To add to the advice of not confronting a pick pocket too physically when identified, teams of female pick pockets will also often have male protection in the carriage ready to intervene if need be and it won’t be obvious who is ready to step out of the crowd to back them up. We just finished a year living in Paris and saw first hand on a few occasions how it plays out. Take care people and thanks for another great video Antoine and Colleen!
After hundreds of cities visited in 4 continents, I can confirm the solid risk of pickpockets. Not just based on my own experience but also plenty of travelling family members, friends and colleagues, some places are more dangerous then others. As said in the video, put Barcelona and Rome high on the list of risky places. Paris is just a small step down, and don’t forget New York. I avoid cash completely, except for 3 or 4 coins in case of a toilet that has no electronic gate yet. I also avoid credit cards, and I only use a debit card linked to Apple pay. I then keep my wallet and phone hidden and only use my Aplle watch. I have 2 iPhones and 2 Apple watches: the newer ones at home, and the older ones for travel. This requires some synchronisation efforts, but I found that Apple made it quite easy. I still prefer backpacks, but I go for a small one and it will contain some rainprotection or foldable umbrella, a guidebook, a small powerbank, hand sanitation gel, some tissues, basic medication in case of pain, cramps or diarrhea, a pen and paper. A phone charging cable, some sunscreen or other cream, a comb, a spare folded plastic bag, a simple replacement shoelace, sunglasses, small nailscissors, … are in there too. The trick is to give every item its exact fixed place, so of you need something you dont need to ‘unload’ other things, or sit around with your bag open for a prolonged time. And after use I put the item back at its fixed place. I know that modern phones are sophisticated camera with plenty of functions, and ofcourse GPS location of where the photo was made. But this requires getting the phone out way too often. So I prefer a small very portable camera, like the Canon Poweshot G7x, that I attach to my wrist with a cord. It makes beautifull photos, it is water and dust resistant, and in my opinion thiefs are not so much interested in cameras. The camera is black but with some nail polish I gave it a used and weathered look, so it seems even less interesting for thieves. A last tip: when travelling with a friend it is ofcourse nice to walk together and talk. But in a busy metro it is easier to find a place to sit if you accept single places. So we sit apart for short trips, and then we keep an eye on eachothers surroundings. We ofcourse decided before exactly where to get of, eliminating discussions or getting out maps or guidebooks.
Excellent advice all round & as you say we have exactly the same issues in the UK in our smaller cities & some large towns even, not only London. As you suggest I have had scanned copies of my passport & driver's licence etc. on my phone for many years & even if I lose that it's on the cloud. As we visit mainly in the autumn my wife always puts her bag under her coat when we are on the Metro.
I always travel alone and I am very fortunate that I have not been pick pocketed so far. I sadly this last time in Paris got scammed by a fake cab. He charged me 150 euros to go 3-4 miles. I told him I didn't have it. He got 100 out of me and thankfully I got my luggage back . He was in taxi stand so I sadly assumed he was real. Very good video and excellent advise.
Bonjour Colleen & Antoine! I just returned from 10 blissful (if remarkably WET) days in Paris & Normandy, & I was shocked at the number of my fellow travelers walking around with big purses, backpacks, or wallets & phones in easy to snatch pockets. I don’t use a money belt but a small crossbody sling w/“locking zippers” that I can wear under my jacket & holds a tiny RFID wallet, coins, a lipgloss, hand sanitizing wipes & my phone pretty securely. After living in NYC & riding the subways for over 50 years, I KNOW that I look & sound like a tourist in Europe, but that’s no reason to make it easy for thieves. And yes, I have scanned copies of my documents printed & in the Cloud. Excellent advice as always: merci beaucoup! ❤🇫🇷❤
A huge thank you. We took our bucket list Europe trip last month. We watched your videos before we left. We took the Eurostar to Paris and transfered to Lazare and onto Caen. We did it like locals! We had all the apps required to buy tickets and get rental cars etc. Thanks for the education
Great tips! The only thing I would add is that my Parisian girlfriends carry (cloth) totes instead of purses to deter pickpockets. The reason this works is that pickpockets do not want to have to dig deeply into a big bag and rummage around to find things. You will see women carrying totes everywhere. During my two-month stays in Paris every year, I always carry a tote and have it over my shoulder; then when I’m on the metro, I move it in front of me and look pretty fierce. I have never had any problems (over the decades) on the Paris Metro.
I was a victim at the subway in Paris many years ago. Two guys simulated a discussion, one pushed the other, the pushed one bumped into me. My wallet was gone. It all happened the moment the doors of the car opened, I went inside and they stayed on the plataform "arguing". I had about 100 euros and a credit card, they did $10.000 shopping on it in about 15 minutes before I could report the CC operator. Thank God insurance covered it.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…you two make the best damn videos…period. I just wish more people would view them and take your sage advice. Please keep making these informative videos. Thanks 🥂 PS: Since 1972, I’m 4 and 0 against pickpockets.
Superb information, Colleen and Antoine. You know I have travelled extensively and have Paris on the list using your videos for suggestions and recommendations which are invaluable! May I add: I make 2 copies of my Passport before I leave home. I carry a copy of my Passport with me and my original is in the safe in my room. I never ever carry my original Passport with me unless it is required -- and that has never happened. BTW: plenty of pickpockets here in NYC as well so your suggestions apply here as well! Many thanks as always !
Great advice. I’d be interested in a video about taxis & Uber in Paris. I’m married to a Parisian, but like you, he’s lived in the US for decades. We were in Paris last May for the 1st time in years since the 🇫🇷 family mostly lives on the Côte d’Azur now. We didn’t want to haul luggage around on the Metro so we took an Uber from the app on our US phones. It was more expensive, I think than in the US. I remember years ago in Paris that we could only catch taxis at taxi stands in Paris. Is that still true? Are taxis cheaper than Uber? Thanks.
Slings are great. I use one in my everyday life and it's where my wallet goes now instead of my pants pocket. The key elements - strong zippers, a strap that is hard to detach, and a zipper pouch that goes up against your body.
