Choosing secure lodging in a safe area is important, especially when travelling on your own.

Please note that accessibility and safety features vary significantly throughout the world and are not universal.

Consider the following when selecting lodging on your next trip:

Before You Travel –

• Research accommodations carefully and read their reviews for safety concerns.
• Arrange your first night of accommodation before you travel. If possible, arrange all your accommodation during travel. You are more likely to be vulnerable when you first land in a country with unfamiliar surroundings.
• Have an idea of backup accommodations.

Location – Choose a location close to transportation and public services. Be aware of the crime rates where your lodging is located. If you have need for special accomodations, check with the hotel to see if they have appropriate facilities, including a working elevator and ramps.

24 Hour Reception –

• Contact the front desk if you see people behaving in a suspicious manner.
• If appropriate, consider hotels with gate access, guards, and other security measures.
• Meet visitors in the lobby.
• Carry your room key separate from the key packet (that has your room number on it).

Your Room –

• Upon arrival, scan your room and check behind curtains, under the bed, and anywhere else to ensure it is safe.
• Check to make sure the phones work.
• Check for the presence of carbon monoxide detectors, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers.
• Confirm that all external doors and windows, and bathrooms have functioning locks.
• Make sure curtains work for privacy.
• Check for odd-looking electronics that might signal hidden cameras. Do not tamper with these.
• Report issues to the front desk right away.

The Safest Floor –

• Travel industry experts recommend asking for a room located above the ground floor, ideally between the third and sixth floors – where rooms are high enough to avoid easy break-ins, but low enough to make it out of the building in case of a fire.

Close to an Emergency Exit – Review the emergency plan posted in your room. Locate the closest emergency exit and familiarize yourself with the emergency route upon arrival. Be aware that exiting through a window may not be an option.