21 Travel Security Tips | Road-Tested by a Career Traveler 🕶 🔐

[@NoraDunn]

NOTE! I no longer use LastPass. They had a series of security breaches in late 2022 that were never properly addressed. I have moved to 1Password and it's even easier to use and reports indicate it is more secure. *** Store your ID and protect your Passwords with 1Password: 1password.com *** Protect your Identity with NordVPN! go.nordvpn.net/SH4iK

[@aminor7476]

For VPN, I have been using ExpressVPN for several years. I even bought a wireless router for my home. Now all my home devices are secure.

[@oot-n-aboot]

Yeah, 1PW is the gold standard with info sec folks I know.

[@Kingnome]

Thank you for the update.

[@stephenmg12]

So glad you don't use LastPass anymore.

[@omf4ever]

I was just about comment about the Last Pass hack

[@jimdellavecchia4594]

I'm 56 yrs old and from Phila. I do this every day, whether I am on vacation or not!!

[@NoraDunn]

Nice!

[@stevepollard2169]

Many yrs ago myself and my girlfriend were walking the back streets of Naples and as we approached the main street of the market I heard the stall holders whistling to each other. Obviously a code, ( tourist ahead) I held onto my girlfriend and our shoulder bags and moved on quickly.

[@NoraDunn]

Interesting! Glad you didn't fall for any trickery.

[@leepagnini6273]

Ms Hobo, All of your tips were great. I DO have a fake wallet, and I was in Rome, and a pickpocket got my "fake" wallet! I would have enjoyed seeing his face as he saw all of the phony credit cards inside. (These are the cards we get, that DON'T have our name) I also put in a dollar, that is cut, 1/2 inch, diagonally from the center. I wrote "assh-le" on one side, that would be visible, if they tried to put the halves together, and "thief" on the other side.

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! To be a fly on the wall when they opened the wallet 😝

[@janiekcarney5482]

The point is to not let them take anything from you. This is really funny.

[@heatherframpton9693]

😂😂😂😂😂😂 Love that snarky tip.

[@heatherframpton9693]

​@@NoraDunn yes. Where is that video posted?!? 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@jocelyn8625]

Hahahahha

[@lillianbarker4292]

The paper copy of the passport saved us when my partner’s backpack was stolen. I don’t wear special travel clothing. I use my normal practical clothes and sometimes a piece of jewelry I don’t mind losing. I have a small crossbody bag that I use at the destination and leave my larger travel bag in my room.

[@NoraDunn]

Ooh - glad you had a passport copy!

[@rhofernandez5346]

All the tips are great. I love it. I can add one more tip. Leave a copy of your itinerary trip at home or email a copy of your itinerary so they know what day and where you’re going just in case you’re missing. Also if you’re staying at the hotel, always leave the envelope or the cover of your hotel room key inside your room and just take pic of the envelope with the room number in it. Just bring your room key with you without the cover or envelope. Usually the envelope hotel key has the room number and address of the hotel. You don’t want that envelope with the room key fall off from your purse and missing and when you come back to your room at the end of the day, your belongings has been stolen because someone has found your hotel key with room number in it. It happened to my coworker. Her hotel key fell off from her purse and she didn’t know. Someone stole all her stuff in her hotel room. Come to find out in the cctv who stole it but they couldn’t find that person.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for the tips, Rho! I heartily second you on the hotel key strategy. I do the same myself! I'm definitely going to mention this in a future video.

[@MiaHessMusic]

Great advice!

[@neresq]

We have several "laminated" copies of our passports (using packing tape), and we take at least one set with us on every trip. We secure our real passports, and go out with the copies. In our many decades of traveling the world (since the 1970's), we've never had a problem doing this. We've also created, and always take with us, detailed medical histories which list all medications we currently take, all vaccinations we've had (not just covid), past surgeries and major illnesses, and any conditions for which we are currently being treated. Finally, besides having copies in the Cloud of ALL important travel documents, we also put everything on a flash drive, including info for the credit cards we're carrying, and secure it in a safe place.

[@NoraDunn]

Excellent strategy, Nancy!! Thanks for sharing!

[@Flashistic]

Nancy, sounds like you have developed good strategies. I was going to ask you to explain how you used a "laminated" passport copy but as soon as I had typed my question, voila, it was answered. You say you have never had "a problem doing this". Does that mean you have never had to show your copies to the authorities?

[@JudyG745]

Where is this "secure place" when you are a backpacker staying in hostels with no safe?

[@daklakdigital3691]

PHOTOGRAPH YOUR CARD FRONT AND GET YOUR BANK BRANCH DIRECT DIAL NUMBER AND AN EMAIL TO SOMEONE IN THE BRANCH. HSBC USE TOTAL USELESS CALL CENTRE IN INDIA, THE PHILIPPINES CALL CENTRE IS BETTER.

[@daklakdigital3691]

@@JudyG745 HAVE POCKETS SEWN TO YOUR UNDERPANTS BELT.

[@4nbop80user]

For hold luggage : wrap everything into a large piece of fabric. Airport thieves can open the suitcase zipper but not reach your things without losing a LOT of time.

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - great tip!

[@t_cheating8239]

I love zip ties. Using that deters thieves.

[@NoraDunn]

@@t_cheating8239 Good one!

