Will be traveling to Maui this summer for the first time and have a few questions...

First, the Maui Revealed guidebook said that when parking yr car down by a beach or trail you should leave it unlocked so when someone wants to break in they don't have to break the windows. Has this been a problem for anyone? I mean, for the book to mention it, I wonder if there's bands of roving thieves targeting what are obviously rental cars for the latest in fanny pack fashions, cheap snorkeling equipment, and Hilo Hattie muu-muus.

Second, I think it was the same book that mentioned obviously not leaving yr important stuff on the beach while yr in the water and instead using a waterproof fanny pack for the essentials. First of all, yes, I read the fanny pack thread, and yes, they suck. But what to do with yr keys and wallet in the water? Has anyone used a waterproof one, and any suggestions for a good one/where to purchase OR any other ideas to keep yr stuff safe?

Kristin

I have no info about your first question, but after a number of trips which included swimming/rafting/etc., I bought a little waterproof case. Can't find a link to that, but this looks even better:

http://www.rei.com/online/store/Prod...8000&langId=-1

turn_it_on,

There's been enough instances mentioned on this forum to warrant taking precautions but not to the point of paranoia. Just don't leave anything of value in the car, even in the trunk (especially in the Ioa parking lot).

As to a waterproof fanny pack, I've only seen one manufacturer make them and have never seen one in use. Instead, I bought one of those small waterproof containers that's strung to your neck from an ABC store (impossible not to find) the first time I visited Hawaii. You can fit all your money, credit cards, ID, and keys into one. It's convenient, hardly bothersome and especially nice to have when you're snorkeling. In any case, you could always ask someone next to you on the beach to keep an eye out...most people are on vacation and wouldn't want to see someone else's vacation spoiled.

Have a great time!

When we were in Maui we didn't think much about it, but then we park on the street in NYC and we never leave anything the car that is visible. But then again, we rented a Neon - so I'm sure the thieves thought, "Cheap SOBs, don't bother". On the Big Island, we rented snorkeling equipment and had to leave my driver's license, so I asked nicely if I could leave the car keys and my wallet in the little bin. It was great, we just left all our other stuff, sneakers, clothes etc. on the towels and no one bothered it.

elberko that bag looks great, I have been looking for something like that

Yeah, myname, I think I'm going to have to "lose" the little hard case I have. This one is pretty nifty.

Just back from a few weeks in Maui. I was suprised to read in the Maui News last week of a beating and attempted theft of car in Lahaina. Supposedly, a guy came to his car that he had left unlocked in a parking lot. (which one I don't remember)Two guys were sitting in the front trying to hotwire the car. The driver/owner asked what they were doing and they proceeded to beat and rob him. Maui sure isn't what it was 10 years ago! I also saw the little waterproof containers at ABC. I think the problem with them is that saltwater can damage rubbers, plastics and glues so they might not leak the first time you use them, but progressivly deteriorate.

We usually bring around 3,000.00 cash on vacation. (large family) So this is what we do. We take out what is needed for the day usually 100.00 a piece. Then rest we spilt up and put in our shoes, with socks. Another trick for the beach is to put valuables in a zip lock bag, put it in your cooler, mixed in with the bread, or lunchmeat.
My grandmother always pinned her money in a handkerchief to her bra,, just thought I would share that idea. lol
By the way i would lock the doors, because the rental company can blame you for neglagence if you don't. You are responsible for taking all precausions in protecting that vehicle under your contract.

Regarding the Lahaina robbery, they got them, see:

http://www.maui.net/~mauinews/framnews.htm
and go to 4/8/2003 on the left.

I've never ad any trouble with break-ins etc, I just use same thinking as I would at home when parking etc.

Surely, gypsygirls, you don't really carry that amount in cash ? Why not travellers' cheques ? Why not bring in a few hundred or so then use an ATM ?

Oh, my...The media has managed to scare again. Just like you wouldn't leave valuables sitting in plain sight in your car when you're at your own community shopping mall, don't do it on vacation. Leave your sentimental and expensive jewelry at home so you won't have to worry about it when traveling. And especially in HI (it is the good ol' USA, after all!), why not use a credit/debit card and carry an ATM card if you need extra cash? Bringing a large amount of cash ($3000?!?) is trouble anywhere you are, even near home. Did you ever think the guidebook was being a bit facetious? really...the latest in fanny pack fashions and muumuus??? Go into the souvenir or snorkel shops for the waterproof caddy on a cord that you can bring swimming.
Uh, good luck...

Travelin,

The "fanny pack fashions and muumuus" thing was my own creation--no, I don't think the book (Maui Revealed) was being facetious, they mention it in a couple of places...and yes, you should always use common sense, at home or away. I just wondered if there were roving Hawaiian thieves taking advantage of possibly naive tourists by targeting what are obviously rental cars in secluded areas, that's all. I'm not like super paranoid or retarded or anything; more than the break-ins, I was really interested in what people do with their stuff, and I got some good answers here.

And, uh, thanks...

Sooo glad this question was asked. I had been wondering what to do w/ stuff while I"m in the water. I went today to my local REI store, and ordered one of the fanny packs. I wanted to order it from the store, so that I can see it and return it if necessary when it comes in... although I dont think I will have to.

I just worry that it will really really truly truly double promise me water tight as I plan to store my regular camera in there while I snorkel.

But when it comes in I"ll take it to the rest room, and test it....then if it doesnt' work I can return in on the spot. ANYWAY...thanks for starting this thread..it came in very handy for me!!!

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