How to Protect Yourself While You’re Traveling

“I’m not as brave as you.”

I was recently chatting with a woman about her upcoming trip, and those six words stopped me in my tracks.

It’s a sentiment I hear often.

When women discuss their desire to see the world, safety is almost always the number one consideration.

Bravery isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the presence of a plan.

Whether you are heading to the next town over or a different continent, safety is a constant.

However, ensuring a memorable experience begins with a mindset shift:

You must define for yourself what it means to feel “safe.”

About the AuthorL Dr. Lisa Pittman, PHD

Dr. Lisa Pittman (“The TravelDocta”) is a licensed practicing psychologist and Certified Travel Coach (a graduate of the Travel Coach Network’s Travel Coach Certification Program).

She specializes in working with Black Professional Women, with the objective of helping them prioritize their identity, health, and well-being so they can feel seen, empowered, and free to live authentically!

With a travel portfolio that includes having visited over 100 countries, all 50 United States, and all 7 continents, The TravelDocta has recognized and reflected on the impact of travel on and for Black Professional Women.

She focuses on helping Black Professional Women enhance their sense of self and maximize their travel experience, one trip at a time.

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Understanding the “Barometer of Safety”

We often look to external sources to tell us if we are secure.

A family member recently told me she would only consider international destinations with a U.S. Level 1 Safety Rating (“Exercise Normal Precautions”).

While travel advisories are a practical tool, they are also subjective.

Did you know that many nations (including the UK) have at times ranked the U.S. in higher risk categories?

Safety is relative.

Instead of asking “Is it safe?”, a more empowering question to ask yourself is:

“How much discomfort am I willing to tolerate, and how confident do I feel in my ability to regain my sense of security if things feel uncertain?”

As a travel coach, I help clients navigate this internal dialogue.

Once you’ve set your personal boundaries, you can use these four TravelDoctapillars to manage your physical and emotional safety on the ground.

1. The Art of Cultural Blending

To move safely is to move subtly.

Researching local attire isn’t about hiding who you are; it’s about showing respect and reducing your profile as a “target.”

• Know the Context: In Panama City, shorts are fine but will mark you as a tourist. In many Muslim-majority countries, opting for linen pants and covered shoulders keeps you cool while honoring local norms.
  
  
• The Footwear Rule: Never “break in” shoes on a trip. Blisters create a physical distraction that takes your focus away from your surroundings. Wear sturdy, practical shoes that allow you to move quickly and comfortably.

2. Master the Currency Early

Nothing screams “vulnerable tourist” like fumbling with a handful of unfamiliar coins at a busy market.

• Prep Before Departure: Order a small amount of local currency from your bank before you leave. This gives you time to tactilely learn the denominations in the comfort of your home.
  
  
• The “Stealth” Count: Use a wallet with a deep pocket or a small coin purse. I often pour coins onto a counter in a quiet shop to learn them, or use a wallet that allows me to count bills surreptitiously without flashing a wad of cash.
  
  
• Post-Trip Hygiene: Many credit card companies no longer require travel alerts. While convenient, this means you must be extra diligent. Monitor your statements for 3–4 weeks after you return to catch any delayed compromises.

3. Walk with Purpose (The “Digital Map” Strategy)

Confidence is a deterrent.

If you look like you know where you’re going, you are less likely to be disturbed.

• The Pre-Walk Peek: Before leaving your hotel or restaurant, study your map app. Memorize the next three turns.
  
  
• The “Safe Harbor” Move: If you get lost, don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk. Step into a hotel lobby, a café, or a shop doorway to re-orient yourself. This keeps your back protected and your belongings out of the flow of traffic.
  
  
• Don’t Forget the Basics: Safety also includes your physical health. Hydrate, use sunblock (apply it before your bug repellent!), and stay aware of how the sun interacts with any medications you’re taking.

4. Leverage the Local Network

You don’t have to navigate transportation alone. In many areas… even within the U.S., ride-share apps aren’t reliable or tourists may be overcharged.

• The Professional Assist: Have your hotel concierge or restaurant host call a taxi for you in the local language. This ensures the destination is clear and the fare is often understood or metered fairly.
  
  
• The Business Card Hack: Always grab a business card from your hotel lobby. If you get lost or there is a language barrier, you can simply show the card to a driver to get back to your home base safely.

Want to Dive Deeper?

On my website, you’ll find dozens of articles that provide in-depth guides to destinations I’ve visited.

And on this page specifically, you’ll find all of my best travel tips.

I’d also love to connect with you on Instagram over at @thetraveldocta.

You can also find and follow me on LinkedIn.

Or, you can click here to learn more about working with me.

Finally, you can learn more about my travel coaching services here on my website.

Listen to the Travel Coach Network Podcast

If you love listening to, learning about, and discussing topics like these in the travel industry, then you’ll love this show!

You can find it on any major podcast player.

Free Resources for Future Travel Coaches

Check out these other free resources for aspiring travel coaches:

• Listen to the Travel Coach Network Podcast
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• Join the FREE Travel Coach Community Facebook Group
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• Connect with the Travel Coach Network on Instagram
  Have a quick question? Send us a DM! You’ll hear from me or a member of my team quickly.