[@sharone9751]

@@t_cheating8239 And pull the zip ties really tight . . . takes longer to get them off.

[@karenvonbargen4472]

AeroMexico zip ties all your checked bags for you, which made me think….good idea!

[@EricOnYouTube]

Oh, I love convertible pants. they are awesome.

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! To each their own ;-)

[@lmahiram]

Your taxi safety tips are brilliant. On my first solo trip I was robbed by my airport driver on my second city in my two month trip... Rome. Photographing the license plate! yes! Always going forward.

[@NoraDunn]

I'm so sorry that happened to you. I'm glad you found my tips useful!

[@lillianbarker4292]

Twice in my travels Ive found myself in a room with an insecure bedroom door lock. Once it was a B&B and I was the only guest (a younger woman)with no door lock and the male owner down the hall. Thanks for reminding me to get security for that for my upcoming trip. 😊

[@NoraDunn]

A simple doorstop wedge can do the trick!

[@missp.buttons3602]

What is a rubber door stop please?

[@NoraDunn]

@@missp.buttons3602 It's a triangular wedge made of rubber that people use to prop a door open. But it can also be used from the inside when the door is closed to keep people from opening the door and getting in.

[@Hippy2021]

These videos and tips on youtube are extremely useful. Before going to a new place I always check online for safety tips. We were in Barcelona years ago late at night for a nice dinner. The time we're done and waited for the cab, this happened. Daughter and I were sitting on a bench near the main street waiting the Uber. It was only 5 minutes when a group of 3 young girls could be teens came to sit the other side of our bench, acting like innocent tourists. I quickly observed them in the corner of my eye. Exactly as the website warnings on pickpocketing, these girls dressed nicely but when look down to their feet I noticed very dirty feet wearing ugly torn shoes, all of the 3. I pulled my daughter instantly to walk toward a nearest coffee shop. While we get to the store I saw a few young men came to join the girls and they left as we did. This type of trick is very common in Spain, specially Barcelona and I saw many people crying at the airport losing their stuffs. Everyplace has its own manner and tricks different ways. In Florence italy they circle around you pretending to be friendly talking and asking to disturb and distract the victims. I always kept a cold grouchy look to discourage the approach. Paris france seem to be more skilled in this stealing activity. They act fast, instantly by walking near you and pretending touching you by accident. They were once able to open my daughter purse when she was taking photos. She did not feel a thing. Luckily she lost only a little bag of lucky crystals that was on the top of the purse. Everything else remain intact. Since then I don't carry a purse unless we plan to go to a fancy place for dinner, otherwise my fanny pack is my daily company that I carry across the body (, not around the waist) and that hold passport, wallet, keys permanently on my chest and it can be invisible under jacket or coat. The purse is only a decoration accessory holding no important things like scarf, make-up that doesn't cause drama in case..... Always check online what you need to know before a trip and safety tips and rules.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing, Mary! Indeed, it's so important to be vigilant. In fact, I just recently published a video all about pickpocketing - which is rife in Europe, as you know. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qWeWk3enn56qrZY

[@Hippy2021]

@@NoraDunn 👍+subscribed 💕

[@NoraDunn]

@@Hippy2021 Thank you! :-)

[@catheriam1945]

Nora, all your tips useful, practical, potential life and/or travel safe inspiring. Yup: the doorstop. Ordering one as we speak. Oh, please, ladies, no flowing, ankle length resort dresses and flip flops off the cruise ship! And "Convertible pants" Ugh! My pet peeve? American men who wear baseball hats in restaurants with linen and cutlery. Linen ON the table means, dude, that Yankees/Cubs/Chiefs hat comes OFF. Ciao!

[@hellahellahella2023]

Also, I have my passport and driver’s license info MEMORIZED as well as two personal credit card info and 800 #’s MEMORIZED in case of loss/theft or fast access for delayed/cancelled/missed flights - saves me the hassle of pulling out my mobile device or documents in crowded areas and/or faster processing on the phone if the flights were cancelled/delayed.

[@NoraDunn]

Great job on memorizing that info! I tend to have my passport info memorized, but I definitely don't have the 1-800 #s memorized!

[@croswellianprincess3590]

I love convertible pants. I wear the shorts with my outfits but if I say out later or if it gets colder I put the leg parts on so I keep warmer. This way I don’t have to carry around a full set of pants.

[@NoraDunn]

I can't argue with how practical that is! I wish I liked convertible pants. But I just don't like the style, and to me it screams "tourist" - though that's probably an inaccurate association.

[@croswellianprincess3590]

@@NoraDunn I never really liked convertible pants either. But when you’re going for a day trip and the weather changes or the temperature really drops those little leg parts fit perfectly into my small purse without the bulk.

[@janiekcarney5482]

@@NoraDunn I would also say it tells everyone you are a tourist. Thieves know to look for signs like that.

[@lailaansari7293]

Thank you Nira, I always sneak photos of important documents and slip them into a secret pocket ( I sewed one under the lining,easy peazy)..shame how travel has progressed, it used to be fun!!!!❤

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip! Thanks!

[@ddrlbhski6438]

In some Caribbean countries (Trinidad for sure) it's normal to have other people in a taxi with you. There are taxi stands where the cars are going to a specific destination and there is a set fare from point A to B. Most taxi's won't leave until the car is full.

