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Dress plainly to avoid becoming a potential target and don't wearing expensive jewelry or flashy clothing. If traveling abroad, keep in mind that many nations do not agree with US foreign policy. Whatever your personal beliefs, it's probably a good idea not to flaunt your American status. Avoid wearing baseball caps, college sweatshirts, tennis shoes, jeans, which may "mark" you as a possible target.
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Travel light. The less you have the easier it is to maneuver. |
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Limit the amount of cash you carry while traveling. Bring traveler's checks and one or two major credit cards. Passports, credit cards and cash are most secure when placed in a hotel safe. When carrying them on your person consider concealing them in several places rather then putting them in a single wallet. Also, avoid fanny packs, purses and outside pockets, which are easy prey for thieves.
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Find out if your homeowner's policy covers you for theft or loss occurred while traveling, if not, consider travel insurance. |
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When possible avoid arriving in a new city at night. Attempting to get your bearings after dark poses many safety risks. |
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Make sure to identify your luggage. Put your personal information on the inside of your luggage. On the outside use covered luggage tags to avoid causal observation of your identity or nationality. |
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If traveling abroad, determine what the cultural and political climate is at your destination. Certain places overseas, especially where the US government has removed personnel, present real danger. The list changes frequently, so the best way to find out whether your vacation spot is a potential trouble spot is to check with the Department of State. |
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And if you don't have a security system yet at home, by all means have one installed. Security systems are more affordable than ever and technological advances have made them easier to use. |
