Foreign Travel Safety

Traveling abroad will be the source of many future memories, but you want to make sure those memories are pleasant ones. Use these tips to avoid common tourist mistakes.

Be aware. It's easy to pick out the tourist in a crowd - confused look, map, camera, t-shirt proudly displaying a hometown sports team. Familiarize yourself with the area you're visiting ahead of time to avoid getting lost. Chose a slim wallet that fits in your front pocket. Avoid clothing and luggage that points out your tourist status.

Luggage. Modern luggage makes it all too obvious the gadgets and technology you're carrying; use a simple tote bag or backpack to store your camera, MP3 player, and cell phone. Don't store memory cards in more accessible outer pockets.

Currency. Be familiar with the currency of the country you are traveling to and have currency exchanged ahead of time. Fumbling with currency foreign to the country you are in makes you an easy mark for pickpockets and scam artists.

Health. Visit your doctor at least four to six weeks before traveling abroad to ensure that you receive proper immunizations, obtain prophylactic medications, and address any concerns. The CDC offers a travel health website at http://www.cdc.gov/travel with information available by country.

Emergencies. Many credit cards offer travel insurance for lost or stolen luggage, medical assistance, and 24 hour information services. Some insurance companies now offer specific short-term travel insurance. Contact your insurance company or credit card company ahead of time to familiarize yourself with the options available to you.