Tag Archives: safety

Guide to the Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks – Which Lock to Choose

We’ve researched to find the best TSA approved luggage locks. Many travelers ask, “Should I lock my luggage?” Yes, however, you should only travel with a luggage lock that has the dual function of locking your luggage while still allowing for inspection by the TSA. You may need to upgrade your luggage lock to a TSA approved lock, here’s why. The Transportation Security Administration of the United States Department of Homeland Security knows as the TSA protects the nation’s airports and screens all commercial airline passengers and their baggage to keep us safe while flying. If you don’t use TSA accepted luggage locks you risk removal of your locks by a TSA inspector and potential damage to your bags.

What are TSA Approved Luggage Locks?

TSA approved means the TSA has a master key that will open any TSA approved luggage lock, instead of breaking, cutting, or damaging a standard (non-TSA) lock to open it and gain access to your luggage. Two lock manufacturers—Travel Sentry and Safe Skies have worked with the TSA to create TSA-approved locks under various brands that can be opened with a TSA master key. What is good for you is that the TSA’s master keys feature a special mechanism that enforces re-locking of the lock after inspection. This is accomplished by the functionality of the master key. The key cannot be removed from the luggage lock body until the luggage lock is re-secured by the TSA screener. TSA screeners no longer have to cut locks or force your bag open and risk damaging it, if you travel with a TSA accepted lock. If you do not use a TSA-accepted luggage lock, they have the right to damage and remove your lock to gain entry to your luggage for inspection, which, of course, will leave your bag unlocked.

Where are TSA Locks Recognized?

In addition, to the US and US territories, the UK, Canada, and Australia are also using this system. In other countries, they may flag your bag for inspection. Usually, they require you to open it at the counter when you are physically present, unlike in the US, where they may do it later after you have checked your bags. In this case, you are not present to unlock your luggage lock, and the airport agents have the right to break your luggage lock if it is not a TSA-accepted lock.

Different Types of TSA Accepted Luggage Locks & Their Unique Functions

Triple Lockdown Luggage Lock

One of the most common methods thieves use to enter bags with zippers is to split the zipper open with a pen or similar tool, take what they want, and reseal the zipper by sliding the zipper pull over the open portion of the zipper. When your luggage bag is opened in this manner, it leaves no visual clue that your bag was broken into. Double flexible cable technology stops this type of theft. Attach one end of the lock to your bag handle and the other to the zipper pulls. This prevents the traveling of the zipper pulls by keeping them in place. Lock your luggage handle to zipper pulls, or lock your luggage to fixed objects, preventing thieves from repairing zippers after entering the luggage. This TSA lock allows TSA Agents easy access to your suitcase or checked bags without damaging any of your luggage or breaking zippers. This TSA approved luggage lock has a 3-dial resettable combination. Click here to read more!

Tarriss TSA Luggage Lock with SearchAlert (2 Pack)

The SearchAlert indicator button is a feature that lets you know if the TSA has opened your bag while it was out of your possession during the baggage handling process. The indicator light changes from green to red once the TSA inserts their passkey into your lock to unlock it. The window will not go back to green once they removed their passkey, only you can reset the indicator window back to green. The locks are one of the best TSA approved luggage locks because of the SearchAlert feature.

TSA Flexible Cable Luggage Lock

This lock design is probably the easiest to use. A strong, durable, flexible steel cable, (coated in rubber) is designed to thread more easily through the holes in zipper pulls than a hard formed shank. Also, the wider design has dials that are easier to see and use. The combination numbers are on the edge and easier to set and read. Another great feature of this lock is how easy it is to set the combination of the lock with the included screwdriver. Cable locks are thin enough to thread through all standard sized zippers and hard case lock holes but strong enough to protect your belongings. TSA approved luggage lock cable measures 4 in from end to end and has an internal looped length of 1.5 in when locked. Click here to read more!

Sure Lock- Easy to Read and Many Colors

The SureLock uses an ultra-tough alloy body to protect it from the harshest of baggage handling. The hardened stainless steel internal lock mechanisms won’t rust or freeze up even after years of use. This lock is backed with a complete money-back guarantee. Available in many colors and multi-packs. Click here to read more!

Brinks Solid Brass Key Lock, 2-Pack

The best feature of this lock set is that the locks are keyed alike, so one key works on either lock. No fumbling trying to find the right key and no remembering of a combination code. The lock body is made of solid brass and the shanks are solid steel. If you need more locks they are also available in a 4 pack that are keyed alike. Lifetime warranty from a company that is synonymous with security. Click here to read more!

Luggage Strap with TSA Combination Lock

An adjustable strap means it fits most luggage tightly. Great for hard-case luggage! The TSA-secured access device can open the lock in case the TSA wishes to inspect your bag. Available in various colors it’s a bright identifier for your luggage so no one else will confuse your bag for theirs at the luggage carousel. Click here to read more!

Buying New Luggage?

Now, you can purchase suitcases with built-in TSA-approved locks. This feature eliminates the chances of you losing a lock during the baggage handling process or otherwise. Another reason to consider a new bag with a built-in TSA lock is that most bags with built-in locks are “hard-sided” and virtually impossible for an opportunistic thief to breach, offering more security for your possessions than soft-sided bags that could be sliced open. Here are a few well-priced, good-value suggestions.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-on Spinner Hardside Luggage with built-in TSA lock

COOLIFE Luggage Expandable Suitcases PC+ABS Spinner Built-in TSA

A Guide to the Different Styles of Luggage Locks

Protecting your possessions and valuables inside your luggage is the purpose of a luggage lock. Buying a good quality lock just makes sense, especially when you compare the cost of your luggage contents to the price of the locks. Depending on your preferences, you can find a lock style that is just right for you. Here is a summary of the various styles of TSA approved luggage locks.

