How to OUTSMART Pickpockets in Europe (Avoid Scams + Stay Safe)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 พ.ค. 2024
- Avoid Pickpockets in Europe by understanding the 3 Ways Pickpockets Trick You and 5 Ways to OUTSMART Pickpockets.
In today’s video we answer why pickpocketing is so prevalent in Europe, the worst European cities for pickpockets, and most importantly, how to prevent being pickpocketed yourself!
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Check Out @portableprofessional’s video about Europe Travel Scams! • Top 5 SNEAKY Tourist S...
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⏰ Timecodes ⏰
0:00 How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe
0:47 Why Does Europe Have So Many Pickpockets?
1:10 Top Cities for Pickpockets
1:29 Three Circumstances Pickpockets Use to Trick You
1:45 Circumstance #1: You're in a Crowd
2:52 Circumstance #2: You're Distracted
3:31 Circumstance #3: Your Guard is Down
5:20 5 Ways to Outsmart Pickpockets in Europe
5:31 Tip #1: Have a Plan for Your Stuff
6:25 Use a Travel Sling
6:44 Are Money Belts Necessary?
7:00 Front Pocket Wallet
7:13 Tip #2: Wear Travel Clothing with Zippered Pockets
7:24 Benefits of Merino Wool for Travel
7:45 Unbound Merino Review
8:13 Tip #3: Make Copies of Important Documents
8:58 Tip #4: Get Travel Insurance
9:17 World Nomads Travel Insurance
9:52 Tip #5: Don't Let Pickpockets Ruin Your Trip
10:38 Europe Travel Scams to Avoid
#ad #pickpockets #unboundmerino
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Caught a guy trying to get into my purse on a bus in Paris. Grabbed his arm and screamed Pick pocket
Wow! What happened next?
What happened when you did that? How did the other passengers react? Did he break your grip and get away? Was he arrested?
@@articfrost3569How is this question relevant?
@@articfrost3569 Are you serious?😐🤨 Please don't do that. We know exactly what you are trying to pull
@@Ray__Ewhat did that guy say?
This video makes me want to fill a backpack with old school mousetraps and ride the Paris metro from the Louvre station. I’ll look forward to the snapping and the screaming.
That's a WONDERFUL idea! ❤
A must-do! 🤣
ahahahaha you should have a fake gift card/credit card sticking out of the bag to make sure you get those bastards.
Try those little cactus.
😂😂😂😂
We were at the end of our 2 week European vacation and we got complacent. My cousin was using her Travelon anti-theft bag for most of our trip and then she used a bag that she bought from Florence. We were walking back to our bus in Bratislava when the pick pocket incident happened. Thankfully, they were unsuccessful. My cousin had clipped her wallet in the key ring inside the bag. The pick pocketer managed to open her bag and got her wallet but because it was clipped, she wasn’t able to pull it out completely. The 2 women passed me and they were nicely dressed. I wouldn’t have thought that they were evil.
My husband and me used to travel together (the 2 of us) and are always very observant for pickpockets. We look around, hold our hands in front of our pockets (often pockets on the inside of jacket with zipper. We never found ourself being preyed on and never were victim of pickpockets. Then, we had our first city trip after our children were born, to Paris. With a stroller and a toddler in the metro. Immediately, we were targeted. They just knew that we literally had our hands full, were distracted by our kids. There was a guy asking me directions (or something, my French is not that good and he was deliberately speaking unclear and sort of jibberish) and another was moving unnecessary close to my husband and he felt him reaching to his pocket. He still had his wallet in his pocket on the inside of his jacket, so no loot for the pickpockets, but I was shocked that we were suddenly been seen as an easy target (and were more vulnarable) with small children. My husband gave the pickpocket a death stare and the guys got out of the train at the next stop. We always try to avoid standing close to others, but sometimes it is so busy
My family just visited Rome and Barcelona. We had a great time and didn’t experience anything bad. However, when we were at a restaurant, we sat at a table inside right behind the restaurant’s sliding door). Our waitress told us to do not hang purse on the chair and phone on the table. She said thief will wait for the door to open and snag our purse/ phone. I noticed waiters occasionally stood outside of the sliding door as if they guarded the door. That was very nice of the staff.
