Smartphone Travel Tips
doug • August 9, 2017
Smart Phone Travel Tips
“If only I would have read Smartphone Travel Tips before my vacation.”
If only I would have found smartphone travel tips article before my last vacation. No…Nothing like losing my smartphone would ever happen to me because I am so careful. Wrong! While I was loading the car up with take out food at Firehouse Subs. I set my smartphone and wallet on the back of the truck and forgot about it. I drove a mile back to the hotel and realized I did not have my phone or wallet. I looked and it was not on the back of the truck. I hopped back into the truck and retraced my route back to the restuarant. I even went into the Firehouse Subs to speak to the manager and the manager came outside and helped me look. That was very kind of her. We did not see it. All I could think about was the cash, credit cards and personal info on my cellphone were going to be used. I drove back to the hotel and pulled into the parking lot and there in the middle of the parking lot was my wallet, smartphone and cash spread out over about 15 feet. I couldn’t believe it! It was probably laying there for about 30 minutes and nobody touched it! What a relief. I called the Firehouse Subs to let the manager know I found it. She was still out in the parking lot looking for my phone and wallet! I wish I could remember her name. This incident happened on Saturday August 5, 2017 in Pineville, NC. I hope the manager can see this and I would like to know her name so I can thank her.
Nobody – young and old alike – goes anywhere without their smartphone anymore. And, why would you? With your phone in hand, you have instant access to maps, flight details, restaurant reviews, a camera and other essential travel tools. When we are on vacation we are taken out of our normal environment and routine. That in and of itself creates problems. So check out these smartphone travel tips.
Smartphone Travel Safety
But, there’s more to traveling with your device than simply slipping it in your pocket and hitting the road. Do you know what to do if it’s lost or stolen? What if you forget your charger at home? And, how do you use your phone without annoying those around you?
With peak summer travel season upon us, these Smartphone Travel Tips can help:
- Power up: A smartphone is only a great travel tool if it has power, so plug in while you sleep every night. If you forget your charger, check with your hotel — they may have one another guest left behind. Battery always running low? Get a power pack or add-on battery so you can charge without an outlet.
- Lock up: A simple passcode can make a big difference when it comes to protecting the personal data on your phone. And, you might want to consider software that can help you locate your phone using GPS. Many programs allow you to control and/or wipe data from your phone remotely if it is lost or stolen. And, since we’re talking about wiping data, this is a great time to remind you to back up your phone. When’s the last time you did that?If your phone is one of the millions stolen every year, don’t panic. Try to locate and lock your phone remotely, maybe even wipe its data. Then, contact the police and your wireless provider, as well as your financial institutions if you use your phone for banking, paying bills, etc.
- Wrap it up: If you have to take a call, finish it before you get on the plane or sit at the table. Set your ringer to silent or vibrate. And, when you’re in a crowded space, text instead of talking. Others in the vicinity will thank you.
Other tips:
- Know your plan (and your phone)
- Turn off data
- Get a country-specific SIM card
- Airplane mode When flying, you can now use your smartphone in-flight however airplane mode will need to be used. Airplane mode disables talk, text and data but you can still play games, watch downloaded movies or listen to your playlists (see below). Airplane mode is usually found under Settings and is as simple as tapping an on/off button. These smartphone travel tips are helpful.
- Airline apps Most of the airlines now have mobile apps. These Apps provide useful information like flight status and airport directions, also boarding passes can be used here. Just check in via the app and the on-screen boarding pass can be scanned. A bonus tip: take a screenshot of your boarding pass just in case you can’t get a signal at the airport when you need it. The screenshot is scannable as well.
- Download your favorite media Instead of streaming, you are better off saving media (music, movies, video) directly to your device for your travels. You may not always have a data connection and, even if you do, streaming can eat into your data plan and cost you a lot of money. Often your airline will have on-board internet service, you can’t normally stream movies using their connection.
Finally, remember to look up. At least every once in a while, put down your phone and connect with those around you. You’ll be glad you did.
Other smartphone travel safety tips by Forbes
Where is my phone?
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Getting your Spartanburg vehicle tax refund: A guide from Select Source Insurance. Did you sell, trade, or wreck (as in a total loss) your vehicle? Did your vehicle get repossessed, or have you moved out of state? You may be eligible for a refund! We understand that navigating property taxes can be confusing, especially when life events like selling or wrecking a car come into play. Many Spartanburg residents don't realize they might be eligible for a refund on their vehicle property taxes in such situations. At Select Source Insurance, we're here to help clarify the process and ensure you get the refund you deserve. When are you eligible for a refund? Spartanburg County offers vehicle property tax refunds in several instances: Selling, Trading, Wrecking, or Repossessing a Vehicle Returning a Leased Vehicle Moving Out of State before your vehicle tag decal expires Transferring a tag does to another vehicle does not qualify What documentation do you need? The required documentation varies depending on why you are seeking a refund. The Spartanburg County Auditor's Office may require: a Bill of Sale Trade-in agreement A statement from your insurance or repossession company Documentation from the leasing company Your new out-of-state registration. How to apply for your refund? You can apply: in person by email: countyauditor@spartanburgcounty.org. by mail: to the Spartanburg County Auditor's office at 366 N. Church Street, Suite 200, Spartanburg, SC 29303 We're here to help Understanding vehicle property tax refunds can be complex. As your local independent insurance agency, we are here to assist with your car insurance needs and related questions. Here is a link: Spartanburg County Tax Refunds Also, did you know you can turn a vehicle tag in online? Yes, it is called a virtual tag turn in or decommissioning a tag. Here is the link: Decommission a Tag If you have questions about eligibility or need help with documentation, contact Spartanburg County. Informational purposes only. Check with the appropriate government entity for actual process.
