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Staying safe overseas: Our top 5 tips

March 7, 2018

While we know you're probably as brave and fearless as they come, having a few safety tips on hand never hurts. Besides, it will give your parents some peace of mind as they send you off into the unknown.

With that in mind, we've created a list of top tips just for you and your international study experience.

1. Never leave the house without a sufficient phone charge

It's important to have a way to contact people when you're exploring a new city. Whether you want to check your phone because you're lost, or you need to give the authorities a call, you'll want to have a full battery to do so.

Pro tip: If you ever find yourself walking alone and are feeling nervous, pick up your phone and give a friend a call. Simply having someone on the other end of the line can ease your nerves and scare off potential perpetrators.

Remember to charge your phone fully before heading out.

2. Don't be the hero

If you do find yourself falling victim to a mugging, don't try to fight the perpetrator. Cooperate with their instructions, hand over your valuables and let them run off before calling the appropriate authorities. Struggling significantly increases the risk of violence and it's simply not worth it.

3. Keep your drinking under control

Going out with new friends and exploring is one of the most enjoyable aspects of being in a new country. However, if you drink alcohol, it's important to keep it under control. Drinking in excess often leads to impaired judgment and can make you an easy target for criminals.

4. Leave your expensive possessions at home

Stepping out in all of your most expensive jewellery while carrying your fancy camera  is basically a flashing sign attracting potential thieves. Try to limit the amount of jewellery on you at any given time, keep your dress simple and put your camera in a case when you bring it out with you.

5. Don't forget these tips

Maybe you've been abroad for two full years now and you feel like a local. Maybe you're someone who's done a lot of travelling and don't think these rules apply to you.

Whatever the case, never let yourself get careless or overly-confident. It's important to keep your wits about you and remember where there is potential for danger at all times.

For more tips on how to prepare for your international study excursion, download Cohort Go's International Study Survival Guide or get in touch with one of our team members today!