I was planning on taking a debit and 2 credit cards (plus a small float of cash). I would then keep my debit card on me at all times and then keep my credit cards either in a safe (at the hostel) or in my pacsafe travel safe. The intention being that if I did get robbed of my money belt then I would still have access to money via my credit cards when I got back to the hostel (assuming they didn't get nicked too - now that would be a bad day eh!)
I have since read various blogs where travellers advise to keep everything of value on you at all times.
Do any of you have any comments on these two suggestions, if so I'd be grateful to hear back.
Thanks!
Reply to this I think it probably depends which countries you're visiting - some places it would be safe enough to store your credit cards in a hostel safe (if they have one), others it's probably best to keep everything with you. In which case you could keep them somewhere else other than your money belt, eg a zipped pocket on your shorts or something, if you don't want to keep them all together. I kept everything together in my money belt - at times I thought maybe that wasn't such a good idea, but then money belts are about the most secure thing to keep your stuff in when you're carrying it with you - my boyfriend wore his money belt inside his shorts so it wasn't visible at all. I didn't get anything nicked the whole time I was away (not cards anyway - I lost one in an ATM). But a couple of things I did do - I kept a couple of copies of my passport in my rucksack so if that got lost or stolen it would be easier getting a new one from an embassy, and also if you have to hand your passport in ever to get a visa, then you have copies. Also I had 3 friends at home who I made back-up plans with - that if everything got taken, I could get in touch and they would send me some money via Western Union (which is in most places). (I had 3 back ups incase I couldn't get hold of the first or second person). I would say as long as you make some contingency plans for what would happen if you do get your stuff nicked, just do your best with it, and try not to worry too much. A friend of mine gave me some good advice before I left (I'm originally from London); I was panicked about getting money/cards stolen or lost and he just said, 'look, just take the same precautions you do at home.' Obviously the stakes are higher when you're away but these things can always be dealt with and resolved, even if it's a bit of a hassle. There are always incidents of crime against tourists, but it's really not rife. You can't guarantee it won't happen, but chances are you'll be fine!
Reply to this Hello Gareth 😊
I think it is OK to leave valuables in a safe if it is one you lock with your own pad lock or using a code.
You can also ask a friend or family member at home to hold photo copies of your doccuments and to be available to wire you money if you get unlucky enough to be robbed.
Mel
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