Travel is one of the few things that truly unites us. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time visitor, there’s something magical about exploring new cultures and destinations. But with the rise of digital payments and the decline of cash, many travelers are still navigating the tricky balance between convenience and security. While credit cards and apps are becoming the norm, cash remains essential in certain places, making it a target for thieves.
As GOBankingRates notes, keeping your money safe isn’t just about avoiding lost wallets—it’s about preventing costly thefts that can ruin a trip. With tourism booming post-pandemic, pickpocketing and bag snatching have surged in popular spots like Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America. Even in less crowded areas, unattended valuables can be risky.
Here’s a look at six places to avoid storing your cash, and why:
1. Backpack or Luggage Outer Pockets
While backpacks and luggage are designed with compartments, the outer pockets are prime real estate for pickpockets. These areas are exposed and easy to access, making them a thief’s playground. In crowded places like airports, train stations, and tourist hubs, opportunistic thieves can snatch your wallet or cash in seconds.
Simple tip: Use inner compartments or secure zippered pouches to keep valuables out of sight.
2. Loose Clothing Pockets
Your clothes might be stylish, but they’re not built for security. Loose pockets in pants, jackets, or shirts are magnets for lost or stolen cash. Once your wallet or bills slip into a pocket, it’s often a race against time to spot it before it’s gone—or worse, before it’s taken.
Expert advice: Opt for fitted clothing or use money belts and hidden pouches to keep your funds secure.
3. Unattended Hotel Room
Even if your hotel is in a safe area, your room isn’t always your safest haven. A quick trip to explore the city can leave your valuables sitting out in plain sight. Worse, hotel rooms aren’t immune to theft—housekeeping staff or roommates could accidentally or intentionally cause issues.
Best practice: Lock your cash in a hotel safe, even if you’re only stepping out for a few hours.
4. Keeping All Your Money in One Place
Scattered threats exist, but concentrated targets are a bigger risk. Storing all your cash, cards, and IDs in one spot—like a wallet or purse—makes you an easy target. If thieves spot your valuables, they’ll move fast.
Diversify: Distribute your cash across multiple secure locations, like a wallet, a money belt, and a safe compartment in your luggage.
5. Large Bills
Carrying around big bills like $100s or €100s might seem efficient, but it’s a recipe for disaster. Not only are large denominations harder to replace if lost or stolen, but they’re also more conspicuous. In high-risk areas, smaller bills are safer and less likely to attract attention.
Pro tip: Break up large bills into smaller denominations for everyday use and emergencies.
6. Your Wallet
Despite the digital shift, wallets remain a go-to for cash storage—but they’re also a prime pickpocket target. Tourist-heavy cities often have higher rates of wallet theft, with thieves using sleight-of-hand or distraction tactics to snatch wallets from outer pockets.
Defense: Keep your wallet in an inner pocket of your backpack or cross it over your chest in crowded areas.
Why This Matters
With global tourism expected to grow by over 40% in the coming years, cash security is no longer a niche concern. As GOBankingRates emphasizes, understanding these risks isn’t just about avoiding embarrassment—it’s about protecting your finances and enjoying your trip without stress.
In short: Stay vigilant, plan ahead, and prioritize security over convenience.
This article is based on GOBankingRates ’ expert analysis. Data and methodologies ensure unbiased advice. For more on travel tips and financial safety, visit their site.
