Traveling abroad with your cell phone and work devices: Essential tips for business travelers and digital nomads

February 24, 2025

In today’s interconnected world, business travel is more common than ever, whether for short trips or extended stays that blend work and leisure. Whether you're traveling internationally or domestically, keeping your work devices, such as laptops and cell phones, secure and functional is crucial. We strongly recommend buying a travel protection plan to cover you against losses in case your devices are lost or stolen during your business trip. In addition, here are some essential tips to ensure your devices are protected:

Choose secure locations and Wi-Fi networks

When traveling, it's crucial to be mindful of where and how you use your devices. Avoid using your phone or laptop in crowded areas to minimize the risk of theft and if you need to check emails or work on documents, find a location with a secure internet connection, such as a café or store.

Public Wi-Fi networks, while convenient, can pose significant security risks, so change your device settings to prevent automatic connections and use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data, especially if you handle confidential information.

Once you're about to leave, make sure to double-check that you have your device with you and consider using a slash-proof pack for added security in high-risk areas.

Manage your data usage

For international travel, managing your data usage is crucial to avoid unexpected charges and potential security risks. Consider using a local SIM card or an international data plan to stay connected without incurring high roaming fees. This is particularly useful for those who may be traveling for extended periods.

Research and compare different options to find the best plan for your needs. Additionally, turn off cellular data and roaming on your device to prevent automatic connections to potentially insecure networks. By managing your data usage, you can stay connected without breaking the bank and reduce the risk of data breaches.

Backup your data

Before you travel, ensure that all important data is backed up. This can be done through cloud services or external hard drives. In the event of a device theft or loss, having a backup ensures that you don’t lose critical information. For digital nomads, this is a must, as you may be traveling to multiple locations where the risk of device loss is higher.

Consider travel protection

Travel insurance plans, such as UnitedHealthcare Global's SafeTrip, can offer comprehensive protection for your work devices. Coverage typically includes theft, loss and damage, providing you with the necessary support in case of an emergency. For instance, if your laptop is stolen, SafeTrip can help you replace the device. This coverage can be a lifesaver, especially during international travel where the risk of such incidents may be higher.

Stay informed about local electrical systems

When traveling internationally, ensure your chargers are compatible with the local electrical systems. Bring the necessary adapters or converters to avoid any issues. This is particularly important for laptops and other devices that require specific voltage settings. Checking the electrical standards of your destination in advance can save you from the inconvenience of incompatible chargers.

Set specific times for work

To balance the need to stay connected with the desire to enjoy your travel experience, set specific times to check emails and work-related tasks. This allows you to disconnect and fully enjoy your surroundings during other times. For those who travel with family or blending work and leisure, this can help maintain a healthy work-life balance while on the road. It’s important to set boundaries to avoid burnout and ensure you have time to relax and recharge.

Stay vigilant and informed

Keep an eye on travel advisories and local news to stay aware of any potential risks in your destination. With our International Travel Medical and International Travel Medical Plus plans you will have access to destination profiles, that allow you to always stay up-to-date on the latest security and medical updates of your travel destination down to city level.

Furthermore, we recommend to regularly update your device’s software and security settings to protect against new vulnerabilities. Being proactive can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

By following these tips and considering travel insurance like UnitedHealthcare Global's SafeTrip, you can ensure that your work devices remain secure and functional, allowing you to focus on your travel and work goals without unnecessary stress. Whether you’re on a short business trip or a longer family vacation, these precautions will help you stay connected and protected.