The Common Item Rick Steves Says Many Of His Friends Have Had Stolen While Traveling

Pickpocketing is a reality of travel. It's easy to forget what you're carrying around with you when you're looking in awe at something you've only seen in pictures. You're gazing at an old church's flying buttresses when suddenly, you realize something is missing. It's a tale as old as travel, but luckily, expert Rick Steves has been giving simple and useful tips to avoid pickpocketing for years now. He's taught us to stay wary on public transportation, which is where theft often happens; reminded us to carry our cash, cards, and travel documents in a money belt under our clothing; and urged us to avoid distractions where crowds gather. However, one item you might not be thinking about is your camera.

Steves writes on his website, "If you're not constantly on guard, you'll have something stolen. One summer, four out of five of my traveling companions lost cameras in one way or another." While many of us use our phones to take pictures, as their photo and video quality has continued to get better and better, there is something about a traditional camera that many people just adore. You may not think about your camera being a target since it's usually on a strap around your neck. But if you put it down, you take it off your neck to get a specific shot, or a strap is loose, it might end up in someone else's hands. However, there are a few ways to help keep your camera safe so you can enjoy your trip (and those post-vacation photos).

If you're bringing your expensive camera on vacation, consider personal possessions insurance. Check what your travel insurance covers, and consider adding more coverage if your camera is really valuable. Also note if you have to file a police report for your claim.

When using your gear, loop the strap around your wrist every time you take it off your neck so it can't be snatched. Check that the straps and connections are secure, and get in the habit of never putting it down for any reason — it's easier to forget to take it with you than it is for someone to take it from you. You may also consider using a disposable camera to take pictures without spending a ton of money. However, if you do this, remember that there is a risk in taking your disposable camera through TSA because of the film. Ask to get it manually inspected instead of putting it through the machine.

Rick Steves has another great piece of advice for travelers, and it has to do with your reaction if you do end up the victim of pickpocketing. It's easy to get upset and let your anger and frustration take the joy out of the rest of your trip. However, he explains that "it's best to get over it quickly. You're rich and thieves aren't. You let your guard down and they grabbed your camera. It ruins your day and you have to buy a new one, while they sell it for a week's wages on their scale. It's wise to keep a material loss in perspective." No matter what gets taken, remember that things are replaceable. You're in a new place, making memories that will last the rest of your life, which is more important than any camera.