Good advice. Best advice I was given was to avoid big crowds but also avoid areas totally absent of people. Tourists have a big advantage in the metro because they can usually avoid the morning and evening rush hours when it’s most crowded but the locals can’t. I do sit near the door but I’ve found that I can protect my crossbody with my arms keeping my elbows firmly at my side and shove my big bags under the seat between my legs. I do take my passport in my crossbody bag because being a New Yorker I don’t have a drivers license but it’s in a locked compartment in my crossbody bag that never leaves my stomach. I also have a big backpack with an extra sweater and my water bottle and trash bag to act as a decoy and I don’t mind if it gets stolen but it never has. One piece of advice. You can use the pickpockets’ strategy and hang a coat over your arm or your lap if you want to hide what you don’t want stolen.
We love your videos! Earlier this year you mentioned that you were going to do a series where you explore each neighborhood and talk about specific things to do, restaurants, etc.. for that neighborhood. You did one for St. Germain but never did anymore since. I would love for you to do more of that series!
Mr & Mrs. Dupont You have a terrific channel. I am planning to return to France next year. It’s been 18 years since last visiting. Although I want to spend more time in different regions I am incorporating 3 days in Paris to shop (been to Paris many times). I value and appreciate your advice! For me this is a wonderful “heads up”. Thank you and God Bless! Katherine B Tioga, Texas
I live in Paris. I had a gf from NYC. We disagreed on how to navigate public transport. In Paris I'm eyes up, looking around; if you think someone is sketchy, look them in the eyes - they're less likely to act if you think you've clocked them. She was more eyes down, going from A to B, make no eye contact. I'm aware that she is a girl and I'm a guy, but in Paris I recommend tourists to be discreet, have a plan for your trip and even if you're lost just look like you know where you're going.
funny you say that. im from nyc and now live in europe. i too brought over my keeping eyes down everywhere as well. ..making eye contact with the wrong people in ny metro can start something negative. eyes down is minding your business and keeping peace. I have noticed in paris people are observant of each other and i like that. ive adjusted, haha.
Great advice. I carry a cross-body bag (Baggallini) with lots of pockets. It is always in front of me. The slim zippered “wallet” with some carry-around cash and one credit card is fastened to the inside of the purse with a strap, so when I take it out it’s not loose. I also carry on my arm a tote bag for anything extra I might need or buy at a market. Just got back from Paris a few days ago. I noticed the “survey girls” are out in force. I almost wore out my hand waving them off. They appear to be working solo now rather than coming at you in twos and threes, but I suspect their partners are nearby. Saw one tourist actually engaging with one and appearing to give her money.
Hi guys, love your videos. I'm thinking of going to Paris for Christmas. Where do you suggest for a totally safe stay, perhaps taking in a Christmas market? safe, safe and calm. Merci beaucoup.
Two words………Cargo Pants. Every pocket has a zipper and they’re all in front. Phone, a few Euros and a couple of cards zipped tight. I know nothing is perfect, but I’m pretty confident in a crowded metro.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for your videos, we just returned from France last night and had a wonderful time and your videos were incredibly helpful. Thank you! Thank you!
Great advice. I had decided not to carry any cash or cards on my last visit to Paris -- just my phone with Apple Pay, and a backup phone at the hotel. Carrying less valuables means you have less things to worry about and can focus your attention to guarding your phone. I didn't encounter any places that rejected contactless payment.
Et ces conseils sont bons à connaître pour tous les français de province !! Souvent tout aussi naïfs que les touristes étrangers !! Merci pour votre chaine elle est extra !
Love you guys!!! Purchased pacsafe backpack for the recent Paris/London trip and felt more secured traveling around... I always carry a water bottle 😂 i love my water 😅 subways can get warm!! For phones i used a cross my body strap that was really helpful and wore it inside my jkt But yes always be self aware when traveling!!
Pickpockets ARE EVERY WHERE including all Major Cities across the world! I always find it fascinating when I see posts on travel forums saying "I feel safer to carry my passport with me than to leave it in the hotel safe" . In Europe you don't need to show your passport to gain entry into museums etc
Great video. Ill be honest ive been traveling to Europe for the past 2 years and i just came back from paris last month. And yes i can say thats my worst fear. So far ive been successful against pickpockets. But all the tips you both laid ive been practicing forever!! I never ever carry my passport with me its always in the safe in my hotel. Also i never ever carry all my cash. I personally dont understand why people continue to do this. Especially when you have a safe available to you at the hotel. Its so risky. Thank you for continuing to spread the word on how to keep safe.
I have had no problem in Paris. However, I am careful always. In Bilbao, some kids looked suspicious and one grabbed my phone out of my jacket pocket. Luckily, some locals saw and got it back for me. Watch your phones. I heard, in Amsterdam, people had them taken out of their hands while they were shooting a photo.
It may be useful to mention that there are lots of pickpockets in Paris buses too, especially on some lines at peak hours. Line 47 for instance is a mess and has frequent thieves. They often operate when you're just about to exit the bus.
After the first week or so, I felt safer in the Parisian metro than on public transit in big Californian cities, especially after dark. The crime in Paris seems quieter and farther from tourist areas. Even Barbes has nothing on Civic Center in San Francisco. Be mindful and stay safe!
My sister just went on a Rick Steves tour in Paris, and 2 out of the 10 people were pick-pocketed. They were warned, and still got taken... It happened on the train.
I watched Les Frenchies videos to prep for my 1st trip to Paris (end aug-sept 2024)...Thanks to the videos, I made a great itinerary and forewarned my friends about "Pickpocketing". They promptly bot crossbody handbags...but I didnt. And Day 2, my wallet was taken. Pls take this video seriously...is all I can say. Thankyou Les Frenchies for the forewarning! Loved all your videos and thanks to the both of you, our Paris trip was a success. And yes, agree with you both--Angelina is overrated :)
You posted yesterday and said you would put a link in regarding "what to pack" referring to your 25 trips to the US in the last three years. Where can I locate this list? I was in Paris for the sixth time in May and am returning in December! Love the city
Recently Visited Paris , your earlier videos helped a lot to navigate metros and RER trains , plan attractions, getting museum pass , to choose where to stay in Paris ( arrondissement) etc, many thanks 🎉, it literally helped a lot What I learnt Paris people are awesome , helpful when we ask for any query even though English is only understandable for most , In one place at 8 pm when we walked for a while towards our hotel in la Marais after the day trip visiting attractions, I was approached by a hooded teenager may be / guy , smoking and asking me something in French , I immediately at once recognized I may be looted since that spot was pitch dark I was looking my iPhone to find my exact way to hotel since we got down in a wrong stop in RATP bus , they may have noted this Ran with my kid to a nearest shop , he followed us for a minute and then disappeared Other than this 1 single incident in those 4 days , rest of time are excellent, Parisians have a put a great effort to protect / preserve their historical sculpture, paintings , their history in many museums like cluny, louvre etc I love this culture and history and the hospitality of parisians Look forward to visit may be in a year or 2 Merci and regards
Do you have advice for if you want to take photos in Paris with your phone? It’s such a beautiful city with lots of photo op. How can you protect your phone and yet still take photos and videos for your memories? I haven’t seen a video about that yet, and I would love to see one from you two wonderful people.
