First trip to meet someone in person: what's on your safety checklist?

Staff conversation starter from the Site Team.

Traveling to meet someone you've been talking to online is exciting, and a bit of planning makes it safer and less stressful for both of you. This thread is for building a practical checklist together.

Some starting points: video call several times before booking so you know the person is who they say they are; book and pay for your own flights and accommodation; share your itinerary and your match's name and profile with a friend or family member; meet first in a public place; keep your passport, cards and some emergency cash secure; and check your government's travel advisory and the local emergency number before you go. Travel insurance and a local SIM or eSIM are worth considering too.

Remember it can be a big moment for the other person as well, so respecting their comfort and boundaries matters just as much as your own safety.

Over to you: What would you add to this checklist? What questions do you have about planning a first trip to meet someone in person?