Traveling Safely: Tips for Protecting Your Family While Exploring New Destinations

Traveling with your family is one of life's greatest joys, but prioritizing safety is essential, especially when exploring new destinations. In today’s social media grab, we are one click away from hearing the most recent scary news about any location anywhere in the world. Whether heading to a bustling city or a remote beach, here are some tips to keep your family safe and sound throughout your adventures.

First things first, do your research. This doesn’t mean you are googling the worst of the worst, but looking at the facts and understanding that all places have the good, the bad, and the ugly. Before you embark on your journey, take the time to research your destination. Familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and potential safety concerns. It's also good to check travel advisories and stay informed about current events or issues that may affect your trip.

Regarding accommodations, choose wisely for reputable hotels or vacation rentals, prioritizing safety and security. Look for accommodations that offer 24-hour front desk service, secure locks, and well-lit entrances; when people are always looking at when you’re coming and going, it can be a helpful layer of security, especially if you are planning on late nights out on the town. Choosing a hotel in a safe and centrally located area is also a good idea.

While exploring your destination, stay vigilant. Keep an eye on your surroundings and be aware of potential dangers. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or valuables, and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. It's also a good idea to carry a copy of your passport and essential documents and leave the originals safely. This means not taking advantage of the cheap drinks overseas and acting like you don’t know how to function. Most of the time, when we hear about our friends getting hurt or ending up in a predicament- they are drunk, alone, and doing something that they probably shouldn’t have been doing.

When traveling with children, safety becomes even more critical. Ensure your children know their surroundings and what to do in case they get separated from y u. Something Kelly passed down from her childhood is the use of a safewo. d. This is a word that only you and your immediate family know—nobody else. For example, what are Kelly's safe words with her mother, which not even Andrew knows ( it would defeat the purpose)? What is a safe word/phrase you can use with your kids so they know it’s yours? Outside of that, tattoos are not permanent; they are removable. You can order some on Etsy that are custom-made and ready with all your information. So when those kiddos walk away, they have a number if they walk a long way. Finally, we are not beneath an Apple Air Tag; consider using a child locator device.

In unfamiliar areas, trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation if something feels right. It is always better to be safe than sorry, so listen to your gut and take precautions to protect yourself and your family.

Finally, be prepared for emergencies. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation n. Carry a first aid kit with you and familiarize yourself with local emergency services and medical facilities. It is also an excellent idea to have a plan in place in case of natural disasters or other unforeseen events.

Traveling with your family is a beautiful experience, and by following these tips, you can ensure that your adventures are memorable and safe. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy exploring new destinations with your loved ones!