Modupe Gbadeyanka
By Adeniyi Ogunfowoke
Solo travellers are more likely to get targeted by thieves than those travelling as a group. For this reason, it’s important to keep your money safe when travelling. Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency, shares tips for warding off the pickpockets and burglars.
Carry limited cash
You certainly shouldn’t be carrying too much cash around with you in your wallet. If you’ve got a hotel to use as a base, make sure to leave some cash there so that not all your monies are on you.
Divide and hide
Divide and hide your cash into separate pouches or hiding places. For example, you can carry a money pouch under your clothing, with one ATM card and a small amount of cash. If a theft occurs, you are not stranded without access to any funds.
Don’t advertise yourself to thieves
Potential thieves know their terrain. They can easily differentiate a tourist or traveller from a local. However, you can make matters worse by not being discreet with your money. Try not to rummage through notes in public or talk too loudly about how much money you’re carrying as this could entice a local pickpocket to target you.
Don’t be naive
To protect yourself against savvy thieves, be vigilant about watching your purse or wallet, particularly when passing a tourist gathering spot. Exchange enough money at the airport to get you to your hotel with some to spare. Keep a few notes for tips and small purchases in easily accessible areas.
Use other creative stashing methods
There are lots of ways that you can creatively stash cash when travelling abroad. These may include putting notes in eyeglass cases, in between pages of books or even stuffed in socks. You can even cut open the lining of your bag and slide some cash in here.
