Holiday travel should be relaxing — but when you’re a business owner, work tends to follow you everywhere. And that’s exactly when cybercriminals strike: when you're distracted, rushing, or mixing family time with business tasks. This blog shows you how to keep your data protected while traveling, without ruining the holiday for anyone.
Before You Leave: The 15‑Minute Cyber Prep
Your devices hold access to business systems, client files, financial data, and privileged communication — so securing them before you travel is essential for reducing cyber liability.
Here’s what to do:
• Install all security updates
• Back up key files to secure cloud storage
• Enable automatic screen locking (2 minutes or less)
• Turn on “Find My Device”
• Pack your own chargers and cables
• Charge your portable power bank
Family tip: Bring a non‑work device for kids. A $150 tablet is cheaper than a breach caused by accidental downloads.
Hotel WiFi: The #1 Holiday Travel Risk
Hotel networks are shared by hundreds of guests — and some of them are attackers waiting for someone to slip. Fake WiFi networks (“evil twins”) are one of the most common travel‑season scams.
Stay safe by:
• Verifying the exact network name with hotel staff
• Using a VPN for all work activity
• Using your mobile hotspot for banking or client data
• Keeping kids on the hotel WiFi — and business tasks on your hotspot
“Can I Use Your Laptop?” — The Holiday Question Every Parent Hears
Kids don't mean to cause harm — but they click pop‑ups, download games, and visit untrusted sites. On your work laptop, that creates real cyber liability.
Safer alternatives:
• Just say no to using your work device
• Create a restricted guest account if absolutely necessary
• Supervise activity and block downloads
• Clear browser history and cached data afterward
Streaming on Hotel TVs: The Forgotten Log‑Out Trap
Logging into Netflix or YouTube on a hotel TV seems harmless — until you forget to log out. The next guest now has access to your account, and if you reuse passwords, that risk multiplies.
Best options:
• Cast from your own device
• Set a reminder to log out before checkout
• Download shows to your device before the trip
If a Device Goes Missing
A lost laptop or phone can turn into a full‑blown security incident — fast.
If a device disappears:
• Use tracking tools immediately
• Remote‑lock or remote‑wipe if needed
• Change passwords from another device
• Notify your cybersecurity partner to revoke access
• Follow breach‑notification procedures if required
The Rental Car Data Trap
Rental cars often store contacts, call logs, and navigation data — all of which can expose your business.
Before returning the car:
• Delete your device from Bluetooth
• Clear GPS history
• Avoid connecting in the first place if possible
The ‘Working Vacation’ Problem
Blending vacation with work leads to rushed decisions and lowered security awareness — the perfect time for attackers to strike.
Set boundaries:
• Check e‑mail only at scheduled times
• Use your hotspot for work, never hotel WiFi
• Avoid public workspaces where screens are visible
• Be fully present with family when it’s family time
The Holiday Travel Cyber Mindset
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s intention. With a few proactive steps, you can protect your business while still enjoying the season.
Remember:
• Prepare devices before you leave
• Separate work and personal activity when possible
• Know what’s risky vs. safe when traveling
• Have a plan for when things go wrong
Want help creating secure, travel‑ready policies for your team? Click here to Book your 10-Minute Cyber Risk Discovery Session!