When we were at the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC in Spanish), staff walked around and reminded visitors to carry crossbody bags in the front, not on our sides or the back. When I was looking at a painting, as I turned around, I almost bumped into a woman who stood unusually close to me. At the time, the room was very empty. There were only 2 or 3 other people in the room besides her and myself, and the painting was huge. She didn’t have to be that close to me in order to see. I told my friend about that and my friend said the woman probably attempted to pick-pocket me.
Great tips. Complacency is probably the number one thing that gets people. Always be aware of your surroundings. We all can become awe-struck, especially when visiting a new place. But keep your head on a swivel. If something doesn't feel right in your gut, follow those instincts. Removing yourself from a situation/area can not only save you from being robbed but may even save your life.
Pickpocketing doesn’t happen in Japan or Taiwan, you can leave a iPhone in a cafe shop on the table and go to restroom and come back, the phone is still there. It’s hard to believe but it’s true.
Singapore too very safe country.
So true about Japan!
I would not leave stuff at the hotel. Few times I walked into other people rooms when I was given the wrong key. Plus cleaning staff will leave all doors open when cleaning rooms. Some one can sneak in when rooms are being cleaned. So, leave nothing you are afraid to lose in the hotel room.
Great tip! Thanks for sharing.
Solution: Leave the "Do Not Disturb" sign on your door handle. (Also housekeeper will appreciate this because 1 less room for them to clean. *They cleaned at list 15 rooms a day*) If you need clean towels or trash emptied you can always call housekeeping department after you get back and they will deliver clean towels and take your trash away.
I’m always on high alert when I travel to Europe and it pays off !I was in Liverpool during the coronation of King Charles and after touring Anfield Stadium I looked for a pub in order to chill and check on what I had bought there . Keep in mind I had a loud REI red backpack that kept my credit cards , passport, cash, GoPro and camera . Yeah I was target for this good looking lad who broke the ice and started chatting but he didn’t get anything because I kept my stuff near me by all means. He later left empty handed because I’m a wiser solo female traveler . I’ll be back to Liverpool next year ! I still have a lot to see there .Claudia . Austin Texas
I sewed pockets into the waistband inside my favorite travel skirt and pants-one for my credit card and cash, the other for my passport. That may be overkill since I always use a sling bag held in front. 😊
Yay! Congratulations on your sponsor! 👏🏻 Excellent clothing choices! I remember stashing cash all over my person in high school and college during mission trips. Would have loved zipper pockets and clothing that could be worn more frequently!
Great video! Thanks! 👌🏻
Thanks Nik. We just got back from our trip to Europe and fortunately had no problems with pickpockets, but found that all the taxi drivers were willing to rob you blind in broad daylight. None that we hired used meters, so pricing was arbitrary. Fortunately we traveled with other families so we were able to compare notes about pricing differences. From cab to cab pricing could be DOUBLE depending on who you were dealing with. This was a bit of a drag to deal with, but overall we still had an amazing time. Cheers!
Great job! Your videos are right on. We’ve beeb to Europe multiple times, and agree with everything you said.
“Wise as serpents, harmless as doves”
☺️🙏🏻♥️IYKYK 🙌🏻
Good to be alert and aware. But in my years of traveling I've yet to experience any pick pockets. Have been to 4 out of the 5 top cities for pick pockets. I always keep my wallet in my front pocket and will move my phone to my front pocket in any crowded areas. On public transport if wearing a back pack I move it to the front for safety and to be polite to others so it isn't banging into people.
Thank you for this! I'm going solo to Italy in September and this has helped tremendously
Thanks for that Nik some very helpful tips as we head of to Europe. Really enjoy your channel...safe travels!
Glad it was helpful! Safe travels!