Key Lock: This is a lock that is opened with a key. The good news is you do not need to remember a combination. The bad news is if you lose the key, you’ll need to cut the lock off. This will require bolt cutters or a saw that cuts metal. When traveling think about bringing the second key and keeping it secure (not in your luggage.)

Combination Lock: This style of TSA-approved luggage lock uses either 3 numbers or 4 numbers. If you choose this type of lock you won’t need to worry about a key. This style of lock is the most common one travelers choose. Make sure to select a sturdy lock with easy-to-read dials that are easy to turn. Another easy-use tip is to select a slightly larger lock as it is easier to use than super small locks.

Wordlock: The WordLock luggage lock is locked with words instead of numbers. Words for some people are easier to remember than numbers. The combination is a four-letter word. This lock style is fully TSA-approved, which allows entry and relocking by airport security.

Cable Lock: The benefit of a cable TSA approved luggage lock is easy to use. The cables are rubber-coated flexible steel cables. They are easier to thread through small locks than hard-formed steel shanks.

Beyond Luggage Locks and Checked Bags

Locked bags discourage opportunistic thieves who will take advantage of bags without locks. However, even the most robust locks will not keep out those who are truly determined to break into your bag. That’s why we always recommend that you should place any valuables, including medications, electronics, and jewelry in your carry-on bag and not your checked luggage. If you must place an item of value in your luggage, take photos of it and your bag. It’s also worth investigating various travel and trip insurance policies to see if they cover loss. Airlines typically don’t accept liability for the loss of expensive items such as jewelry, electronic equipment, or fragile souvenirs.

Final thought

After weighing the benefits of traveling with one of the best TSA approved luggage locks or not we suggest you protect your gear with a TSA approved lock.

Common Scams in Developing Countries

Fake police. People who own a police badge and even a uniform may be crooks in disguise. Be suspicious of anybody who asks you to show them your money or passport. Ask to be taken to the nearest police station before they search you or your belongings.
Drugged food/drinks. Don’t accept food or drinks offered to you on a bus/train/etc. They may drug you and leave you vulnerable to robbery.
Money changers. In most countries of the world, you don’t need to look for black market rates. Sometimes you are approached by people who volunteer to change dollars at very good rates. They will show you a roll of banknotes, then switch it with another roll of worthless notes while they take your dollars.

Advice for Avoiding Scams Against Tourists

Avoid crowds where you have to slow down. Every time you slow down while walking in a street you become an easier target.
Be suspicious if somebody slows you down (eg, falls in front of you, his clothes get stuck in something, etc): it may be a pretext to facilitate an accomplice who is behind you.
Be aware of who is behind you. If the same person is behind you for a few minutes, be suspicious.
A decoy wallet may help distract the thief. The thief will target your very visible wallet, while your money is somewhere else (eg, in another pocket). Carry your passport and money in a hidden waist wallet.

Waist wallet stays hidden under clothing and out of reach of pickpockets

Avoid traveling with big luggage. The bigger the luggage, the more visible you are, and the harder it is for you to defend yourself, chase a thief, etc. Backpacks can be easily opened even while you are walking. Travel with an Anti-theft backpack or bag.

Anti-theft backpack has locking zippers to keep out thieves

Always ask for receipts at hotels when they make you pay in advance.
Always bargain the price of a taxi before entering it, even if it has a meter. Always use taxis that are recommended and referred by the hotel you are staying in. Always be wary of taxis you hail on the street.
In most countries of the world, it is inappropriate to approach strangers (especially women). Anybody who approaches you (no matter how big his smile) should make you a little suspicious. Keep your guard up and be careful when talking to strangers.
Anybody who speaks English well and approaches you is suspicious by definition. I am aware of many occasions that person will turn out to be somebody who wants to make money out of you, either by being your guide or by selling you souvenirs or worse. If you refuse, they will turn nasty.
Again, be cautious of strangers. Once they force you to behave friendly, they have the upper hand psychologically. They know that you were raised to be nice to people who are nice to you.
In most countries of the world women never respond to strangers, not even if they like the stranger. For a foreign woman, it is never a good idea to respond to men who approach her. The appropriate behavior is cold silence and indifference. Even a “no” is viewed as beginning a conversation. A smile is the worse course of action (in some cultures means “I am saying no but I mean yes”).

Advice for Reducing Your Victim Potential

Walk fast all the time. Every time you stop (to browse in a shop, to write a postcard, to take a picture), you become an easy target.
Don’t wear expensive clothes/watch. Your watch might be someone’s 6-month salary.
Try to dress as much as the natives (give the impression you “live” in the country, or at least try to blend in).
Dress as humbly as possible.

If Robbed

If you were robbed of something unusual happened in front or around you, don’t chase the thief, follow the person who generated the commotion: s/he is probably an accomplice. Don’t try to stop her/him until there is police nearby. If s/he is an accomplice, police will probably recognize her/him right away. Accomplices are often women and children.

