Going to the airport, cruise terminal or bus/train depot should be a celebratory moment, right? You’re almost there and your adventure is imminent. However, to be realistic, airports are usually a chaotic hassle of waiting and trying to keep track of passports, tickets and luggage while getting checked in….a perfect environment for criminals to do mischief.
The most important thing you can do to protect yourself is to be prepared. You already know you will have to produce your ticket or passport and perhaps a credit card. So have them ready to go in your purse. As soon as you show them, put them right back in the same place so you always know where they are. Do not carry wallets in your back packet, put them in your front pocket just in chaotic locations.
I carry my credit cards in an RFID wallet, which is nothing more than a plastic folder that repels electromagnetic signals. Also, if there is any issue with your credit card going into a charge machine, do not use the machine, I’ve heard of scammers using a reading device in card readers. Finally, don’t flash your credit card around, use it and put it back. Same with your passport. These are high value items for a potential criminal and can cost you a great deal of time and money during your vacation that has suddenly turned very unrelaxing.
Another way to bypass the TSA lines at the airport and make check-in easier is to obtain a Global Entry card or PRE check. Global Entry cards require an interview and a fee but are well worth it. Bypass the hours long TSA line and upon arrival back in the US, you can breeze right through customs. We’ve had these for years and they have saved us countless hours of wasted time, worth every penny.
Air tags. We purchased air tags for our luggage and backpacks after losing our luggage for two weeks….with airlines pointing fingers at each other as to who was at fault, we were sweltering in winter gear in 90 degree heat. Even if there is a market nearby, you can bet the clothes will not accommodate American figures and will likely not be well made. Since then, we put air tags inside our suitcase and backpack and on the outside of our bags we add a bright colored tag with our contact information as well as the airline paper tag. You may also want to add a ribbon or something else to make it easier to find your luggage later.
Most of all, be careful at crowded, chaotic locations. Keep a hand on your purse and keep your wallet in your front pocket. Put your important documents away as soon as you are done showing them. Just be aware…and you will be fine!
