7 tips to help keep technology items safe when going to the beach

So, if you're worried about damaging or losing your valuables at the beach, here are some tips you should follow.

1. Invest in specialized waterproof and sand bags

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Sand and water pose a major threat to beach equipment. Splashes and spills can penetrate the phone, short-circuiting the electronics, while fine sand and abrasive particles can scratch the screen, clog ports and penetrate delicate internal components. . Without proper protection, these factors can quickly turn a fun day into a costly technological disaster.

To prevent this, invest in waterproof and sandproof bags. These securely seal your device, keeping out sand, water and other harmful elements. Make sure you buy a case with a tight lid and a good waterproof rating. Some bags even maintain touchscreen responsiveness, allowing you to check messages and take calls.

2. Store the device in a Ziploc bag or dry bag when not in use

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If you don't want to invest in specialized waterproof and sand bags for your devices, a cost-effective alternative is to store them in Ziplock bags when not in use. These bags provide the necessary protection against moisture and sand. Just make sure the bag is sealed properly to prevent sand or water from getting in.

If you spend long periods of time at the beach or enjoy being in the water, consider investing in a dry bag. These bags have seals to keep out water and sand, even when submerged. In addition, the dry bag has padded compartments for impact protection and adjustable straps for easy portability.

3. Protect gadgets from overheating

Extreme heat can also damage electronic equipment at the beach. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause discoloration, warping, or pixel damage to the display, leading to temporary or permanent display problems. It can also shorten battery life and cause electronic components to malfunction or fail completely.

To protect your devices from overheating, always keep them under a beach umbrella or in the shade. Keeping them out of direct sunlight will help maintain a safe temperature. Also, bring a portable fan to help cool your devices if they start to overheat when used at the beach.

If you notice your gadgets start to overheat while in use, you can temporarily turn them off. This will pause all active operations and allow residual heat to dissipate effectively.

4. Invest in waterproof or waterproof gadgets

If you frequently go to the beach, always invest in waterproof or water-resistant gear. These units are designed with enhanced seals, special coatings and durable materials to withstand exposure to moisture and water. Before buying, check for certifications like the IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates how resistant it is to water and dust.

For example, an IP67 or IP68 rating means that the device can withstand being immersed in water at a specific depth for a limited period of time. Many smartphones, cameras, smartwatches and headphones have these ratings. Make sure to buy devices from reputable brands and understand these ratings and the difference between waterproof and water resistant.

5. Wash hands before touching equipment

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When removing the device from the protective bag and case, make sure your hands are clean. Sand, sunscreen, salt water and other residues can quickly stick to the device. Sand can scratch the screen, oils from sunscreen can make the touchscreen unresponsive, and salt water can corrode ports and connectors.

To prevent these problems, wash your hands with clean water to remove sand, salt and other residue, then dry with a clean towel. If fresh water is not available, use wet towels. Also, keep a microfiber cloth in your beach bag to clean gear if you accidentally touch them with dirty or wet hands.

6. Use an anti-theft backpack with zippers

Besides physical damage, you also need to protect your technology devices from theft. An anti-theft backpack with a zipper is a great way to keep valuables safe. These bags feature advanced security features to prevent theft, hidden pockets to secure expensive belongings, and anti-slash material to prevent thieves from cutting through the fabric.

7. Don't leave things lying around, unattended

To protect devices, never leave them unattended as they are prime targets for opportunistic thieves. Whether traveling with family or friends, make sure someone is always watching over your belongings. Always keep the device in sight. You can also use a locking box to secure them to a beach chair or umbrella pole.

If you have expensive devices, avoid overusing them so as not to attract attention. Choose a location in a highly visible area with frequent foot traffic. Use a special, brightly colored towel or blanket to quickly locate a remote location. Consider placing a tracking device inside a locked bag, which will help locate it if it is stolen.

Furthermore, always enable anti-theft features like Find My Device on your device. This allows the device to be easily tracked in case of theft. Finally, bring minimal tech equipment to the beach and avoid bringing expensive items if possible.

Lesley Montoya

Update 23 July 2024