Hey keep cool
Alright babes, if you’re heading to Brazil , here’s the lowdown on how to stay safe, smart, and still have a great time. Bit of common sense, bit of street smarts — you know the vibe.
Tbh, Brazil’s not as dangerous as people make it out to be — it just gets a bit of a rep. Like any big country, there are areas you need to be more careful in, but it’s not some wild free-for-all. Most people you'll meet are warm, helpful, and just going about their day. It’s really just about being aware of your surroundings and not doing things you wouldn’t do back home — like waving your phone around at night or wandering into dodgy areas solo. If you’re planning to do stopovers or activities on your own, make sure you read the tips below properly — they’ll help you stay safe while still enjoying everything Brazil has to offer. Keep your head on, be smart, and you’ll have an amazing time.
💍 Keep it lowkey, yeah?
No need to go full glam. Leave the shiny bits at home — no big earrings, no chains out, and def no flashy watches. You don’t wanna be walking around looking like a walking target.
📱 Old phone? Take it.
If you’ve got an old iPhone or whatever knocking about in a drawer — use that for the trip. Way less stress if it gets lost or nicked. Leave your shiny new phone for when you're back.
👜 Bag choice is key
Crossbody bag with a zip. Or a bumbag you can keep in front of you. No open totes, and defo not one of those bags that doesn’t shut properly. Just take what you need for the day — keep the rest at your hotel.
🚖 Uber or nothing
Forget flagging down taxis — use Uber or 99 (same thing in Brazil). They're cheap and safer. And at night? No long walks. Even if it’s a 5-minute stroll, just get a ride, trust me.
🏙️ Know your ends
Some parts of cities like Rio or São Paulo flip real quick — one minute it’s touristy, next minute it’s dodgy. Double-check the area before booking your hotel or Airbnb, and ask locals (us;)) where’s cool and where’s not.
📵 Phone stays away
You don’t need your phone in your hand 24/7. Quick check on maps, take your pics, then stash it. Keep it in your bag, not your back pocket — this ain't Shoreditch, babes.
🌚 After dark rules
Stick to busy areas, go out in groups if you can, and don’t wander off on your own after drinks. Use your head. It's not about being scared — just being smart.
💬 Brush up on the basics
Bit of Portuguese goes a long way. You don’t need to be fluent — just learn a few phrases. Locals will love it, and it helps if you need directions or help.
💳 Sort your money out proper
Get yourself a Wise or Revolut card. Way easier than dealing with your usual bank abroad, and you’ll save money on exchange rates. Plus, if you lose it, it’s not your main account gone.
🏧 ATM game strong
Only use ATMs inside malls, banks, or hotels. Daytime only. Nighttime cash runs? Big no.
🎊 Big events = extra care
If you’re hitting Carnival or any big beach parties — don’t take loads with you. Just enough for drinks and a cab back. And keep it zipped up and in front of you.
🌴 Jungle bits? Don’t freestyle it
If you’re going Amazon or jungle exploring, book a proper guide. No solo adventures. Pack bug spray, long sleeves, and listen to the locals — they know what’s what.
🚨 Just in case numbers
Police: 190
Ambulance: 192
Fire: 193 Save them in your phone, just in case. Also, know where your embassy is — better safe than sorry.