Thankfully, when I traveled to Paris and Madrid, I didn’t lose anything. I had a chain wallet with some euros in my front pocket. And I attached my cell phone to a lanyard that I wore around my neck. My first trip to Europe was awesome and unforgettable. 🇪🇺😎
Studying abroad in the UK next week so this video came at the perfect time! Realistically I'm trying not to buy anymore gear than I already own, but I guess I need to be especially cautious when I visit Paris. Many thanks!
Anther important and well-presented vid! Danke!
I found a cheap $0.99 rain poncho to work wonders. I was separated from my husband in Paris, and was surrounded by young kids as I was purchasing a ticket. Had a backpack type purse. I could feel the little hands around me, trying to get into my purse and being unable to because of the rain poncho.
You put the poncho over your bag?
@@zerkorj I wear the poncho. As my purse was a back-pack styl;e item, the poncho covered it.
@@ccllamas thanks
Just subscribed and catching upon your great content - thank you for all of the great tips! We are planning to travel to Italy next May (family of 4-5). Would you do a video on the Italian train system? I happened to notice your ticket and train in your Italy vlog from last year. Thank you! If you've already provided this content and I've just missed it, please let me know and I'll search some more.
Thanks for the shout-out! Excellent video and I LOVED the specific examples of common situations. The train door trick is (unfortunately) so clever.
Thank you for that interesting tips about avoiding the pickpockets.
You had some good advice about avoiding pickpockets.
Its really good and thank you for information.
I would also like to know about the travel clothes that you mention about . If you can please give me information were I get some of the clothes that you mention.
Thank for the advice to be safe when travelling to different countries . Thank you 🏖✈👍
Oh dear i hope i can remember all of this. So much good advice
As a group leader I've warned my students times out of number about pickpockets in major European touristy cities and have also travelled on my own a lot. The only time ever to be pickpocketed was in the city where I've been living for 35 years, three years ago, in the main pedestrian street. With my wallet and money in it went off also all my documents - identity card, debit cards, healthcare card, driver's licence, permanent buspass, my car traffic permit, several loyalty cards and what not.
Well explained!
Good information. TFS.
Great tips. Well be traveling to Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales in September, and although we have traveled to Europe abd Great Britain before, it is always good to have a reminder. I've taken most of these precautions before, but that front facing bag is a good idea.
I have never heard of anyone being pickpocketed in the UK outside of London. It really isn't an issue.
I just got back from London. I even did a side day trip to Paris to see the Eiffel tower. Had heard it was a problem there especially on the subway. Outside of subway being overly crowded with everybody standing at times especially on the circle line nothing happened. Didn’t feel unsafe at all. Didn’t hear of anyone else complaining about pickpockets.
I used a small mini chums wallet got at REI that only had ID, 2 cards, and some cash. Cargo shorts I wore had 2 zippered pockets up front that I put phone in and wallet in the other if I felt wanted to be extra safe. Other cards and passport in hotel safe. Packed carryon and a backpack so getting up stairs and in and out of public transportation wasn’t as bad when I arrived. Also used a north face Bozer cinch pack as a day pack that worked well though didn’t see many people with that brand. Didn’t normally store valuables in cinch backpack only guidebook, disposable water bottle, light jacket, and umbrella.
Only odd things about London most of the shops and tourist attractions close up by 6-6:30pm. This time of year it’s daylight from 4:15am to almost 10pm. Laundry at hotel was 3-5 pounds per item. Pair of underwear would have been 3 pounds by itself. Doing it myself at an off sight laundry was 20 pounds for 2 loads with me providing detergent. 25 pounds if they provide detergent. Only took a taxi once and it was expensive. 65 pounds to go back to the airport. Subway would have been 4-5. Homeless population only a few noticed and occasionally someone asking for money compared to US cities like Seattle, WA with tents everywhere even on main sidewalks. Ten British pounds equals almost $13 US dollars.
For summer, I wear short sleeve shirts with zippered front pocket(s) that will fit my passport, thin wallet and a phone if not too much weight on the shirt. The only brand I could find is Fjallraven. If I wear a T-shirt or polo shirt, I wear an Eagle creek neck pouch but wear it crosswise inside my shirt for my passport and extra cash. I try to wear clothes like the locals but that does not matter if you are mainly in the tourist areas where everybody are tourists😂.
