When it comes to safety concerns, times have greatly changed since 9/11, and travel is one of the industries affected most in recent years. While threats of terrorism, natural disasters, and mechanical failures still abound, it is important for travelers to journey with caution, care, and peace. Refusing to give in to fear but remaining alert and wise is key to traveling safely in these times.

As a professional in the industry, I've had many people ask for advice when in comes to safely traveling to their destination. I've compiled a short list here of important tips to keep in mind when safety is a concern.

Check the validity of your passport

Make sure you always have at least 6 months validity on your passport from the date of your return. Many customs officials will refuse travelers access into their country without proper amount of time left on their passport.

In the event of loss or theft, it's also a good idea to make a copy of your passport signature page and carry it with you separately from your passport.

For more information on passport rules and regulations, please visit travel.state.gov.

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Keep your Embassy's contact info on hand

In case of emergency, your first place of contact and sanctuary is your embassy of nationality in the country you're visiting. Have the name, number, address, and business hours of your embassy with you at all times as you travel abroad. Knowing this vital information is crucial to your personal safety and guaranteed return home in the event of medical emergency, terrorism, or national disaster. For a complete list of American Embassies around the world, please check usembassy.gov.

Contact your local bank and credit card companies ahead of time

Many banks and credit card companies decline transactions made on foreign soil. To avoid this stressful inconvenience, contact your bank at least 7-10 days prior to departure and let them know when and where you will be traveling. Also, be cautious when using ATMs in foreign countries. Many hackers are using credit card skimmers to obtain credit card information. It's a good idea to check your bank account daily while traveling.

Keep emergency contact information with you at all times

When traveling abroad, keep all emergency contact information on you at all times. This includes next of kin, your local doctor, your travel insurance company, and your travel agent. If anything goes awry, these will be the people you will need to contact first.

Don't panic

In the horrifying event of a terrorist attack or natural disaster, don't panic. It's important to keep a good head about you in times of crisis so you can think clearly and help others. When your life is in danger, immediately take yourself and others with you to a safe place. Obey the laws, be cooperative with local authorities, and stay calm. Your peaceful composure will calm and strengthen others in a difficult situation.

Finally, in case of emergency, I personally recommend reading Psalm 91. It is God's promise to us of His divine protection in times of disaster and trouble.

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