I put my phone on a crossbody type sash, wore a thin boyfriend shirt over it. The sash was long enough that I could still slip it into my front pocket and could take pix. It was Gr8! Also used Lime bike in Paris and Nice- phone went cross body, google maps in one earbud and I knew where to go via google maps. Here’s the one I got: Smartphone OUTXE Phone Lanyard. I like that the strap was flat, not a round cord that would dig into my shoulder
Me and my family were in Paris for the first time last week. I watched your videos about how to avoid getting pickpocketed and thankfully we didn't run into any of them. I bought my family and myself theft-proof bags and had our phones attached to a sling. I was looking out for suspicious people while on the train or the platform. And we looked over each other's shoulders while wandering on the streets. The only bad experience I had was the urine stench in the metro. Sometimes it could be unbearable
When I travel I wear a sports vest with many zippered pockets and keep the most valuable stuff in the zippered pockets, especially on the inside. I also use a sling bag exactly because I can swing it around and clutch it if I'm in a risky place. I've only been pickpocketed once - in Rome - on the infamous 42 bus. I don't buy Apple products as a rule exactly because they're massively overvalued. A cheap Android phone gives you 95% at 25% the price, so it someone lifts it, you can remote lock it or even wipe it, so it's not as big a loss. In fact, because they're so much cheaper (and lighter, oddly) I can buy two and put a travel eSIM in one and use it as my 'on the street phone' when I travel and keep my main phone safe.
Thank you for the helpful information. We're travelling with kids and definitely going to travel by taxi where we can. Do you recommend a particular taxi company from the airport?
This happened two weeks ago at Nation Station in Paris. While we were entering the train, a guy in front of me dropped his earphones. He bumped into me intentionally, and while I was trying to help him pick them up, his friend who is behind me slipped his hand into my pocket. He was trying to steal the 400 euros I had in my pocket. Immediately, I recognized what he was doing, so I grabbed his hand. He ran away quickly with his friend.
Being buried in the Metro for a short stay is silly - spring for a taxi/uber/car and see the City whilst going from A to B - and Google translate with your driver to ask them about their life
Wife and I were on foot in Rome near the Coliseum wearing backpacks (20 years ago). Suddenly the group of 5-6 children came up from behind us shouting & laughing but they mobbed us asking for change. Our instincts kicked in and we ran, out running them. When we stopped, my wife's back pack had the zipper pulled open. They didn't get anything, but it was close. Lesson learned.
Just been pickpocketed in the arrivals hall in Cape Town. What a welcome to my home country for a visit! Previous time attacked by a gang in the early hours in a guesthouse in a safe area...Enough is enough...Goodbye!
Good tips, good for any destination really. I have a money belt, that looks like a regular leather belt. You can't put a passport there, but I have some extra money there, just in case.
Money belt is #1 by far. Goes in your trousers, not just under your shirt. Parisian pickpockets are highly skilled. They’re in every major tourist city: Rome, Prague, Barcelona. There are many many places in France that lower your risk at being pickpocketed. After you put the Paris check in the box, Try Annecy, Beaune, Arcachon, Chablis, Strasbourg. So many places that are less worrisome. Not to suggest that you let your guard down, but I’m much less concerned about getting ripped off in Beaune than Paris.
I have a request please can you make a video of from where to catch the Uber or Bolt from CDG airport…. We had a couple of drivers pestering us to take their cabs and it was scary … we finally took the overpriced taxi … The lift shows the sign to go but when we enter no mention of which floor 😢
Come to Sydney, Australia. You don’t have pickpockets, you can carry a backpack, you need to carry a water bottle and you don’t need to tip. I, too, was pickpocketed in Paris. If I was a little bit faster, the guy would have lost his arm.
Pick carry items e.g. a sling or money belt that conceals the zips. Close the zip to the compartment you want to protect then pin the zip to the carry item. Thieves can’t see that you’ve added the extra layer of security and won’t be expecting it. If you have to carry cash notes, don’t have it in a clip or folded as a single item. Disperse the cash, scrunch some, dig into corners of the carry item, do what you like just make it a ‘lucky dip’ for the thief. Nothing will tick them off more.
Taxi drivers are becoming increasingly bolder in stealing things. I had a taxi driver drive away with my suitcases. Then another taxi driver came later with my luggage wanting “finders fees”. I know a tourist who put expensive bags in the taxi trunk. A motorcyclist came up behind the taxi. The driver popped the trunk. The guy on the motorcycle stole their bags. While your disguising the trains changing trains in stations can be a bigger place for pickpockets. Chatalet and the major train stations like Gare de Nord can be an easy place to be pick pocketed.
Exactly! Stop bringing all these bad american habits to Europe! Keep that tipping nonsense, junk food, lack of awareness for others, athleisure etc. to yourselves!
Excuse me, Europeans also tip..don' t think you are feeding the world with your tips ..In Europe tips are not obligatory but are appreciated...And there is no 25 % but 10 - 15% aprox or rounded up ...If someome has done a great service...
Vi todos sus videos antes de ir a Paris y agradesco cada uno de ellos pero el mejor consejo que descubrí solo es evitar el metro y usar el bus, la diferencia no es mucha y te sientes mucho mas seguro .
Although I am regular visitor to Paris, I was a pick pocket victim catching the metro while jet lagged , (arriving from a super safe country Singapore)and not having’buried’ my wallet. I now take a taxi from the airport. Use the metro when you don’t have luggage.
