10 Tips On How To Stay Safe While Travelling in Asia
Asia is an incredible place to explore, with so much to see, do, and experience. However, while Asia is an exciting and beautiful continent to explore, safety should always be a priority. Whether you're navigating busy streets in Vietnam, hiking the mountains of Nepal, or soaking in the culture in Thailand, staying safe should be part of your travel planning. Here are some practical tips to help you stay secure and make the most of your travels!
1. Use Trusted Transport Apps Like Grab and Bolt
Getting around in Asia is usually pretty easy, but using ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt (basically like Uber) adds an extra layer of security. These apps allow you to book rides in advance and track your journey in real-time. You can even share your ride details with a friend or family member for peace of mind.
These apps also have built-in safety features like emergency support. This is a massive relief as we discovered one morning in Vietnam, we were in a Grab car at 5 a.m. when the driver took a wrong turn and wanted to drop us off in a different location. The app noticed and immediately asked us if we needed assistance. It turned out to be a misunderstanding, but it was reassuring to know the Grab app was keeping an eye on our safety.
2. Invest in AirTags for Your Luggage
Losing your luggage can be a nightmare, especially when you’re far from home. One of the best ways to keep track of your bags while travelling in Asia is by using Apple’s AirTags in your checked luggage. These tiny devices allow you to track your bags on your phone, so if your luggage goes missing or gets misplaced, you can easily locate it. It’s a simple but effective way to avoid unnecessary stress, especially when moving between flights or transport.
3. Use eSIMs to Stay Connected
In today’s world, staying connected is essential — especially when you’re navigating new countries. One of the easiest and best ways to stay safe while travelling in Asia is staying connected with eSIMs.
We highly recommend using iRoamly for your eSIM needs. With iRoamly, you get great coverage and fast internet across many Asian countries, all while avoiding the hassle of physical SIM cards. Whether you need directions, are booking a ride, or just want to check in with family or friends, having internet on the go makes everything easier. Plus, with iRoamly’s flexible eSIM plans you can explore a variety of plans that fit every need and budget, so you won’t have to worry about overpaying with other companies or getting scammed at the airport.
If you’re not familiar with eSIMs, don’t worry! You can learn more about them in our blog post titled “Is An eSIM Better Than A Physical SIM Card When Travelling?”, where we break down everything you need to know, PLUS, we will also be giving you 5% OFF your next iRoamly eSIM.
4. Secure Your Belongings
When you're out and about, always keep your valuables close. We use bum bags to carry essentials like passports, phones, and wallets. It’s important to keep an eye on your stuff in crowded places, as pickpocketing is more common in touristy spots.
Most hotels have safe deposit boxes, but we still like to lock up anything valuable inside our backpacks with our trusted padlocks when we're out.
5. Ask About Local Safety
Before you head out for the day, it's always smart to ask your hotel about the safety of the area, especially if you're exploring a new neighbourhood. Many places in Asia are totally safe, but there are also areas that can be sketchy, particularly after dark. Hotel staff are usually very helpful and can give you tips on where to go and where to avoid.
6. Motorbike Safety is a Must
In countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, motorbikes are a popular way to get around, but they can be risky, especially if you're not familiar with the local traffic rules. It’s important to remember that the roads can be chaotic, and accidents are common. When renting a motorbike, always wear a helmet, keep your phone tucked away while riding, and stay alert to the traffic around you. In some places, riders don’t use brake lights or might drive on the wrong side of the road, so be cautious and make sure you’re comfortable before renting a bike.
7. Save Important Numbers
It’s always a good idea to keep emergency contacts handy, including your country’s embassy or consulate, in case you need them during your trip. It’s also helpful to know the emergency numbers for police and ambulances of the country you plan to visit.
We’ve put together a simple guide, which you can download completely FREE with Global Emergency Contacts To Keep Handy.
8. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
No matter where you are in Asia, it’s crucial to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right — whether it’s a situation, a ride, or a place — don’t hesitate to leave.
Also, it’s a good idea to avoid being out too late in unfamiliar areas. We try to avoid walking around late at night in places we’re not familiar with and always make sure we have reliable transport back to our accommodation. A top tip is that in smaller cities, apps like Grab don’t run 24/7, which means if you arrive on an early bus at 4a.m., you will likely be approached by taxi drivers who will massively overcharge you, so plan your trip accordingly and check with your next accommodation about picking you up or working hours for ride-hailing apps.
9. Always Count Your Money
When you’re travelling in Asia, always make it a habit to count your money — whether it’s change after a purchase or cash from a currency exchange. In some countries, tourists unfamiliar with the local currency can be easy targets for short-changing. We’ve had it happen to us several times, and luckily, by paying attention, we avoided losing money.
For instance, some friends we met in Vietnam exchanged money at a local exchange. The man counted the cash in front of them, then asked for it back to recount. Trusting him, they didn’t double-check again. Later, at their hotel, they realised half the money was missing—likely swiped during the “recount.”
The lesson? Always count, recount, and count again. Don’t hesitate to take your time, and never hand back cash without recounting it yourself. Being thorough takes less time than you think, especially when it can save you from unnecessary losses.
10. Follow Local Laws & Customs
Each country in Asia has its own unique set of laws and customs. Make sure to do a little research before you go so that you can respect the local culture and avoid any problems. Some places may have specific rules around dress codes, alcohol consumption, or behaviour, so it’s always a good idea to check before you go. We always check the GOV.UK travel advice website, but depending on where you are based, you may prefer to check a different source. We will be creating guides around this topic for countries we have visited, so if you would like to know more, make sure to join our newsletter below!
Join our FREE weekly digital newsletter created for all the travel and adventure lovers wanting to explore the world. It’s packed with travel news, fun quizzes, tips, behind-the-scenes stories, member discounts, subscriber's stories and more.
Have the Best Time in this Incredible Continent!
Travelling in Asia is an awesome experience, but it’s important to stay smart and safe. By using eSIMs like iRoamly for connectivity, booking rides with trusted apps like Grab, and always counting your money you can travel with confidence. Don’t forget to stay alert, trust your instincts, and take the necessary precautions when exploring unfamiliar places. With these tips, you'll have the adventure of a lifetime without the worry!
Safe Travels from Carma Adventures 🌏💥
Enjoyed This Blog? Don’t Forget To Like, Share And Leave A Comment!
Looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush in Nepal? Discover The Cliff in Kushma, home to the highest bungee jump in Nepal! This blog has all the info you need, from booking via Whatsapp to weight limits and what to expect on jump day. If you're looking to conquer your fears whilst experiencing an unforgettable adventure, this is the spot to be!