Simple Hacks to Keep Your Valuables Safe While Traveling

10 December 2024

Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but let's face it—there's always that nagging worry in the back of your mind. "How do I keep my valuables safe while I’m out exploring?" Whether you're jetting off to the bustling streets of New York City or backpacking through the serene mountains of Switzerland, that anxiety about losing your passport, wallet, or other valuables can be a real mood killer.

But fear not! There are some clever hacks you can use to keep your mind at ease and your valuables secure. And no, you don’t need to wrap everything in 10 layers of bubble wrap!

In this guide, we'll walk through practical, easy tips to keep your belongings safe while you’re on your next adventure. Ready to stop stressing and start exploring? Let’s dive in!

1. Choose the Right Bag

A Secure Bag is a Gamechanger

First things first: the bag. Picking the right travel bag is like choosing your travel companion. It can either make your trip more convenient or be your worst nightmare.

Opt for a crossbody bag with a sturdy strap. Carrying bags that have sturdy, anti-slash materials makes them less appealing to potential thieves. Bonus points if the bag comes with hidden compartments!

Backpacks? They’re great for comfort but prioritize getting those with lockable zippers. If you’re in a crowded place, think twice before leaving your backpack unattended, even if it's locked.

Anti-Theft Backpacks

If you want to go a step further, consider investing in an anti-theft backpack. These gems come with hidden zippers, RFID blocking, and slash-proof materials, making it nearly impossible for any sneaky fingers to access your stuff without getting caught.

2. Spread Out Your Valuables

Avoid Putting All Your Eggs in One Basket

Ever heard the saying, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”? It applies perfectly to travel. The worst thing you can do is have all your cash, credit cards, passport, and phone in one place. Because if that one bag or wallet goes missing, it’s game over.

Hack: Keep some of your cash in a couple of different spots—like a hidden pocket in your backpack or even in a sock inside your shoes. Sure, it sounds weird, but that extra stash could save your day if something goes wrong.

Pro tip: Carry multiple credit or debit cards and place them in different locations. One card in your wallet, another one in a money belt under your clothes, and maybe one back in your hotel’s safe.

3. Invest in a Money Belt or Hidden Wallet

Stay One Step Ahead of Pickpockets

Pickpockets are pros when it comes to blending in with the crowd. Whether you're walking through busy markets or riding public transportation, you're always a potential target. But you can outsmart them with a well-hidden money belt or hidden wallet.

Money belts are fantastic because they sit discreetly under your clothes, making them unreachable to wandering hands. You can store your passport, cash, and credit cards there, and no one will be the wiser.

4. Use Hotel Safes – But Don’t Trust Them Completely

A Hotel Safe Isn’t Foolproof

Got a hotel room with a safe? Great! It’s a safer option than leaving your things out in the open, but it’s not 100% foolproof. Hotel staff often have master codes or keys that can access your safe, so a little extra caution goes a long way.

Here’s a quick hack: If you're leaving some valuables behind, place them in a sealed envelope, and store them in the safe. That way, if someone tampers with your safe, you’ll know immediately because the seal will be broken.

Bonus Tip: Some travelers even recommend placing a less valuable item as a "decoy" in the safe while hiding your most important items elsewhere in the room—like in your luggage or under a drawer.

5. RFID Blocking Wallets

Stay Protected from High-Tech Thieves

Did you know that modern thieves don’t even need to physically steal your wallet to get your personal information? With RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), they can scan your credit card details from a distance. Yeah, it's as creepy as it sounds!

The best defense? Invest in an RFID-blocking wallet. These wallets prevent your card’s information from being scanned when you don’t want it to be. Luckily, these wallets are available in all sorts of designs, so you don’t have to compromise on style for security!

6. Use TSA-Approved Locks

Lock Up, But Do it Right

If you’re going to lock your luggage, make sure you're using TSA-approved locks. Why? Because non-TSA locks can be cut or damaged during airport security checks. TSA-approved locks, on the other hand, can be opened by airport security using a master key—and they’ll leave your lock unharmed.

But here’s the kicker: don’t only lock the main zip of your suitcase. Get creative and use the locks on side pockets or other compartments where you might stash valuable belongings.

Bonus tip: A simple, coded luggage lock can give you peace of mind if you’re leaving bags unattended in public. Just don’t forget your code!

7. Be Smart About Your Phone

Your Digital Lifeline Deserves Protection Too

In today’s world, your phone is basically your lifeline. From boarding passes to Google Maps, we're heavily reliant on our electronic devices while traveling. But it’s also something thieves love to get their hands on.

What’s your phone’s weakest point? The lock screen. If someone gets hold of your phone and it’s poorly protected, they can easily access sensitive info.

Hack: Use a strong, unique PIN or passcode. It might sound silly, but avoid using a lazy option like "1234". Enable Find My iPhone (for Apple users) or Find My Device (for Android), so you can remotely track your phone if it ever goes missing.

Additionally, consider buying a cheap, secondary phone specifically for travel. Load it with the essentials—maps, ride apps, contacts—so if it gets lost, it’s not a dealbreaker.

8. Travel Insurance (Yes, It’s Worth It)

For Peace of Mind

Full disclosure: Travel insurance isn’t the sexiest topic. But trust me—it’s worth considering. Many people think, “Oh, nothing bad will happen on my trip,” but travel insurance can be a lifesaver if things go south.

Most travel insurance policies cover theft, so if your valuables get stolen, you’ll at least be able to claim some of the loss. Some companies even offer policies specifically for electronics or high-value items like cameras or laptops.

Pro Tip: Don’t just assume any travel insurance will work. Make sure to read the fine print to check what's covered. If you’re traveling with expensive gear, like cameras, ensure they’re insured too.

9. Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi

Protect Your Data Like You Protect Your Valuables

Guess what? Cyber thieves are no less dangerous than pickpockets. When traveling, it's easy to latch onto any free public Wi-Fi, but they are breeding grounds for cybercriminals who can steal your personal data.

Solution? Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) whenever you connect to public Wi-Fi. A VPN encrypts your data, making it virtually impenetrable, and therefore much safer to use in airports, hotels, cafes, and other public places.

10. Trust Your Gut

Your Best Defense? Your Instincts

Last but definitely not least—trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Whether it’s the guy standing a little too close to you in a crowded market or a hotel room that just doesn’t sit right with you, listen to your intuition.

If you feel uncomfortable, move, change your route, or ask for help. Sometimes the best way to keep your valuables safe is to stay a step ahead, and your instincts can be your biggest ally in doing that.

Conclusion

Travel should be about creating unforgettable memories, not worrying about your stuff. By following these hacks, you can keep your valuables safe and enjoy the trip without that heavy cloud of anxiety.

To wrap it up: pick a solid bag, don’t keep everything in one place, use locks, and back yourself up with travel insurance or a VPN. Above all, keep a sharp eye and trust your instincts.

Now that you’re armed with these tips, go ahead—book that flight and start your adventure. Just remember: a little preparation goes a long way!