If you're traveling outside your home country, check out the US State Departments website. It's a great resource even if you're a Brit going spelunking in Mongolia.
- Don't put your wallet in your back pocket. Don't leave your purse open or draped over the back of a chair.
- Don't keep all of your money on you. Don't EVER walk around with ALL your cash and consider leaving in the morning with either your debit card OR your credit card, never both. That way you're not left high and dry should you get robbed.
- Try not to look like an overt tourist, especially if you find yourself where close contact is cultural. ID'ing yourself as an out-of-towner can make you a target for pickpockets and scam artists. Try to blend in. Obviously, don't wear a sari to India if you're not Indian. But maybe don't wear your American flag t-shirt while you wander around snapping pics on your expensive smartphone.
- Trust your instincts. You know when things aren't right. When that person is being too nice. When something seems too good to be true. When that food is probably gonna be a NOPE. You know....remain a teensy bit skeptical and always listen to your gut.
- Don't travel with stacks of cash. The Washington Post reports that many states, including Tennessee, have procedures in place to seize large sums of cash from travelers driving in the US (aka Policing For Profit). If you do happen to have $1000+ with you when you get pulled over, keep the interaction brief and respectful, but ask if you are free to go and do not consent to a search of your vehicle.
- written by JLK
