Generally, the answer is a resounding yes. Violent crime in Croatia is rare, and overall crime levels are quite low, making it extremely safe to travel to Croatia. The U.S. State Department has given Croatia its lowest travel advisory level, Level One, indicating that you should “exercise normal precautions” when traveling.

Still, there are a few Croatia travel warnings that you should be aware of before arriving in this Balkan nation. As in most popular tourist destinations, pickpocketing and petty theft are common, so make sure to take the normal precautions, including keeping your wallet and phone in your front pocket and investing in a slash-resistant purse or backpack.

Also, some political tension does remain from the Croatian War of Independence, which, from 1991 to 1995, secured Croatia’s freedom from Yugoslavia. This means that occasional racially or ethnically motivated crimes do occur, according to the U.S. State Department. In addition, the threat of terrorism exists across all of Europe, but the U.S. government considers Zagreb a ”low-threat” area

It’s also good to keep in mind that Croatia sits on an earthquake fault and is subject to occasional minor seismic events. In recent years these have not been severe.

Tips for Staying Safe in Croatia

• Know where you’re going and when. Avoid dangers in Croatia by steering clear of certain parks at night, forgoing Zagreb’s shady strip clubs, staying away from political demonstrations, and doing all you can to thwart pickpockets wherever you go.
• Road safety can be an issue in Croatia, so drive with caution, if you drive at all. Beware of untrustworthy taxi drivers, as well as thieves who target travelers on trains and buses. And if you’re headed out to hike in Croatia’s forests, consult with a guide first, since the weather can be unpredictable.
• There are certain regions in Croatia where unexploded landmines are an ongoing danger. If you find yourself traveling off the beaten path, watch for posted warning signs, avoid ditches and open fields, and don’t veer off paved roads. If you’re in doubt about where you’re headed, don’t hesitate to ask locals for safety advice.

Safe Places—and Places to Avoid—in Croatia

Before we elaborate on the safest parts of Croatia, it’s worth answering a common question: “Where is Croatia?” It’s located on Europe’s Balkan Peninsula and bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Its coastline runs along the Adriatic Sea.

When looking at Croatia’s map and deciding where to go, keep in mind that there are some mildly dangerous places. In general, Zagreb has a higher risk of petty crimes that target travelers—especially pickpocketing—than Croatia’s other cities. Steer clear, especially, of the area around the seedy Zagreb Bus Terminal, and avoid Ribnjak Park and King Tomislav Square after dark.

Zagreb’s strip clubs are not safe for travelers. Violent fights are common, as are scams that involve egregiously overcharging tourists for drinks, sometimes by thousands of euros. When a customer complains about the exorbitant bill, bouncers bully him into paying with threats of violence.

Croatia’s nightclubs and bars (the non-strip variety, too) are also notorious for overcharging, so check your bill before paying and stick to reputable venues recommended by mainstream guidebooks. As with any destination, be careful at nightlife venues as drink and food spiking is common. This practice targets male travelers, too, with the intent of robbing them once they’re drowsy. So watch as your drink is being made, never leave your food or beverage unattended, and don’t accept cocktails from strangers.

Be particularly vigilant for pickpockets and other thieves on Croatia’s popular beaches along the Adriatic coast—go experience them, by all means, but know that many of these tourist towns see an uptick in petty crime over the busy summer months.

Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings in Croatia; though most are peaceful, they can occasionally turn violent or otherwise dangerous. If you find yourself in an area where an event like this is taking place, follow instructions from local authorities.

If you’re looking for Croatia’s safest places to visit, Zagreb’s Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and Lower Town (Donji Grad), both known for great restaurants and museums, tend to be very safe for travelers, though tourists should still be on high alert for pickpockets. Medvednica, the mountain overlooking Zagreb, and Medvedgrad, a preserved fortress, are very safe, both by day and by night, and are worthwhile destinations. According to one recent report, the safest place in Croatia is the beautiful, quiet Dalmatian town of Sinj, near Split; it’s followed by the towns of Dakovo, Pozega, Samobor, and Krizevci. Split and Dubrovnik made the top 15.

How to Get Around Safely in Croatia

To answer the question of whether Croatia is dangerous, one must look beyond crime rates and onto the roads. Many governments’ Croatia travel warnings note that road safety can be an issue and recommend that travelers exercise caution when driving in Croatia. Many of Croatia’s smaller roads (especially in Istria and along the Adriatic Coast) are poorly maintained, lack guardrails, and get slippery when wet, warns the Government of Canada. If you find yourself in trouble and needing emergency road assistance, call +385 1-1987, a service that’s staffed by English-speaking operators. During the tourist season, English-language traffic information is broadcast at 98.5 FM.

As for taxis, avoid scams by only taking official taxis with working meters, and by familiarizing yourself with Croatian money so that you don’t get cheated with incorrect change. Uber is a good alternative in some Croatian cities.

Most forms of public transportation are fairly safe in Croatia, though you might want to avoid the aforementioned Zagreb bus terminal after dark. If you take the bus or train, guard your valuables, especially at night, making sure that your passport and other valuables are locked and secure.

In general, to decrease your chances of becoming a crime victim in Croatia, don’t display signs of wealth, don’t carry large amounts of cash, never accept anything from strangers, beware of pickpockets at all times, never leave valuables unattended (especially on the beach), and use your in-room hotel safe. The emergency phone number in Croatia is 112, though you can also 192 to reach the police specifically. If you need assistance, you can also reach out to your home country’s embassy.

Croatia’s mountains are beautiful, so many travelers come here to hike. If that’s your plan, make sure to seek expert advice from local guides, even if you’re embarking on what seems like an easy trek. The weather in Croatia’s mountains is fickle, even in summer, and temperatures can drop dramatically overnight. Solo hikers have gotten lost in the mountains, so join a group if you can. Call the emergency number, 112, if you need help.

If you’re headed to Croatia’s northern forests, take precautions against ticks (which can transmit encephalitis) and against fires, which are common in Croatia’s forests during the country’s hot, dry summers. Make sure cigarette butts are completely extinguished, don’t light barbecues, and don’t leave behind any trash. In the event of a forest fire, earthquake, flash flood, or other natural disaster, monitor media reports and follow local authorities’ instructions.

Landmine Dangers in Croatia

Some travel destinations have figurative minefields. Croatia has literal ones, littered with unexploded bombs, leftover from conflicts that ended back in 1995. Sadly, in the era since peace was declared, these dangerous remnants have killed and maimed hundreds of people.

Demining efforts are underway in the affected areas—including Eastern Slavonia, Brodsko-Posavska County, Karlovac County, Zadar County, and out-of-the-way parts of Plitvice Lakes National Park—but won’t be finished anytime soon. Until then, travelers should take warning signs extremely seriously: They’re usually in Croatian, with a skull and crossbones set in a red triangle.

If you find yourself in these dangerous areas—which, fortunately, tend to be far from Croatia’s big tourist draws—stay on paved roads, keep an eye out for the aforementioned warning signs, and avoid open fields, ditches, and the shoulders of roads. If you’re in doubt, you can always ask locals for safety advice.

