How to Protect Valuables While Traveling
Seemingly nothing can ruin your vacation more than having your wallet, purse or cell phone stolen. It can cause you to alter or cancel the remainder of your trip or, at the very least, force you to spend time canceling credit cards and calling your bank. Encountering a pickpocket or theft can happen nearly anywhere, including the finest hotels in the world. Thieves will even strike in a church or steal from senior citizens. Fortunately, with a little planning and knowledge, you can reduce your chances of being a victim. Check out the following tips to help you plan for your next trip.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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How to Protect Valuables While Traveling
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Analyze your trip. Consider where and how you will be traveling, and where you will be staying during your trip. In transit, your valuables will often be out of your hands and you will need to plan for incidents of theft or loss. Consider packing your valuables in a piece of luggage that you will carry with you the entire time. Inquire with the hotels on your itinerary for the possibility of in-room safes to store your valuables during your stay. If this option is not available, ask about putting your items in the hotel safe or guest lock box. Knowing this information in advance will better help you plan for the safekeeping of your valuables.
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Before you leave on your trip, take time to document your valuables in the event that they are lost or stolen. Make two copies of this information: one for your use and one to be left with someone at home. Make copies of your debit and credit cards, both front and back, and include bank contact information, telephone PIN or password and account information. If you are using traveler's checks, make copies of each and detach the stubs. Document your cell phone or PDA account information and carrier contact numbers.Take pictures of your camera, iPod, video camera, jewelry and other valuables. Note serial numbers and other information for possible insurance claims.
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While traveling, make an effort to remain alert for pickpockets or thieves. These people often strike in crowded tourist areas, where tourists are usually focused on something else. On some occasions, street performers work in concert with thieves to hold your attention while their associates make off with your wallet, camera case or purse. Always be aware of your surroundings and the people near you.
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Tips & Warnings
When dining, keep purses in your lap or between your feet.
Put your wallet and passport in a concealed carrier that fits beneath your clothes. This will make it difficult for pickpockets to reach your money.
Limit the number of credit cards that you carry during your trip. This can help limit your loss in the event you become a victim.
Some credit card companies offer theft protection services that will help cancel your accounts on your behalf.
Keep cash in your front pants pocket, where it is more difficult for a pickpocket to reach.
If your cell phone won't work during your trip, leave it at home.
The U.S. Department of State website offers some great tips and more information on possible threats in foreign countries.
In-room safes are not always entirely secure. In some cases, hotel staff work with thieves and allow them access to your valuables.
If confronted, never try to resist. Giving up your valuables is safer than risking injury or death for a few dollars.
Never count money in public.
