Stress-Free Stays: How to Choose & Secure Your Perfect Travel Home
Traveling brings a lot of excitement, especially if you are exploring a new country or continent. There’s a lot that’s unfamiliar, so it can be easy to worry, especially about your safety and keeping track of your belongings. Put into practice our tips and tricks to ensure your accommodations are not just a place to sleep but a haven of security.
1. Research is Your Best Friend. Before you hit that "book" button, spend some time researching your potential accommodations. Check out all the reviews from fellow travelers if you’re booking through Airbnb and take a close look at all the pictures. Pay attention to comments about safety, cleanliness, and the overall vibe of the place. Do the same if you are booking a hotel, too. Remember, a little bit of research goes a long way in ensuring a worry-free stay. We do a search for the best places to stay in a particular city
2. Location, Location, Location. Whether it's an Airbnb tucked away in a charming neighborhood or a hotel in the heart of the city, choose a location that aligns with your comfort level. Proximity to public transportation, well-lit streets, and nearby amenities can contribute to your overall sense of safety. You can reach out to an Airbnb host if their photos or reviews don’t provide this detail. Avoid ground floor locations. The safest floors are considered to be floors three to six because they are harder to access but not so high that they’re hard to evacuate in an emergency.
Addalock Door Latch
3. Pack some Safeguards. There are some easy, lightweight tools you can bring along when you travel for extra safety. Here are a few of our favorites:
Door Stop Alarms. These dual purpose door stop alarms from Emdmak function as a door stop, but also a 120DB siren. It has three sensitivity settings—low, medium, and high and is light enough that it doesn’t take up much weight in your suitcase for the peace of mind it gives. There’s no installation process beyond shoving it into the gap between your door and the floor.
Addalock Door Latch. This thin piece of metal fits into your door jam and prevents anyone from shimmying the door open while you’re inside. It’s easy to install—open the door, insert it into the latch, close the door, put the key in. This tool is dependent on how big the opening is between the door and the jam, but for how little space it takes up, it’s a worthwhile investment. Regardless of whether you are using this additional protective device, keep your doors locked at all times, including when you’re inside. Use the extra security bar found in hotel rooms if they have one.
AirTags. If you have an iPhone, there are several benefits to a putting AirTags into your bags. They’ll help you to know if your bag has been moved, or where your case is if you left it behind. AirTags are Federal Aviation Administration approved, so you’ll be able to ensure that your checked bag is traveling to your destination. One additional cool perk is that if someone is trying to track you, you’ll get notified that there’s an unregistered device nearby.
4. Communication is Key. If you’re booking an Airbnb, ask a question to check on the responsiveness of the host. One suggestion if your Airbnb has digital locks is to ask your host if they can be reset before your arrival. Clear communication can help address any concerns you might have and give you a feel for the responsiveness of the people managing your stay. A prompt and friendly response can go a long way in easing any pre-travel jitters.
5. Trust Your Instincts. As seasoned travelers, we've developed a sixth sense about our surroundings. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts. Whether it's a strange vibe from the host or a hotel room that doesn't meet your expectations, don't hesitate to make changes. Your comfort and safety should always be a priority.
6. Secure Your Belongings. Be mindful of your surroundings. Regardless of where you stay, take precautions to secure your belongings by locking your doors and windows. If you opt to use the provided safe, make sure you set a few reminders for yourself so that you don’t leave anything behind. Pack some Post-Its and put a note on the bathroom mirror or leave a sock on the doorknob. Put a reminder with an alarm on your calendar. Don’t even bother carrying along expensive jewelry or other items and take that load off your mind. Don’t leave expensive items laying around in your room when you’re not there. Put them in your suitcase and lock it up. Make it harder for anyone entering your room to swipe something. A few simple steps can help ensure your valuables stay safe while you explore the wonders of your destination.
7. Stay Informed. Before you arrive at your destination, familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and contact information. Knowing where the nearest hospital, police station, or embassy is can provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Remember, your travel experience should be filled with excitement and discovery, not worry. By taking these simple steps, you can create a safe and secure home away from home, allowing you to focus on the incredible adventures that await.
