Spring break is here! It is an annual rite of passage, a time for college students to have fun and make new friends. Unfortunately, spring break can also pose safety issues for college students, and it is important to pack some common sense vacation tips to stay safe while you are getting ready for some fun in the sun.
Here are 10 smart spring break travel tips to make your travel more secure.
1. Research airport travel options. Getting from the airport and into town can be risky in certain parts of the world, so know your options before you go. Ask about hotel shuttles, research local ride sharing services and use only approved forms of transportation.
2. Check reviews carefully. The quality of the resort you stay at can make all the difference to your safety, so read reviews carefully, ask lots of questions and learn as much as you can about the destination.
3. Stay up to date on travel alerts. When there are specific threats that could impact travel, the U.S. State Department issues alerts. Check the government website regularly and stay abreast of security alerts that could impact your travel plans.
4. Never travel alone. There is safety in numbers, so use the buddy system to keep everyone safe on their spring break adventure. Avoid solo travel, especially after dark, and have a system to check in with other members of your party.
5. Program emergency alerts into your phone. Your smartphone can be your best friend when it comes to safety, so program emergency numbers into the device, download safety-related apps and learn how to use these precautions before you leave for the airport.
6. Use caution when posting on social media. Posting details about where you are staying or what you are doing could be risky, so wait until you get home to share those details.
7. Never leave your drink unattended. Make sure when you are out at dinner or at a bar, you keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended, to ensure no one puts anything in it
8. Copy your important documents. Losing your passport or other ID on vacation can be devastating, so protect yourself by making copies and keeping them separate from the rest of your stuff. Replacing a lost passport will be far easier if you have a copy of the document available.
9. Separate your cash and credit cards. Pickpockets are common sights in tourist destinations, and you need to stay alert for these petty thieves. Keeping a separate cash of stash and an emergency credit card in the hotel safe can protect you if you do become a victim.
10. Trust your instincts. If something does not seem right, trust your gut and take yourself out of the situation. You are your own best advocate, and you should always trust your instincts.
Spring break should be a time of fun and a welcome break from the stress of classes and endless exams. Use these tips to make sure your spring break trip is a fun and memorable experience and your college safety stays intact.
