Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Air Travelers' Personal Security

By Louise Servage

Today no mater where you are going if you plan on going there by air then you will end up spending hours in the airport, carrying your possessions around from one gate to another, shuffling bags, purchasing food, and just sitting around and waiting.

The more time travelers spend at the airport, the more travelers' personal security is an issue. These tips will help minimize the risk of losing your valuable belongings while traveling.

Travelers' Personal Security ? Packing

Never forget security begins at home. When time comes to pack your belongings, try to place your most valuable items in your carry-on luggage so that it will always be close to you. This way you can always keep an eye on it and be aware of anyone trying to steal or tamper with it.

If you or part of your travelling party plans on taking jewellery, this might mean wearing your most valuable pieces on the flight. Large diamond ear studs are fine to wear with everyday travel clothing; others will assume they are cubic zirconium, or rhinestones. Necklaces and bracelets can be worn under clothing that masks the neck and wrists. Make sure that the clasps and hooks are in good repair, you do not want to accidentally lose your jewellery while walking through the terminal.

What you cannot wear should be packed in a handbag or fanny pack. Beware of backpacks ? would-be thieves can open a bulging backpack and remove valuable items without the traveler ever knowing their personal security was breached.

Travelers' Personal Security ? Cash

Every traveler needs some cash at the airport for tips, newspapers, meals, and sundries. However, no traveler should carry more cash than absolutely necessary. Usually about $20 to $30 in fives, tens, and ones will meet the traveler's need for cash at the airport. Every modern airport has an ATM. If you need cash at your destination, use the airport ATM after you arrive at your final stop. Carrying, and flashing, large amounts of cash create an irresistible temptation for thieves.

Travelers' Personal Security ? Shopping

The key to safety when travelling is to if possible travel with a companion, this will allow you to have someone who can watch your belongings for you while you shop, eat, and use the restroom. If you are travelling alone, it is good advice to try to rent a locker to store your belongings in if you have a long wait for your flight. Even if you need to rent two or more lockers to stow all your belongings, you will find that it is easier to carry a small key around instead of lugging bags filled with your valuable belongings around the airport while waiting for your flight.

Travelers' Personal Security ? Security Check

One of the most common places for travellers to lose things is, ironically, while they go through security. As you pass through security, be vigilant of how many trays have your belongings in them, and be sure to check that you have collected the same number trays before you leave security. - 15224

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