Traveling offers incredible experiences, but it also presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to keeping your valuables safe. Many seasoned travelers think about their money as a portable “Bag Of Money” that needs careful protection. With pickpocketing and petty theft being concerns in popular tourist destinations, particularly in Europe, adopting smart strategies for securing your cash, cards, and important documents is crucial for peace of mind. There’s no single, perfect system that works for everyone, but understanding different approaches and choosing what suits your travel style is key.
One popular method for safeguarding your travel funds is utilizing a money belt. Think of a money belt as your deep storage for essential items. Once you’re through airport security and in your destination, a money belt, worn discreetly under your clothing, becomes an ideal place for your passport, spare credit and debit cards, and emergency cash. Some travelers even keep a small card with essential passwords stored securely in their money belt. This system ensures that your most critical items are always close to your body and out of sight from potential thieves.
For everyday use and easier access to frequently needed items, a crossbody bag is a favored choice. Opting for a crossbody bag that hangs horizontally rather than vertically can enhance both comfort and security. Bags like the Le Sportsac Everyday bag, known for their lightweight design and practical pockets, are popular among travelers. These bags are spacious enough to hold essentials like an iPad Mini, travel documents, metro tickets, and local passes, keeping them organized and within reach.
However, even with a crossbody bag, vigilance is necessary. Personal experiences highlight the importance of added security measures. One traveler recounts a near pickpocketing incident in Paris where thieves attempted to steal a pouch of over-the-counter medications from their crossbody bag. Fortunately, no money or cards were lost, but this experience led to implementing enhanced safety features. Adding split rings and carabiners to secure zippers and compartments can act as a significant deterrent to opportunistic thieves. Developing a habit of clipping zippers shut immediately after accessing your bag becomes a simple yet effective security practice.
For specific situations like rainy days or travel days, a smaller crossbody wallet can be incredibly practical. A compact crossbody wallet, such as the Eddie Bauer Connect Travel Wallet, can be easily concealed and zipped up under a rain jacket or travel cardigan. This type of wallet is perfect for keeping your passport and phone secure and dry when navigating airports or during inclement weather. Wearing it under a jacket further minimizes the risk of theft and keeps your essentials readily accessible.
Beyond personal carry-on bags, consider a larger “bus bag” or tote for day trips and transit days. When exploring a city or traveling between locations, a backpack or tote bag becomes invaluable. This “bus bag” serves as your daytime storage for items like water bottles, guidebooks, snacks, and an extra jacket. It’s also particularly useful in destinations like Venice, where navigating bridges with steps is common. Packing essentials for a night or two in a lightweight tote or backpack, instead of a rolling suitcase, can significantly simplify your travel experience, especially when using public transportation like water buses (vaporetti).
In conclusion, securing your “bag of money” while traveling involves a combination of smart planning and practical tools. Utilizing a money belt for deep storage, a secure crossbody bag for daily essentials, and a smaller crossbody wallet for specific situations provides layers of protection. Adding simple security features like clips and developing vigilant habits can further minimize risks. By carefully considering your needs and adopting these strategies, you can travel with greater confidence and enjoy your adventures knowing your valuables are well-protected.