I posted this story on another video but this seems a more relevant one. The only tim I have been pickpocketed in my 15 trips to Europe was on the subway in Barcelona. I was prepared with my money belt and everything but I had made the mistake of hanging my expensive $300 sunglasses out of my front pants pocket (tip: never bring expensive sunglasses to Europe). At a stop two guys moved from their pole near the door to deeper in the car and as they passed me they bumped me and one snatched my glasses.However they must not have been good with their timing as the doors closed and trapped them in the car too. I quickly realized what had happened, quick enough that the thief did not have time to hide them with anything more than his hands. I probably should not have done so but I grabbed his wrist while motioning with my other hand to hand them back which he did. All the time I treated them like they were two little kids that were playing a joke on me (they were probably around 22) and they quickly exited at the next stop and all was good. I retrospect I should have brought more than one pair of cheap sunglasses, kept them in my hand and not worried if they were stolen. I have followed that advice since then and so far no one has tried to steal my cheap sunglasses.
Commuting to NYC for school pretty much prepared me for my trip to France. I travel alone. While my French is broken, it's not that hard to blend in. Travel light. Do not bring bags. Stay off your phone, and constantly scan your surroundings. I did this every time I rode the metro, and never had a problem. Even during rush hour. Thanks for the tip on not needing my passport. I always carried that on me. Now I know I do not need to when I go back. That being said, I cannot believe you are not allowed to defend yourself against a pick pocketer....If I felt someone's hands in my pocket, I would kick him in the balls, or push them away, and run. Wouldn't beat the crap out of them...just do enough to neutralize the threat and evade. Not being able to even do that, is absolutely ridiculous.
It is not worth fighting to protect what can be replaced and incur the 9:34 risk of being wounded or even killed, is not worth a life or being imprisoned.
I'm German and I recently visited Paris for the first time. As in any city, Berlin, Madrid, Paris or wherever, one should always be cautious but some of these things are ridiculous. Of course you can be on your phone in the metro and of course you can carry a refillable water bottle, as if no French person would do so?! This video should be title "How to avoid becoming a pickpocket victim as a non-european". This is probably the number 1 reason people get pickpocketed, because they are too obvious about being a tourist and having no clue.
Two weeks ago in a Paris metro just before the doors closed a young guy grabbed the phone from the hands of a young lady standing near the door. She went after him, he dropped the phone, she picked it up from the ground, the metro left without her. She had left a bag in the metro. Someone who I assume was a friend of hers took it and left the metro at the next stop. (Ok, I cannot be sure he was with her and not with the thief, but he seemed legit.) So I guess it ended well, assuming the phone case did its protective job.
Watching this scares people. We had a great experience recently ... Just be aware and careful and don't flash your money or crown jewels round, We did spot a couple of dodgy people but that was all part of being alert while still having a great time
Even Parisians who know where they are and where they are going and who use their phones on the metro have been victims of pickpockets as well, so tourists should under NO circumstances show their phones on the metro, put it back in the bag where it belongs. You shouldn't buy expensive branded phones either... They won't bother if your phone is old, outdated and crap. NEVER use pants pockets, they are much too vulnerable, especially the butt ones...
Not good advice to have ( as seen ) money belt which is just under shirt,useless for purpose if not inside trousers ( yes put up with a LITTLE inconvenience you people...transfer some in a toilet to an accessible but surrender- able wallet in advance ) ....not so hard is it :):)
Bonjour Antoine and Colleen. You just provided the pickpockets of Paris what they need to know to up their game. I can’t wait for part II. To combat them further. Thanks for all the good advice😊
Antoine's Anti-Theft Essential Gear 👉 bit.ly/AntiTheftTravelEssentials
Les Frenchies Essential Travel Gear 👉 bit.ly/LesFrenchiesTravelEssentials
To add to the advice of not confronting a pick pocket too physically when identified, teams of female pick pockets will also often have male protection in the carriage ready to intervene if need be and it won’t be obvious who is ready to step out of the crowd to back them up. We just finished a year living in Paris and saw first hand on a few occasions how it plays out. Take care people and thanks for another great video Antoine and Colleen!
After hundreds of cities visited in 4 continents, I can confirm the solid risk of pickpockets. Not just based on my own experience but also plenty of travelling family members, friends and colleagues, some places are more dangerous then others. As said in the video, put Barcelona and Rome high on the list of risky places. Paris is just a small step down, and don’t forget New York.
I avoid cash completely, except for 3 or 4 coins in case of a toilet that has no electronic gate yet. I also avoid credit cards, and I only use a debit card linked to Apple pay. I then keep my wallet and phone hidden and only use my Aplle watch. I have 2 iPhones and 2 Apple watches: the newer ones at home, and the older ones for travel. This requires some synchronisation efforts, but I found that Apple made it quite easy.
I still prefer backpacks, but I go for a small one and it will contain some rainprotection or foldable umbrella, a guidebook, a small powerbank, hand sanitation gel, some tissues, basic medication in case of pain, cramps or diarrhea, a pen and paper. A phone charging cable, some sunscreen or other cream, a comb, a spare folded plastic bag, a simple replacement shoelace, sunglasses, small nailscissors, … are in there too. The trick is to give every item its exact fixed place, so of you need something you dont need to ‘unload’ other things, or sit around with your bag open for a prolonged time. And after use I put the item back at its fixed place.
I know that modern phones are sophisticated camera with plenty of functions, and ofcourse GPS location of where the photo was made. But this requires getting the phone out way too often.
So I prefer a small very portable camera, like the Canon Poweshot G7x, that I attach to my wrist with a cord. It makes beautifull photos, it is water and dust resistant, and in my opinion thiefs are not so much interested in cameras. The camera is black but with some nail polish I gave it a used and weathered look, so it seems even less interesting for thieves.
A last tip: when travelling with a friend it is ofcourse nice to walk together and talk. But in a busy metro it is easier to find a place to sit if you accept single places. So we sit apart for short trips, and then we keep an eye on eachothers surroundings. We ofcourse decided before exactly where to get of, eliminating discussions or getting out maps or guidebooks.
Excellent advice all round & as you say we have exactly the same issues in the UK in our smaller cities & some large towns even, not only London. As you suggest I have had scanned copies of my passport & driver's licence etc. on my phone for many years & even if I lose that it's on the cloud. As we visit mainly in the autumn my wife always puts her bag under her coat when we are on the Metro.
good plan!!
