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Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, but it’s also changed a lot over the years, especially for those of us over 50. These days, we’re not just thinking about passports and packing cubes; we’re also navigating digital scams, lost luggage, and how to keep our home safe while we’re away. But here’s the good news: most travel safety risks can be reduced, or avoided completely, with the right preparation.
With my background in forensic accounting and my husband’s work in cybersecurity, we’ve always approached travel with a strong focus on safety and risk awareness. We’ve also travelled extensively over the past several years, both within Australia and internationally, and every trip has taught us something new about what it really takes to stay safe on the road.
Because of our background, things like using a VPN or recognising the early signs of identity theft have just become part of how we travel. But I know that’s not the case for everyone, especially if you’re not used to using digital tools on the go. That’s why I put this guide together: to make security feel simpler, not stressful.
In the sections that follow, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about travel security: from the steps we take before leaving home, to staying protected on the road, and the simple checks we do once we return. In this guide, I’m sharing the travel safety tips and tools we actually use – from staying safe on public Wi-Fi to protecting your identity and belongings on the road. It’s all here to help you feel confident and secure, without turning your trip into a stress-fest.
So, whether you’re planning your first big trip or you’re a seasoned traveller looking to sharpen your safety strategy, this is your go-to travel safety advice hub. Let’s get into it.
When it comes to travel security, what you do before you leave is just as important as what happens on the road. A little preparation can save you a lot of stress and protect you from common pitfalls many travellers don’t even think about.
Here’s how we prepare for a safe and secure trip.
Travel insurance isn’t just a formality – it’s your safety net. While many people think it’s only about medical emergencies, good insurance can also cover theft, cancellations, lost baggage, and even identity theft in some cases.
We always book insurance as soon as we lock in a trip. It gives us peace of mind from the start, especially when travelling internationally. If you’re unsure about whether you actually need it or what to look for in a policy, I’ve written a full breakdown:
An empty home can be a target, and burglars often watch for signs you’re away. From setting lights on timers to pausing your mail or deliveries, a few simple actions can make it look like someone’s still home.
We also let a trusted neighbour know our travel dates and keep exterior cameras running while we’re gone. I break this down more in:
👉How to Secure Your Home Before Travel: 9 Must-Do Safety Tips
These days, travel security isn’t just physical, it’s digital. Before every trip, we take a few quick steps to make sure our devices and data are protected on the go.
We already use a VPN daily, have two-factor authentication enabled, and keep our devices updated with the latest software. We also never allow our phones or laptops to auto-connect to public Wi-Fi – one of the easiest ways for hackers to sneak in. Strong, regularly updated passwords are part of our routine, not just a travel step.
If this all sounds overwhelming, don’t worry, you don’t have to be a tech expert to stay safe. A few simple tools can protect your online banking, personal data, and emails when you travel. If you’re new to VPNs or not sure how they work, I’ve broken it down in this post:
When it comes to security, what you carry and how you carry it matters. We use anti-theft backpacks, RFID-blocking wallets, and always limit the valuables we bring.
You don’t need to go overboard, but a few smart choices can prevent a lot of hassle. I’ve rounded up the products we personally use here:
Losing your passport, ID, or insurance info abroad can turn a dream trip into a nightmare. We always:
To make this easier for you, I’ve created a complete printable:
👉International Travel Documents Checklist
We always share our travel itinerary with a close friend or family member, including our accommodation details and flight numbers. It’s a small step that can make a huge difference in an emergency.
In many countries, you can also register your trip with your government’s foreign affairs department (like the U.S. STEP program or Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad). This means local embassies know you’re in the country and can contact you in a crisis.
Australia used to offer this service, but it ceased in 2019 due to travellers providing inaccurate information. We made a habit of registering every trip and providing accurate information. While it’s no longer available to us, it’s still a smart safety step if your government offers it.
Preparation might not be the most exciting part of travel, but it’s the foundation for peace of mind. The more you do now, the more confident and relaxed you’ll feel once you’re out there exploring.
When you’re finally out there enjoying your trip, the last thing you want is to be on edge the whole time. We’ve found that with a few smart habits and a little awareness, staying safe starts to feel natural, not stressful.
These are the habits and tools we rely on while on the road.
You’ll find free Wi-Fi just about everywhere – airports, cafés, hotels – but it’s not always as safe as it seems. Public networks are a favourite target for hackers, especially if your phone or laptop connects automatically without you realising.
We always use a VPN when we’re online in public and steer clear of logging into things like bank accounts or email. One quick thing to check before you leave home: turn off auto-connect for Wi-Fi. It’s a small change that could save you a major headache.
👉8 Tips When Using Public Wi-Fi When Travelling
We’ve seen scams come in all forms, from fake taxis to overly friendly strangers trying to get too close. They usually work by catching you off guard, using distraction or urgency to throw you off. And while we hate to say it, age can sometimes make us more of a target. Scammers often assume we’re not as tech-savvy or that we’ll be more trusting.
We’ve learned to scan for anything that “feels off”: unusual approaches, offers that seem too good to be true, or people trying to rush us. One of the best things you can do is read up before you go – awareness really is the best defence.
We’re always extra alert in places like airports, bus terminals, and train stations – they’re busy, chaotic, and perfect for quick grab-and-go thefts. I keep my backpack in my lap or between my feet, and we’ve added little locks or clips to the zips to make it harder for anyone to sneak in unnoticed.
If you’re using luggage storage or leaving bags in hotel rooms, make sure valuables are removed or locked inside. We’ve found that a simple luggage cable lock can let us secure a bag to furniture or a rail when needed.
