Valuables, and getting your purchases home

Flea markets and antique fairs draw crowds. In a busy space, keep your wallet and phone deep in your bag or on your person. Carry your bag in front of you, and do not leave it on the ground when you look at items.

Sellers sometimes wrap things quickly in newspaper. It is a kind gesture, but on a train or bus it may not keep a piece from chipping. If the item is going into checked luggage, take extra care.

Wrap it again with clothes or a towel back at your hotel. Bubble wrap from a 100-yen shop is an easy extra layer. Put fragile items in the middle of your largest bag, where they are better protected.

Bags are often not given, so a large tote or a backpack is useful. Even when your purchases grow on the way back, your shoulders and hands will be less tired.