Look for established operators with proper licensing (IATA, TAAI, or TAFI membership in India), verified reviews across multiple platforms, and transparent business practices. Check if they have physical offices, proper documentation, and clear cancellation policies. Request references from past travelers and verify their social media presence for consistency and customer interactions.

Research destination-specific safety concerns and cultural norms before departure. Register with the Indian embassy through the Madad portal. Keep digital and physical copies of important documents separate. Avoid displaying valuables, use hotel safes, and invest in anti-theft bags. Share your itinerary with family and enable location sharing on your phone. Trust your instincts in unfamiliar situations.

Use a combination of payment methods (cash, credit cards, travel cards) and never keep all funds in one place. Inform your bank about travel dates to prevent suspicious transaction blocks. Use ATMs attached to banks in well-lit areas. Keep emergency funds separate from daily spending money. Be cautious of card skimming at unfamiliar terminals and always monitor transaction alerts.

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that specifically includes medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and third-party liability. Check for COVID-19 coverage and destination-specific requirements. Higher coverage limits (at least $100,000 for medical) are recommended for countries with expensive healthcare like the US. Keep digital and physical copies of your policy and emergency contact numbers.

Use official transportation services – prebook airport transfers when possible. For taxis, use licensed operators or recognized ride-sharing apps. Research typical costs beforehand to avoid overcharging. In public transport, stay alert in crowded areas where pickpocketing is common. For rental vehicles, thoroughly document existing damage and understand local driving regulations before setting off