I did watch some pickpockets videos before. Avoid rush hours in metro if possible. Example Paris about 08.00-10.00 and 17.00-20.00.
Carrying copies of documents saved us when my husband’s backpack was stolen in Mexico. I’m a more experienced traveler and automatically use your techniques. I like your idea of not being paranoid. Just practice these habits.
I have 2 wallets which have straps that can be looped on my belt, one has a zipper and one has an elastic band so they can't be quickly opened up. The straps are made of material that is difficult to cut. Despite that my cell phone was pinched right out of my front pocket at the exit of a subway in Paris, I wasn't as protective of my phone because I didn't think it was of value to a pickpocket. It was fingerprint locked. I felt a tug on my pants. I turned around to see a guy running down the steps while another stepped in my way and asked "What is wrong? Did you lose this?" as he waved an old wallet in my face. He gave the other guy enough time to get away - or maybe he was the pick pocket and the other guy was the distraction. In the end they got nothing, I immediately returned to my hotel room and used my laptop to scram the CPU of the phone.
Phone theft is VERY common. I was at a restaurant w my Bro in-law in France and he had his phone on the table, on top of the menu. The waiter closed the menu over his phone and lifted it. Being a life long NY'er I caught it and grabbed the waiter, but it happened so quickly if your guard was down or you were distracted it can happen SO easily. Keep your radar up and always be be aware.
Sometimes even putting things in the front pocket won't be foolproof. A colleague's husband got his phone stolen out of his front pocket in Barcelona. It's sad but true that children are often used in pickpocketing scams. The worst is the people who keep a baby/toddler drugged and asleep all day to be used as a cover for stealing people's stuff.
Especially here in Paris where I live
Great advice! Put your valuables in a theft resistant place, be aware of your personal space and enjoy your trip. I got a cross body bag that fit snuggly between my upper arm and ribs. At the Munich Oktoberfest a "drunk" acted like he wanted to shake hands but I didn't. I was told that after he passed me he instantly "sobered up". Sneaky attempt to get my arm off my bag failed.
Just back from Paris and on two of the three trips on the Metro we were targeted. Both times groups of four singled me out and crowded round when it was busy, using the short time between stations. "Helping" with my suitcase to distract as the other man unzipped my sling bag. The other time was four East European girls obstructing the way onto the train. Fortunately I didn't lose anything but they are well organised, avoid the Metro at the busy times if you can.
Good info, what is the brand of the sling bag ?
There are some well reviewed anti-theft backpacks online.
Most are pricey for sure.
I recall the Passport Heavy guy reviewing one in his Lux London video.
Weaving an ad into a safety video. Good job👏
The problem with money belts is they're so uncomfortable and after a while the elastic strap stretches and they then dangle. There are definitely other ways.
Was traveling in Rome on business and a coworker got pickpocketed in the subway. Thankfully it was only a money clip with little cash and not his passport or credit cards
The "use the front pocket" one is the most important one most men need. As a tourist specially, don't put your wallet in your arse-pocket. Lived in Mallorca for 11 years, only ONCE I saw a pickpocket and it was while my brother came to visit (he stayed for a week or so) and he's used to to wear his wallet on his back pocket. We got lucky and I reacted to that when I saw the first attempt.
My colleague had a wallet in front pocket of jeans but girls gang in Paris still took it out while boarding the metro. So, front pockets are not safe until you have your hand in that pocket.
I fell and broke my arm in a parking lot. I'm 63. Everyone ignored me. I couldn't get up because I couldn't lean on my arm. There was blood on my leg. People apparently assumed I was a scammer. It was 90 degrees. A young woman going to work finally helped me up after I laid there for 15 minutes. How do you tell the difference?
Whoa! What country? That is terrible that happened! What an awful feeling that must have been!
When I was in Rome one night on a bus, I was almost pick-pocketed. The bus was very packed and could barely move and I felt the velcro sealed pocket on my shorts opening (cargo shorts, and it was a lower down pocket). I quick turned a different direction so no pockets with anything in it were facing that direction. It was too crowded to tell who it was, but the person knew they were caught and didn't try again. The only thing in that pocket was my Kindle (had a guide for where we were visiting that day on it), so it wouldn't have been a huge loss but still sad.
