you have a safe, enjoyable time abroad. Just keep your head on a swivel, and you’ll be good to go–because there are worse things than sitting in an airport for hours on end!
