10 Actions for Security and Safety When Traveling

1. I looked online for every major city we have planned to stay in for longer than a few days.
2. I listed the local emergency phone number, 911, or 113 and 112 for most European countries.
3. I found and marked the local hospitals on each city’s map.
4. I listed the number(s) for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates and their locations.
5. I looked up locations for U.S. military bases in each country if they had any.
6. We made ICE, or In Case of Emergency cards with our vital information and even medications/history on them.
7. We literally discussed our self-defense plan of action should one of us be in a physical altercation somehow.
8. We left folders with our itinerary and vital information and contact information with family.
9. We used an attorney and prepared our Wills and Health Care Power of Attorney documents.
10. We purchased trip insurance and travel medical insurance with a focus on emergency evacuation and emergency medical transportation back home if necessary. (Not that we own much, but neither of us wear any expensive jewelry or accessories.)

We are planners. Always have been. We talked with other travelers and watched enough videos to know we went above and beyond what most Nomadic travelers admit to doing. Take from it what you will. We will always try and have a plan, and a backup plan.

Most of all, we trust each other’s instincts. Yes, there have been two or three times now in 12 weeks where one or the other has said, “Let’s not go this way.” Or “I feel uncomfortable.” No questions asked, we immediately turn around or leave that spot.
With the immense amount of overall planning, and the amount of security planning we did, I am sure I left a few things out, but these articles should give you a great start.

We feel safe. Very safe. Safer than if we were walking in most major U.S. cities, and we even go out well after sunset. We’ll re-evaluate and keep you posted along the way, and especially after each nation we visit.