Traveling Solo To The Beach? Here's How To Keep Your Belongings From Being Stolen
Traveling alone can be ideal for introverts and independent types. However, solitary travel requires some extra precautions. There are several things you should avoid doing when traveling solo, including leaving your belongings unattended. This might be a no-brainer when hanging out at a café or tourist attraction, but it can be harder to get around when heading to the beach.
Thankfully, TikToker @alinatrvl has a simple solution for fellow solo travelers. In a clip, the content creator suggests beachgoers use a waterproof fanny pack to store essential items, such as their phones and wallets. "Waterproof bag is something that tiktok makes you wanna buy and you will not regret it," she wrote in the caption, explaining that it's a convenient alternative to asking strangers to babysit your stuff while you swim.
@alinatrvl Waterproof bag is something that tiktok makes you wanna buy and you will not regret it🫱🏻🫲🏼 Even though I sometimes ask people around me to watch my stuff, I don't feel that good with that cause yes they are strangers aswell and also I feel like I can't be swimming for too long then😂 get the bag! #waterproofbag #waterprooffannypack #solotravel #femalesolotravel #femalesolotravel #solotraveltips
The video, which shows @alinatrvl in the water while wearing the bag, has racked up over 61,000 "likes" to date, and many commenters were intrigued by the accessory. "How did I not know about this," wrote one. Another added, "If I had this earlier maybe my phone wouldn't have drowned."
Does the bag really work?
Submerging a bag of your valuables under water might seem risky — a point that many TikTok users mentioned in the comments of @alinatrvl's video. However, the content creator insisted the bag "100%" works and keeps her items dry (and safe from thieves, of course). The bag featured in the clip is the Waterproof Pouch Bag produced by brand iVoler, and it comes with a waterproof phone case to help protect devices during travel selfies. Even without the phone case, the pouch itself offers a three-layer seal to keep water out.
Though the product is listed as being waterproof, the manufacturer suggests performing a test before using it in the ocean. iVoler warns that if water seeps into the bag during a 30-minute test (using a small towel or piece of paper), you should contact the company and avoid using the bag. With this in mind, there's no guarantee that the item is fully waterproof.
Still, the iVoler fanny pack and similar pouches are an easy way to outsmart thieves at the beach and keep your belongings within reach at all times. To try the accessory out with minimal worry, consider using some extra protection for your most precious valuables. For instance, your phone and cash can be placed in a sealable plastic bag (or two, if you're doubtful) before being tucked inside the waterproof pouch.
Other ways to keep your items safe at the beach
Besides sporting a waterproof bag, there are plenty of tips for keeping your valuables safe at the beach. Sometimes, the best option is keeping your items on land, albeit with protection. For example, a beach safe — a lockable device that can be attached to a heavy chair or pole — is one way to make sure your valuables stay dry without tempting snatchers. Theft-resistant bags, such as the Loctote theft-resistant bags from "Shark Tank," can also be locked in place and are made of a slash-proof material.
Hiding your belongings may also work, though it's not a sound solution if other beachgoers are around to watch you. Still, if you're sly, you may be able to bury your things in the sand or conceal them in a plastic bag or even a diaper. Just be sure to remember where you hid the items when you return from the water.
Finally, asking for help can work to your advantage. If you're like @alinatrvl and don't want to ask strangers to watch your valuables, try finding a lifeguard instead. If they're unable to hold your belongings, you can at least keep your things near their tower to discourage thieves from stealing them. Alternatively, ask a nearby restaurant or surf shop if they're willing to hold onto your items while you're swimming. You can offer to order a meal or rent a board in exchange for their assistance.