Criminals and Petty Thieves Travel Too!

Do you often wonder how many crimes are committed at the airports? Eighty-five percent of crimes committed against travelers occur at the airport.

Approximately 2 million passengers fly a day with an expected 1 billion passenger to fly per year by the year 2015. More people travel, more opportunities for criminals to prey on unsuspecting travelers.

Let's talk about how not to become a victim of crime. Remember to purchase privacy tags for your luggage to keep your information just that--private. A name and phone number is sufficient on privacy tags.

Don't give out personal information out loud. Write down the information or speak softly so no one else will overhear. Do not give out financial or personal information while talking on your cell phone. Do not work on confidential files while on the airplane. You don't know if the person behind you is staring through the gap in between the seats.

Use the buddy system if you can when visiting the bathroom. Some bathrooms across our nation are used for meeting places for men or women looking for a good time. Direct all questions to airline employees, security or police if you need information.

When traveling through airport security be sure to place your valuables and all metal objects in your carry-on and not the small trays they provide you at checkpoint. Do not place money clips with your paper money still attached in the small trays. You are really asking for trouble. Be sure to walk through the metal detector at the same time your carry-on and purse are going through.

At Chicago O'Hare a passenger placed his computer on a chair and because it wasn't in front of him, he then forgot it. A criminal saw a computer sitting by itself, sat down on the chair where the computer was and slid it into his jacket and walked off in less than 30 seconds. Good news is that is was recovered.

If you are traveling out of the country, register with the Department of State. This way they know you are abroad and can assist you if you ever help.

Wear a money belt for important documents, money and your passport. Buy a handbag made with wire. You can purchase or view these purses and bags at my website. Always keep your wallet in your front pocket and when you take it out, do not set it down on the counter. It may disappear or you may walk away and forget it.

Make two copies of your passport. One copy should be left with a trusted family member or friend; the other should be stowed in your carry-on luggage. This way you have a copy if you lose it or if it gets stolen. Don't act like a tourist. Dress like the locals and act like the locals.

Tourists are likely targets. Be familiar with local laws and customs. Ask your hotel concierge what neighborhoods are safe to walk in at night and know the one that are not. Lastly, always use your intuition. If your gut tells you that something is wrong, listen to it!

I am providing this information to you not to make you paranoid, but to make you aware of the need for preparation for a safe and happy trip. Please be aware of your surrounding, especially if you are abroad.

Happy and Safe Travels!