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Protecting Your Belongings While Traveling Alone

Solo travel is the B E S T. You can go wherever you want, whenever you want. Your sleep schedule, menu, itinerary, modes of transportation— everything is up to you!  We could list hundreds of reasons why we love to see the world solo, but we’d go on forever. Instead, we’re here to help you navigate one of the trickier aspects of traveling alone; keeping your things secure. After all, not only is having your backpack, wallet, or passport stolen inconvenient, it can lead to bigger long-term problems, like identity theft. Nip it in the bud by staying vigilant and following these tips:

Keep it Safe in a Safe

Many solo travelers assume that staying in a private room diminishes their chances of having their things nicked while they’re out and about. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case— break-ins happen, untrustworthy housekeep happens, and it’s always best to be prepared. For starters, don’t leave your stuff laying about when you leave your hotel room. Stow your passport, jewelry, money, tech items, or even chargers, which indicate electronics on-site away and close the curtains and windows to your room when you leave. Most private hotel rooms have the option to use or hire a safe— take that opportunity seriously.

Going for a Swim?

One of the trickiest situations for a solo traveler is finding a secure way to go for a dip. We spoke to some seasoned travelers, and came away with the following tips:

  • Only take the essentials like the keys to your accommodation, and exactly the amount of money you need for the outing.

  • Invest in a “swim security” product, like a waterproof clip-on case, or a portable buoy that doubles as storage.

  • Bring a portable safe, which you can strap to a pole or a tree.

Don’t Assume you can Trust your “Roommates”

Generally, staying in a dorm-style hostel room is a great experience! It’s an easy way to meet new people from all around the world and gives the solo backpacker the chance to explore a new place with others if they so choose. However, as with any group of strangers, there’s always the chance that one or two of them might not be so charming. Protect your things from opportunistic roommates by utilizing one of the lockers that are generally onsite at hostels. It’s also a good idea to sleep with your wallet, electronics, and passport in bed with you.

Pack Accordingly

When you set off for your solo trip, take stock of what you’re bringing and really consider if you’ll need it. Expensive jewelry, excessive credit cards, debit cards, and unnecessary electronics will probably get less use than you think they will, anyway. Beyond that, if you’re traveling with a debit card you may not be protected if you lose it and someone adds fraudulent charges. Save room in your suitcase for souvenirs and leave your valuables back home with a trusted friend or family member.

Keep Your Wits About You

You are in charge of your own security when you travel alone---and that’s great! Be mindful of your surroundings and don’t flaunt what you have to steal. In busy areas, don’t wear flashy jewelry or clearly designer accessories. When you’re out and about, especially at night, try not to spend too much time on your phone, and don’t listen to music on your headphones— pay attention to what’s going on around you instead.

Know What to do in Case

Sometimes, taking all the right steps isn’t enough. If your things—  especially your wallet or passport— are stolen while you’re traveling alone, it’s going to be okay. Take a deep breath, and then:

  • If your wallet has gone missing or is stolen, inform your bank of the security breach and cancel all of your credit and debit cards. Begin the process of ordering a new card ASAP.

  • If your passport is gone, contact your local embassy as soon as possible.

  • Begin the steps of filing for a new passport, from embassy getting your photo taken to filing the appropriate forms. Your consulate should be able to help you with these steps, but it’s best to prepare in advance.

  • File a police report— this is not required, but it is still a good idea.

  • Remember that your new passport or cards will arrive, and this situation is only temporary.

 

by contributing writer Sam Casteris