The holidays are a wonderful time to travel and spend time with friends and family. Whether you’re flying across the country or spending a few days with loved ones nearby, these practical tips can help ensure peace of mind while you’re away.

Secure Your Home

• Leverage home automation: program smart lights, thermostats, video doorbells, and home security cameras in advance and monitor remotely for real-time updates.

• Inform a neighbor or friend: ask someone you trust to keep an eye on your home, collect unexpected packages, and report anything unusual.

• Lock up and unplug: double-check that all doors, windows, and garage entries are locked. Unplug small appliances to prevent electrical hazards. Store jewelry, legal documents, and valuables in a safe or secure deposit box.

Plan with Health and Comfort in Mind

• Pack medications in your carry-on and bring extra doses in case of delays. Carry a list of your prescriptions and your doctor’s contact information.

• If you have a chronic condition or allergies, wear a medical ID bracelet. Request mobility assistance as soon as you can. Airports, hotels, and attractions often provide free or low-cost options like wheelchair or shuttle services or priority boarding.

• Keep your body moving when you are able, stretch regularly, and stay hydrated.

Manage Finances and Documents Safely

• Call your bank and credit card companies and tell them when you will be traveling to avoid flagged transactions or freezes.

• Carry only essential cards and a limited amount of cash and leave unnecessary documents at home.

• Make digital or paper copies of your passport, ID, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. Share these copies with a trusted family member or friend and store them for yourself in a separate location.

• Consider travel insurance, especially if the trip is especially long or complicated. Even the most well-prepared travelers have to pivot sometimes, and coverage can protect against severe weather, medical emergencies, and cancellations.

Stay Connected While Gone

• Share your itinerary with a trusted family member or friend and include the details of your accommodations.

• Use secure connections when accessing the internet and conducting financial transactions. Avoid using public Wi-Fi and opt for a VPN while abroad.

• Wait to post travel updates or photos online, especially on social media sites like Facebook, until after you return home to avoid alerting bad actors that you are away, and your home is empty.

Enjoy the Journey!

With your home secure and your visit planned thoughtfully, you can focus on connecting with loved ones, making fond memories, and enjoying the spirit of the holiday season.