You always have great recommendations and give great advise!
Thanks so much!
I always travel alone and I am very fortunate that I have not been pick pocketed so far. I sadly this last time in Paris got scammed by a fake cab. He charged me 150 euros to go 3-4 miles. I told him I didn't have it. He got 100 out of me and thankfully I got my luggage back . He was in taxi stand so I sadly assumed he was real. Very good video and excellent advise.
Bonjour Colleen & Antoine! I just returned from 10 blissful (if remarkably WET) days in Paris & Normandy, & I was shocked at the number of my fellow travelers walking around with big purses, backpacks, or wallets & phones in easy to snatch pockets. I don’t use a money belt but a small crossbody sling w/“locking zippers” that I can wear under my jacket & holds a tiny RFID wallet, coins, a lipgloss, hand sanitizing wipes & my phone pretty securely. After living in NYC & riding the subways for over 50 years, I KNOW that I look & sound like a tourist in Europe, but that’s no reason to make it easy for thieves.
And yes, I have scanned copies of my documents printed & in the Cloud.
Excellent advice as always: merci beaucoup! ❤🇫🇷❤
Great idea on wearing the cross-body sling, Robin.
@@heleneg525Merci!
Awesome, thank you!!
A huge thank you. We took our bucket list Europe trip last month. We watched your videos before we left. We took the Eurostar to Paris and transfered to Lazare and onto Caen. We did it like locals! We had all the apps required to buy tickets and get rental cars etc. Thanks for the education
you are very welcome!!
Great tips! The only thing I would add is that my Parisian girlfriends carry (cloth) totes instead of purses to deter pickpockets. The reason this works is that pickpockets do not want to have to dig deeply into a big bag and rummage around to find things. You will see women carrying totes everywhere. During my two-month stays in Paris every year, I always carry a tote and have it over my shoulder; then when I’m on the metro, I move it in front of me and look pretty fierce. I have never had any problems (over the decades) on the Paris Metro.
All good tips. I once caught a pickpocket in an elevator in Galleries Lafayette trying to reach his hand in a couple's Chanel shopping bag.
The shopping bag says it all... attractive to a villian
@@gram1608 yes
I was a victim at the subway in Paris many years ago. Two guys simulated a discussion, one pushed the other, the pushed one bumped into me. My wallet was gone. It all happened the moment the doors of the car opened, I went inside and they stayed on the plataform "arguing". I had about 100 euros and a credit card, they did $10.000 shopping on it in about 15 minutes before I could report the CC operator. Thank God insurance covered it.
they are very slick
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…you two make the best damn videos…period. I just wish more people would view them and take your sage advice. Please keep making these informative videos. Thanks 🥂
PS: Since 1972, I’m 4 and 0 against pickpockets.
Thank you so much Mike!!
I can concur..so far 5-0 against pickpockets since 2022. 😂
Superb information, Colleen and Antoine. You know I have travelled extensively and have Paris on the list using your videos for suggestions and recommendations which are invaluable! May I add: I make 2 copies of my Passport before I leave home. I carry a copy of my Passport with me and my original is in the safe in my room. I never ever carry my original Passport with me unless it is required -- and that has never happened. BTW: plenty of pickpockets here in NYC as well so your suggestions apply here as well! Many thanks as always !
Thank you, great tip!!
Great video and great advice even when just traveling in one's own country. ❤❤👏👏
"Antoine and I stand face to face and watch each other's backs." Too funny.
😂
Great advice. I’d be interested in a video about taxis & Uber in Paris. I’m married to a Parisian, but like you, he’s lived in the US for decades. We were in Paris last May for the 1st time in years since the 🇫🇷 family mostly lives on the Côte d’Azur now. We didn’t want to haul luggage around on the Metro so we took an Uber from the app on our US phones. It was more expensive, I think than in the US.
I remember years ago in Paris that we could only catch taxis at taxi stands in Paris. Is that still true? Are taxis cheaper than Uber? Thanks.
Use the G7 taxi app. Better than Uber. Taxis can drive in bus lanes and rates are regulated.
Did you watch this one by any chance? th-cam.com/video/8RmNz_jVJgo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=8MjlKCGhP-krzT2F
Slings are great. I use one in my everyday life and it's where my wallet goes now instead of my pants pocket. The key elements - strong zippers, a strap that is hard to detach, and a zipper pouch that goes up against your body.
slings are life savers!!
I look forward to your videos every Saturday!
Yay! Thank you!
Good advice. Best advice I was given was to avoid big crowds but also avoid areas totally absent of people. Tourists have a big advantage in the metro because they can usually avoid the morning and evening rush hours when it’s most crowded but the locals can’t. I do sit near the door but I’ve found that I can protect my crossbody with my arms keeping my elbows firmly at my side and shove my big bags under the seat between my legs. I do take my passport in my crossbody bag because being a New Yorker I don’t have a drivers license but it’s in a locked compartment in my crossbody bag that never leaves my stomach.
I also have a big backpack with an extra sweater and my water bottle and trash bag to act as a decoy and I don’t mind if it gets stolen but it never has.
One piece of advice. You can use the pickpockets’ strategy and hang a coat over your arm or your lap if you want to hide what you don’t want stolen.
Thank you for the video ! 👍❤
It's useful for everyone, not just for tourists !
We love your videos! Earlier this year you mentioned that you were going to do a series where you explore each neighborhood and talk about specific things to do, restaurants, etc.. for that neighborhood. You did one for St. Germain but never did anymore since. I would love for you to do more of that series!
We will! we had other priorities to get done but we're still planning on doing those videos
Love your channel! Hope you can post a video of how you pack your luggage for short and long term trips.
Thank you! Will do!
Mr & Mrs. Dupont
You have a terrific channel. I am planning to return to France next year. It’s been 18 years since last visiting.
Although I want to spend more time in different regions I am incorporating 3 days in Paris to shop (been to Paris many times).
I value and appreciate your advice! For me this is a wonderful “heads up”.
Thank you and God Bless!
