Safe Travel Tips

Every year, thousands of travelers fall prey to the quick and clever tactics of pickpockets and thieves. Fortunately, the majority of these thefts can be prevented. Here are some tips to keep your travels safe.

Before You Go

• Research the area: Find out which areas of your destination may be best avoided by reading up on the country before you get there, and ask the hotel staff for more specific information once you arrive.
• Read consular travel warnings: the U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings is an invaluable source for comprehensive, country-specific travel safety information.

Airport Safety

• Safeguard your identity. Passports and other forms of ID are now being imbedded with radio-frequency (RF) tags that can be read by security scanners at airports and retail stores. Unfortunately, hackers have figured out how to scan those tags too, gaining access to personal and financial data that can result in identify theft. RFID blocking document holders and wallets prevent unauthorized access to your personal information.
• Be aware of those around you. Crowded international airports are terrific for pickpockets, as jet-lagged, disoriented travelers are easy marks. Keep a close eye on your belongings, and don’t allow yourself to be distracted if someone “accidentally” bumps into you or drops something in front of you.
• Prevent theft of carry-on items. When going through airport security, make sure that the metal detector is clear and ready for you to enter before you send your carry-on items through X-ray.

Hotel Safety

• Avoid the first floor as ground floor windows and sliding glass doors are much more accessible than those above.
• When checking in, be discreet when disclosing personal information. If the hotel clerk gives you your room number verbally, ask for a different room. If you are a solo woman traveler, check in as Mr. and Mrs.
• Don’t leave valuables in your room. If you must travel with valuables, secure them in the hotel safe.
• Keep the door locked when in your room, and never open the door to unexpected visitors. Use a door stop alarm to alert you to unwanted intruders, and check with the front desk to verify the identity of maintenance personnel before you let them in.
• When you are out for the day, keep the room key with you rather than turning it in at the front desk.
• Park in well–lit areas, and never leave any visible belongings in your car.

Staying Safe

• Don’t draw attention to yourself with expensive clothing or jewelry, as this makes you an attractive target.
• Don’t leave your camera hanging around your neck. When not in use tuck it in a pocket or purse.
• Foil cut-and-run thieves with a daybag or purse equipped with braided steel cable in the straps and steel mesh in the panels. Wear the strap across your body rather than over your shoulder to prevent snatching.
• Don't show your money. Pickpockets observe travelers when shopping, and then later know exactly which pocket to pick. Use a money belt or security wallet to keep your valuables out of sight and close to your body, and tuck a little “mad money” in a front pocket for the day’s expenses.
• If you must use a wallet, carry it in the front pocket, and put a rubber band around it, or use a chain to attach it to your clothing. Divide up your funds so that if your wallet is taken, you have a back up supply (in your socks or elsewhere) to get you back on track.
• Use a personal alarm if you plan to sightsee at night. The ear-piercing shriek will frighten would-be thieves and attract the attention of bystanders.
• Don't accept food or drinks from strangers. They may contain drugs that will knock you out, creating opportunity for a thorough robbery or worse.