We’re not saying that you can’t strike up conversations and enjoy being on your own while traveling, but creating at least the initial illusion of a safety net with a fictional travel companion (who just happens to not be around at that moment) can help keep you safe.

Here are some situations we can think of in which this solo travel safety tip can come in handy:

• Fending off unwanted advances.
• An easy out with persistent sellers: (for example, “Oh, I can’t buy that without consulting my husband, but he’s back at the hotel. Maybe we’ll come back later”).
• An excuse not to join an activity that you don’t want to do—”Sorry, my friend is waiting for me at the hotel; I have to get back!”

If you want to go even further, embellish the story by picking up two room keys when you check in (you never know who might be watching).

Caroline Morse is a Senior Editor at SmarterTravel. Follow her adventures on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline and on Twitter @CarolineMorse1.

The post The One Lie You Should Always Tell While Traveling appeared first on SmarterTravel.

From how to get more than a 30-day supply of pills to what you’ll need from your stateside doctor to get a prescription abroad, here’s advice from international healthcare experts about traveling with medication.

Bring a Note from Your Doctor

Dr. Christopher C. Hollingsworth, MD, a general and endovascular surgeon who has practiced in Europe and the United States, says it’s unlikely you’ll get stopped at customs or border control because you’re carrying more than a month’s supply of medicine. However, having an official prescription on hand when traveling with prescription medication is never a bad idea.

“In general, countries honor the rights of travelers to transport their prescribed medications with them,” Dr. Hollingsworth explains. As long as you have supporting documentation about your medical condition (ID cards or a letter from a physician), you are unlikely to have a problem.

Dr. Brendan Anzalone, a doctor of osteopathic medicine and the president and chief medical officer at AeroMD Air Ambulance, suggests going digital with these forms, as they can get lost or creased throughout your travels. This will ensure you won’t have to go digging if you’re questioned.

Keep Medicines in Their Original Bottles

Again, while it’s unlikely you will face any sort of issue when you’re flying with medication, Dr. Anzalone still recommends keeping your pills in the original bottle—complete with the sticker on the front with your name and doctor’s name—as an extra safety precaution. “Carrying your medication in [its] original prescription bottle with a label on it from the pharmacy is helpful if there are any questions in the security line,” he explains.

If you don’t have room in your luggage for the full-size bottles and must downsize, you can pack a small day-of-the-week pill organizer rather than several bulky bottles. Ensure you have documentation from your physician to avoid any potential issues. Paul Tanenbaum, R.Ph., a retired pharmacist, offers this tip if your original prescription bottle is too large: “Make friends with your pharmacist and see if he or she could make you a smaller travel-size bottle for you to fill up.”

Learn the Laws Around Traveling Internationally with Medications

The recommendations for domestic trips also apply to traveling abroad with medication. When flying internationally with prescription medications, the U.S. Department of State recommends storing medications in their original labeled containers and bringing a copy of a doctor’s letter to show customs officers and other officials if necessary. The prescription should note the brand and generic name of the drug.

If you’re taking an unusual drug or one that contains narcotics such as sedatives, carry a note from your doctor explaining what the medication is and why you need it.

Note that some over-the-counter drugs legal in the U.S. may be illegal elsewhere. For example, painkillers containing codeine are prohibited in the United Arab Emirates. Always double-check before you fly.

Exercise Caution with Herbal Medicines

Flying with herbal medicines or supplements to international destinations can be tricky since each country has its own laws about what’s allowed in. To find out what may be restricted in the countries you’ll be visiting or transiting through, refer to the embassy website or contact local consulates.

Make sure herbal remedies and Ayurvedic medicines are in clearly labeled, well-sealed containers, preferably in original bottles. Although the TSA doesn’t require it, it may be helpful to bring a doctor’s note explaining your remedies’ intended use. Keep up to date with any changes in TSA rules by downloading its free MyTSA app (iOS | Android).

Always Pack Medicine in Your Carry-On

Now that you have the prescriptions you need and the note from your doc to prove your case, it’s time to pack. Depending on how much medicine you need each day, you may be tempted to shove your pill pack into your checked bag, but Dr. Anzalone warns against it: “It is best to keep medications in your carry-on baggage. If your checked baggage gets lost, you will still have your prescription medications with you. Remember some aircraft cargo holds are not temperature controlled, which may affect temperature-sensitive medications.”

If you’re worried about bringing medication that must be refrigerated (like insulin, for example) on a plane, Dr. Hollingsworth offers the TSA regulations on cool packs that are allowed through the gates. “Domestically, gel-cooling packs are allowed if frozen at time of presentation to security,” he notes.

Liquid medications (prescription or over-the-counter, like saline solution or eye drops) aren’t subject to the TSA’s three-ounce limits. However, you are required to declare anything over that amount to security officers and present it for inspection.

You may also travel with accompanying items, such as IV bags, pumps, and syringes, as long as they’re declared before you begin the screening process. All of these items will be X-rayed unless you request a manual inspection.

Bring Extra Medication

Dr. Hollingsworth’s rule of thumb is to bring twice the amount of medicine you need and to separate the bottles between your carry-on and your personal item. Why? Two words: flight troubles. “Changes or delays can have a butterfly effect that can have repercussions for the rest of your trip. Plan for the unexpected and pack extra medication you might need for an unplanned longer stay,” he says.

Exercise Caution When Flying with Narcotics

If you’re traveling with any type of prescribed narcotic used to relieve pain, such as Vicodin, Oxycontin, Percocet, or codeine, you might want to bring your prescription documentation, as well as a doctor’s note. Though this is not required by the TSA, it may prove helpful when getting through security. Since these types of drugs are widely abused, security screeners may be suspicious if they are unaccompanied by the proper paperwork. Having the original prescription will prove the pills’ necessity, and avoid any further delays or additional questioning.

The trouble of traveling with only a doctor’s note is that unless it was written in the previous month, it may lose validity. Prescriptions are clearly dated and include the signature of your doctor. Simply make a photocopy of each prescription before you have it filled. The photocopied version will be null and void, but this does not alter it as a valid document.

To take extra precaution, you may also want to travel with phone numbers for your pharmacy and prescribing doctor. This may seem like an unnecessary hassle, but it could prevent delays and problems at the airport.

