Feeling lost while having your first online casino experience is nothing compared to the fearful and overwhelming feeling you’ll suddenly get when you realize that you’re lost while traveling.
Though we may have cellphones and other mobile devices with us to prevent such instances, there are those odd occasions where you may not have such items on you if you perhaps left them behind unaware or they may get stolen or lost along the way. In those cases, tips on what to do can come in handy. So, we’ve put together the perfect guide on what to do if you find yourself lost while traveling.
Step 1: Prepare Yourself Before You Go
Before going anywhere while traveling, it’s always good to do some pre-trip packing and planning so you can avoid instances of you getting lost. While your mobile device may be perfect for walking you out of a lost situation, getting it lost, having poor reception, or having a low battery can get you into trouble when your primary source of help is no longer available. Therefore, to stay ahead of the game, pack essential items like a local map, universal power adapter, powerbank, and phrasebook. Also, have enough local currency cash on you so you can use the bus or taxi to go back to your accommodation.
Part of preparing yourself before you go involves learning the basic local lingo. A few keywords and phrases in your travel destination’s local language can be all you need to get an important message across so you can receive help. It’s also helpful to know how and where you can contact the nearest embassy or consulate so nearby police stations can be aware of your location.
It’s good practice to always have the hotel’s business card with you. Be sure to double-check all the details on the card to ensure that they are correct so that if you can’t speak the local language, a local business or kind stranger can help direct you to the exact location that you need to be at. At this point, it’s also advisable to have copies of your passport, VISAs, and other relevant information with you.
The last part of this step is to always wear the right gear and carry an emergency kit. This is especially important if your trip involves you needing to take a road trip or trek through unpopulated areas that are somewhere remote and have extreme weather conditions. These could easily leave you in life-threatening situations that may require you to have an emergency travel kit on hand.
Step 2: Don’t Panic
Now we’re at the part where you do get lost and the first thing you need to do is stay calm. If your phone happens to be on you and ready for use, check your location app to identify your bearings. But if that doesn’t seem to work, then you have other options to try.
Make a mental map of where you are using surrounding landmarks and take note of any significant bits that could be of help to you later. Be sure to memorize street names and stores around you. As you do this, be careful to not find yourself wandering off for long periods of time in case you’re circling the same spot.
Look for a safe spot to stop and get the help you need. If you’re in an urban area, then it’s likely that you’ll be close to public transport stops that can help you find your way back. Otherwise, you can also ask someone for assistance if you can’t seem to locate a police station somewhere nearby.
Step 3: Stay Discreet
Though you may find many people with good intentions that will be very friendly to you in your time of need, you must always remain safe and discreet at all times. Practice caution and don’t look lost when you feel as though you’re in a sketchy place. Keep all your expensive belongings like phones, watches, and jewelry away in a safe place on your body so you don’t become a target to criminals that can sense your vulnerability.
