Getting ready for a trip? Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it’s easy to get caught up in planning the fun stuff: flights, hotels, excursions, but don’t forget about your devices. Keeping your tech safe while you travel is just as important as packing a toothbrush.
Here are a few super simple, practical things you can do to keep your personal info safe while you’re on the go:
Lock It Down: Encrypt Your Devices
Encryption sounds techy, but it’s really just a digital padlock. Most newer phones and tablets (especially Apple and Android ones) are already encrypted if you’ve set a passcode or PIN. So if you haven’t, now’s the time.
For laptops, though, you may need to turn encryption on manually (look for BitLocker on Windows or FileVault on Macs). It makes sure no one can snoop through your files if your laptop takes a detour without you.
Turn on “Find My Device”
This one’s a lifesaver. Make sure “Find My iPhone” (or Android’s version) is on, just in case your phone wanders off. For other items, like bags, keys, or even your laptop, throw in an AirTag or a Tile tracker. It’s a small thing that brings big peace of mind.
Don’t Leave Devices Unattended
Seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many gadgets get left behind in coffee shops, airports, and hotel lobbies. If it’s valuable (and logged in!), don’t let it out of your sight. Even a quick bathroom break is enough time for a sticky-fingered stranger to snag it.
Update Before You Depart
Before you leave home, update your apps and your operating system. Most updates include security patches that protect against the latest bugs and hackers, and they’re way easier to install when you’re on fast, safe Wi-Fi at home instead of trying to update in a random hotel with sluggish internet.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi (If You Can)
That free “airport Wi-Fi” or “cafe guest network”? It might also be a trap. Some scammers set up fake Wi-Fi networks to spy on what you’re doing or steal your logins.
Use your phone’s hotspot when possible. If you have to connect to public Wi-Fi, keep scrolling…
Use a VPN (Seriously)
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is like a secret tunnel for your data. Even if someone is watching the network, they won’t see what you’re doing. If you must use hotel or airport Wi-Fi, a VPN helps keep everything locked up and private.
Skip Public Computers
Need to check your email? Use your own device. Public computers at hotels or cafes can have keyloggers or malware that quietly record your login info. Plus, it’s easy to forget to log out, and then the next person sees everything.
Back Up Before You Go
Back up your phone, your laptop—whatever you’re taking. That way, even if your device is lost or stolen, your photos, contacts, and files are still safe. You can restore everything later without starting from scratch.
Your Tech Travel Checklist:
- urn on encryption & set a passcode
- Enable “Find My Device”
- Don’t leave your gadgets behind
- Update everything before you leave
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when possible
- Use a VPN when you must connect
- Don’t log into accounts on public computers
- Back up your devices at home
Travel should be relaxing, not nerve-wracking. If you’d like help setting up your devices for a safe trip, we’re happy to help, whether it’s configuring a VPN, adding encryption, or just showing you how to back up your phone. Visit littledogtech.com or swing by the shop. Safe travels!