Studying abroad is a chance to unlock a completely new experience. You get to travel to a distant land, learn from some of the most acclaimed academics in their respective fields, and mingle with people from different cultures. In the past, this was the only way to expand your horizons. Even today, in the internet age, this is the best way to broaden your worldviews.
Still, going abroad is a risky endeavor.
In your hometown, you know which streets to avoid at night and which neighborhoods are best avoided even during the day. You know which sorts of behavior are seen as reckless and provocative. Most importantly, if you went missing, everyone would notice. While it may not be as dire, none of these things will be true when you study abroad.
With that in mind, you must take more care of your safety. Here are five safety tips that most international students should abide by.
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1. Always let someone know when you’re leaving
Your roommates are the people who’ll probably notice first if something’s up. So, staying in touch with them isn’t just polite – it’s smart. They share the same space with you, so they’ll sense if something’s off. Most importantly, they’ll notice if you’re absent and who you spend most of your time with.
Don’t forget about your friends and family back home. They might be far, but they can still be a safety net. Regular check-ins can give them peace of mind and let them react if something feels wrong on your end. They know you better than anyone.
When you’re heading out, make it a habit to tell someone where you’re going. It’s small, but it goes a long way in keeping you safe. If anything feels off, at least someone knows where you are headed and can act faster.
You might not love the idea, but letting someone track your location with an app can be a huge safety net. This ranking list of tools by Techopedia contains many great resources you can use. Remember, these apps are completely legal if you consent to the other party using them. If this feels too excessive, you could at least consent to a tracker app.
2. Be aware of local laws and customs
One of the first things you should do in a new country is learn basic laws. It’s not about becoming a legal expert but just knowing what’s legal. Avoiding unnecessary trouble is much easier when you know the local rules. The fact that you didn’t know something was illegal is not going to be a strong argument in front of authorities. When in Rome…
Local customs can be very different from what you’re used to. The worst part is that you’ll base assumptions on laws in your home country, which can be dangerous. Knowing what’s expected of you culturally helps you fit in and avoid awkward or risky situations. For instance, what’s acceptable back home might be frowned upon here, so it’s worth paying attention.
It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how easy it is to break the law accidentally if you don’t know the rules. Things that are completely fine in one country can be illegal in another. You see, keeping things simple and clear of trouble should always be your goal.
When you’re abroad, it’s even more critical that you respect authorities. They enforce the laws that are designed to keep everyone safe. If you run into any issues, treat them with respect. It’ll make any situation easier to handle and even increase the chances that they’ll resolve the issue faster (and to your benefit).
3. Secure your documents and valuables
Losing your passport abroad can turn into a nightmare. A simple solution is always to keep copies, both physical and digital. Having copies means you’re not scrambling if the worst happens. It’s small but can save you a ton of stress.
Make sure you don’t just leave your important documents lying around. Keep them safe, whether it’s a locked drawer in your accommodation or a secure bag. Moreover, reducing the risk of them getting lost or stolen is crucial while you’re abroad.
Walking around with loads of cash isn’t just risky – it’s also wholly unnecessary. Stick to carrying just enough for the day and rely on cards when possible. It’s easier to replace a stolen card than cash. Plus, it reduces the temptation for would-be thieves. They know they won’t figure out your PIN when they see you carrying a card. A wallet full of cash, on the other hand, will spark their curiosity.
Anti-theft bags might sound like overkill, but they can seriously save you a headache. Features like hidden zippers and cut-proof straps make it much harder for thieves to access your belongings, providing an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
4. Know how to contact emergency services
Take a few minutes to memorize the local emergency numbers. It’s a quick and simple step, but it can make a world of difference if you find yourself in a tough situation. Having this information at your fingertips means you can react quickly in an emergency.
If something goes wrong, your country’s embassy or consulate can be a major resource. Keep their contact info on hand, just in case. Embassies are there to help you navigate legal issues or emergencies, so don’t hesitate to reach out if needed.
Knowing the location of the closest hospital can save valuable time in a medical emergency. Take a moment to find out where it is before you actually need it. Moreover, this proactive step can help you act faster and get the help you need sooner. In most scenarios, this will make a difference.
Plenty of apps can alert authorities or trusted contacts if you’re in danger. Install one on your phone for added peace of mind. Moreover, these apps can be set to notify someone with just a tap, making it easier to call for help in an emergency.
5. Choose safe transportation options
Hopping into an unmarked or unlicensed taxi may seem convenient, but it can be hazardous. Always use trusted services like official taxis or even Uber. You want to be sure that the person driving you knows the rules and won’t put you in a bad situation.
Public transport can be a great option, but it’s best to stick to peak hours. Crowded buses or trains are safer and reduce the chances of being targeted by pickpockets or other troublemakers. The more people around, the safer you’ll feel. Just remember that a crowd makes it easier for them to sneak up on you, so clutch your wallet tightly. Moreover, public transportation will be much lighter on your budget.
If you’re walking somewhere, choose routes that are well-lit and busy. Dark, empty streets aren’t just spooky – they’re more dangerous. Sticking to busy areas might add a few extra minutes to your trip, but it’s worth it for the added safety.
Whenever you’re heading out, share your route with someone you trust. Whether through a simple message or a location-sharing app, it makes a difference. Previously, we’ve talked about the importance of telling them you’re heading out, but now, it’s about giving them your exact itinerary.
Staying safe while studying abroad is more challenging than you think
Travelling comes with the unknown. You often have no clue which bars are safe to go to or which streets are safe. You have no idea what kind of a comment will spark a fight, and if you were to go missing, it’s questionable how long it would take for someone to notice. This is why you need to be extra careful and make sure you take the necessary steps to increase your safety.
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