You don't have to bother with external screen locks, secret pockets, or other spy tactics to keep your phone safe when you're abroad. Your iPhone has a variety of built-in security features to protect your hardware and information if the worst happens.
First, set a password. It's a solid line of defense if someone gets their hands on your device, and can keep them up long enough for other features to function properly.
Another powerful tool is the Find My app. You should set this up when you first get your phone, but if you haven't, you should definitely do it before taking a break. This app can give you an approximate location to provide to law enforcement (don't try to track your stolen phone yourself!) and make a sound to help you find it.
In the worst case scenario, you can also use Find My to completely wipe your iPhone. It won't help you recover your password, but at least you won't have to worry about someone gaining full access to all your banking apps, email, and social media if your password fails.
A sturdy protective phone case doesn't have to be big and bulky, although some cases do. But you need one that can adapt to your vacation environment.
Some are waterproof, which is helpful if you're going to the coast. Others are highly durable and suitable for rock climbing, hiking, or other outdoor activities where severe falls may occur.
Any situation will provide some protection; how much you need depends on where you take your phone. For extra security, invest in a screen cover that protects against scratches and impacts.
03/08
Extreme heat and cold can affect how well your phone works (such as the battery's ability to charge), so keep this in mind when you're out and about.
You don't have to knit a small sweater for your iPhone, but if the weather is cold, it's a good idea to keep it in an interior pocket close to your body. For warmer environments, turn it off whenever possible to save battery and prevent it from overheating.
Whether you're on vacation or not, it's a good idea to choose wisely where you access your information. For example, don't do anything important on public Wi-fi. Examples include banking and shopping.
In addition to this, it is also important to maintain good screen security. If you disclose sensitive information, be aware of others who may see it (standing behind you, etc.).
If you're opting for a screen protector for physical security, you can choose that here, too. Some display covers are designed so that the screen content is only visible when you're looking at it head-on, which prevents people from peeking.
Going on a road trip? If you use your phone to play music or podcasts, don't throw it in the cup holder. Not only does doing so increase the likelihood that you'll misplace it—or just leave it behind—but it could bounce around the car if you stop suddenly or swerve too fast.
For just a few dollars, you can purchase a phone holder to keep your devices accessible, secure, and visible. You also have options. The phone holder can be attached to the windshield, dashboard or air vent. Some can even be plugged into your car's CD player, which you probably aren't using anyway.
Even if you don't use your phone in the car often, it's still a good idea to keep it in your car; if you get a call, you can pull over immediately and answer it without having to dig deep into your pocket.
If your vehicle is AirPlay-compatible, you can make the most of your iPhone by just having it handy, even when you're not on vacation.
06/08
Your iPhone can take a quick dip in a pool or even the ocean, but water isn't your only concern at a hotel pool or beach.
Other problems can be caused by sand, heat or even thieves, so make sure everything is covered. If you must carry your device with you, a few simple precautions can save you some trouble.
- Use a buddy system: Make sure someone is watching everyone’s belongings at all times. This way, you ensure everyone can turn around in the water while their belongings remain reasonably safe.
- Place your electronics in a resealable plastic bag. Doing this will prevent sand and splashes. It might even help hide your valuables from those looking to make a quick grab.
- If you're crafty, you can make a simple bait container out of a bottle of sunscreen (clean it out first). A properly shaped bottle is large enough to store your phone, keys, and other important items, and the likelihood of someone stealing the lotion is much less than an expensive phone.
A quick rule to remember: Don’t do anything with your phone that you wouldn’t do with a roll of cash.
A VPN is a relatively affordable way to protect your data at home and elsewhere. It effectively separates information coming in and out of your iPhone from the activity around it.
One way to think of a VPN is as a pipe running under a river. Your message is like a fish, swimming in a pipe while remaining invisible to anyone trying to catch it. In this case, these hackers are like hungry bears, they will not get food because your data fish is safe in the pipe.
VPNs are also convenient for international travel. Most providers have servers in multiple countries, so if you're in the UK and want to stream a show that's not available there (but is in the US or Canada), you can simply switch servers.
The Apple Watch has a handy feature that reminds you if you forget your iPhone. This notification can save you a lot of stress and hassle by letting you know you forgot your device before you leave the immediate area.
Open the Find My app on your iPhone and select it. Scroll down to Notifications and turn on Notify when you fall behind . Note that this must be an iPhone you've paired with an Apple Watch for this to work; you can't use it on a friend's phone, for example.
With this feature enabled, you'll receive a notification on your Apple Watch once your watch loses Bluetooth connection to your phone (around 30 feet or so).
This feature also works with AirTags, iPads, and other Apple devices, so you can get reminders for your tablets, car keys, and more.
