Exploring uncharted streets, tasting dishes with names you can’t pronounce, and snapping selfies in front of landmarks can be a ton of fun. But if you get lost in the thrill and excitement of new experiences, it’s easy to lose sight of your valuables.
When you do, you leave yourself open to negative experiences. According to travel insurance claims data, theft is among the top five travel claims filed. Now, imagine how you’d feel to reach your hotel at the end of the day and come to the sudden realization that your phone is nowhere to be found.
Besides losing a pretty expensive device, you may also lose access to your email and bank accounts. Furthermore, most of us store plane/train tickets and hotel reservations on our phones. So, if this tiny device goes MIA, your trip will most likely be ruined.
Fortunately, keeping your valuables safe isn’t rocket science – it mostly comes down to being sharp and smart about where you stash your stuff. To make things easier, we gathered tips and tricks from experienced travelers, so make sure to check them out!
1. Optimize Your Luggage Choices
Not all luggage is created equal, especially when it comes to keeping your pearls, diamond earrings, emerald rings, or iPads snug. Aim for a bag with a tough-as-nails zipper, unyielding fabric, and a built-in lock that only TSA agents can snoop through.
To add an extra layer, add a combo padlock for your luggage. And, if you carry small and valuable items (like jewelry), place them in tamper-evident bags. This way, you can pass them through security while making sure no one fiddles with your precious items.
2. Insure What You Cannot Afford to Lose
Sadly, no lock or safety system is 100% effective. Sometimes, no matter how many locks and tricks you use, the universe has other plans for your valuables.
So, if you want full peace of mind, it’s best to use travel insurance. Insurance is highly recommended, especially if you’re carrying sparkly items like a piece from this emerald ring collection or a diamond bracelet (to give some examples).
However, before you grab the first travel insurance offer that comes your way, check out the fine print and make sure it covers your needs. For instance, does the insurance cover theft from a hotel room? Is there a cap on jewelry claims? Each policy has its quirks, and knowing them ensures you’re not caught off guard.
3. Tech-Savvy Tracking Tactics
Savvy travelers also use technology to keep their valuables under surveillance. Nowadays, you can use tiny tracking devices that easily attach to your valuables and work with dedicated apps to provide real-time location updates through GPS.
But technology can be double-edged, so ensure you have a backup system in place. Also, place copies of important files and documents in the cloud in a secure file – this way, even if your phone or laptop is stolen, the information they contain remains intact and easily accessible.
4. Hotel Safety Smarts
While it’s only natural to want a budget-friendly hotel, always make sure the room is equipped with a safe. This tiny box is perfect for storing passports, or that heirloom watch when you’re off to ride the waves or trek a mountain. But remember, not all safes are built the same – check if it’s bolted down and test the lock before heading out.
As a rule of thumb, ask yourself: “Will I need this today?” If not, let it sit in the safe until you’re back, especially if there’s no need to flash cash or tech while you’re sightseeing. This way, if some chance mishap occurs outside, you won’t regret carrying highly valuable items around.
Wrap Up
Just because you’re taking precautions with your valuables doesn’t mean you won’t get to enjoy the spirit of adventure. On the contrary, you’ll have the right mindset to truly enjoy your trip. So go ahead, book that journey, and keep these safety tips in mind.
Embrace new experiences and create unforgettable memories, basking in the knowledge that what’s yours stays yours. Safe travels!
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