Fellow travellers.

Once i get an answer to this query, i think im gonna feel so silly asking but here goes.

When you are out there travelling in the big wide world, you arrive at a destination (hostel/whatever), you dump your stuff whereever you are sleeping/staying and then you decide to go out and explore.

What/how do you ensure your backpack is safe when you are out and about?
I know about taking a day pack with you and also the ins and outs of valuables,etc but what about your pack?

Cheers,

R

It really depends on the place and circumstances. Certain hostels, such as the HI New York, have lockers in each room (bring your own lock). Other places have a centralized storage area managed by a person. I try not to keep any valuables in my baggage, and anything that cannot be replaced by a little money stays with me in a daypack.

Another thing you can do is put little pad locks on all of the zips of your rucksack effectively removing the temptation of prying hands. Another thing I did was to bring a small bike cable lock. Then I chained my sack to the bed. It just makes it that bit harder for casual crims pick your pack rather than someone elses.

i keep anything of value in my day pack so it doesn't matter if anything is taken

When i was traveling in Europe i stayed in small pensions and the door locked. I just left my bag there. Airport or train station lockers work well too. they make a net here in the US you can find online in many places it used to be advertised on www.campmor.com its a net of wire cable that covers your pack. I had one for many years on trips to europe and africa. you can even leave it on when you are walking around with your pack. I definitly believe in locking it to the bed as an aforementioned reader reccommended. Remember take a small pack anyway. No need for a 70 pound pack. and always keep your passport and cash on your money belt or neck wallet. those are necessities if anything else is stolen. Try the neck wallet it feels a little more wierd to wear but much more secure. I have heard of many money belts being stolen in the last few years as pick pockets have gotten better. if your in town for a few days and only need clothes use the bus station, train station or airport lockers and take a few changes of clothes with you. and your rain jacket of course. Mail home anything you acquire that is valuable or very important to you. Or mail them to a certain point on your trip when you will be going home or a destination where you will be able to pack and ship them in quantity.

Keep your passport and credit cards safe and everything else is replaceable, even your airline ticket. Just make sure you have good insurance!