How to keep valuables safe while traveling

Losing things while traveling  is quite common. This anti-theft guide provides practical tips to help you protect your valuables and stay safe in any situation.

 

Protect your handbag like a pro

Imagine: on the left, your backpack is resting in your hand; a complete invitation for a thief. On the right, you wrap it around your legs while sitting - instantly safe. It's a small move, but it makes a BIG DIFFERENCE in keeping your valuables safe while traveling.

 

Why you need this travel tip:

1. Prevent theft: Wrapping your bag around your leg makes it nearly impossible for pickpockets to steal it.
2. Keep valuables close at hand: Everything you need is within arm's (or legs') reach.
3. Perfect for crowded places: Crowded streets, airports, cafes, etc.

Anti-theft tips using hairpins for zipper bags

When you're in a crowd, this is when you need to be on your guard. Pickpockets are always looking for easy targets, and a bag without a zipper is an open invitation. So, is there a simple, easy way to protect your belongings without a bulky lock?

Here's a brilliant little trick: use a large hair clip. Just take the zipper from your bag and hook it to one of the teeth of the clip. Now the zipper won't budge unless the clip is removed first. It's a clever little trick that turns an ordinary accessory into a great anti-theft device.

Why is this simple tip helpful?

1. This is an effective deterrent: As soon as a pickpocket tries to gently open the zipper, they will encounter resistance. The sudden resistance from the clip will block them, making it much more difficult to quickly remove the item.
2. It's super convenient: No need to remember keys or codes. When you need to get something out of your bag, just unclip it. Quick, easy, and you don't need any special tools.
3. It's always with you: Chances are, you or someone you're with has a hair clip on them. This is a simple yet incredibly useful solution.

 

Use a lanyard for your phone

Are you worried about having your phone snatched while traveling? This is a common concern, especially in crowded places. A great way to deter thieves is to make your phone a harder target. You can do this by keeping your phone on a 'leash . '

What is a phone leash? It's simply a strap or lanyard that connects your phone to you. It can be a small loop that you wear around your wrist, a longer strap that you can wear around your neck, or even a strap that clips onto your bag or belt. The idea is to make it harder for a thief to snatch it and run.

Why this is a smart move:

1. It deters "snatch and run" thieves: The rope slows them down, giving you time to react.
2. It provides peace of mind: When your phone is attached to your person, you don't have to constantly check to see if it's there or missing.
3. Here's a simple solution: Phone straps are easy to use, and just a small change can make a big difference in keeping your phone safe.

Bring essentials with you

Watching the waves and keeping an eye on your belongings is a common beach dilemma. You want to relax, but you don't want to leave your phone and wallet out in the open, even when you're wrapped in a towel.

The best way to deal with this is to always carry your most important items with you. You can do this by wearing a waterproof fanny pack, a small bag tucked under your shirt, or a waterproof bag with a neck strap.

Why this method is so effective:

1. Your belongings are always with you: No need to leave essentials unattended on a towel.
2. This is an extremely effective theft deterrent: Thieves will have no chance of stealing your belongings if you are wearing them.
3. It gives you peace of mind: You can swim, take a walk, or simply lie back and truly relax, knowing that your valuables are safe.

 

Separate cash

Sometimes it feels like your wallet is your whole life, right? It holds everything; your identification, a bunch of credit cards, and all your cash. The problem is, if that wallet gets lost or stolen, you lose it all.

Instead, a super simple and smart way to avoid this is to split your money. Keep some cash in your wallet, perhaps the amount you plan to spend that day. Then, keep some more somewhere else, like a front pocket, a small pouch in your bag, or even a money belt. You can also hide a spare credit card somewhere else.

Why is this a great idea?

1. You won't lose it all at once: By spreading out your cash, you'll minimize your risk. If one amount goes missing, you'll have another to fall back on.
2. It provides a safety net: Having a secret reserve of money can be a lifesaver in an emergency.
3. This is an easy one to do: It only takes a few seconds to split the money, but it gives you great peace of mind.