Be Strategic About Your Meds

If your carry-on is just too heavy to meet those puddle-jumper restrictions, Dr. Hollingsworth challenges you to be strategic. While you might want to take your mini-sized bottle of Advil, those sorts of medications are available everywhere.

“Give priority to any medications that are vital to your functioning or survival. Asthma inhalers, diabetic medications, anti-seizure medications, and blood pressure medications come to mind. Make sure to bring medications that have rebound or withdrawal symptoms if you run out,” he says. “A trip is not a good time to see how you function without your arthritis or anti-anxiety medications.”

Consider Travel Insurance

Many factors influence whether you should purchase travel insurance. How long will you be traveling? Where are you going? Will you be lounging by a beach for a week or undertaking adventure activities in a rainforest? Do you have ongoing medical conditions that might need care?

If you’ll need health insurance for your trip, Dr. Quigley recommends exploring your options before heading overseas to determine what policy and plan are best for you. You can also work with assistance companies—like International SOS—to help you if you’re struggling with a health situation overseas.

Make a Date with Your Doctors

If you’re leaving the U.S. for an extended time, in addition to getting foreign currency and shedding tears at your farewell party, you should schedule pre-departure appointments with your doctors. During these visits, get a full physical and begin a discussion about your wellness needs while traveling. Work with your physician to plan for the medications you’ll need. Medical professionals can help you secure more than a 30-day supply of any medicines along with the necessary paperwork. They can also offer advice about what you need to bring to keep your health top-notch.

Find the Loopholes for Refilling Prescriptions Overseas

Dr. Quigley explains that prescriptions cannot be filled abroad, nor can your primary care doctor call in a prescription for you. But there is a way around it: Know the generic forms and other names of the same medicine. Depending on the country, you may be able to get the medicine without a prescription.

As an example, Dr. Hollingsworth was able to walk into a pharmacy in Paris and receive antibiotics for a pal with a serious ear infection—no note required. Even so, packing a few “just in case” prescriptions before you leave will help ease your worries. Your primary care doctor or a travel clinic can help you navigate the options.

Tanenbaum recommends caution: “If you must obtain your meds from somewhere other than your U.S. pharmacy, beware that there is a major problem of counterfeit drugs out there.” He also notes that brand and generic drug names may differ from one country to another: “The same name may be for a totally different medication; if you have to get some while overseas, it may not be what you usually take so that it does not treat your medical condition, and may actually be dangerous for you to take.” Make sure you’re visiting a reputable pharmacist (ask for a recommendation from your hotel or the local tourist board) and that you double-check whether the drug you’re requesting actually treats your condition.

Most Importantly, Plan Ahead

Plan ahead, especially if you are switching time zones and have to take medicine at a certain time of day. “Have a medical itinerary run parallel to your day-to-day travel itinerary. Plan out the nearest towns [to] where you’re going to be and identify the best providers for you based on your specific medical needs. Don’t let it be a fire drill when you get there,” recommends Dr. Hollingsworth. “If you know in 30 days [that] you need to have a prescription refilled, and you know where you will be within that time frame, then research which medical professional will be best for you. Do your homework.” It just may save your trip—or even your life.

Tips to Stay Healthy While Traveling

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Lindsay Tigar is a travel and lifestyle writer with a constant thirst for adventure and exploring new lands. You can find Lindsay globetrotting when the mood strikes, making sure to find time to explore both the wine and fitness scene in countries across the globe. Her work has appeared across dozens of outlets; learn more at LindsayTigar.com.

 Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Molly Feltner, Jessica Labrencis, Patricia Magaña, and Michele Sponagle contributed to this story. A previous version of this story had an incorrect spelling of Paul Tanenbaum’s name. It has been corrected. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Traveling with Medications: What You Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

If you’ve ever tried to navigate in a place where your phone has weak or no celluar service, you probably wished you could take advantage of offline phone GPS. Fortunately, you can: GPS signals are raining down around us at all times, and your phone can connect to them without any real reliance on your cellular company, impact on your data plan, or dependence on the phone mode you are in. These signals are free for all of us to use, so long as we have the right apps and a device with which to connect.

In fact, you can even use an older, retired phone as a GPS unit, so long as the apps will still run on the operating system. Then, once you get back to civilization, your regular smartphone will still be fully charged and ready to go.

How Accurate Is My Phone GPS Without Data?

Most of the apps I have used measure GPS coordinates to tenths of a second, which is accurate within four to 11 meters, depending on where on the planet you are plotting (accuracy improves as you move toward the poles).

If that isn’t close enough, technology is in development that will make some phones accurate to within 10 centimeters.

You Don’t Have to Be Offline to Use a Phone as GPS

Many of the most popular uses for GPS are for folks who are off the grid without access to Wi-Fi or cellular connections, but the technology’s usefulness is not limited to the backcountry by any means. First, we all know that cell coverage is hardly ubiquitous even in developed areas; heck, my kid’s central New Jersey soccer practice field shows “no service” so often that some parents drive a mile down the road during practice to connect.

Another benefit is preserving battery life; GPS uses are particularly beneficial when you are doing things in areas where cellular service is available but poor, which causes your phone to burn up battery life trying to connect. Using offline phone GPS can also help you conserve data. This is useful when traveling abroad, where data plans are often costly and limited.

Finally, many location-based apps gobble up data voraciously. Your phone’s GPS tracking allows you to use them in offline mode, incurring no data penalty so long as you preload maps and information while connected to Wi-Fi.

Certainly, your cellphone can do more without a cell connection than you might think; here are five of the best.

Track Your Flight in Real Time

Let’s start with my favorite way to use phone GPS without data: to track the flight I’m on in real time. There are a few apps that do this, but I use Flyover Country, created by University of Minnesota researchers and funded by the National Science Foundation.

The app offers options to view road maps, terrain maps, and satellite maps, including information on geology, underwater core samples, mammal and dinosaur fossils, and landscape features for various destinations as you pass over them in flight.

To use the app you need to input and preload all the data along the route while still on a Wi-Fi or cell connection. Then, once you go into airplane mode, all that information is available as you fly, along with your ground speed and altitude.

You’ll need a window seat for this to work well; in fact, on some flights I have found that I had to have the phone almost against the window to obtain and hold a reliable GPS signal.

