You are ready to go on a fantastic trip. You’ve packed your bag and stored your favorite paperback novel in your luggage for the lazy beach days ahead. But are you prepared for the possibility of your fantasy trip going awry? It’s easy to forget that traveling can be full of bumps, in the form of both turbulence and challenges. With a little knowledge, you can have a smooth flight.

Prepare for the unexpected.

As a traveler, you must prepare for the unexpected. Investing in an emergency card can be an inexpensive method in ensuring your luggage and personal belongings reach their final destination. According to the American Health Information Management Association, an emergency card can be an invaluable tool, even if you’re not in an emergency situation.

An emergency card can either be handwritten or typed but should include all of your personal information along with your regular contact information. The Center for Global Education recommends that all travelers keep an extra copy of their information with them as they travel on a flight. In the event a bag is misplaced, the airline will be able to locate your bag with the assistance of an emergency card.

Travel with a safe-guard.

Planning to travel overseas? Look into an Air Ambulance Card. This membership plan is the perfect backup when it comes to healthcare beyond the US border. No matter where you’re traveling, an Air Ambulance Card ($189) can guarantee a method of transportation to the hospital of your choice. This can be especially useful for students or young professionals who may be at a higher risk for contacting an illness while abroad.

Unlike regular travelers insurance, the Air Ambulance Card guarantees its members access to the hospital of their choice. All of its air ambulance operators are accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems, and a medical evaluation team is guaranteed at your side in the case a problem arises during transportation.

Keep your belongings secure.

It might seem really tempting to bring your laptop computer on your next twelve-hour flight, but if you keep it in a bag, you should lock it up. According to the Dell & Ponemon Institute, twelve thousand laptops are lost in US airports each week, and two-thirds are never returned.

A luggage lock is essential, especially when traveling with expensive items. Brookstone offers the Big Diggit Luggage Locks ($10) which are certified by the Federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Safe Skies also offers a TSA Luggage Lock ($11.99) in either regular or heavy-duty.

If you practice these safety tips, you can guarantee yourself a trip free of stress and worry. Enjoy the vacation!