Locking attache case vs room safe?

[SmellyFarang 57]

Next trip I plan to use a "Vaultz Locking Laptop Case" for my computer, etc.

 

In addition to the dual combination locks is also has a side grommet that connects to a standard laptop security cable that I'll probably just loop through the closet hanger pole or something.

 

I realize this will be less secure than a room safe and that a couple kitchen knives could probably jigger the locks, but my main goal is simply prevent the temptation of an impulsive "grab 'n dash" by one of the girls while I'm in the shower or sleeping.

 

Has anyone had success with this before, or offer some better suggestions?

[cicero1520 19]

Have external backups with good insurance.

 

Saves a lot of mucking about.

[joekicker 53]

Yes, I'm not sure in the REAL world it's any less secure than a safe. Very close to 100 per cent, although not exactly 100 per cent of thefts from hotel rooms are "impulse shopping" and taking what's available. Almost no such thievery, although not exactly zero room thefts involve substantial planning or tampering, lock-breaking or carrying away the safe/briefcase/suitcase/whatever. It's almost always snatch-and-grab, taking what is left out.

 

Usually, as the Roman fellow says, what is ON the computer is more valuable to the owner than the computer. Backups, common sense, putting this briefcase in an inconspicuous place.... I'd feel as confident with this case as with a room safe. Both have their drawbacks, neither is perfect, but I can't see that a safe is better than this, particularly if you stow it.

 

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[FoxtrotOscar 36]

Next trip I plan to use a "Vaultz Locking Laptop Case" for my computer, etc.

 

In addition to the dual combination locks is also has a side grommet that connects to a standard laptop security cable that I'll probably just loop through the closet hanger pole or something.

 

I realize this will be less secure than a room safe and that a couple kitchen knives could probably jigger the locks, but my main goal is simply prevent the temptation of an impulsive "grab 'n dash" by one of the girls while I'm in the shower or sleeping.

 

Has anyone had success with this before, or offer some better suggestions?

 

My advice, stick to the room safe. Bringing an armoured briefcase automatically advertises the fact you've got something valuable and are trying to protect it. Low key is best.

[zyphur 31]

My advice, stick to the room safe. Bringing an armoured briefcase automatically advertises the fact you've got something valuable and are trying to protect it. Low key is best.

Wise words. Best not to advertise that you have something they might want or better still, be able to sell.

[Montydog 135]

Next trip I plan to use a "Vaultz Locking Laptop Case" for my computer, etc.

 

In addition to the dual combination locks is also has a side grommet that connects to a standard laptop security cable that I'll probably just loop through the closet hanger pole or something.

 

 

All that will happen if you hook it to the wardrobe rail is that you will get a bill for the damage, if/when it’s ripped out taking your stuff. Ever seen the quality of Thai “flat pack” furniture.

 

I used a http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&_action=detail&id=18 in the past or when there has been no room safe or security box type option.

 

I’ve usually secured them through the fridge door at the top near the hinge. Going on the premise that it’s the heaviest item in the room and security would stop them stealing hotel property if not mine.

Edited September 18, 2011 by Montydog

[js007 795]

Stay at a place with good security that doesn't employ thieving maids. How you determine that, I'm not sure.

 

In all my trips, I've never had a problem. I usually stay at small guest houses.

[losgrad 264]

Yes, I'm not sure in the REAL world it's any less secure than a safe. Very close to 100 per cent, although not exactly 100 per cent of thefts from hotel rooms are "impulse shopping" and taking what's available. Almost no such thievery, although not exactly zero room thefts involve substantial planning or tampering, lock-breaking or carrying away the safe/briefcase/suitcase/whatever. It's almost always snatch-and-grab, taking what is left out.

 

Usually, as the Roman fellow says, what is ON the computer is more valuable to the owner than the computer. Backups, common sense, putting this briefcase in an inconspicuous place.... I'd feel as confident with this case as with a room safe. Both have their drawbacks, neither is perfect, but I can't see that a safe is better than this, particularly if you stow it.

 

.

 

 

All that will happen if you hook it to the wardrobe rail is that you will get a bill for the damage, if/when it’s ripped out taking your stuff. Ever seen the quality of Thai “flat pack” furniture.

 

I used a http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&_action=detail&id=18 in the past or when there has been no room safe or security box type option.

 

I’ve usually secured them through the fridge door at the top near the hinge. Going on the premise that it’s the heaviest item in the room and security would stop them stealing hotel property if not mine.

 

I've used something similar for my laptops and valuables (Credit Cards, Passports, etc..) especially if I suspect the room safe can be more easily tampered or easily opened by any staff. I also use the referenced "PacSafe" products. A large variety of travel security items from small caches to lockable backpacks. These are especially useful when traveling in overnight trains or those rooms barely qualified as guesthouses.

 

Take the precautions that make travel comfortable for you, but be prepared for losses by keeping vital information off your computer and copy of CC and passports available elsewhere.

[streeteats 30]

I took an old army ammo box and put a padlock housing on it. I pu'd up a sturdy bicycle cable. I now either lace it thru the plumbing pipes with a chocker knot simply by going around the pipe and pushing one loop thru the other. Than the lose loop goes on the padlock with the ammo box. you can hide it by throwing some laundry over it. If your not into making the box, just by a sturdy tool box that takes a pad lock. I also got one of those cheap personal keychain alarms so if anyone tampers with it a scretching alarm well go off. I think this is better than a room safe because they're no better than the integratee of the hotel.

 

I once stayed in this shit hole in Bk caleed the Watanna Mansion. the safe kept messing up cause they wouldn't change the batteries. First the manager came up with all the bypass keys on one chain to all the room safes. The next time it happened it was a cleaning lady. The next time it was a maintanance guy. So draw your own conclusions.

[Grandpollo 366]

Tips

 

Use the small Pacsafe which is a bag about 10" or so. Buy a small Pelican box which is hard plastic. Put the valuables in the box, then the box in the Pacsafe, lock it and put the works in the safe . Sneaky staff with master keys won't get far nor a TG if the door is left ajar.

 

Also bring AA batteries. It takes no time to change them and the protection beats whining over lost stuff for the sake of $3 in batteries.

 

And stay in less dishonest shitholes as mentioned.

[PigBoy#1 28]

Take the precautions that make travel comfortable for you, but be prepared for losses by keeping vital information off your computer and copy of CC and passports available elsewhere.

 

 

I scan my important information at the office and then send it to my hotmail account. No matter where I am, if I can get internet access, I can access my important documents.

 

PB#1