FunTime Editorial Team
When traveling abroad, the last thing you want is to be pickpocketed or robbed—especially when it involves something as important as your passport. Having such documents stolen can be quite troublesome. No matter where you go, there's always a chance of running into such unpleasant experiences. Today, we’ll share some handy items that can help reduce your risk of theft or robbery, making your trip both enriching and worry-free.
A flexible anti-theft waist pouch, which looks just like a thin rope, can hold your passport, cash, or credit cards. When secured around your waist and covered with clothing or a coat, it significantly reduces the chances of theft. It’s also great for everyday use like jogging—you can just toss in your keys and wallet and head out!
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When buying a suitcase, opt for one with a built-in combination lock. An extra layer of security can make it more time-consuming for thieves to open, possibly discouraging them—or at least giving you enough time to notice the theft.
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If your suitcase doesn’t come with a built-in lock, you should get one separately. Besides common combination locks, if you’re traveling to or from the U.S., it’s recommended to use a TSA lock. U.S. Customs has the legal right to inspect luggage at any time, and using other types of locks might result in them being cut off. A TSA lock allows officials to open it with a special tool without damaging the lock itself.
(Photo via Flickr, by reedwade, CC License)
To prevent thieves from stealing items from your bag, many people avoid using backpacks when traveling abroad—after all, you can’t see what’s going on behind your head. A side-slung bag allows you to keep your belongings in front of you, protected by both hands. Especially when taking the subway, try not to stand near the doors to minimize the chance of a thief snatching your bag and running off the train.
(Photo via Flickr, by Ged Carroll, CC License)
To avoid losing your entire wallet at once, it’s wise to spread the risk. Carry several small zippered pouches or mini wallets that can be tucked into hidden pockets in your coat or an anti-theft waist pouch. This way, even if you are robbed, the loss can be minimized.
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This is probably the simplest anti-theft method: keeping valuables in the inner pockets of your clothes. Not only is it convenient to access, but thieves are also less likely to know where your valuables are hidden—and therefore less likely to reach into your chest area. However, stay extra vigilant in crowded subway cars!
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An anti-theft cord can be used to connect your wallet or small pouch to your bag. This way, if someone tries to pull your wallet out, you’ll be alerted, and they’ll have to put in more effort to detach it. Adding an extra ring might even discourage them from attempting the theft.
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After shopping at high-end boutiques in Europe, you might become a target for thieves. To avoid drawing attention, use a plain shopping bag to carry your purchases instead of leaving branded bags in plain sight. Of course, still stay alert to strangers nearby to prevent your entire bag from being snatched.
(Source by FunTime Peanut JOHN)
Aside from prevention, it’s also essential to know how to respond if you do become a victim. Below are some tips to help you recover.
Even with many preventive measures, thieves are constantly evolving their tactics, and there’s still a chance you could be robbed. So, make sure to print a copy of your passport and keep it in your hotel safe. If your passport is stolen, this copy can speed up the process of getting assistance abroad or serve as proof of identity.
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If you’re a Chinese national facing a major emergency overseas, you can callthe “Global Free Emergency Hotline for Chinese Travelers”: 800-0885-0885.
■ China:
First, report the loss to the local Chinese public security authorities to obtain a police report certificate. (If you’ve lost your Taiwan Compatriot Permit, you’ll need to apply for a temporary one.)
■ Other Countries:
If you need to return home urgently, you can apply for an entry certificate at a nearby Chinese embassy/consulate or the “Taipei Economic and Cultural Office” in Hong Kong, and then apply for a new passport once you’re back in your home country.
If you will be staying abroad for an extended period, you can apply for a new passport directly in the foreign country. You must first request a police report for the lost passport from the local authorities, and then consult the nearest embassy or consulate for the other required documents, asking them to assist with the process.
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In the event that your bag or other belongings are stolen, assess the situation before chasing after the thief, prioritizing your personal safety. There have been news reports of victims who chased after their belongings but were lured into an alley and assaulted by accomplices. Therefore, when trying to recover stolen items, always remember to keep your own safety in mind—this is the most important thing.
If you discover your phone has been stolen, don’t rush to report it as lost. Quickly borrow someone else’s phone to get online. Activate Find My iPhone or Android Device Manager. Once activated, you can locate the phone and make the smartphone or tablet emit a sound, which can help you retrieve it if it was just stolen or left somewhere nearby.
However, this application can only be activated if the phone is still connected to the internet. If you really can’t retrieve the phone, such programs also allow you to remotely erase the phone's data to prevent personal information from being leaked.
When traveling abroad, in addition to watching your money and passport, pay extra attention to your personal safety. Having an enjoyable trip is very important. Taking these small precautions may seem a bit troublesome, but they help prevent thieves from targeting you and reduce the likelihood of theft.
[FunTime Travel Recommendation] Authorized reprint | Original source: [Be Careful of Pickpockets Abroad – Theft Prevention Tips Revealed]