The post How Safe Is Croatia? Warnings and Dangers Travelers Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Are your days of flying domestically using only your driver’s license numbered? They could be if you don’t have a new type of license. As the deadline for the REAL ID Act looms, it’s vital for you to know if your current driver’s license doesn’t meet the new criteria.

If you’ve been procrastinating getting a REAL ID, it’s time to stop putting it off. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has just announced that all travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID by May 7, 2025, to board commercial airplanes.

Here’s a quick and easy primer with everything you need to know about the REAL ID Act, about when to use a REAL ID vs. a passport, and about the Department of Homeland Security’s hard deadline on the changes.

What Is the REAL ID Act?

The REAL ID Act “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses,” says the DHS. This Act applies to state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting IDs that do not meet the new standards.

This means that when the REAL ID ACT is in place, only driver’s licenses issued under REAL ID standards will be accepted at airports.

REAL ID Changes Timeline: When to Worry About Invalid IDs for Flying

In 2005, the REAL ID Act established nationwide requirements for state IDs as a post-9/11 security measure. States had well over a decade to make the changes, but the deadline to complete the transition has been extended multiple times. Some states struggled to make the switch to issuing the new, compliant licenses, having trouble finding the budget for the new licenses or lacking other logistical means to enact the changes.

May 7, 2025: According to the DHS website, by this date, “every air traveler will need a REAL ID-compliant license, or another acceptable form of identification, for domestic air travel,” as well as to enter federal government buildings. If by this date your state license is not a REAL ID compatible one, you will need to bring another form of ID to the airport, like a passport.

How Do I Get a REAL ID?

The process for getting your REAL ID is a little more difficult than the last time you renewed your license: You’ll probably have to visit a DMV and provide paperwork, like proof of residency and proof of lawful presence in the United States. You can, however, submit this paperwork (which you’ll still need to bring with you) online ahead of time for approval. Check your state’s DMV requirements online for more information.

If you’re a non-citizen or you think getting your ID might be more complicated for any other reason, check the Department of Homeland Security’s DHS REAL ID FAQ page for more information on your particular case.

REAL ID vs. Passports

If you’re unable to obtain a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you’ll need to bring a passport or another TSA-acceptable document with you to the airport in order to pass through security. The DHS reminded travelers often of the looming deadline, in part because if everyone rushes to get a REAL ID at once, there could be long wait times in many states.

Does a REAL ID Replace a Passport?

The short answer is no. You’ll need a REAL ID at minimum for domestic travel come May 2025, and your passport can work in place of a REAL ID for domestic travel—but a valid passport will still be required for international travel. So whether you have a REAL ID or not, a passport will always get you through airport security. And whether you have a REAL ID or not, a passport will always be required for international travel.

The post Everything Travelers Need to Know About the REAL ID Act appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Aardvark Book Club

The Aardvark Book Club is the perfect gift for the person who insists on packing a “real” book instead of a Kindle. This subscription ships a new hardcover book every month—as Aardvark’s website says, “Our books won’t die on a trans-Atlantic Flight.” 

Don’t worry about getting stuck with something you’ve already read—members get to pick their own book each month, with plenty of options to choose from in a wide variety of genres. 

Trade

Know someone who loves discovering cool new coffee shops on their travels? Give them the same experience at home with a subscription to Trade. Trade offers over 450 coffees from roasters around the country. Simply answer a few questions, and the coffee team will build a subscription based on your exact preferences (dark roast or light, ground beans or whole, etc.). 

We love that you can change the frequency that your subscription ships, so if you’re going to be out of town, you won’t return to a stockpile of coffee on your doorstep. 

Try the World

Foodies can sample their way around the world from their own kitchen with Try the World’s subscription box. Each box features an assortment of unique snacks from cuisines from around the world. Want to get excited for an upcoming trip or relive a past adventure? You can select which countries you’d prefer to see in your box. 

Simplicity Teas

Help the globetrotter in your life unwind after their last trip with a soothing cup of tea. Simplicity Teas boxes come in two sizes, Mini and Deluxe, with each featuring a selection of loose leaf teas, a reusable tea infuser, and brewing and tasting instructions. Each package, depending on the size, is good for roughly 20 to 40 cups of tea per month!

Spice Madam

Gift your favorite foodies the Spice Madam subscription box so that they can bring culinary travel home to their own kitchens. They’ll receive a curated box of global spices, recipes, a downloadable soundtrack to cook to, and fun facts every month.

Scentbird

For a taste of travel-sized luxury, you can’t go wrong with gifting a Scentbird subscription. Each month, Scentbird sends subscribers a generously-sized tester bottle of a perfume or cologne of their choice. Users can start with a quiz to narrow down their fragrance preference and see top suggestions, or browse the entire catalogue. Best of all, the tester bottles are TSA-compliant, so they can throw them in their carry-on.

TheraBox

Sometimes, the only thing the jet setter on your list needs is some time to unwind. Help them transform their time at home (however short) into a personal oasis with the TheraBox self-care subscription. Each box is packed with full-sized items, with an average value of $200+ per box. From aromatherapy to relaxing face masks, this box will help travelers recharge before their next big trip.

VINEBOX

Send the vino-lover on your list a package from VINEBOX. Available in one-, three-, and six-month subscriptions, each package includes six 100ml glass vials of wine sourced from small vineyards worldwide. Recipients can level up their wine knowledge with sommelier-led tasting videos and pairing recommendations.

That Road Trip Mom’s Escape and Explore Box

Designed “for RVing and road-tripping families,” the Escape and Explore Box from That Road Tripping Mom is a subscription that the entire family can enjoy. Each box contains items based on the monthly theme, such as “Getaway Game Night” and “Autumn Adventures.” Subscribers will receive anything from snacks to keep them energized as they hit the road to gear and accessories to make their outdoor adventures safer, cleaner, and more comfortable.

The Wordy Traveler

If you have a bookworm on your list, then consider this subscription box. Choose between options like The Backpacker, the Full Suitcase, and the Overflowing Suitcase, each featuring a different number of books and other small items such as coffees, teas, fine art prints, and more. Subscribers can choose to receive fiction books, non-fiction books, or a mix of both.

Little Passports World Edition

Give the gift of travel to any kid on your list. The Little Passports World Edition subscription box starts with the “Explorer Kit” and continues monthly, every 6 months, or every 12 months. Items include a wall-sized map, activity sheet, passport, souvenirs, and access to online games. It’s recommended for ages six to 10.

Explore Local Box

Travel the U.S. without leaving your house. The Explore Local Box provides the perfect inspiration to those who are always itching to go on their next trip. Subscription boxes are sent monthly and include locally made and sourced food and specialty items from that month’s city. The box also includes a fact sheet about the city and the products in the box.

The post 12 Best Subscription Boxes to Gift Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The following 10 suggestions for what not to do at airport security will make you a savvier flyer, capable of breezing through the checkpoint like a pro.

