NFIB

How to Avoid Being the Target of Thieves When Traveling
03/ 14/ 2002

Though carry-on luggage has been severely limited for security reasons since Sept. 11, you still need to be careful to guard the laptops or personal items allowed onboard. Travel these days is exhausting enough, without experiencing the emotional drain of having your luggage or other valuables stolen. In today's Workshop, Jeffrey Moses provides solutions to deter would-be thieves.

1. The new requirements for checking luggage mean you don't have to worry about dragging heavy suitcases around inside the airport. But the limited baggage allowances do require you to be even more careful about what you take onboard. Take only what you need. Fewer bags make it easier to get around the airport and take less time if you're pulled aside for a more extensive search.

2. Never entrust strangers to look out for your luggage, no matter how trustworthy they seem. While you never should have done so before Sept. 11, this rule is even more important now.

3. Avoid carrying purses, cameras, camcorders or other bags on your shoulder. These are easy targets for experienced thieves.

4. Don't wear expensive jewelry or watches when traveling -- these are prime indicators to thieves that your baggage may be worth stealing.

5. Don't keep cash or passports in carry-on luggage. Instead, keep them on your person, preferably in pockets or in packs that strap to your body beneath exterior clothing.

6. When anyone approaches you and asks a question, don't be distracted even for a second from your carry-on baggage. Thieves often travel in pairs.

7. Before traveling, back-up your computer data on portable hard drives or zip disks, and keep them in your pocket. This will prevent all your work from being lost if your computer is stolen.

8. Never hang your handbag or laptop on the back of a chair, even in places you feel are secure.

9. Thieves target travelers who are distracted. You should be especially aware when taking money from ATM machines, making phone calls, visiting restrooms, standing in lines, paying at restaurants, and dozing on seats or benches. Thieves flock to busy, crowded areas, so keep alert at all times.

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