11 Things You Shouldn’t Keep in Your Wallet When Traveling

Losing your smartphone while traveling can be a nightmare, putting sensitive personal and financial data at risk. According to a report by Prey Project, around 70 million smartphones are lost each year, with only 7% recovered.¹ 

To avoid potential identity theft, financial loss, and endless hassles from a lost or stolen smartphone, it’s crucial to take proper security precautions. 

Here are 11 items you should leave at home to minimize the impact of a lost or stolen wallet.

1. Social Security Card

Carrying your Social Security card is an open invitation for identity theft. A skilled thief needs only your Social Security number to open credit cards or take out loans in your name.

Memorize the number instead, and leave the physical card securely locked at home.

2. Birth Certificate

Your birth certificate is another document that should remain safely tucked away in a fire-proof box at home. Only take it out when you need it for official paperwork that requires multiple forms of identification.

3. Password Cheat Sheets

Keeping a list of usernames and passwords in your wallet is a recipe for disaster. If your wallet is lost or stolen, potential thieves gain access to your accounts.

Consider using a password manager instead.

4. Excess Cash

While it’s wise to carry some cash for emergencies, carrying too much can be a liability. Follow the rule: “Only carry as much cash as you’re willing to lose.”

Revealing an excess of cash in your wallet can make you a prime target for pickpockets and thieves.

5. Unprotected Phone

Our phones have become our lifelines, storing sensitive information like bank account details and passwords. Ensure your phone is secured with a lock code or biometric authentication to prevent unauthorized access if it’s lost or stolen.

6. Multiple Credit Cards

Carrying multiple credit cards increases the risk of identity theft if your wallet is lost or stolen. Stick to one rewards credit card for everyday purchases and a backup card for emergencies.

7. Passport

While it’s hard to avoid needing your passport while traveling abroad, leave it in a hotel safe when you don’t need it. Make photocopies of your passport and carry those instead.

8. Checkbook

Checks contain a wealth of information, including your account number, routing number, and address. If possible, avoid carrying your checkbook altogether.

If you must, carry only one check filled out with as much information as possible.

9. Debit Card

Unlike credit cards, debit cards provide direct access to your bank account. If stolen, a thief can drain your account, and banks may not cover the loss.

Consider using a credit card for travel expenses instead.

10. Membership Cards

While traveling, it’s unlikely you’ll need proof of organizational memberships. An exception would be a travel organization card that provides discounts or lounge access.

11. Receipts & Paperwork

Receipts and paperwork can contain sensitive information, such as account numbers or addresses. Shred or discard them before traveling to minimize the risk of identity theft.

Source:
1. linkedin.com