31 Days of Frugal Travel Tips: Day 30


30. Be aware: One of the easiest ways to lose money while traveling is having it stolen. I would always recommend that you be aware of your surroundings. Know if where you are traveling to has a problem with pickpockets (especially in subways or around places where tourists tend to gather, museums, plazas, lines, airports). Keep your valuables safe. Don´t travel with a lot of cash or wear conspicious jewelry. Try to blend in and not become a target. Though for many these things are common sense, I see tourists every day where I live get taken advantage of. If someone approaches you, be assertive and/or walk away. 

A lot of times there are professionals in tourist areas who make their money by taking yours. This might be people who literally steal from you, or it might be that they have a scheme to take advantage. Here in Seville there is a group of women who hang around our cathedral and offer to read tourist´s palms (in exchange for money of course). They approach people and are pushy enough that a lot of times they get their way (and their cash). These types of things are unfortunately common. You don´t want to lose your hard-earned money and nothing can ruin a vacation more quickly than becoming aware that you have no wallet, so be aware. It is a surprisingly easy way to be frugal.

Comments

  1. Air Charter GuideJanuary 15, 2013 at 12:56 PM

    Professional thieves are a menace wherever you travel. These are very good tips. Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Muslim TravelJanuary 30, 2013 at 6:52 AM

    I always dissuade people from traveling with a lot of cash. If you really have to you should at least try to be inconspicuous.

    ReplyDelete

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