Traveling is an incredible way to grow and experience the beauty of the world around us. While many people travel without encountering dangerous situations, it’s never a bad idea to take a few extra moments to make sure you are prepared to avoid bad situations while traveling.
Here are ten travel safety products and tools that you should check out before your next trip!
Portable Door Lock
While your hotel room will likely have a lock, there are still ways that nefarious people will be able to bypass it and access your room anyways. Luckily you can buy a portable door lock for under $10. These consist of a metal piece that can be placed against the latch bolt on the door and then the door is closed. It’s that simple to create an extra level of security on your travels.
Wedge Door Stop
Another way to add an extra layer of security to your accommodations while traveling is to bring a simple wedge doorstop with you. You’ve probably seen these used to prop doors open, but they can absolutely be used to keep a door closed! You can buy them for a few bucks online and you can find small but effective models that can easily fit in your suitcase.
Fake Wedding Ring
If you’re a woman, you’ve probably heard of this one already. An easy way to deflect unwanted male attention is to don a fake wedding or engagement ring. You don’t have to spend too much to get one – just find a sparkly ring that’s comfortable to wear and put it in your pocket or purse to take with you. Hopefully, you won’t need to use it – but if you do, it’ll be easy to slip onto your finger.
Bagnet
A great way to avoid having to keep your purse at your feet or hang it up somewhere that might seem a little far out of your reach is to purchase a Bagnet! These cute and functional devices look like little keychains but they’re made with a super-strong magnet that allows them to stick to magnetic surfaces like bathroom doors or bars. It attaches to your purse as any keychain would and it can hold up to 8 pounds. They come in a variety of stylish designs and prices start at $20.99.
Pen & paper
One of the most simple tools that you can bring with you on your travels is a simple pen and a pad of paper. Not only can they help keep you organized and help you avoid getting lost or something like that. If you’re feeling unsafe, you can use it to write a note to your server for help or to jot down a description of a vehicle, a person, or a taxi driver’s badge number. Pens and paper are also great if you are traveling to a country where the main language is one you’re not familiar with.
Keyring Flashlight
An easy and effective device that can help you a lot is a keyring flashlight. These days you can find models that are lightweight while still durable and capable of emitting a strong light. While many phones and devices offer a flashlight feature, you should never rely on your phone 100% as the battery can die. Plus, the light that a phone flashlight can emit may not be strong enough to help you out. Whether the power goes out or you are hiking somewhere at night and need an extra bit of light, a keyring flashlight can be a huge help.
Alarm with Light & Sound
If you’re in a position where you are being threatened and need to draw the attention of passersby to help you out, an alarm device that emits loud sounds and bright lights can help you out. The Birdie Personal Safety Alarm is a great option if you’re looking for something like this. They retail at about $30 each although you can save if you buy in bulk. These sleek and stylish devices can look like keychains and attach to purses or belt loops with ease. It’s also lightweight and conveniently sized as each device is about the size of a standard car key.
Alarm Apps
If you don’t want to buy a separate device to function as an alarm, you can actually download apps that do something similar. The OneScream app is a great example as it can help you not only create a noise that could alert nearby strangers who can help, but you can also set it up to call or notify up to three contacts of your choosing. The device is triggered by your scream so you don’t need to unlock your phone to call for help.
Google Maps
The last tool you should have to keep you safe while traveling is something you probably have already used – Google Maps! This free application can be downloaded on most mobile devices and can be used throughout the world. One of the best features of Google Maps is the fact that you can actually use it offline. This can be a lifesaver when you’re using it in another country or if you’re in a small town or village without reliable phone service.