At this point in time we’re all pretty familiar with social distancing, handwashing, vaccinations, and mask wearing. But there are definitely some other risks to keep in mind when you’re traveling. We might already know not to look like a tourist by letting your cash hang all over the place at the ATM, and that not drinking local water is specifies in many destinations. But there are some other things to keep in mind when traveling related to things like identity theft or other health risks. Here are some things you might not think about and how to keep yourself safe.
Be aware of Credit Card “Skimmers”
Have you heard of credit card scammers? If not these are extremely hard to notice, virtually undetectable readers built into ATM machines, gas pumps, and other points of sale. Chip cards to help with that but of course the criminals of the world like to keep up with the latest. Using cash is one way you can get around this, but investing in identity theft protection is also a great idea. You may also want to check your credit card benefits programs to see if any of this might be included.
Pack your Meds in Your Carry On, Not your Checked Luggage
Just in case your bag gets lost by the airline, it is always strongly recommended to keep your medication‘s in your carry-on bag. The TSA doesn’t need your medications to be in the original bottle, but some states might have a requirement on that. Check the TSA website to find out what you can’t bring, can bring, and how you should handle medications.
Make Your Own Travel Health / 1st Aid Kit
Being prepared is a good idea. Making yourself a little travel health kit is always a great idea. You may want to include current medications, copies of prescriptions, over-the-counter remedies & first aid supplies.
Beware of What’s Called “Economy Class Syndrome”
Have you heard of economy class syndrome? The term may sound like something to do with feeling like cattle with your knees jammed in for hours at a time, but it actually refers to a condition that is experienced by certain passengers and is related to excessive blood coagulation which can result in Venus thromboembolism.
This condition involves two different kinds of situations. Venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Everything from cancer to hormone replacement therapy to oral contraceptives or your body mass index can actually affect this. When combined with immobilization, low humidity, and hyperbaric hypoxia on a plane, this can occur. If you have high risk factors such as obesity, smoking, etc., it’s good to get up and take walks, exercise your calf muscles, stay hydrated, and wear compression socks.
Wait to Show off your Vacay pics until You’re Home
Waiting until you’re home to post your photos and excitement about your trip is a great idea simply because clever criminals may be watching you online. Identity theft protection can help you with this especially those that include a social profile monitoring.
Rent or Buy Your Own Mobile Hotspot
Unsecured networks may be easy to connect to, but they’re also easy for hackers to use and access your personal details – so using public Wi-Fi networks can be a little bit iffy. Hackers also have been known to set up real looking networks and places like train stations or airports where tourists may log into them unknowingly. The hacker is putting something between your device and the real Wi-Fi connection so they can snatch your information. So using your smart phone’s hotspot, or even a rented hotspot is much safer than using a Wi-Fi network.
I hope these tips will help you prepare safely for your next trip!
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