I highly recommend using pockets that actually close by either a zipper or velcro. That makes it much harder for them to take things without you noticing. It certainly saved my Kindle.
Im living in Netherlands for 28 years travelled from the start visited amd tour around families and Friends from abroad, never been a victim but had been always been a target because of Asian families Thanks God i outsmart them all the time or Prayers help me a lot BUT im tired playing as bodyguards to the point of being paranoid because i feel responsible to my guess ..and Europe Had been so Far far worsen than 26 years ago its a Pity because of massive boarders opening..i feel sad i still remember how safe it feels before..of course not the Big cities you mention.
Amsterdam or in general Holland has a lot of civilian Police and my Son is one..He gave me tips and assurance..en indeed be like locals not tourist.. Fashion shows like before forget it ladies 😂 .. dont confront them for their in groups but let them know you feel them..i m not scared in Holland But outside pppfft im done with citytrip..Thanks God ive seen most of them but family and friends still keep on visiting..Thanks you
I've travelled extensively around the world I've been robbed in hotels twice 3 pickpocket attempts it stopped and twice when something was stolen.
All these happened in the USA.
I also find the hustlers are far worse in the tourist hotshots in the USA than anywhere else as a polite no usually stops them everywhere else but not in the USA.
I can’t comment on how I stash my money , credit cards and documents but a pickpocket would be very upset at me . I have a pacsafe bag that saved my life this past May in London . My REI backpack wrapped with a wire all over . I see that anyone could tell I was a tourist but I had a great time . I’ll be back to Liverpool next year .
Money belts (waist and neck) are excellent. I've travelled around Europe and around different parts of the world using them. Brilliant. NB Transfer what u need for the day to a separate wallet before you leave your hotel.
One feature that I look for in my purse and wallet is RFID protection. The front pocket wallet looked perfect but did not specify in description and the online chat at the site would not answer if it is RFID protected without me providing my e-mail which I will not do.
Phone stolen, Barcelona subway, jammed me at the exit door took it from my front jacket pocket.
Wow so sorry to hear that!
At just 18, I had my pocket picked on Copacabana Beach in Rio at 1AM (I know, really dumb to be on that beach at 1AM). Generally, pickpockets are non violent. If you catch them in the act like I did, just use enough force to retrieve your property. Do not attempt to restrain or punish them. There are others around who will intervene.
Agreed. Hold your ground but don’t over-retaliate.
just SCREAM
Appreciate your content. Terrific tips. First time traveling outside the US. Going to London & Paris in December and traveling solo. You mentioned carrying your passport. Why would I need to do that while sightseeing? Also, was thinking about some sort of bag to wear under my overcoat or jacket. Can you suggest something snd is this a good idea. And I will check out Unbound Merino. Best,
In some places, you have to have an ID on you as a foreigner
Haven’t read through all the comments, but what I do with my zip up bag or backpack is to ‘lock’ it with safety pins making it more difficult for the pickpocketer. Happy travelling everyone.
The way I sit on a chair, I wouldn't be able to stuff my phone into my front pockets, it would be too big or the pockets to small. Maybe it's different with MEN's trousers, I don't know. As a woman I wouldn't put my phone in my trousers at all, maybe my purse if I think it's not safe in my handbag. But a string for the phone would be an option and then wearing that across the chest like the handbag. But if women have trousers without pockets or skirts, there will be problems. And not every woman wants to wear cargo trousers, they are very bulky. Maybe tackle that again? Your tips were great, but mainly for men.
Great information! Even for those travelling in the US. Here is California, ALL of these things happen regularly in San Francsico, Oakland and Los Angeles.
Yes that happened to me in nevada
Can you link that sling bag Aille used? It looks really good!
Get a shoulder bag and keep it in front of you with either a luggage lock or shoelace looped through the zipper handles and the o ring the strap is attached to. Double knot very tightly the shoelace.
