4 self-defense skills every female traveler should know

Traveling can be life-changing, but it can also be a dangerous experience if you’re not careful. Whether you are traveling in your own city or abroad you must always take key precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Between keeping track of your personal items (wallet, phone ID card), trying to figure out your way around the city and visiting multiple destinations each day, things can get quite chaotic!

To help all women stay safe while travelling, here is a list of personal safety tips to keep in mind when in an airport, train station or unfamiliar city…

1. Stay aware of your surroundings by scanning your environment. No matter how busy you are, never allow your mind to wander. It might seem important in the moment to be making a to-do list in your head, but if you are worrying about other things you might not notice the obvious, like someone following you, reading your email over your shoulder or sliding a hand into your purse.

2. Park in well-lit areas. Avoid spots next to vans, trucks or cars with tinted windows. You want to keep your car and yourself as visible as possible, so you should also avoid parking next to tall bushes, shrubs or plants that could block views of you or your vehicle.

3. Don’t wear your purse so that the strap crosses your body. Wearing your strap around your body makes you more connected to your bag. If someone tries to steal your purse, you will be pulled with the strap. This could cause you to become unbalanced or end up in a physical alteration with the thief. If your purse is simply draped on one shoulder you can easily let go.

4. Dress casually and comfortably. Now it’s not the time to try and make a fashion statement. Leave the high heels and flashy jewelry at home or in your luggage until you arrive at your destination. Jeans and sneakers will help you to blend in and if needed enable you to make a quick getaway.

Always keep one arm and hand free of luggage and other gear. Many people think it’s wise to travel with lots of bags, purses and laptop bags, but if your arms and hands are tied up with bags you will have no means of defending yourself from an attacker.

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Written By: Christine Romans