If Attacked

Use violence only if the attacker is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Otherwise, you may be risking your life: he has obviously more experience than you.
In most countries, theft is an accident of life and police will not even make an effort to investigate, but murder, especially of a foreigner, is a major event. From the point of view of a thief, that means that he has no interest in hurting you: if he doesn’t hurt you, he’s likely to get away with his crime, but if he hurts you the entire police force of the nation will be after him. Unless you do something really weird, most of the time a thief who is after your wallet or luggage has no interest in hurting you, they want your money or valuables.

When Driving

The below does not apply solely to Third World countries but also here domestically.

Make sure your luggage does not show from the trunk.
If you are lost in an unsafe neighborhood, do not show that you are lost. Do not stop, keep driving and look at the map while driving.
Don’t rely on public telephones: if you are in a bad neighborhood, they are unlikely to be working.
The best protection is prevention: make familiar with the topography of the city before you start driving. If you get lost, you should at least be able to guess (without asking) in which direction you have to steer.
Get a map app on your phone.
Have an emergency number (can be a friend or local hotel) to call for help or advice.
Just don’t look like a tourist who is lost, helpless, and desperate. Look like somebody who lives around there and is about his business.

Additional Advice for Visiting Developing Countries

1. Get Medical Insurance
  Medical care in developing countries is not up to the standards of care you will find here in the US. If you are injured or fall ill you need an insurance policy that will evacuate you out of the country.
2. Do Cultural Research
  Before visiting developing countries do some research about customs, traditions, and language. Include religious beliefs and if they impact women traveling alone.
3. Understand Personal Earning Levels
  Be aware of what locals earn. Err on the side of generosity if tipping or bargaining. The money means more to them than it does to you.
4. Visit US Government Advisory Websites
  Travel safety tips for visiting developing countries keep evolving, so start your trip by doing your research before you travel.
  Visit US travel advisory website.
  Enroll in the Smart traveler program
5. Visit a doctor specializing in travel medicine

Simple Safety and Security Advice When Making Hotel Reservations

After you pick the location for your next hotel stay, savvy travelers recommend you do two things when making hotel reservations to ensure a more relaxing stay.

First, you need to give security some thought, even if you’re staying at a top resort. Next, you should make your personal requests known in advance. Here’s why.

Security Priorities

Request a hotel room in the “safest room zone”
That’s defined as a room on the second floor or higher, but below the 6^th in case there is a fire and the fire department needs to reach you. A room on the ground floor that has doors or windows that open to the outside is riskier especially in the case of motels, rooms off parking lots, or if you like to sleep with an open window.

Who else can access your room?
Pack a portable travel door lock. You never know if there are extra keys, key cards or pass keys out there that can open your hotel room while you are inside. You’ll sleep more soundly knowing your room is truly locked.

Identity theft happens most frequently in hotels
According to Experian, identity theft crimes took place most commonly in hotels (24 percent), restaurants (18 percent) and followed by airports (12 percent). Guard your credit cards, ID, and passport when you travel. Do not give out your credit card number to someone calling your room, even if they say they are calling from the front desk. Do not use the open WiFi connection or business center computers to conduct personal business or anything requiring a password protecting personal data.

How safe is the room safe?
A common place you leave items with your personal information while you are away from the room is the room safe. All hotel safes have a bypass code or way to open them in case a guest forgets their passcode or if the safe’s electronics fail. Theft from a room safe is virtually unprovable. Consider a safe lock that works to discourage and stop would-be thieves. There’s a lot of peace of mind right there.

Personal Request for Comfort and Convenience

Room location
Do you want to be close to the pool, lobby, or elevator? Have the hotel reservations agent mark your preference in your reservation at the time of booking (try to get that room between the 2nd and 6th floor.)

Room amenities
Do you want more pillows or special hypo-allergenic pillows? Ask for them at the time of booking so that housekeeping can place them in your room before your arrival or as soon as you arrive. The same goes for extra towels or a bathrobe. Make sure your preferences are noted in your booking record and then confirm at the check-in desk even before going to your room. This prevents you from having to open the door to someone else.

Be hands-free and worry-free at the pool or gym

If you plan on lounging by the hotel pool or beach, bring a portable pool or beach safe to secure valuables you leave behind when swimming or walking around. Knowing your valuables are close and secure will let you enjoy your activities more without carrying your phone, room key, etc., with you or taking turns guarding the “stuff.”

Most importantly, confirm that your security and comfort preferences are noted in your hotel reservation 24 hours before you arrive by speaking to someone at the front desk, not the reservation center. While asking for special accommodations does not guarantee that you’ll always get them, but by speaking to a person on the property does up your chances. If they do accommodate you be sure to thank them in person for their effort, and they may continue to help you out throughout your stay.

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I’m sure you’ve wondered what is the best way to keep valuables safe at the beach or pool. Have you ever gone to the beach and wondered what should I do with my phone, camera, keys or other valuables while I’m in the water? You’re not alone and thefts are common, especially at popular and crowded beaches favored by tourists.

Keeping Valuables Safe While at the Beach

1. The only way not to lose something to theft is not to bring it in the first place. Well, that is not always possible.

2. The next step is to try to thwart the efforts of would-be thieves by keeping your valuables on your person (in a waterproof gear) while you swim or stroll along the shore.

