Safety begins when you pack. To avoid being a
target, dress conservatively. Don’t wear expensive looking jewelry. A flashy
wardrobe or one that is too casual can mark you as a tourist. As much as
possible, avoid the appearance of affluence.
Always try to travel light. You can move more
quickly and will be more likely to have a free hand. You will also be less
tired and less likely to set your luggage down, leaving it unattended.
Carry the minimum amount of valuables necessary
for your trip and plan a place or places to conceal them. Your passport, cash
and credit cards are most secure when locked in a hotel safe. When you have to
carry them on your person, you may wish to conceal them in several places
rather than putting them all in one wallet or pouch. Avoid handbags, fanny
packs and outside pockets that are easy targets for thieves. Inside pockets and
a sturdy shoulder bag with the strap worn across your chest are somewhat safer.
One of the safest places to carry valuables is in a pouch or money belt worn
under your clothing.
If you wear glasses, pack an extra pair. Bring
them and any medicines you need in your carry-on luggage.
To avoid problems when passing through customs,
keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Bring copies of your
prescriptions and the generic names for the drugs. If a medication is unusual
or contains narcotics, carry a letter from your doctor attesting to your need
to take the drug. If you have any doubt about the legality of carrying a
certain drug into a country, consult the embassy or consulate of that country
first.
Bring travelers checks and one or two major
debit/credit cards instead of cash.
Pack an extra set of passport photos along with
a photocopy of your passport information page to make replacement of your
passport easier in the event it is lost or stolen.
Put your name, address and telephone numbers
inside and outside of each piece of luggage. Use covered luggage tags to avoid
casual observation of your identity or nationality. If possible, lock your
luggage.
Consider getting a telephone calling card. It is
a convenient way of keeping in touch. If you have one, verify that you can use
it from your overseas location(s). Access numbers to U.S. operators are
published in many international newspapers. Find out your access number before
you go.
Check with TSA or your local airlines to see if
there are any restrictions – like liquids, lighters, matches, etc. These rules change often – so – check before
you go.
