Traveling solo can be exhilarating, but it can leave you susceptible to crime. There is a lot to do to not only stay safe but to also have fun on your trip. Keep reading this article to stay safe when you’re away from home.

When going abroad, use ATMs to get some cash instead of using an exchange service. In most cases, banks and other financial institutions are able to get far better rates of exchange that you ever personally could alone. The amount will vary; however, this can save you a lot of money.

Create a list of what to pack. You should start this list at least one week in advance, preferably earlier than that. The list should include all of your necessities for the trip. This way, even if you pack the day before you leave, it will be easier and you won’t forget any essential items.

Window Seat

Choosing a seat on the aisle will open more options for you. While a window seat will give you a nice view, it can also lead to some problems. It’s trickier to get up and use the bathroom or get to your baggage when you’re sitting in a window seat. Aisle seats are also more comfortable.

Sign up for a travel price watcher. A lot of websites allow you to specify your destinations and will monitor prices for you. If your hotel price or airfare drops by a certain amount, as you decide, the site alerts you with an email about the change. You will not have to worry about checking the rates daily.

If you drive to any port city prior to going on your cruise, you can find hotels that offer free parking upon arriving the night before. Ask the staff at the hotel where you stay about parking deals they may offer.

If you’re traveling somewhere where you’ll need tickets, like amusement parks or a play, look for ways to have them ahead of time. You will generally pay a nominal fee for this service, but you won’t have to wait in ticket lines when you arrive. If the park uses a timed entry system, you won’t need to wait in line to enter, either.

Keep close track of your belongings while traveling, especially important things like money and identification. When carrying a handbag, hold it securely against your body using your arm. Do not rely on shoulder straps alone. Also, do not use bags that someone can easily open on a crowded subway or in another crowded public area. You should keep these things in mind when trying to find a travel bag that will be reliable for you.

Make sure that someone you trust back home knows your travel itinerary. This person should always know your location. Keep in contact with them constantly to enure safety. If they are aware of your location and you contact them regularly, no one will need to worry.

For your morning coffee, melt ice overnight. Tap water is not always the best tasting option, so fill up the ice bucket with lots of ice to melt overnight. This allows you to brew that fresh tasting coffee using a different kind of filtered water.

Rush Hour

Try not to schedule your trip during heavy travel times. If you can’t plan your trip where you won’t be driving during rush hour, use that time to stop for a break. Rush hour is a great time to grab a bite to eat or get out and stretch your legs.

Think about packing a pair of cookie sheets if you are going on the road with kids. These sheets make a great flat surface for kids to color on or play cards. They also work great in tandem with bright magnetic numbers and letters.

Make sure that your passports are valid. Some countries have very specific rules regarding passports, including when they expire. Some countries won’t allow you to come to their country if your passport is about to expire. These time frames can range anywhere from three months to a year.

Try opting in to e-newsletters of major airlines. These emails will give you special deals and information regarding the travel they offer. While you might think that these e-newsletters are just extra clutter filling up your inbox, it will be worth it if you save money.

Try to score the “local” rate for a hotel, when you travel. Hotels often provide special deals to local citizens in an attempt to fill their rooms. If you know someone who resides in your destination city, ask them to call about any special offers that might be available. It doesn’t hurt to ask and it can save you a bit.

As was stated in the beginning of this article, although traveling alone can be a great experience, you can become more vulnerable to crime. Groups can be safer, but there are lots of ways to protect yourself when traveling on your own. Use this advice to be safe while traveling.