Safety is crucial to enjoying a rewarding family travel experience. Keep safety measures in mind as you plan your next adventure. It all starts before you even leave your home. Here I list my best holiday travel safety tips. Plus, I added a few fun travel safety gadgets to consider as you plan your next adventure.

Admittedly, I choose our family travel destinations based on how safe a place is said to be. However, stuff can happen wherever you go. So it is vital to plan ahead of time how to keep yourself and your family safe. There are precautions you can take, but the best way to stay safe is to do your research, be smart, and be aware.

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Affiliate Disclosure: There are affiliate links throughout this post. This means if you click on a link and purchase a product through that link, then I will receive a small commission for the referral. And that is kinda cool.

Holiday Travel Safety Tips: Start Before You Leave for Vacation.

1) Start with preparing your home before you leave.

Ensure that your alarm system is working, including the cameras. Notify a trusted neighbor or a friend that you will be gone and provide them with your itinerary.

Place a hold on your mail. And cancel your newspapers for the time you will be gone. Nothing screams, “I am on vacation” than a pile of newspapers at the end of your driveway.

2) Prepare for the care and safety of your pet.

If Fluffy isn’t hitting the road with you, either ask a friend to stay with her or schedule her at the doggie or kitty spa.

3) Have your vehicle serviced before you leave, especially if you are going on a road trip.

In addition to servicing your vehicle, prepare your emergency kit, including the spare tire, jack, flashlight, and jumper cables. And have roadside assistance information prepared before leaving for your family vacation.

4) Get a good night’s sleep before you leave.

Start the day well-rested, fresh, energetic, and ready to go. Beginning your vacation well-rested is particularly vital if you are going on a road trip; drowsy driving is not a safe way to travel.

5) Assure ample time to get where you are going, whether it be the airport or your final destination.

Rushing in traffic or inclement weather only increases your risk of an accident. Leave extra time for issues, and don’t get in a rush; you’re on vacation.

6) Do your research.

• Check the travel advisories for your travel destination.  The U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs lists travel warnings by levels, from “Exercise Normal Precautions” to “Do Not Travel.” Check here first.
• Do a google search on common scams in the area. Doing research should not freak you out or talk you out of going. But, you need to be aware of the issues before you travel.
• Find out the political situation of the area you plan to travel to, plus health risks, crime rate, and areas of high crime. Know before you go.

7) Let someone know where you will be going—especially crucial for solo travelers or those of you who are traveling for extended periods.

Stuff happens; natural disasters, an unexpected illness, political unrest, no wifi, so if you are off the grid for longer than expected, at least someone would know where to start to find you based on your itinerary.

Plus, check-in with your family and friends with an email or a quick text. Just let them know where you are and that you are safe.

But, don’t let social media know that you will be gone.  Wait until you get home to post your fun.  Letting people know you are on vacation is only advertising that no one is at your house and inviting unwanted guests with bad intentions.

8) Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

Don’t be declined, it is kinda embarrassing. It doesn’t take long to let your bank and credit card companies know with a simple phone call, and it is way easier to take care of ahead of time.

9) Scan a copy of your passport.

A couple of ways that you can do this—do both. Take a picture of your passport to keep on your smartphone. AND email that picture to yourself and your travel companion if not traveling solo. Plus, email a copy to a friend at home; you never know.

You may need your passport information, and it’s back at the hotel under lock and key. Or, worse yet, what if it’s stolen? Having a copy makes it much easier to get a replacement.

Healthy Airplane Travel Safety Tips.

Staying safe from germs on an airplane has become quite the buzz this year due to COVID-19. Safety measures are ever-evolving in 2020.

Airlines and airports are taking many steps to diminish the risk of exposure to COVID-19, including temperature testing, questioning about symptoms, contactless boarding, physical distancing, use of face coverings, adjustment of inflight food and beverage services, and enhanced cleaning.

For the latest CDC recommendations during the global pandemic, read this.

Here are a few vital health and safety tips for air travel.

10) Bring lots of sanitizing wipes. Use sanitizing wipes to clean your seating area thoroughly. Be sure to include all surfaces; the seatback, armrests, seat belt, tray table, window shade, and where you open the air vent.

11) Don’t touch the seat pocket or the magazines in it.

