Travel Safety With TrovaTrip

Traveling with TrovaTrip is an opportunity to explore new cultures, connect with your community, and create lifelong memories. With all the incredible experiences that come with international travel, it's also important to understand the risks that naturally arise when you're far from home.

Whether you’re trekking through the Andes, exploring vibrant cities, or sailing along the coast, your safety is our top priority. While our Operators and Local Guides work hard to ensure a safe and seamless experience, there are steps you can take to stay informed and prepared throughout your adventure.

Understanding Travel Risks

When you explore with Trova, you may encounter different standards, environments, and challenges than you’re used to at home. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Infrastructure varies by country. Transportation systems, medical facilities, accessibility laws/requirements, and emergency services may not operate to the same standards you’re accustomed to.
• Adventure activities like hiking, rafting, or wildlife excursions often take place in remote areas with limited access to immediate support.
• Local laws and regulations can differ significantly from your home country.
• Natural events like storms or earthquakes can occur anywhere, and remote locations may make recovery or evacuation more complex.
• Pickpocketing and scams exist worldwide. While most locals are kind and welcoming, there may be individuals who target tourists.

Our goal is to help you travel smarter, feel empowered, and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Below are tips and resources to keep you safe before and during your travels.

Before You Go

A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a smooth journey. Here’s what we recommend:

• Make copies of your travel documents. Print and email copies of your passport, insurance, and IDs to yourself in case they’re lost or stolen.
• Register your trip with your government’s embassy or consulate. This helps them contact or locate you in case of an emergency abroad.
• Purchase travel insurance. It’s essential to protect yourself from the unexpected—whether it’s a flight delay, injury, or lost luggage.
• Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.
• Visit a medical professional well in advance. Depending on your destination, you may need vaccinations or preventative medication prior to traveling.

Health & Medical Considerations

Our trips venture into some of the world’s most awe-inspiring—and sometimes remote—places. That can mean exposure to unfamiliar illnesses or environments. To stay healthy on the road:

• Consult your healthcare provider to learn about recommended vaccinations or medications.
• Pack essential medications and a small first aid kit for personal use.
• If you have any allergies, medical conditions that Trova and our Operating partners should be aware of, or if you will require special assistance, please be sure to input this information into your Traveler Portal. 

Transportation Tips

You’ll experience a variety of transportation methods—from planes to buses to boats. Stay alert and use caution across all forms of travel:

Air Travel

• Pay attention to safety briefings and know where the exits are.
• Keep your seatbelt fastened at all times during the flight.
• Not all international airlines allow alcoholic beverages, so be sure to check the laws and regulations of the airline you are traveling with.
  • If you do order drinks, consume alcohol in moderation—its effects are stronger at high altitudes.

Ground Transport

• Always keep your belongings close, especially on buses or trains.
• Use a lock on your daypack and avoid placing valuables in outer pockets.
  Be cautious when entering/exiting vehicles and stay aware of your surroundings.

Taxis & Rideshares

• Use official taxi stands or rideshare apps when possible.
  • You can also ask your hotel to arrange taxis/transportation for you as they often have trusted drivers to recommend.
• Verify the driver’s ID or registration before getting in.
• Keep your bags close and exit quickly if you feel unsafe.

Boats & Watercraft

• Always wear a life jacket if one is provided.
  Hold onto railings when moving about.
• Wear reef-friendly sunscreen and UV-protective clothing like hats or rash guards.
• If you know you get seasick, take medication ahead of time.

Staying Safe at Your Accommodation

Hotels, guesthouses, and lodges are often safe, comfortable places to rest—but theft or accidents can still happen anywhere. Here's how to stay vigilant:

• Stay with your luggage until it’s securely stored.
• Use the safe in your room for valuables.
• Lock doors and windows and use a security latch when inside.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and hotel phone instructions.
• Place your room key in the same place every time to avoid misplacing it.

Out & About

Exploring new cities and towns is one of the best parts of travel! Here’s how to experience it safely:

1. Dress to blend in and avoid flashing valuables or cash.
2. Consult maps discreetly, and if you need help, ask someone in uniform or working at a business.
3. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.
4. Wear your daypack or purse across your body with closures facing inward.
5. Only carry what you need for the day—leave passports and valuables in the hotel safe.
6. Use ATMs in well-trafficked areas and shield your PIN.
7. Take a hotel card or write down the address so you can always return safely.
8. Be cautious when approached by strangers with unsolicited help or offers.
9. Travel in groups when possible—there’s safety in numbers.
10. Keep your phone charged (we always recommend bringing a portable battery pack for extra juice!) and location services on in case you need directions or assistance.

Optional Activities

Your itinerary will include many exciting activities, and you’ll also have some free time to explore on your own. If you decide to book an activity outside of what’s included on your itinerary, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choose reputable providers with good reviews.
• Ask about their safety protocols, insurance, and experience.
• Make sure there’s an emergency plan and trained guides—especially if you’re booking water or adventure sports.

High Altitude Awareness

Some Trova Trips operate at high elevations, where Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath. In rare cases, this can progress to life-threatening conditions like HAPE or HACE.

Before traveling to high altitudes:

• Talk to your doctor—especially if you have preexisting conditions.
• Bring altitude medications if recommended.
• Plan to rest on arrival and limit physical activity on day one.

To help prevent altitude sickness:

• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeine.
• Eat light meals and get good sleep.
• Do not ascend further if symptoms worsen—descend immediately if serious symptoms occur.

Your Safety is Our Priority

At TrovaTrip, we believe travel changes lives—and staying safe while doing so makes the experience that much better. Use common sense, trust your instincts, and take precautions just as you would at home. Trova, your Local Guide, and Operator are there to support you every step of the way.

So pack smart, stay alert, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!