Travel Safety Tips for the Holidays

Follow these holiday safe travel tips to help ensure your safety and the safety of loved ones traveling with you over the holidays.

Road trip safety

The American Automobile Association stresses that drivers make sure their vehicle is in good running condition before taking a holiday road trip. Make sure you take roadside assistance contact information with you in case you need assistance while traveling.

• Always keep valuables out of sight when traveling. It takes mere seconds for experienced thieves to break into vehicles and take off with valuables.
• Take your cell phone and charger with you, but remember not to talk, text and drive. Pull over in a well-lighted area before using your phone. Several companies offer a smart phone app that allows motorists to request help without making a call.
• Remind children not to talk to strangers. This is especially important for when you take breaks, stop for meals or snacks or to fill up the gas tank. Use the buddy system or provide whistles to all family members in case you become separated.
• Travel with an emergency kit. Include first aid supplies, LED flashlight, blankets, bottled water, food, necessary medications, folding shovel and other important items, such as those offered in the Working Moms Against Guilt winter emergency kit.
• Leave early to plan for weather and traffic delays.

Traveling by plane or train

Many of the same tips apply when traveling by plane or train. The first is to never use social media while traveling. This invites home burglars and strangers that now know your location. Wait until you return home before sharing photos or holiday travel details.

Arrive at the airport early. A Travel Channel writer suggests planning your departure time for early morning or late night. Pack light and take important items in your carry-on bag. Eat before boarding in case you have a long wait before the plane takes off. Allow enough time between flights so you do not miss your connection. Ask a TSA representative if there are family lanes to get your family through the security lines smoothly.

Other important holiday travel safety tips

• Do not carry large amounts of cash.
• Use ATMs in well-lighted locations
• Always keeping your wallet, purse, car keys and hotel keys close to you.
• Always use hotel locks
• Never prop your hotel door open or open the door to a stranger.