TILLY ENDURABLES TIPS FOR TRAVELERS

TILLY ENDURABLES: TIPS TO PROTECT AGAINST PICKPOCKETS

1. Pickpockets come in all guises and disguises; many are very well dressed and groomed.  See if you can spot them!
2. Trust your instincts. Pickpockets usually survey their targets.  If someone is following you, move to a more secure location.
3. Be aware of loud arguments, bumps and other incidents.  Pickpockets usually work in teams and will often create a commotion to distract the victim so a partner can pick a pocket or two.
4. Pickpockets frequent bus and train stations, airports, hotel lobbies, outdoor festivals, subways and other crowded places.  If you see a sign, “Beware of Pickpockets,” don’t reveal your wallet’s location by touching it.
5. Swarmed by a group of children?  Run and shout!
6. Be unassuming in your choice of clothing and luggage, and leave expensive jewelry at home.
7. Travel as lightly as possible.  Being overburdened with luggage makes you more of a target.
8. Walk with a purpose.  Never look vulnerable or lost.
9. Photocopy your passport, credit cards and driver’s license.  Leave one copy with a friend; carry another in you secret pocket.
10. During your trip, do not give out information about your destination, valuables or itinerary to people who do not need it – desk clerks, doormen or taxi drivers.
11. Do not carry all your cash, traveller’s cheques and credit cards in one pocket.  Carry only enough money for the day’s adventures, divided up in secure pockets.
12. Avoid putting your wallet or passport in a back pocket.
13. Do not leave purses, handbags or backpacks unattended.
14. Carry hotel key and car keys separately from your bag or purse.
15. For a small fee, many airports will shrink-wrap your luggage or bag in plastic.  This helps prevent tampering and theft at the airport or even in taxis, and saves wear and tear on your luggage.
16. If victimized, report the incident to the appropriate officials.  In the case of a stolen passport or visa, contact your embassy.