Summertime is almost here, which means the kids will be out of school and summer vacation plans will be falling into place. Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it is important to remember that summer can also be one of the riskiest travel times of the year. It’s important that you not only arrive to your destination safely, but that you stay aware during your entire trip so you and your family can stay safe as well as avoid any scams or mishaps. We wanted to provide you with some summer travel safety tips to ensure that your summer travels run smoothly and are as enjoyable as possible!
Research Your Destination
Before you make any set travel plans it is important to thoroughly research the destination you are interested in. Make sure you know the surrounding area and anything that might be beneficial to your safety and health such as weather conditions, immunizations you may need, and if the local water and food is safe to consume.
Share Your Plans
Before embarking on your summer vacation, always let someone who you are close with such as a family member or friend know exactly where you are traveling to, and the amount of time you will be gone for. It is also important that you notify your postal service as well as a neighbor so that they do not suspect anything has happened and also so that they can notify you if anything looks suspicious while you’re away.
Lock Your Luggage
While stolen baggage is a very common travel crime, many people often do not think of having someone steal from their bags, take what they please and leave the rest behind, and not realizing that anything has been taken until reaching their destination.. This happens frequently if bags are left unattended, so take the extra safety precaution and purchase a baggage lock to ensure no one will mess with any of your personal items along the way.
Be Aware of Crime
Summer is one of the most popular times of the year for travel scams to occur. Scam artists often take advantage of the care free, laid back attitude that travelers seem to have during the summer months. Always keep your purse, wallet, and any other valuables in your sight. Never keep all of your money in one spot, and do not trust anyone that that you meet along the way whether they seem as if they are trying to help you or not.
Use Travel Technology
In this day in age we are extremely lucky to have access to several different types of technologies that can help and protect us. There have been several mobile apps designed to ensure safe and easy travels such as different GPS and monitoring systems. There are also apps that allow you to silently contact emergency help if you are in a dangerous situation. You may never have to use these during your trip, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry while traveling!
Do you have any summer safety travel tips to share? Let us know!