Study Abroad Safety

As I start my third time studying abroad, I have picked up some of the best safety hacks along the way. I am just beginning to realize how little the average person is educated on these topics so please share with anyone who is about to study abroad! For the record, I have never gotten my passport or phone stolen while I was abroad because these tricks work.

Most universities will give a safety talk during orientation. These are usually vague and are not practical. Some of the tips that you will hear about will work but they will only be foolproof is you add additional methods to protect your belongings.

While a university's advice might help but it is not candid enough to help in locations where you truly need it. And that is why I am here. The places where you are most vulnerable to pickpockets is often not where you would expect. It is when you are out at night! You are distracted, You're supposed to be having fun. It is usually dark and people are bumping into you anyways. Finally, you're probably intoxicated! All of these factors will expose you to a higher risk of theft. So I have developed tricks that will keep you safe on your night out.

1. Wear a money belt!

It's not sexy or cute but when you hide it under your clothes no one will ever see it. I put my cards, my keys and emergency money in here. That way you know that your important belongings are on your body.

2. Invest in a safety purse

When I go out I prefer not to carry anything but I know girls that always have to have a purse with them. Your cross body purse is not as safe as you'd like to think! the best way to protect your stuff is to wear it on your body under your clothes but if you have to have a purse lock it. They make special safety purses that prevent against theft or you can simply purchase a lock and slip it through the zipper.

So I know you will probably want to document the night with snapchats and stories and this would be difficult if your phone is either in your money belt or locked up in your purse. So how do I keep my phone safe? I almost always wear jeans when I go out so I can slide my phone between the zipper of my pants and my money belt. Yeah, it is kind of weird to slide your phone in your crotch! It is going to feel so strange the first time you try it. But this is the best way to protect it!

3. This applies everywhere!!! Never set your phone down. If you are out to eat it should be on your person or locked in a bag. When you are in a club it should not be in your hand. Always make sure your belongings are secure and this will reduce your risk.

I hope these tips help, please reach out if you have any additional questions.