I've Been Solo Traveling for 20 Years-the 15 Safety Essentials I Always Pack Are on Sale for Black Friday

"Like the book (and my father) taught me, being aware of your surroundings and trusting your instincts goes a long way in staying safe while traveling, but there are some great tools out there to help protect against some of the biggest threats while venturing far from home. For example, I've rigged hotel doors with hangers and ironing boards, but this pocket-sized tool is the far superior solution."

"Anti-theft devices don't just extend to door stoppers and window locks. Nowadays, you can use data blocking cables to save you from being the victim of identity theft or hacking while you're simply trying to charge your devices. I shopped through Amazon's Black Friday deals to find the most essential personal security devices and anti-theft products around, each of which helps minimize the risks of travel and keeps you safe wherever you're headed."

Father's military and pilot experience led to early emphasis on travel safety, including a copy of Gavin de Becker's The Gift of Fear and a door alarm. Awareness of surroundings and trusting instincts remain primary defenses, complemented by practical tools that mitigate common threats. Portable door stops and pocket-sized door alarms secure hotel rooms more reliably than improvised methods. Anti-theft products extend to data-blocking charging cables that protect against identity theft and device hacking. A discreet travel security belt with a secret pocket and TSA-approved construction deters pickpockets. Budget-friendly options are available, with prices starting as low as $7.

Read at Travel + Leisure