When you’re on vacation, the first thing on your mind is likely the thrill of exploring a new place, the relief of relaxation, and the list of things you absolutely cannot forget to pack in your carry-on bag. The last thing on your mind is likely the uncomfortable thought of getting your belongings stolen.
Pickpocketing is not very common in the U.S. (police don’t even track it, it’s so rare!), so American tourists are not as likely to be concerned about the potential risks abroad that could come from thieves in crowded streets or subways.
But that just means it’s all the more important to be vigilant when travelling. Here are a few tips to keep yourself safe and your vacation stress-free.
As travel expert Rick Steves said, thieves love a good tourist. Tourists are loaded with possessions and can be easy to spot in a crowd of locals. Perhaps don’t read aloud to your fellow travel companions from a large yellow guidebook on a crowded subway. When travelling in a fresh, vibrant city, you may be tempted to dress up as your best glamorous self, but keeping a low profile can help show the thieves you're not a walking bag of money.
Not as many people these days are pulling out and unfurling large paper maps to make their way through circuitous medieval European streets. Instead, people are glued to their phones, analyzing their map apps and lists of recommended restaurants. Still, pay attention to your surroundings. Walk in well-lit areas and avoid large jostling crowds where people naturally are bumping elbows. When sitting down to eat at a restaurant or lounging in a park, keep your bag within sight rather than on the back of your chair. Better yet, loop a handle around your arm or leg so someone can’t run by and snatch it as you relax.
Consider purchasing a money belt, or any other type of cash, phone or card storage that is easily concealed on your body (here are some tried and true ones to consider, from tripsavvy). A bonus of money belts: it keeps your hands free as you’re exploring a new town, visiting museums, or embarking on other adventures. If you’re carrying around a bag, get one with a zipper or a lock, so you know someone isn’t silently reaching into it from behind.
For devices like phones (which, let’s admit, are a lifeline for us all these days), keep them safe by storing them in your front pockets rather than your bags. You can also install apps to track their locations or deactivate them if someone should take them at any point, USA Today recommends.
Are you protected for your travels with insurance? Contact a Sea Mountain Travel Insurance Specialist to find what options are best for you.
