When I was at the Eiffel Tower my bag was opened by a pickpocket, but I had nothing except a bottle of water. I can imagine how disappointed the thief felt when he saw the content of my bag😂😂😂
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Go bankrupt. This is so stupid.
I work in security in a world famous museum in London, and I have to deal with victims of pickpockets on a daily basis. But unfortunately some people are easy pickings for the thieves, they especially target Japanese tourists because they know they carry large amounts of cash for some reason. A couple of days ago, a woman lost £1600 in cash from her bag. When I interviewed her, she said how could this happen in a famous museum. It just proves people are lulled into a false sense of security in certain places.
@@justinh.7846 I used to watch, and you could still find them here on youtube, those custom and border control shows. They had them for the UK, Australia, Canada, and the US, and they always show the Asian tourist with large amounts of undeclared cash.
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If your government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Go bankrupt. This is so stupid. Then what are u paid for? What exactly does your work entail? Are u there just for show? Tourists are stupid coz they got robbed by the enormous amount of pickpockets and robbers there?
We’ve been fortunate to have never experienced this by using simple precautions: use a money belt, carry bags in the front, etc. Things like this make you a harder target and pickpockets will be more likely to move on to easier prey.
Money belt? That screams tourist! Question, would you where a money belt when you are out in about at home? If the answer is , no, the why would being a tourist be any different. I know, for those who, like many in the US, who don't live in walkable cities, think they need to take extra precautions to avoid picking picketing or take the whole world with you because of lack of car, but as someone who in the US who takes public transportation and walks every day on his daily basis (i don't own a car, nor would I to expressive; tax, insurance, parking, gas) you really don't.
@@DrVVVinK If I'm wearing a money belt under my clothing, how would anyone even know? I keep some cash in my front pocket and only my cards in the belt to access when needed. I've been a lot of walkable places in the US... the difference is that I have better access to money and transportation if my cards are stolen here than if I'm overseas. Language is also a barrier: I'd be OK in France, but trying to navigate the system in Spain could be hard knowing little Spanish.
@@Bgmutza The chances of being pick pocket anywhere home or on vacation is also slim, as long as you don't make yourself a target. I have yet to be pick pocketed in my life, and I keep my bag over my shoulder, everyday on my commute, or going out for dinner or drinks, running errands, etc.
@@FSVR54 Yes, you are a tourist, but it is best not to drive attention to yourself. And, keep in mind, it's okay to look like a tourist, when people, like myself say "look like a tourist" we are talking about a specific kind of tourist, American tourist, and a specifically those Americans not from the northeast or west cost. Yes, all tourist fall for scams, get ripped off and became victims of crime but American tourist more so, because of their naivety. They tend to be go, happy, lucky, and overly friendly, trusting of everyone, and at the same time scared of every little thing (they must pack the whole world with them). It's why you never hear a New Yorker ask, when they travel to let say Texas, "how do I not look like a tourist". But when someone from Texas goes to NYC, all they want to know is how to look like a tourist, so they wouldn't get ripped off or pick pocketed.
When I sleep in airports I pull all my luggage together and tie them together and then hold the end of scarf on hand while sleeping. I use locks on backpacks. Also passport and money either under shirt or under jacket. Never be in hurry at atm or at train machine. I traveled 11 years full time and alone. Only had attempted robbery once in train Ukraine by gang. My money was hidden. Also maid stole my favorite shirt in Greece even after I told them don’t come in room. She got away with cause no camera in room.
Negate the pick pockets, buy a book bag with the zipper in the back. It’s really noticeable if someone has to touch my back to get it. I don’t like people touching me. I found it on Amazon. Know some of the language. I’m learning German and want to practice but you can scare them off when they don’t know the language. I had a child with a “survey” approach me in museum island in Berlin. I was waiting for my German friend. I must have looked English. He asked if I spoke English, in English. I said, Ich spreche kein Englisch. Es tut mir leid.” He walked away. It was a distraction that didn’t work.
Recently returned from 2 weeks in France. Your earlier videos gave us a big heads up about all this! In addition: 1) Learn how to say F*** Off! in the local language. Seriously. 2) I put a wrist strap on my cellphone to diminish chance of a run by grabbing when I have it out in public. 3) My wife added internal zip or velcro pockets to the front pockets of my slacks. Theft proof. Had to pull zipper towards me to unzip. Awkward, but worked, I guess. Also for inside coat pockets. 4) Why carry a bag full of crap with you when you are out walking around? I dont at home. Cellphone, cash, credit card. My wife would take water bottle, but I would just stop for drink if thirsty. 5) Most helpful for not being bothered... I know some Russian. When approached with some BS story in English, I replied in Russian "Im sorry, I do not speak French". Immediate situation ender.
