Everyone loves summer trips, vacations, and holidays. The kids are out of school, the weather is usually pleasant, and the stress of the office is hopefully a long way away. As husbands and fathers, we at Good Guys Injury Law know the value of spending quality time with family. Therefore, we have put together a summer vacation safety guide that will help you to make the most of your vacation and to return without any worries or problems.
Table of Contents
Do I need a safety guide?
According to a recent study by the Travel Industry Association of America (TIAA), 80% of people who traveled or went on vacation last year plan on going on at least one trip this year. Of those same people who will be traveling again this year, 74% plan to drive. As the amount of travelers increases, so does the amount of risk. Especially on the road. More travelers means more risk of car accidents, break-ins, pick-pockets, loss of valuables, or other problems that occur while traveling. This doesn’t mean that you should cancel your vacation, but it does mean that there are some easy safety tips that you should keep in mind.
The Quick Tips You Need
The following tips are provided by the Traveler’s Company Inc., the Allstate Newsroom, and our own experiences with traveling.
Take Care of Your Home: You don’t want potential robbers to know that you will be away for a long time.
- Set your household lights on timers
- Stop your mail and newspaper
- Arrange to have your yard mowed
- Make sure your pets are being watched or boarded
- Take out your trash and make sure all electronics are turned off or unplugged
Don’t Overpack & Secure Your Valuables
- Clean out your purse or wallet so that it contains only what is necessary.
- Make sure your valuables are secure and are kept on your person. (Some people like to carry hidden money pouches)
- Traveling with minimal luggage will help you to move smoothly and attract less attention.
- Keep a folder with all necessary travel documents and records in one convenient place.
- Pack snacks and extra clothes that can be kept separate and reached easily for use while driving.
- Know your roof rack’s weight limit, don’t overload it, and check twice to make sure it is secure.
Don’t Make Yourself An Easy Target
- Don’t display expensive jewelry. Wear only what is necessary. (i.e. your wedding ring)
- Know the plan and review your route. Looking lost and confused will attract the wrong attention.
- Stick to well lit and well traveled/populated areas.
- Don’t write your address on your luggage tags or in other obvious places. Leave your phone number, not directions to your empty house.
Be Prepared
- Carry extra passport pictures and copies of the documents you will need if you have to replace a lost passport.
- Leave your itinerary with someone at home so that they know where you should be and when you should be there.
- Plan out breaks and fun stops along the way so that you don’t get too tired while traveling
- Make a budget for your trip so that you don’t spend more than you can afford.
- Carry a list of emergency contact numbers in your wallet.
- Research, Research, Research! The more time you spend researching and planning your trip out, the smoother it will go.
Road Trip Specific Tips
Now go and have fun!
With these tips in mind, all of us at Good Guys Injury Law hope that you enojy the trips and summer vacations that you have been working hard for. Unfortunately, even with the best planning and preparation, accidents happen. If you or a loved one are injured during your travels, let us know and we will do what we can to help you get back on your feet and back to vacation time with your family.
Photo “Lounge Chairs Under A Palm Tree” copyright to Ken Teegardin