Here are five of the weirdest travel tips, and whether you should take heed of them on your next trip.

1. Leave your car unlocked.

Most of us would consider this completely mad advice, but there’s actually quite a bit of evidence to show this titbit has solid standing. Most car repairs in holiday destinations are actually the replacement of smashed windows. Leaving your car empty of anything you deem valuable and unlocked at night means thieves can clearly see that you have nothing worth stealing in your car – without breaking in.

Photo by Tim Lucas

2. Wear a fake wedding ring.

Women travellers are frequently given this advice when heading to countries where they could be targeted by unwanted suitors. Although some aren’t happy with lying, there’s no doubt that a fake wedding band will help avoid or get out of difficult situations.

3. Take allergy medication on the plane with you.

If you’re allergic to cats, you might be used to taking your medication when visiting a friend with the little furballs, but why would you need it on a plane? Even if your flight isn’t one transporting animals in its hold, cat owners will most likely be carrying some hair from their pets on their clothes. Take into account the recycled air in the cabin, and you’ll be glad your meds aren’t in your checked-in bag when you’re half way to your luxury chalets in Verbier.

Photo by kelly

4. Don’t eat street food.

Although hygiene standards where you’re travelling may not be the same as home, and food poisoning is a risk, don’t let this stop you enjoying the culinary delights. Street foods in many places are some of the most delicious and cheap dishes you can buy. Just use your common sense – if the stand looks like it hasn’t ever been cleaned, or the vendor looks ill, move on to the next one.

5. No PDA.

In certain countries, in particular the UAE, it’s not only illegal to have relations in public, but also to hug, hold hands and kiss. Any advice like this should not be taken lightly – there have been many tourists thrown in jail for these kinds of offences, so make sure you save it for the bedroom.

Photo by Marco

What’s the strangest piece of travel advice you’ve been given? Did you act on it? Let us know in the comments!

Gavin Harvey is a fitness fanatic and avid traveller who has been given some very odd advice in the past. He currently writes for Dynamic Lives with travel advice.

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