Top 5 Ways to Stay Safe During Summer Travels

Summer is upon us and everyone is turning out in droves at the beaches, parks and tourist attractions.  Whether you are traveling to a local beach, across the country, or around the world, it might be easy to neglect your safety because of all the distractions.  But we want you to be safe! Here are the top five ways to stay safe during your summer travels and beyond.

Use the Right Luggage Equipment

Using the right luggage equipment can prevent many different mishaps, but requires a little planning ahead.  If you must bring a laptop and know that you’ll use public transportation such as buses or trolleys, consider buying a messenger-style laptop bag and keep it close by your side the enter time.  Too often are laptops stolen because the victim leaves the laptop bag on the chair next to them, thus prone to being taken by passing thieves.  If you are flying by plane, keep a small carry-on bag that you won’t need to stash in the overhead, and keep excess bags, backpacks and other luggage to a minimum.

Also, make sure you are using luggage that is easy to carry, or that won’t cause any sort of back (or other) injury. You want to be able to enjoy your trip, not spend it in pain!

Call Your Bank

Before traveling to another country, or even another state, you should definitely give your bank a call and inform them of your plans.  With all the identity theft that seems to be running rampant these days, your bank might freeze all of your assets if they see a large amount of money spent in a foreign location. Not the best situation to be in if you are away from home! Believe me on this one – I’ve learned my lesson . . . unfortunately the hard way.

Listen to your Travel Agent or Tour Guide

This is especially true if you are going somewhere that is known for “danger,” such as Jamaica or Mexico.  If your travel agent or tour guide tells you to stay within the resort at all times and only leave to visit designated areas, please listen to him or her.  Oftentimes, these countries have several areas with a high crime rate, and the travel agent is warning you to protect you.  If they specifically mention a few areas to avoid at all costs, don’t do the opposite and explore that area! Even if you’re a fairly savvy traveler and like the thrill of “adventure,” your safety is never guaranteed.  

Pack Lightly

This tip applies to travelers of any sort: beach goers, cross-country explorers and worldwide travelers should always travel light.  Not only will it save you a bundle at the airport by avoiding extra bag fees, but it will also make it easy to keep everything close and organized, and lessens the chances of losing an item or forgetting it at the hotel.  Only bring what you need, not what you want. (I’m still working on this one!).

Consider Insurance

Travel insurance is a bit like extended warranties and equipment insurance for electronics products, or any other product for that matter.  You tend to ask yourself “Do I really need this?” It may always seem like you won’t actually use it, but the peace of mind can be helpful.  Certain credit cards include insurance against accidents, lost items or damage while you are traveling.  You should consider the insurance option if you are staying for an extended period of time, or if you are bringing valuable items with you such as your laptop or camera.  

These tips can entail a bit of work and planning, for certain. But wouldn’t you rather be prepared and have an issue-free trip?