Don’t Bring More Than 3.4 Ounces (or 100 Milliliters) of Any Liquid

This may be obvious to frequent flyers, but even though the so-called 3-1-1 rule went into effect back in 2006, inexperienced travelers still show up with full-sized bottles of shampoo, water, and other liquids in their carry-on bags. Each time this happens, a TSA agent has to pull the bag off the security belt, call the passenger over, search the bag, scold the passenger, and throw the bottle out, thus slowing the security line down—and earning the offender annoyed head shakes from those stuck waiting.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, including medications, breast milk, and baby formula. If you’re flying to the United States via a connecting flight from overseas, you may carry full-size duty-free liquids as long as they’re sealed in a secure, tamper-evident bag by the original retailer, they were purchased within the past 24 hours, and you have the receipt.

For more information on what you can and can’t bring through airport security, check out this comprehensive Airport Security Q&A.

Don’t Leave Liquids and Gels Deep in Your Carry-On

One surefire method to slow a security line down is to waste time digging through your carry-on for items that need to be placed in the bin individually. Putting travel-sized liquids into a clear, see-through quart-sized bag is not enough. Keep the bag stored in a handy place—such as an external compartment on your carry-on—so all you have to do is reach in and grab it. Note that although electronics and liquids are increasingly allowed to remain inside carry-on luggage thanks to new technology, it may not be the case at every checkpoint.

Even TSA PreCheck members, who may be used to not having to take out their electronics and liquids, may be selected for a secondary screening and should be sure to keep these items easily accessible.

Don’t Forget to Have Your Boarding Pass and ID Handy

Similar to the above, you don’t want to be pulling out your wallet to grab your ID while you’re standing in front of the security agent. Do that while waiting in line or, better yet, before you even get in line. You’ll not only make things faster for yourself and those behind you, but you also won’t annoy the security agent.

Don’t Wait to Take off Your Belt, Watch, Jacket, and Shoes

If you haven’t caught on to the “be prepared” mantra yet, here it is again. The best way to move through security as fast as possible is to have everything you need out and ready to be placed on the conveyor belt as soon as you get there. If you’re wearing a belt or watch, take it off while you’re in line. Same thing with your jacket and even your shoes if possible, especially if they’ve got shoelaces—at the very least, have your laces untied so all you have to do is slip your shoes off. Caveat: Seniors over the age of 75, kids under 13, and those who have TSA PreCheck may leave their shoes and light jackets on.

Don’t Remove Items You Don’t Need to Remove

One of the most common airport security mistakes is to take out all your electronic devices to be scanned separately. You don’t need to do this. According to the TSA, only electronics larger than a cell phone must be removed from their carrying cases and X-rayed separately. This does include laptops and tablets, but it doesn’t include phones or electric toothbrushes. TSA PreCheck members don’t have to remove electronics for separate screening.

Also, in most cases you do not need to remove your jewelry before going through security. If you’re wearing numerous or particularly bulky items, you might want to take them off, but smaller pieces such as wedding rings and earrings can usually stay on. If you set off any alarms, the screening agent will work with you to determine the problem, which might or might not require jewelry removal.

Don’t Wear Sandals

Do you really want to expose your bare feet to whatever’s on a filthy airport floor? Yes, sandals are easy to slip on and off, but they’re not worth a potential case of athlete’s foot if you have to take your shoes off for screening.

Don’t Overlook Less Busy Checkpoints

Most large airports have multiple checkpoint entries for any given terminal, and some may be busier than others at certain times of day. The TSA offers travelers an app called MyTSA that you can use to check security wait times based on historical data. Just be sure you actually can reach your gate via the checkpoint you’ve selected.

Don’t Give the Security Folks a Hard Time

You may think your trial shampoo bottle is smaller than 3.4 ounces, or maybe the last time you went through security, no one cared that your mascara wasn’t in a clear bag. All that matters is what they’re telling you this time. While the particular TSA agent demanding you give up your “contraband” very well may be in the wrong, at that moment he or she has all the power, and arguing isn’t going to get you anywhere but possibly detained.

Don’t Joke About National Security or Bombs

Technically, cracking jokes about national security at an airport is not illegal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in trouble for doing it. There are numerous cases of passengers being arrested after joking about explosives or bombs while being examined at security. You may think your joke is funny or harmless, but remember, the TSA has no sense of humor when it comes to doing its job. Always err on the side of caution.

Don’t Forget About the PreCheck Program

The TSA’s PreCheck program is a risk-based prescreening system that allows frequent flyers to apply for access to a restricted—and faster—airport security lane. The application process is essentially an in-depth background check, but once cleared, PreCheck flyers no longer have to remove their belts, shoes, or lightweight jackets, nor must they place their 3-1-1 compliant plastic bag and laptop in separate bins.

PreCheck lanes are currently available at more than 200 airports across the United States. Do you often travel internationally? Consider Global Entry, which includes PreCheck membership as well as expedited re-entry into the United States. Read SmarterTravel’s summary of Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck to learn more.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Dori Saltzman contributed to this story.

The post 10 Things Not to Do at Airport Security appeared first on SmarterTravel.

As long as airlines have been checking baggage, they’ve been sending a few somewhere other than where they were supposed to go. Fortunately, airlines are doing better recently than they did 20 years ago, so your chances for a happy ending have improved for two reasons:

• They’re losing fewer bags. The government has been collecting statistics on mishandled bag reports for decades, and the number of mishandled bag reports per 100,000 passengers has dropped from a high of seven in the early 1990s to about three since 2009.
• They’re getting better at tracking the bags they do lose. With barcoded tags and even a few RFID-enabled tags, the airlines’ systems keep excellent track of bags. The last two times I’ve had a bag problem, an agent at the lost-baggage desk was able to tell me immediately where my bag was and the flight on which it would arrive.

Although airline performance has improved, what you do when an airline mishandles a bag remains about as it was in the 1990s. Below is guidance about what to do if your luggage is delayed, lost, or damaged, as well as tips for preventing these scenarios.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Delayed

If your bags don’t arrive on the carousel, try not to panic. Most so-called “lost” baggage really isn’t lost; rather, it’s delayed. And in most cases an airline can reunite you with your baggage within 24 hours.

When you realize that your bag isn’t going to show up on the carousel, go immediately to your airline’s lost-baggage counter, which you’ll find in most big-airport baggage areas. In smaller airports, ask any airline employee where to go. Even if you have someplace you need to be, report missing baggage before you leave the airport. (Some airline contracts specify that you must file no later than four hours after arrival; others say 24 hours.) When filing your claim, give the attendant a hotel or home address, as well as a phone number where you can be reached.

Hand over your baggage check (but write down the numbers) and fill out the form, making sure to get a copy of any relevant tracking numbers, websites, and phone numbers (some airlines have an online system while others will provide you with a phone number to call for updates). Note the name of the agent that handles your claim as well as the estimated time your bag will arrive.

If your bags are on the next flight, you could have them within a few hours. If they’ve been sent to the wrong airport, it could take a couple of days. If your baggage is delayed on a connecting itinerary involving more than one airline, you deal with the airline that flew you to your final destination, even if you think the first airline was responsible.

The airlines typically bring you your luggage when it is found; you will rarely need to return to the airport to pick it up. If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, alert the front desk about an incoming bag. Airlines usually deliver delayed bags at no cost to you, but some may ask you to pay.

Additionally, many airlines will reimburse any unexpected expenses caused by the loss or delay (keep your receipts!). No law requires any specific assistance, only that airlines must have a policy and make it available to you.

