How Do I Prevent Theft When Traveling In The Third World?

In some areas of the Third World, Western travellers are seen as fabulously wealthy and worth the risk of stealing from. You stick out like a sore thumb, and are considered fair game. But there are things you can do to minimize theft.
Bring less stuff. By travelling light, it's easier for you to get around, and if you do have a rip-off, it won't be so catastrophic. Pack older clothes and gear, and never bring something that is irreplaceable or very expensive.
Before you send laundry out, make an itemized list and let the laundress know that you have it. Carefully count each clean item she returns.
Use a money belt under your clothes or a bum bag worn in front. In a crowd, carry your backpack on your chest; you'll get odd looks, but thieves might slit the pack's pockets from behind. If you are in a group, stand in a circle with your packs facing toward the centre.
Sew Velcro into one of your front pockets; you will hear it opening if a pickpocket strikes. Carry enough cash for the day in it, with the bulk of your money and travellers checks in your money belt. That way, you are not ostentatiously flashing cash around every time you pay bus fare or buy a Coke. Keep $100 cash hidden in a place besides your money belt for emergencies should your pouch be stolen.
Designate one travelling companion as "banker," and at the start of each day, put in equal amounts of money into a "kitty" for communal expenses. Again, this way, only one person is exhibiting cash.
Pickpockets thrive on crowd scenes. When the bus or train pulls up, be the last one off of it, thereby avoiding the initial chaos and hubbub during which time pickpockets work the crowd.
Beware of two-person theft teams, one of whom create as diversion while the other works the crowd. At a brief train stop in Peru, I saw a man and his son get on the bus. The man began reciting poetry in a loud voice, so everyone looked at him -- while the kid stole unattended packs. They then quickly exited the train.
Keep your wits about you, but don't keep your guard up so high that you miss out on positive, personal encounters with the natives.

Add Comment

Report