Have travelled to 20+ countries in the last few years and in my experience two big things have helped avoid pickpockets 1. Try not to dress like a tourist...don't wear your sports jerseys or ballcaps in Europe. Making yourself not be the most obvious target goes a long way. 2. Speak some of the local language. When I've been approached by scammers or suspicious people using the local language to confidently brush them off helps a lot. Worst place I've ever been was La Rambla in Barcelona. We stayed at a hostel right off La Rambla and when coming back from clubs/bars at night couldn't walk 10 seconds without being approached. Luckily we made out unscathed.
I second this! Do as the locals do (as best you can as a non-local!) and they'll move on to the guy talking loudly, dressed in athletic wear, and with his wallet in his back pocket.
Exactly, I was telling a friend this just yesterday. Don’t dress up nice and for gods sake, leave your jersey and team ballcap at home. Nobody cares where you’re from except scammers.
@@LIBREPUB Don't dress sloppy, like you would at wal-mart either, that screams American Tourist. For guys, nice slacks or fitted jeans, nice shoes (not necessarily dress shoes, but not sneakers either), and a fitted button down or solid color fitted t-shirt, maybe a scarf
Usually I used a plastic bag from a local supermarket to carry on my stuff on , no cap, no handbag or on your front. And try to not be very slow. I did this strategy on over 30 countries around the world on different continents. And it works. Maybe on some place is hard to look like a local, but at least you could look like a expat and not a tourist.
I am a well-experienced world traveler. I had numerous experiences with these scams and pickpockets when I traveled overseas. I always put my money hidden inside my pants and shoes. Please always take your passport, credit cards, and some cash, and hide them. Keep vigilance all the time, and keep it in mind. Don't be fooled by the friendly and helpful person who meets you on the streets that you do not know them.
Your last point I never understand. It may be the New Yorker in me, but I never make conversation with strangers. Someone approaches me on the street or wherever to talk, I don't make eye contact and just keep walking, as if there is somewhere I need to be.
Last time I was in Barcelona was in 1987. I saw parked cars with signs in the window that said, "No Radio". I saw people having dinner with the car radio on the table.
Sometimes it's good to be paranoid about getting robbed, that it makes you cautious all the time. Just don't let it be a hindrance to your enjoyment. In crowded places, I always "hug" my slingbag so that pickpocketers would choose a less cautious fellow near me
I'm missing concerts/ festivals/ night clubs. Big, packed crowds with intoxicated, distracted people. And busy (shopping) streets and stores. Never leave your purse in your shopping cart!
My friend and I felt so lucky that we didn’t get any bad experience in Barcelona during our 5 day trip. We always stayed together and when one person was trying to check direction on Google map, others encircled the one and looked out for any phone robbers. I can’t say it’s fun, but it’s certainly memorable. I hope countries that rely on tourism can do more to provide a safer experience for tourists.
Another thing to add this great video. Taxi drivers want to know if you American. When they say where are you from? That means if you American you will pay higher taxi price cause apparently Americans have lots of money. I try to avoid that question. Sometimes I have locals call my taxi too. That way no one knows at time of the Price I am an American
@@bunnybubs757 I say it doesn't matter where I am from. Are you going to use this meter? Meter holds them accountable. Unless in cheap country and get good price
I had the world's worst pickpocket try to pick my pocket in Amsterdam. He was dressed like a Bolivian mountain villager and he was so bad at it that it was almost funny. You could see it coming from a mile (or kilometer) away.
I always wear a lockable backpack with slash proof straps and a RFID pocket for added security, but nothing replaces being alert at all times and avoiding problem situations. I also carry a lockable cable to securely attach my large bag if I have to leave it out of sight on trains etc. The inconvenience is a small price to pay for feeling more confident and comfortable when travelling.
I always locked the zippers of my backpack with padlocks and my valuable stuff I carry in my hip bag which I also locked with padlocks. Even the belt of it is locked with a padlock. Pickpockets don't have a change, they don't even try it because my bags are black, and the padlocks are neon pink, so you can see them from a distance. When I am sleepy in a night train, I hold my backpack in my arms with my head on it and a little blanket around me and make it a little cozy for a nice sleep in the train 😁
Was just in Nice on a tram and a boy approached my friend asking if she spoke English. A girl stood behind him. He was unintelligible and my friend did the right thing and turned her body away and protected her bag. Another onlooker was chuckling at the situation.
My wife got pickpocketed in London within 30 minutes of leaving our flat the first day. We are actually pretty well-traveled, having backpacked the world for 3 years. But she was jet lagged and, quite absentmindedly, left her iphone in the netting of her backpack. She knew almost instantaneously when it happened. They used a tag team method, so the thief handed off the phone to her accomplice. My wife had noticed that she was being trailed, confronted the thief within moments of the picking...but the loot had been handed off. Always be aware that when you are impaired--whether by jet lag or alcohol--you are more likely to have your guard down.