At a minimum, airlines typically cover overnight needs such as toothpaste and such; some lines stock and hand out regular overnight kits at the lost-baggage desk. If your bag is lost on a flight arriving at an airport other than your home, many airlines offer to cover all or part of the cost of items you may need to continue your vacation or business trip. Some airlines offer a set daily allowance; others offer to reimburse you for items you buy on the basis of receipts. And some airlines say almost nothing beyond “We’ll get your bag back.” Very little is set; prepare to negotiate.

Only one major U.S. airline, Alaska, provides any monetary compensation for delayed baggage: If the line doesn’t deliver your checked baggage within 20 minutes of arrival at the gate, it issues a voucher for $25 toward a future flight or 2,500 frequent-flyer miles. Other airlines do not issue refunds of baggage fees until your suitcase is declared lost.

The ReNew Transit Weekender

Anticipate the delay by packing all of your entertainment essentials in the versatile and stylish carry-on bag from Everlane.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Lost

If an airline doesn’t get your bag back to you within five days, the bag may be truly lost. An airline defines “lost” at anywhere from five to 30 days, at which point both you and the airline proceed on the assumption that you’ll never see your bag again.

If the airline loses your bags, make sure you get a written claim for damages. This may require a different form than the original “missing luggage” form. This can be done at the airport or online.

The maximum an airline pays on lost bags and their contents is generally limited to $3,500 per passenger on U.S. domestic flights, and a varying rate per passenger for checked baggage on international flights based on the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention. In the United States, if you paid a checked baggage fee for your lost bag, the airline must refund your fee. Check your carrier’s website for specifics.

You can purchase “excess valuation” protection from your airline if your checked baggage is worth more than these limits, but before doing so, make sure the items aren’t already covered by your homeowner’s or travel insurance policy. Some credit card companies and travel agencies also offer optional or automatic supplemental baggage coverage.

The airlines typically have a long list of items for which they will not be held responsible; these include jewelry, money, heirlooms, and other valuables. These items should always be left at home or packed in your carry-on bag.

Any lost baggage claim process is obviously a negotiation. Airlines will typically cover only the depreciated value of whatever you say you lost, not the original purchase price. They will ask for receipts, even for a suit you bought 10 years ago. You may go back and forth several times before reaching a deal. The airline may offer you a voucher for future travel in lieu of cash, which is generally a good deal only if the voucher value is double to triple a satisfactory cash value and, even then, only if the voucher conditions actually allow you to travel.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Damaged

Once you’ve gotten your bags off the carousel, immediately check them for damage or other signs of tampering or mishandling. Report any damage before leaving the airport; airline customer service agents will often want to inspect the bag.

Keep in mind that most airlines won’t cover minor damage such as bumps, scratches, dents, and scuffs, nor will they cover damage to straps, pulls, locks, or wheels that are the result of normal wear and tear. Airlines will generally cover broken fragile items packed in your luggage only if they are packed in a container designed for shipping. And they exclude damage or loss claims for a long list of high-value items such as jewelry, computers, and cameras that are both fragile and tempting targets for theft.

Airlines won’t take responsibility for damage that occurred during a TSA inspection. If you think your baggage was damaged during a TSA inspection (all inspected bags will have a written notification inside), call 866-289-9673 to report it. When that happens, expect a protracted “he said, she said” tussle between the TSA and the airline.

You will most likely need to produce a receipt for any repairs or be required to use airline-sanctioned luggage repair vendors. Ask the baggage claim attendant for specific information. You don’t want to find out that you have paid for a repair that isn’t covered.

Medium Suitcase from Away

Mitigate any risk of damaged luggage with the lightweight polycarbonate shell of an Away bag. What’s more, this luggage is cheap yet guaranteed to last a lifetime.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Stolen

Head directly to the baggage carousel when you get off your flight to minimize the potential time for your bag to be stolen. Many airlines scan bags when they’re loaded into the baggage claim area and keep records, especially at larger airports. If your bag goes missing after you’ve left the baggage claim area, your claim is no longer with the airline, but with the police. Your homeowner’s insurance may cover a stolen suitcase; if it doesn’t, consider purchasing travel insurance.

How to Appeal Your Lost Luggage Complaint

If you can’t reach a satisfactory resolution with your airline and you feel the need for further assistance, file a complaint with the Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division.

How to Prevent Lost Luggage

Of course, all of this information assumes the worst has already happened and damage control is needed. Nothing undermines a well-planned vacation quite like no-show luggage. So how can travelers safeguard their stuff? The obvious solutions are to book a nonstop flight or pack everything in a carry-on, but clearly this won’t work for everyone. Fortunately, there are other ways to ensure you can avoid these worst-case scenarios altogether.

1. Put your name and cell phone number on the outside and inside of your bags, and include a travel itinerary. Luggage tags can easily be torn off in the rough-and-tumble handling process, but a name and contact info—along with a copy of your itinerary—placed on top of your belongings inside your bag will almost certainly stay put.
2. Take a picture of your luggage. If your bag has gone AWOL and you’re attempting to get it back, photo evidence will help. Take a picture of the outside of your bag to show the airline staff member who is helping you locate it. Snap a picture of the inside of your bag as well; this will come in handy in case you need to file an insurance claim for your lost belongings. It’s also wise to take a quick photo of your baggage-claim ticket, in case you lose it.
3. Customize your luggage. Suitcases, unfortunately, sometimes suffer from a case of mistaken identity at the baggage carousel. This is especially likely to happen when half of your plane is traveling with the same black Samsonite. Give your bag a makeover with a colorful luggage strap or some neon duct tape. For more ideas, see 9 Ways to Make Your Luggage Stand Out.
4. Arrive at your departure airport early. Travelers who check in late—whether they arrived at the airport with only minutes to spare or got held up in a meandering check-in line—are more likely to get separated from their bags. Baggage handlers need time to process luggage and load it onto planes. Aim to arrive at the airport a couple of hours before your flight (or more for international flights or busy holiday periods).
5. Avoid tight connections, as these increase the likelihood that your bags will go missing. If your flight is late, the window of time for airport staff to transfer your bag from one plane to the next narrows. Some booking sites sell domestic multi-leg itineraries with layovers of less than an hour, which doesn’t leave any wiggle room in an industry in which flights are frequently delayed. International connections can take even more time if you have to reclaim your bags, go through security, and check them again. For this reason, it’s important to allow plenty of time—two or more hours, ideally—on international layovers, and at least 90 minutes for domestic connections.
6. Don’t put valuables or “can’t be without it” items in your checked baggage (medicine, important papers, jewelry, laptops). Pack all such items in your carry-on. See 10 Things Not to Do When Checking a Bag for more information.
7. Make a list of packed items and their estimated value before you leave. It sounds tedious, but when an airline asks what was in your bag, you don’t want to forget anything of value. If you make a packing list before you travel, hang on to it—this is an easy way to remember everything you put into your bags. Keep receipts for any expensive items you pack, as you may be required to send copies of them to the airline in the case of a lost bag. If you absolutely have to check some of those items, insure them separately: An airline won’t cover them even if you buy excess-value coverage.
8. Make sure the person who checks your baggage attaches the correct destination ticket to every bag, and get a claim ticket for each. Always remove old claim tags to prevent confusion about your destination. Better yet, opt for a smarter luggage tag like Dynotags, SuperSmartTag, or ReboundTAG.
9. Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag so you’ll have something to wear if your checked bag is lost or delayed. If you’re traveling with a partner, consider dividing each person’s clothes between your checked bags; this way if one of the bags is lost, you’ll each still have some of your belongings.