3. The next option is to secure your gear in bags you can lock down to a stationary item like a lounge chair or umbrella. Be sure to see the videos below that capture how thieves operate and get inspired to protect your valuables too before you pack your sunscreen and towel.

(VIDEOS ARE AT THE BOTTOM KEEP SCROLLING DOWN)

Guarding Your Possessions at the Beach or Pool

The first thing you can do to protect your valuables is never to leave them unattended. Especially when you go into the water or doze off to catch a few winks.
Store small, necessary items like your car key, spare cash and credit cards and even your phone or tablet inside a waterproof pouch you can carry on your person. Yes, you can go into the water with your phone on your person. Make sure your waterproof pouch is secured to your body as closely as possible so that a wave doesn’t pull it off.

Waterproof waist pouches are better than waterproof neck pouches in the ocean as neck pouches are more apt to float off your body especially if you get hit by a wave.
Use a portable locking safe. Certain bags can be secured to a stationary item like a chair or umbrella, or another immovable object. The Pacsafe Travelsafe X15 Anti-Theft Portable Safe secures essentials in many environments including the beach or pool. You just need something to lock it to like a lounge chair or beach umbrella.

Travelsafe 5l , protecting valuables at the beach or pool

Pacsafe Travelsafe GII 5 Liter Portable Safe

Another bag with built-in locking technology is the CoolBag Locking Anti-Theft Travel Tote With Insulated Cooler. It offers anti-theft features plus a built-in cooler. It keeps things secure and cool, again you just need something to lock the bag to.
Locking Anti-Theft Travel Tote With Insulated Cooler Compartment- Check Price

Alternatives To Keeping Gear Safe at the Beach or Pool

Don’t have the right anti-theft gear with you? Here are a few alternative measures to take.
Try to go into the ocean in shifts so someone is always watching the valuables. If you can’t do this, read on for various suggestions to protect unattended valuables.
Set your towel down in front of a lifeguard tower when possible. The hope is that thieves won’t want to operate near someone who might catch them in the act of stealing while you are in the water.
Don’t leave your valuables exposed – if you must leave your valuables, at least, tuck them under a beach towel. If the item is larger, dig down a little in the sand so the towel remains flat when placed over it. If you have electronics place them in a large zip-lock style bag and bury it, then cover with a beach towel. The bag protects the electronics from the sand. If you do this, make sure the bag is completely sealed. We like weather and water-proof cases specially designed for 100% protection against water and sand. These bags are stronger than plastic food storage bags.
Strike up a conversation with a family near you. Make sure the people remember you and don’t be shy about asking them to keep an eye on your stuff for short periods of time. If you’re generous about sharing things like cold drinks, you can generate enough goodwill to ensure your possessions are watched over even when you’re not there. If you ask another beachgoer to watch your property, remember, you don’t know who they are, nor that they would watch your property as much as you would so make sure you think this idea through – but it is an option if you had no other choice and at least you are selected the person. Most people really don’t mind, and they might even ask you to return the favor.
Take or rent a beach chair and use it to attach a portable safe to or place your beach bag directly underneath it, making it more difficult for a thief to grab it and run. The added cost of renting a chair or umbrella is better than having to replace valuables.

Great Packable Security Safes

The following two beach or pool safes lock to a stationary item (like a beach chair or umbrella) and they also lock closed to keep valuables safe while at the beach.
The beach towel with built-in sand resistant and water-resistant pocket is a less secure alternative, but ideal if you don’t have a chair or umbrella to lock a portable safe to.

SafeGo Portable Lock Box

• Durable plus water and sand resistant
• Lock box has 3 digit combo + key access
• Heavy-duty 17″ steel cable wraps around a fixed object
• Rust-resistant, nickel-plated lock
• Lightweight ABS plastic, easy to pack

Flexsafe Portable Safe

• Ultra slash-resistant portable travel safe
• Water-resistant design
• RFID blocking
• Re-programmable 3 digit combination lock
• Light-Weight & easily packable

Travel Towel with Hidden Water/Sand Resistant Pocket

• Towel with built-in water-resistant pocket
• Conceals valuables while you’re sleeping or swimming
• XL size, 60″x 30″ weighs 8oz.
• Made of quick-drying and ultra-soft microfiber
• Light-Weight & easily packable

These Videos Show How Thieves Work at the Beach

You really need to plan ahead and think about how to keep valuables safe while at the beach or pool before you leave on your trip. That way you can invest in a waterproof body pouch or a larger portable lockdown safe. While more expensive than a body pouch the flexibility of a safe is that you’ll be able to use it in a hotel room, car, vacation rental property, camping, etc. for years to come.

The Difference Between A Travel Charger and Travel Adapter

Do you know the difference between a travel charger and an adapter? Do you need both or just for your destination? Here’s a quick read to clarify what you need to stay power-upped and connected while away from home.

Travel Charger or Converter

A travel charger is also known as a converter. Typically, a travel charger or converter converts, that is steps down, the local electricity to a lower voltage. The US and Canada use lower voltage electricity than most parts of the world. The problem is if you plug in an appliance like your US hairdryer which is made for lower voltage into a higher voltage plug (even when using a plug adapter) it will send too high of an electrical current to your appliance. If this happens, you’ll “fry” your hairdryer or whatever other appliance you plugged in and ruin it, rendering it no longer useful.

