Traveling is a welcome escape for most of us. It’s a way to forget all your worries and transport yourself to a world away. As much as we’d love to forget all of our responsibilities, thinking about your safety and traveling responsibly is important. This is especially true if you plan on going to a remote area. Whether you plan on hiking the mountains or visiting small towns in a lesser-developed country, extra preparation is crucial. Consider when and where you’re traveling, as well as what to bring, when considering your safety preparedness. The last thing we want to think about while on our vacation is an emergency, but making these basic travel preparations will decrease your risk of any ill events.
Do Your Research
Before your trip, research the weather and local customs of your destination, as some places may have unique dress code restrictions compared to what you are familiar with. These limitations can be both official and rooted in local traditions. Browse online resources and blogs where travelers have shared their experiences in these locations. Some churches in Europe for example require knees and shoulders to be covered.
Additionally, gather information on necessary health precautions, such as immunizations for region-specific illnesses. For instance, if you’re planning an African safari, you might need to get vaccinated against malaria, depending on the area.
Some countries even require travelers to receive certain vaccinations before entry. Websites like TravelHealthConnect and the official CDC website provide comprehensive information on mandatory and recommended vaccines. Be sure to consult these resources before planning your trip to ensure a worry-free global adventure.
While spontaneity is important for many travellers, you should plan out at least a shell of an itinerary. How will you get from place to place? What are the ground transportation options in the area, and do they need to be booked ahead of time? Scout out the area on Google maps to familiarize yourself with the accommodations that are nearby, such as hospitals, grocery stores, or bus stops.
Come Prepared
Traveling light is what we always hear from travel experts. But when journeying to remote destinations, do bring some extra supplies and a travel partner.
The basics include a canteen, canvas bag, and bottled water, as dehydration poses the greatest ongoing threat in an extended emergency situation, such as being stranded or cut off from civilization due to severe weather. Similarly, pack non-perishable foods like beef jerky and granola bars. Having water purification tablets or a filtering vessel is wise in case your water supply runs low.
Even if you will be in a city, some first aid supplies will be useful. However if you will be in an area far from immediate assistance, a complete first aid kit is indispensable. You can buy a pre-packaged kit or put together your own to fit your circumstance.
In addition to first aid, bring medications like ibuprofen, antihistamines, and antibiotics. If someone is feeling under the weather, you won’t want to postpone your plans for that day to go on the hunt for a pharmacy. Depending on where you are, there may not even be a pharmacy.
Other items include a printed local map in addition to digital phone maps, an LED flashlight, a heat-retaining blanket, sunscreen, safety pins or scissors, duct tape, etc. Remember to bring a power source to charge your phone and flashlight as needed.
If you are going to be really remote, consider taking a wilderness first aid course like these from GEM. You can learn the basic situations that could arise in remote areas and how to treat yourself and others in your group.
Once You Arrive
Certain tasks may need to be completed upon arrival. Inform local authorities of your presence “in the field” and the length of your stay. Someone back home should also have your itinerary. Maintain regular check-ins on remote or urban trips.
Keep in mind that not all smartphones will have coverage in every location. Conduct research on your destination beforehand to avoid any unexpected connectivity issues.
If you need to travel by car, ensure your vehicle is suitable for the terrain and can accommodate the necessary fuel. Familiarizing yourself with local road regulations is essential and an international driver’s permit may be required. If renting a vehicle, opt for a bright color to increase visibility in case of an emergency, as staying near the vehicle can improve your chances of a swift rescue.
Adequate preparation leads to a more enjoyable experience. A vacation in a remote location can be very freeing, and by following these precautions, you’ll be well on your way to a fantastic journey.