Go Backcountry Hiking

Smartphones are becoming go-to tools for many hardcore backcountry travelers, who can spend days or even months out of range of cellular signals. Many find phones more space- and weight-efficient than dedicated GPS units, particularly since phones can take photos, too.

This excellent how-to guide makes a compelling case for a smartphone as your go-to GPS tool. It includes some very good battery life management tips, noting that some phones can last five to 10 days without a charge with careful use.

A few of the best backcountry navigation apps include Gaia GPS, AllTrails, iPhiGeNie, and ViewRanger.

Track Your Fitness

A booming number of fitness applications work with offline GPS, including MapMyRide, Strava, MapMyRun, Runkeeper, and MapMyFitness. For most of these, using your phone GPS without data will allow you to track your run, walk, hike, or other outing offline. While you need a connection to take advantage of some of the apps’ features, using them on GPS-only mode preserves on battery life and data usage, which can be a helpful upside when you are tracking long bike rides or runs.

Fitness Armband for Your Phone

The most quintessential time to save data and money is during your workout, complete with a robust armband of course.

Note Your Exact Location

There are all kinds of ways this can be useful, such as saving your spot in an airport parking lot or sharing your location with someone else to facilitate a meetup. I know folks who have used GPS coordinates on their phones to mark and/or share things like trailheads, campsites, turn-offs for dirt roads, fishing spots, waterfalls, and abandoned ruins.

The free My GPS Coordinates app (available for iOS and Android) has functions to email or text your coordinates directly from the main screen, and even shows the accuracy of the GPS signal (it tracks my office desk within 16 to 33 feet depending on signal access).

To share locations you obviously need connectivity, but you can log them using GPS and then share or recall them later.

Use Mapping Apps Offline

Finally, there are heaps of full-featured offline mapping applications, including the ubiquitous Google Maps and Apple Maps. Many of these are unfortunately somewhat limited when it comes to GPS-only navigation; Google Maps, for example, allows you to pre-download a 50-square-kilometer map for temporary offline use, which will help in some situations but isn’t much use on a longer road trip. To find alternatives, see 10 Best GPS App and Navigation App Options for Android and The 5 Best Offline GPS Apps for iPhone.

Cell Phone Car Mount

Make navigation a little safer with a car mount stand, adaptable to almost all smartphone sizes.

Ed Hewitt is a seasoned globetrotter who brings you a biweekly glimpse into the latest travel news, views, and trends—and how they could affect your travel plans.

The post No Signal? 5 Ways to Use Your Phone GPS Without Data appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Want to have that same experience every time you walk in your front door at home? We tested out a variety of fragrance methods, from candles to diffusers, to find out which were the best at making our home smell like a five-star hotel. Try out our picks and feel like you’re on vacation every day.

Jupiter Smells Rich Mykonos Candle

Your house may be hundreds of miles from the beach, but it can smell like you’re on an exotic vacation in Mykonos with Jupiter Smells Rich’s candle. Notes of wild orchid, jasmine, lemon blossom, vanilla, and sandalwood conjure up an island getaway.

This luxury candle is made from 100 percent soy wax and has an all-natural beeswax-coated wick to ensure a clean burn. The scent will linger throughout your house long after you’ve blown out the flame.  

Broken Top Sea Salt Surf Reed Diffuser

A diffuser is one of the easiest and safest ways to make your home smell like a hotel. A diffuser is a small vial of scented liquid that disperses the fragrance through wooden reeds. Unlike a candle or plug-in, you can just open up a diffuser and forget about it.

Our favorite diffuser is Broken Top’s Sea Salt Surf, a beautiful glass bottle that efficiently distributes perfume throughout a room for up to four months. When the scent starts to fade, simply flip the reeds to refresh the scent. We love the Sea Salt Surf scent, which blends jasmine, sweet cream, and driftwood for an unforgettable beachy smell.

Enviroscent

Worried about what you’re breathing in with all of the artificial air fresheners on the market? Enviroscent does things differently, with a focus on making its scents cleaner, healthier, and safer. All of its products use pure fragrance oils in concentrated form (with no additives) and are packaged using renewable and recyclable minimal-waste materials. Scent your space via the stix + stand diffuser, a car vent clip, or a spray.

No matter which method you choose, it’s all flameless and liquidless to eliminate danger and mess. There are many delectable scents to choose from, including a blend of lavender tea and honey, which smells incredibly relaxing and delicious.

Hillhouse Naturals Candle and Diffuser

For a fragrance that will fill your house and last a long time, look to Hillhouse Naturals. This company was founded by a mother/daughter duo who make the products (with the help of a team of women) on their family farm. They use local ingredients, most of which come straight from the farm. Hillhouse Naturals’ diffusers last for an average of three to four months, which is significantly longer than most other diffusers on the market. The soy candles also burn longer than regular wax candles and don’t have the dangerous chemicals that can be found in mass-market candles.

You’ll find plenty of unique scents here, including travel-themed varieties like the lakeside diffuser, which smells like “spectacular sunsets upon fresh cool waters” and conjures up past waterfront vacations.

Scentfill

Scentfill offers a healthier alternative to traditional plug-ins. The company makes refills that are designed to fit into Air Wick oil warmers but are made with 100 percent plant-based and natural oils rather than chemicals. The fragrances are much more complex and luxurious than what you’d find from a drugstore plug-in—choose the Relax Blend with lemon, lavender, and eucalyptus to make your home smell like a high-end hotel.

Most scents will last between 30 and 60 days if the warmer is set to low, and the refills are reasonably priced at $5.77, making this an affordable option for home fragrances. 

Asakuki’s 5-in-1 Aromatherapy Device

Enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy and a humidifier with Asakuki’s 5-in-1 Aromatherapy Device. This ultrasonic essential oil diffuser has a large 500-milliliter water tank that allows the diffuser to run for 10 to 15 hours at a time. An auto-off safety will switch off the diffuser when the water runs out, so you don’t have to worry about monitoring it. The Asakuki’s fan is ultra-quiet, so you won’t even notice that it’s on.

Use your own essential oils with the diffuser to create the perfect custom scent for your home. 

