South America has a rich and vibrant culture that attracts travelers from all over the world. But like many popular tourist centers, it is not immune to the challenges of crime. I witnessed this during a recent visit to Lima, Peru. As our group of 20 stopped to take photos, a local on a motorcycle drove by and, in one motion, snatched the iPhone from the lady next to me. It happened in a flash and the thief was gone before he even had a chance to react.

The experience definitely shook me and was a much-needed wake-up call, reminding me how quickly things can happen when you’re distracted and navigating new environments, even when you’re in a group. While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, being prepared and proactive can make all the difference. Below you will find 11 of my favorites safety devices And anti-theft essentials.

Guanzhi Apple AirTag Adhesive Holder for Phone Case

Traveling with Apple AirTags is an easy way to have peace of mind about where your belongings are located. I put AirTags in everything when I travel, from my checked and carry-on bags to my laptop sleeves. With this gadget, you can securely stick an Apple AirTag to your phone so you can track its location after it’s stolen; although it’s not foolproof, it’s good to have it as a backup. Make sure a travel partner or loved one at home has access to the AirTag in their Find My network, so they can help you find your missing phone. The ability to track my items, especially when I’m not nearby, helps reduce stress while abroad.

Fabletics The Belt Bag

No matter where I travel, I always take this fanny pack. As a dual passport holder, it’s crucial to keep multiple documents and IDs safe and close (not to mention keep my phone out of sight), which is why I always turn to this bag Fabletics. I prefer to wear it as a shoulder bag and use the hidden zippered back pocket to store my most important items. This way I know my belongings are more secure and I can focus on my surroundings. The material is water-resistant and the strap is adjustable, so you can wear the bag over your shoulder or around your waist, and the main compartment is ideal for things like chargers and snacks.

Cacoe – Pack of 2 phone neck lanyards

This is an item I didn’t bring to South America but wish I had. Between my phone, camera, and other documents, I was constantly turning and rummaging for items in and out of my bag — a thief’s dream. After this pickpocketing event, I noticed that other people in the group had their phones connected to a cord like Cacoe’s. A buyer shared: “I used these on a crowded European vacation to keep (my) expensive iPhone safe. …These lanyards reassured me that I’m a tougher target.

Yoyi Yoyi Undercover Wrap Bra

Sometimes the best place to keep your valuables is out of sight. A hidden bra wallet provides a discreet and secure way to carry cash and credit cards. Plus, if your phone is stolen and you rely on Apple Pay, it’s a surefire way to make sure you always have emergency cash on you. It is also convenient for carrying small valuable items. I put some sentimental jewelry from my grandmother in this bra wallet and flew comfortably with them on an 18-hour flight from Australia. It was a simple, discreet way to carry items and offered much comfort.

The remaining items on this list aren’t necessarily related to phone security or my experience as a pickpocket in South America, but they are nonetheless important anti-theft and security features that I never travel without. I’ve used a few while traveling, and each provides greater peace of mind.

Ouligay Zipper Clips, 12 Pieces

An anti-theft zipper may seem like overkill, until it’s not: It can be easy for someone to discreetly open a bag or backpack without you knowing. A zipper clip adds that extra level of security and comfort knowing that no one can casually open your bag and slip out your money or phone. This 12-pack has a very durable double carabiner design, so they’re also useful for attaching items like keys, water bottles, and umbrellas to your purse or bag.

Jonyee fancy wallet

Before leaving for South America, I discovered the idea of ​​a “distraction wallet”. The concept is simple: in the terrible event of an assault where you are asked to hand over your wallet, you leave out that cheap wallet, which contains expired credit cards, a small amount of cash and other items non-essential, as well as a decoy. The lure may be enough to satisfy the thief and buy you valuable time to escape to safety. When traveling in busy areas where petty crime is more common, keep the decoy at the top of your bag while your wallet, phone and other important belongings are stowed at the bottom.

Charmast Small portable charger

There are few things more dangerous and inconvenient than letting your phone go off, especially when traveling alone in unfamiliar places. I used the Charmast portable charger during my trip to South America and loved its small but powerful design. I usually carry a small shoulder bag with me when exploring a city, and I really liked that this little charger didn’t add bulk or require additional cords. I turned to this charger several times during my trip and loved how it connected directly to my lifeline (i.e. my phone), quickly charging it on the go .

Munio Self Defense Keychain

Created by a self-defense expert, this discreet and stylish keychain is not just an accessory for your bag, it is a practical tool that provides a greater sense of security when exploring unfamiliar areas, especially in solo. The compact keyring fits in the hand and has a non-threatening appearance (the designs feature flowers and butterflies). Plus, you can take it on a plane without a doubt. “I travel a lot, and this has been a very convenient alternative to my other self-defense items because it doesn’t cause panic and I don’t have to think about removing it from my keychain before going reach TSA,” noted. a traveler.

She’s Birdie The Original Personal Security Alarm

You can be very careful and do everything right, but there may come a time when you still encounter problems during your trip. The She’s Birdie Personal Security Alarm can provide extra peace of mind in an instant. Although the device is small enough to slip into your pocket or clip onto your bag, once activated it emits a bright strobe light and sounds an audible alarm at 130 decibels, the same decibel level as an airplane at takeoff. The alarm is TSA approved, making it easy to carry and can be used multiple times.

Nightcap The Original Drink Cover Scrunchie

Traveling means experiencing new places and social scenes, but balancing that with safety can be a challenge. I once had my drink spiked; Luckily, I had friends with me and my mom was just a phone call away. We don’t necessarily have this kind of immediate support when we travel, which is why I always pack my Nightcap beverage cover when I’m abroad. Doubles as a favorite, this ingenious tool is discreet and helps prevent unwanted beverage tampering. The cover rolls up discreetly to look like a scrunchie but can easily be removed and placed over a drink when needed. You can never be too safe, so having this extra level of protection will allow you to enjoy the local nightlife without constant worry.

ReSQME Emergency Keychain Car Escape Tool

Whether you’re at home or abroad, taking a taxi or rideshare is sometimes unavoidable and requires a lot of trust in an unfamiliar driver. I will never forget the uneasy feeling I felt in a taxi in Greece. I wanted to get out of the car, but I couldn’t. This is where ReSQME comes in handy. Equipped with a seat belt cutter and window breaking tool, it can save your life when you need to quickly exit a vehicle. A Travel + Leisure travel writer I won’t get in a car without one. Although the device is compact, the blade is not TSA approved, so it’s best to keep it in your checked luggage to avoid potential confiscation.

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