[@maromorostar6621]

Same in some African countries

[@karenricci8885]

Great Tips. I also leave a copy of my Passport at home with a Family Member.... Just Incase. And ... I also leave them copies of my credit cards. And I write down the number on the back of the card, incase it’s stolen.... then you have the number. Happy Travels

[@NoraDunn]

Absolutely! To take this one step further, if you use a password manager, you can give somebody at home special access to your password manager - which then has all the secure info you want them to have, so they can help deal with anything that an emergency could throw at you.

[@margolawnerd2776]

I like the idea of writing the phone number on the back. Those numbers are almost invisible for the older generation!

[@willmarona-jn9wc]

Decoy wallets are a great plan. I carry one when I travel(still have it) and pictures of I D and passport is a good idea. Be aware, be safe. And have fun!

[@NoraDunn]

Great tips! Thanks

[@Petra44YT]

Tip 10 b: Actually look at your hotel's business card before you pocket it. Mine was written only in Hiragana. When I realised that, I asked a passerby whether he could read it for me. He didn't have a lot of English and took me to one of the police stations at a street corner instead. This was in Kyoto. The policemen consulted their map, which was a massive book. They had virtually no English either, but only gestured: "One, two, right." ... I took this to mean, cross two streets, then go right. My interpretation was correct and I was re-united with my hotel. 🤣

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! Glad you made it back to your hotel ;-)

[@user-ov4wr5yu4r]

You can ask further people on the street to look at the address if need be. It's helpful to at least learn hiragana. It's phonetic and locals can write addresses for you in hiragana if you ask. Then you can ask other people verbally for directions.

[@csgyoutubian5208]

Plus! You were traveling in one of the safest places on Earth!

[@ATChick]

I worry about fire and EMS getting into save me if I have a doorstop going the other way. I have a little alarm that hangs on the doorknob that goes off if someone moves it or I can set it for static electricity detection. In hotels I only let it chime but in airbnbs I will set it to the alarm. It's really loud. Went off when someone tried my knob earlier.

[@NoraDunn]

Ooh - that's a very clever device!

[@wigs974]

One thing you missed is a copy of your eyeglass prescription. I had a pair of glasses break while in Europe and had to find someone to fax it over. Much easier if you have and it doesn’t take up much room

[@NoraDunn]

Oh - fantastic tip! Thanks

[@Ada1bert0]

Should be able to get a prescription in most places.

[@lynnrush7166]

I carry the prescription and an old set of glasses just in case.

[@NoraDunn]

@@lynnrush7166 Good call!

[@patticulver]

“Unresolved trauma from wearing convertible pants” hilarious! Love your videos and all of your tips, tricks and advice. Plus, I absolutely LOVE your curly hair! Blessings ❤️

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha - thanks Patti! I appreciate the kind words and appreciation.

[@gregorylunsford3991]

You have all the basic's covered - I learned from my British Friends when I worked in Saudi Arabia in my 30's - learned all your travel tips back then. Loved traveling in Europe( the 80's). Traveling mostly by myself I got mistaken for British ( I'm short and soft spoken). This video is the overall best video I've seen on how to travel and be safe.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much, Gregory!

[@ediejohnson3301]

I had never heard the one about taking photos of the taxi number and license plate. It's a great idea for the driver to see you do it, too. That would probably result in more direct routes. Lol.

[@NoraDunn]

Exactly!

[@ransomcoates546]

@@NoraDunn You seem excessively paranoid to me. Assuming you are in a civilized country photographing a taxi license plate is a good way to produce immediate hostility and the longest way to where you’re going.

[@NoraDunn]

@@ransomcoates546 What would you define as a "civilized country"?

[@ransomcoates546]

@@NoraDunn Western Europe as I know it. If a person is traveling where there is no rule of law I suppose serious precautions must be taken.

[@NoraDunn]

@@ransomcoates546 Exactly! Or at least if not "serious" precautions, then precautions in general.

[@annthompson1]

Thanks for all your great videos. Love the tips, especially the one about the paper copy of passport and insurance

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks Ann!

[@marthamryglod6892]

I travel alone and one of the first things I do when out exploring is go to the local supermarket. Usually Tesco or something, and buy their shopping bag, a baguette, and a few other items. I then put my fanny pack in the bag and stroll around without worrying. I had my bag slashed in Rome and decided to go with the shopping bag. Never had another problem. I also use a doorstop, as well as a bear bell i attach to the doorknob in whatever hotel i stay in. I use a small string of battery operated tea lights as a nightlight so i don't kill myself in the dark trying to find the bathroom!!

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - super tips, Martha! I love it!

[@AJStarhiker]

When I travelled to London several years ago, I kept some cash under the insole of my shoe. I didn't need it, but if I needed money to get back to the hotel or something, I had it.

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip!

[@tplayspiano]

Great tips, even for every day life let alone travel. I’m amazed how many people walk around, paying no attention to their surroundings at all.

[@NoraDunn]

Crazy, right? But I'd be lying if I said I didn't occasionally have to "wake up" to my surroundings after zoning into my phone. And I so dislike it when I see people walking down the street looking at their phones (and bumping into stuff). That's the beauty of travel; when you're on the road you do it...less! Ha ha

[@sunrise6252]

Loved all your safety tips. Hope to solo someday so thank you for all your advice!

