When you travel, keep an eye on your government-issued ID, smartphone, and money. If something goes sideways while you’re on the road, those are the three things that identify you, help you communicate with others, and come up with an alternative solution.
American Society hasn’t gone cashless. Thus, cash is still a viable form of payment. Many business travelers head to cosmopolitan cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami. There it’s mainstream to use the latest technology payment options.
Sometimes you’ll travel to rural cities because it’s more cost-effective to operate company headquarters there. Therefore it’s best to carry cash on your person too. Some eateries and retail shops in rural areas only accept cash. It helps them avoid credit card processing fees.
Let’s look at seven ways to keep your money safe while traveling.
1. Spread Out Your Cash
To keep your money safe while traveling, spread out your cash. Place a $20 or $50 bill in your hidden jacket pocket, bag, and extra pair of shoes. The rest, place in your wallet.
Your goal is to have cash stashed away in case you misplace your wallet. In 2020, almost 34,000 reported robberies with a gun took place. Authorities advise individuals to give the perpetrator the items that they request, especially if they hold a weapon to your person.
Keep in mind that the United States population hit 330 million in the summer of 2020. Thus the chances of experiencing a robbery at gunpoint are slim.
Spreading out your cash gives you access to some money in case you lose your wallet during your travels.
2. Carry Two Credit Cards Separately
Most travelers, especially business travelers, carry at least one credit card with them. Corporate credit cards are a convenient tool. They come in handy when you put together your expense reports.
Credit card companies allow individuals to request a spare credit card. Take them up on their offer. Place the credit card in your wallet with your cash. Then place the spare in your carry-on bag, hidden jacket pocket, or extra pair of shoes.
If you misplace your wallet, you maintain access to your funds while you report the incident to the credit card company.
3. Avoid ATMs in Sketchy Areas
Cash is still in style. Sometimes it’s necessary to withdraw funds from an ATM. When you travel to a city that you don’t know well, avoid sketchy areas. Moreover, skip withdrawing cash from ATMs situated in isolated areas, especially at night.
Keeping your money safe means practicing good sense.
The best time to withdraw funds from an ATM is in the morning during commuting hours. Stick to ATMs located in high-traffic areas too.
It’s also a good idea to avoid sketchy areas in general including the tourist spots. Many people get caught in scams that target out-of-towners. Street vendors offer tempting discounts on products. However, you don’t know if the product is authentic.
Hotel Engine provides additional tips on how to avoid scams while traveling.
4. Use Clothing with Concealed Pockets
Individuals who travel frequently can consider investing in clothing that has concealed pockets. Look into niche brands that cater to travelers. Those who have their clothes tailored can request adding concealed pockets too.
Some mainstream clothing manufacturers produce sweaters with hidden pockets for smartphones and headphones. If you prefer something high-end, browse your options online.
5. Opt for a Fanny Purse
It wasn’t that long ago that the fanny purse received continuous mocking jeers. However, the fanny pack has made a comeback. In 2017, high-end fashion houses and accessory makers gave the fanny purse a makeover.
Thus you can find it in modern styles for both men and women.
6. Check Your Statement
Before you hit the road, count your cash and review your most recent credit card statement. When you return, count your cash again and review your online credit card statement.
If you come up short on the cash side, there is not much you can do to recoup it. However, if you notice oddities in your credit card activity, contact your bank or credit card issuer.
7. Practice Caution
Keeping your money safe while traveling requires practicing caution. It’s the same caution you practice to keep yourself safe. Most of the time, there is no need to over-worry. Some cities experience more crime than others, but victims are far and few in between.
To avoid becoming a statistic, avoid looking for trouble.
Conclusion
Crime can occur at any time and any place. Some cities are more prone to crime than others. You can narrow it down further by area and time of day. Aside from crime, it’s possible to lose your money while traveling by misplacing it. So, be mindful and employ a few tactics that help you keep it safe.
