As I travel, I develop habits which I find helpful and practical. These habits have saved me time, money and they have kept me safe.
- Before I Leave Home – I photocopy and screen shot from my cellphone my passport, visa, driver’s license and put them all in my bag. I make sure that I have fully charged my cellphone. I would call credit card companies informing/advising them about my trip so I would not encounter problems when I need to use them. I stock up my pantry and refrigerator with milk, cereals, juice, etc. I wouldn’t want to arrive home and find the need to run to the grocery just to buy them. I unplug the electronics and appliance that are not being used. I make sure the windows and doors are locked. I secure my house and car keys.
- Arriving at the airport early – Being at the airport at least 2 hours for domestic or 4 hours for international flight gives me ample time for check in, security and immigration. Arriving early means I don’t have to rush and stress myself out. I can take my time to explore the shops for souvenirs and other stuff, and even try one of the cafes or restaurants. I consider being at the airport as one of my “me” times. Everyone is usually busy in the airport so I find myself reading a magazine or book, writing a blog article, praying the rosary, checking my emails and other social media, and reviewing my travel itinerary.
- At the hotel – Upon arrival at the hotel, I ask for the hotel’s business card especially in some Asian and European places where language could be a barrier when communicating with taxi drivers or just in case I get lost. I also distribute these cards to my kids and/or to everyone I am traveling with.
Before entering my hotel room, I always check if all the keys are working and I hang the do-not-disturb sign outside the door even if I am going out (making sure to switch it to make-up-room before leaving the next day if I want to have my room cleaned).
Then I examine the entire room and bathroom making sure that everything’s working from air-conditioning to the heater in the shower. I unpack my bag, put my essentials in its proper place like my toiletry bag in the bathroom, my charger on the table/ side table, my clothes in the closet and my important stuff like passport and cash inside the safety deposit box. I only bring my photocopied documents and my driver’s licence with me if I’ll be going out. Before sleeping, I always make sure to double lock the door and avoid opening it when someone’s knocking during wee hours. 
- The Neighborhood – As soon as I am done unpacking, I beat jet lag by going out and familiarizing myself with the hotel’s surrounding. Is it safe for me to walk alone or with kids especially at night?
Is there a coin operated laundromat within the area? I consider booking a hotel that has a convenience store nearby to buy necessities like water, fruits and emergency medicines (we all know that drinks and food from mini bar can be pricey). Are there restaurants too? Where is the nearest metro or bus stop from my hotel if I am not taking the taxi or uber?
My travel experiences have taught me to become a better and wiser traveler. I have learned to avoid wearing anything that could draw attention and become a victim of pickpockets or crimes. I try to act like a local and avoid holding a map in public. I wouldn’t want to ruin my vacation by getting into any mishaps. It is not about being paranoid, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
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