Is Travelling to UK Safe?
A Complete Guide to Keep Yourself Safe
The United Kingdom is considered one of the safest places for traveling. It is among the world’s best and most famous destinations for tourists from different corners of the world. Its best tourist spots are relatively close together compared to other large countries like the US, Australia, and Canada. Though the UK is not very large in size, the culture and rich history of this amazing country make it one of the most popular tourist attractions. The natural beauty of the UK counties and the vibrant and colorful sceneries of cities are unparalleled.
Now, if you are planning to travel to the UK, one question might come knocking at your head: ‘Is the UK safe for traveling?’ We will try to find the answer to this question before you book your ticket for the UK.
Though the UK is considered one of the safest places for traveling, you still need to know a few things about the safety and security situation in the UK before traveling.
The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates terrorism and national emergency threat level changes online and through local media. The national terrorism and national emergency threat level is currently 3 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A separate threat level for Northern Ireland is currently 4 (“severe”) on a scale of 5.
The Public Alert System on Terrorism and National Emergency Threat Level is always updated and published online and in local media by the UK Government. The National Terrorism and National Emergency Threat Level is substantial, which is 3 on a scale of 5. For Northern Ireland, the threat level is severe, which is 4 on a scale of 5. Visit for updated threat levels: UK Government Terrorism and National Emergency Threat Levels.
Risk of Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorist attacks in the UK in recent months. So, citizens of the US and Canada are advised to “exercise a high degree of caution” while traveling to the UK by their government. Be cautious and very careful while you are in:
- Government Buildings
- Places of Worship
- Schools
- Airports
- Bus Stands
- Train and Metro Stations
- Tourist Spots
- Restaurants and Bars
- Hotels
Be aware of your surroundings if you are attending:
- Religious Events
- Sports Events
- Political Events
- Election Celebration Events
Health
The medical services of the United Kingdom are very good, so you don’t need to worry about it. You just need to make sure of a few things before your travel:
- Your vaccinations are up to date.
- There is no health alert in the UK.
- Stay up to date about the nearby healthcare centers and hospitals.
Civil Unrest
You should be careful about civil unrest and political protests and other activities while traveling because they can become violent at any time.
- Keep yourself updated.
- Follow the local media.
- Follow the instructions of the locals.
- Avoid protests and large groups of people.
Crime
Always be aware of the below-mentioned crimes because they are common in some areas of the UK:
Pickpocketing, Mugging, and Mobile Theft: Always be careful about these petty crimes while in crowded places, bars and restaurants, quiet places, metro stations, underground pedestrian walkways, and airports. You should be extra careful about your surroundings during nighttime.
Card Fraud: Be careful about card fraud as well. Try to use ATM booths in public areas or inside banks. Don’t let others see your PIN number. Be very careful while letting others handle your cards. Always keep transaction records and statements.
Violent Crimes: Violent crimes like mugging and knife incidents sometimes occur in big cities, so be extra cautious. Try to take Uber and other online ride-sharing services instead of local taxis. Don’t keep large sums of money with you. Keep your passport and other necessary items safe. Don’t leave your belongings unattended.
Spiked Foods and Drinks: Don’t accept food from strangers. Never leave your food in the care of strangers; it might be dangerous. It could put you at risk of robbery and sexual assault. Cigarettes, gum, beverages, and food offered by strangers could contain drugs. So NEVER ACCEPT.
Cybercrime: Don’t use Wi-Fi from public networks; this could put you at risk of potential cyber-attacks. Be extra cautious while meeting people you met online. Try to avoid buying something from websites you don’t know well.
Adventure
- Hiking and biking in unknown areas could be dangerous for you.
- There are risks of avalanches in Scotland’s mountain areas. Make sure you check the forecast before hiking.
Check This Website: https://www.sais.gov.uk
- Never go hiking or biking alone in remote areas.
- Keep your family updated about where you are going and when you are going.
- Buy travel insurance.
Road Safety
Vehicles drive on the left in the UK. Pedestrians should be cautious when crossing a road because traffic comes from the opposite direction in the UK than it does in the US, Canada, and many other countries. Also, make sure you know the direction from which the traffic is coming while crossing a one-way road.
Law
Always be respectful of local laws. Carrying, possessing, and trafficking illegal drugs are serious crimes in the UK. Keep this in mind to ensure your safe and sound travel.
Contact Numbers for Emergency Services:
- Police: 999
- Medical Emergencies: 999
- Fire and Rescue Services: 999