Heading out on an adventure? Be sure to pack these seven things so you’re prepared for any unforeseen—and unsafe—situation.
Adventure travelers (and, really, all world travelers) know that risk-taking comes with the territory. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare for potential mishaps. Taking certain safety measures when you travel can mean the difference between a successful trip and a scary one. Fortunately, there are plenty of travel gadgets and gear out there made with safety and convenience in mind. Pack these seven items to help ensure your trip is a safe one:
Travel Lock
One of the easiest ways to ensure your bag stays safe is to lock it up. This lightweight, TSA-approved lock with a three-dial combination will keep your bag secure when you’re on the go and at your destination. Its TSA-approved feature is important: Baggage screeners have a secure set of codes and tools they can use to open locks, when necessary, for inspection (they can do so without damaging your lock). If your lock isn’t TSA-approved, you won’t be able to check your bag with it.
Money Belt
Money belts are a great way to keep your cash and cards extra secure while you’re out and about. If the under-the-clothes aspect isn’t for you, though, this discreet money belt is the perfect alternative. It looks (and fits) like a regular belt, but it has a hidden, zippered compartment where you can stash bills, cards, and folded documents. The buckle is adjustable and slim, and made of plastic so you can get through security without slowing down.
Offline Communications
Whenever you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to have a plan for how to communicate with others either near your destination or back home if you need help. And if you’re heading somewhere remote, the tiny and lightweight goTenna will keep your smartphone working, even when you’re completely off the grid. With this handy device, you can text and share your GPS location, as well as access detailed offline maps. You don’t have to worry about the weather when using goTenna, either—it’s made to withstand pretty much any situation.
Luggage ID Tags
Make sure you can easily identify your bags—on a baggage claim belt, a train platform, or anywhere else—with easy-to-spot luggage ID tags. This reflective set includes easy-grip zipper pulls, handle wraps, and mesh window ID tag, and will make even the most common black suitcase stand out in a crowd. When you’re traveling at night or in busier areas, the bright, reflective colors will add an extra level of visual safety for your things.
Solar Powered Lights
No matter how much planning you put into your long-distance hikes, there is always a chance you will reach your campsite at night. To avoid stumbling in the dark, bring your own light source. MPOWERD’s Luci® Solar Lights are compact, lightweight, and worth putting in your bag for additional visual assistance at night. The inflatable, solar-powered gadgets can provide up to 12 hours of light, so they can easily get you through a full night on a single charge.
Water Purifier
If you’re going to be spending time in the great outdoors and away from a filtered water source, it’s important to bring your own purifier to filter out things like chemicals and compounds that could make you sick. The drinkSAFE Travel Tap, a purifier and a water bottle in one, is a great option, as is Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System.
Safety Bracelet
In the event of emergency, a lightweight USB bracelet offers 24/7 access to your emergency information, including medical documents, passports, or anything else someone helping you might need. If you’re not up for something so high-tech, you can opt for a RoadID bracelet, which you can have engraved with your most crucial emergency contact info.
Remember, you may not ultimately need all of these items on your trip, but it’s good to have them with you just in case. Plus, they’ll help give you the peace of mind necessary to focus on enjoying yourself and making memories instead.
While Eagle Creek is here to provide tips and insights on travel, we cannot accept any responsibility for any potential consequences arising from the use of this information. Always conduct your own research and use your best judgment.
Related Links (from Eagle Creek blog):
How to Prepare for a Medical Emergency When Abroad
