Know the risks 

The more you know about where you’re going, the safer and happier your travels will be. Before you leave, be sure to complete a risk assessment of any country you’re thinking of visiting. It  will help you to choose a destination where you’ll feel safe and in your comfort zone. If you doubt you can put up with the challenges and hazards of a particular country, strike it off your list. A risk assessment should address your concerns as a female traveller, including safety and security, health conditions, the political and economic environment, local laws, customs, and cultural norms — including the role of women — in your potential host country. For example, some countries employ strict interpretations of Sharia, or Islamic law, which may have an impact on the rights and obligations of women. The fact that activities such as wearing a bikini or having premarital sex are legal in Canada doesn’t mean they’ll be so in a foreign country. Based on your research, develop a risk-management strategy outlining hazards you should be aware of and precautions you can take

• Start by checking to see if there’s a Travel Advisory in effect for your proposed destination and obtain information on safety and security, local laws and customs, health conditions, and entry requirements .
• For country-specific information on health conditions, check Travel Health Notices.
• Supplement these resources with travel books, newsletters, magazines, and websites just for women travellers. They offer a comprehensive view of the health, safety, cultural, and emotional issues experienced by women on the road.

Plan ahead 

Careful preparation is your key to safe and successful 4 travel. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid hassles later. Before leaving Canada:

Go lightly Always travel light, if possible, to protect yourself against loss or theft of money and valuables. You’ll be much less vulnerable and more independent if you’re not weighed down with a lot of luggage.

• The ideal handbag or day pack is easy to carry and has zippered inner compartments for added security, a padlock on every pocket, and a sturdy shoulder strap or harnesses. The best way to carry your bag is in front of you, close to your body, where it’s out of reach of wandering hands. Carry only items that are lightweight and that you can afford to lose.

• Try to have at least one hand free at all times. It may help to wear cargo pants or a vest with multiple pockets to store travel documents and gear. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for bag-snatchers and pickpockets.

• Avoid displaying expensivelooking cameras, jewellery, and other showy accessories that may mark you as a wealthy tourist.

• Beware of credit card fraud. Never let anyone take your credit card out of your sight.

• Conceal in a money belt or neck pouch any necessities that can’t be easily replaced and that are crucial to your travel arrangements: your passport, airline and train tickets, credit and debit cards, traveller’s cheques, cash, a copy of your insurance policy, medical prescriptions, and contact information for your doctor.

• Keep copies of all important travel documents in your suitcase, in case the originals are stolen or lost.

• Use a small wheeled suitcase or backpack for long trips, a small day pack or tote bag for shorter excursions. Keep your luggage locked at all times. Carry two sets of keys.

• Use luggage tags that hide your contact information from the inquiring eyes of thieves and con artists.

• Always pack your own luggage and never let it out of your sight while travelling. Watch out for individuals who may try to plant items in your pockets or in your luggage. Never carry anything,
even an envelope, across a border or through customs for anyone else.