Travel insurance is the best guarantee that you’ll recoup any losses. See Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know for more information.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated with the latest information. Ed Perkins, Caroline Costello, and Margaret Leahy contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post How to Cope with Lost Luggage on Vacation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What to Wear While Flying: Always Wear These Things on the Plane

The following items provide plenty of comfort plus a touch of style, making them the best clothes for flying. Be the best dressed in the cabin with our guide to in-flight apparel.

Layers, Layers, Layers

Air travel is often an assemblage of disparate micro-climates, from the sweat-inducing sunny tarmac to the arctic air-conditioned cabin during flight. Fight that discomfort with plenty of layers like a washable travel scarf/wrap/blanket hybrid that’s a large enough to snuggle underneath when it’s particularly chilly.

Pashminas, shawls, wraps, cardigans, sweatshirts, vests, and light jackets are perfect. You can even fold or roll soft items, like cotton jackets, and use them as makeshift pillows during flight. Plus, the more layers you pile on your body, the less you need to pack in your luggage. Roll items and stuff them in your carry-on bag or personal item if you’re too warm.

Layers that help you regulate temperature while flying also come in very handy when traveling through various (actual) climates. And for travelers hitting the road during shoulder season, when the weather is particularly unpredictable, layers are key for optimal comfort.

Breathable Fabrics

Maintain in-flight comfort and cleanliness by wearing breathable fabrics—materials like cotton, silk, or linen. Fabrics that don’t allow air to circulate will hold in sweat, likely making you feel dirtier faster and probably necessitating a good spin in the washing machine upon landing. Natural fabrics are great, but moisture-wicking manmade fabrics are suitable options as well: Swiftland 7/8 Running Tights from REI Co-op are a nylon/spandex blend that’s incredibly quick-drying.

Merino wool is one of the best options for odor and moisture resistance; you can wear it straight off the plane without needing to wash it in between. Proof’s 72-Hour Merino Tee makes the perfect base layer, and can be worn for 72 hours without acquiring bad smells. For women, consider Unbound Merino’s Wool Long Sleeve T-Shirt, which is made from 100% merino wool that’s soft and cozy on cold planes while wicking any sweat away from the skin.

Support or Compression Legwear

Many doctors recommend that pregnant women wear support or compression stockings in flight. But compression legwear is also a good choice for those with pre-existing medical conditions, any travelers taking long-haul flights, and anyone who flies often. Compression socks or stockings, which promote blood circulation, help prevent swelling of the legs, and help guard against deep vein thrombosis (DVT), work by putting pressure on leg muscles and increasing blood flow. These don’t have to look like medical wear either—there are plenty of stylish compression sock options available.

Comfortable, Simple Shoes

It’s best to wear extremely comfortable, flat shoes on the plane—think of your poor feet after hours or even days of sitting, standing, and walking en route to your destination. You’ll also want to select shoes that are easy to slip on and off when passing through airport security. Cole Haan slip-ons offer sneaker-grade comfort in a stylish package, as do Toms (for men and women) and ECCO Footwear.

Clothes with Lots of Pockets

With all kinds of airline baggage fees adding on to the price of a ticket these days, clothes that do double duty as a wearable carry-on bag are de rigueur. The SCOTTeVEST cotton hoodie is available for men and women, and one of our picks for great accessories and clothes with hidden pockets. And there are myriad other travel jackets out there that feature an explosion of pockets, like Lightweight Down Puffer Jacket from Quince, made from certified responsible down and featuring interior pockets for valuables like wallets and passports.

Leggings with pockets can be an essential part of a plane outfit for stashing a phone or passport while still keeping it easily accessible. Arc’teryx’s Essent High-Rise Leggings have pockets big enough to hold even the biggest smartphone, and the style is sleek enough to wear under dresses, or as pants during a hike at your destination.

For men, Public Rec’s Dealmaker Pants can pass as business casual while hiding plenty of pockets. The pants also have a touch of spandex woven into the fabric to keep you comfortable on long-haul flights.

Loose-Fitting Clothing

As mentioned before, deep vein thrombosis is a danger on flights, where travelers stuck in cramped seats for long periods of time are at greater risk for developing blood clots. Leave your skinny jeans at home and opt for less restrictive garments like Duluth Trading’s NoGA Classic Slim Leg Pants, which have the flattering fit of leggings but aren’t skin-tight, falling loosely around the ankles for maximum comfort.

Something Stylish

Don’t throw fashion out the window. When it comes to dressing for a flight, a lot of advice focuses on function. But dressing with a bit of style—while keeping conscious of comfort of course—could help you get a free upgrade. An anonymous source once told Goop: “On a Virgin flight back to Heathrow, I spotted one of the staff’s monitors that read, ‘Look for well-dressed people to upgrade.’” This won’t happen every time, but if you are hoping to get upgraded, it helps to look smart. The Drapey Square Shirt from Everlane is flowy but still look good once you disembark. For men, their classic, logo-free tee is comfortable without being restrictive and will let you blend in anywhere.

The Perfect Plane Outfit for Women

Shoes

Look for a pair of breathable shoes that are easy to slip on and off. If you have TSA PreCheck, don’t worry about wearing socks. Wool Runners and the Wool Loungers from Allbirds are super comfortable and breathable so you can go sockless, and the neutral colors go with any outfit.

Scarf

A convertible shawl or scarf that can double as a blanket is a necessity for every female traveler. This bamboo shawl can be transformed into many things—a cardigan, shawl, infinity scarf, hood, plane blanket, and other customizable options. The fabric is breathable and sweat-wicking, so you won’t overheat on the plane with this layer.

Shirt

Bamboo is a great material for travel, as it is thin and comfortable but still holds up to sweat and heat, making it a perfect layering piece for any climate (or airplane temperature). These bamboo tops from Amazon are inexpensive and come in a wide variety of colors to match the rest of your vacation wardrobe.

Pants

A comfortable pair of pants completes a perfect plane outfit. The right pair allows you to step off the plane ready to go and looking professional. Find a pair with a touch of spandex for ultimate in-flight comfort. Betabrand’s Cosmo Lite Yoga Dress Pants come in a stretchy nylon-elastane blend that’s not too tight but still holds you in and gives you a smooth silhouette.

Personal Item

Don’t forget the perfect bag for all your carry-on essentials. Look for a slim backpack to free up your hands while traveling and optimize your legroom while flying. The Kanken by Fjallraven fits perfectly under the seat in front of you and has a laptop compartment, two side pockets for items you’ll need easy access to, plus as an inner sleeve and a front zippered pocket. It completes your perfect plane outfit.

