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-   -   what to carry in BKK? (https://www.fodors.com/community/asia/what-to-carry-in-bkk-398986/)

PegS Jul 28th, 2008 12:14 PM

I never take my passport either. I figure if someone snatches my tote the last thing I want to lose is my passport. I keep my passport and some other things (such as my travel itinerary) in the hotel safe. Personally, I think the odds of it getting stolen there are slim, in part because the average thief would be looking for jewelry, money, credit cards and not something like a passport that they can't use.

SirHalberd Jul 28th, 2008 08:22 PM

In Thailand I leave my valuables in the hotel security box and hide that key. Stuff that gets stolen from hotel rooms are just as likely to be stolen by fellow tourists not only the hotel staff.

You can save flight schedules and itineraries in email form and save those emails into memory for when you need them later. You can also save travelers check serial numbers and other need to remember information in email form too. Lots of internet shops all over Thailand - prices are pretty cheap!

I keep copies of my passport with me but leave the passport in the hotel security box. I would rather have a problem with Thai police and be able to get my passport from the hotel later than have it stolen from me walking around. In over 13 years in and out of Thailand and the Philippines, and other countries, I have never had a policeman ask for my passport when I was out. You do need a passport with you to cash a travelers check though.

Most of the Pacsafe type bags I have seen were heavy and used by backpackers who stay in cheap places without any security storage. Those travelers locked it in the room to something substantial.

Handwipe/wetwipes are a good idea, if you are on a long tour some TP may come in handy. TP is not always found in toilets.

Carry a small Thai-English dictionary with you. You can pick them up in Thailand pretty cheap. If you have a problem getting your point across with a street vendor or someone, you can always look up the word you want and point it out.

Have small bills available, even a 500 baht note may be too large for some taxi drivers or street vendors to cash. I like to keep the "small" money available in one pocket separate from the big bills. Flashing big money around brings the wrong attention to you.

Good luck.

BillT Jul 29th, 2008 05:01 AM

Take along a security wallet that you wear under your shirt- this can keep your credit card, money and if you so desire your passport- totally safe and protected from pickpockets. I do this and never have a problem, although I keep my passport in the hotel room safe.

Kathie Jul 29th, 2008 06:39 AM

Hmmm... the only PacSafe bags I'm familiar with are the ones the size, shape and appearance of a small wonen's purse. Obviously, there must be a full range of types and sizes, even backpack size. Let me clarify that the only one I'd carry in Bangkok would be a small, purse-sized bag.


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