Packing your suitcase is one thing, but figuring out the safest way to carry your cash and cards while exploring a new destination is a travel dilemma we all face. With pickpocketing a persistent threat in tourist hotspots, securing your valuables is paramount for a stress-free holiday.
Fortunately, travel safety experts have weighed in on the most secure method to protect your funds, and it might not be what you think. Ditch the obvious and easily accessible money belt; the new champion of holiday security is the humble bum bag, or as our friends across the pond call it, a fanny pack.
Why the Bum Bag Beats Everything Else
The key to its success is positioning. Worn correctly – across your chest with the pouch at the front – it keeps your belongings in your line of sight at all times. Your passport, phone, and wallet are securely zipped away, directly under your nose, making it incredibly difficult for a thief to access without your immediate knowledge.
This method is a significant upgrade from the traditional money belt worn under clothes. Not only are those uncomfortable and sweaty in hot climates, but fumbling under your shirt to pay for every ice cream or museum ticket essentially signals to everyone exactly where you keep your valuables.
The One Mistake You're Probably Making
Experts unanimously warn against the classic tourist mistake: carrying a backpack on your back in crowded areas. While convenient for carrying water and sunscreen, it's a prime target for pickpockets. You are completely unaware of someone deftly unzipping a compartment and relieving you of your wallet.
If you must use a backpack in a busy market or on a packed metro, consider these tips:
- Use a small carabiner clip to zip the zipper pulls together.
- Wear it on your front in high-risk situations.
- Never store your wallet or passport in an outer, easy-to-access pocket.
Diversify Your Assets: Don't Keep All Your Eggs in One Basket
The golden rule of travel money is simple: never keep all your cash and cards in one place. Security experts advocate for a multi-pronged approach:
- Your Chest Bag: Keep a day's worth of spending money and one primary card here.
- A Hidden Backup: Stash a backup credit card and a small amount of emergency cash elsewhere – a hidden pocket in your jeans or a separate pouch tucked deep inside your day bag.
- Hotel Safe: Leave the rest of your cash, valuable jewellery, and your passport securely locked in your hotel safe.
By following this expert advice, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of theft. This allows you to relax, immerse yourself in the experience, and truly enjoy your well-deserved holiday adventure.
