Dean Zipes on How To Stay Safe While You Travel

Traveling is a great way to unwind; it provides a way to escape the stresses of your everyday routine and allows you to refocus. Yet, even with significant benefits, when you travel alone, you should still be careful. While technology is an essential and useful tool, many should be wary of its uses when traveling. You need to stay safe in the technological world that we are in, especially when your plans take you outside of your native country. These tips can help keep you safe so that you can enjoy your time away.

Limit Use Of Public WiFi
If you need to access sensitive data while you're away, it's safer to set up your own WiFi hotspot. If your cell phone service provider doesn't offer this feature, carry a portable router with you and purchase a local SIM card to make the connection. Do not use the WiFi at an airport, store, or any other location. Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your personal information.

Protect Your Phones
Phone theft is a growing problem, so you should activate the password protection feature on your phone the moment you start your journey. Additionally, think about downloading a tracking app. For example, iPhones have a built in app called Find My iPhone that allows users to lock the phone, erase data, and locate it. By taking these two steps, you'll prevent others from accessing your phone and you'll locate a lost or stolen device more quickly.

Postpone Sharing Vacation Plans Online
Most people share vacation photos on social media while they're away. While you want to share images of your incredible journey, this lets burglars know that you're away. An empty house makes your home a much more tempting target. Next time you go on a trip, wait until you get home to share the experience with your loved ones.

Check for Travel Warnings
The U.S. Department of State makes safe travel a little easier by sharing warnings. You will get a heads up for potential hazards like natural disasters, political instability, or other factors that might urge you to adjust your travel plans. Even when you are confident the warnings won't cause you to change your plans, it's a good idea to be aware of any issues ahead of time so that you can prepare.

Lock Up Valuables
A lock on a suitcase or backpack isn't much of a deterrent, especially if the luggage is fabric. It's best to keep valuables close by or on your person en route to your destination. Whenever possible, make use of safes and padlocked lockers to keep your valuables protected in hotels or other lodgings.

Always Buy Travel Insurance
The cost of travel insurance is just a small percentage of your total vacation cost, and the benefits it provides are well worth it. From trip cancellation reimbursement to providing coverage for medical treatment abroad, travel insurance covers a broad range of needs. When you purchase this, you prepare yourself for the worst.

You can search online for more safety tips to employ as you travel. From natural disasters to criminal activity, many things could go wrong on your journey. By taking the time to prepare and travel more safely, you'll be better protected against events that could derail your vacation plans.

To learn more about Dean Zipes please visit DeanZipes.com.

Dean Zipes is currently enrolled as a law student in Florida. When he isn't busy with classes or studying, he volunteers in his community and watches baseball.