Anyone who is friendly without a reason is a suspect to me and will get no response. I was a victim of a pickpocket in Prague and I had to learn the hard way. Everyone around me is an enemy when I am out anywhere.
We travel thru Italy quite often and we have never been taken by pickpockets in public places, buses or subways. We are very observant and vigilant and never let our guard down in any of those places. All it takes is common sense. We take money for the day, phone,pass ports,and ID in inside jacket pockets with zippers.
I have heard that in some cultures, petty thievery is just a sport, nothing to be ashamed of, even a sport.
So I’m wondering about staying at an agriturismo, rooms may not have safes I’m guessing. Are people lugging all their stuff around the whole time?
Just a add on if u stay in hostels don't leave it there unless u get locker just dont forget ur lock ;3
A friend says that she keeps her cash & cards in her bra when she travels.
I would love to see the look on people's faces when she has to pay for things!
Ask a beach bartender where cash comes from if a girl is wearing a tiny bikini
Always leave cash, credit and debit cards and important papers in your hotel or Air B&B where the staff can easily steal them. (NO!)
I am European. Don't wear a backpack. Don't wear an expensive watch or any kind of jewellery. All Europeans use a satchel that with a strap over the shoulder and held under the hand towards the front. As was noted in the video, Europe is not really dangerous; you have to try hard to get mugged. I think the tripping-on-the-escalator trick is the most common, after crowded trains. So if you are cautious about the tricks of pickpockets then you can have fun and be relaxed. Away from the major centres there is no problem at all, eg Cologne or Frankfurt or Copenhagen. They are incredibly safe cities. I have been in Paris and was approached by gypsies, who try to distract you and use children to try to pick your pocket. Ditto cities in Bulgaria. They are overtly obvious and mostly easy to avoid It is nevertheless wise to have nothing in the pocket to pick ! If I wear an anorak or jacket in cool weather then my wallet/passport etc are in zipped pockets inside the jacket. If you must wear a backpack, make sure it has an internal pocket that can be sealed and is against your back next to the padding. If you do get mugged, give up everything. Nothing is worth endangering yourself over. Which is why you should have insurance and an extra credit card in your hotel room safe. I once had everything taken in Marseilles including my passport, but I survived and could re-enter my country with a police statement (it was pre-EU time). It is of course highly convenient if you have a copy of your passport on the 'net somewhere. Don't get obsessed by pickpockets, and if you are a US American, then pack one tenth of what you think you need, especially if you go to Venice.
I have jeans that have the same front pants pocket, but an additional internal one on each side. Amazing. Why don't all travel pants have this?
Why would you travel with you passport once you arrive at you lodging? Leave it in the safe or locked suitcase.
It would be helpful if you mentioned that World Nomads Insurance doesn't accept anyone over 65.
Good to know. Thanks!
Do you really take your passport woth you everywhere? I've often kept it in the hotel safe, or stashed away. And always put out the do not disturb on the door. I get the possibility if having it taken during cleaning especially if they are working on several rooms at once but having it on you also seems like an opportunity to have it taken.
Am going to Prague I’m august should I carry my passport everywhere I go is it that necessary?
If your travelling to any spot with a higher rate of violent crime don’t bring a bag that the strap can’t be cut on a trip to Quito we where instructed to do this due to the fact some of the people in the trek ahead of us almost had one of their group nearly killed since they brought a bag that was cut proof to instead of the bag being cut they where cut
I believe the absolute key to safety is SITUATIONAL AWARENESS. A lot of our young people have grown up in a relatively safe country. They are clueless and trusting.
Which country are you from?
I'm from the USA and was raised in neighborhoods that definitely taught me situational awareness.
USA
Yeah, the US is so safe people go around with guns hiden on their person LOL
Does being a large and imposing figure discourage pick-pockets? One would think they would be less likely to risk being caught by someone who could easily harm them physically, but I’m pretty ignorant on the subject.
Zippered pants. Use them!
