Travelling should be a fun, fulfilling thing to do. Unfortunately, being the victim of theft while abroad can put a dampener on this experience.
No matter where you travel, as a tourist you are never immune from the risk of pickpocketing or burglary. So, what can you do to prevent holiday theft?
Stay Alert
Though it might seem obvious, one of the best ways to deter thieves is to always be aware of where valuables are on your person and stay aware of your surroundings.
Using a secure bag (kept where you can see it) and keeping your hand over the zip while walking is one solution, though it’s even better to wear a money belt and tuck it away under clothing.
Give some thought to how you store your luggage in your accommodation too. You could see if your hotel offers an in-room safe deposit box and take a combination padlock to keep your luggage locked if you do not have access to a safe.
Be insured
Should something valuable get stolen or broken while you are on holiday, it is important to report this to your relevant insurance provider. There is no understating the importance of having travel insurance that covers you for the duration of the trip.
If you take a valuable watch or another piece of jewellery on holiday with you, it’s a very good idea to check your watch insurance policy covers travel.
Be organized
The last thing you want to feel when you’re on holiday is vulnerability. Making sure you’re at the top of the organization game takes a weight off your mind.
Ensure your passport and any important travel documents are packed in a safe, accessible place and are ready to go.
Printed versions of travel documents are still a good idea. If devices fail or emails get buried in your inbox, you know there’s a paper version to come to the rescue.
Up your security
The number of security measures you can take is endless. Some of these are common sense, such as walking with confidence and giving off the impression you are somebody who knows the area, as well as not getting too drunk.
There are also various gadgets you can purchase to enhance your security if you want to go the extra mile. A cable lock can be used to secure your bag to the chair when you sit down in a public place. You can also attach Tiles or Airtags to valuables so they produce a loud noise on demand if you lose them.
Pickpocket-proof clothing even exists, with everything from leggings to underwear and scarves that have large security compartments where you can stash your valuables.
Having a plan to keep your valuables secure before the trip is imperative. Only when you minimize the worry factor and prevent theft can you truly relax and get the most out of your time away.
Published by HOLR Magazine.