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Safety Advice for Young Travellers, students and backpackers

It has long been a dream and a goal of youth to travel abroad. Young travellers and backpackers have filled the roads of Europe and other parts of the World seeking adventure as well as education. It is a time honoured rite of passage of youth, but it is also an activity that can present some dangers. One of the problems with youth is that they often feel invincible. This is not the best mindset to have when you venture into a foreign environment. The truth of the matter is that youth are not invincible and there are some real dangers out there. A little preparation along with a bit of caution will help make that trip abroad into the one of the best times of your life rather than one of the worst.

One of the best ideas is to have insurance. There are travel insurance plans available that cover everything from injuries in dangerous sporting activities to repatriation costs should you become stranded. It is best to have as comprehensive a plan as possible. Obviously, no one plans for trouble, and the traveller who does not need to use their insurance at all is one of the happiest of travellers. The one who has it when they need is even happier.

It is also a good idea to do a little learning before you go. Everyone concentrates on the where and when of their trip, but also spend a bit of time looking into the customs and traditions of the places where you will go. Most places tend to welcome young travellers with open arms, but minor cultural differences can lead to misunderstanding. Part of the preparation should include insuring that your paperwork is in order. Visas, passports, and the like need to be checked. Make up a couple of copies of your contact information and important phone numbers. Keep them in two separate places in case one is lost.

Be prepared for any health issues as well. This includes injections that may be appropriate for the location you will be visiting. If you are young and travelling abroad, it is not unlikely that romance will enter into your plans sooner or later. Often romance will lead to sex. Unprotected sex in a foreign country has consequences that can be quite serious. Be optimistic and pack some condoms if you think this is likely to be a part of your trip.

Avoid anything to do with illegal drugs. The drug laws in foreign countries can be strange, and the punishments very severe. The local authorities are not going to be impressed with your UK passport should you be caught with drugs. Even alcohol should be used with certain moderation. A foreign country is not the best place to be totally drunk and out of control. It magnifies any of the other dangers that exist.

One of these is theft. This is not to say that the residents of foreign countries are necessarily dishonest, but you will be at tourist attractions and crowded beaches. These are the kinds of places that draw predators anywhere in the world. Guard your valuables at all times. It is a good idea to have a return ticket purchased in advance. If you have that, at least, you no that no matter what else happens, you will have a sure way home.

There is no reason to be gloomy about your trip, or to anticipate disaster. You are going on your journey because you are considered old enough. All you need to do is have the maturity to do a bit of preparation, and observe some basic safety rules. After that, let your youth be served and enjoy yourself.


Also check out:
Fco.gov.uk - Know Before You Go
Caroline's Rainbow Foundation