It’s no secret our family has been struck by the travel bug. It brings so much joy and richness to our life.
One of the downsides of travel, though, is having to be extra careful with things while on the road. When something gets stolen, it can ruin a perfectly fabulous holiday.
“What’s in your wallet?” This is a catchy jingle on one of the credit card commercials that runs here in the US.
In the past, keeping your belongings in your wallet while traveling was essential. Today, thieves don’t even need to get into your wallet or your handbag to walk off with your money. I found this out the hard way.
Recently, I received the dreaded phone call from my credit card company. My info had been stolen. How exactly could that be when my card was still in my wallet in my handbag? I was miffed. Welcome to the next generation of identity theft. As you know, micro ID chips are embedded into our credit cards and passports. The modern-day thief can easily walk near you and scan this information while you remain clueless. It’s incredible.
The great news is, counter technology has kept pace and it’s easy to protect yourself with something called RFID (or Radio Frequency Identify). RFID uses electromagnetic fields to identify and track tags attached to objects. You know the deal. Retailers use them to prevent shoplifters. In fact, an entire industry has blossomed out of this phenomenon. The RFID blocking industry is helping protect us whether you’re traveling abroad, or in your home town, for that matter. I’ve recently bought myself a new FAV – it’s a RFID backpack that even has locking clips for your zippers. It’s like having Fort Knox on your back. It’s a lightweight water-resistant back pack that has a colorful inside which makes it easy to find those small things that fall to the bottom.
You can purchase RFID blocking wallets, fanny packs, neck pouches and handbags. Travel On makes my “signature slim backpack”. Check it out. It’s a great way to keep secret the information that’s in your walled. Safe Travels!