Tips & Advices
Pro Tips For Traveling Safer During The 2024 Holidays
This holiday travel season will be busier than ever. Here’s how to stay safe.
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When Paul Grattan thinks about holiday travel, he gets nervous. And for good reason.
As a retired New York Police Department sergeant — most of it spent with the city’s Transit Bureau — he’s seen what happens during the busy period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
And as they say in New York — it ain’t a pretty sight.
At the height of the holiday shopping season last December, grand larceny incidents rose 1.5 percent from 2022. “Law enforcement has also seen upticks in organized retail theft and the subsequent sales of stolen property online,” says Grattan, who spent years supervising a plainclothes team in the NYC subway system.
In other words, you better watch your back if you’re traveling this holiday season. And that’s true beyond the city limits of New York.
The holidays can be the most dangerous time of the year to travel
Travel safety is a hot topic this holiday season, according to experts.
“This upcoming holiday season may differ in terms of travel safety primarily due to the anticipated increase in travelers, which could surpass pre-pandemic levels,” says Tim Dodge, vice president of marketing at Arch RoamRight. “High travel periods can lead to increased incidents of loss or theft.”
And that’s not the only difference.
“Travelers face an increasingly complex safety landscape,” explains Frank Harrison, regional security director for the Americas at World Travel Protection. “Several factors are poised to make this year different, including unpredictable weather, rising social unrest, and an uptick in faith-based violence and extremism. Migration challenges and refugee movements add further layers of complexity, particularly with petty crime becoming more prevalent in destinations where resources are stretched.”
So how to stay safe?
Know what you’re getting yourself into
Experts warn that travelers make easy targets during the holidays. Even a small amount of research should allow you to figure out ways to avoid large crowds and minimize security risks. This is particularly true if you’re traveling abroad, where criminals target Western visitors. “Travelers should be mindful of political unrest or heightened security threats in specific areas,” warns John Rose, chief risk and security officer for ALTOUR, a global travel management company. “Stay informed through travel advisories and be prepared for last-minute changes or restrictions on particular destinations.” (Here are the State Department travel advisories.)
Keep your eye on the weather
Holiday weather is notoriously unpredictable in the Northern Hemisphere. “You can count on it being a factor this holiday season,” says Jen Moyse, a vice president at TripIt and SAP Concur, a travel expense management company. “We’re continuing to see storms at unpredictable scale and timing, so travelers need to be prepared for everything and pay attention to weather reports.” There are ways to monitor the weather before and during your trip. For example, TripIt Risk Alerts notify you when potential disruptions like weather events may affect your trip, even before they result in a flight delay or cancellation.
Be ready for anything
Preparation is key, says Carrie Hartman, president of global corporate travel and relocation platform 3Sixty. “Make sure to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers not only weather-related delays but also medical emergencies and travel disruptions,” she says. “If you’re driving, pack an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, food, water, a first-aid kit, and a power bank. If you’re traveling on business, check with your employer or client to make sure it has a strong duty of care in its policies that covers everything from vetted accommodations to real-time support in case of an emergency. Dodge, the Arch insurance executive, recommends travelers consider a policy that covers trip cancellations, interruptions, and delays caused by weather or other covered reasons. “This can alleviate the stress of unexpected expenses and complications,” he says.
Know what you have
Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance, says people often overlook a key step when it comes to protecting their valuables. “Make a list of everything in your luggage,” he recommends. “This is increasingly important if carrying valuable gifts in your luggage. If your suitcase is lost, you have a full breakdown of everything that was lost.” Cronin also recommends taking a photo of everything in your suitcase laid out flat for ease of reference. This can also help if you have to file a travel insurance claim.
If you have to travel during a busy time, take extra precautions
“Stay extra alert in busy places like airports, train stations, and shopping centers since they’re prime spots for theft, especially during the holidays,” advises Jeff Ketelaars, co-founder of Security Guards Only. How so? Keep your valuables in a secure, hidden spot, like a money belt or a crossbody bag that’s zipped up and close to your body. And always keep an eye on your belongings.
