When vacationing for business or pleasure you want to keep valuables safe while traveling. Keep reading to determine how to best protect your identity while on-the-go. You should always treat your personal information and belongings with the utmost security, and be skeptical of those who might have access to it during your trip.
Before You Leave
When preparing for your trip you will only want to bring the necessary items with you. Clean out your wallet or purse to make sure you do not accidentally bring:
- Social Security card
- More than one form of identification
- Account information
If they get stolen or copied you will be opening yourself up to a lot of chances for identity theft. Leave these extra items at home so you can worry and carry less:
- Checks
- ATM/Debit cards
- Unnecessary credit cards
Store Items in a Secure Place – Keep valuables safe while traveling by storing the items listed above in a secure space. In order to minimize the risk of someone having unauthorized access to these documents, they should be as guarded as possible.
Make Copies Before You Leave – Make copies of the information you need while traveling, like passport details and reservations. Leave them with a trusted friend or family member in case they are lost. You can contact the friend to get the information while traveling.
Put Mail on Hold – Consider putting your mail on hold while you are away to avoid mail theft and alerting intruders that no one is home. Same with newspapers or other print journals delivered to your home. Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check on your house while you are away.
While Traveling
When you are on vacation you should always act with extreme caution.
Lock Items Away – Keep valuables safe while traveling by leaving your valuables safely locked away while you explore during the day using your lodging’s safe or locker. This might include a laptop, passport, cash, etc.
Avoid Certain Areas – Avoid areas where you can easily be a pickpocket target. Carry your items on you in a money belt or similarly secure bag. Do not bring unnecessary items with you for the chance to be stolen.
Keep Your Bag With You – Do not leave your bags unattended in public areas including hanging them in restrooms and setting them on the ground.
And of course, be aware of your surroundings at all times.
If you have additional questions or concerns you can receive no-cost assistance from the expert advisors at ITRC. Call us toll-free at 888.400.5530 or live-chat with an expert today.
