The holiday season is approaching, and whether you’re visiting family, taking a vacation, or heading out for a short getaway, your smartphone can be one of your most valuable travel companions.

Before leaving home, take a few minutes to prepare your phone with these three simple safety features.

1. Share Your Travel Plans

Let someone you trust know where you’re going and when you expect to arrive.

• • • Open Maps or Messages on your smartphone.

    • Select a trusted family member or friend.

    • Share your location or estimated arrival time using an available sharing feature.

    • Check in when you reach your destination.

A simple check-in can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

2. Set Up Emergency Information

Did you know your smartphone can make important emergency information available even when your phone is locked?

• • • iPhone: Open the Health app and select Medical ID.

    • Android: Look for Safety & Emergency or Emergency Information in Settings.

    • Add emergency contacts and any medical details you choose to share.

    • Enable emergency access from the lock screen, if available.

Remember, information accessible from the lock screen may also be visible to others. Include only what you’re comfortable sharing.

3. Make Sure You Can Find Your Phone

Losing your phone while traveling can be stressful, especially when it contains important contacts, travel information, and access to personal accounts.

• • • iPhone: Open Settings and check that Find My iPhone is enabled.

    • Android: Open Settings and locate Find Hub or Find My Device, depending on your phone.

    • Confirm your device is connected to your account.

    • Familiarize yourself with how to locate your device before traveling.

A few minutes of preparation today can save hours of frustration later.

Safe Travels From the NCRO IT Team!

Technology should make traveling easier, not more complicated. These simple precautions can help you stay connected, prepared, and confident wherever your holiday travels take you.

For more helpful technology tips, read the latest IT Team Newsletter and follow us on YouTube at @TheNCRO.

From the NCRO IT Team