Driving Smarter: Understanding South Carolina's New Hands-Free Law As your trusted independent insurance agency, we're committed to keeping you informed about important changes that impact your driving and, by extension, your insurance. South Carolina is taking a significant step towards safer roads with the new South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, which goes into effect on September 1, 2025. This law is a crucial update to our state's distracted driving regulations, and it's essential for all drivers to understand its implications. What Does the New Law Prohibit? Beginning September 1, 2025, the new law prohibits drivers from using mobile electronic devices in the following ways while operating a motor vehicle on public roads: Holding or supporting a mobile device with any part of their body. This means no more holding your phone to your ear, resting it on your lap, or wedging it against your shoulder. Reading, composing, or transmitting texts, emails, app interactions, or website information on a mobile device. Watching any motion, including videos, movies, games, or video calls, on a mobile electronic device. It's important to note that this law applies to a broad range of "mobile electronic devices," including cellphones, portable computers, GPS receivers, and electronic games. Are There Any Exceptions? Yes, there are some specific exceptions where you can still use your device: When you are lawfully parked or stopped. When initiating a voice-based communication that is automatically converted to text, as long as you are not holding or supporting the device. When reporting an accident, emergency, or safety hazard to a public safety official. For navigation, listening to audio-based content, or obtaining traffic/road condition information, provided the device is not held or supported by your body. To initiate or end a cellular call without typing, and without holding or supporting the device. When using equipment or services installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle. Penalties for Violations To allow drivers time to adjust, law enforcement officers will only issue warnings for violations during the first 180 days after the law goes into effect (from September 1, 2025). After this warning period, the penalties will be: First offense: A fine of $100. Second or subsequent offense (within three years): A fine of $200 and two points assessed against your driver's license. It's important to remember that officers can stop you if they have a clear and unobstructed view of you unlawfully using a mobile electronic device. While you cannot be arrested solely for a hands-free violation (unless you fail to appear in court or pay a fine), accumulating points on your license can impact your driving record and potentially your insurance rates. Why This Matters for Your Insurance Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. This new hands-free law aims to reduce those accidents, making our roads safer for everyone. For you, as a driver, adhering to this law is not just about avoiding fines and points; it's about reducing your risk of being involved in a collision. Fewer accidents can lead to: Lower insurance premiums: A clean driving record with no distracted driving violations can help keep your car insurance rates down. Avoiding claims: Preventing accidents means you won't have to go through the hassle of filing an insurance claim, dealing with repairs, or managing potential injuries. Protecting your deductibles: Each claim typically involves paying a deductible, so avoiding accidents saves you money out-of-pocket. As your independent insurance agency, we work with multiple carriers to find you the best coverage at the most competitive rates. By driving responsibly and complying with the new hands-free law, you're not only contributing to safer communities but also actively helping to protect your insurance standing. If you have any questions about how this new law might affect your specific insurance policy or if you'd like to review your current coverage, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you navigate these changes and ensure you're well-protected on the road.
South Carolina Teens will have to wait! Coming Soon: Stronger, Safer SC Driver's Licenses Are On The Way! As your trusted independent insurance agency in Spartanburg, we're always looking out for updates that impact our community. That's why we want to bring your attention to an important change coming to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) this fall: the rollout of more secure driver's licenses, beginner's permits, and identification cards. This isn't just a cosmetic update; it's a significant step forward in protecting South Carolinians from identity fraud and ensuring the integrity of our official identification documents. What's Changing and Why It Matters The SCDMV is modernizing the way licenses and ID cards are produced, incorporating advanced security features and upgraded materials. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect and why these changes are so beneficial: Enhanced Security Features: The new cards will be made from stronger materials and utilize state-of-the-art printing techniques, including laser engraving. This makes them significantly more resistant to counterfeiting, providing better protection against identity theft for you and a more reliable credential for law enforcement and businesses. Centralized Issuance: South Carolina is joining at least 45 other states and the District of Columbia in centralizing the production of all licenses, permits, and ID cards. This process enhances efficiency and allows for the inclusion of high-level security elements that weren't previously feasible. New Look, Familiar Symbols: While specific design details are still to be announced, the new cards will prominently feature iconic South Carolina symbols like the Palmetto Tree and the State House, making them both secure and a proud representation of our state. What Does This Mean for You? Good news! You do not need to take any immediate action. Your current South Carolina driver's license or identification card remains valid until its listed expiration date. However, here's what to keep in mind for new applications or renewals: In-Person Application, Mail Delivery: Beginning this fall, you will still apply for licenses or ID cards in person at SCDMV branches. You'll present your required documentation and complete any applicable testing. Temporary Certificate: Instead of walking out with your permanent card, you'll receive a temporary driving certificate or identification certificate. This temporary document will be valid for driving, voting, and other uses while you await your permanent card. Mail Delivery for Permanent Card: Your new, permanent, secure card will arrive by U.S. mail within 7-15 business days. Don't Wait Until the Last Minute: If your license is nearing expiration, the SCDMV encourages you not to wait until the very last day to renew. Since the new cards will be mailed, allow ample time for delivery. REAL ID Remains Important: While separate from this security upgrade, remember the importance of a REAL ID. As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID compliant driver's license (indicated by a gold star) or another federally approved identification (like a valid U.S. Passport) is required to board domestic commercial flights or enter secure federal facilities. If you plan to fly or access federal buildings, ensure your current license is REAL ID compliant or plan to obtain one during your next renewal. We believe these advancements from the SCDMV are a positive step for all South Carolinians. A more secure driver's license helps protect your personal information and provides greater peace of mind in our increasingly digital world. As always, if you have any questions about how these changes might impact your insurance needs, or if you need assistance with any of your personal or business insurance policies, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you navigate these updates and ensure you're always well-protected. More information here: South Carolina DMV - Roll Out