Outer Layer

Depending on the time of year and your destination, you’ll want to travel with a versatile outer layer. Look for something in a neutral color and a lightweight fabric. This drapey open-front cardigan can transition from day to night, and goes with almost every outfit in a pinch.

The Perfect Plane Outfit for Men

Shoes

Look cool and comfortable with the Runner-up Mizzles from Allbirds. These shoes will keep you dry on your trek to and from the airport even in the worst of weather conditions, then keep you cozy in flight.

Blazer

The Gramercy Blazer from Bluffworks doesn’t wrinkle, so it’s ideal for going straight from plane to boardroom. It also has 10 built-in pockets to hold your wallet, passport, headphones, and more on travel days.

Shirt

A basic and comfortable T-shirt is perhaps the most important part of your perfect plane outfit. I love Huckberry’s incredibly soft 72-Hour Merino Tee. The odor-resistant wool fabric will keep you feeling fresh after a long travel day.

Pants

A comfortable pair of pants is a key component for a great travel outfit, and Bluffworks’ Airline Pants are designed specifically with in-flight style in mind. These pants combine the look of a dress pant with the feel of a jogger, creating a stylish silhouette with extra stretch for sitting for long hours on the plane.

Backpack

The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA laptop Backpack will make you a more organized traveler. The compartmentalized backpack is an ideal carry-on bag with separate pockets for travel essentials and your tech gear, making it easy to find your stuff quickly during your flight.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel

No matter where you’re flying, find your hotel for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels.

Book Now

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 18 Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Looking for a cheap cruise? Find the best deals at Avoya Travel.

What to Pack for a Cruise

What to Pack for a Cruise: At Sea

Once upon a time, almost all cruise ships were pretty dressy, including some events calling for full formal wear. Now only a few upmarket ships still require a bit of fussing, but most of the mass-market ships, like those in the Royal Caribbean and Princess stables, are about as casual as you like. In any event, as long as you’re not out on deck, you’ll be in a comfortably air-conditioned space virtually all the time.

The first job of your cruise packing list is to determine just where on the formal-casual scale you want or have to be in, or if you want to prepare for both ends of the scale. Luckily, business casual attire (pantsuits, maxi dresses, khaki pants, and button-up shirts tend to fair just fine these days). And for those cruise lines that do have more formal nights, there are typically still buffet options for meals if you want to avoid fancier dress.

Then, decide how you want to play your wardrobe. I pack the minimum I’ll need to comply with the lowest degree of dressiness required. On the other hand, other couples I know are fully engaged with dress: The wife doesn’t want to be seen in the same outfit at dinner on any two different days, and the husband even packs his tux for the “Captain’s Dinner” event. But that’s not how everyone travels. Ultimately, it’s your call what’s most comfortable for you to wear on vacation, and therefore to pack.

In any case, layers will be your best friend. Moving between the air conditioned interior of the ship and the potentially much balmier surroundings can feel like packing for two totally different climates. Light shawls, thin cardigans, and linen pants all walk the line between warm and cool, and can be dressed up or down to fit your wardrobe strategy.

Beyond the basic daily wear, pack whatever special recreational wear and accessories you’ll need. Even if you never leave the ship, you will probably want swimwear, and possibly some other specialized clothing and equipment as well.

Where to Buy Formal Wear for a Cruise

While many may want to take advantage of the rare opportunity to dress up, few people have a closet full of formal attire at their disposal. Clothing rental services are an affordable way to get glam on the high seas without overspending or cluttering up your closet with an outfit you’ll only wear once. Rent the Runway offers one time rentals for special occasions and monthly subscriptions (cancel anytime) in 5, 10, and 20 item bundles for those who want to round out their cruise wardrobe.

For those looking to make a more permanent purchase, Suitshop has a large selection of sturdy suits that will last a lifetime and Nordstrom offers dresses at varying levels of formality, from beachy maxi-dresses to true formal options.

What to Pack for a Cruise: In Port

The situation here is obvious: You need to pack for the climate in your cruise destination—and, for most people, being active in each port. You’ll be walking around during shore excursions, and many call for specialized equipment. That means you need to pack comfortable walking shoes and clothing on your cruise, even if you won’t need them on the ship itself. Make sure you pack appropriately for any off-shore excursions.

As to how heavy/light to travel, the Caribbean is hot and steamy pretty much all the time, and the Mediterranean in summer can come close. But weather in other popular areas such as Alaska, New England, and inland European rivers is a bit more variable. Your best bet is to check the weather forecasts just before you pack for your cruise, and always be prepared for rain. For Europe and Bermuda, you should aim for more resort-casual clothing (fair warning: Golf courses in Bermuda have strict dress codes). Some other cruise itineraries that are more casual than the norm include Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, the Caribbean, and French Polynesia.

What to Pack for a Cruise: Everything Else

Beyond the perfect wardrobe, there are a few key items that will ensure your cruise vacation is nothing but smooth sailing. Add these items to your cruise packing checklist before you embark:

Day Trip Gear

When putting together a packing list for a cruise, think about what you’ll need for your planned activities. A daypack is a necessity for a spending a full day off the boat. Stock it with a reusable water bottle (collapsible for the ultimate space-saver), sun hats, sunblock, insect repellent, and anything else you’ll need to get through the day. Make sure to download the port city’s map so you can access it offline in the event you lose access to WiFi. Drop a pin in your ship’s docking location and set an alarm well ahead of your departure time to signal its time to head back to the ship.

Toiletries

Travelers sometimes forget that they don’t need to pack a full closet full of personal-care products and accessories in their travel toiletry kit. You can buy toothpaste, batteries, and tissues in most places around the world—and also on the cruise ship, albeit at stiff prices. Ships vary in what toiletries they offer onboard.

However there are a few things you don’t want to leave off your cruise checklist, like prescription medications, glasses or contact lenses, and any specialized skincare or hair products that you can’t live without. It’s also a good idea to have a few OTC medications handy from the start in case of seasickness or minor aches and pains from a long flight.

Unlike air travel, cruise ships don’t place an upper size limit on your liquid personal items, so unless you’re flying to your port of departure, your containers can exceed 3.4oz. 

Technology

The latest packing challenge is with gadgets. I, for one, would have withdrawal symptoms if I couldn’t get online every day, so I would select a cruise ship with the latest internet connectivity and pack my laptop. On the other hand, if you want to get away from it all, a cruise ship is the ideal place—and you don’t have to pack any devices, converters, and such. Don’t forget your camera, and a travel extension cord can also come in handy.

As mentioned above, any critical devices you can’t live without should come along in your suitcase, be it a laptop, tablet, or just your smartphone. In addition to any necessary chargers, make sure you have an international adapter that works with any port city on the itinerary.

In-Flight Essentials

When packing for your pre- and post-cruise flights, figure out what goes in your carry-on and what gets checked. If you’re big on collecting souvenirs and buying local handicrafts, leave room in your suitcase for what you bring home. You don’t want to get hit with paying for another checked bag or hauling both your regular carry-on and a shopping bag of loot on your flight home.