Just got my s23 pickpocket in madrid, i had my phone in my puffy jacket, it had zipper and all but they can still get in... their stealth are fucking maxed out... i didnt even feel someone was behind me. At this point i dont even want my phone, i just want to see how they do it so i can counter it 😭😭
On the metro in Rome I felt a hand ony front pants pocket. Wierd feeling but my pocket eas empty.
that all were useful for me
I went around Italy back in February, I felt very safe in Rome. No suspicion of anyone stealing nor was anything missing. But as I stopped by Pisa to see the tower, there was a guy telling people where to park, including my family. We were very aware and made sure everything was locked, but as soon as we left and came back, all our luggage were gone. We reported it to the police but they didn't do anything about the situation
Europe has pickpockets. North America has car break-ins. Same thing. I'm a little scared as I'm visiting Spain/Portugal for the first time but I think I'll be mostly fine as a solo traveler. (although I will be a prime target also because I'm Asian)
Unbound merino doesn’t have anything in my size. What is the alternative for a big guy?
So many choices to go on vacation this is one im worried about. I dont trust easily and i want to enjoy my vacation. Dont know where to go for my first euro trip.
Do you think that items like Pacsafe and Travelon items will help avoid theft
My sister bought my niece a Travelon bag for a trip to Italy a few months ago. But, my niece was traveling with other young women and wanted to look "cool". Her passport was stolen in the Madrid airport before she even got to Italy. Lesson learned.
Include Italy and France on your Top 5 countries where there are many pickpockets.
Spain to !
My Spanish/Puerto Rican cousin got so ripped off in a street game by hundreds of dollars. She was so ashamed. She didn't tell the family about it. This happened in Barcelona. I'm actually headed there myself this autumn. I got my game plan ready.😂
If you go to Barcelona, stay away from the Las Ramblas area. It’s full of pickpockets.
Love the travel sling Allie is wearing! Any chance you could tell us the brand or post a link? Thank you!
It's by Free People! Used to be in stock on Amazon but is out of stock. It is either this model exactly or a VERY similar version: www.freepeople.com/shop/hudson-sling-bag/?category=crossbody-bags&color=023&type=REGULAR&size=One%20Size&quantity=1
The motor scooters driving by and snatching watches amazed me! Some were in busses with their arms on the window ledge.
And yes, slash proof purses. Before then I had a Fanny pack worn in the front. I put an extra pocket in it that didn’t touch the bottom. Then I put things that would clatter in the bottom hoping they would make noise and the thief would think the pack was basically empty.
My experience is that they’re usually very well dressed.
Most people walk around on their phone oblivious to their surroundings, keep expensive iphone out of sight as much as possible. 2 those dorky Trousers you don’t like have zipped pockets keep wallets in side or front zipped pockets. Have several wallets one with cards really secure and a second wallet for small notes and tickets. 3 don’t be afraid to tell people pestering to Piss off .
I used pants that had pockets closed by velcro - super noisy to get into them - no problems
Hahaha amazing
MILANO AS WELL
I was in London, Paris and Dublin for 21 days during August 2023. I noticed a lot of women had the Lululemon bag, crossed over their chest (sling). I had one, too, but a woman tried to unzip it while I was getting on to the metro in Paris. She got my Asthma inhaler, she could not find the secret zipper, so totally worth it.
Y are absolutely right add london pls
They might steal those expensive pants🤭
ok, cool guide. please do next one, how to avoid being shot in US.
I would probably get a jacket with an internal pocket with a zipper that I can put my passport wallet and phone in. They would have to unzip my jacket and the pocket to get my things.
A lady tried to pick my pocket on a bus in Rome. I didn’t have anything in my pockets. I carry a neck wallet and wear loose fitting button up plaid shirts. Hide the wallet cord beneath the collar.
When you got Europe and a stranger very friendly comes to you, say "Get away from me!" Firmly. You get away from someone who wants to come close to you.
Chain your wallet and your front phone to your front pockets. Don't put it in your back pocket. I always put my passport in a passport pouch and carry it around my neck.
In Athens they tried to get my wallet in the three times. In Rome they're everywhere. Take only so much money and leave the rest in the hotel safe.