12) Use hand sanitizer, yes, even after you wash your hands.

13) Avoid touching your face and mouth.

14) Keep your air vent on. Even better, point it straight at your face and turn it up.

15) Avoid the aisle seat (too much exposure to people walking back and forth). Many airlines are now boarding from the back to the front to limit exposure; some are not.

16) Bring your water bottle and hydrate. Remember, the water in the bathroom is NOT DRINKABLE.

17) Don’t drink too much alcohol, only just a little.

18) Consider wearing compression stockings to minimize your risk of developing deep venous thrombosis from immobility and cramped quarters since it is now frowned upon to move about the cabin.

Holiday Travel Safety Tips While at Your Destination.

19) Don’t look flashy.

Resist the temptation to pack your fancy stuff for travel. You will stand out in the crowd with your 2K studs and your bling; you are an easy target for theft. AND, leave your Louis behind. Don’t wear or carry anything that will bring attention to you. If you look like money, you are fair game in many places. Oh, and don’t flash your cash.

Ninja Family Travel Safety Tip: We split our money between the two of us, in case one of us is pickpocketed. And leave our extra cash in the hotel safe.

20) Use the hotel safe.

Don’t tempt anyone by leaving out valuables while you are away exploring. Lock up your laptop, iPad, camera, passport, and jewelry in the hotel safe.

21) Avoid smartphone theft.

• Don’t keep your phone in your back pocket.
• Create a strong, secure password and use facial recognition technology if available.
• Use the Find My Phone App.
• Record your IMEI (International Mobile Station Equipment Identity); this is your smartphone’s unique serial number.
• Don’t leave your phone unattended.
• Lock your phone in the safe if you are leaving it in your hotel room for any reason.

22) Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Pay close attention at all times to your surroundings. Stay alert. Don’t fixate on your phone while walking up the street, riding on a city bus, or the subway or tube.  Always pay attention to your surroundings, don’t let your smartphone distract you. 

Trust your gut if you feel something is awry. Get out if you feel uncomfortable. If your gut tells you something is wrong, then it probably is. Don’t ignore your instincts.

My favorite family travel safety tip from the wise Dr. Seuss is to NOT go down any not-so-good street.

You’ll look up and down streets. Look ’em over with care. About some you will say, “I don’t choose to go there.”

With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet, you’re too smart to go down any not-so-good street.”

Dr. Seuss

23) Pack a small first aid kit.

• Imodium.
• Ibuprofen (for adults and kids).
• Acetominophen.
• Pepcid, Pepto, anti-emetic.
• Hydrocortisone cream.
• Triple Antibiotic Ointment.
• Antihistamine (for example, Benadryl).
• Bandaids of various sizes.
• Aloe or other sunburn soothing lotion.

Here is a DIY First Aid Kit Checklist.

24) Pack bug spray and use it.

According to the World Health Organization, mosquitoes are one of the deadliest animals in the world. I know this sounds dramatic, but mosquitoes cause so many problems; malaria, West Nile Virus, dengue, chikungunya, zika, and yellow fever. Seriously, pack your bug spray or bug wipes and use them.

By the way, apply sunscreen before DEET as DEET can decrease the sun protection factor of sunscreen by one third.

25) Stay sober.

Lay off the booze. I am not saying to go without; have a glass of wine, Champagne, or an ice-cold local beer, but don’t overindulge in a place you are unfamiliar with.

This holiday travel safety tip cannot be stressed enough. You will be less aware and slower on your feet. Your inhibitions will lower.

If you are stumbling about, you are the perfect target for theft, or worse. NEVER leave your drink unattended to avoid being spiked without your knowledge. AND DO NOT take a drink from a stranger. Sorry, now I am sound like your mom.

And Don’t drink and drive.

26) Know emergency numbers may be different where you are traveling.

Here in the United States, we have 911 for an emergency. But, this is not the same everywhere you go.

• 911 in the United States and many US Territories.
• 112 is the EU Emergency number.
• 999 in Great Britain.
• This website provides a list of emergency numbers and calling codes literally from A to Z.

27) Travel safety tips when out and about, especially at night.

