There are many ways to safeguard personal items while roaming the world. Most are simple actions we take wherever we are. Then, when on the road, at sea or in the air, we merely need to practice those basics with maximum attention to surroundings and need for personal safety.

1. Your credit card is one of your most valuable possessions. It's not only because you can use it instead of carrying large sums of cash, but in the wrong hands, a stolen credit card can cost you dearly. Use it only when absolutely sure of its security, as when paying for air travel and hotels. 2. When checking into a hotel, to protect valuable jewelry and large amounts of cash, have the front desk clerk put them in the hotel safe. If there’s a room a safe, use it.

3. Ask the front desk clerk for all hotel and local emergency phone numbers, and keep them on your smartphone for quick reference. If you feel there’s danger of robbery or other crime, in the U.S. 911 is the usual emergency number. Call emergency numbers within the hotel to bring quicker response.

4. Don't immediately open your hotel room door to any visitor, including those identifying themselves as hotel employees. Through the peep hole, ask for name, department and job title, and then call the front desk to verify that the person was specifically sent to your room. If you have valuables and/or extra cash in the room safe, don't open it if any stranger, including a hotel staffer, is in the room with you.

5. When returning to the hotel late at night, and especially if there’s jewelry, cash and other valuables with you, stay in well-lighted areas and use the front entrance only. When in the parking lot or garage, be alert to any suspicious people nearby. In dark, unfamiliar areas, keep your smarphone on and in your hand, ready for instant use. If you feel unsafe in the hotel garage and elevators, call the front desk to send a security guard for escort to your room.

6. When in the room, close the door securely and lock it. When retiring for the night, use the extra locking door devices for best security. Keep your smartphone on and next to you on the night table.

7. Keep the hotel key or key card in a secure place on your person throughout the day. If needed to show to security, front desk or anywhere else, be sure it’s returned and safely put away.

8. When in shopping areas, restaurants and any other crowded public places, keep wallet or handbag and their contents secure. Wallets should be in inside pockets, preferably zipped. Pocketbooks should be with straps securely around a shoulder and tucked under an arm.

9. Don't call undue attention to yourself, targeted as a tourist by loud talk and flashing lots of cash. Dress comfortably and modestly, and always be alert to surroundings. Too often, frightened and lost-looking tourists attract thieves. Travel in unfamiliar areas with at least one other companion.

10. If you see unauthorized people within the hotel property and suspicious behavior, report it immediately to the hotel front desk, security or police.