Pickpockets – These stealthy operators can easily pick the pocket of the most careful visitor, especially in highly populated area and markets. Closely related to the pickpockets are the razor artists who quietly slash open a bag and silently empty the content, giving no sign of their intentions. It is vital that you don’t leave your baggage unattended and take precautions when visiting highly populated areas. Devices such as safety belts and thin chain covering for bags may prove useful; but it equally important not to suspect the Thai people too much. It is a tiny minority who would aim to steal or harm anyone, let alone a visitor to their country.

Credit Cards – Credit cards are extremely useful in Thailand, as many goods and services can be obtained through their use without a visitor having to carry around too much cash. But they also pose their own risk; be it from hidden expenses to the complete decimation of the card by unscrupulous but clever ploys and criminals.

Some simple advice for visitors is to never let anyone see you placing the pin number of your card into ATM machines and make sure all receipts are safe and sound in your possession. Again, internet banking using your card can also be dangerous, due to the modern scams that can simply obtain your details and empty your account before you even know anything has gone amiss.

Luckily, many large credit card companies know all about these scams and are usually willing to return any money that has been stolen from your account. You should always keep your card with you and in a safe place. This advice is also useful for ID’s and Passports. Possibly the best thing to do with these is place them in a safe or safety-deposit box that are provided by many hotels ad guest-houses. These are by no means 100% safe, but are nonetheless a useful aid.

It is highly advisable for any visitors to make photocopies of all relevant documentation including passport, visa, insurance details, card details and emergency contact numbers. Try and keep these separate from the originals as well.