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks! Happy travels!

[@comboga]

Tropical shirts also screams tourist.

[@NoraDunn]

Indeed!

[@nadimmustafa8396]

One important tip I use is write a list of all important phone numbers on a paper and have a few copies in various places, so If you loose your phone you can contact family for any assistance. Who can remember phone numbers these days since they are all saved on your phone?

[@NoraDunn]

AMAZING advice! I used to have all the important phone numbers memorized. Now, I'd be hard-pressed to recite even one.

[@1esk192]

You can log into for example your Google account and get access to all your contacts

[@PurpleMeowKitty]

i go to dollar tree for their security alarms!! stick it on the door & if anyone rattles/opens the door it will go off!!! itll scare the hell out of them!!!

[@NoraDunn]

Great idea! Thanks for sharing!

[@blackie-jm9tr]

Ms. Nora, you give the best tips. Thank you for every single one of them. I am sure they are helping thousands of travelers every single day.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much!!! I certainly want to help as many people as possible.

[@RT-fb6ty]

Fantastic information. Everyone should use these proven methods. The door stop is even useful at home just in case.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

Good stuff here. I’m a professional traveler myself and I do most of these… I’m also a survivor of convertible trousers :) Five things I’d add: 1. Use a pre-paid debit card for purchases. No biggie if it’s lost and you can keep it topped up. 2. For a wallet, put a big rubber band round it and it’ll make it harder for a pickpocket to get it out of your pocket, because of the extra friction 3. For my travel clothes I’ve had a tailor fit additional zip pockets inside my original pockets. 4. NEVER PUT YOUR WALLET IN YOUR BACK POCKET. 5. Never put important things in a rucksack unless you lock it. Consider using a chest pouch, a sling or a Fanny pack (worn at the front!)

[@NoraDunn]

Fabulous tips, Bob! Very clever with the rubber band.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

@@NoraDunn Thank you…I’ll be watching your other videos before my next trip in a few weeks

[@NoraDunn]

@@bob_the_bomb4508 Thanks for your support, Bob!

[@qu14torze82]

Thank you from a long time French traveller!

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you too!

[@RKSudan]

ICE - in case of emergency. Your emergency contacts, your health condition, if any, should be handy on you. Write it all on a paper and keep in your pocket. Ditto for the doctor's prescriptions.

[@NoraDunn]

Absolutely!

[@christines1924]

This was SUPERB!! And I'm a street smart city girl. All those things you mentioned that I already do.....didn't know they were a thing! 😮

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks Christine!

[@zucicciu58]

I've watched dozens of similar videos. This is by far the BEST!!

[@NoraDunn]

Aw....thanks!

[@jacks6632]

Always big* tip to housekeeping on first day. Not security tip, but great tip esp in 5* hotels.

[@NoraDunn]

How much do you tip?

[@jacks6632]

@@NoraDunn in a 5*, just leave a 25-30$, They will always then *hopefully* add extras to your room when servicing. If they do, then another tip on last day.

[@NoraDunn]

@@jacks6632 Thanks for the guidance!

[@grapesx2]

I tip per day…3-5 euros (or equivalent)…sometimes different housekeepers service the room on each day and that way it’s something for everyone’s work…

[@NoraDunn]

@@grapesx2 Great point about different housekeepers each day!

[@ashleyhughes2623]

For my upcoming trip to Istanbul. I'm planning to take a few pre-paid credit cards from the Post Office. If someone steals my card or over charges me, no big deal if there is only $30 on the card.

[@NoraDunn]

Great strategy, Ashley!

[@janiekcarney5482]

When I rent a car I take pictures of the whole vehicle! They see me do it and I haven’t had any false accusations about any marks on the car. But I hadn’t thought about taking a picture of the taxi license plate. That is a great idea. And the the taxi number and company. Thank you for that one.

[@NoraDunn]

Fabulous tip for car rentals! Very clever.

[@vickiamundsen2933]

as wonderful as software/devices are... YES, always have a paper backup of the important info!

[@NoraDunn]

Yessssss!

[@warrentrout]

Always leave the Do Not Disturb sign out.

[@NoraDunn]

Good one! I tend to do that too.

[@toonertimesfour1158]

Tip: search the internet for local scams at your destination. You may learn about tricks like being given "free" stuff, signing petitions, etc. One scam for my upcoming trip is you might be asked to take a picture of someone or a couple. When you hand back the camera they will "accidentally" drop it and demand you pay for it.

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip!

[@marvogrady9728]

Another winner, Nora. You beauty.

[@NoraDunn]

Aw - thanks!

[@PatPacheco-em9nx]

I have been taking tips, since we will be in so many places. I have a little note pad with all of the hotels, flight info, phone numbers of the other travelers and I will now include my med list and passport copies. We are going France to Germany to Greece to Romania so a lot of moving parts. I can't wait!

[@NoraDunn]

Good job with the notebook! Happy travels :-)

[@roseannagross5094]

Thank you everything is helpful. We’re going to Europe and me and my sister. I am 76 and she’s 75 looking forward to going to Munich and. Vienna and yes, we have a couple excursions we’re gonna be going on. And yes, I know about staying with the group. Watch you all the time. Love your tips are very helpful. I just bought a passport cover. Now I’m thinking that I don’t need it.

