11 Travel Safety Tips for Americans Visiting India

5. Personal security & valuables

Use a crossbody anti-theft bag and keep it zipped and in front in crowds. Split cash and cards between a hidden pouch, hotel safe, securely and a daily wallet. Carry only essential ID while exploring and leave originals secured in your hotel safe. Use RFID-blocking sleeves for cards if you worry about skimming, and prefer contactless payments where possible when available. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering help with directions or bags; politely decline and seek help from staff. When using ATMs, choose machines inside banks or busy malls, and shield your PIN when entering it on keypad. Place a luggage lock on checked bags and use tamper-evident tags to spot if someone has opened your suitcase. With street vendors who offer unsolicited services, agree prices up front and keep belongings close while bargaining for safety. Consider registering a credit card travel alert with your bank and download transaction alerts to detect unauthorized use quickly. If you feel threatened, move to a public space, call local emergency services at 112, and contact the U.S. Embassy if necessary also. Keep a list of emergency contacts including family numbers, local doctor or clinic, your insurance hotline, and the U.S. Embassy phone number handy.