• Do use your common sense. If you feel that it may not be safe, then it probably is not.
• Don’t wander around alone at night in dark, isolated areas.
• Use public transportation. Do not accept a ride from a stranger who is not your proven Uber or Lyft driver. Ask your hotel to arrange transportation for you. The staff knows the safest way to go.
• Do your research, know where the unsafe areas are located, and stay away.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and don’t let your guard down.

Travel Safety Tips When Driving on Vacation.

Here are a few alarming facts.

• According to the World Health Organization, injuries are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the world. “Approximately 1.3 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes (WHO statistic).”  
• About 90% of road traffic casualties occur in developing countries.
• And more than half of these deaths are pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
• Traffic fatalities are the leading cause of death for children and young adults from five to 29 years old.

Why are road traffic injuries common among travelers?

The roads you drive on are unfamiliar. Country roads may have unprotected curves and cliffs, and the road surfaces may be different than what you drive on at home. Visibility can be a factor because of rain, snow, or fog. And, unfortunately, not every rental car agency keeps up with vehicle maintenance.

28) Common sense preventive measures when driving in an unknown city or country.

1. Wear your seat belt at all times.
2. Avoid driving at night.
3. Don’t drink and drive.
4. If traveling by taxi, ride only in marked taxis.
5. Avoid overcrowded public transportation.
6. Don’t drive or ride on a motorbike.
7. And if you must ride on a motorbike, wear a helmet.

Summer Holiday Safety Tips.

29) Water Safety During Summer Vacation.

• Please make sure everyone in the family has had swim lessons and knows how to keep themselves above water. If you are a mom living in Florida, one of the top life skills you can teach your kids is how to swim. It is an absolute must.
• However, even if your kiddos are fantastic swimmers, keep a close eye on them at all times.
• Don’t drink alcohol and swim.
• Stay hydrated. Stop for frequent water breaks. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages as these may further hydrate you.

30) Tips to Avoid a Painful Sunburn.

• Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply generously in the morning, after swimming, after lunch, and every 60-80 minutes.
• Wear a cap to protect your scalp from sunburn. Or a stylish, oversized beach hat.
• Sport your cool shades with UVB protection.
• If you are spending the day at the beach, consider a beach umbrella or a tent for the whole family.
• Use Chapstick or lip balm with SPF.
• Here is one last quick tip about the sun. If you are at the beach, the sand will be hot and can potentially burn tiny young feet. Have the littles wear protective shoes to avoid this problem.

Remember, apply sunscreen before DEET as DEET can decrease the sun protection factor of sunscreen by one third.

31) How to Treat a Sunburn.

• Take an anti-inflammatory such as Motrin or Aleve. These medications help with pain, too.
• Apply calamine lotion, a moisturizer, or gel with aloe vera or coconut oil.
• Cool the skin several times a day with a wet, cool washcloth.
• Stay hydrated.
• If your sunburn is bad enough, your skin may blister. Do not break the blisters, as this will increase your risk of developing an infection. If the blisters break, keep them clean with soap and water and apply an antibiotic ointment.
• Once your sunburn begins to heal, it may be itchy. Use Benadryl (diphenhydramine) ointment or hydrocortisone cream to relieve the itch.
• Protect your skin from further sun damage by staying out of the sun until healed.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you develop high fevers, severe pain, skin infection, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, or shaking chills.

32) Heat-Related Illness.

10 Tips to Avoid Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke.

• The best way to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke is to limit your time in extreme heat and humidity. Consider staying indoors when the heat is at its peak, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Stay indoors in extreme heat.
• Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear sunscreen and re-apply often. According to the CDC, sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can cause dehydration.
• Wear an oversized cap and shades that block both UVA and UVB light. When choosing sunglasses, look for approval from the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation for safe and effective sun protection.
• Stay hydrated. Stick to non-sugary and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Replace electrolytes with sports drinks.
• Hydrate your pets. 
• Avoid heavy meals.

33) Here is what to do if you think your loved one is experiencing heat exhaustion.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include fatigue, weakness, headaches, dizziness, thirst, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, irritability, pale skin, and fast heartbeat.

• Hydrate with cool liquids (non-alcoholic).
• Please move to a cool area, either in the shade or indoors, where it is air-conditioned.
• Move them to a cold shower if available. Or wipe them down with a cold, wet towel.

