The rules for flying have changed significantly, following 9/11. Below are some important tips to keep in mind when you travel. A little prior knowledge can keep your trip on schedule and hassle-free:

•    Know the specific airline regulations for the airline with which you will be flying by visiting their websites,

•    The majority of airlines allow one carry-on bag and what is called a personal bag. This “personal bag” can be a purse or tote-bag, a briefcase or laptop case or even a camera case. It should also be able to fit under the seat if you have another carry-on, because there is often no available storage for two pieces in the overhead compartments.. Carry-on items should be no larger than 45″ (measure the height, length and width–if over 45″ in any of these measurements–it’s too big for carry-on.) Some of the airlines also have a weight restriction. Be sure to check with the airline you’re using before you get to the airport.

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If you are a traveler, whether for adventure, relaxation or business, you want to make sure your time away from home is not only enjoyable, but also without unnecessary hazards or danger. To ensure you and your family’s safety and to safeguard your possessions (luggage, cameras, money and the like) below are some important things to think about. It may seem like anticipating the worst is a negative way to look at life, but the truth is that a little bit of advance planning and preparation can make all the difference between a successful journey and a nightmare trip.

These are just a few important tips to make your travels safe.

Ensure that your insurance coverage caters to any kind of loss or accidents overseas. Your health insurance may reimburse you for medical care while abroad, but most health insurance plans do not ensure medical evacuation in case of an emergency from a remote area.

You could purchase a policy designed for travelers, catering to short-term health and emergency assistance, and especially medical evacuation in the event of an accident.

It is essential to register your travel with the State Department so that you may be contacted if necessary in case of a family emergency at home or because of a problem in the place you might be currently situated in.

Keep a note of the credit limit of your credit cards while traveling, this way you can avoid over charging and cross limits during travel. There have been times when people have been arrested for unknowingly exceeding their credit card limit.

To read more safety tips, please visit: Travel Security

By Matthew Keegan

Traveling to unfamiliar destinations can bring to you the sort of troubles you do not want to experience while on the road namely: robbery, rape, or murder. Tourists often fall prey to perpetrators because they do not prepare properly before embarking on a trip. Let’s examine some things you should do to prevent your travels from becoming a tragedy:

1. Never list your home address on the luggage tag. If on business, put the company’s address on the tag; if visiting friends you can list their address. Use covered luggage tags as well.

2. Stay with your luggage until the luggage is checked. If you must put your bag down, keep one foot on the handle.

3. Carry important papers with you; NEVER check anything that you simply cannot afford to lose. Photocopy your passport, driver’s license and credit cards.

4. Bring a small flashlight. You never know when you’ll suddenly be “in the dark” and find yourself in unfamiliar surroundings. At night, keep your flashlight by your bed.

5. Make sure that your prescription medicines are filled properly and labeled accurately. In some countries certain prescription medicines are forbidden.

6. Never wear anything that projects affluence. No gold chains, expensive watches and rings, luggage, or other paraphernalia should be in easy view. Better yet: leave your jewelry at home.

7. If possible travel with only one or two credit cards.

8. Women particularly should never accept a drink from a stranger. Keep an eye on your drink at all times.

9. Vary your schedule; try not to come and go at the same time everyday.

10. Only stay in a hotel that uses cards to open room doors and make sure your room has a peephole and a deadbolt lock. Secure the chain and secure the door by pushing a rubber stop under it. (more…)