Do’s and Don’ts When Traveling to an Unfamiliar Country

When traveling, it’s important to remember that cultural norms and laws vary from country to country. For instance, it’s not appropriate to touch one another’s heads in some countries, and in others, women are expected to cover their heads. You may not understand the social customs of another country, and you may be excused for breaking one.

Here Are the Do’s and Don’ts When Traveling to an Unfamiliar Country:

DO’S 

• Do Have A Backup Plan For Getting Home.

Planning ahead is key to any successful trip, especially when traveling outside the U.S., where even minor inconveniences can lead to serious issues. To avoid any surprises along the way, make sure you’ve packed extra passport photos, contact information, and a copy of your schedule in case you get lost. If you’re traveling with important documents, such as your passport or travel medical insurance, make photocopies of them and pack them in your luggage in addition to the originals.

• Do Dress Conservatively, And Avoid Wearing Expensive Jewelry.

An important thing to remember when traveling to a new country is to dress conservatively to avoid attracting unwanted attention. Don’t wear expensive jewelry or any jewelry at all. Keep your cash and credit cards in your front pockets instead of your person. If people are staring at you or ask to talk to you, you may want to keep walking. 

• Do Be Aware Of Your Surroundings.

Traveling to a foreign country can be filled with excitement and anticipation, but it can also be fraught with fears. When you travel to a new country, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and your limitations. When traveling to unfamiliar countries, it’s common to find some differences from what you’re used to.

• Do Carry A Cellphone And Know How To Use It.

Cell phones are like lifelines these days, and if you’re traveling abroad, it’s doubly important to know how to use them. Every country has different cell phone standards, and knowing how to activate your cell phone before you leave home is an important step to ensuring you know how to call for help if necessary.

DON’TS 

• Don’t Walk Alone After Dark.

Whether you are returning to your hotel late at night or have been out sightseeing all day, it’s never a good idea to be out alone after dark. If you are robbed, then you could be at risk of a terrible injury and public humiliation. You are also putting yourself at risk by walking alone at night.

• Don’t Carry Valuable Items In Your Back Pocket.

Before leaving on your next trip, plan in advance how you will handle any belongings you have that might be worth a significant amount of money, such as jewelry or cash.

• Don’t Take Anything That Looks Suspicious.

When it comes to personal safety, it’s important to keep certain rules in mind. If you’re traveling to a part of the world you’re unfamiliar with, it’s even more important to be mindful whether you’re on vacation or for business. Avoid bringing anything that looks suspicious, including electronics, jewelry, and cash.

• Don’t Drink Too Much.

If you drink to have a good time, don’t drink too much. Remember, you’re not at home, so you’re more likely to drink more than you usually would. If you drink a lot of alcohol, your body won’t be able to process all of it. If you drink too much, you may have a hard time sleeping or remember what happened the next morning.

Traveling is exciting! Whether you’re traveling for pleasure or for business, seeing a new place is an adventure. But it can also be dangerous if you don’t know the local customs and practices. So, make sure you are as prepared as you can be.