Visitor Safety: Travel Insurance, Scams, and Health — A Practical Guide

Travel should broaden horizons, not expose you to avoidable risks. This practical guide covers travel insurance basics, common scams to watch for, and key health considerations to prepare for safe travels in 2026.

Travel insurance essentials

Travel insurance varies widely. Look for policies that cover trip cancellation, medical evacuation, emergency medical expenses, and baggage loss. For longer or higher-risk trips, ensure the policy includes medical evacuation and return-home coverage. If you have pre-existing conditions, ask about medical underwriting.

Comparing plans

Compare premiums based on trip length, destination, age, and planned activities. Adventure activities like rock climbing or scuba diving often require special coverage. Read exclusions carefully — many budget policies exclude pandemic-related cancellations or high-risk sports.

Claims and documentation

Maintain a digital folder with receipts, medical records, police reports, and itinerary copies. Many insurers accept photos, but originals help. Note emergency contact numbers and the insurer’s 24/7 assistance line.

Common scams and how to avoid them

Scammers adapt to travel contexts. Some typical scams include fake police checks, taxi meter tricks, distraction thefts, and bogus ticket vendors. Here’s how to reduce risk:

• Use official transport options or vetted apps for rides.
• Carry minimal cash and use card tap options when safe.
• If approached by someone claiming to be police, ask for identification and move to a public place.
• Purchase tickets from official vendors only.

Personal security tips

Blend into your surroundings by avoiding conspicuous valuables. Use a money belt or inside pocket and keep copies of essential documents. Share your itinerary with someone at home and check in periodically.

Health preparedness

Check required and recommended vaccinations for your destination. Many countries list health advisories online. Bring a basic medical kit with your medications, pain relief, antiseptic, rehydration salts, and tweezers. If you need specific prescriptions, carry a copy of the prescription and generic names to avoid issues filling them abroad.

Food and water safety

When in doubt, choose cooked food and bottled or filtered water. Street food can be safe if cooked hot and busy — turnover matters. Carry a reusable water bottle with a filter for regions with uncertain tap water quality.

Traveling during health crises

Prepare for last-minute rules, testing, and entry requirements by following official government pages and airline communications. Purchase policies that offer pandemic-related coverage if you expect shifting entry regulations; otherwise, assume limited coverage for government-mandated quarantine unless specified.

Emergency planning

Identify nearby hospitals and the embassy or consulate contact for your country. Registering your trip with your government’s travel advisory service can speed assistance if needed.

Special considerations for solo travelers

Solo travelers should prioritize visible contact options, credible local recommendations for accommodations, and pre-arranged airport transfers. Join local groups or tours for activities after dark rather than exploring unknown areas alone.

Safety apps and technology

Consider a travel safety app with SOS features, offline maps, and local emergency numbers. Keep your phone backed up and encrypted where possible, and use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.

Final checklist

• Buy an appropriate travel insurance policy and save contact details offline.
• Prepare a digital and physical copy of essential documents.
• Pack a basic medical kit and any prescription documentation.
• Research local scams and security advisories for your destination.
• Share your itinerary with a trusted contact and schedule check-ins.

Travel carries risk, but with informed preparation, flexibility, and common-sense habits, most issues are manageable. Safety planning is part of the journey — it helps you travel more confidently and enjoyably.