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Wearing expensive, flashy jewelry is one sure way to make yourself an obvious target for robbery. Leave it at home, friends, especially if you plan to travel to crowded areas!

This has to be one of the most important safety tips for travelers.

Lots of people enjoy exploring the local nightlife while traveling, and there's nothing wrong with that. But keep in mind that it's even more important than ever to drink responsibly when you're traveling.

When you're away from home you’re more likely to get lost or end up in a dangerous neighborhood, and being obviously drunk makes you an easy target for scams, robbery, or worse. 

Oh, and ladies, never forget the golden rule of safe drinking in public: keep an eye on your drink at all times!

Any solid resource of travel safety information will tell you that it's never a good idea to carry huge amounts of cash. Instead, open an account with an international bank or credit card company so you can use local ATMs. If you absolutely must withdraw large amounts of cash at once, leave the bulk of it locked up safely in your hotel or hostel and carry only what you'll need for the day.

When using ATMs, try to use only those that are attached to banks as these are less likely to have been tampered with by scammers.

Never keep all of your money in one place. Keep cash and credit cards in two or three different places so that if one of your stashes is stolen you aren't left completely empty-handed.

Research the place you're visiting to see what the local scammers are up to. Scams range from RFID scanners to ploys using children to play on your sympathy. You'll be less likely to fall for these scams if you've heard about them ahead of time.

Be sure to look up the emergency services number for your destination, even before you get there. It's also a good idea to look up the number for your country's nearest embassy before you leave. Write them down or save them in your phone so you'll have quick access to them in the event of an emergency.

Cross-body bags are safer than shoulder or handbags and can prevent people from grabbing your bag as they run or drive by. There are tons of bags made specifically for travelers with features such as slash-proof straps, RFID blockers, and locking zippers. Invest in a good bag that suits your needs and preferences.

You can save a few bucks by coming prepared with your own lock if you plan to stay in a hostel. Even if you're not staying in a hostel, having a travel lock that can secure your bag to your seat or chair while dining or in transit will help keep your valuables safe from theft.

When traveling, your passport may be the most valuable thing you carry. In the event of a stolen passport, having a digital copy will help make the process of getting a replacement easier.

Tourists tend to carry larger amounts of cash and valuables and are more vulnerable to scams. Try to avoid being an obvious tourist. 

Dress as the locals do, don't stop abruptly in the middle of busy streets to take photos, and even when you're lost try not to make it apparent. If you need to ask for directions or consult a map, step inside a shop or cafe to do so.

Research which taxi companies are reputable before you arrive in a place and use only those. If you're ride-sharing using an app like Uber or Lyft, double check your driver's vehicle information and verify their name before you get in the car with them.

Before you leave let someone know your itinerary and update them to any changes of plans. Make a habit of checking in with a close friend or family member back home at the end of each day. 

I know this can seem like a hassle, but ultimately, it's better to be safe than sorry. If something terrible were to happen, you'll get help faster if someone knows where you were supposed to be that day.