Avoiding Cash and Credit Card Theft While Traveling Abroad
According to Statista, 8-9% of American travelers have had their credit or debit card stolen while traveling. Here are some vital tips to keeping your cash and credit cards safe while traveling international.
Travel lightly. Carrying excess credit cards or cash is not wise when traveling, so only carry on your person what you are going to need for the day. Although it may seem easier to use a credit or debit card, the risk value is far more significant. Sophisticated thieves can run up a bill of thousands of dollars if they are able to steal your credit card or credit card number.
Plan ahead for and carry the right amount of cash and leave the rest behind, locked and secured wherever you stay. There is no point in carrying around your entire cash stash. Planning ahead with the right amount is important so you don't have to visit any ATM's. Using an ATM machine in unfamiliar areas is never a good idea.
Pickpocketing has become a become a global phenomenon, particularly in Europe. Keeping cash in your pockets, or somewhere on your body, is much safer than in a backpack or purse. Ideal pockets will have a zipper or button for an added layer of security.
If you're looking for an even more reliable layer of protection, there a couple of gadgets that are the perfect alternative.
Anti-theft bag
Advice: We recommend finding the type that hangs complete across your body.
Recommendation: Travelon Anti-Theft Bag
An anti-theft body wallet
Advice: To ensure your valuables remain close to your body, a neck wallet with a waist strap should do the trick.
Recommendation: Blissfare RFID Blocking Neck Wallet
A portable lock box
Advice: A portable safe will come in handy no matter where you're traveling. They are lightweight and can easily add an enforced safety measure with a key or combination lock.
Recommendation: SAFEGO Portable Safe
Although the world seems to be on its way to becoming a cashless society, we're not quite there yet.
