Gap Year: Safety Tips
Being in an unfamiliar country and experiencing a new culture can prompt travellers to take more risks than they would at home, sometimes with disastrous consequences. These helpful tips will ensure that you not only have a safe trip but an unforgettable and enjoyable one too. BUNAC provides further information specific to each trip as part of the application process and our in-country partners also provide detailed arrival orientation meeting to help ensure that your stay is trouble free.
Pack your own bags and keep a watchful eye on your luggage at all times. Never carry anything through airports for anyone else.
Keep your friends/family briefed on your travel plans and where you expect to be at a particular time. Let them know when you plan to contact them next.
Make a note of your bank account and credit card details and give them to a trusted family member while you are away. It’s also a good idea to advise your bank to give this person full authorisation on your account so that they will be able to act on your behalf when necessary.
Make copies of all important documents such as passport, driving license, visa and insurance and save scanned copies in your email account for easy access in an emergency (and don’t tell anyone your email password!). BUNAC will also keep copies of relevant documents should you need them.
Avoid keeping all of your money in one place and don’t rely on one form of payment. Take at least one credit/debit card, a small quantity of cash and travellers’ cheques. Invest in a discreet money belt to wear under your clothes for the cash you will need that day and leave the rest in a secure safety deposit box at your accommodation where possible. Be especially careful in crowded public transport and marketplaces and don’t let anyone see you enter your pin at ATMs. Check your statements to make sure they correspond with your spending. BUNAC programme handbooks also explain the quickest ways to transfer money should you find that you’re running out.
Pack as little as possible – it will make travelling easier and give you more freedom. Consider leaving any expensive jewellery at home and avoid flaunting your digital camera or iPod.
Wearing revealing clothing can attract unwanted attention so try to wear something that will help you to blend in as much as possible among locals. Read about the customs of the countries you will be visiting before you travel to avoid causing misunderstandings or offense.
Know where the no-go areas of each destination are and think twice before wandering off the beaten track. Walk purposefully and confidently and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Exercise extreme caution at night time, always go out with a friend and try to get a bus or taxi (from a taxi rank) back to your accommodation – avoid walking and never hitchhike.
Beware of scams. If any offer seems too good to be true it probably is! Don’t give out too much information about yourself, your travel plans or where you’re staying to anyone, no matter how friendly they seem. BUNAC’s local partners will update you with the latest scams to look out for.
Learning a few words and phrases of the local language can be invaluable in emergencies.
Alcohol not only drains your budget but also makes you vulnerable to accidents, attacks or theft. Drink spiking is a global issue; always keep an eye on your drink; know your drinking limit and remember that any injuries caused while under the influence of alcohol may not be covered by your insurance. The same rules apply to drugs, but with more severe repercussions (including the death penalty in some destinations). Use common sense and don’t break the local law.
In the unlikely event that you are threatened don’t argue; give up your money and then report the incident to the local police.
Take comprehensive insurance cover, even if it is more expensive, it could save you a lot of money in the long run. Keep your insurance details with you. With the help of Endsleigh, BUNAC has developed a unique policy which we believe will cover 99% of the activities you are likely to undertake. Write down the contact details of the local consulates of the countries you are visiting. BUNAC programme handbooks will include these details.
On the rare occasions when things go wrong, BUNAC along with our in-country partners is there to provide 24/7 emergency support for members. We also make sure participants are adequately prepared for their trips with orientations, pre-departure advice and a comprehensive handbook.
For more information visit www.bunac.org/smaart
