When it comes to travelling, safety and preparation are paramount. I travel often alone or with my children, so being vigilant and prepared is my number 1 property!!

Over the years, I’ve developed a toolkit of strategies that keep us secure and ready for whatever adventures (or mishaps) come our way. And here are my top 10 tips for staying safe and prepared for any travel:

1. Use Tracking Tags for Luggage and Kids

One of the smartest travel hacks I’ve adopted is using AirTags/Tiles for our luggage and, more importantly, for my kids. These handy little devices ensure that if anything or anyone gets lost, I can easily track them down using my phone. It’s a simple solution that provides immense peace of mind.

Here are my picks – click to shop:

2. Use an Anti-Theft Bag

To safeguard against pickpockets, I always carry an anti-theft bag. These bags are designed with security in mind, featuring lockable zippers, cut-resistant materials, RFID-blocking technology and hidden pockets. They might not be the prettiest, but they are practical and much more of a deterrent then something designer and flashy that might make you more of a target!

Here are my picks – click to shop:

3. Invest in Good Travel Insurance

And while you can be as safe and prepared as you like, things inevitably can happen, so I always leave home with a solid travel insurance policy.

I am using PassportCard, as I love their unique offering of providing you with a physical card to use instantly to pay you for approved common claims, so you’re not out of pocket for expenses.

This includes:

1. Overseas medical expenses
2. $250 delayed luggage compensation
3. Replace up to $500 stolen cash

So if our luggage was delayed, for example, we just send them the report from the airline. They put money onto the PassportCard instantly which we can then withdraw from an ATM at the airport to buy toiletries and clothes to tide us over until we get our luggage back. Pretty cool right?

Taking the stress and hassle out of making claims, as well as giving me peace of mind while we travel. They also offer 24/7 global support and heaps of options to be tailored to your insurance needs.

You can get a free quote and find out more here!

4. Keep Digital and Physical Copies of All Travel Documents

I always make sure to have both digital and physical copies of all important travel documents, including passports, insurance details, and itineraries. I store digital copies in a secure cloud service and keep printed copies in a safe place. This way, I’m prepared even if the original documents are lost or stolen and anyone back home also has access if needed too.

5. Share My Location

On top of tracking our bags (and little people), I always make sure to share our location with a trusted family member or friend. This way, someone always knows where we are, which is especially useful during solo excursions or when travelling in more remote areas.

You can turn this on via Google Maps, or use tracking apps like Life360 (I use both) as this has lots more features and travel functionality.

5. Have an e-SIM for Constant Internet Access

Staying connected is crucial, so I use an e-SIM card, as I have had issues with connecting via my own SIM in the past, which has caused all kinds of grief.

Using an e-sim is great for seamless internet access without the hassle of swapping SIM cards. Whether I need to pull up a digital boarding pass, navigate using Google Maps, or make a quick call, I can always stay connected.

7. Check Smart Traveller for Scams and Alerts

Before and during our trip, I regularly check Smart Traveller for the latest travel advisories, scams, and alerts regarding our destinations. This resource is invaluable for staying updated on potential safety concerns that could affect our travel plans.

As we know, things are always changing and it’s great to be aware and up-to-date. Also another reason why great travel insurance is a must!!

8. Use a TSA-Approved Lock on Luggage

To keep our belongings secure while in transit, I use TSA-approved locks on all our luggage. These locks deter theft but can be opened by airport security if necessary without damaging the lock or bag, which provides peace of mind as we travel.

9. Have Several Ways of Accessing Money and Notify My Bank

I always ensure we have multiple ways to access money when abroad. This includes a mix of cash, credit cards, and travel money cards, stored separately in different bags and pockets. 

Additionally, I notify my bank of my travel dates and destinations so that my cards are not mistakenly blocked for unusual activity, ensuring continuous access to funds.

10. Research Safe Areas, Emergency Contacts, Safe Transport, and Use Trustworthy Booking Sites

In preparation for our trips, I thoroughly researched safe areas to stay, make note of local emergency numbers, and look into safe transport options. I also make sure to book accommodations and activities through reputable and trustworthy sites like Qantas Hotels and Klook. This ensures that our accommodations are secure and our activities are safely planned, providing a solid safety net throughout our travels.

---

By following these tips, it ensures that my family and I can focus on enjoying our travels, as stress-free and safe as possible.

NOTE: This information is general in nature and is for reference purposes only. It does not constitute as financial advice. I recommend you seek your own specific financial advice and review the relevant Product Disclosure Statements before taking any action. I am an authorised representative (AR No. 001309915) of PassportCard Australia Pty Ltd ABN 76 621 476 220 AFSL 551057.