Travelling safely: how to protect your passport, money and luggage

Nothing is worse than discovering on holiday that your wallet or passport has gone. Fortunately a few simple measures can cut the risk considerably. In this article you will read how to keep your passport, money and luggage safe, from departure to arriving home.

Before you leave

• Take a photo or copy of your passport or ID card and keep it separately, for example in your email or a secure cloud folder.
• Do not take all your bank cards and split your money between two places.
• Note down the number for blocking your bank card, so you can act quickly if something goes wrong.

On the move: watch out for pickpockets

Pickpockets like to work in busy places: stations, public transport, markets and well-known sights.

• Carry valuables at the front of your body, for example in a bum bag or a bag you wear in front of you.
• Never put your wallet or phone in your back pocket.
• Do not leave your phone on a cafe table.
• Be alert if someone distracts you unexpectedly, for example with a question or a map.

What is RFID protection?

Your passport and contactless bank cards contain a chip that can be read wirelessly. A passport holder or bag with RFID protection shields that chip so it cannot be read without you noticing. The risk is small in practice, but an RFID holder gives extra certainty and also keeps your documents neatly together.

• Travelhawk RFID Travel Wallet Black
• Travelhawk RFID Passport Holder with world map
• Travelhawk RFID Bum Bag, water-repellent

Securing your luggage

A lock will not always stop a determined thief, but it does make it much harder to grab something from your case quickly.

• TSA luggage lock: travelling to or via the United States? Customs may open your case for inspection. With a TSA lock they use a special key, so your lock does not have to be forced. The Travelhawk TSA Luggage Lock is a set of two locks with a 3-digit code.
• Luggage strap: a luggage strap with combination lock keeps your case extra firmly closed and makes it recognisable on the carousel.
• Luggage tag: put your name and phone number on a luggage tag, but preferably not your home address. Read also: making your suitcase recognisable.

At your accommodation

• Use the safe for your passport, spare money and electronics.
• Only take what you need for the day.
• Do not leave valuables visible in your room or car.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an RFID passport holder?

The risk of your passport or bank card being read without you noticing is small, but an RFID holder gives extra certainty and keeps your travel documents neatly together.

What is a TSA lock?

A lock that US customs can open with a special key. That way your lock does not have to be forced if your case is inspected.

What do I do if I lose my passport abroad?

Report it to the local police and contact your country's embassy or consulate. A copy of your passport helps with this.

Where is the safest place to keep my money while travelling?

Split your money and cards between different places, for example some in the safe and some in a bum bag you wear in front of you.

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