When you're preparing for a family holiday, you're probably thinking about packing lists, flight times and how to keep the kids comfortable mid-air. But one thing that's easy to overlook is how to protect your personal information while you're overseas.

Travelling can expose you to a range of online risks—from data breaches to device theft—and staying safe online is just as important as keeping your passports secure. A few simple steps can go a long way in protecting your digital information, so you can focus on making memories with your family.

Use a VPN When You Can

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure connection between your device and the internet. It keeps your activity private and helps protect your data, especially when you're using public Wi-Fi. If you're logging into personal accounts, streaming content, or managing bookings while overseas, using a VPN is one of the most effective ways to stay safe.

Tip: Download and test a reputable VPN app before you leave home. That way, you know it’s working properly in advance.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Tasks

It’s easy to connect to public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels and cafés, but these networks can be a target for hackers. If you need to use them, avoid logging into banking apps or entering personal information unless you’re using a VPN. Where possible, use your mobile data or a portable hotspot for added protection.

Tip: Turn off your phone’s automatic Wi-Fi connection setting so it doesn’t join unsecured networks without you realising.

Lock Your Devices Properly

Phones, tablets and laptops hold so much personal data—especially when travelling. Always ensure your devices are locked with a strong passcode or biometric ID. Keep software and apps updated, as updates often include important security fixes. For extra safety, enable two-factor authentication on key apps like banking, cloud storage, and emails.

Tip: Use a password manager to store and create strong, unique passwords for all your accounts while you're away.

Be Cautious With Charging Ports

Plugging into random USB ports can seem harmless, but some ports may be used to install malware or steal data from your device—a risk known as ‘juice jacking’. To avoid this, use your own wall plug when charging or bring a fully charged power bank. If you do need to use a public port, consider using a USB data blocker.

Tip: Pack a dual-port power bank so you can charge both your phone and your kids’ devices without needing public chargers.

Think Twice Before Sharing Travel Plans Online

It can be tempting to share every moment of your holiday on social media, but real-time posts can reveal that your home is unattended. Consider waiting until you're home to post your photos. Also avoid posting images of boarding passes or passports—these can contain personal information that can be misused.

Tip: Set your social accounts to private before travelling and turn off location tagging in your posts.

Use Official Apps Only

Whether you're checking in for a flight or booking a tour, stick to trusted and official apps. Avoid clicking on random links sent via email or text, especially those claiming to be urgent. If in doubt, go to the company’s website directly and log in from there.

Tip: Bookmark your airline and bank’s official websites in your browser before leaving so you don’t risk clicking the wrong link.

Back Up Important Files Before You Travel

Before heading off, back up your photos, important documents, and bookings. Save copies to cloud storage, and consider bringing physical copies of essential documents like passports, visas and insurance details. That way, if anything happens to your devices, you won’t be left without access to what you need.

Tip: Keep a separate USB or encrypted hard drive in your luggage with backup copies, just in case you lose internet access.

Secure Your Kids’ Devices Too

If your children will be using devices while travelling, it's worth taking the time to adjust the settings for safety. Enable parental controls, block access to certain websites, and pre-download games or entertainment so they don’t need to browse the internet while you're in transit. It gives you peace of mind and keeps them entertained safely.

Tip: Install ‘child mode’ or ‘guided access’ settings so they stay within safe apps without accidentally clicking on anything risky.

Final Thoughts

Staying safe online doesn’t have to be complicated. A little preparation and awareness can make a big difference. Taking a few digital safety steps can help protect your family's information from unnecessary risk.

You’ve packed the travel pillows, the snacks, and the entertainment—now you’ve got your data protection sorted, too.