A summertime getaway is just what many need to visit faraway family, spend time learning about other places, or simply to relax and have fun. Keep these tips in mind to make your trip as safe as possible: 

 

  • Before hitting the road in the family vehicle, schedule a check-up–for the car! Have a reputable mechanic to check the engine and parts thoroughly, including all fluids, belts, and the battery, and make sure your tires are in good condition and properly inflated.   

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  • Pack items that you will need for emergencies where they can be easily accessed. Purchase one of the many emergency car kits that suits your needs or make your own kit and keep them in a storage tote. A small first-aid kit should be kept in the glove compartment, especially when the kids are traveling, too. 

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  • Check the forecast for all of your travel days. Summer heat means afternoon thunderstorms, and you will need to know where you can safely pull over if rain and wind become too heavy for driving.

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  • When using electronic navigation, be sure that the destination address is correct, and that the map is routed correctly. Print or purchase a paper map to consult in case you pass through areas where there is a poor signal is a must.  

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  • Air travel means added time to your day. Once at the airport, distribute the kids between the adults and go to different security screening lines, and your wait will be shorter. 

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  • Before getting comfortable on the plane, using alcohol-based disinfectant cloths, wipe everything down, giving extra attention to the food tray and the back of the seat pocket area. 

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  • If possible, leave your cell phone at home and opt for a prepaid cell phone to stay in touch.

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  • When you are not using Wi-Fi, disable it on your device, as well as the Bluetooth signal. Public connections can give hackers easy access to your stored personal data. 


  • Upon arrival at your hotel or rental home, ask for the official Wi-Fi router name and password, and see if there are other networks available throughout the property. Fake wireless connections can be created by hackers, leaving your personal information at risk of being breached.   


  • If paying for something online is your only option, disable your cell's Wi-Fi connection and use your cellular data as a security measure. 

 

While you are looking forward to some fun in the sun, it is important to keep yourself, your family, and your digital presence safe. Some mishaps are unavoidable, but when you are prepared, it makes your time away from home more fun and less stressful! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: CNBC