Traveling by fast boat between Bali and nearby islands like the Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, or Lombok is an exciting adventure. However, the open nature of boats and the crowded conditions often leave travelers wondering how to keep their valuables safe. While these trips are usually smooth, it’s essential to take precautions to safeguard your belongings during your journey.
Here are some practical tips to ensure that your valuables remain secure while you enjoy your island-hopping adventure.
Choose a Secure Waterproof Bag
The first step to keeping your valuables safe is selecting the right bag. Ideally, you should carry a waterproof backpack or bag that can be secured with zippers and locks. Many travelers opt for anti-theft bags designed with hidden compartments and lockable zippers, which deter pickpockets or accidental opening during the trip.
A waterproof bag is essential because fast boats can get wet, either from splashes or from rain. Keeping your belongings dry and protected from water damage is just as important as protecting them from theft.
Keep Valuables in a Dry Bag
For extra protection, consider using a dry bag for your most important items, such as your phone, wallet, passport, and camera. Dry bags are sealed and waterproof, providing an extra layer of security in case your main bag gets wet during the boat ride.
You can find dry bags in various sizes, so choose one that fits comfortably inside your main backpack. These bags are also great for storing electronics, ensuring they remain safe even if the boat ride gets bumpy or wet.
Wear a Money Belt or Neck Wallet
For items you need immediate access to, like your passport or cash, a money belt or neck wallet is a discreet option. These can be worn under your clothes, making them less accessible to thieves. Many travelers use these to store essentials like passports, credit cards, and cash, reducing the chance of losing them or having them stolen.
While money belts may not be the most fashionable option, they provide peace of mind, especially in crowded situations like boarding or disembarking from a fast boat.
Use a Small Lock for Your Bag
While it’s uncommon for theft to happen on fast boats, securing your bag with a small lock adds an extra layer of security. It deters opportunistic thieves who might be tempted by an easy target. Many backpacks come with lockable zippers, allowing you to secure the main compartments.
Additionally, some travelers use a locking cable to secure their bags to the seats or railings on the boat, preventing anyone from walking off with their luggage during the ride or while disembarking.
Keep Important Items with You
While larger luggage may need to be stored in designated compartments or areas on the boat, keep your important items with you at all times. It’s common for fast boats to store bags at the front or back of the boat, but smaller bags like backpacks or personal items should be kept by your side or under your seat.
Make sure to have easy access to your valuables during the trip. Keeping them on your person ensures they won’t be out of sight or at risk of getting mixed up with other passengers’ belongings.
Avoid Flashing Expensive Items
When traveling in a tourist-heavy area, it’s wise to avoid displaying expensive gadgets or jewelry openly. Keeping your phone, camera, or smartwatch in your bag when not in use helps you avoid drawing unnecessary attention to your valuables. While fast boat trips are generally safe, flashing valuables can attract the wrong kind of attention.
If you need to use your phone or camera, try to do so quickly and then tuck it away in a secure location like your locked bag or a dry pouch.
Label Your Bags Clearly
With many travelers boarding and disembarking fast boats at the same time, bags can sometimes get misplaced or mixed up. Label your luggage clearly with your name, contact information, and destination. This ensures that if your bag gets lost or accidentally picked up by another traveler, it can be easily identified and returned.
Using a bright or unique luggage tag also helps your bag stand out from the crowd, reducing the risk of confusion when everyone is retrieving their belongings at the same time.
Be Cautious When Boarding and Disembarking
One of the most chaotic moments during a fast boat journey is during boarding and disembarking. The rush to get on or off the boat can lead to confusion, and this is when many travelers misplace their belongings. To avoid this, take your time when getting on and off the boat, ensuring that you have all your valuables with you before moving.
Hold on tightly to your bags, and double-check the area around your seat before leaving to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
Use Travel Insurance for Extra Peace of Mind
Travel insurance is a must for any international trip, and it provides an extra layer of security if your valuables are lost, stolen, or damaged during your journey. Many travel insurance plans cover lost or stolen luggage, electronics, and personal items, giving you peace of mind even if something goes wrong.
Before your trip, make sure to review your policy to understand what is covered and the steps to take if you need to make a claim.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
While fast boats are generally safe, it’s always good practice to be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the people around you and trust your instincts if something feels off. If you’re traveling in a group, designate someone to keep an eye on the bags while others take photos or relax during the journey.
Staying alert and mindful of your surroundings can prevent theft and ensure that you have a smooth, enjoyable trip.
