I published a version of this newsletter last summer, and the response was quite positive. Since travel season is kicking into high gear, I thought it might be a good reminder for those who saw it and great info for those who didn’t. And for everyone, there is a “real-life travel story” from a friend of a friend this time that you shouldn’t miss. Here we go!
When tourist season starts, the pickpockets swarm. These thieves love us for keeping the following items in our wallets while we’re out and about.
- Social Security card
- Medicare card
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Multiple credit or debit cards
- Password or PIN cheat sheet
- Gift cards
- A blank check or two
- Receipts with personal info on them
- A spare house key (This last one is such a bonus. Not only do they know where we live, but now we’ve given them the key to our castle!)
Are you guilty of having ANY of the above items in your wallet? If so, do yourself a huge favor; please remove them and store them securely. Now let’s see what’s left that should be there.
·Cash (what you usually need or feel comfortable carrying)
·One, maximum two, credit cards (or one credit card and one debit card)
·ID/Driver’s license
·Medical card (If you have medical conditions or allergies, providers should know about)
·Insurance card
·Emergency contact information
In last year’s newsletter, I warned about how a stolen or lost wallet can ruin a perfect vacation and possibly result in identity theft. Late last year, a friend’s friend went off on what should have been a great week with her daughter in Mexico. Day #1, her purse was stolen! Can you imagine? Credit cards, cash, driver’s license, passport, everything! But this savvy traveler had taken a simple precaution before she left home. She photocopied all her important documents and cards and tucked that in her luggage. So when the worst happened, she was ready. Yes, it was still a big hassle, but the credit card company sprang into action, and she could get on the plane back home without the required credentials. Vacation saved.
Before you hit the road (or go to the airport), take action now to prevent the “bad guys” from having a good time at your expense.
Enjoy your travels and stay safe!
Very best regards,
David