In our previous article we covered how to keep your home safe when you are away.  In this article we will cover how to keep you safe.  It is fun to visit different places and experience new things, but it is also great to return safely, with all our possessions intact.
Traveling is exciting and informative, but it can be taxing as well, what with the demands of scheduling, transfers and security lines.  In this article we will discuss ways you can stay safe whether you are traveling by plane, train or automobile.
Beside stopping the newspaper and mail, which was discussed in the earlier article.  It is a good idea that someone is given a copy  of your itinerary .  That person could be a family member, close friend or neighbor.  If something should happen to you, and you don’t arrive when expected, there will be someone who can notify the police.  These people should know where you are going, how you are traveling and where you are staying.  In the unlikely event that you disappear, the police have a place to start looking.
Always double check the plane departure time. Check to see if it is on time or delayed.  The same with trains and buses.
When on public transportation, sit near other people for safety.  There is usually safety in numbers.  When possible sit near the doors and locate the emergency exits.  Remember the nearest exit may be behind you.
Stay awake and alert when traveling on public transportation. But if you do nap, have your traveling companion keep watch while you get some sleep.
There are many manufacturers that offer products designed to hide your valuables, such as passports, money, credit cards, traveler’s checks and tickets.  It is a good idea to keep a good portion of your money in traveler’s checks and hidden in separate compartments.  When walking around, keep your money separate from your credit cards and passports.  If you are robbed, then they get the money, but not the harder to replace passport and credit cards.
Always keep your luggage close at hand and in sight.  Not only is it the safest way keep control, but in airports, the luggage could be confiscated by security.  It takes just a second for someone to walk off with your bags.
Backpacks are very popular these days.  I don’t know what I would do without one on a trip.  Being somewhat of a Boy Scout, I used one daily so that I didn’t forget to bring something along with me.  When carrying a backpack, it is safer to hold the backpack on one shoulder so that it can be easier to see if someone attempts to get into the bag.  When the backpack is on your back in a crowd, it is easier for someone to unzip a compartment and remove a valuable.  In crowds I will often hold the pack in front of me.
A handy item is the pocket wallet that fits in your front pocket.  It is harder for the pickpocket to get to the wallet when it is located there.  Your purse should closed and in front of you or beside you with the handle facing you, this makes it more difficult for someone to grab it and run away.  However it is best not to fight for the purse or bag if it is grabbed.  Better to be able to walk away and avoid a trip to the hospital or worse.
Prior to leaving for a new destination, research the area and get the lay of the land.  Also research customs that may differ from yours.
Always dress appropriately for the area that you are visiting.  If not attending a formal affair, it is usually better to dress casually, in comfortable clothing.  The shoes should be comfortable in case you have to move quickly.
Wearing your best jewelry in public is only inviting a thief to grab it from your neck or mug you for these items.  Save your best jewelry for special occasions.
When in the airport, after passing through the security screening, it best to head directly to the boarding area.  Security in these areas is usually better as there are more people.
I try to avoid crowds.  I don’t like a lot people surrounding me and blocking any exit I may have.  But that’s me. You may be different.  Just be aware that in crowds, pickpockets often work in teams to distract their victims.  If you are bumped, check to be sure you still have all your valuables.
Traveling is one of my favorite pastimes.  Seeing places that I have never seen before or visiting places that I have enjoyed in the past is always fun.  With an awareness of your surroundings, you can experience the thrill of travel and still maintain your safety and possessions.
Remember: Your Safety Is Up To You.