Travel safety is something I had to learn the hard way. While studying abroad in Barcelona, my phone was snatched right out of my hand by a bicyclist. Like most people, I never thought it would happen to me. Now, with more travel experience under my belt, I want to share what I’ve learned along the way — and bring in advice from seasoned experts — to help you stay prepared for any safety challenges that might come up while you travel. 

I had the opportunity to speak with travel safety expert Kevin Coffey, a retired Los Angeles Police Department detective with extensive experience investigating crimes against travelers, and he emphasized, “People don’t think these things will happen to them, but they always do to someone.”

Similarly, Lloyd Figgins, who has over 20 years of experience in international security and has traveled to over 80 countries, including some of the world’s most dangerous regions, shared one of the biggest mistakes travelers make is failing to research their destination and understand the risks. “Your safety and security is your responsibility,” he advised. “Get into the habit of owning it.”

With insights from these experts, I’ve compiled the key dos and don’ts to help you avoid dangerous situations like pickpocketing and theft while traveling, as well as the best safety products to carry with you to be one step ahead of would-be thieves. 

Don’t: Travel without an Apple AirTag

Do: Put one in every travel bag (even your carry-on)

Apple Airtags 4-pack

Reyke Smart Tag

Using an Apple AirTag or a similar tracking device can be a game-changer when it comes to locating your belongings. While it’s an obvious precaution if your bag is stolen or your checked luggage is lost, it’s actually a crucial gadget to place in all of your bags (suitcases, backpacks, purses, totes — anything you might bring on a trip), according to Coffey. He stresses that you should especially stow one in your carry-on bag as it typically “holds your most essential items: laptop, medication, chargers, and toiletries,” and, if you board last and there isn’t room in the overhead bins, you’ll need to check it anyway.

“Travelers with tracking devices in their luggage have been able to direct airlines exactly where to find their property,” he explained. “I always tell people that you can’t afford to travel without a tracking device in every piece of luggage, or anything that could get lost or stolen.” He adds, “Whenever possible, try to hide them so they’re not easily found. If it’s lost in an airport or put on the wrong carousel, at least you’ll have a way to track it down.”

Pro tip: “When I check my bag, I do it with the mindset that I may never see it again. It sounds harsh, but I only pack items in checked luggage that I can afford to lose or replace.” — Kevin Coffey

Don’t: Use a paper luggage tag 

Do: Use a metal, anti-theft luggage tag

Gostwo 7-pack Silicone Luggage Tags

Ovener Aluminum Luggage Tags

In addition to using tracking devices, investing in a durable, anti-theft luggage tag for your carry-on is essential. Coffey explains that a common mistake he sees travelers make is only putting luggage tags on their checked bags and neglecting their carry-on (and the possibility that they might have to check it at the gate): “People don’t expect to lose their carry-on, assuming it will always be waiting for them after they check it.” 

However, if your carry-on does end up gate-checked, the flight crew attaches a small tag with an elastic band. “If that flimsy band wasn’t secured properly or gets caught between other bags, it can easily stretch, break, or fall off,” Coffey warned. “Once that tiny tag is lost, the chances of finding your luggage decrease significantly.”

Coffey recommends opting for a sturdier tag with a more secure attachment mechanism. “I really like tags with a braided steel cable because they’re far less likely to break or be removed,” he added. Over at Amazon, you can stock up with the Gotswo 7-pack Silicone Luggage Tag Set or the Ovener Aluminum Luggage Tags, which come in a handy set of two.  

Don’t: Expect to have access to an outlet

Do: Carry a portable charger

Loveledi Portable Charger

Iniu Portable Charger

Portable chargers are essential for staying connected while traveling. Whether you’re navigating unfamiliar streets or relying on GPS, a portable charger ensures your phone won’t die when you need it most. Often, while exploring a new city, access to outlets is limited, and in emergency situations, a fully charged phone can be a lifeline. Figgins shares, “I always carry a power bank so I’m never without a way to communicate, even during power outages.”

Portable chargers also save you from the hassle of searching for outlets, which can be crowded or unreliable in public places. And on a plane, if you’re unlucky enough to be without an outlet, a portable charger will keep your devices powered for entertainment or important tasks. With trusty power banks like the Loveledi Portable Charger and Iniu Portable Charger in your bag, you’ll always have power at your fingertips.

Pro tip: “Most travelers have never walked through and practiced the recovery process of a phone that was lost or stolen. Sometimes, most people don’t have their recovery passwords and Apple IDs and passwords when they’re traveling to try to recover.” — Kevin Coffey 

Don’t: Depend on your phone’s flashlight

Do: Bring a portable flashlight

GearLight LED Flashlights

Lighting Ever LED Flashlights

As our travel experts have noted, it’s crucial to be prepared for the unexpected while traveling. Whether you’re dealing with a power outage in a hotel, a remote Airbnb, or a campsite, a dedicated flashlight ensures you won’t be left in the dark. If you plan to explore at night — if it’s a walk, hike, or just the return from dinner — as Figgins advises, “A flashlight or headlamp is always useful.”

Relying solely on your phone’s flashlight isn’t ideal; it drains the battery, which you need for navigation and communication, and its light isn’t nearly as powerful as a standard flashlight. Worried about space? Compact flashlights, like the portable ones from GearLight and Lighting Ever above, are easy to pack, offering a much better solution without taking up much room.

Don’t: Put all your trust in the hotel or Airbnb’s door lock

Do: Bring your own lock and door wedge