Hey everyone, Mark here! I'm an American backpacker who loves exploring the vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes of Asia. Over the years, I've learned a thing or two about staying safe while traveling, and today I'm sharing my top tips to help you protect your valuables and have a worry-free adventure. This guide covers outdoor, indoor, water, and transit safety.
Protecting Your Belongings Outdoors
When exploring bustling night markets or venturing into less populated areas, a rain cover for your backpack is your best friend. It conceals the contents and organization of your bag, preventing easy access for pickpockets. Plus, it offers protection from rain and scrapes.
For added security, I always use locks on my zippers. Here are four lock types I recommend:
| Lock Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Combination Locks | Widely available, easy to use, no need for keys. | Can be picked with some skill; may need resetting. |
| Padlocks | Strong and durable, good for securing larger bags or luggage. | Requires carrying keys. |
| Cable Locks | Versatile, useful for securing bags to stationary objects. | Can be cut with bolt cutters. |
| Luggage Locks | Specifically designed for luggage zippers, often with TSA compatibility. | May not be suitable for all backpacks. |
For lockers at attractions or in transit, I always use my own combination lock instead of renting one. This saves hassle and ensures you're not relying on potentially less secure rental locks.
Staying Safe Indoors: Hotel Room Security
When choosing accommodation, I prioritize value and safety. I use booking sites and read reviews carefully, paying attention to safety comments. While I'm fine with basic accommodations without breakfast, I never compromise on security.
Even in less secure lodging, several practices ensure the safety of your valuables:
- Conceal valuables: Don't leave expensive items in plain sight.
- Decline daily cleaning: Reduce the chance of unwanted access to your room. Inform the staff that you do not need the room cleaned during your stay.
- Turn off appliances: Switch off lights and air conditioning before leaving your room, giving the impression that you won’t be needing access to those things.
For securing items in rooms, I utilize the following:
- Pacsafe cable lock: Secure to a fixed object in the room to prevent theft. It’s a convenient solution for securing a backpack or bag to a piece of furniture.
- Room-specific security measures: Consider the environment and adapt your strategies. I even use a small alarm to deter potential theft!
- Miniature security camera (optional): While I don't recommend this for everyone, a hidden camera can provide crucial evidence if a theft occurs. Ensure it's charged and connected to a power source or a power bank.
I understand this is a level of security that many travelers don't consider, but it was very necessary during our recent travels.
Water Safety: Protecting Your Belongings While Island Hopping
Island hopping is a quintessential Asian experience, but keeping your valuables dry and secure requires careful planning. I recommend using a quality waterproof bag with shoulder straps for comfort. These are usually available anywhere you’d be purchasing your island-hopping excursion.
- Double-lock your valuables: Roll your waterproof bag tightly and secure it with multiple locks. I often use a combination lock and a sturdy carabiner through any loops on the bag.
- Choose less conspicuous locks: Avoid using your most valuable locks, as saltwater could damage them.
- Be visible: Choose a waterproof bag that stands out from others without making your contents visible. If everyone has a waterproof bag, but only yours is locked, that might deter thieves.
For activities near waterfalls, I use the extendable lock I mentioned earlier, securing my bag to a tree branch or sturdy object.
Transit Safety: Protecting Your Belongings On The Go
For navigation and map use while on the move, I use an older, less valuable phone. This protects your primary device from the elements and theft. I strongly recommend that if you are moving around a city and using your phone for directions, you utilize a map program that will update its data regularly.
Managing Your Finances
I follow the "don't flash your cash" approach, dividing my money into several smaller amounts and storing it in different locations. This minimizes losses in case of theft. Consider using money belts or hidden pockets to secure larger amounts of cash.
Learn From My Mistakes!
I've had a few unfortunate encounters with water damage, so I strongly urge you to use additional protection such as zip lock bags to protect valuable items inside your waterproof bags. Waterproof bags can fail!
This comprehensive guide aims to help you enjoy your Asian adventure with peace of mind. Stay safe, and happy travels!