[@NoraDunn]

Enjoy your trip! Very exciting.

[@aminor7476]

The tips that you provide are good Anytime or anyplace. In the US, most parking lot or mall crimes happen to people who are not away of their surroundings.

[@NoraDunn]

True! I use these security practices all the time now, no matter where I am.

[@laoguoba]

Nora, I have watched quite a few videos on travel tips. Your presentations are by far the most helpful. Thanks

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - thank you so much!

[@lathersoaps]

I also carry a decoy phone for photos, maps, general info but keep my actual phone hidden and only comes out if actually needed and in private. If decoy gets stolen, no big deal. Its still PIN protected and photos are automatically backed up to the cloud

[@NoraDunn]

Nice! So it's still a good enough phone to take photos....what kind of phone is it?

[@lathersoaps]

@@NoraDunn It's my previous phone. A Huawei P10. Great camera and still works well after 5 years as my main phone :)

[@NoraDunn]

@@lathersoaps Perfect scenario!

[@donnas3573]

Thanks, Nora, great tips! I've found the doorstop doesn't always work at every hotel, but Amazon sells an inexpensive gadget that fits in your door as you close it, and makes it impossible for anyone to open your door while you're sleeping or showering, yet it's easy to remove when you need to exit your room.

[@shandy3893]

I use a door wedged against and under the doorknob/door handle. The rubber wedge may work, but I'm only 135 lbs and I can shove my way through a door with a rubber wedge doorstop fairly easily, so I don't trust my own safety to those doorstops. It is much more difficult to open a door with a heavy wooden chair up against it...especially if the person is not expecting it to be there! Also, when you leave the room use the do not disturb sign---people then assume you're sleeping in the room, even though you know you're not. I am going to see if I can find the gadget you mentioned also---thank you for that tip!

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip!

[@betsannie]

Do you have an Amazon link for one you have used?

[@Marant1000]

You remind me of a Canadian actor named Leslie Hope. Just saw her on an old episode of The Mentalist. Sorry for this off topic information.

[@NoraDunn]

Ha! It's interesting; I commonly remind people of others. Not sure what it is....

[@violettabicycletta331]

Thank youn lady for those fantastic tips !!! I have saved your video to show to family members ,.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much, Violetta!

[@Flashistic]

Love your tips. I keep meaning to get a decoy, toss wallet, and put fake ID and a few dollar bills in it for my back pocket (real wallet in a discreet other pocket. Last Pass lost my trust months ago, I switched to 1Password on yours and Ask Leo's recommendation. I'm not a digital nomad, wrong generation, and retired, but I do travel. Thanks to vloggers like you, I travel more safely, efficiently, and have less stress. Thanks and keep up the good work.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you SO much, Frank! Made my day. I'm also glad you switched over to 1Password. Is it just me, or is it even more user-friendly than LastPass?

[@Flashistic]

@@NoraDunn It's not just you. Once I spent a couple of days getting used to 1Password I put it on my phone, which I had not had the confidence to do with LastPass.

[@NoraDunn]

@@Flashistic I had LastPass on my phone, but it didn't have nearly the functionality of 1Password.

[@bethmccall9254]

Do you have a recommendation for a hotel motion sensor alarm that is loud enough to scare someone away?

[@NoraDunn]

I have heard of these, but I've never used one so I have no specific suggestions.

[@yorgunsamuray]

It may be impossible not to look like a tourist according to the locality and oftentimes in places with economic disparity looking like a local expat wouln't be that feasible as well. Convertible pants kinda helps with luggage space. Two birds with one stone.

[@NoraDunn]

Great point!

[@mryan3123]

To use a hotel room safe is to open yourself up to theft by employees who have combination overrides. Better to bring a small paper binder clip. Use this to stash documents you were going to keep in the safe, behind the window curtain in a fold near the end furthest away from the window opening. The only thing housekeeping will do is open the curtains. I also travel with a small camera detector and when I check in my first task is to scan the room for cameras. Once in a hotel and once in an Airbnb, I've found pinhole lens cameras hidden. In both cases, they were in the washrooms and yes, I involved the police. If you use USB charging ports found in airports, hotels, or public spaces, you run the risk of malware, hacking, or unauthorized access. To mitigate this, get a USB Data Blocker. It will prevent data transfer while allowing your device to charge.

[@NoraDunn]

Great tips - thank you!

[@larasmith5723]

Such a GREAT TIPS FROM YOU Mryan. I will consider it next time I fly or visit a country. Many THANKS...

[@alannobakht8503]

Awesomes, this is my policy anywhere I go, also the cleanness of the curtain tells you about how the hotel is clean

[@charm8167]

I just bring my own back up battery pack for my devices or a European or British charging plug. I don’t plug into any public usb ports.

[@osmewilkins]

I travel internationally with convertible pants. Coming from a winter weather to a tropical weather, convertible pants is a must.

[@NoraDunn]

Glad they work for you!

[@Quiltify]

I used to travel around with the doorstop. It never worked with any of the doors. LOL I finally threw it out.

[@NoraDunn]

Interesting! Thanks for your input!

