When you’re going on vacation, there are a handful of tips and tricks you need to know to keep yourself safe. To make sure you are fully prepared for your journey, keep these tips in mind whenever you go on vacation.
Research your destination thoroughly
Before you travel anywhere, it’s best to thoroughly research your destination. Understanding local laws and customs can help make sure you don’t accidentally break any rules or violate any safety concerns.
Your research may also show you if any areas are unsafe, letting you avoid them and focus on less risky attractions and locations. For instance, certain beaches may have strong currents, or certain streets might have higher crime rates.
If you’re not sure where to look, you can always utilize reputable resources like the U.S Department of State’s travel advisories, which will inform you about current risks.
Secure your personal belongings
The next most important thing to remember is to protect your belongings. Pickpockets and thieves can be rife while you’re on vacation, which is why you must remain vigilant. We recommend using anti-theft bags, as these can keep your items safe and secure. You may also want to use RFID-blocked wallets or card holders, since some pickpockets will use card readers to steal your money and card data through your clothes.
You should also avoid displaying any expensive items, especially in densely crowded areas, as this can make you a target.
Stay connected and informed
Another way to keep yourself safe is to stay in frequent contact with a friend or family member. Sharing your itinerary and having regular check-ins will make sure that someone always knows where you are, so if an issue does occur, they can call for help on your behalf.
You might also want to enable location sharing or register your vacation with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Using STEP can give you real-time updates and assistance from the U.S. embassy should you need it.
Use technology wisely
You also have to watch out for data thieves, especially if you’re connecting to public WiFi networks. Some digital criminals will set up WiFi networks that appear genuine, but exist to steal all your data, including usernames and passwords. If you access your emails or bank information, they will also receive a copy.
If you want to keep all your data safe and secure, we recommend using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This encrypts all your data and uses another server elsewhere in the world to browse for you, keeping everything you view completely secure.
If you want to use a VPN, there are several methods you can choose from. One option is to install a VPN Chrome extension on your browser. Alternatively, you can download VPN programs or apps that ensure all your device’s online traffic goes through the VPN.
