When travelling, especially in unfamiliar places, we often rely heavily on our mobile phones for everything—directions, hotel bookings, emergency contacts and more. But what if your phone runs out of battery, gets lost or you’re somewhere with no signal? In such moments, having key information on paper can be a real lifesaver. It’s an old-fashioned habit, perhaps—but one that offers modern peace of mind.
One of the easiest things you can do is simply pick up a business card from your hotel’s front desk. It usually includes the name, address, phone number and sometimes even a small map—perfect for showing to a taxi driver or asking locals for help if you’re lost. Alternatively, or in addition, jot down the following details yourself on a slip of paper:
- Hotel Name or Nearby Landmark
- Hotel Address
- Hotel Contact Number
- Emergency Number (local or hotel-specific)
- Your Check-in and Check-out Dates
- Contact Number of a Close Friend or Family Member
Keep this with you—in your wallet, day bag or passport holder. Should anything go wrong, you’ll have everything you need to find your way back or get in touch with someone who can help.
In a world so dependent on technology, a simple piece of paper—or a humble business card—can be a travel companion you didn’t know you needed. Sometimes, analogue solutions are the most reliable ones.
Immigration sometimes ask for this information so if you have it easily to hand, it saves a lot of anxious fumbling around.