[@JCA51698]

If you’re traveling internationally, register your visit with the state department of your country, and know the location of your country’s embassy and/or consulate where you’re visiting.

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip!

[@bassboy8910]

I am a fan of here and travel a lot - I love the travel tips and have a question for you: Did you ever do some acting on NCIS ?

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks! And nope. Not me...

[@JayDeLeon-l6n]

This was great, thank you! Can you advise for any items for a guy to carry, how to carry, and when to use it and such? I am looking at traveling to countries with a bit more risk than I am used it.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks! Pacsafe has lots of great options for guys - pacsafe.com/nora

[@tfrnich]

Showing a written address to a taxi driver only works in some parts of the world. It will not do you any good in many parts of Asia and Africa. Chinese hotels' business cards usually have a simplified map on the back with a picture of some landmark in the vicinity of the hotel.

[@NoraDunn]

Great advice, thanks! Carrying the hotel business card is also a fantastic tip.

[@larsmathiesen]

Hi Nora - Great tips all the way around. I have used the trick of carrying a small second wallet for many years containing a bit of cash plus an old canceled credit card. This way the robber would think that I was not carrying more in another pocket. At least that is the theory. I cannot guarantee that it works as the ruse was never tested. I had a kidnapping attempt on me in Lima, Peru years ago. A long story, but suffice it to say that I got away before getting into the car with my "new" hosts. In such situation, all I can say is never, never go with them. The police chief of the district later outlined a few scenarios for me as to what could have happened had I gone along, none of them particularly attractive.

[@NoraDunn]

Holy moly! Glad you made it out of that scary near-miss situation in Lima!

[@larsmathiesen]

@@NoraDunn Yep, me too and thanks for your nice comments. As mentioned there is a lot of details to this story. Too much to get into here, but as you have mentioned several times, if and when you are targeted, things happens out of blue when you least expect it. My event started at 7am in the morning when someone claiming to be the police man banged on my door at my hotel. It should be mentioned that my hotel was a very nice hotel, although a smaller one in the Miraflores district. When I opened the door he pushed me aside and said that I was under arrest for dealing in counter fit dollars and drugs. From the outline of his kaki west, I noticed that he carried a gun. He then dished up some poor photo copies of pictures depicting dollars and drugs. At this point I realized that he was no more policeman than I was the Pope and my adrenalin level went straight to maximum. If you are interested, I would be glad to type out the full story for you. In the meantime keep up your good work.

[@NoraDunn]

@@larsmathiesen Wow - what little you shared here sounds terrifying.

[@larsmathiesen]

@@Sometungsten It is no doubt good to have a plan. If you are young, strong and two of you, this may be a workable approach and of course that you stick together no matter what. Every such event is different except for the aim of the kidnappers, which is for you to come along quietly at then to have you fully in their power. Luckily, I got away, but luck is really only "Preparation meeting opportunity". With hindsight, I surprised myself of how cool I remained throughout the event, except for one fleeting moment where I was close to panic, but managed to catch myself. That is the preparation, albeit on the spot and likely driven mostly by instinct. The opportunity to extricate yourself, has to be seized at a blink of an eye when it presents itself. All that said, I am not expert in this except perhaps, for my own experience. If you travel frequently to areas where abductions happen, I would suggest to contact an expert for advise to be better prepared. Even after more than 20 years, I still occasionally wake at night with a startle finding myself back in that situation.

[@Julie-zv1xo]

​@@larsmathiesenI would like to hear the whole story but I'm not sure how to. If you ever do type it up let me know.

[@glaubhafieber]

Funny that you take Bangkok taxi footage as an example. You can easily just note the number from the yellow number plate inside of the cars door

[@clkbunny6766]

It's been a long time since I thought about the decoy wallet. Good advice. Many years ago I lived in the Philippines for a couple of years and I always used the decoy wallet.

[@NoraDunn]

Did you ever need to “use” the decoy wallet?

[@clkbunny6766]

@@NoraDunn luckily no

[@fquiroz53]

Ok dude, your videos are my newest KZbin obsession :)

[@NoraDunn]

Haha - thanks!

[@nnyl3013]

Convertible pants are great for hiking/camping. I wouldn't wear them in a city.

[@NoraDunn]

Great point! I agree.

[@deborahhansen2983]

I love your style! Your tips are great AND you give clear details. THANK YOU!

[@NoraDunn]

Thank YOU, Deborah!

[@thomasw5003]

Those convertible pants just scream I’M A TOURIST 😂. Great travel tips as usual

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! Glad you agree ;-)

[@arosete3512]

Best safety tips ever.

[@EdwinMartin]

If you’re European, get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). It’s free and when you have to go to the hospital in another European country, getting checked in to the hospital becomes so much easier.

[@NoraDunn]

Ooh - good to know!

[@aminor7476]

I always use either Uber or Bolt, never use a traditional taxi!

[@NoraDunn]

Me too, whenever possible.

[@aminor7476]

I am going to Crete in a couple of weeks, and neither Bolt nor Uber operate their. So, I will have to use local taxis. I’ll see how that works. 😊

[@NoraDunn]

@@aminor7476 If I recall correctly, on Crete you can negotiate rates in advance should you choose. (I could be wrong).