Cruises are all about relaxing, soaking up the sun on the ship’s deck and catching up on a good book or finally catching up on that podcast. Make sure you don’t use up the leisure activities you packed for the cruise while bored in the terminal or during the flight. Download multiple books on your e-reader or library app, some for the flight and some for the trip. If you prefer paperback, pick up an in-flight read at one of the terminal kiosks or see if your airport has a library loan program.

Important Documents

Make sure you have your passport, ID, credit cards, and any cash (USD and local currency) you plan to spend. Bring along photocopies of important documents and your cruise itinerary. Make sure to leave any vital documents you don’t need for an excursion locked up safely in your cabin.

Can I Do Laundry on a Cruise?

Do you need to pack for the full cruise, or can you have your clothes washed or dry cleaned during your sailing? Although most big ships provide some kind of service, the specific answer to that question varies wildly among different ships: Some charge for laundry the way hotels do, some set a fixed price for a laundry bag full, some sell laundry packages prior to sailing, and a few offer self-service washers and dryers.

But no matter how you do it, you’ll definitely pay more for doing laundry while cruising than you pay at home. In general, large ships offer more options than small ones, and 200-passenger river cruises may provide only limited services. Again, check what your cruise ship offers before you decide how much you need to pack. If you’re unsure what your cruise line offers or don’t want to pay the fee, pack some travel laundry detergent packets and a travel clothes line to wash light items like undergarments and t-shirts in your cabin sink. 

What Not to Pack for a Cruise

Like any form of travel, there are a few prohibited items. These include obvious candidates like firearms, fireworks, knives, and any illegal substances. But there are a few surprising items on the list as well. On Carnival Cruises, passengers are not allowed to bring along curtains or large radios and travel clothing steamers are banned from coming aboard any Royal Caribbean ship. Other common prohibited items include scissors, alcoholic beverages, meat, and fish. Make sure to check your specific cruise line’s list of restricted items.

It’s worth noting that cruise ships are governed under federal law, so all marijuana products, including medical marijuana, are generally prohibited onboard regardless of port of departure. Alcohol policies vary by ship (so do your research with your cruise line directly).

Cruise Packing Tips

Packing for any trip can be tricky, but packing for a vacation that is essentially three trips in one is a monumental task for even the most efficient traveler. Maximize your organization and luggage space with these cruise packing tips.

Bring Spare Clothes in Your Carry-On

Having a change of clothes and a few day-to-day necessities in your carry-on can also be a lifesaver in the case of lost or delayed luggage. If you find yourself with no idea where your bags are or waiting to have them shipped to your next port of call, you’ll be glad to have a few extra items on hand to hold you over. It’s also great for that stretch of time between boarding the ship and your luggage showing up in your cabin.

Get a Personal Item That Does Double Duty

Save packing space by bringing along a personal item for the flight that can double as a daypack for excursions. This Lite Daypack from Bellroy is minimalistic and functional while this option from Got Bag is even more compact and comes in four neutral colors.  A foldable wet bag is a great additional to any daypack—it can be used to organize small items on your pre-departure flight and to store your wet swimsuit on the way back to the ship after a day in port.

Take Advantage of Packing Cubes

Keep yourself extra organized by packing for your “sub-trips” in packing cubes. Designate one for your formal wear, one for your onboard resort wear, and one for anything you plan to wear in port. This keeps your wardrobe organized without having to unpack everything or dig through a upturned suitcase looking for that one shirt you just know you packed.

My most essential recommendation for what to bring on a cruise: Don’t get obsessive about it. Do your best and plan to cope with whatever problems you encounter along the way.

Where to Book a Cruise

When booking a cruise you have two options—booking directly with the cruise line on their site or hunting down the best deals through an online travel agency. Check out our round-up of the best site to book a cruise to find the best deals and easiest processes.

Download Our Cruise Packing List Before You Set Sail

Click on the below image to edit and download the SmarterTravel cruise packing list:

Book a Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

Need a place to stay the night before you set sail? Search SmarterTravel Hotels for great accommodations in your port of call.

Book Now

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016 by SmarterTravel’s Ed Perkins. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post The Ultimate Cruise Packing List: What to Pack for a Cruise appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

• Why Travel Alone?
• How to Travel Alone Safely
• How to Travel Alone as a Woman
• Avoiding the Single Supplement
• Tips for Solo Dining
• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel
• The Best Solo Travel Websites

Why Travel Alone?

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once.

How to Travel Alone Safely

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification—in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt, use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places, especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

How to Travel Alone as a Woman

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

Avoiding the Single Supplement

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel.

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, Exodus Travels, REI Adventures, Adventure Women, and Road Scholar, offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard, and P&O Cruises.

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com.

Tips for Solo Dining

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One.) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL, which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Still, if you’re planning a trip here, you might wonder: Is Cabo San Lucas safe? That’s a valid thing to ask, especially considering that in recent years, the city has experienced the highest crime rate in Baja California Sur.

The U.S. government recommends “increased caution” when traveling to the state of Baja California Sur, where Cabo San Lucas is located. It should be noted, however, that most forms of violence in Baja California—homicides, kidnappings, extortions, and so on—are related to the drug war, so travelers have mostly been spared.

While that’s reassuring to know, it’ll behoove you, before landing in Cabo, Mexico, to be informed about what not to do in Cabo, whether you can drink the water in Cabo San Lucas, what you need to know about swimming in Cabo, plus key information about wildlife like snakes and scorpions in Cabo San Lucas.

Tips for Safety in Cabo San Lucas

• When making your way around Cabo San Lucas, limit your explorations to daytime hours, beware of pickpockets and other thieves, don’t hail taxis off the street, and—as with any destination—if you get into an Uber, share your ride’s progress with a friend or loved one.
• Drinking water in Cabo San Lucas should be restricted only to bottled water and glasses of water poured at reputable hotels, resorts, and restaurants where your server has reassured you that what they’re serving is agua purificada—purified water. And skip the ice.
• In Cabo San Lucas, swimming in the ocean can be a risky proposition. The riptides are fierce, the jellyfish are plenty, and the lifeguards are all but nonexistent. Stick to swimming only at your hotel’s swimming pool, or at a beach that’s known to be safe, most of which are on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula. Never enter a closed beach, and heed all posted signs and flags.
• Some of Cabo’s wildlife species are forces to be reckoned with. Snakes and scorpions in Cabo San Lucas can cause serious injuries and medical emergencies—especially rattlesnakes, yellow-bellied sea snakes, and the bark scorpion. Know how to identify and avoid these species, but if you get bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Worried about bug bites in Cabo San Lucas? The key ones to avoid include the Baja brown recluse and mosquitoes, so wear DEET and pack antihistamines
• Topping the list of what should you not do in Cabo San Lucas: drugs. Not only do they incapacitate you, making you more likely to be targeted as a victim, but if you’re caught using drugs in Cabo San Lucas, the punishment will be severe—Americans charged with drug possession can be kept in a Mexican prison for months before their cases finally go to court..

How to Get Around Safely in Cabo San Lucas

Yes, there are larger security issues going on throughout Baja California, as well as in adjacent parts of Mexico. But in Cabo San Lucas, crimes that affect tourists are mostly relegated to pickpocketing and other petty forms of theft—so hide your valuables, lock your doors, and use common sense when it comes to exploring anywhere off the beaten path or going out after dark. If you get mugged or forced to access an ATM, don’t resist—your physical safety is always more important than your money.

