A busy parent, distracted by a couple of young kids-- what could be a better target for a pickpocket? In many ways, traveling families are prime targets for thieves. Here's some simple precautions.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: Variable
Here's How:
- Before you leave home: check the insurance on your camcorders,laptop, and/or digital camera. It's often possible to separately insure these items for a small cost-- with "zero deductible" (see below.)
- Also: consider taking along some travelers' checks. Automated tellers are a more convenient way to access money; but travelers cheques are like insured cash. Some banks provide free traveler's checks for their customers.
- Make photocopies of your photo ID, passports or visas; this will reduce your hassles if these documents disappear. Store your duplicates in a separate place.
- When possible on your trip, leave passports, tickets, etc. in the safe at your lodgings. Even modest-style accommodations frequently offer this service.
- Also minimize your risk by keeping some cash and an extra credit card somewhere other than your main bag or purse.
- Husbands and wives should each carry their own cash and credit cards.
- If you're loaded with a diaper bag, camcorder bag, bag with snacks, etc., you can easily lose track of your belongings! Consider keeping your money in a mini--purse or pouch that never leaves your body. (See tip below).
- For the serious traveler: keep major valuables (large denomination bills, passports, etc.)in special lightweight travel pouches concealed beneath your clothes, available in any travel store.
- Be aware of common scams, such as the old one-two whammy: one person distracts you (maybe even spilling his/her food or drink right on you!) while a second person plucks your valuables.
Tips:
- A parent busy with small kids is all too apt to forget a purse or wallet in a restaurant. My own solution is to keep money and credit cards in a mini-purse that hangs on a shoulder strap-- I can never lose it, because I never take it off.
- Be especially vigilant when you're being jostled in a crowd: thieves take advantage of such situations.
- Also be vigilant when your kids are clamoring for attention, tugging at your hands, etc.-- I was robbed in Venice when buying ice cream for three excited kids!
