Travel smart with these airport safety tips

Whether you’re welcoming someone you love, saying goodbye, or setting off on your own journey, airports carry a sense of adventure, connection and excitement.

But amid the bustle, it’s easy to forget that airports are also hotspots for criminal activity. Tired travellers, distracted families, and people carrying cash or valuables make attractive targets. That’s why staying alert, both inside the airport and on the road to and from it, is essential.

Here are some practical safety tips to help you keep the journey stress-free.

At the airport
• Keep your bags in sight. Never leave luggage unattended or accept help from strangers with your bags.
• Stick to authorised help points. If you need directions or assistance, go to marked airport information counters.
• Be cautious with personal info. Avoid telling strangers where you live, where you’re going to be staying, or how long you’ll be away.
• Keep valuables out of sight. Jewellery, cash and devices are safer tucked away in your bag.
• Carry less cash. Where possible, use cards or secure payment methods instead.

Getting to and from the airport
• Plan your route. Enter the airport or destination address into your GPS before you set off.
• Keep your car running smoothly. Make sure it’s roadworthy, fuelled up, and unlikely to leave you stranded.
• Look alert. Criminals are less likely to target drivers who seem aware of their surroundings.
• Stay sharp in parking areas. Have your keys ready and scan the area before unlocking your car.
• Watch your tail. If you suspect you’re being followed, adjust your rear-view mirror so it’s clear you’ve noticed, then head for a busy area or police station.
• Think before stopping. Avoid pulling over in isolated spots, especially at night. At red lights in quiet areas, slow down so you only reach the intersection when it turns green.
• Secure your car. Lock doors and close windows. Also, keep valuables out of sight.
• Use trusted services. If you are hailing a ride, check the driver’s ID and vehicle registration, and do a quick scan of the vehicle before getting in.
• Be cautious with strangers. Don’t offer or accept lifts from strangers, and limit unnecessary interactions in airport precincts.
• Don’t relax too soon. Many people let their guard down close to home. Turn down the radio, minimise distractions, and stay alert until you’re safely inside.

Technology can help keep you protected
• Test your Tracker device. A working tracking unit is one of the simplest ways to protect you and your family during airport trips.
• Consider a follow-me-home service. Some security companies offer this. Use it if you feel unsafe.
• Stay safe. Sayf by Tracker offers 24/7 visibility of your loved ones through live location tracking, real-time arrival and departure notifications, and proactive risk alerts. In case of emergencies, Sayf provides instant access to armed and medical response services via an SOS button, ensuring help is always within reach.

Everyday protection starts with awareness. Airports bring joy, but they also demand caution. By staying alert, planning ahead, and using security technology, you can make every trip safer.