Travel Adapter

A travel adapter makes it so that your device can plug into the outlet which has holes that are different than ours in the US. It does nothing more. You may only need a travel adapter. Many of today’s devices, like newer laptops and Apple products like iPhones and iPads, are dual voltage, so you don’t need a travel converter or charger to charge and use them in foreign countries. Most of the time, you will need just adapter plugs when traveling; however, in some cases, you may need a voltage converter (also known as a travel charger). One of the best tips you can follow is to buy your adapter plug and travel converter here before you travel internationally and take it with you.

Universal Travel Adapter/Converter

Read on to the bottom of the article, which explains what universal travel chargers and adapters are. Many savvy globe trotters pack a universal travel charger and adapter device as it’s an all-in-one device. If you’re not sure what you need, read on for a better understanding.

Electrical Appliances work at:
>110/120 volts = USA/Canada
>220/240 volts = Vast Majority of the Rest of the World

More About Converters

International Power Converter/Travel Adapter

Converters change the voltage from one level to another, usually from 220/240V to 110/120V. If your device only operates at 110/120volts (American devices) you will need a converter to step down (or convert) the power supply in your destination country for it to work safely. Your device must be plugged into a converter to change the voltage to avoid overheating or frying. For example, if you are traveling to France from the USA, your American curling iron will need a converter to step down the power voltage in France from 220/240V to 110/120V for the appliance to work.

Converters should only be used with electric appliances, such as hairdryers, irons, small fans, or any appliance that has a mechanical motor. If the appliance is electronic, which contains a computer chip, like a laptop, a converter is usually not required.

Many new electronics are designed to work at both 110 volts and 240 volts. Most devices that are intended for travel, devices such as laptops, cameras, cell phone chargers, and other battery chargers usually do not require a converter. Look for an indication panel on your electronics to verify what power level is compatible. If you’re not sure a quick inquiry to the manufacturer of the item you’re not sure about could save you from ruining your device.

We recommend checking the label and owner’s manual or contacting the manufacturer to be certain!

Is My Device Dual Voltage?

If the electrical appliance has a dual voltage (which means it can run on 110/120 volts or 220/240 volts), make sure the switch is on the correct voltage pertaining to your location. Some electrical items are made to operate at one voltage only. Most laptops, phones, and cameras, however, are dual voltage and don’t even require that you flip a switch. You just need a simple plug adapter to power them up.

Dual Voltage appliances will say 110-220 VAC, or INPUT AC120/240V 50-60Hz 1300W

Single Voltage appliances will say 110 VAC. 120 VAC or INPUT AC120Vac 60Hz 200W

Note: If your appliance is dual voltage, you do NOT have to worry about a converter. All you need is a plug adapter for the country you will be visiting. It is our recommendation if your appliance is not dual voltage and you depend on it buy one that is for travel.

Wattage

Wattage is the amount of power required to operate an electrical appliance or device. You need to know the wattage of the device in order to get the right converter. You want a converter that can handle the wattage required by the appliance plus about 25% more just to be sure. So read the specifications.

Most devices have a label showing the wattage. If the wattage is not listed on the label, the voltage and amperage are usually listed and can be used to figure out the wattage using a simple formula.

Multiply the voltage by the amperage (amps or A) to calculate the wattage. Example: An appliance labeled with a voltage of 110 and amperage of 1.5 is 165 watts (110 x 1.5 = 165 Watts)

Please Note: Converters are NOT meant for long-term use. Converters are meant to change the electrical voltage for small electrical items (such as hair dryers, irons, etc) for travelers for a short amount of time. We recommend no longer than 30 minutes.

Adapters

Adapters are simply connectors that change the plug shape to match the electrical outlet. Adapters allow you to use your device by connecting pieces of equipment that cannot be directly connected to the standard plug. They act as a go-between. You plug your device into the adapter and the adapter into the electrical socket. Throughout the world, there are about 15 types of electrical outlets so chances are that if you travel outside of the US you’ll need a plug adapter.

Adapters allow a dual-voltage appliance or a converter from one country to be plugged into the wall outlet of another country.

travel charger and an adapter, universal travel charger and adapter There are many different wall outlet shapes and configurations. Even if two countries operate on the same voltage, their electrical outlets might have a different shaped plug. Adapters will allow you to interchange the plugs, depending upon the outlets in various countries; however, they do NOT change the electrical voltage.

We highly suggest taking a variety of adapters when traveling because of how many different shaped plugs there are! An adapter kit or an all-in-one device that offers multiple plugs does not take up much room so it is best to buy one before you go. I keep my all-in-one charger and adapter unit, known as a universal adapter/converter, with my carry-on bag, so I’ll never forget to pack it.

Universal Travel Adapter/Converters

A universal travel adapter/converter is an all-in-one device. It’s a travel charger and an adapter all in one. For most people, this is the best option to travel with because you’ll be prepared for whatever charging or electrical need you may have. These universal products handle both jobs and keep your tech gear powered up. These are our favorites from Amazon and all are competitively priced.

Universal Adapter and Converter for Travel

International Travel Adapter and Power Voltage Converter for Hair Straightener/Curling Iron, Universal Power Plug Adapter UK, US, AU, EU, IT, India

Travel Tips

Pack travel adapters and phone chargers in your carry-on luggage. If your suitcase is lost, you will still be able to charge your cell phone &
camera.
Surprisingly, adapters are difficult to find in other countries. We recommend purchasing an adapter kit before traveling to keep your
electronics charged and ready for action! Research which adapters you may need based on electronics prior to your trip, so you have time to purchase
the right one. The best solution is to invest in a universal charger/converter device that converts the voltage and offers adapter plugs that fit most countries.
Bring an external battery for your phone in your carry-on luggage as well.

