Walking in Vegas: How to Stay Safe and Where to Stay Away From

Despite what you may have been led to believe by television shows like Cops, Las Vegas can be a very safe place in which to walk. However, like any other large city, it has its share of problems. There is no shortage of crime or accidents that happen in the city on a daily basis, but with a few simple tips, there is no reason why you cannot safely traverse the city on foot.

1. Walk the strip during the daylight. Of course, most visitors feel it is simply NOT the way to see the strip, and it may not be. But for those who are especially safety conscious, this is probably the best advice anyone could give.

2. Carry little cash. Perhaps there is nothing more important than this. No matter what happens, if you do not have the cash, no one will be able to take it from you. Of course, with the amount of casinos you will likely be passing, that may be difficult! This is why the next point is so important.

3. Choose a specific time for walking the strip. Whether it is at night or during the day, walk the strip (or any other parts of Las Vegas) when you plan to do nothing else. This way, you are not tempted to enter any casinos and walk away with any cash that could draw attention to yourself.

4. Beware of other tourists. No, tourists, as a general rule, are not dangerous at all. But those renting cars are also visiting cars and trying to take in the sights. Sometimes, it may be possible they are watching too much of what is off the road, instead of what is on the road.

5. Walk in a group. This is not only good advice for walking in Vegas, but any other location. When you are in a group, you are not as attractive of a target. Further, you also present a larger visual object to drivers.

6. Be wary of the temperature. Yes, there are the potential crimes (which are generally over-emphasized) and the potential of accidents with bug-eyed tourists, but the temperature can present just as much of a hazard. Bring some water and be careful that you do not get too overheated if walking during the day.

7. Have a plan. While lackadaisically wandering around the town can seem like a good idea, wandering off into unfamiliar areas can be a bad thing to do. Most tourists do not know where the "bad" areas of town start. To give you a hint, don't go too far north or east of the strip.

8. Keep someone informed. If you are leaving part of your group behind, it's always wise to tell them where you plan to go and what time you plan to be back.

9. Take a good pair of shoes. Sometimes, safety starts with using the right equipment. Walking in high heels can be a bad idea if you are out on the strip. And someone may think you're there for another reason!

10. Act confident. While you may be a tourist, you don't have to act like one (though who else would be walking the strip)? The more you look like you know what you are doing, the more likely people are to leave you alone.