When business calls you out-of-town there is more to consider than packing your suitcase and planning your meetings. To ensure low-risk and low-stress travel both domestically and internationally review the following tips.
1. Safe Travel Starts at Home
While you are traveling, protect your house the way you protect yourself. Make your house look as though you are still home. Rather than cancel your mail or newspaper delivery, ask a friend or neighbor to pick them up for you. Set lights and sprinklers to a timer. Park your car in the driveway, better yet, offer your driveway to your neighbor while you are away.
2. Copy Important Documents
Make three copies of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you plan to bring with you. Leave one copy with family at home, one copy with your supervisor, and pack the last copy in a place separate from where you carry the originals.
3. Fly the Friendly Skies
There are two types of luggage: carry-on and lost. When possible, pack only a carry-on size suitcase. Remember that size restrictions differ for domestic and international travel; be sure to double check with your airline. Familiarize yourself with current TSA requirements by visiting http://www.tsa.gov/311/. Laptops stored in the overhead compartments are easier to steal, so it is a good idea to place them under the seat in front of you.
4. Stay Safe at the Hotel
It is always a good idea to leave valuables at home, but if you must bring valuables with you, leave them in the hotel safe, not in your room. For items too large to store in the safe, place them in your luggage and lock luggage with your TSA approved lock. Never give out your room number, keep doors locked, and arrange to meet visitors in the lobby. Familiarize yourself with the nearest fire exit and evacuation plan in the event of an emergency.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Chatting on your cell phone or making notes on your Blackberry while walking down the street at home might be second nature to you. On the road, though, these actions can be distracting. Pay attention to traffic signs, street signs, and people around you.
6. Mind Your Items
Carrying your wallet in your back pocket might be most comfortable, but it is a target for pickpockets. Chances are good your laptop will be joining you in your travels; protect it with a password so that your information stays safe. It is also a good idea to attach a business card to the bottom of your laptop so that if it gets lost it has a greater chance of being returned to you.