Heat exhaustion may lead to heat stroke if not addressed promptly and adequately.

For instant access to a printable e-resource with 120 summer vacation safety tips, click here.

Safety Accessories and Tips.

34) Use a backpack with safety features.

• Use a backpack that is sturdy and fits snuggly on your back.
• Make sure it locks safely.
• I have seen people wearing their backpack on their front. Great idea if there are concerns about theft.

35) Remove your wallet from your backpack and carry it in your front pocket—NEVER in your back pocket. Or better yet, use a money belt for your cash or stash it in your sock.

This money belt is perfect for running while on vacation or the trails at home.

36) Purchase this tank top with a hidden zipper pocket from Clever Travel Companion and tuck your cash, credit cards, passport, and your cellphone in a secret zipped pocket.

37) And my favorite accessory with hidden pockets is this scarf with two hidden zipper pockets that will hold smartphones, passports, cash, and credit cards hidden and in style.

Here are a few more pick pocket proof clothing items from The Clever Travel Companion, including underwear!

⬇Images are from The Travel Companion Website.⬇

Scarf with hidden pockets.

Hoodie with four secret pockets.

Underwear with secret pockets.

38) Personal protection gadgets for travelers.

Mace, pepper spray, a small knife, a whistle, or a stun gun. Make sure your airline allows you to have this in your checked baggage. Here are some ideas for you from Amazon.

Food Safety Tips.

The symptoms of traveler’s tummy include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps. Left untreated, traveler’s tummy can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which may require medical evaluation and treatment.

If your symptoms last more than 48 hours, if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or excessively weak, or you experience bloody diarrhea, seek out medical assistance urgently.

Traveler’s Tummy is for real. Read more about it here.

Lower your risk of traveler’s tummy by safe eating and drinking habits. The Center For Disease Control lists information on how to avoid this ugly thing that can ruin your day or more while traveling.

39) Here are a few holiday travel safety tips to keep in mind when deciding on snacks and meals.

• Hot food is usually ok because high heat kills germs that may cause traveler’s diarrhea.
• Avoid raw food; this goes for runny eggs as well.
• Fruit and vegetables, if washed thoroughly and peeled and cut by you, are generally safe. Avoid fruit platters cut by others, and salsas made with fresh ingredients.
• Dairy products must be pasteurized.
• Nuts and other shelled foods are usually safe unless there are food allergies.
• Salads, I avoid unless I have made it myself.
• Street foods, I know this is fun, but be careful. If you see it come hot and steaming off of the grill, then go for it.
• Tap water is risky in many countries; this goes for ice, too. Water, sports drinks, sparkling water, sodas from a sealed bottle are the safest.
• Hot coffees and hot teas, if served steaming hot.

Here are some tips on how to stay healthy while on the road.

40) Purchase Travel Insurance.

Many of us ask this question. Do I really need travel insurance?

I would say that it depends. A weekender a few hours from home, probably not. But, a week in the Galapagos Islands, or a sail around the British Virgin Islands in a crewed yacht, yes, you should.

No one wants to obsess over things that can go wrong while traveling. But, stuff happens. Purchasing travel insurance will provide peace of mind that you will be taken care of in the event of an unplanned, unfortunate circumstance.

World Nomads, created by travelers for travelers, is one of the best choices for travel insurance, available to people in over 130 countries. Check out the World Nomads Website here. It doesn’t look at all like an insurance website. It is more like a travel blog, full of video and written content about traveling safely, responsibly, and ethically.

What You Should Know About Travel Insurance with World Nomads.

• World Nomads offers 24-hour emergency assistance.
• It provides cover from over 130 countries worldwide.
• You can buy more coverage and make claims online while traveling.
• World Nomads provides coverage for a range of adventure activities such as snow skiing, snowboarding, and white water rafting.
• The website provides information about safety alerts around the world, as well as safety advice and tips.
• Language guides to help you learn the local lingo.
• And document your adventure in their online travel journal.
• AND, they even provide coverage for medical evacuation to get you to a hospital or home quickly.

Safety is crucial to a rewarding family travel experience. Keep safety measures in mind as you plan your next adventure before you even leave home.

Travel Safely.

Travel smart.

Have fun.

And send me pictures.