Lavender Linen Room Spray

Lavender is one of the most calming and relaxing scents and will help give your home that hotel spa smell. Spritz this lavender linen room spray on your pillows, and it may just help you improve your sleep as well.

Once you start to associate the smell with sleep, you can even pack the room spray and take it with you to help you sleep better in unfamiliar hotel rooms. 

Skandinavisk Candles

For the ultimate hygge experience, light a candle from Skandinavisk. This company takes inspiration from Scandinavia to create unique fragrances like Hav (sea), Lykke (happiness), and Koto (home). Each candle is beautifully designed around a theme, like the Nordlys candle (Norwegian for northern lights), which comes in a painted glass holder that looks like the sky.

The candles will scent a mid-sized room for up to 45 hours, and the glass can be reused as a plant holder or decorative vase once it’s empty.

The post How to Make Your Home Smell Like a Hotel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Fear of flying can be caused by a number of factors, including claustrophobia or a fear of heights. Many nervous flyers feel irrational anxiety that their plane will malfunction and crash, no matter how many times they hear the statistics about how safe flying is compared to driving. Other travelers worry about terrorist hijackings or panic at the idea that they’re not in control of the aircraft that’s carrying them.

No matter why you’re scared of flying, there are certain steps you can take to help alleviate your fears. To fly or not to fly is a personal decision and one that no one else can make for you. But for those who are determined not to let this change your way of life, below are a few tips for overcoming your fear of flying.

Before Your Trip

Know What to Expect

For many fearful flyers, learning the basics of how airplanes work can go a long way toward alleviating their anxiety. For instance, understanding how a plane can continue to fly even if an engine fails can help you feel less concerned about your aircraft malfunctioning. GuidetoPsychology.com offers an easy-to-understand explanation of how planes stay in the air, what causes turbulence, and what’s behind those scary sounds during takeoff and landing.

Dr. Margaret Wehrenberg, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist and author of The Anxious Brain and The 10 Best-Ever Anxiety Management Techniques, recommends asking yourself: “What is the catastrophe? What do I actually think will happen? What am I making a big deal out of? … Answer these questions before you get on the plane.”

Familiarize Yourself with Your Plane

Getting to know what your plane looks like can make it seem a little less scary. I once heard of a fearful flyer who actually put a picture of the plane’s cabin on her computer’s desktop; by the time her flight rolled around, the image was familiar, not scary.

Once your flight is booked (and even before), you can see what kind of plane you will be flying on. While a simple seat map probably won’t help alleviate much anxiety, you can do a quick search on Google Images for the interior of that airplane and easily find a photo so you are prepared for what the interior looks like – if there are three seats, a middle aisle, built-in screens- you’ll know what to expect when you step off of the passenger boarding bridge onto the plane.

Choose The Right Seat

Most airlines and booking engines allow you to request a seat assignment when you book your flight. Request an aisle seat, particularly if you’re prone to claustrophobia; you’ll feel less hemmed in by other people, and you’ll be able to get up and move around the cabin more easily. This also makes it easier to avoid looking out the window if those sky-high views make you nervous. (For more information on nabbing the seat you want, see 10 Ways to Get the Best Airplane Seat.)

Request a window seat if you think you’ll be more comfortable seeing what is going on outside of the plane. Seeing the clouds, blue sky, and dotted lights of the towns and cities below may give you a sense of control. When there is turbulence, knowing you are going through a cloud will help ease your worries. 

If you are booking with an airline that only lets you pick your seat for a fee- pay it. If you have booked with an airline like Southwest that has no assigned seating but assigns a boarding order, check in as soon as possible so you are in the earliest boarding group. 

Monitor Your Media Intake

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning: Avoid airplane disaster movies, news coverage of plane crashes, or other scary media images. Remember that the vast majority of flights arrive safely, but only the problem flights make the news. Don’t let that skew your impressions of flying.

Instead of watching anything that could increase your anxiety, try meditation music or a guided meditation specifically for fear of flying. Anything that won’t spark extra anxiety will help lead up to your flight. 

Think Positive

It’s easy to let the flight anxiety build in the days leading up to your trip. When this happens, counter your fear of flying with the exciting prospect of getting to be on a plane, hopefully going somewhere fun. Try to focus on the positive—like all the things you’ll do once you reach your destination.

Remember- you are not alone. Millions of people fly every day worldwide, and most get to their destination without anything happening. Chances are,  you’ll be with the millions of people who travel daily without a glitch. 

At the Airport

Don’t Rush

Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the airport before your flight is scheduled to depart. Racing to the gate and worrying about missing your plane will only add to your anxiety. For more advice, see How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

Once you are through security, familiarize yourself with where your gate is so you can gauge how far it is from restaurants, cafes, stores, and restrooms- that way, you’ll know how long it will take you to get there, and you won’t be rushing. 

When you’ve found your gate, find a restaurant or cafe to sit and relax. Bring a good book or queue up a (relaxing) podcast to bide your time. Or simply people watch- often, seeing everyone else at the airport doing exactly what you are doing without a care in the world may help you feel better about your flight. 

Get to your gate in plenty of time for boarding, with a stop at the restroom. This way, you can hear all announcements and won’t have the added stress of running to your gate for boarding. 

Wait for Your Flight in an Airport Lounge

Most airlines have private airport lounges that are quiet, luxurious oases away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the airport. While they’re usually reserved for club members or elite flyers, you can often purchase a day pass for about $50—which may be a small price to pay for a soothing place to relax and prepare for your flight.

Programs like Priority Pass have a yearly fee and get you access to airport lounges in airports all over the world. Purchasing something like this may be worthwhile if you plan on flying frequently. Some credit cards like Capital One Venture X, American Express Platinum, and more include airport lounge access, so be sure to check the rewards that come with your credit card. 

On the Plane

Meet the Crew

If there’s time before your flight, ask to meet the pilot of your plane. Alternatively, spend a minute or two chatting with a flight attendant. Often, meeting the folks who hold your safety in their hands can make the plane seem like a friendlier environment and reassure you that the crew is knowledgeable and competent.

Once you are on the plane, telling the flight attendants you are nervous is okay. They are trained to be pleasant and will likely assure you you’re in good hands. 

