Family Trip Deals

A family trip isn’t necessarily mom, dad and the kids. Maybe the genders have decided to take separate and different vacations. Whatever works for your family is great and you’ll still want to look for the best deals in transportation, lodging, and entertainment. The other consideration is safety. Every woman should have some type of travel guide for safety. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, you will see that more and more women are now traveling all over the world. Although this may seem like a good thing, you have to remember that if you travel to other parts of the world, women are sometimes viewed as weak and unable to defend themselves. This is why, safety first should always be at the top of your agenda.

So, here are some tips that women can use in order to have an enjoyable and much safer trip whenever traveling abroad.

First of all, always do your research on the country you plan on traveling to. Remember that not all countries are the same in regards to culture and tradition. Some countries are culturally conservative and will have dress codes that everyone should follow. Always familiarize yourself on the laws and customs of the place you wish to go to. Remember that ignorance of the law excuses no one even if you are a tourist.

Despite the state of our global relations some US citizens still take trips to Saudi Arabia; for pleasure and for business. If you travel there, you have to remember that tourists here and even women may be detained by the police for improper dresses. You may want to make a statement, but keep in mind that what may be casual wear for you may be seen as provocative or inappropriate in other countries. You can never go wrong with jeans and a t-shirt that covers most of your body. Also, these clothes are better option than skirts if you need to run or defend yourself. Islamic nations tend to be very conservative especially in regards to women. In fact, in some countries, it’s even illegal to invite people of the opposite sex in your hotel room. And, only married couples are allowed to stay in the same hotel room.

Whenever traveling, it is always a good idea to try and blend in with the public. Try buying a local dress and wear it to give other people the impression that you are a local and are familiar with the country.

To feel more secure whenever you are traveling around the country, consider carrying safety devices. Nothing outlandish or dangerous. The most readily available would be pepper spray. Many people consider self-defense spray to be an essential personal security need, therefore, the US DOT has made an allowance for their carriage in checked luggage. Whether you are a security consultant or a private citizen, you may bring ONE small self-defense spray with you when you travel by air. For more information on traveling with self-defense spray see DOT regulations, 49 CFR §175.10(a)(9). Before you pack a self-defense spray ensure that all of the following criteria are met:

You may NOT travel with:

• Do not bring more than one self-defense spray (see 49 CFR §171.8);
• Be sure it does not exceed 118 mL (4 fluid ounces);
• Ensure that the device incorporates a positive means to prevent accidental discharge (e.g., a safety latch or cap); and

Pack the self-defense spray in checked baggage only in a manner that will prevent damage or inadvertent release (e.g., pack in a protective case, ensure it is protected from other items in your baggage that may crush or damage it, pack it in a manner that protects it in case the checked baggage is dropped or damaged during handling).

In case you’re not familiar with it’s effects, pepper spray will temporarily blind a person and also disable them for 5 to 6 minutes, which is enough for you to run away and get help.

Whenever traveling in unfamiliar surroundings, always be alert. Never carry your wallet in your back pockets. You have to remember that some places are notorious for pickpockets and there are even places where children working with adults can slash your pants with a blade and get the contents of that pocket. Fanny packs may not be fashionable but they’re a safe way to carry cash as are belts that have pouches for cash or other valuables. You can be cute when you get home, safety first.

Always plan ahead for a safe and enjoyable vacation.