In terms of what to avoid in Cabo San Lucas, the U.S. Department of State recommends that travelers not hail taxis directly off the street anywhere in Mexico. Instead, use hotel transportation services or taxis that have been officially dispatched; unlicensed cab drivers have been known to scam travelers. Taxis are not metered in Cabo San Lucas, so always negotiate the price before getting in, and don’t pay until you arrive at your destination. Taking public transportation in Cabo San Lucas is not recommended either, since buses have been hijacked and theft is commonplace.

Uber runs in Cabo as well, though tensions between taxi and Uber drivers have sparked protests at times. If you decide to use a ridesharing app in Cabo San Lucas, take all the usual precautions: Share the progress of your ride with a friend or family member so that someone always knows where you are. When waiting for your ride, choose a busy, well-lit area. And when your driver arrives, confirm that his or her face and license plate match what comes up on your phone. Then sit in the back seat—never the front.

The American government also recommends that travelers in Mexico “avoid driving alone or at night” and to use toll roads when possible. If you must drive, keep your gas tank as full as possible, carry a spare tire, and charge your phone.

Natural Disasters in Cabo San Lucas

How dangerous is Cabo San Lucas in terms of natural disasters? The region is prone to hurricanes from roughly July through September; if one should hit while you’re there, take cover and follow authorities’ instructions. Baja California Sur is also subject to earthquakes and volcano eruptions, so read up on what to do in case either of those happens while you’re visiting, follow official advice, and pay attention to any and all warnings.

Drinking Water in Cabo San Lucas

Can you drink the tap water in Cabo San Lucas? The short answer: It’s not recommended. The pipes here can contaminate the Cabo San Lucas water, which often causes digestive issues for anyone not used to drinking water in Cabo right out of the faucet.

Instead, stick to bottled water, or ask your restaurant server for purified water—agua purificada—with no ice. (Speaking of drinking in Los Cabos—or anywhere you may travel—never leave your beverage or meal unattended, since spikings are not unheard of.)

Other hygienic factors to keep in mind while traveling in Los Cabos: be judicious with the street food you buy and avoid raw vegetables—similarly to the tap water, these items may be prepared in a way that your digestive system is unused to.

Swimming in Cabo San Lucas

The expansive sea, of course, is the main draw in this part (and many other parts) of Mexico. But is swimming in Cabo San Lucas safe? Not always. There’s much to know before submerging yourself in the Cabo ocean. The fiercest danger is riptides, which make many Cabo beaches unswimmable. Along with rogue waves, they regularly drown strong swimmers, tragically sweeping them out to sea. They can even knock over adults who are standing in water that’s only ankle-deep.

If you do find yourself getting pulled out by a riptide, try to stay calm and swim parallel to the beach into the breaking waves. Should you need saving, try to float, raise one arm up in the air, wave, and call for help.

Most beaches in Cabo San Lucas don’t have lifeguards, unfortunately, but officials often put out colored flags to let beach-goers know where and when swimming in the Cabo San Lucas ocean is safe—and where and when it’s not. It’s critical to obey all posted signs, never enter a closed beach, and know that this isn’t the place to rent or play around in water vehicles, since many aren’t maintained to standard. Instead, swim at your resort’s swimming pool or at a beach that’s well-known to be safe, including several on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula.

One other danger to be alert for if you’re planning on swimming in Cabo San Lucas: jellyfish. You can wear a Lycra skin for protection, or just consider this just one more reason why you shouldn’t swim in Cabo seas.

Snakes, Scorpions, and Insects: Wildlife Dangers in Cabo San Lucas

Besides jellyfish, there are other animals to be wary of in Baja California. There are 35 species of snakes in Cabo San Lucas, about half of which are venomous. Most people never encounter one, but it’s still good to know what the poisonous snakes in Cabo San Lucas look like: The yellow-bellied sea snake looks like a floating stick in the water, while the area’s 18 species of rattlesnake are identifiable by their signature noisemakers.

Cabo’s snakes tend to hide in rock piles, brush, or trash piles, so avoid those. It helps to wear closed-toe shoes, stay on the beaten path, and carry a travel first-aid kit. If you get bitten, keep the wound below your heart and don’t cut open the wound or try to suck the venom out. Most importantly, get to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible.

Bugs in Cabo San Lucas are also worth knowing about. The Baja brown recluse spider, in particular, can cause extremely damaging bites. Identify it by its tan to brown color; long, fuzzy legs; and the “violin” pattern on its back.

Cabo has plenty of mosquitoes, too, so wear DEET repellent and pack antihistamines. There haven’t been many cases of Zika in Mexico recently, but the CDC reminds travelers that a risk of the mosquito-borne illness may still remain.

Mexico has upwards of 200 scorpion species, though only eight of those are dangerous to humans. The scorpions in Baja, Mexico, that travelers need to know about include the venomous bark scorpion, which is yellow and about three inches long. You definitely don’t want it to sting you, especially if you’re older or a child. If you do get stung, apply ice and seek medical help immediately.

Scorpions are more active in summer and at night. To keep your life free of them, tap and shake out your shoes before putting them on, shut your bags tightly so they can’t crawl in, and leave them alone if you see them. You can also carry a scorpion toxin antidote, available at some Mexican pharmacies.

—original reporting by Avital Andrews

The post Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? Swimming Dangers, Drinking Water, and More appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Embarrassing Travel Gadgets That Work

Though they might cost you a bit of dignity, the following items are geared to make life a little easier for travelers.

Sunany Female Urination Device

This is a female urination device (let’s be honest—it’s a funnel) that allows women to pee standing up. Why on Earth would you waste time looking for the nearest bathroom when you can cower behind a bush while using a hot-pink silicone funnel to pee?

Tush Wipe

Unlike its sister moist-towelette products like Wet Ones, Tush Wipes didn’t get the memo about delicate subtlety. If your conspicuously labeled packet of butt cleaner falls out of your purse, best deny ownership.

Claspies

You’ve fallen into the airplane toilet again. Blame traditional underwear. Fortunately for you, there are Claspies, underwear with clasps on its sides that allow you to quickly escape from your skivvies without picking up your feet and tumbling into the bowl. According to the product website, “While traveling, there is nothing better than putting on a fresh pair of panties in the middle of a long journey! Thank you, Claspies.” There is also nothing better than not falling into the toilet. Thanks again! Buy a pair for $14.95 from Claspies.

Ostrich Pillow

For a stylish in-flight nap experience, choose the Ostrich Pillow. This pod-like pillow allows tired travelers to sleep in a variety of positions with a convenient nose and mouth window for easy breathing (or snoring). With two additional openings on the sides for your hands and arms, you can cozy up in your own cocoon until you reach your destination.

Jetsetgo Airplane Seat Cover 

Create a barrier between you and the petri dish that is an airplane seat with Jetsetgo Airplane Seat Covers. The kit comes with a seat cover, armrest covers, a tray table cover, and four sanitary wipes to keep you from picking up inflight germs.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 5 Embarrassing Travel Gadgets That Actually Work appeared first on SmarterTravel.