Taking a taxi in a foreign country can feel like a leap of faith. Different customs, unfamiliar streets, language barriers, and inconsistent regulation all contribute to an environment where travelers — especially solo travelers — can find themselves vulnerable. Here is how to stay safe, stay smart, and arrive at your destination without incident.
Before You Get In
Prepare in advance how you will travel to your lodging from the airport. If jet lag is a factor or you are traveling late at night to a high-crime area, arrange an airport pick-up from your hotel, business contacts, or a reputable transportation firm.
In most airports, use official taxi-cab services to avoid unlicensed or unregulated vehicles. Look for clearly marked taxi stands, uniformed dispatchers, or airport-sanctioned ride services.
Ideally, have a contact number for the driver and request they only use a sign with your first name and last initial — avoid advertising your full name to the entire arrivals hall.
Research prior to traveling the local customs on taxi services regarding meter vs. agreed-upon fare and tipping. Have the local currency ready with small bills so you are not flashing large denominations or waiting for change in an uncomfortable situation.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
If the taxi is in poor condition, take another one. Door handles, window controls, and door locks should all work properly. A vehicle in disrepair may signal a driver who is not operating through legitimate channels.
Never get in a taxi that has an occupant in either the front passenger or rear seats, and do not allow extra passengers to be picked up during your ride. If a driver insists on picking up additional passengers, ask to be let out and find another vehicle.
Once You Are Inside
Sit in the back seat, behind the driver rather than diagonally from the driver. This position gives you the widest field of vision, the most distance from the driver, and direct access to a rear door.
Test door locks while the door is still open to prevent being trapped inside via the child-safety lock. If the door does not open from the inside, do not get in.
Know where you are going ahead of time and approximately how long it will take to get there. With smartphones, you can map the most likely route and track your movements in real time. If the driver deviates significantly from the expected route, speak up immediately or ask to be let out.
Communicate Your Journey
Avoid traveling alone if possible, especially at night. Make a call to a friend or family member letting them know where you are, where you are going, and in what taxi — including the taxi company, vehicle number, and the driver's license information displayed on the dashboard.
The WanderSafe app makes this even easier. Share your real-time location with trusted contacts so they can follow your journey live. If anything feels wrong, a single tap sends an instant SOS with your precise GPS coordinates — no phone call required, no address to recite, no language barrier to overcome.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off — the driver is behaving erratically, the route seems wrong, or you simply feel uncomfortable — trust that feeling. Ask to be dropped off at the nearest well-lit, populated area. Your safety always takes priority over politeness.
As WanderSafe Safety Expert Thomas Pecora advises: "If a situation feels wrong, leave. You can always apologize later for being cautious. You cannot undo what happens when you ignore your instincts."
Quick Reference Checklist
- Use official taxi stands or pre-arranged reputable services - Have the driver's name and vehicle details before getting in - Share your journey details with a trusted contact - Sit in the back seat, behind the driver - Test door locks before closing the door - Track your route on your phone - Keep local currency in small denominations - Never allow additional passengers - Trust your instincts — leave if something feels wrong - Keep the WanderSafe app ready for instant SOS
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