Tune In

Ensure your phone or tablet is stocked with soothing music to help get you into a peaceful frame of mind. Download stress-busting meditation or instructional breathing sessions from an app such as Headspace (iOS | Android) or Simple Habit (iOS | Android) to listen to them when your phone is in airplane mode.

You can also load up your phone with classical music, which has been proven to be good for your mental health. If you have a favorite album or musician, listening to familiar songs can also be beneficial. 

Remind Yourself Who’s in Charge

Many anxious flyers are bothered by their perceived lack of control since they have no influence over the safety or performance of the aircraft. Try to regain a little control by reminding yourself that you made the decision to fly and that you can decide how you respond to the experience.

It can be helpful to keep track of your flight while flying; knowing where you are, how much time you have left, and what the path is can help you feel like you have some control over the flight. 

Breathe

As anxiety increases, your breathing may get shallow—but deep, conscious breathing is an instant stress reliever. Breathe slowly and deeply for a count of five or 10, in through your nose and out through your mouth.

Although this bit of advice may seem obvious, breathing is arguably the best way to vanquish anxiety. Dr. Wehrenberg explains that controlled breathing works because “breathing is the one thing that will stop a panic attack.”

Turning on the air vents above your head, leaning back, and closing your eyes may help you feel less claustrophobic. Sniffing a lavender sachet or sucking on a peppermint are other calming, meditative tricks.

A Sensate device can help you calm down using vibrations and sound to lower your stress. Using an infrasonic resonance, it relaxes  your vagus nerve, helping you to calm down for your flight.

Read or Watch Something Fun

Pack a magazine, a good book, or a puzzle to take your mind off what’s happening. Order up a comedy on your plane’s in-flight entertainment system, or preload a few of your favorite flicks onto your laptop. Be sure to stock up on activities that will last you the duration of your flight and that you can continue to enjoy when it’s time to turn electronic devices off.

If your airplane has in-flight entertainment, you can usually see what movies and TV shows will be available on your flight beforehand. Look ahead of time and find something that will help the time go by; something funny and not tense will be your best bet for keeping you calm and distracted.

Have a Drink or CBD

Many nervous flyers turn to alcohol to calm their nerves. While this may be fine in moderation, keep in mind that alcohol should not be combined with anti-anxiety medications. Also, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, particularly in the arid environment of an airplane. If you treat yourself to a cocktail, follow it up with plenty of water.

CBD is allowed on airplanes, and a great way to calm nerves is by dropping a few drops of CBD oil on your tongue. Something like CBDFX Calming Tincture Oil will help you relax and comes in a 1oz bottle, so won’t take up much room in your bag. 

Avoid Caffeine

This and other stimulants can make you even more jittery. Try to avoid caffeine in the hours leading up to your flight, as well as when you are on the plane. Adding extra stimulants will not help your anxiety.

If you need a hot drink, go with an herbal tea. The Republic of Tea has a Relax tea containing herbs proven to calm you. Not a tea drinker? Many alternatives will give you the energy you need without the jitters. We love MUD/WTR, and their Morning Ritual Starter Kit will have everything you need to make yourself a coffee-like beverage without the added agitation.

Go with the Flow

Recognize that panic is temporary and that it will pass. If you are afraid of losing control and succumbing to fear during the flight, remind yourself that even a full-on panic attack is only a temporary affliction; you’ll get through it. 

Take the flight step by step: getting to the airport, getting through security, boarding, getting in your seat, taking off, cruising, the descent, and landing. By compartmentalizing each stage of the flying process, it can help the time pass more quickly. 

If anything happens during the flight that makes you nervous- look around and see what the flight attendants and other passengers are doing. When the flight attendants are calmly walking the aisles, handing out drinks, you’ll know there is nothing to worry about. When the woman who clearly travels for business is sitting in her seat, continuing to work on her laptop, you can sit back and be assured what is happening is a normal part of the flight. 

More Fear of Flying Help

Pop a Pill

If your fear is particularly debilitating and you’ve tried other relaxation techniques without success, ask your doctor if it may be worth taking an anti-anxiety medication or a sleeping pill before you fly.

There are over-the-counter options available as well. Magnesium, T-Theanine and Ashwagandha are all supplements that people take for anxiety. There are plenty of over-the-counter sleeping pills you can try, too. Remember, as with any medication, be sure to check with your doctor before taking them. 

Contact a Professional

How do you know when it’s time to make an appointment with a medical professional? Says Dr. Wehrenberg, “If you’re losing sleep, feeling sick with anxiety, or avoiding travel at the expense of your own or other people’s convenience,” a licensed therapist or counselor can help you figure out the root causes of your fear and how to overcome them.

If you have time before your flight, consider Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through behavioral changes, meditation, and several other cognitive techniques, a CBT therapist can help prepare you for flying. 

Go Online

There are loads of special online programs and websites that will help you get over your fear. From tips, self-help programs, as well as seminars, and even a workbook, there is something for everyone, no matter what your learning preference is.  Here are a few to try:

• SOAR offers free tips, newsletters, chats, videos, and more comprehensive counseling and programs for a fee.
• Anxieties.com offers a free online self-help program for those who want to overcome their fear of flying.
• GuidetoPsychology.com is a comprehensive site with information about how airplanes work and tips for overcoming your fear of flying.
• Fearless Flyer has a video explaining the PATH Method (Psychological and Technical Hack), giving you a less than 30-minute option to help you curb your fear. 
• Fearless Flight is run by a former pilot, Captain Ron. With his expertise, he offers fear of flying classes, as well as a live, monthly group coaching webinar. 

Fear of Flying Workbook is a workbook to help you get over your fear. Through questionnaires, checklists, an in-flight panic journal, symptom and responses, as well as breathing and meditation exercises, the book has everything you need to help you with your flight when you’re afraid.

The post How to Get Over Your Fear of Flying appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Want to stay in shape on vacation without having to spend half your morning at the hotel gym? With this hotel room workout exercise routine, all you need is 20 minutes to get a full-body workout. And best of all, you don’t need any gym equipment, so you can leave your yoga mat at home.

Watch the video here, and then scroll down to find details on the number of reps and a breakdown of how to do each exercise.