Hotels generally feel safe, but that doesn’t mean you should get too comfortable. We’ve had situations where hotel staff entered the room without knocking, and once even had a cleaner leave the door ajar.
Now, we always:
We never use the hotel safe – they’re not as secure as people think, and many staff members can override them. Instead, we carry our passports and key documents with us at all times. It might feel inconvenient, but it gives us more peace of mind than leaving them behind.
For us, this approach has become second nature, helping us feel more in control no matter where we’re staying.
We travel with a few simple but effective tools:
You don’t need to go overboard, but the right gear makes you feel more confident and less like a target.
Being safety-conscious doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. In fact, we’ve found that preparation actually helps us relax more, because we’re not constantly wondering “what if?”
A few simple rules we live by:
Just because the trip is over doesn’t mean your travel security stops. A few simple steps when you get home can protect you from lingering risks like identity theft, data breaches, or missed claims and set you up for even safer travels next time.
Here’s what we do as soon as we return:
We always review our transactions in the first few days and a week or two later, after returning. Look for any small, unusual charges – scammers sometimes start with low-value amounts to test your card. Even if you didn’t use a card abroad, it’s worth checking.
If anything looks off, contact your bank right away. It’s much easier to deal with potential fraud sooner rather than later.
If we’ve used public Wi-Fi at any point (even with a VPN), we change the passwords on any accounts we accessed while away. That includes email, cloud storage, and banking apps.
This might feel overcautious, but it’s a simple way to stay one step ahead. Travel exposes you to more digital risks, and updating your login info only takes a few minutes.
Identity theft is one of those things you hope never happens, but it’s a real risk after a trip, especially if you lost your passport, cards, or had your devices out of sight. When we get home, we keep an eye out for anything odd – unexpected emails, unusual login alerts, or even strange letters in the mail. It’s one of those “just in case” habits that gives us peace of mind.
For more info on how to spot early warning signs and what to do if something’s wrong, check out:
If you had an issue during the trip, from delays to medical mishaps, don’t wait to file your claim. Insurance companies often have time limits for submissions, and it’s much easier to remember details while the experience is fresh.
We keep a folder of receipts, photos, and any incident reports just in case we need to lodge something. It makes the process smoother and increases the chance of getting reimbursed.
Once we’re back home, we like to take a few minutes to think about how the trip went. Did our packing work out? Were there any times we felt a bit uneasy, and what would we do differently next time? It’s a simple habit, but it helps us feel even more prepared for the next adventure.
This small debrief helps us travel smarter each time. Travel security isn’t just a checklist; it’s a skill you keep building with every trip.
Absolutely – with the right planning and precautions, travel can be safe, rewarding, and empowering at any age. In fact, many destinations are now more safety-conscious than ever before. It all comes down to being aware, prepared, and choosing destinations and accommodation that suit your comfort level.
Yes – especially if you’re using public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, or cafés. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your connection, keeping your data private and secure from hackers. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect your personal information abroad.
👉 Learn more: Should I Use a VPN Overseas? Why It Matters for Travellers
Hotel safes offer some protection, but they’re not foolproof – many can be accessed by staff or reset with generic codes. We personally choose not to use them and instead carry our passports and valuables with us. If you do use a safe, avoid storing electronics or financial items inside.
Start with basics like timed lights, paused mail delivery, and a trusted neighbour to check in. Make your home look “lived in” and consider installing security cameras or smart doorbells. This not only protects your property but also helps you relax and enjoy your trip.
👉 Full checklist: How to Secure Your Home Before Travel.
You should always carry your passport, travel insurance documents, emergency contacts, and copies of your itinerary. Keep both digital and printed copies in separate places and consider sharing them with someone back home.
👉 Download your copy: International Travel Documents Checklist
If you think you’ve been scammed, try to document everything you can – take photos, record names or locations, and notify your hotel or local police if needed. Contact your bank immediately for any financial issues and report it through your travel insurance if applicable.
Yes – even short trips can involve lost luggage, delays, or unexpected medical needs. Travel insurance is an affordable safety net that’s worth having, regardless of your destination or trip length.
Staying safe while travelling doesn’t mean you have to be on edge all the time – it’s about creating habits that help you feel confident and in control. From securing your home before you go to protecting your data on public Wi-Fi and reviewing things when you return, each step plays a part.
You don’t need to be an expert in tech or security to travel smart. A few well-planned actions and the right mindset can make all the difference. Over time, these become second nature, and you’ll find yourself spending more energy enjoying the journey rather than worrying about what could go wrong.
If you’re just getting started, bookmark this guide and use it as a reference for each stage of your travels. And if you’re ready to dive deeper, check out the full Travel Security series for practical, experience-based tips you can trust.
Hi, I’m Lisa Bundesen - the voice behind The Middle Age Wanderer. I’m a retired chartered accountant turned passionate traveller and photographer. Alongside my husband Darren (and with our two fur babies waiting at home in Australia), we explore the world one adventure at a time.
I’ve travelled to over 35 countries, and I created this blog to inspire fellow travellers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond to embrace adventure. Whether it’s hiking ancient trails, diving into new cultures, or sipping wine in scenic places, I believe life after 50 is the perfect time to explore more.
Here, you’ll find honest travel advice, destination guides, and real stories to help you travel smarter and with more confidence - because age is not a barrier, it’s an invitation.
Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.
We would love you to join us on our journeys and hope that our adventures give you encouragement to explore this amazing world.
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