Katherine B
Tioga, Texas
I live in Paris. I had a gf from NYC. We disagreed on how to navigate public transport. In Paris I'm eyes up, looking around; if you think someone is sketchy, look them in the eyes - they're less likely to act if you think you've clocked them. She was more eyes down, going from A to B, make no eye contact. I'm aware that she is a girl and I'm a guy, but in Paris I recommend tourists to be discreet, have a plan for your trip and even if you're lost just look like you know where you're going.
funny you say that. im from nyc and now live in europe. i too brought over my keeping eyes down everywhere as well.
..making eye contact with the wrong people in ny metro can start something negative. eyes down is minding your business and keeping peace.
I have noticed in paris people are observant of each other and i like that. ive adjusted, haha.
Thank you, it is very useful.
Great advice.
I carry a cross-body bag (Baggallini) with lots of pockets. It is always in front of me. The slim zippered “wallet” with some carry-around cash and one credit card is fastened to the inside of the purse with a strap, so when I take it out it’s not loose. I also carry on my arm a tote bag for anything extra I might need or buy at a market.
Just got back from Paris a few days ago. I noticed the “survey girls” are out in force. I almost wore out my hand waving them off. They appear to be working solo now rather than coming at you in twos and threes, but I suspect their partners are nearby. Saw one tourist actually engaging with one and appearing to give her money.
Thanks for that heads up!
Hi guys, love your videos. I'm thinking of going to Paris for Christmas. Where do you suggest for a totally safe stay, perhaps taking in a Christmas market? safe, safe and calm. Merci beaucoup.
Two words………Cargo Pants. Every pocket has a zipper and they’re all in front. Phone, a few Euros and a couple of cards zipped tight. I know nothing is perfect, but I’m pretty confident in a crowded metro.
Good plan!!
Two words about cargo pants: American Tourist
I just wanted to say thank you so much for your videos, we just returned from France last night and had a wonderful time and your videos were incredibly helpful. Thank you! Thank you!
Great advice. I had decided not to carry any cash or cards on my last visit to Paris -- just my phone with Apple Pay, and a backup phone at the hotel. Carrying less valuables means you have less things to worry about and can focus your attention to guarding your phone. I didn't encounter any places that rejected contactless payment.
Thanks for sharing!
Et ces conseils sont bons à connaître pour tous les français de province !! Souvent tout aussi naïfs que les touristes étrangers !! Merci pour votre chaine elle est extra !
All of this is sage advice.
Thank you 😁
Great and detailed advice. Thank you!
Love you guys!!!
Purchased pacsafe backpack for the recent Paris/London trip and felt more secured traveling around...
I always carry a water bottle 😂 i love my water 😅 subways can get warm!!
For phones i used a cross my body strap that was really helpful and wore it inside my jkt
But yes always be self aware when traveling!!
small water bottle is fine, I was referring to the giant water containers some people carry with them
Thank you very much.
You are welcome!
Pickpockets ARE EVERY WHERE including all Major Cities across the world! I always find it fascinating when I see posts on travel forums saying "I feel safer to carry my passport with me than to leave it in the hotel safe" . In Europe you don't need to show your passport to gain entry into museums etc
Great video. Ill be honest ive been traveling to Europe for the past 2 years and i just came back from paris last month. And yes i can say thats my worst fear. So far ive been successful against pickpockets. But all the tips you both laid ive been practicing forever!! I never ever carry my passport with me its always in the safe in my hotel. Also i never ever carry all my cash. I personally dont understand why people continue to do this. Especially when you have a safe available to you at the hotel. Its so risky. Thank you for continuing to spread the word on how to keep safe.
Thank you - very helpful!
Merci beaucoup !
2:43 this isnt the Grand Canyon. 😂😂😂 you are so right ... and funny.
😂
I have had no problem in Paris. However, I am careful always. In Bilbao, some kids looked suspicious and one grabbed my phone out of my jacket pocket. Luckily, some locals saw and got it back for me. Watch your phones. I heard, in Amsterdam, people had them taken out of their hands while they were shooting a photo.
yes you have to be careful
It may be useful to mention that there are lots of pickpockets in Paris buses too, especially on some lines at peak hours. Line 47 for instance is a mess and has frequent thieves. They often operate when you're just about to exit the bus.
After the first week or so, I felt safer in the Parisian metro than on public transit in big Californian cities, especially after dark. The crime in Paris seems quieter and farther from tourist areas. Even Barbes has nothing on Civic Center in San Francisco. Be mindful and stay safe!
My sister just went on a Rick Steves tour in Paris, and 2 out of the 10 people were pick-pocketed. They were warned, and still got taken... It happened on the train.
Incredible, isn't it?
I watched Les Frenchies videos to prep for my 1st trip to Paris (end aug-sept 2024)...Thanks to the videos, I made a great itinerary and forewarned my friends about "Pickpocketing". They promptly bot crossbody handbags...but I didnt. And Day 2, my wallet was taken. Pls take this video seriously...is all I can say. Thankyou Les Frenchies for the forewarning! Loved all your videos and thanks to the both of you, our Paris trip was a success. And yes, agree with you both--Angelina is overrated :)
You posted yesterday and said you would put a link in regarding "what to pack" referring to your 25 trips to the US in the last three years. Where can I locate this list? I was in Paris for the sixth time in May and am returning in December! Love the city
Quick question, does pickpocketing still happen in smaller towns/cities like Orleans? Or do you still have to be equally vigilant.
It happens mostly in big cities like Paris, Lyon and Marseille. Not in smaller provincial towns.
Thank you for the excellent tips 🙏
Thanks for the info
Great information.
Recently
Visited Paris , your earlier videos helped a lot to navigate metros and RER trains , plan attractions, getting museum pass , to choose where to stay in Paris ( arrondissement) etc, many thanks 🎉, it literally helped a lot
What I learnt
Paris people are awesome , helpful when we ask for any query even though English is only understandable for most ,
In one place at 8 pm when we walked for a while towards our hotel in la Marais after the day trip visiting attractions, I was approached by a hooded teenager may be / guy , smoking and asking me something in French ,
I immediately at once recognized I may be looted since that spot was pitch dark
I was looking my iPhone to find my exact way to hotel since we got down in a wrong stop in RATP bus , they may have noted this
Ran with my kid to a nearest shop , he followed us for a minute and then disappeared
Other than this 1 single incident in those 4 days , rest of time are excellent,
Parisians have a put a great effort to protect / preserve their historical sculpture, paintings , their history in many museums like cluny, louvre etc
I love this culture and history and the hospitality of parisians
Look forward to visit may be in a year or 2
Merci and regards
Do you have advice for if you want to take photos in Paris with your phone? It’s such a beautiful city with lots of photo op. How can you protect your phone and yet still take photos and videos for your memories? I haven’t seen a video about that yet, and I would love to see one from you two wonderful people.