5-Minute Hotel Room Workout Warm-up:

1. Jumping Jacks (60-seconds)

2. High Knees (60-seconds)

3. Leg Swings (30-seconds each)

4. Arm Swings (30-seconds)

5. Shoulder Circles (30-seconds each)

6. Core Twists (30-seconds)

10 Hotel Room Workout Exercises: 

Recommended: Two to three sets of 12 for each

1. Push-Ups: (works biceps, chest, core, shoulders and triceps)

Steps: Place your hands on the floor to line up with your shoulders and move into a plank position. Keeping your back flat and core tight, lower down and up.

Modified Push Up: Place your knees on the floor, and follow the same steps.

2. Tricep Dips: (works chest, deltoids, triceps, and upper back)

Steps: Place your hands at the edge of a chair or bed shoulder-width apart, with your feet out in front of you.  Keeping your back straight, bend your elbows back until they reach a 90-degree angle, and then raise up by fully extending your arms.

Modified Tricep Dip: Sit on the floor with your knees at a 90-degree angle. Place your arms directly behind you, and bend from the elbow to dip backward and up.

3. Single-Leg Stand (works core, glutes, hamstrings and quads)

Steps: Sit on a chair with both feet on the floor. Elevate one leg, and lean forward using your working leg and core to stand up. Sit back down and repeat.

Modified Leg Stand: Using your core strength, stand up with both legs then sit back down and repeat.

4. Squats (works core, glutes, hamstrings and quads)

Steps: Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Lower down until your hips and knees are parallel, then come up and repeat.

Modification (45-Degree Wall Sit): Place your back against the wall and slide down to a 45-degree angle, keeping your knees and feet aligned. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.

5. Hip Hinge (works core and lower back)

Steps: Stand with your hands on your hips, feet hip-width apart, and your knees slightly bent. Keeping your back flat and core tight, slowly lower your upper body down and up.

Modified Hip Hinge: Sit on a chair or bed with both feet on the floor, and follow the same steps.

6. Leg Lifts, Front, Back, & Side (works core, glutes, and hip flexors)

Steps: Stand up with your back straight and core tight. Raise one leg straight out in front of you to a 45-to-90-degree angle, then bring it back down. Hold onto an object for balance if needed. After one set repeat exercise to the side, and then to the back. Adjust the height of the leg lift to modify.

7. Standing Bicycle Crunch (works core and obliques)

Steps: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, fingertips behind your head, and elbows pointing outward, in line with your shoulders. Bring your right leg up and twist the left side of your body to the right, bringing your opposing knee and elbow together at the torso. Continue by alternating sides.

Modified Bicycle Crunch: Place one hand against the wall for balance and do a set on one side before switching.

8. Plank (works core and lower back)

Steps: Go into a push-up position, or, bend your elbows and rest your weight on your forearms, keeping your back flat and core tight. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.

Modified Plank: Follow the same steps, only this time with your knees touching the floor.

9. Side Plank (works core and obliques)

Steps: Lie on your side with your body in a straight line. Extend your forearm out, with your elbow lined up slightly below your shoulder. Keeping your hips square and your neck in line with your spine, push yourself up so that your palm is supporting your weight. Hold for 30 seconds and lower, then switch sides.

Modified Side Plank: Follow the same steps using your forearm to hold yourself up.

10. Heel Raises (works calves)

Steps:  Raise your heels off the floor while keeping your knees straight. Hold, and then lower your heels to the floor.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

This video was filmed at the Hotel AKA Boston (formerly Nine Zero Hotel) in Boston, Massachusetts.

The post 10 Hotel Room Exercises You Can Do Without Any Workout Gear appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Jetsetgo Airplane Seat, Armrest, and Tray Table Cover

It’s no joke just how dirty and germ-infested planes are. One of the most contaminated areas—and the one most likely to touch your food—is the tray table. Defend yourself with the Jetsetgo Airplane Seat, Armrest, and Tray Table Cover. These covers can easily slip on and off your seat in seconds.

Hand Sanitizer

You might not always have access to clean running water and soap, so always pack some travel-sized hand sanitizer. Use it before you eat, after using the airplane bathroom, or anywhere else you encounter germs. For the sake of the people around you on the plane, we recommend an unscented hand sanitizer.

Sanitizing Wipes

Hand sanitizer is great but doesn’t work as well when you need to clean a hard surface, like a tray table or the seatback screen on a plane. In your hotel room, use an antibacterial wipe to clean the TV remote and the door handles. Individually wrapped sanitizing wipes won’t dry out and work on pretty much any surface.

Saline Nasal Spray

Did you know that healthy travel often starts in your nose? An airplane cabin’s desert-like air can dry out the mucous membranes in your nose, which are essential in preventing illness. Keeping these delicate tissues hydrated with a saline nasal spray during long flights could help you fend off germs from the guy coughing behind you. Ayr is one travel-size option worth considering.

USB Humidifier

As another weapon against dry air, pack this handy portable mini travel air humidifier so you can breathe in clean, moist air no matter where you’re staying. This is one of our favorite tiny travel products because it has a 3.5 hour batter life, is easily charged via USB, and is ultra-quiet for hotel stays.

Microfleece Travel Blanket

Airline blankets aren’t always washed in between flights, so who knows what kind of nasty germs you’re snuggling up with? Rest easy under the World’s Best Travel Blanket, a 100 percent polyester fleece-knit, travel-sized blanket that’s soft, cozy, and easy to clean.

Flight Ear Plugs

For flyers who experience ear pain during take-off and landing, earplugs that help regulate pressure can be vital. Many travelers also find them helpful when driving through changing elevations in mountainous regions. EarPlanes and Flents are two popular brands.

First-Aid Kit

A small first-aid kit stocked with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other medical necessities is always a wise thing to have on hand, particularly if you’ll be spending much of your vacation outdoors without easy access to a doctor. Surviveware offers a well-stocked kit that won’t take up too much space in your suitcase.

If you’re flying with a first-aid kit in your carry-on, remember to double check it for any items that might not make it through airport security. Small tubes of antibiotic cream, for instance, should go into your quart-size plastic bag of liquids and gels, while sharp items such as lancets or large scissors could be confiscated. Small scissors (with blades shorter than four inches) are fine.

