Remember, though you may think yourself a modern day Indiana Jones, as far as the locals are concerned, you’re a walking, talking wad of cash and, unfortunately, “meeting the locals” can often mean “getting robbed”. That’s not to say that other countries are packed with thieves and con-artists, it’s just that your pasty white skin and florescent backpack will inevitably draw the wrong type of attention.

Yup, though many backpackers would love to think otherwise, you’re never going to shake the “rich tourist” label completely so it’s important to try and minimise the risk. As luck would have it, we have some handy hints and tips for the intrepid traveller that may just save you some serious money.

Get rid of the accessories
If you insist on dressing like 50 Cent you will spend most of your time abroad sitting in police stations filling out theft forms. Seriously, the purpose of travelling is to experience new cultures, not to flaunt your wealth. In a country where the average wage is $3 a day, why are you so surprised that someone swiped your Rolex? Quite simply, leave your valuable jewellery at home or, if you cannot bear to part with it, leave it in the hotel / hostel safe.

Dress modestly
Much like expensive jewellery, snappy suits and designer brands (fake or real) are going to get you into trouble. Most fashionable clothing is woefully inadequate for travelling anyway so, unless you’re going to a club or posh restaurant, dress down.

Put the guidebook away
Yes, I know you’re lost, but so does that dodgy tuk tuk driver thanks to the pristine Lonely Planet in your hand. Remember, tourists make easy prey, but lost tourists are as good as dead. No matter how lost you are, venture into the safety of a shop or café before consulting the guidebook. Furthermore, when wondering new towns and cities, walk with confidence and don’t look gormless.

Don’t be afraid to get your backpack dirty
Your backpack says a lot about you and a brand new spotless one stinks of a new arrival. Arriving in a new country can be confusing at best, and the last thing you want is to broadcast your hopeless situation to potential criminals. If possible, try and make your pack a little grubby. You need to create the illusion that you are a seasoned backpacking pro, even if you have previously never left your mothers side.

Take flight tags off your luggage
No, they’re not badges of honour - they’re homing beacons for conmen and thieves! You never want to look like a new arrival and flight tags will blow your cover, big time.

Don’t be afraid to count your cash after exchanging money
Unfortunately, you can’t always trust money changers and it is essential that you always check that you have been given the correct amount of cash. If the other person is going too fast or making the transaction confusing, chances are he or she is trying to rip you off. If they object to you counting the money then something is seriously wrong. That said…

… Don’t wave cash around
Yes, though you feel like a millionaire because you’ve just discovered £1 is worth 30,000 of the local currency, resist the urge to wave the green stuff around.

Be careful with flashy cameras and electrical goods
Travelling is changing and most backpackers today carry the equivalent of an electronics store on their back. Digital cameras, iPods, portable hard-drives and laptops are all part of a modern traveller’’s arsenal and you would be surprised at how fast they can wonder off. Laptops and hard-drives should really stay in your hotel’s safe (generally ok) and cameras should be used with caution. Remaining aware of your surroundings is really all you can do.

Haggle in shops
Many countries still rely on bartering, especially so in Asia. Prices are rarely fixed and you can be pretty confident that the price you are initially offered will be way over the odds. Gauging a fair price can be difficult and it is important that you watch the locals and try and see how much they are paying. It is not unusual to be given offers ten times higher than the ‘real’ price. When haggling, always remain calm and friendly. Remember, it’s not a war, it’s shopping.

Be smart about local transport
It’s highly unlikely that you’re going to get kidnapped, but taxi and tuk tuk drivers have a tendency to overcharge us hapless travellers. Always negotiate a price before you set off or, if using a metered taxi, make sure the meter is actually a) on, and b) working correctly. It pays to have a map open on your lap (even if you don’t have a clue where you are) as the driver will be less inclined to take you the “long route”. Always be cautious of free or extremely cheap transport offers – most will result in you being taken to shops where the driver is paid commission. These shops can often go for the hard sale, and even the most seasoned travellers have been known to purchase over-priced tat just to escape.

Research the country and talk to other travellers
Scams and crime levels vary from country to country and it is essential that you do at least some research to familiarise yourself with the key dangers. When it comes to rip-off merchants, your best speaking to other travellers in the area as scams tend to evolve over time. Generally speaking, if an offer seems too good to be true, treat it with extreme caution.

Most of this is, of course, common sense. However, when you are in a foreign country it is easy to get lulled into a false sense of security and, as many have discovered the hard way, let your guard down. Remember, travelling is not very dangerous provided that you act sensibly and keep your wits about you – just as you would in your own country. Though it’s difficult, try not to become too sceptical towards gestures of kindness as there are plenty of genuinely nice people in the world. Equally, if you do get scammed or robbed, learn from the encounter and don’t let it spoil your trip.

Have fun.

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Tags: article, travel tips