• Take a money belt with you, even if you carry a handbag. It is so easy to fall victim to a handbag thief.
  
• A credit card allows you to delay payment and is sometimes the only form of payment accepted. It is also gives you a better exchange rate, as with using a debit card.
  
• Make sure you have a 4-digit pin number for all cards, as some countries will not accept pins of less.
  
• Debit cards allow cash advances from ATM's and offer better exchange rates than most bureau de change. Only use credit cards in this way in emergencies, as bank charges and interest will wipe out any savings gained from this method.
  
• Ensure you inform your credit card company of your travels before you leave. They may stop your card due to "unusual use" if you don't.
  
• Have your banks emergency numbers for stolen cards.
  
• Banks will give you the best exchange rate when changing money.
  
• Traveller's cheques are only useful in cities and big towns
  
• Buy smaller denominations so you will not be left with excess money at the end of your trip.
  
• To make replacement easy if stolen record the numbers of all your checks, and keep this listing in a separate place, crossing off the numbers of checks you have cashed.
  
• Buy the cheques yourself as if they are stolen the person who purchased them needs to phone for replacement.
  
• Carry a false wallet to deter assailants.
  
• Never lend, borrow or run out of money
  

Want to know more?

Planet Wise travel safety training courses are packed with lots more helpful advice and tips to make sure your trip is a safe and enjoyable one. Plus you'll get to share ideas with fellow travellers and pick the brains of the Planet Wise team of experienced travel experts.