Water Purifier

Headed to a place where there isn’t potable water? It’s still important to stay hydrated. Bring along the LifeStraw water bottle and you’ll be able to turn any water into something drinkable, thanks to the built-in filter that removes bacteria and parasites (it is not effective against viruses; if those are a concern, upgrade to the the self-cleaning LARQ Bottle). Another good option is the GRAYL, a reusable bottle that works a bit like a French press to remove viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and some chemicals as you force water through it.

Back-country hikers and travelers in developing countries where the water isn’t safe to drink might also like the SteriPEN, a UV light that destroys bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.

Pill Organizer

It can be tricky enough to keep track of your medication schedule at home; add jet lag, a different daily routine, and a new time zone, and having a pill organizer can literally be a lifesaver. Stuff Seniors Need and Ezy Dose offer travel-friendly pill cases that don’t take up too much space.

Sunscreen

Sunburn not only causes pain and unsightly skin but can also contribute to heat exhaustion. (“Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself,” according to the Mayo Clinic.) That’s why it’s important to throw a bottle of sunblock into your bag, especially if you’ll be traveling in warmer climates.

Note: If you’re planning on snorkeling, do the environment a favor and choose a reef-safe sunblock; chemicals found in most sunscreen brands, particularly oxybenzone, contribute to coral damage. Blue Lizard offers travel-sized options that will keep you, your travel companions, and the reefs protected.

Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes, ticks, and other creepy-crawlies can transmit nasty diseases ranging from malaria to Zika. Traveling to an affected area? Stock up on insect repellent to use during your trip, and consider treating your shoes and clothing with permethrin before you leave. 3M offers a travel-size insect repellent with DEET in a lotion or spray form.

Portable Toothbrush Sanitizer

Sometimes you have to subject your toothbrush to less-than-ideal conditions on the road—using it in the airplane bathroom, for instance, or storing it in a dubiously clean hotel bathroom cup. Before you put it in your mouth, sanitize your toothbrush with this Rechargeable Toothbrush Case, a portable case that uses UV light to kill the bacteria lurking on your toothbrush.

Compression Socks

Got a long flight, drive, or train ride coming up? You could be putting yourself at risk for blood clots, which can occur any time you’re sitting still for long periods of time (not only when you’re at 30,000 feet). If such a clot spreads to the lungs, it could have life-threatening consequences. Compression socks can help stimulate blood flow, reduce swelling, and prevent deep vein thrombosis. (Note: If you have certain medical conditions, your doctor may recommend custom-fitted compression stockings.)

Cell Phone Sanitizer

Do you open the public bathroom door using a tissue to protect yourself from germs? You should actually be using one to save yourself from your dirty cell phone, as studies have found that most phones have more bacteria than a public bathroom door handle (and more than the toilet seat). Think about how many times you’ve snapped a photo of your meal with your phone and then dived in to eat without washing your hands in between. Gross. Keep your phone clean with PhoneSoap Go, which sanitizes and charges your phone at the same time.

Caroline Morse Teel never travels without hand sanitizer, one of her favorite tiny travel products. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline and on Twitter @CarolineMorse1.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 15 Tiny Travel Products to Help You Stay Healthy on Vacation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Embarrassing Travel Gadgets That Work

Though they might cost you a bit of dignity, the following items are geared to make life a little easier for travelers.

Sunany Female Urination Device

This is a female urination device (let’s be honest—it’s a funnel) that allows women to pee standing up. Why on Earth would you waste time looking for the nearest bathroom when you can cower behind a bush while using a hot-pink silicone funnel to pee?

Tush Wipe

Unlike its sister moist-towelette products like Wet Ones, Tush Wipes didn’t get the memo about delicate subtlety. If your conspicuously labeled packet of butt cleaner falls out of your purse, best deny ownership.

Claspies

You’ve fallen into the airplane toilet again. Blame traditional underwear. Fortunately for you, there are Claspies, underwear with clasps on its sides that allow you to quickly escape from your skivvies without picking up your feet and tumbling into the bowl. According to the product website, “While traveling, there is nothing better than putting on a fresh pair of panties in the middle of a long journey! Thank you, Claspies.” There is also nothing better than not falling into the toilet. Thanks again! Buy a pair for $14.95 from Claspies.

Ostrich Pillow

For a stylish in-flight nap experience, choose the Ostrich Pillow. This pod-like pillow allows tired travelers to sleep in a variety of positions with a convenient nose and mouth window for easy breathing (or snoring). With two additional openings on the sides for your hands and arms, you can cozy up in your own cocoon until you reach your destination.

Jetsetgo Airplane Seat Cover 

Create a barrier between you and the petri dish that is an airplane seat with Jetsetgo Airplane Seat Covers. The kit comes with a seat cover, armrest covers, a tray table cover, and four sanitary wipes to keep you from picking up inflight germs.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 5 Embarrassing Travel Gadgets That Actually Work appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Nite Ize Waterproof Phone Case

Take your phone with you anywhere you go (even underwater) with Nite Ize’s Waterproof Phone Case. This roomy protective case will fit pretty much any smartphone, and keep it dry even underwater. Made out of a clear, touchscreen friendly material, the case allows you to use your phone normally (including taking pictures with the front and back cameras) without taking it out of the bag. We love this waterproof case in particular because it features an easy-to-use zipper and the touchscreen actually works smoothly while inside (which is not the case with all cases).

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Beis The Dopp Kit

Any frequent flyer would be thrilled to receive Beis’ Dopp Kit, a spill-proof bag that will keep all your toiletries safely contained and organized. The bag’s best feature? A handy loop that lets you hang it from towel hooks in the bathroom—perfect for tiny hotel sinks. 

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Matador Beast18 Ultralight Technical Backpack

When would a backpack be considered a stocking stuffer? When it’s Matador’s Beast18 backpack. Despite its 18 liter size and supportive frame, this backpack is able to be folded down and packed into a small carrying case for easy travel. The unique flexible frame allows the backpack to maintain its shape, but can be twisted, folded in half, and zipped into a compression sack. 

The portable backpack still has all the features you’d look for in a daypack—a removable hip belt, gear loops, multiple pockets, breathable mesh straps, and a waterproof coating. It’s also incredibly lightweight (1lb 5oz) so it won’t add to your load on the trail.

