Stay Organised and Secure
Cloud Storage Tips for Frequent Travellers
When you’re constantly on the move, the right cloud storage can become essential. Rather than having to carry around a storage device, which is at risk of being lost, stolen, or damaged, you need only carry around your password (and a few other things).
But cloud storage services come with a few inherent drawbacks. It’s worth thinking proactively about how these might be overcome.
Choose the Right Cloud Storage Provider
To begin with, it’s worth noting that not all storage providers are created exactly alike. Some come with features that others lack. Security features like encryption might be important to most users. For others, the ability to engage with the service easily via a transparent, good-looking user interface is just as important. If you know you’re going to be travelling through an area where your cell reception is going to be unreliable, the ability to seamlessly download the entire drive might also be worthwhile.
Organise Your Files with Folders and Tags
Cloud-based storage drives should be properly organised, in the same way as any other storage drive. This matters especially when you’re collaborating with a group of people – but even solo users might benefit from having a comprehensible structure of consistently-named folders, files and tags.
What this looks like in practice might depend on your personal preferences, and those of your colleagues. Whatever your naming conventions are, they should allow any informed user, including yourself, to easily find whatever it is that they are looking for.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication for Added Security
Multi-factor authentication allows you to protect your account using more than just a complex password. By insisting that you log in using your phone, and possibly a biometric identifier like a thumbprint or a face scan, you’ll be able to make your data that much more secure.
Regularly Back Up Your Files
Cloud storage services tend to back up all of your data ‘under the hood’, which vastly reduces the possibility of data being lost. However, if you want to reduce your reliance on the competence of others, you might elect to back up important files in other locations. A thumb drive in your bedside table, or a network-attached storage machine, might provide valuable peace of mind.
Password Protect Your Files Before Travelling
When travelling, protecting your passwords is just as important as securing your files. With all the data you access from various devices—whether it’s your phone, laptop, or tablet—it’s crucial to keep your login credentials safe. A reliable password manager is an essential tool for frequent travellers. These applications securely store and manage your passwords, ensuring you don’t need to remember every single login detail for your various accounts.
Many password managers allow you to sync your credentials across multiple devices, so you can access your accounts from any device you’re using, whether you’re in an airport lounge, hotel room, or café. Password managers are encrypted, meaning that even if your device is lost or stolen, your passwords remain secure. This tool not only simplifies your digital life but also adds an extra layer of protection against cyber threats.
Consider Offline when travelling to remote areas abroad.
When travelling to remote areas with limited or no internet access, offline access to your cloud storage can be a lifesaver. Many cloud providers allow you to sync files or folders to your device in advance, ensuring that important documents are available even without a stable connection. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or exploring a rural area, this feature helps you stay productive and connected, no matter where your travels take you.
Conclusion
Frequent travellers face unique challenges when it comes to staying organised and secure in the digital age. By using the right cloud storage provider, organising your files thoughtfully, enabling two-factor authentication, and taking steps to back up and protect your data, you can ensure that your digital life remains accessible, safe, and well-managed, no matter where your travels take you. Whether you’re working on a business trip or exploring new destinations, these tips will help you stay organised, secure, and in control of your data at all times.