6 Common Mistakes Tourists Always Make, and How to Avoid Them, According to Travel Safety Experts

Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, August 3rd 2025 at 2:08 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Security experts Kevin Coffey and Lloyd Figgins share the six common travel safety mistakes you should avoid, and what you should do instead. Here, we've rounded up the best travel accessories and gear to help you stay safe on the go; top safety product picks range from Apple AirTags to a portable charger.

Essential Travel Safety Products and Expert Tips for Secure Journeys

Traveling can be one of life's greatest adventures, but it also comes with inherent risks, from petty theft in crowded tourist spots to unexpected emergencies in unfamiliar destinations. To help mitigate these concerns, security experts emphasize the importance of proactive preparation. Drawing from recommendations by professionals in personal security and travel safety, this guide explores a curated selection of affordable products available on Amazon that can enhance your safety on the road. These items, ranging from portable locks to hidden storage solutions, are designed to provide peace of mind without weighing down your luggage. Experts like Cathy Pedrayes, a security expert and author of "The Mom Friend Guide to Everyday Safety and Security," and Nicole Sivers, a personal safety specialist with City Girl Prep, share insights on why these tools are invaluable and how to use them effectively.

Starting with one of the most fundamental aspects of travel safety: securing your accommodations. Whether you're staying in a hotel, Airbnb, or hostel, the integrity of your door can make all the difference. A highly recommended item is the portable door lock, such as the Addalock Original Portable Door Lock. This compact device fits into most door frames and provides an extra layer of security by preventing the door from being opened from the outside, even if someone has a key. Pedrayes explains that standard hotel locks can sometimes be bypassed, especially in older buildings, and this tool acts as a simple yet effective reinforcement. Priced around $18, it's lightweight and easy to pack, making it ideal for solo travelers or families. Sivers adds that using it in conjunction with a doorstop alarm can create a multi-layered defense system. For instance, the Lewis N. Clark Travel Door Alarm combines a wedge-shaped stopper with a loud siren that activates if pressure is applied, alerting you to any intrusion attempts. This dual-purpose gadget is particularly useful in areas where hotel security might be lax, and at under $10, it's an accessible entry point for enhancing room safety.

Beyond door security, protecting your valuables while on the move is crucial. RFID-blocking wallets and sleeves are essential in an era where digital theft is on the rise. Products like the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag or slim RFID-blocking card holders prevent scammers from scanning your credit cards or passport through radio frequency identification. Experts note that crowded places like airports or markets are hotspots for such crimes, where thieves use handheld scanners to steal data without physical contact. Pedrayes recommends opting for bags with slash-proof straps and hidden compartments, like the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag, which features lockable zippers and eXomesh slashguard panels. This bag, available for about $80, not only deters pickpockets but also organizes your essentials securely. Sivers suggests pairing it with a money belt or neck wallet, such as the Zero Grid Hidden Neck Wallet, which conceals cash and documents under your clothing. Worn discreetly, it reduces the risk of snatch-and-grab thefts common in tourist-heavy areas like European cities or Asian markets.

For those venturing into outdoor or adventure travel, personal alarms and self-defense tools become indispensable. The She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm is a compact keychain device that emits a piercing 130-decibel siren when activated, drawing attention and potentially scaring off attackers. At around $30, it's a non-violent option that experts like Pedrayes endorse for its ease of use—simply pull the pin to activate. She advises practicing with it beforehand to build confidence. Similarly, pepper spray alternatives, such as the SABRE RED Pepper Gel, offer a legal self-defense option in many places (always check local laws). This gel formula minimizes blowback in windy conditions and has a range of up to 12 feet, making it suitable for hikers or urban explorers. Sivers highlights the importance of combining these with situational awareness training: "Don't just carry the tool; know when and how to use it."

Health and emergency preparedness are equally vital components of travel safety. A well-stocked first-aid kit, like the Surviveware Comprehensive First Aid Kit, contains bandages, antiseptics, and tools for minor injuries, all in a durable, waterproof case. Priced at about $40, it's compact enough for carry-on luggage and includes items like blister treatments for long walks. Experts recommend customizing it with personal medications and adding a portable water purifier, such as the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter, which removes 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and parasites. This is especially useful in regions with questionable water quality, preventing illnesses that could derail your trip. Pedrayes stresses the value of emergency communication devices, like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, which allows texting and SOS signals via satellite in areas without cell service. Though pricier at around $400, it's a lifesaver for remote adventures, enabling location sharing and weather updates.

Luggage security shouldn't be overlooked, as theft from bags is rampant in transit hubs. TSA-approved locks, such as the Forge TSA Luggage Locks, ensure your suitcase remains secure while allowing airport security to inspect if needed. These durable locks, starting at $15 for a set, feature a combination mechanism that's easy to reset. For added protection, consider a luggage tracker like the Apple AirTag or Tile Pro, which uses Bluetooth and GPS to locate lost bags. Sivers points out that placing one inside your suitcase and another in your carry-on can help recover items quickly, with apps notifying you if your bag is separated from you. Pair this with anti-theft backpacks, like the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, which has hidden pockets and water-resistant material to safeguard electronics.

When it comes to personal hygiene and health in the post-pandemic world, items like portable UV sanitizers gain prominence. The PhoneSoap 3 UV Smartphone Sanitizer uses ultraviolet light to kill 99.99% of germs on your phone, keys, or masks in minutes. At about $80, it's a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers touching high-contact surfaces. Experts also advocate for hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes, but elevating this with a multi-tool like the Gerber Dime Multi-Tool, which includes pliers, scissors, and a bottle opener, adds versatility for unexpected situations.

Incorporating technology further, portable chargers with built-in safety features, such as the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000, ensure your devices stay powered for emergency calls. This slim battery pack, around $20, has multiple USB ports and fast-charging capabilities. Sivers recommends apps that complement these products, like personal safety apps with location sharing or emergency alerts.

Experts unanimously agree that while these products are helpful, they're most effective when paired with smart habits. Pedrayes advises researching destinations for common scams, avoiding displaying wealth, and trusting your instincts. Sivers emphasizes blending in with locals and using ride-sharing apps with safety features. For families, child safety items like wrist leashes or GPS trackers for kids, such as the Jiobit Smart Tag, provide reassurance in busy environments.

Ultimately, investing in these travel safety products—from door locks and alarms to trackers and sanitizers—empowers you to focus on the joys of exploration rather than potential pitfalls. With prices starting as low as $8, they're accessible to all budgets. By heeding expert tips and preparing thoughtfully, travelers can navigate the world more securely, turning potential vulnerabilities into strengths. Whether you're a solo backpacker, a family on vacation, or a business traveler, these tools and strategies form a comprehensive safety net for your journeys. (Word count: 1,048)

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6 Common Mistakes Tourists Always Make, and How to Avoid Them, According to Travel Safety Experts

Essential Travel Safety Products and Expert Tips for Secure Journeys