For most of us, being able to "get away from it all" – even for just a few days or a week – is something we work hard for and look forward to throughout the year. If the truth be known, many of us begin looking forward to next year's getaway as soon as we get back home from our current jaunt. But even though we simply want to relax and cast our cares to the wind during these times, we must still be vigilant where our security is concerned. Money is regularly lost or stolen while vacationing, and the ways that it's 'lifted' from unsuspecting travelers become more ingenious every day. So, to help keep you on your toes and your cash in your own possession where it belongs, here are a few tips for carrying money while you're away from home:

• Upon arrival at your destination, convert your money into foreign currency. Buy travelers' checks and carry around with you only the amount that you intend to use each day. Store the rest in your hotel's safe along with any other valuables you've brought.
• Use a money belt or money pouch to secure your cash. For instance, you can buy pouches that can be strapped to your leg, worn around your neck or placed around your waist. Most come with two separate compartments, one for your money and one for a passport or other small documents.
• Use only small denominations of currency when buying. Don't be scammed by cashiers or traders that claim you gave them a ten-dollar bill when in fact you handed them a twenty. By using only ones and fives you can avoid such ploys altogether.
• If you carry a purse with a shoulder strap, don't simply drape it from one shoulder; instead, place the strap around your neck while keeping the purse in front of you. When dining at a restaurant, don't hand your purse on the back of your chair; keep it on the floor sandwiched between your feet.
• Carry only one credit card when you're shopping or sight-seeing; nevertheless, make copies of it (as well as your passport and other important documents) and give one copy to a family member.
• When paying by credit card at a store or restaurant, ensure that your card is returned to you immediately, and double-check to see that it is indeed your own card. Bait-and-switch tactics are fairly common, and you could be given back an old or invalid card. If at all possible, don't let your card out of your sight.
• The old 'bump-and-go' is one of the oldest games in the book, but it's still alarmingly effective. Be keenly aware of your surroundings and the people that you come into contact with – or that come into contact with you. If someone gets too close, check your purse, pockets or money belt to ensure that nothing has been taken.
• Never place cash, jewelry, or other valuables in your luggage. If your bags are lost or stolen, you'll have an extremely difficult time while getting them back (if you get them at all), and it could ruin your vacation both financially and emotionally.