How to avoid theft on vacation
The last thing that anybody wants to deal with while travelling is theft. You worked hard to save up for the trip, you got the time off from work, and you just want to get away from real life for a bit. You want to return with positive memories. If you happen to get robbed, however, you’re going to be frustrated and annoyed with everything. The good news is that theft is totally preventable when you travel.
Leave your valuables at home
You don’t have to bring every single device on your trip. Not only does it weigh you down and bulk up your suitcase, it can leave you paranoid about hiding everything. You don’t want to be thinking about your laptop while at the beach. Only bring what you absolutely need for your trip. You can avoid the work email for a few days.
Use the safe in your room
Many hotel rooms come with a safe. Use this to store your cash, passport, and other important items that you can’t afford to lose.
If you want additional security, you can ask to use the safe in the lobby. Most places will have an extra safe or protection for the valuables that you can’t store in your room (laptop or something like that).
Don’t walk around with your fancy accessories
There were some places you'll go that don't feel particularly safe. When you're out at night, bring cash and leave your wallet or purse in the safe. If you aren't totally comfortable with your surrounding, leave what you don't need back in your room. Not only does this mitigate the loss of a theft, leaving valuables at the hotel reduces your chance of being a target for theft on vacation. Criminals in poor countries will notice your fancy watch immediately and take note.
Don’t look like a confused tourist
It never helps to look like a confused tourist. Try to walk with confidence in public, especially when you're travelling alone. If you feel like you’re in a rough part of town, don’t stop to ask foolish questions.
You should also perform some sort of research before leaving for your trip. Either ask someone you trust or read a forum online to know where the dangerous parts of town are located. There’s enough information available online these days that there’s no excuse for stumbling into the shady community.
Watch out for extremely kind strangers
Whether flirtatious or just friendly, anyone that casually gets close to you may be making you a target. Be careful of anyone invading your personal space and be wary whenever someone moves to get close to you.