Always carry a copy of your documents in your carry-on bag. And don’t carry all your money in the same bag. Put a little in your carry-on bag and a little in your bra.
Ladies, pack your earrings in one of those lipstick carriers with the little mirror in it. Makes your earrings very easy to find and keeps them from getting lost.
Don’t wear clothes that make you stand out. I usually try to wear jeans, sweatshirts, and try to stay away from bold colors, logos, and anything sexy.
If you are traveling to a foreign country, learn the customs. In other words, don’t travel to Iran and wear hot shorts and a tank top.
If you decide to rent a car and need to drive to a location or want to be adventurous …great! Lock the doors to that fabulous rental car! Hide any road maps which might tip off a carjacker, as you are not local to that area. I also like to make sure that there isn’t a huge car rental sticker to announce that I’m a visitor, either. Contact your car rental company before you arrive regarding that policy and what they might be able to do to help. Most have scaled down their advertising on their cars, specifically to take you off the target list!
Ladies … lose the purse! Find a cute bag that looks great around your waist. I use an old, ugly bag if I have to have a purse and keep my valuables hidden in my underwear or bra.
Make sure you let people know you are not alone. I know this sounds a bit crazy, but it helps. Check back at the hotel and leave yourself a message for “John”, or if you get a voicemail, leave “John” a message that you’ll be back to get him in 15 minutes. Don’t do this unless you feel you’re being watched or you want the illusion of a travel partner.
Hotel Safety. This is an important tip that I need to use and do so frequently, whether I am traveling with someone or not.
Use only a first initial when checking in.
Try not to get a room on the main floor.
Always use the elevator…save the stairs for your workout at the gym!
If there is someone watching you or following you … by all means, return to the front desk and get a security guard.
Leave a television or radio on in the room … even if you’re not there.
Never leave your key where someone can glance and get your room number.
Concierge. My favorite word is when I travel. First thing I do is call the hotel once it’s booked and talk to the concierge. Why? Because they are a bevy of information about the area and what it has to offer. They not only make reservations for you at incredible restaurants, but can also send you maps of the area and point out danger zones. If your hotel does not offer a concierge, then by all means, do your homework. I always buy a book on the local area, or use the web, or contact a local police station.
Try storing valuables in a tampon or maxi-pad box when staying in hotels. No one wants to go digging in those boxes. I just leave about half tampons and half jewelry, etc.
