umm..i normally keep cash everywhere. two different wallets, some stashed in the backpack, with the passport, in the camera bag, pouch, pocket of my clothes. and always have a pocket knife just in case.
-make friends during travelling, i.e. in the bus when people are discussing where to go next and if same destination, hook up and travel together.
- have an idea on where to stay and know how to get there without getting cheated.