Peace of Mind, Packed: 10 Safety Essentials I Bring on Every Family Trip
Travel is supposed to be fun, freeing, and full of wonder—not full of “what ifs.” But after years of traveling with my husband Jake—and now with our daughter Kiah—I’ve learned that feeling safe on the road is what allows me to be spontaneous, present, and adventurous.
When it was just the two of us, I was definitely more relaxed. But traveling with a toddler opened my eyes to a whole new level of planning—and a deeper appreciation for simple tools that make all the difference.
This isn’t about fear. It’s about freedom. Here are 9 safety habits and products I personally use (or now always bring!) to feel confident and prepared no matter where we’re headed.
1. Portable Door Lock or Door Stop Alarm
Even in nice hotels or vacation rentals, I love having a little extra control over the space—especially in ground-floor rooms or older buildings.
Real talk: I didn’t always bring these with me. But now that I’m traveling as a mom, it’s a no-brainer. These little devices take up hardly any space but offer big peace of mind if you’re staying somewhere unfamiliar or with tricky locks.
PS—I carry my favorite door locks in the Cultured Compass Shop because I truly think every traveler should have one in their bag, especially single travelers!
Cultured Compass Picks:
Travel safety door lock
Wedge-style door alarm
2. Carbon Monoxide Detector (Yes, Really)
A lot of Airbnbs and small inns around the world don’t have carbon monoxide detectors—especially in places with older heating systems or fireplaces. A small, battery-powered portable one can literally save your life.
Mom Mode Activated: It’s now one of the first things I place in our space when we arrive.
3. Safe Water Habits (Especially With Kids)
In many countries, I stick to sealed bottled water—even for brushing teeth or rinsing fruit. It’s not just about avoiding illness, it’s about peace of mind when your little one is sharing snacks and exploring the world one sip at a time.
When we’re in the mountains, hiking, or somewhere with unpredictable water access, I’d consider bringing a filter water bottle like LifeStraw or Grayl to stay safe and eco-conscious.
Cultured Compass Tip: Water safety varies from city to city, even within the same country—so always double check!
4. Portable Battery Pack
Your phone is your translator, your map, your emergency contact, your confirmation email—all rolled into one. I neverleave our hotel or Airbnb without a fully charged, lightweight power bank in my day bag.
Cultured Compass Suggestion: Solis Hotspot Power Bank - This travel pack works as a data hotspot for your phone, and a portable charger! I have suggested this for my travel clients, as a good way to stay connected, especially when their phones are locked to their carrier!
Fits in even the smallest crossbody and works like a charm.
5. Backup Copies of Important Documents
This takes 5 minutes and makes me feel so much more prepared.
I take photos of our passports, insurance, and major bookings, and save them to my phone and email them to myself and a trusted loved one who isn’t going on the trip!
I keep a printed copy of my passport in my suitcase, separate from the original
And yes, I do this for Kiah’s and Jake’s documents too.
6. Secure Crossbody Day Bag
Function and fashion. I always travel with a crossbody that sits close to my body and zips completely shut. Especially in crowded areas, metros, or airports, anti-theft features make a big difference.
Look for:
Locking zippers
Slash-proof straps
RFID-blocking pockets
Bonus: hidden compartments for passports or cash
Cultured Compass Custom Crossbody Coming Soon!
7. Ask About Safety at Check-In
The front desk or host usually knows more than the internet. I always ask:
Is the area safe to walk at night?
Are there any streets or shortcuts to avoid?
What’s the best way to get around after dark?
Sometimes I get a basic answer. Other times, I get a golden tip I never would’ve found online.
8. Window Awareness + Childproofing Basics
Here’s something I never thought about before traveling with a toddler: many windows abroad open fully—with no screens, guards, or safety locks.
In older buildings or charming boutique stays, a window can open wide enough for a child to fall through. It’s terrifying—but avoidable with some quick prep.
What I pack now:
Simple outlet covers and hair ties or cabinet locks
Painter’s tape (a lifesaver for light switches, cords, or covering outlets on the fly)
My own mental checklist to do a “child safety sweep” as soon as we arrive
Some other ideas include: Suction-cup window locks or travel safety latches, a baby monitor/ camera, or camera detectors devices (have you seen those creepy Airbnb camera videos that went viral?!?!?!? Not the norm, but still gave me the creeps!)
9. Apple AirTags for Luggage (and Littles)
After a lost stroller saga and a very delayed bag in Europe, I started using Apple AirTags on everything—checked bags, car seats, and even our stroller.
But one of the best uses? AirTags for your child. You can discreetly tuck one into:
A wristband
Their shoe
A zippered pocket on a backpack or jacket
They could be a choking hazard, so make sure they are secure!
In busy places like airports, train stations, or festivals, it’s one more layer of comfort that lets you relax just a little bit more.
10. Travel Insurance (Non-Negotiable—Especially With Kids)
This used to feel like an “extra”—now it’s a must. Whether it’s a canceled flight, a lost bag, or a medical emergency abroad, travel insurance gives you a financial and emotional safety net when things don’t go as planned.
Especially with a child in tow, the ability to access care or rebook without panic is everything.
A little behind-the-scenes: Jake and I often book flights and hotels using points and miles, so we sometimes skip trip cancellation coverage—but I never skip emergency medical and evacuation coverage. That part is 100% non-negotiable for us, especially now that we’re traveling as a family.
And I’ve seen firsthand how critical this is: a close friend of mine ended up needing emergency surgery for kidney stones while in Australia—and the hospital bills reached thousands of dollars. Without coverage, it would’ve been financially devastating.
🛡️ What I look for:
Emergency medical & evacuation coverage
Trip delay/interruption protection (especially when paying cash for big trips)
Lost or stolen luggage coverage
24/7 travel support hotline
Cultured Compass Tip:
As a travel consultant, I partner with trusted providers like Allianz, and can help you understand what types of coverage travelers often choose based on trip style and destination. I’m not a licensed insurance agent, so I won’t recommend specific policies—but I’m happy to guide you toward resources and connect you with a provider who can walk you through it.
Because feeling safe lets you be more adventurous.
The truth? Most of these things aren’t expensive. They aren’t bulky. And they won’t take up your whole suitcase. But together, they give you the peace of mind to focus on what matters—exploring with your family, connecting with a new culture, and making memories that last a lifetime.
Want help planning a trip that’s smart, safe, and spectacular?
Let’s build your dream itinerary together—or shop my handpicked safety essentials in the Cultured Compass Shop, curated for real-world travel and real families.
