Leave your valuables at home

When in doubt, leave it out: It’s a great rule for vacationers, especially when it comes to your valuables. While designer accessories and gear may seem like an ideal way to splurge for your vacation, in many cases it makes you a target for pickpockets and petty criminals. And the hassle of getting compensated for your loss often isn’t worth it, especially in such a preventable situation.

Additionally, if the airline loses your luggage, there’s very little recompense. For lost baggage, most airlines are responsible for up to $3,000 per passenger, which may not cover the value of all your items. On international trips, that number drops to about $650, depending on regulations. Worse yet, what you can recover is based on the depreciated value of the luggage and its contents, not the cost of replacing your things.

Or, if your hotel room gets robbed, usually only objects in the safe are covered. Since hotel safes typically have a per-day charge, you’ll be paying on that front to ensure your valuables are secure.

Bottom line: Don’t expect your airline or hotel to take care of you. If you must bring high-value items, purchase insurance. Wear inexpensive costume jewelry and leave the real gems at home. If you purchase pricey souvenirs, ship them directly home.

It’s just like that old credit card slogan, but with a twist: Definitely leave home without it.

Have a great travel tip you’d like to share? Send your insider travel strategies to [email protected].