You were three days into a two-week European vacation and your passport was pickpocketed. Or you had a grand time drinking at the local pub but got mugged on the way home. Or arguably even worse, the three-carat diamond ring you inherited from your grandmother disappeared from the bedside table in your hotel while you were out. If you’ve ever experienced any of these things on vacation, no need to read further – you’re already an expert at helping thieves find you! Wait… who wants to be an easy mark for theft? I dare say no one, so here’s a list of nine things NOT to do when traveling to keep your money, belongings and yourself safe.

Be a Flasher – No, not in the creepy, X-rated way, although that’s likely to get you in another sort of trouble. Flashing wads of cash or expensive jewelry are just asking to be relieved of it. Keep your money tucked away, preferably divided and in separate places. Unless you have an audience with the Queen, leave your tiaras and priceless jewels at home.

Be Careless in Crowds – Large gatherings of people – from busy metro stations to ticket lines for attractions – are fertile ground for pickpocket theft. To protect your property, carry wallets in front pants pockets, use cross-body bags, and carry backpacks in the front. Keep zippers zipped and hands on any straps. For personal safety, stay away from any demonstrations or marches.

Look Lost – Stopping in the middle of the sidewalk to study a large fold-out map is a sure sign that you’re not at home and makes you a mark. Instead, walk with purpose and confidence and own that sidewalk. If you need directions, step into a coffee shop to consult your map or download offline city maps on your phone.

Develop Cell Phone Oblivion – It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of seeing a new place, but stay alerted to what is going on around you. Don’t get so engrossed in taking or reviewing photos, texting or any other mobile phone function that you forget there are people around you.

Dress to Stand Out – Wearing short shorts and a logoed t-shirt will instantly mark you as an outsider in many countries besides the U.S. White socks with sandals, fanny packs, and cameras hanging around your neck scream tourist and can make you a target for theft. Try to blend in with the local residents and err on the conservative side. Cover arms, legs and head (women) in many Muslim countries or at religious sites.

Catch a Ride – Trusting just anyone who offers you a lift is a good way to get taken for a ride – and not the kind you want. Nefarious drivers might overcharge, take you to a desolate place and rob you or worse. Know in advance if your destination offers licensed taxis and use one if they do. Look for a badge or license, verify that the driver understands where you’re going, and confirm the price before you get in.

Sacrifice Safety for Price – It might be tempting to book the less expensive hotel in an off-the-beaten-path residential area, but you may feel isolated or have a dicey walk to get to city center. Pay the extra for a quality, centrally located hotel. In addition to increased safety, you’ll be in the heart of the action and save transportation time to activities. Don’t tell people you meet where you’re staying or announce your room number in the lobby.

Walk Alone at Night – You might walk alone at home comfortably, but in a new place, it’s better to be cautious. If there’s any question about the neighborhood, don’t go it alone. Catch a cab or walk with a group of people going the same place.

Over Imbibe – Having a pint at the pub is a great way to enjoy the local festivities and engage with friendly residents, but drinking too much lowers your cognition, reflexes, and judgment, making you an easy mark for theft. Be sure to eat food before drinking, pace yourself and don’t feel like you have to keep up with those who can drink more than you.

You don’t have to cower in your hotel to be safe on vacation. Go out and explore, meet people and learn, but don’t practice these behaviors that will help thieves take advantage of you.