Traveling is a great way to test your level of maturity and the way you handle responsibility, since a lot of things can happen while you’re on the road. You don’t only have to take care of yourself, you must also know how to keep your belongings safe. There are many precautionary measures you can take like using tamper evident seals, luggage tags, padlocks, and the like. By using these tamper-proof seals, you will easily know if your luggage has been tampered with. When your bags come out of the airport carousel with the security seals broken, then you can easily report the incident to airport officials.
Below are other ways you can keep your luggage secure when you travel.
- Store all important items in one place.
When traveling, there is no assurance that your valuables will be kept safe no matter what kind of security measure you use. To be sure, you must store important items like cash, wallet, credit cards, your passport, airline tickets, and IDs in a separate bag that you can carry at all times. It would be advisable to use a clear or transparent bag, that way it will be easier for you to check if anything goes missing.
- Keep your valuables with you at all times.
Never leave your things unattended especially when you’re traveling alone. When you’re in a crowded area, make sure to keep your luggage or bag as close to your body as possible. It won’t hurt to be overprotective of your belongings especially when you’re in a place that’s known for pickpockets and robbers.
- Always get the right travel insurance.
Do not forego this part since most travel insurance companies include protection for your belongings. Many unpredictable things can happen when you’re on the road especially when you’re in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance will serve as an extra layer of protection against the uncertainties of travelling.
- Don’t bring expensive things.
Going to different places can do a number on your luggage and gear, so do not use expensive bags and clothing. You also do not want to attract criminals who might want to take advantage of you. Also, it is important that you are prepared to lose some items. Traveling has many twists and turns so don’t bring anything that you are not willing to lose.
- Be mindful of your belongings and be wary of suspicious people.
Many criminals can use different tactics to take advantage of you. There can be instances that you won’t even know that you’re already being mugged. Be respectful and courteous to the people around you, but also keep an eye out for suspicious characters. It won’t hurt to be vigilant at all times.
- Take photos of your luggage before leaving the house.
By having a photo of your luggage stored in your phone or email (having a print-out won’t hurt too in case you lose your gadgets as well) you can easily show the photo to the proper authorities and it will be easier for them to track down your belongings. This can also be proof that you do own the luggage especially when someone else is claiming it or when there are luggage mix-ups.