I put my phone on a crossbody type sash, wore a thin boyfriend shirt over it. The sash was long enough that I could still slip it into my front pocket and could take pix. It was Gr8! Also used Lime bike in Paris and Nice- phone went cross body, google maps in one earbud and I knew where to go via google maps. Here’s the one I got: Smartphone OUTXE Phone Lanyard. I like that the strap was flat, not a round cord that would dig into my shoulder
It's not as much of an issue outside. Mostly the train or Metro so they can make a quick escape right before the door closes on you
Thanks a lot ❤
You're welcome 😊
Me and my family were in Paris for the first time last week. I watched your videos about how to avoid getting pickpocketed and thankfully we didn't run into any of them.
I bought my family and myself theft-proof bags and had our phones attached to a sling. I was looking out for suspicious people while on the train or the platform. And we looked over each other's shoulders while wandering on the streets.
The only bad experience I had was the urine stench in the metro. Sometimes it could be unbearable
When I travel I wear a sports vest with many zippered pockets and keep the most valuable stuff in the zippered pockets, especially on the inside.
I also use a sling bag exactly because I can swing it around and clutch it if I'm in a risky place.
I've only been pickpocketed once - in Rome - on the infamous 42 bus.
I don't buy Apple products as a rule exactly because they're massively overvalued.
A cheap Android phone gives you 95% at 25% the price, so it someone lifts it, you can remote lock it or even wipe it, so it's not as big a loss. In fact, because they're so much cheaper (and lighter, oddly) I can buy two and put a travel eSIM in one and use it as my 'on the street phone' when I travel and keep my main phone safe.
Thanks for sharing!!
I have a lanyard for my phone. I wear it around my neck so I know people can't get it. It's also super convenient for taking pics!
Great tip!
Merci beaucoup pour l' information
Thank you for the helpful information. We're travelling with kids and definitely going to travel by taxi where we can. Do you recommend a particular taxi company from the airport?
Just go up to the Taxi line and grab the next one in queue. Make sure to watch our video on Taxi scams
This happened two weeks ago at Nation Station in Paris. While we were entering the train, a guy in front of me dropped his earphones. He bumped into me intentionally, and while I was trying to help him pick them up, his friend who is behind me slipped his hand into my pocket. He was trying to steal the 400 euros I had in my pocket. Immediately, I recognized what he was doing, so I grabbed his hand. He ran away quickly with his friend.
yes it's always a team of people, never alone
Being buried in the Metro for a short stay is silly - spring for a taxi/uber/car and see the City whilst going from A to B - and Google translate with your driver to ask them about their life
or take the bus as an alternative
What are the busy metro times? My flight arrives 7am on a Wednesday. I assume I would be best to get a taxi instead of the metro at this time?
Do you recommend a mobile phone carry case with a lanyard in the front?
Wife and I were on foot in Rome near the Coliseum wearing backpacks (20 years ago). Suddenly the group of 5-6 children came up from behind us shouting & laughing but they mobbed us asking for change. Our instincts kicked in and we ran, out running them. When we stopped, my wife's back pack had the zipper pulled open. They didn't get anything, but it was close. Lesson learned.
Just been pickpocketed in the arrivals hall in Cape Town. What a welcome to my home country for a visit! Previous time attacked by a gang in the early hours in a guesthouse in a safe area...Enough is enough...Goodbye!
jeez, that's awful
Good tips, good for any destination really. I have a money belt, that looks like a regular leather belt. You can't put a passport there, but I have some extra money there, just in case.
Great tip!
Money belt is #1 by far. Goes in your trousers, not just under your shirt. Parisian pickpockets are highly skilled. They’re in every major tourist city: Rome, Prague, Barcelona. There are many many places in France that lower your risk at being pickpocketed. After you put the Paris check in the box, Try Annecy, Beaune, Arcachon, Chablis, Strasbourg. So many places that are less worrisome. Not to suggest that you let your guard down, but I’m much less concerned about getting ripped off in Beaune than Paris.
I have a request please can you make a video of from where to catch the Uber or Bolt from CDG airport…. We had a couple of drivers pestering us to take their cabs and it was scary … we finally took the overpriced taxi …
The lift shows the sign to go but when we enter no mention of which floor 😢
Come to Sydney, Australia. You don’t have pickpockets, you can carry a backpack, you need to carry a water bottle and you don’t need to tip. I, too, was pickpocketed in Paris. If I was a little bit faster, the guy would have lost his arm.
Pick carry items e.g. a sling or money belt that conceals the zips. Close the zip to the compartment you want to protect then pin the zip to the carry item. Thieves can’t see that you’ve added the extra layer of security and won’t be expecting it. If you have to carry cash notes, don’t have it in a clip or folded as a single item. Disperse the cash, scrunch some, dig into corners of the carry item, do what you like just make it a ‘lucky dip’ for the thief. Nothing will tick them off more.
I like the video title. I'm sure that tourists with a side hustle can get many good tips here. Let's see..
I hope so too
Taxi drivers are becoming increasingly bolder in stealing things. I had a taxi driver drive away with my suitcases. Then another taxi driver came later with my luggage wanting “finders fees”. I know a tourist who put expensive bags in the taxi trunk. A motorcyclist came up behind the taxi. The driver popped the trunk. The guy on the motorcycle stole their bags. While your disguising the trains changing trains in stations can be a bigger place for pickpockets. Chatalet and the major train stations like Gare de Nord can be an easy place to be pick pocketed.
Wow...that's crazy.
DON'T TIP! Please, please, STOP spreading the toxic American tip culture!
Especially because the price includes a service charge.
The tide is turning with tips as it’s gotten out of hands. I agree with you.
Exactly! Stop bringing all these bad american habits to Europe! Keep that tipping nonsense, junk food, lack of awareness for others, athleisure etc. to yourselves!