[@aminor7476]

@@NoraDunn I will let everyone know when I return! 😊

[@Toastfacekillah87]

Here is a London one... Busiest Underground stations include London are Kings Cross St.Pancras (for the Eurostar to Paris, Belgium, etc and long distance services to Scotland), Waterloo, Paddington (for Heathrow express) and Victoria. These are all busy links to national rail. Whatever you do, when you go to the Underground from national rail never ever ever ever ever ever look at the Underground map in the concourse to see what line you need to be on... what station you need to be at... You will look like a tourist and all the pickpockets and other opportunists will be sizing you up and eventually follow you. Just download the Transport for London map and look at it on your train on the way. If you don't know where you are going dont bother travelling. Go to a station cafe and sit down and plan your route. Many Americans imo do not take safety in London seriously. It can be a very dangerous city.

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip - thanks!

[@aminor7476]

Your tips are good even in your familiar environment, like home!

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you - and I agree!

[@Mr.DJones]

Thank you for your time and posting. I'm 6'2", white and bald. Any tips on blending in in Vietnam? All suggestions are appreciated. :)

[@NoraDunn]

😆 6'2" white and bald? Maybe don't try too hard to blend in ;-)

[@Mr.DJones]

@@NoraDunn I"ll slouch.

[@NoraDunn]

@@Mr.DJones 😂

[@ketunlimited]

Love your tips, though I had slightly different experiences with regards to looking like an obvious tourist trying to navigate with huge paper maps ( this was years ago before smart phones and googlemaps) Happened in South Korea and Taiwan, both places I had locals approaching me asking if I need help when I was, rather embarrassingly, looking rather lost 😅 This obviously won't be the case in all countries, just thought I'll share my experiences in the 2 particularly friendly countries 😊

[@NoraDunn]

I'll admit, in many parts of Asia, people are more likely to help a lost-looking tourist than take advantage of them.

[@ChristopherChin141]

Nora, ... all great stuff. Sorry for this late post ... just now catching up on your channel.. I travel quite a bit ... +250 flights per year and several continents. Personal observation: Paper is King. My passport, ID and insurance ... I have paper photo copies in zip-lock bags. Also a bit of local currency in cash. Then ... my last line of defence travel insurance is a rather non-flashy wrist watch (Sub Mariner) that I know I can sell/trade/barter and get back to home (Canada) from anywhere in the world. (I travel in some rather off the beaten trail places) Safe travels!!

[@NoraDunn]

Great tips - thanks Christopher!

[@jldisme]

Tip to immediately see if an area is safe or not - if there are a number of women and children in the area, that's a good sign that things are okay..

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip!

[@yorgunsamuray]

Though sometimes male and female criminals work together to give a false sense of safety too. Sometimes couples can even use their kids for that.

[@janiekcarney5482]

Good taxi tips. Especially taking a picture of the license plate. But they will know you are a tourist!! Nobody does that.

[@NoraDunn]

Yes, and no. I learned this tip from a woman in Colombia who said it's common practice there, even for locals.

[@petershaw3456]

The driver will know you are a tourist anyway as soon as you get in the cab, by your accent, lack of knowledge of their city etc. So, take the photo!

[@C2yourself]

The luggage is a clear sign you're a traveler but that doesn't mean you're naive. Take the picture and let the driver see you. The best defense is a strong offense. For all they know you texted those photos to your partner, employer, family etc.

[@NoraDunn]

@@C2yourself Totally!

[@sammencia7945]

Always have Xerox Copy of id page of passport and visa.

[@NoraDunn]

YES!

[@Upcycledbaglady]

Your delivery reminds me of Jody Foster. Love your content after 2 videos. New subscriber!

[@NoraDunn]

Aw - thanks!

[@dave928]

YES to convertible travel pants.

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! Better you than me ;-)

[@mglew]

I just got home from a trip to Bali where I lost my phone. It’s amazing how hard It is to get up and running with a new phone when overseas as even my mobile provider required SMS security checks to reinstall the eSIM. (Doesn’t make sense does it?) I ended up spending literally hours on the phone with my bank and my mobile provider to work around these problems…. Not easy when one is trying to run a business while overseas.

[@NoraDunn]

OH dear I hear you. These kinds of setbacks can be so infuriating and time-consuming while working full-time from abroad! You're preaching to the choir.

[@mglew]

Maybe a backup phone is a good idea

[@MiaHessMusic]

Excellent tips!!!! I learned Tip 21 ages (50 years) ago! May I add Tip 22: I always carry extra cash (enough to get me back to my hotel by cab and a bit extra) in my shoes underenath the lining or in my sock on the bottom of my foot. I also carry cash inside my bra lining if i'm wearing a sports bra. I learned these tricks when I lived in Hell's Kitchen in NYC when it was a super dicey place to live and I was coming home late after work. I had really good tips (worked in a 4 star resutaurant) and I wanted them coming home with me!! Even on my last few trips to NYC, I sitll did this!

[@NoraDunn]

Fantastic tip, Mia! Thank you

[@ucapt-it6vf]

Amazon sells a pair of head ban type of knits material wrist ban, with zipper pockets inside. I keep my 2 credit cards, local cash inside on each wrist. It's always on my wrist, I can see it, it's difficult for thief's. My passport is always inside my shirts, it's doesn't matter what outfit I wear. I'm a world traveler, I keep some local cash in a Ziploc bags, people laugh at me and I don't care😅 as.long as my money is still with me.

[@NoraDunn]

@@ucapt-it6vf great tips!

[@angellamiller12]

I’m traveling within the USA, & do not have time to get a passport or money to have it Expedited so have to rely on my birth certificate.

[@iamjohn527]

I travel to Mexico a lot and I always carry a decoy wallet. These are great tips . Ive been doing most of them. I quit renting cars in Mexico to much of a hassle for me. They make mucho dinero on dents/chipped windshields that were already there and the insurance scam heaven forbid if you get in any kind of accident. That being said I love Mexico!!

[@NoraDunn]

Interesting about the rental car situation. Whenever I rent a car, I walk around it with the staff member, and I record it on video. That way, we have video proof of any existing chips/dents etc prior to me getting the car.

[@iamjohn527]

@@NoraDunn I do the same thing but they still work that angle some dents don't show up in certain light you pull out of their lot and park at the next lot to get groceries and walla new dents just showed up in the new angle and little tiny windshield chips that are easily missed can spread when you go up in altitude then you get the blame. Plus the gringo tax $100 is alive and well from their police and it's hard to find a non corrupt gas station other than Costco LOL.

[@rossspokes5119]

I was glad to hear that you Have a LASTPASS ACCOUNT. I do as well, and like you, I think it is fantastic and very secure. Very good tips by the way.

[@NoraDunn]

Actually, after the LastPass breaches, I jumped ship and moved to 1Password. It's even easier to use, simple to switch over, and they'll pay customers to switch, so no money lost. www.anrdoezrs.net/click-100713654-14464697

[@vincepmayne1877]

Love It! I was a road warrior for many years circling the globe for work. Great list of safety concepts. Wish you well with your new channel.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much, Vince!

[@boda.t]

Very useful tips! Thanks

[@harveyh3696]

07:00 I have Last Pass but I hear that had some security issues recently. My understanding is your master password is still secure.

[@NoraDunn]

After the security incidents in late 2022 (and their lack of transparency in reporting it), I jumped ship from LastPass over to 1Password. The switch was easy, and I'm even happier with this service, which is more user-friendly.

[@marksuddjian4570]

After watching this video I think I'll just stay at home and be extra safe. Maybe hang out in my closet. Why take a risk when there is evil all around?

[@NoraDunn]

This video is not about evil lurking everywhere; but when one travels we are additionally vulnerable to risks, scams, etc. These tips simply empower people to be aware and safe. It's common street sense, not paranoia.

[@robertaturk]

@@NoraDunn This was a joke!!!

[@margolawnerd2776]

Tried to discuss with my husband and that is exactly what he said, "Might as well stay home to be safe!"

[@twx15192183]

Hi Nora, thanks for the tips! These are so useful and practical. But just want to inform you that Lastpass gets compromised too. Just this year once and last year twice. So it's not that safe either.

[@NoraDunn]

Hi Alyssa, Actually I know. I made this video when LastPass was still in my good books. I've since switched teams, but I can't change the video 😬

[@sueskiing]

@@NoraDunn so who do you use now?

[@NoraDunn]

@@sueskiing I use 1Password. Love them; it's even easier and more reliable to use.

[@NoraDunn]

@@hlw1306 Great suggestion! DONE. :-)

[@jameswhite937]

Thank you very much. Much appreciation.

[@NoraDunn]

With pleasure!

[@PhishedOff]

Thank you!!!!!!

[@NoraDunn]

Pleasure!

[@phillippalana4143]

May I add a tip about hailing a taxi? If Uber (or Grab in some other parts of the world) exists where you're at, take it. As a rule, a passenger is safer riding an Uber (or Grab) than hiring a regular taxicab plying around the city or area.

[@NoraDunn]

100% I am a huge fan of ride-sharing services because they're way more safe and secure. Not infallible, but definitely safer than street taxis.

[@orthodiva7487]

Are the taxi’s in Rome safe? How do you get ride sharing?

[@NoraDunn]

@@orthodiva7487 I can't speak from personal experience about the taxis in Rome, but I'll always try for ride-sharing first. Uber and Lyft are examples of ride-sharing.

[@canslono1084]

Excellent video! Extremely helpful information.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks!

[@qwerty90615]

I flew into Buenos Aires and was singled out by some government agents who told me I was a prime target. They told me about a taxi scam where I'd get in a cab and the driver would stop for another passenger. The new passenger pulls a gun and robs us, then runs away. The driver then drives to a fake police station where we "report the crime", which keeps the scam undetected.

[@NoraDunn]

WOW! Thank you for sharing this cautionary tale! How does one avoid getting into the wrong cab?

[@qwerty90615]

@@NoraDunn ​@NoraDunn The official escorted me to the cab stand and put me into a specific cab. The idea of conspicuously taking a photo of the cab license is smart. We were told later by a tour guide that some of the "mothers" with children who were begging actually were borrowing the children to use as props to enhance their pleas for sympathy. I suppose it was poverty's way of day care. I'd never witnessed such widespread severe poverty as in those favelas.

[@NoraDunn]

@@qwerty90615 I've also heard of people borrowing children to use a props to earn money or beg from tourists. It's very sad.