Practice better hygiene during the holidays
One of the biggest dangers may be the threat to your health. “With flu season approaching, you can follow a few tips to protect yourself and others from getting sick,” advises Eugene Delaune, Allianz Partners’ senior medical consultant. “Use proper hand hygiene like soap and water or an anti-microbial alcohol-based sanitizer. Wipe down common areas like tray tables, seat backs and armrests with anti-microbial sanitizing wipes.” Delaune, a former ER physician, also recommends covering your mouth when coughing and covering your nose when you sneeze. If you are coughing when you travel, wear a mask. “Avoid travel if you are ill, as you’re exposing others around you to an illness or infection,” he adds. In other words, be a considerate traveler.
Slow down
That’s always good advice, but particularly during the hectic holidays, it can actually save your life. Driving fast on icy roads can be deadly. “Driving on bad roads is stressful enough,” says Jeremy Murchland, president of Seven Corners Travel Insurance. “Build in a buffer and you can remove the worry about whether you’ll reach your destination on time.”
What about those pickpockets?
As to those petty criminals roaming the city during the holidays, Grattan has a few strategies.
Especially during the holidays, you should avoid displaying recently purchased items — especially high-value items or in packaging that suggests they are from high-priced retailers.
“If you see something you like, consider buying it online, or carrying it discreetly,” he says.
Related tip: Consider making more significant purchases as you end your day and return directly home or to lodging. Better yet, have them shipped and won’t have to lug them around town. (Here are a few more tips for keeping your valuables safe.)
“But remaining alert is a tried and true method of reducing the likelihood of becoming a victim of theft while traveling,” he says. “Bad actors prefer to prey on easy, inattentive, and unsuspecting people.”
Keep your personal belongings — your phone, your wallet, your handbag — close, he says. This will drastically reduce your chances of being a victim.
It’s no secret that the holidays can be a chaotic time to travel, but don’t let that deter you from having a safe and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re navigating crowded airports or battling winter weather, preparation is important. Make sure to invest in comprehensive travel insurance, pack appropriately, and remain cautious in public spaces. With a little foresight, you can embark on your holiday adventures with confidence.
Budget & Luxury Travel
Perfect Stay Guide: Must-Have Tips for Effortless Travel Style
Discover how the perfect stay guide can help you choose accommodations that match your travel style, whether you’re seeking luxury indulgence or budget-friendly comfort for an unforgettable trip.
How to Choose the Perfect Stay for Your Travel Style
Choosing the perfect stay for your travel style can make or break your entire trip experience. Whether you’re planning a relaxing retreat or an adventurous getaway, where you choose to stay sets the tone for your journey. The decision often hinges on several factors, including preferences like luxury vs budget accommodations, whether you’re traveling solo vs group, or if your destination is more urban or rural—city vs countryside. Navigating these choices can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can tailor your accommodation to perfectly align with your travel style. Here’s how to approach this important aspect of travel planning.
Understanding Your Travel Priorities
Before diving into specific options, it’s crucial to identify what kind of travel experience you want. Are you aiming for rest and rejuvenation, cultural immersion, or social interaction? Your answers will reveal a lot about the kind of stay that will best suit you.
Luxury vs Budget: Finding the Right Balance
One of the most common dilemmas travelers face is choosing between luxury vs budget accommodations. Both have distinct advantages depending on your needs and style:
The Appeal of Luxury Stays
Luxury accommodations offer comfort, top-notch amenities, exclusive services, and often prime locations. These stays are perfect if relaxation and indulgence are top priorities. You’ll find five-star hotels, boutique resorts, or lavish villas equipped with spa services, gourmet dining, and concierge assistance. For travelers who value impeccable service and extra pampering—often a solo traveler looking to recharge or couples on romantic retreats—luxury stays can turn an ordinary trip into an extraordinary experience.
Why Budget Stays Are Sometimes Better
Budget options like hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels appeal to those prioritizing cost savings without compromising on cleanliness and basic comforts. Backpackers, students, and group travelers often prefer budget stays to maximize their travel duration or spend more on experiences rather than lodging. Interestingly, budget accommodations can also foster community and social interaction, especially in dorm-style hostels that encourage mingling among solo travelers.
Striking the Balance
Sometimes, a mid-range option with boutique hotels or higher-end Airbnb units can combine comfort with affordability. Think about how much time you plan to spend in your room versus exploring the destination—this can help you decide how much to invest in your stay.
