Tips to Make Sure You Are Prepared for an Emergency Abroad

Travelling is fun for the most part until you get into an emergency. Although we take necessary precautions and follow procedures when travelling abroad, setbacks are normal in daily life. We cannot entirely control what happens around us, but we can be prepared to deal with problems if and when they arise.

There is nothing more confusing than being stuck in a foreign country where people do not speak the same language as you. Navigating unfamiliar streets and language barriers can be quite challenging. In case of an emergency abroad, be keen to follow the laid down emergency procedures and services available during your visit. Ensure you ask the necessary questions before your visit to have the correct emergency contact information should you need it.

Some of the common travel-related emergencies are medical emergencies, lost luggage or personal items, flight delays, vehicle breakdowns, home emergencies, and natural disasters like earthquakes. So how do you handle such incidents should they occur? Here are a few tips to help you.

Tips for Handling a Travel Emergency

Prepare for a travel emergency in advance

It would be best to prepare for any travel-related emergencies before travelling abroad. The most important item is travel insurance. First, engage your local insurance companies to reduce your worry when travelling abroad for a detailed package. Although most insurance firms do not cover medical costs abroad, they will offer advice on where to get medical assistance. 

Secondly, get the location and contact details of your country’s consulate or embassy. Write those details down on a piece of paper that you will carry with you throughout your stay. 

Also, note down the local authorities and medical emergency contacts if they are provided before your visit. Include your immediate family contacts in case of an emergency, any allergies or medical conditions you have, your blood type, and the language you speak.

Buy a phone or sim card that works

Once you get to your destination, buy a phone or sim card that works in that country. Ensure you save your emergency contacts on the sim card and immediately contact your loved ones at home so they have your new number. 

If you have any medical conditions, list them on your phone should medical personnel need to access your records.

Listen to your instincts

Be on the lookout whenever you are in crowded places. Do not let your guard down and sit or stand next to exits if you need to make a quick gateway. 

If anything or anyone looks suspicious, report it to a nearby local authority and walk away. Avoid large gatherings or concerts in foreign countries as they tend to become rowdy quickly. 

How To React In Case Of A Travel Emergency

If something happens, try to remain as calm as possible. It may be difficult, but being alert will help you react easier in an unwanted situation. Look out for possible ways of escaping the situation via exit doors or open spaces. 

If local authorities are present, listen to them and follow their safety instructions. If you travel with family or friends, try to stay together as separation only escalates the situation. Find your way to a safe location or your local embassy listed in your emergency contacts. 

Update your social media regularly

The beauty of social media like Facebook and Instagram is that you can use them anywhere, with internet access. Document all your activities abroad in your socials. That way, friends and family back home know where you are at any given time. 

Should you get into an emergency, use your social media accounts to communicate with people and mark yourself as safe when necessary. Subscribe to pages that give you regular updates on all news worldwide.

Local policies and procedures

Strictly follow any laid down policies and procedures by the local government. If the area has a curfew, ensure you adhere to it and when asked to produce your travel documents, have them ready. If you have an emergency, allow the people you are with and can trust to assist you.

Wrapping Up

Whenever you get into an emergency abroad, staying calm is the key to a possible resolution. Keep your family updated by any means possible and only use the services of a trusted travel agency that offers 24 hours emergency assistance to their customers.