Loosing cash, or your access to money via bank card, will put you in a very vulnerable situation. This is a big no-no when far away from your home country!
Set yourself up right – have backups and store money and cards securely. Make managing your cash and cards a habit. GemsOfTravel lays out how to do this, below, and it only takes a few minutes of your time.
Only Carry Just Enough
The more valuables you carry on you in person, the more painful it is to loose. Regardless if you are in Southeast Asia (safe) or a more violent country where theft/muggings are common, carrying only the money that you need is good practice.
The goal here is if you loose whatever money you have on you, then your reaction should be “it could be much worse”.
Regarding ATM/credit cards, obtaining a new card while in a foreign country is a headache that can be avoided. Dealing with fraudulent charges, too. If you loose your access to money, then you better hope you have an emergency money plan.
Cash and ATM/Credit Cards
Do this #1)
Carry only the cash money you need for the day or couple of days on you, plus a bit more as necessary. This is also good to force good financial budgeting discipline.
Do this #2)
No need to carry every credit card and debit card in your purse/wallet/fanny pack. Carry only the ATM card or credit card that you need – leave extras behind. If you do not need one, then leave them all behind.
Do this #3)
Store the rest of your cash/cards somewhere safe. Choices are (1) in a concealed waterproof wallet and/or (2) locked inside your baggage, which is locked & tethered to an anchor object. Use the hotel safe if available, setting your own passcode.
Tip
Secure your bags and belongings. Lock the zippers and tether the bags to an anchor object.
Great Idea!
Store money, credit cards, and ID using this waterproof and concealable wallet!
Also, store the printouts of your passport, ID, and medical insurance info inside.
It’s tethered to you – you won’t loose it. It’s concealable – people cannot reach in and steal. It’s waterproof – do not worry about rain, sweat, or swimming.