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Every “how to” article about keeping your valuables secure in a hotel recommends placing them in the in-room safe. So how safe are hotel room safes? Your hotel safe is a very good place to keep valuables out of view and it is a much better solution than trying to hide them in your room. So how safe are hotel room safes? The answer is no hotel room safe is 100% secure, here’s why.

Hotel Room Safes Have a “Backdoor” to Gain Entry

All hotel room safes have a backdoor or “special way” to access room safes so the staff can get into the safe in case a guest forgets the code, or loses the key to the safe, or electronics fail. Some safes may use a master key or card while others may have a special override code to open the door. Either way, when a safe has a way for someone other than you to get in it, your valuables are never 100% safe.

If a dishonest hotel employee does take something from your hotel safe, it is always going to be hard to prove who exactly stole from the safe during your stay, and hotel management may not always be willing to cooperate, especially in foreign countries. Worst of all, without any evidence, your travel insurance usually won’t cover your loss.

Here is a video of a dishonest hotel employee who gains access to a hotel room safe and removes only a portion of the money inside so as not to raise suspicion. It takes place at a hotel in Spain/Canary Islands.

What You Can Do To Help Stop Theft From Your Hotel Safe

Employees know that many people set very simple access code—like 1234 or 0000. A dishonest hotel employee may be likely to try out these codes, making a passkey or override code unnecessary to facilitate the break-in, so the first piece of advice is to make your code a random series of numbers like a birthday or house number that only you would know. The next thing you can do is use a theft deterrent device designed just for hotel safes.

Hotel Safe Theft Deterrent Device

One unique way to secure your valuables inside your hotel room safe is with a device called the Milockie Hotel Safe Lock. The Milockie is a special lock and strap device. It allows you to secure the safe with your own padlock, preventing anyone else from gaining access to your safe. The Milockie Lock fits most hotel safes. It is a deterrent and a layer of additional security that only you have the key or combination to remove the device. Tip: The lock included with the Milockie is not robust. We highly recommend that you use a stronger padlock.

The Milockie Hotel Safe Lock helps protect your valuables and provides peace of mind as it is a visual deterrent to hotel personnel or anyone else who enters your room. The bottom line is not to become completely paranoid about your hotel room, but to use your common sense. Don’t leave large amounts of cash or irreplaceable jewelry in your room. Always lock valuables away out of sight in the hotel room safe and use a secondary lock like the Milockie on the hotel safe to stop the safe door from opening.

Milockie Hotel Safe Lock

A Portable Travel Safe is something you take with you to lock up your valuables. Designed to fit flat into your travel bag it is made with a cut-proof material and locks closed with a steel cable. The cable has an important second function as you can wrap the cable around a stationary item like a bed frame, exposed plumbing, or a clothing rod so no one can just carry off the safe with your valuables inside. This is a useful item for the office, a vehicle, or a dorm too.

Pacsafe Travel safe 12L, How safe are hotel room safes

Portable Travel Safe Fits Laptop and tethers to anchor it in place. Think about anchoring it to a bed frame, plumbing or clothing rod.

how safe ar hotel room safe, portable pool safe

Slice proof portable safe attaches to chair

Should You Be a Victim of Theft From Your Hotel Room Safe

Hotel liability is a confusing issue made even more so by the fact that it varies from country to country, from state to state, and from hotel to hotel. Unless you can prove that a property was negligent, you virtually have no recourse, even if the hotel cooperates and entertains the claim, following up on it—especially if the hotel is in another country—can entail an insufferable wait. That said if you feel that you have a legitimate claim and that the property was negligent, be persistent. And always file a police report as evidence of the crime.

Since hotels routinely refuse claims, explore an alternative source of relief: homeowner’s insurance. It usually covers thefts that occur while policyholders are on vacation, although you may have to pay a deductible leaving you out of pocket in the end. The solution is to do whatever you can to mitigate loss by using a secondary hotel safe lock, or by packing a portable safe.

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e best bet here is to never assume that your hotel door lock is secure. All sorts of people have access to your room, starting with cleaning staff. There are also lots of other ways to defeat hotel door locks including traditional lock-picking and key card magstripe locks. This is why they give you a hotel safe in your closet. Oh wait, people can trick hotel staff into opening the safes or just use a paper clip.

The bottom line is not to become completely paranoid about your hotel room, but to use your common sense. Don’t leave large amounts of cash or irreplaceable jewelry in your room and make sure that you carry copies of your passports with you.

A solo female traveler has so much to think about. Here are a few good tips or at the very least some good advice to consider before you go out on your adventure.

