Lessons Learned from Being Mugged Abroad l ThePlanetD Travel Blog

Last month I marked the anniversary of an event that had a profound impact on my life, transforming me into a more knowledgeable, self-reliant, and mindful traveler.

It happened in Valparaiso, a city around 2 hours from Santiago de Chile, where I was mugged by three individuals on a sunny afternoon.

After sharing my story with others, I was met with blank stares and criticism for my perceived carelessness that made me an easy target.

They were partly right. I hadn’t researched the area before visiting and was walking around with all my belongings, including my expensive DSLR camera, in plain sight. While the experience was frightening, it prompted me to reflect on my travel habits.

What to do When Mugged Abroad

Throughout my 10+ years of traveling, I’ve had my fair share of close calls but managed to escape relatively unharmed. These experiences fueled a sense of confidence that led me to believe I was more experienced than others.

However, as my ego grew, I became complacent and engaged in riskier behavior, increasing my chances of getting into trouble.

Before embarking on any journey, travelers must set aside their egos and acknowledge that there is always more to learn. With over 150 countries in the world, no one can claim to be a travel expert.

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Understand the potential dangers of travel and strive to become a well-informed traveler by preparing adequately and taking precautions to recognize warning signs and respond appropriately while abroad.

Tips to Stay Safe When Traveling

My experiences in Chile, where I was robbed twice, and the stories I’ve heard from fellow travelers have taught me valuable lessons. While some tips may seem obvious, they bear repeating:

1. Research the area/city/country before arriving at the destination. 

My mistake in Valparaiso was not researching the city’s safety warnings beforehand. Had I done so, I would have known to avoid climbing the hills where I was eventually mugged. Websites like WikiTravel provide valuable information on local customs, safety tips, and more.

2. Pack Smart! 

Avoid bringing flashy jewelry and expensive clothing that may attract unwanted attention. Opt for a cross-body bag with a zipper instead of a clutch, which is easy to steal. These precautions can help deter thieves.

3. Don’t rush out of the airport. 

Avoid hasty decisions like taking the first available airport taxi, which may be operated by unauthorized drivers. Take time to assess the situation, inquire about fair taxi prices, and explore alternative transportation options that could save you time and money.

For example, in Chile, you can opt for a bus or shared van for cost-effective transfers to your accommodation.

4. Once checked into your room, lock up all your OWN stuff. 

Avoid relying on hostel or hotel lockers and safes, as they may not be secure. Use personal locks and keep valuables out of sight. Secure your belongings in luggage and consider using a retractable cable lock to prevent theft.

5. Blend in.

Minimize your risk of being targeted by blending in with the local crowd. Avoid drawing attention to yourself as a tourist by appearing confident and inconspicuous. Dress modestly, avoid flashy gestures, and limit the use of foreign languages in public.

6. If getting robbed, DO NOT fight back. 

In the event of a robbery, prioritize your safety over material possessions. Resisting an attacker can escalate the situation and lead to serious harm. Remember that belongings can be replaced, but your well-being cannot.

Traveling has been an enriching experience, and I have no regrets despite the challenges. These guidelines are not meant to deter you from exploring the world but to empower you to make informed decisions and stay vigilant. Enjoy your travels responsibly!

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