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Nomadix Bandana Towel

A microfiber travel towel can come in handy in a surprising number of situations while on the road. Nomadix Bandana Towel’s wearable design makes it even more versatile. It’s sun-protective, odor-resistant, quick-drying, and lightweight, so you can bring it from the beach to the mountains and be ready for anything. 

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Nalgene Sustain Water Bottle

Outdoorsy travelers will love to find a Nalgene Sustain Water Bottle in their stocking. Made from a BPA-free, lightweight material, these bottles are significantly lighter than most water bottles. They can hold super cold or boiling beverages, and can even double as a hot water bottle for cold nights during camping. 

The Suistan line is made with 50 percent recycled material, so travelers can feel good about using these instead of plastic water bottles. The bottles are leakproof and have a wide mouth that’s easy to fill, and best of all, they’re dishwasher safe. 

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Apple Air Tag

Give a traveler peace of mind with an Apple Air Tag, which they can pack in their checked luggage and track all the way to baggage claim. The Air Tag is such a popular stocking stuffer that you might want to stock up with a 4-pack (so you can maybe keep one for yourself as well). 

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Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask

Know someone who needs total darkness in order to sleep? Gift them the Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask which provides blackout conditions even on brightly-lit planes or vacation rentals with sheer window curtains. Made from 100 percent mulberry silk, this mask will deliver comfort alongside a great night’s sleep.

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Goldbelly Gift Certificate

For that traveler who can’t stop raving about that bagel they had in New York City, a Goldbelly gift card will let them relieve a taste of past journeys. This gourmet food delivery company offers specialty foods from around the United States, so your giftee can choose from deep dish pizza from Chicago, Philly Cheesesteaks, seafood gumbo from New Orleans, and more.

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Travel USB Charger 

Become the most popular person in the airport with this travel USB charger that turns one outlet into seven. This small wall charger can charge USB devices, double prong plugs, and triple prong plugs simultaneously. It’s perfect for hotel rooms with only one outlet near the bed, cruises, or places that don’t have USB outlets. 

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Airplane Seatback Organizer

We’ve all seen fellow flyers use the airplane seatback pocket as a trash can, but there’s nowhere else to easily store your in-flight essentials—unless you have this seatback organizer. This organizer hangs from the existing seatback pocket and keeps everything you need easily accessible (and protected from the seatback pocket’s germs.) Multiple pockets (including a zippered one in the front for valuables) help keep everything easy to find.

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Clearstem You Are Sunshine Sunscreen

Good travel-sized sunscreen is a must-have item for every toiletry kit. Clearstem’s You Are Sunshine sunscreen is specifically formatted to be used on the face. Loaded with antioxidants and botanicals the tinted cream offers a blurring effect along with SPF 50+ that means travelers can skip packing foundation as well.  

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All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post The 11 Best Stocking Stuffers for Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Part of the city’s famously-laid back, partying reputation can be attributed to the fact that it’s one of the few destinations in America where you can legally drink on the street, which can contribute to a raucous atmospher that leaves some visitors to wonder, is New Orleans safe? 

According to a study conducted by finance site Money Geek, which analyzed the most recent crime statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), New Orleans ranks as the seventh most dangerous city in the country.

Don’t let this deter you from visiting New Orleans—the majority of crime that occurs in the city does not involve tourists. The main crimes tourists need to worry about are petty crimes, such as scams or pickpocketing.

Tips for Staying Safe in New Orleans

The New Orleans tourism board has issued a visitor safety guide, which recommends travelers  “use the same personal safety precautions and to stay vigilant as they would at home or in any metropolitan destination. This means following common sense safety tips, including:

• Traveling in groups and avoiding walking alone on unlit streets at night
• Paying attention to your surroundings
• Not flashing valuables or cash
• Never leaving your drink unattended 
• Not leaving personal belongings unattended

Whether you’re in a packed bar, watching an impromptu street performance, or participating in a festival, you’ll likely find yourself in a large crowd at some point during your New Orleans trip. Make sure to practice anti-pickpocket techniques in these situations, such as keeping your wallet in your front pocket, wearing a cross-body purse, and monitoring your bag. 

Common New Orleans Scams

There are a few (relatively harmless) notorious scams that you may encounter on a visit to New Orleans.

One popular one is a stranger stopping to tell you that they bet they can “guess where you got your shoes.” If you agree, they’ll answer “on your feet” and try to get you to give them money to settle the wager. The best response to this scam, and most others in the city, is to just ignore people who shout random things at you—avoid eye contact and keep walking, or offer a polite “no thank you.”

Another frequent scam that you may see, especially in tourist areas, are aggressive shoe shiners, who may try to shine your shoes (without your permission) and then harass you for money. Again, just say “no thank you” politely, and keep walking. 

Places to Avoid in New Orleans

New Orleans is an eclectic mix of neighborhoods. The most popular ones for tourists to visit are the French Quarter, Uptown (The Garden District), Treme, and the Arts/Warehouse District. All of these neighborhoods are very safe as long as you’re following the same common sense safety tips you’d practice in other cities. 

Central City and Hollygrove are the neighborhoods with the highest crime rates, according to GIS Geography, and so tourists may wish to avoid those areas or exercise extra caution when visiting.  

New Orleans Nightlife Safety Tips

New Orleans’ nightlife is famously raucous. Follow the same safety tips here that you would on a night out at home, including:

• Remaining aware of your surroundings
• Watching your drink at all times/not accepting drinks from strangers
• Taking a taxi or rideshare in lieu of walking in unfamiliar areas after dark
• Confirming the license plate and driver photo when being picked up by a rideshare
• Not drinking and driving
• Staying with your group

New Orleans Weather Risks

New Orleans is one of the rainiest cities in the country, experiencing an average of 62 inches per rain each year. The low-lying city has a tendency to flood, and it’s also vulnerable to hurricanes. 

Before traveling to New Orleans, sign up for NOLA Ready emergency alerts from the city. You can choose to be notified for emergency alerts (including severe weather or an active shooter) or seasonal info (with tips on how to prepare for hurricane season). Emergency alertss will be sent via text, email, phone call, or app. 

If you do find yourself in the city during an emergency weather situation, follow instructions from local officials and be prepared to evacuate if needed. 

The post Is New Orleans Safe? Neighborhoods to Avoid and Other Warnings  appeared first on SmarterTravel.