HAVING traveled throughout the world since I was a child, I learned how to travel alone, with friends, with family, with business associates, with people I liked and people I did not particularly care about. Sometimes I would be out on the road for weeks and sometimes my flight time would actually be longer than my ground time. I have always been aware of the perils of traveling and have been warned about carrying packages for other people. However, the recent phenomena of laglag-bala is something I never thought about or encountered probably because of how I travel.
Over the years I have developed the habit of carrying my own bags and packing everything myself. My routine would normally start with getting the right bag that would suit the purpose of the trip. Typically, I would open all of the compartments and pull everything out while checking for the function of the zippers, latches and Velcro. I would also check if there are any rips or weakness in the bag.
I will travel as light as possible. This is consistent with my philosophy of carrying my own bags. I would give priority to the purpose of the trip. For example, if it was a business trip, the documents, laptop, samples and a business suit would be top priority. Whenever possible, especially for short trips, I will try to see if I can get away without having to check in anything. This will make your exit from the airport much faster and make you look more professional when you don’t have to lug your suitcase with you into a meeting.
Make sure you have a spare copy of your e-ticket, passport, other ID’s and even your credit card. Many people do this by taking a photo of these travel documents in their cell phone and think they are smart…until they lose their phone. As a back-up measure, send an e-mail to yourself with all these attachments. Whenever possible, I would do the same to my powerpoint presentation and other important documents needed for the meeting.
Dress up properly when you travel. You can be comfortable in casual clothes without having to look like you live on the sidewalk. Do not look like you are lost or unsure of yourself. Even in the animal kingdom, the predator would normally prey on the weakest ones. Regroup and take your bearings by going to the information counter, taking a look at the signage, stepping into a café and relax. I guess this is also how people are selected to be victimized by criminals.
Choose clothes that have secure pockets that are either deep enough so the contents don’t spill out when you move around or sit down, or get those that have buttons or zippers that enclose the pocket making it more difficult to pick your wallet. Unless you are escorted all the time, blend into the crowd and avoid loud jewelry.
Traveling light is the key to everything. It allows you to be more mobile enabling you to take the public transport system which is really quite pleasant and efficient in other countries. It allows you to focus more on your surroundings and your trip rather than your baggage. It also allows you to buy more things during your travel just in case you find something interesting. This is how I travel and I love it!
(Comments may be sent to georgechuaph@yahoo.com)