There are things you can do to keep your valuables safe on the beach, and high on the list is buying good travel insurance that protects you in the event of loss, theft or damage. But if you wander away from your valuables, you are likely to invalidate your policy. So what else can you do to protect your valuables at the beach?
To keep your valuables safe:
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Don't take them with you
We know that it’s hard to be without your phone, and in an increasingly cashless world, you might want to have your card on you too.
You might pass the time with a good book on an e-reader and provide the soundtrack with your iPod.
The problem is that none of these objects mix well with water.
So when you want to go for a dip, what do you do? The reality is that if you leave your valuables unattended, they may get stolen.
The best way to protect your valuables at the beach is not take them at all. Substitute your Kindle for a good, old-fashioned book and switch off completely from the digital world.
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Find protection at the beach
Leaving your phone at home isn’t always a realistic option. If you’re away with someone else but go to the beach alone, you’ll need your phone to arrange when and where to meet up later.
Or you might just not be able to live without your music and your camera to show people what a sunny time you’re having.
Many resorts in more touristy places will run a locker service, where you can store your valuables safely at the beach and only for a small fee. This can free you up to take a dip on your own and not worry.
Bear in mind that asking a nearby bar to stash your goods isn’t the same thing and is more risky. Unless it’s someone you know and trust, this is best avoided.
If you are a person who needs their gadgets on them all the time, you might also want to increase your travel insurance to include a gadget cover add-on.
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Bring a portable safe
Whether or not you’re going to spend time at the beach, having a portable safe abroad is always a good idea. Your accommodation may not have one, and it can give you peace of mind to know that you’ve done everything you can to protect your valuables.
Lots come in various disguises, such as books, which provide decent camouflage against would-be thieves. Others can look exactly like what they are – and these are better for leaving things in your room. Some simply look like elaborate wash bags.
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Make life difficult for thieves
An anti-theft bag is a good investment for people who want to take a dip and don’t have any other option but to leave their valuables unattended.
Most models lock, are slash-proof and can be fixed to an object that a thief might not want to be seen dragging across the beach, like a sun-lounger.
Thieves at beaches are generally opportunists, and will look for unattended bags or moments where people aren’t paying attention, such as on their walk to the sea or while taking a nap. Always be alert, and if you are taking a nap, attach your bag to your arm or leg.
Remember that they will probably do their research, watching people’s movements and finding the easiest wins. Don’t make it easy for them.