People traveling to Switzerland should still take precautions when going around the different cities. Violent crimes are quite rare in the country but there are still pickpockets ready to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists, especially in heavy tourist spots such as public transportation sites and parks. This is especially true during the peak winter and summer season. There is a very slim chance of terrorist activity in the country, although security is tight in Geneva as it is the headquarters of the United Nations.

Taking public transportation is easy. The buses and trains are on time and quite reliable so you shouldn’t have a problem getting around. However, you should be mindful of purse snatchers and pickpockets that often frequent airports, train stations and bus stations.

If taking a train to and from Switzerland or around Geneva and Zurich, be especially mindful of your belongings. Be sure to secure your things especially if you will sleep, since many thieves can steal luggage and valuable luggage contents during train rides. Even locked compartments may not deter thieves. Make sure your luggage is visible to you at all times. You may use cable ties to secure the zippers or use the cable ties to secure a number of luggage pieces together especially if you have more than one. If you need to have police assistance, you can dial 117 for the police and 144 for emergency medical assistance.

If you’ll be out sightseeing, it is highly recommended that you carry some personal identification with you at all times. It is possible to be questioned by Swiss police and you need to be able to present some ID, either a driver’s license or your passport. Keep your ID and your cash and credit cards secure with you at all times. Also remember that in many establishments, the credit card receipt will print your entire credit card number. Keep your duplicate copies with you securely. Using a money belt is a good idea.

Also, before you start taking pictures, check and see if there are any signs that prohibit picture taking as some areas are prohibited. If you want to enjoy some of the wines and beers of the region, just make sure you don’t drive if your blood alcohol level is above 0.05 percent. Otherwise, you will be subject to very strict fines and sometimes even jail time for higher levels of blood alcohol content. Switzerland also imposes very strict penalties for drug users and drug carriers and distributors.

Switzerland is one of the cleanest nations in the world. The water is potable and very refreshing as it comes from the mountains. Also, there is a low rate of infectious diseases.

If you are taking prescription medication, you should take it with you along with a copy of the prescription. Bring only what you need for the duration of your trip. While it is possible to buy prescription drugs in other countries, it is better that you come prepared so you don’t have to worry about your health maintenance during your vacation or trip.

One of the most important Switzerland travel safety tips to keep in mind is to purchase travel insurance before heading out to the country. Generally speaking, many medical health insurance companies do not extend coverage for services rendered outside of the United States. There are many excellent clinics, hospitals and health care centers around the country wherein you can get medical services for your emergency medical needs. These need to be paid for up front and you need to coordinate with your insurance provider about reimbursement when you get back. It’s best to pay with your credit card and keep all your receipts so you can file for a reimbursement as soon as you get home. Special travel insurance must be purchased that can cover you for the entire duration of your trip.

Mountain search and rescue insurance is especially useful if you plan to hike or ski in the region. This way, if there is an emergency or you get lost up in the mountains, you will have a way for paying for the cost of the search and rescue operations which can easily run up to $25,000 in fees and expenses. If you come to Switzerland without mountain search and rescue insurance, don’t worry. This can be inexpensively purchased at any Swiss post office. It’s also a good idea to wear a rescue bracelet locator if you plan to ski, so that rescue teams can easily find you in case of an avalanche or mishap on the slopes.

These are just some of the most useful and practical Switzerland travel safety tips to keep in mind. Following these travel safety tips will help ensure that your stay in Switzerland will be safe and hassle fee. Use our Travel Guide Switzerland handbook whenever you need to look up something about Switzerland or if you need a handy reference during your trip.