Excuse me, Europeans also tip..don' t think you are feeding the world with your tips ..In Europe tips are not obligatory but are appreciated...And there is no 25 % but 10 - 15% aprox or rounded up ...If someome has done a great service...
You will tip and you will like it! Muuuahhhhh…jk lol
Can I take a picture of the passport infos? Does that work? Or am I dumb?
No that doesn't work, needs to be a scanned copy
@@LesFrenchiesTravel that's better I think than to lose the passport I'll keep one with me thank you for the heads up ❤️
Vi todos sus videos antes de ir a Paris y agradesco cada uno de ellos pero el mejor consejo que descubrí solo es evitar el metro y usar el bus, la diferencia no es mucha y te sientes mucho mas seguro .
Although I am regular visitor to Paris, I was a pick pocket victim catching the metro while jet lagged , (arriving from a super safe country Singapore)and not having’buried’ my wallet. I now take a taxi from the airport. Use the metro when you don’t have luggage.
Can you share the rush hour times in Paris?
7-9am and 4-7pm
I posted this story on another video but this seems a more relevant one. The only tim I have been pickpocketed in my 15 trips to Europe was on the subway in Barcelona. I was prepared with my money belt and everything but I had made the mistake of hanging my expensive $300 sunglasses out of my front pants pocket (tip: never bring expensive sunglasses to Europe). At a stop two guys moved from their pole near the door to deeper in the car and as they passed me they bumped me and one snatched my glasses.However they must not have been good with their timing as the doors closed and trapped them in the car too. I quickly realized what had happened, quick enough that the thief did not have time to hide them with anything more than his hands. I probably should not have done so but I grabbed his wrist while motioning with my other hand to hand them back which he did. All the time I treated them like they were two little kids that were playing a joke on me (they were probably around 22) and they quickly exited at the next stop and all was good. I retrospect I should have brought more than one pair of cheap sunglasses, kept them in my hand and not worried if they were stolen. I have followed that advice since then and so far no one has tried to steal my cheap sunglasses.
Commuting to NYC for school pretty much prepared me for my trip to France. I travel alone. While my French is broken, it's not that hard to blend in. Travel light. Do not bring bags. Stay off your phone, and constantly scan your surroundings. I did this every time I rode the metro, and never had a problem. Even during rush hour. Thanks for the tip on not needing my passport. I always carried that on me. Now I know I do not need to when I go back. That being said, I cannot believe you are not allowed to defend yourself against a pick pocketer....If I felt someone's hands in my pocket, I would kick him in the balls, or push them away, and run. Wouldn't beat the crap out of them...just do enough to neutralize the threat and evade. Not being able to even do that, is absolutely ridiculous.
It is not worth fighting to protect what can be replaced and incur the 9:34 risk of being wounded or even killed, is not worth a life or being imprisoned.
Love you 💕
Bonjour. Heureux de vous avoir rencontrés. Pour confirmation :"Les Enfants Rouges" 9 rue de Beauce 75003. A bientôt peut-être... Michel
I'm German and I recently visited Paris for the first time. As in any city, Berlin, Madrid, Paris or wherever, one should always be cautious but some of these things are ridiculous. Of course you can be on your phone in the metro and of course you can carry a refillable water bottle, as if no French person would do so?! This video should be title "How to avoid becoming a pickpocket victim as a non-european". This is probably the number 1 reason people get pickpocketed, because they are too obvious about being a tourist and having no clue.
Two weeks ago in a Paris metro just before the doors closed a young guy grabbed the phone from the hands of a young lady standing near the door. She went after him, he dropped the phone, she picked it up from the ground, the metro left without her. She had left a bag in the metro. Someone who I assume was a friend of hers took it and left the metro at the next stop. (Ok, I cannot be sure he was with her and not with the thief, but he seemed legit.) So I guess it ended well, assuming the phone case did its protective job.
Not only do I have a digital copy of my important papers, but also a paper copy as well.
It is okay to have a photo copy of your passport. If you are buying something where you will get VAT back you need your passport
A small bottle of water is a must for me. I don't want to buy water every time I just need a sip.
a small bottle is fine. I was referring to those large containers some people carry with them.
Watching this scares people. We had a great experience recently ... Just be aware and careful and don't flash your money or crown jewels round, We did spot a couple of dodgy people but that was all part of being alert while still having a great time
We don't want to scare, just raise awareness
by the way don’t forget that thèse pickpockets
are not french they mostly from easten europe
enjoy your visit to us
Even Parisians who know where they are and where they are going and who use their phones on the metro have been victims of pickpockets as well, so tourists should under NO circumstances show their phones on the metro, put it back in the bag where it belongs.
You shouldn't buy expensive branded phones either... They won't bother if your phone is old, outdated and crap.
NEVER use pants pockets, they are much too vulnerable, especially the butt ones...
if I scan the platform for people who look like pick-pockets then the other people might assume I am a pick-pocket😬
I’ll be in Paris this month and I’m in complete stress about these leeches in society
don't be, you just need to be aware of them, that's all
Great tips, most of them are common sense. It’s too bad that France (like so many other places in the world) protects the criminal and not the victim.
Need cash for flea markets.
true, that's one of the only spots
I was shocked to see lots of unemployment men hanging around Gard du Nord, in the day time.
Shocking and intimidating 😮
Yes, but most sell contraband cigarettes or hash. They mean no harm, but it puts me on guard too.
how bad is the crime in paris /lots of pick pockets
We have pick pocketers in Bucharest as well. I wish I didn't walk around fearing for my valuables every second of my life.
me too
Omg! That’s not how I imagine Paris! How did all the fancy dressed influencers get away from pickpockets! lol😅
they mostly lie and pretend
If it doesn't fit in the sling, don't bother to bring.
Not good advice to have ( as seen ) money belt which is just under shirt,useless for purpose if not inside trousers ( yes put up with a LITTLE inconvenience you people...transfer some in a toilet to an accessible but surrender- able wallet in advance ) ....not so hard is it :):)
👍👏🙏❤️
Bonjour Antoine and Colleen. You just provided the pickpockets of Paris what they need to know to up their game. I can’t wait for part II. To combat them further. Thanks for all the good advice😊