Traveling abroad is fun and exciting, especially if it’s a trip you’ve been planning for a long time. There is much to think about, luggage, passport, tickets, and other essentials that you may need while traveling and exploring. However, preparing can be so stressful that you forget the most important thing: protecting yourself and your home while traveling. If you have access to a home security system from a company like Black Hat Security, make sure it’s functioning correctly, and follow the tips below, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
SECURE YOUR HOME
Enable and test your home security system. Make sure that your motion sensors are on and working, your cameras are all pointing in the directions they need to be, all parts are functioning properly, and you have your app downloaded.
SECURE YOUR DOCUMENTS
It is best to keep all of your important documents together such as a visa, passport, any identifications you may need with you, etc. Use a billfold or a folder, but make sure it’s in a place only you can get to. Do the same with your credit and debit cards if you are taking them with you. Make photocopies of each item and keep these in a separate place.
INFORM YOUR CREDIT CARD COMPANY AND BANK
If you are taking your credit or debit cards with you, be sure to call your providers in advance to inform them that you will be traveling abroad. The last thing you need to happen is to be stuck in an unknown country with no funds available to you.
DON’T ANNOUNCE YOUR DEPARTURE
It has been shown time and again that many home robberies occur when people are on vacation. Not publicizing decreases your chances of this happening while you’re traveling abroad. If you’re a social media fan, like many are, and must announce your departure, don’t add your dates of travel. It is better to be safe than sorry later on.
UPDATE ALL OF YOUR IMPORTANT CONTACTS
Carrying a list of names and numbers of important contacts with you at all times can ensure that they are contacted first in case of an emergency. Most cell phones have an ICE feature where you can even add those contacts directly. You’d want your family members and friends to know where you are should an emergency abroad happen. This will allow officials to contact these people first.
SET UP AN INTERNATIONAL DATA AND CALLING PLAN
Understand that you can purchase a prepaid mobile phone while in any country you are visiting. This is a money saver for you, however, if you do decide to bring your personal phone with you, be sure to contact your cell phone provider. Setting up an international data and calling plan will save you hundreds of dollars while you are overseas.
ACTIVATE PIN NUMBERS OR PATTERNS ON ALL DEVICES
When traveling, you’ll never know what situation you may run into. If you are bringing multiple devices with you, it is imperative to activate and/or change pin numbers and patterns on all of your devices. Adding this extra bit of security will definitely be a benefit for you should an emergency happen.
Once you’re all planned, packed and ready to go, knowing that your home, documents, and devices are all protected, you’ll be able to enjoy your traveling even more. Happy Travels!
