Eight Ways to Help Ensure Safe Travels

Whether running of for some summer fun with the family or escaping the cold by jetting off to tropical destinations, you'll want to make sure that your trip is remembered for the right reasons. Always keep yourself and your family safe with these travel tips:

If this Olympics is anything like Sochi in 2014, athletes will be joined by over 3,000 officials and 340,000 ticketed spectators, many of whom traveled great distances to watch the festivities and cheer on their country's best.

Even if you don't have the opportunity to travel to South Korea for the Olympics, you may travel to other destinations this year. If so, keep yourself and your family safe, with these travel safety tips:

Keep your documents to yourself

 

Keep your important documents on your person at all times while traveling. Scan your passport, driver's license, visa, and itinerary before you go, store them in a secure location, and leave a copy with a friend or family member.

Rent a car only if you're familiar with the area

 

Otherwise, use only registered taxis. Understand your car insurance policy and the country's requirements.

Minimize your exposure to crowds

 

This may be nearly impossible for those at the Olympic games, but for the rest of us, it is wise to minimize the amount of time you spend in lines, public shops, and crowded areas like tourist attractions and public transportation.

Leave your valuables at home

 

You probably don't need your fine jewelry and watches with you when you're traveling. It may be better to leave them at home, so you don't risk losing them or becoming a target for criminals.

Wait to post photos or updates on social media

 

Posting updates while you're traveling will just alert criminals back home that you're not around (and your home may be easier to access). Keep those photos and other posts for when you get home.

Stay in smaller, boutique hotels instead of large ones

 

Large marquee hotels can be more conspicuous. Trying to blend in is your best bet, and smaller establishments will allow you to do that better. Also, make sure you don't discuss your plans with hotel staff or other guests you don't know.

Use ATMs in secure locations only

 

Be sure to call your credit card providers before you go, to make sure you can use your cards when you travel. And, plan ahead so you know how much money you'll need – so you don't end up taking too much.

Make sure you have the insurance you need

 

You may need anything from auto insurance and personal liability, if case you get in an accident when driving a rental car, to identity theft resolution services, if you misplace your passport or credit card. Regardless, it is wise to go over your insurance coverage with your agent before you travel, to make sure you're fully protected if something happens.

 

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