What Solo Female Travelers Should Do Before They Go

Pack so you can carry all your belongings yourself. Use wheeled luggage, and get a bag bungee to secure your tote or another smaller bag even a backpack to the wheeled bag. Combining your bags as one makes moving with them so much easier. The bag bungee device helps you keep one hand free and not at the mercy of others when it comes to managing your bags.
Bags stay together and move as one with a bag bungee, shop
When flying, pack a carry-on bag with enough clothes and toiletries that you can go a day or so without your checked luggage, should your checked luggage be delayed by the airline. Be sure you triple-tag all luggage pieces both inside and out with your contact information and destination.
Outside bag tag should have your name no home address, and destination, plus your cell phone number.
Use a covered luggage tag that can’t be easily separated from your bag. A metal attachment loop is the best style of bag attachment. If your bag is lost it can be forwarded to you at your next destination. A cell phone number is critical too.
Covers personal information and attaches with a metal loop
Inside your bag place contact information with full name and travel schedule with hotels, dates, and instructions to call a cell phone number.
Airline destination tags are put on when you check-in. Be sure the destination on the airline tag is correct. With computer-generated tags these days, it’s rare to find a mistake.
Leave a copy of your itinerary with a trusted family member or friend.

What Solo Female Travelers Should Do En Route

Pick the clothes to wear on the flight. You want something loose and comfortable, plus comfortable shoes. Given a choice, try to go with natural fibers which are safer in the case of fire than synthetics. Your chances of being in a fire are very, very, very small, but all else being equal, pick the cotton outfit over the polyester one.
Do not wear spiked high heeled shoes on the plane. Besides the fact that they are dreadfully uncomfortable, they are rough in the case of evacuating the plane with an inflated plastic evacuation slide. You are well-advised to wear flat shoes when flying.
Be sure to take something interesting to read or watch on the plane (book, tablet or phone loaded with entertainment and earbuds). If an unpleasant traveler sits next to you, bury your nose in your book or movie and keep your earbuds in.
If you’re flying in coach be prepared and pack a travel pillow. An inflatable pillow takes up less room and is lighter to carry than a memory foam pillow.
An inflatable neck pillow supports your head and is lightweight and compact to pack

Hotel Safety Tips for Solo Women Travelers

Whether or not you are married, wear a wedding ring, It cuts down on unwanted attention from men. If you get into a tight spot, then you can casually mention that you are “waiting for your husband,” etc. You can find a simple gold band for not too big of an investment. If you’re married consider leaving an expensive diamond ring at home and travel with a simple gold band.
Resist posting on social media that you are gone, it makes your home vulnerable to a break-in.
When you arrive and need a taxi, it is safer to go to the taxi queue and take the first taxi in line, rather than accepting the offer of someone who approaches you at the airport. In other words, you choose the taxi. Don’t let them choose you. Sometimes in places where there are a few taxis, that isn’t possible, but try to make the taxi your choice. Phone apps like Uber and Lyft are helpful on-demand services. They also provide the security of having each driver thoroughly background checked.
At the hotel: Don’t let the reception “announce” your room number out loud. Here you have to have some common sense. Hotel personnel are (should be) trained NOT to say “Here is your key for Room 306.” Instead, they should say “Here is your key. The number is on the key envelope.” If the room number is announced out loud, and there are other people in the lobby who might have overheard, just hand the key back and ask for another room. Be very polite, friendly, and say you are nervous about others knowing your room number. On the other hand, if the lobby is totally unoccupied, except for you and the desk clerk, no big deal.
Sign the register as “Mrs.” when you get to your room, have the bellman wait while you do a thorough room check. If you are alone, prop the door open with your luggage while you do the room check. Check anywhere else a man could hide – behind drapes, in the shower, behind the shower curtain under the bed, etc. After the room check, thank and tip the bellman, or close the room door.
At night, use a portable door lock that prevents intruders who might have a passkey, and might have tampered with the door chain from gaining entrance. Hotels with electronic key-cards change the access code for the hotel room with each guest. Yet they too have pass keys.

Portable Door Stopper– Stops door from opening and has alarm should entry be attempted

If someone knocks on your door, and you didn’t order anything like room service, call the front desk to verify that a hotel employee was sent to your room. The obvious exception to this is in the late morning when the housekeeping crew is around. No intruder in his/her right mind is going to break into your room with all kinds of hotel employees in the halls.
When you get to your room, check out the emergency exit route. Figure out how you will get from your room to the stairs. Get in the habit of always putting your hotel room key on your bedside table next to your phone. That way, you always know where it is. In the case of fire, you will have the hotel room key right next to your bed. If you decide to leave the room, take the key with you. The door will probably lock behind you as you leave. If the situation is worse outside your room, you will need the key to get back in. Never stay on the 7th floor or higher as ladders of the fire department don’t reach beyond that.

Safety Tips for When Out and About

When you are out and about, walk with some purpose. If you are lost, it is better to stop and ask for directions and head in the proper direction, than to wander around hopelessly. Take a magazine or tablet to read in the restaurants. Someone said once it is difficult for a woman to dine alone without looking like she is afraid she had been stood up. True. I try to beat that by walking in with a magazine or a small book to make it look like I am there by myself on purpose.
On the other hand, don’t be afraid to get into conversations with strangers. It can be fun to meet new and interesting people. The deal is to recognize the con artist types from the genuinely friendly types. The “OK” person will engage in light conversation only and not try to get you to do anything or go anywhere. Avoid the type who wants you to leave the public area, restaurant, park, etc., and go somewhere not public for some other reason.
Do not get into a car with a stranger, take public transportation, or agree to split a cab.
It’s not wise to carry a lot of cash. ATMs are everywhere so you can replenish it. Use the normal common sense around the ATM as you would do at home. ATMs located inside banks are a safer choice than at a free-standing kiosk.
Hotels have safe deposit boxes at the front desk. If you are going to be in one place for more than just a night, you might leave your airline ticket in the safe box. International travelers should leave their airline tickets and passports in the room safe deposit box. Place both in a sealed envelope with your signature written across it, and walk around town with a photocopy of your passport for your official ID. Additionally, you should keep a copy of your tickets and passport on your phone.
Carry a small personal alarm, it can help emergency personnel find you as well as scare aware any unsavory characters. Don’t feel silly about using it. Do you really care what people you do not know in a foreign country will think of you if you use it during a perceived threat?

