As temperatures rise, you may be gearing up for summer travel. Whether you’ll be taking a semester abroad, doing on-site research, or just enjoying some well-earned rest and relaxation, keeping your devices safe while traveling is essential for a stress-free journey. So let’s talk tech for before, during, and after your trip to keep your devices in top-notch condition!

Before You Go

Get Travel Tech Accessories

Consider the tech gadgets you’ll need. A good power bank or portable charger are crucial, especially in areas with limited access to reliable power. Many countries’ electrical outlets are not compatible with our cords, so you’ll need an international adapter. RFID blocking cases, lanyards, and wallets are a great protection from thieves. Good earbuds are a must on long flights, while waterproof pouches are perfect for vacations on or near water or sand. An eReader or tablet are great ways to take lots of books without adding lots of weight to your suitcase.

Know What NOT to Take

You’ll need your driver’s license and/or passport and your credit card while traveling, but you should not carry your social security card or birth certificate, credit cards you won’t be using, checks, or large amounts of cash. In addition, keep confidential or sensitive data off your devices. If you won’t be working, don’t bring your University-owned device. If you will, keep restricted data in your Pitt OneDrive account instead of on your laptop.

Back up Critical Documents

Keep a photo of your passport, driver’s license/state ID, Pitt ID, social security card, birth certificate, and proof of residence (a lease, mortgage, or bill) saved in OneDrive. You’ll need them if you need to replace your travel documents for any reason.

Save Passwords and Account Info in LastPass

Use Pitt Password Manager (LastPass) to store important data that may be vital if your wallet or suitcase goes missing. Save the passwords for any accounts you used to reserve plane tickets, hotels, and rental cars, along with the confirmation numbers of your reservation. In addition to your credit card number, expiration date, and CVV, also add the customer service number needed to report a card lost or stolen.  

Don’t Announce Your Plans, Except for Those Who Need to Know

You may be excited about your trip, but avoid announcing your plans online. It tells thieves and scammers that your house is empty and you won’t be reviewing bills or accounts for a while. That said, let your close friends or family know your itinerary, and tell your banks and credit card companies when and where you are traveling, so their fraud detection algorithms trigger appropriately. Also, put a temporary hold on your mail, as accumulating mail is a dead giveaway that you’re traveling, and freeze your credit while you’re away.

Do Your Local Research

Research the local laws and customs of where you’ll be, even if it’s just another U.S. state. Pitt’s Global Experience Office relies on the State Department’s MyTravelGov site and its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for travel advisories, security alerts, and important information about local issues. Be particularly aware of substance use regulations (including for medicinal products); restrictions based on gender, sexuality, religion, or cultural practices; and visa or border circumstances.
 

Tech Security and Safety While Traveling

Beware of Public Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Outlets

Avoid accessing sensitive information on public networks. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection, especially when accessing restricted University resources. Make sure you’re not automatically connecting to a cybercriminal’s Wi-Fi or Bluetooth hot spot in tourist areas. Do not use unfamiliar charging stations, cords, or USB drives, as they may be infected.

High-Temperature Tech Safety

Keep your devices at the hotel, in the shade, or in an insulated bag to protect against heat. Also, give your tech some breathing room by ensuring adequate airflow. Avoid covering your devices with clothing or blankets, and set them on a hard surface rather than a grassy or sandy spot that will conform to (and block the vents of) your device.
 

When You Get Back

Post Your Pics and Share Your Travels

Wait until you return home to share your travel experiences with friends, family, and followers. Tagging your location tells criminals exactly where you are. So snap away, and post a photo array when you get back. If you share your adventures in real time, turn off your location settings in each app — including your camera.

Do a System Reset

Change your passwords for all accounts that you used during the trip to ensure they weren’t compromised. Then, run a scan for malware or viruses that you may have picked up. Be sure to clear your cache and browsing history from each device. Lastly, back up all your pictures and other data, so you don’t lose anything important.
 

Happy Travels, Panthers!

As you embark on your summer adventures, prioritize the safety of your technology and your data. By following these tips, you'll safeguard your technology, preserve cherished memories, and stay connected throughout your journey. So go forth, explore with confidence, and let your technology be your trusted travel companion.

-- By Karen Beaudway, Pitt IT Blogger