Securing Your STUFF When you Travel

When we travel, we are often at increased risks on two fronts. First, we may be taking some valuables with us – jewelry, extra cash, laptops, etc. – and leaving them in unfamiliar places, all putting us at some type of heightened risk. Second, we increase our risk of identity theft due to the increased use of IDs, passports, credit cards, etc.

As with many of the scams we discuss, when reading they may seem obvious – keep reading. We are planting the seed, and that seed will serve as your reminder when and if you are in these types of situations. Also, think of the fact that anytime you leave your home, you are traveling – so be cognizant whether you are going to the mall or traveling abroad – thieves are lurking everywhere.

Car Security

No car or the items in it are immune from theft. Never leave valuables in a car – do your best to really abide by this rule. If you are planning a large purchase – let’s say you want to buy a TV – and then you have other errands to run afterward – don’t. Buy the TV last and head home. Even just leaving something obvious like that in a parking lot not only puts you at risk for the TV to be stolen but for your car windows to be smashed or your car stolen altogether.

It is highly recommended that you do not park your car in airport long-term parking. These areas are usually not monitored and are prime bait for car thieves. Measure the cost of a taxi instead or ask a friend or family member for a ride. If you do not have a choice, opt for a car security alarm.

Public Places

Limit your personal items so that you can ideally carry your valuables with you. Perhaps just a phone, an ID, and a credit card – while placing items in a locker may seem secure it is not guaranteed – and most public places that provide these such as gyms, amusement parks, etc., usually have clear disclaimers that they are not responsible if anything happens to your things.

Extended Travel

It is always a good idea to notify your credit card companies when you will be travelling. If you do not plan on using a particular card, you may request a temporary freeze. Likewise, if you do plan on using it, you don’t want your activity outside of your normal area to cause an alert that may have you end up with an unwanted freeze.

It seems like a lot to think about but it can be pretty simple – if you will be traveling, bring two cards (one for daily use, the other for emergency) and alert the card companies of your destination and length of stay.

Recall a few weeks ago we discussed deed fraud – well, it is not a bad idea to freeze your home equity line of credit. Remember – freezing and unfreezing are pretty easy to do. What is not easy is dealing with any type of theft of these credit lines/cards.

Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks in the U.S. are usually safe, but if you’re visiting another country, public Wi-Fi networks might be more vulnerable depending on their encryption protocols. Safe practices include not logging into sensitive accounts such as credit card and bank accounts. Set up auto bill pay or pay your bills before you go so you are not logging into other sensitive accounts such as utilities while you are away. This includes shopping online – we are so accustomed to that.

Hotel Safes

While hotel safes can provide an additional layer of security for your valuables, they are not foolproof. Here are some tips for using hotel safes:

1. Use the safe, but don’t rely on it completely: It’s better than leaving valuables out in the open, but not as secure as a bank safe deposit box.
2. Create a unique code: Avoid using obvious combinations like birthdays or “1234”.
3. Test the safe: Make sure it’s working properly before leaving your belongings.
4. Consider portable travel safes: These can be secured to fixtures in the room for added protection.
5. Use hotel’s main safe: For extremely valuable items, ask if the hotel has a main safe at the front desk.

Remember, hotel staff often have override codes for room safes. For irreplaceable items, consider leaving them at home or in a bank safe deposit box.

Travel Documents

Protecting your travel documents is crucial to avoid identity theft and travel disruptions:

1. Make copies: Create physical and digital copies of your passport, ID, and other important documents. Store digital copies in a secure, encrypted cloud storage.
2. Separate storage: Don’t keep all your documents in one place. Distribute them among your carry-on, checked luggage, and on your person.
3. Use RFID-blocking wallets: These protect your passport and credit cards from electronic pickpocketing.
4. Be cautious with photos: Avoid posting pictures of your passport or boarding pass on social media, as they contain sensitive information.
5. Utilize embassy services: For long-term travel, consider registering with your country’s embassy at your destination.

Before You Go Checklist:

• Freeze accounts you won’t use
• Alert your bank and credit card companies of upcoming travel
• Have your mail held at your local post office
• Set up a trusted house-sitter or use timed lights to make your home appear occupied
• Update your phone’s security settings and install a “find my device” app
• Purchase travel insurance that covers theft
• Research your destination’s common scams and safety concerns

Finally, do not share your whereabouts on social media – you can photo dump when you return. Thieves are scouring social media to find out whose home may be empty for a week or two. You could end up putting yourself at risk by announcing your travel plans real time.

Remember, being prepared and vigilant is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience.