Personal Safety

How to Reduce the Risk of Theft, Robbery and Other Incidents While Travelling

Most trips are completed without any serious problems. By staying aware of your surroundings and taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk of theft, robbery and other unwanted incidents.

At Your Hotel

  • On arrival, check where the emergency exits and evacuation routes are located.
  • Keep your passport, larger amounts of cash and other valuables in a secure hotel safe.
  • Do not leave valuables visible in your hotel room.
  • Do not open the door to people you do not know without first checking who they are.
  • Ask hotel staff whether there are any areas nearby, or particular times of day, when extra caution is advisable.

Protect Yourself Against Theft and Robbery

Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in many tourist areas around the world. Be particularly alert at airports, railway stations, markets, on public transport and in other crowded places.

  • Carry only what you need for the day.
  • Keep money, bank cards and your passport in separate places.
  • Consider using a concealed money belt or secure travel pouch.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewellery, watches and electronic devices.

Bear in mind that travel insurance policies often have limits on compensation for cash, important documents and stolen valuables.

Common Tourist Scams

Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true. Travellers may encounter excessive charges, unlicensed taxis, tampered cash machines (ATMs), card fraud and people falsely claiming to be police officers or other officials.

Alcohol, Drugs and Personal Safety

Alcohol and drugs can impair judgement, reduce awareness and increase the risk of accidents, robbery and other crimes.

  • Never leave your drink unattended.
  • Be cautious about accepting drinks from people you do not know.
  • Look out for friends and travelling companions.

In some destinations, drugs or medicines may be added to drinks in order to facilitate robbery, assault or other crimes.

When You Are Out and About

  • Where possible, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • Use licensed taxis or reputable transport services. Where appropriate, note or photograph the vehicle registration number and driver details before setting off.
  • Trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe.
  • If you are going somewhere alone, consider letting a travelling companion or someone you trust know where you are going.

Be Cautious with New Acquaintances

Most people you meet while travelling have good intentions, but be aware that tourists are sometimes targeted for scams, theft, extortion and other crimes. Do not hand over your passport, bank cards or other personal documents to people you do not know unless there is a legitimate official reason to do so.

Travelling with Children

  • Check that balconies, stairs and windows are safe and secure.
  • Be aware that electrical sockets and other safety standards may differ from those you are used to at home.
  • Never leave young children unattended near swimming pools, beaches or balconies.
  • Consider giving your child the name and contact details of your hotel or accommodation to carry in case you become separated.

Senast uppdaterad 2026-09-02