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Travel Safety: How to Get Help on Vacation When You Need it Most

Ideally, a vacation should be a relaxing adventure that allows you to kick back and unwind for a few days. However, life has a funny way of causing trouble when we least expect — or want it. As such, it’s important for all travelers to understand how they can get help if they find themselves in a bind on holiday. Here, we’ll review several key best practices you can follow should you need assistance while traveling far from home.

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Contacting the Authorities

First and foremost, travelers can protect themselves and others by knowing how and when to contact police officers and medical professionals while on vacation. Note here that calling 9-1-1 in other countries may not connect you to emergency services! Many places in Europe, for instance, uses the numbers 1-1-2 instead. Note also if there are any medical facilities/police stations within walking distance of your hotel. This way, you can act quickly if an emergency were to occur.

Brush up on Key Phrases

group shot at the i am amsterdam letters

If you’re traveling to a foreign country where English is not the primary language, don’t assume that strangers will understand you if you need assistance. Rather, it’s always a good idea to look up key phrases in another language if you’re visiting a foreign country. Simply learning how to say things like, “I need help,” “call an ambulance,” or “call the police” could very well save a life one day.

Check in with a Partner

If you’re traveling with friends or family, always tell them where you’re going before you head off alone. That way, if your phone malfunctions, or you lose your wallet, or something bad happens to you, they can come find you. If you’re traveling alone, then text a trusted friend or relative your daily itinerary and have them check in with you periodically. If they don’t hear back from you, they may be able to contact the authorities for you should you experience technical trouble or a dangerous situation. You can even do the same thing with a hotel employee. If you’re not back by a certain hour, they can take action on your behalf.

Don’t Ignore Problems

The last thing most people want to do on vacation is deal with a medical condition or health issue. Yet, if you’re experiencing chronic pain, discomfort, or other unusual symptoms, then it’s vital to speak with a medical professional ASAP. Remember, doctors have access to sophisticated medical equipment like 2 ml cryovials that they can use to diagnose and treat many common health problems. So, for example, should your appendix burst on vacation, you should absolutely drop everything you’re doing and seek medical attention right away. Bad timing aside, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health and wellness.

Pure Wander Contributor

Author Pure Wander Contributor

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Join the discussion 2 Comments

  • Mikroautobusų nuoma says:

    Travel, unforgettable adventures, discoveries and self-knowledge. With the collapse of normal life, humanity is experiencing a new encounter after a long break in COVID-19. First trips to local areas, nature entertainment and inspiration for fresh air. Memories of previous adventures and sharing experiences, travel moments. All you need is a warm place, a real atmosphere and hot chocolate.

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