Solo vs Group: Tailoring Your Stay to Company
Your choice of accommodation should reflect whether you’re traveling solo vs group, as this can significantly influence comfort, privacy, and convenience.
Solo Travel: Emphasis on Security and Connection
Solo travelers often look for safe, comfortable places that also offer opportunities to meet others if desired. Hostels with social areas, small bed-and-breakfasts, or co-living spaces are great for creating connections. On the other hand, solo travelers seeking solitude might prefer boutique hotels or private rentals where they can enjoy peace and quiet. Importantly, solo stays require accommodations that are easy to navigate alone and offer good customer support in case of emergencies.
Group Travel: Focus on Space and Shared Experiences
Groups, whether friends or family, demand ample space and cost-effective options. Vacation rentals or serviced apartments with multiple bedrooms and communal areas work wonderfully for groups. These options often allow you to cook your meals and enjoy quality time together, enhancing the group dynamic. Hotels offering suites or adjoining rooms can also be convenient, providing individual privacy alongside shared space.
City vs Countryside: The Setting Matters
Your destination’s environment—whether city vs countryside—plays a key role in shaping your lodging preferences.
City Stays: Convenience and Connectivity
Urban destinations are typically bustling with activity, so accommodations here often prioritize proximity to transportation, nightlife, museums, and dining hotspots. Hotels or apartments in the city center or near major transit hubs make it easier for you to explore without wasting time commuting. For solo or group travelers alike, the city offers plenty of social opportunities and amenities.
Countryside Stays: Nature and Tranquility
If your aim is to disconnect and recharge, rural stays provide a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature. Farmhouses, cabins, or countryside inns often embody the essence of peace and offer authentic local experiences. These types of accommodations encourage relaxation and allow travelers to engage in outdoor activities like hiking or stargazing. However, keep in mind the potential trade-off in terms of fewer dining and entertainment options nearby.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Stay
- Read Reviews Thoroughly: Past guest experiences can offer invaluable insights into what to expect.
- Consider Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, and laundry services can significantly affect comfort.
- Check Accessibility: Make sure the accommodation suits your mobility needs and proximity to points of interest.
- Book Early: Especially in popular destinations or during peak seasons, early booking ensures availability and better rates.
Finding the ideal accommodation depends on a clear understanding of your travel style and priorities. Balancing luxury vs budget needs, choosing based on solo vs group dynamics, and factoring in the environment—city vs countryside—will guide you toward the perfect stay. Remember, your lodging isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s part of your travel adventure. Choose wisely, and your stay will enhance your journey, creating memories you’ll cherish forever.
Tips & Advices
A New Era of Travel Security, ETTravelWorld
TripJack has partnered with global cyber protection firm BOXX Insurance to launch CyberSafe, a new cyber security solution aimed at modern travellers navigating an increasingly digital-first world.
As digital transactions and connectivity become central to the travel experience, travellers are now more exposed than ever to online risks. From booking platforms to in-trip payments and remote connectivity, the threat landscape has expanded significantly.
According to recent studies, over 35% of Indian travellers have encountered cyber incidents such as phishing, identity theft, and financial fraud while abroad. Globally, more than one in four travellers report being targeted during international trips.
CyberSafe responds to this growing need with a comprehensive suite of services including identity monitoring, digital risk assessments, guided response support, and educational tools. The aim is to help travellers stay protected throughout their journey—physically and digitally.
“Travellers today face an increasingly complex digital risk landscape,” said Hussain Patel, Director, TripJack. “Through the launch of CyberSafe in collaboration with BOXX Insurance, we’re proud to offer essential tools and support to help our customers stay one step ahead of cyber threats.”
BOXX Insurance brings experience from its operations across Asia, Europe, and North America, enhancing TripJack’s consumer offering in India. The move enables customers to travel with confidence, knowing their personal data is being protected.
“Cyber protection should be as essential as travel insurance,” said Milan Naik, President, BOXX Insurance Asia Middle-East. “Together with TripJack, we’re redefining what it means to travel safely in a digital-first world.”
CyberSafe is now available to TripJack customers across India as part of their wider travel protection suite.
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