Wear, or attach this personal alarm to your bag in case of an emergency

As a solo female traveler, it’s smart to take a few precautions so you can relax and enjoy the sightseeing, the museums, the hiking, the scenery, the people, the restaurants, the food, the smells, the ambiance, and all the wonderful reasons you left home in the first place.

The Top Three Places for Germs in Airports and on Airplanes

InsuranceQuotes.com recently conducted 18 bacterial tests on six surfaces at three major U.S. airports and airline flights. According to the results of the test, there are three top areas at the airports and three top areas on the airlines with the largest collection of bacteria most likely to make you sick. Think of high-touch areas, as these are the ones with the most germs.

The takeaway from this study is to pack a few items you deem necessary in your carry-on to counter germs in airplanes for peace of mind,

Hand Sanitizer: Helps maintain hygiene by allowing you to clean your hands when soap and water are unavailable.

Disinfecting Wet Wipes: Useful for wiping down surfaces such as tray tables, armrests, and seatbelt buckles, reducing exposure to germs.

Travel Pillow: Supports your neck and helps you rest more comfortably during the journey.

Travel Blanket: Keeps you warm and cozy, especially during long flights or in air-conditioned environments.

Airports- the top three surfaces with the highest amount of germs and bacteria

Self Check-in Kiosks
Think about how many people have touched the buttons on the kiosks before your arrival at the airport. Regular travelers use kiosks to save time so it’s important to take hand sanitizer with you on your next airline flight.
Airline Gate Bench Armrest
Travelers often wait for an hour or more at the gates. As a result, they use the toilet or eat at the gate benches and touch the armrest repeatedly. Have they washed their hands when they used the facilities? Have they touched the floor when they picked up their bag? It’s a good practice to take a travel-size disinfecting or sanitizing wet wipe with you to wipe down the armrest.
Water fountain button
If you travel regularly, you might consider avoiding the water fountain and buying bottled water instead, even if it is expensive. The newer stations to fill your own water bottle also have buttons that many travelers touch. The spigot that disperses the water should be clean as there is no reason to touch it when filling up your bottle, so you may consider traveling with a refillable water bottle to be eco-friendly and save some money while doing so.

Top three surfaces on board with the largest amount of germs on airplanes:

Lavatory flush button Grab a paper towel and push the flush button instead of using your bare hand.
Tray table. Think about how often they wash those tray tables. Use those sanitizing wet wipes to freshen that surface before you take off. You’ll have better health by the time you arrive at your next destination.
Seat belt buckle. Every traveler is required to wear a seatbelt, so you have to touch it. So use those disinfecting wet wipes on the seat buckle too.

Must-Have Items to always pack…our pro tip is to keep these items in your carry-on bag at home so you always have them ready to go.
Hand Sanitizer
1-ounce travel-sized sanitizing gel bottles are designed to clip onto bags, backpacks, and purses. The mild formula does not dry out the skin.

1 ounce sanitizing gel are designed to clip on to bags, backpacks, and purses. Mild formula does not dry out skin.

Disinfecting Wet Wipes
Sanitizing wipes for on board tray tables, seat buckles and seat armrests on both onboard the aircraft and in airport waiting areas.

purell hand sanitizer wipes counter germs on airplanes

Sanitizer wipes for tray tables, seat buckles and seat armrests on the plane and in the airport waiting area

Travel Pillow
A personal travel pillow is hygienic. Select a pillow with a removable and washable cover for freshness. Many designs will compact down into a small carry case to minimize the room they take up. An inflatable pillow compacts down even more and is ultra-lightweight.

Inflatable neck pillow helps with germs on airplanes

Select a pillow with a removable and washable cover for freshness. Many designs will compact down into a small carry case to minimize the room they take up.

Travel Blanket
A clean and handy blanket can keep you comfortable and warm in the sky. Use it at your destination as an additional blanket for your bed, a picnic blanket, or a lumbar roll on trains or buses.

Cozy, compact and clean travel blanket is clean

Cozy, compact, and clean travel blanket packs down small

It’s worth noting again that we recommend keeping these items with your carry-on or luggage at home so you don’t forget to pack them. They can help keep you healthy, now enjoy your trip!

Guide to the Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks – Which Lock to Choose

What are TSA Approved Luggage Locks?

Where are TSA Locks Recognized?

Different Types of TSA Accepted Luggage Locks & Their Unique Functions

Triple Lockdown Luggage Lock

Tarriss TSA Luggage Lock with SearchAlert (2 Pack)

Sure Lock- Easy to Read and Many Colors

Brinks Solid Brass Key Lock, 2-Pack

Luggage Strap with TSA Combination Lock

Buying New Luggage?

A Guide to the Different Styles of Luggage Locks

Final thought

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