August is here, but there is still plenty of summer left. If you are planning to travel in the next few weeks (or in the future!), we want to ensure you, your belongings and your home stay safe. So today, we want to offer a helpful safety checklist to help.
Before You Leave
- Share your information:
- Give a friend or family member your travel itinerary and contact information.
- Secure your home:
- Lock all windows and doors.
- Set up light timers or smart plugs to make your space look occupied.
- Have someone check your home regularly and bring in any mail or packages. This ensures that if a problem arises while you are away, it’s caught quickly.
- Check travel advisories:
- Review government travel warnings. You can find this helpful tool online, which will help you to make informed decisions when travelling.
Personal Safety
- Pack a first-aid kit:
- Include bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, antihistamines, motion sickness medications, etc.
- Wash your hands frequently while travelling. Carry hand sanitizer as well, in case you don’t have access to a bathroom or sink. You don’t want to be sick for your vacation!
- Bring sun and heat protection:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brim hat, and refillable water bottle.
- Electrolyte tablets or hydration packs.
- Double-check your medications:
- Pack enough for the full trip plus extras in case of delays.
- Keep them in your carry-on for guaranteed access, even if your luggage is lost!
Transportation and Hotel Safety
- Verify transportation:
- Use official taxi/rideshare apps and avoid unmarked vehicles.
- Check the driver’s name, license plate, and rating.
- If using public transportation, ensure you review and understand routes and pay attention to where you are and where you are going at all times.
- Inspect your rental car:
- Check brakes, tires, and fuel levels before driving.
- Know local driving laws.
- Always have proper identification with you.
- Hotel safety check:
- Locate emergency exits and fire extinguishers.
- Use the room safe for valuables.
- Don’t open the door to unknown visitors.
- Use your hotel as a helpful resource. Ask workers for recommendations regarding restaurants, shopping, and safe areas to enjoy during your stay.
- Stay on well-lit, populated streets:
- Avoid alleys or quiet areas at night, especially when alone.
Money and Digital Safety
- When using credit cards:
- Always be sure to notify your bank of travel dates. This way your accounts won’t be flagged for unusual transactions.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive data:
- Use a mobile hotspot when logging into banking or personal accounts.
- Avoid accessing personal information when in public. Instead, do so when in the privacy of your hotel room.
- Split up your cash and credit cards:
- Don’t keep all your money in one place.
- Use hidden pockets or a money belt.
- Don’t show large amounts of cash when in public.
- Never leave your wallet or purse unattended.
Additional safety tips:
- Trust your instincts.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Eat and drink carefully.
For more detailed safety resources, you can find further travel information here.
Keep these tips in mind before and during your vacation to help you stay organized and prepared! The more educated you are about your destination, the safer you will be, which will result in a more enjoyable and memorable trip.