How to keep your travel money safe from thieves

Don't be an easy target.

When you are traveling in a new city or country, even if you think that you are blending in with the locals, many behaviors can make you a target to thieves. Being robbed is a frustrating and inconvenient experience under any circumstances, but it can be especially troubling when you are traveling. Saying "shoulda, coulda, woulda" after the fact will not get you your money back, so it is best to take precautions.

Things You'll Need

• Money pocket or pouch (to be worn inside clothes)

Instructions

1. Purchase a money pouch before you leave for your trip. Make sure that it is the appropriate size and type for your needs and that it will fit inside the types of garments you will wear during your travels. Once you arrive to your destination, place the cash in the money pouch before you leave your hotel each morning. Secure the pouch inside your pants or top so that it lies flat and is invisible to the outside eye.

2. Carry your wallet in a front pocket, fanny pack or breast pocket where you can see it. Even if you have stored most of your money elsewhere, you do not want to attract thieves by placing a billfold in an accessible place. Keep the thieves from approaching you by concealing your money.

3. Leave cash or credit cards in your hotel room only if there is a safe. Coming back to your room after a day of sightseeing to find your money gone can be a rude awakening, but is easily avoided.

4. Carry small amounts of cash on your person. Carry only what you need for the next few days. Find ATMs in your location with the lowest fees for cash withdrawal and use them when necessary.

5. Be discrete with your money in public when you are traveling so as not to draw attention to yourself. Use the local currency if you are in another country in order to blend in with other consumers. Be as modest and discrete as possible when paying for food or purchasing items from stores or street vendors.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be especially alert in crowded places.

References

• Independent Traveler: Money Safety

Resources

• Travel Money Belts, Security Neck Wallets, Pouches