I was just violently mugged by a gang of 14year olds. they snatched my phone when i was holding it and then hit me when i wasnt giving it to them because i pulled harder.
@michaelz.7140 Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Let them go bankrupt. This is so stupid.
I live in Dusseldorf Germany and my roommate was pickpocketed at the main train station. Unfortunately this is happening to locals too. I'm always cautious of my belongings keeping important things as close as possible to me.
That's why I post ticket machine menus on my channel, because I am always confused with the m and people behind me will start to get nervous. So, ticket buying always happens in the hurry.
Very useful tips. Public transportation, train stations, and tourist areas with a lot of people are the worst. You have to be extra careful to avoid any robbery.
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Let them go bankrupt. This is so stupid.
Something I do is to use a small cash/card holder with a lanyard that goes around my neck to hold a small amount cash and one or two at most credit cards. Then just tuck the end with the cards into my shirt and make sure the part around the neck is not visible - what a pickpocket can’t see… Also before I leave on an overseas trip I get a few hundred of the local currency where I’m going so I can minimize (or even eliminate) trips to the ATM while on vacation.
I don't know if it was deliberate or not, but at one commercial break Mark says , "And another place you might get pickpocketed is..." and the next words and visual were "At Dominos Pizza...." Literally laughed out loud!
My husband was pickpocketed in St. Petersburg Russia, on the subway. He didn’t realize it until an hour later. In the meantime, over $7,000 was charged on his credit card. Luckily, I still had mine. Wise tip…separate credit cards, don’t have the same account numbers. We were able to continue our vacation. Since then, we are more savvy.
Buy a small travel wallet/money clip that holds the essentials, a few cards and cash. Keep it in your front pocket. Same for your phone. Use a small over the shoulder travel bag that you can keep on your front..yes a man purse. Don’t be afraid to say “no” or “get the F away from me” when approached by “friendly” people asking where you’re from or have a free “gift of friendship”.
Going to Seville and Madrid tmr, so it’s always good to see these videos. Sometimes you forget about them. Also back in the 90s my aunt had her car broken into for an empty plastic bag 😬
Excellent... just another tip: PUBLIC SHOWS. In touristic cities there will always be the magician, the dancers, the singer, when people devote all their attention while pickpockets (not necessarily related to the artists, ok) collect their belongings.
As an European, I will give you guys some tips: -Never have anything in your pockets, ever -Use bags with metal or plastic straps with nothing valuable inside -Use a moneybelt, neck pouch, shoes or anything similar -Phone should be also in a neck pouch and hidden under your shirt in crowded areas -Dont take anything out in any major crowds -Have a small lock on your bags -Use suitcase bands and tie the suitcase to your hands in a crowd -Avoid classic pickpocket places like bus ticket machines (go to the office instead or buy it online) -Don't dress like a tourist (no fanny bag or leggings instead of pants, hawaii shirts or similar stuff). -In a Museum, dont put anything valuable into a locker. Have everything on you, at all times. Otherwise its an easy situation to get robbed. -Avoid small alleys at night Metro tips: -hold the bag backwards like the Europeans do -No valuable ever in any bag -If they turn the escalator off, go away fast. Its a distraction. -Avoid full metros, take the next one instead -Don't give money to people, ever -If someone asks for directions, hold your bag tight while helping. Could be a distraction -No Louis Vuitton or Rollex etc
Great tips! We are headed over to Bar-TSCÉÉ-loona 😉, Ibiza, Tuscany and Roma next week. Sucks not to trust *anybody* but sadly that's the way things are.
When I mention things like this to people they go "Oh you're so paranoid..." Um, no. I'm a realist. One of my biggest pet peeves lately is the travel industry's insistence on going overboard with all the electronic stuff. I am not pulling out my phone to pay you. I am not pulling out my phone to show you my reservation bar code. It's that simple. iPad, laptop? Nope. That stuff is NOT going with me unless it's a staycation. I only ever had something stolen from me once at a motel and it wasn't anything of value. It was just some fancy scarves I had in a separate bag from my clothes. I knew who took it too and boy did I lay into her. I didn't get them back but by the time we were done with the confrontation scenario that lying little thing was shaking and hysterical. And the motel manager's eyes were bugging out of his head. I am not someone to mess with. Obviously I'm never going to hit someone but boy do they think I am. I will and do scream in people's faces when I know what they are attempting. I spent my younger days on the Hollywood rock-n-roll scene. I am not a delicate flower type. LOL.
I was robbed in a Porto hostel when a guy was coming around, checking into different hostels, robbing lockers, and then moving onto the next one. In a hostel, use a strong lock -- not a luggage lock -- and maybe keep your passport on your person instead of putting it in the locker.
Very useful video. But locals at a non-major tourist town....here in the USA can get pickpocketed too. Some people were shopping at a local grocery store with their purses in the shopping cart (and yes, the purses were open). They turned to look at some stuff and security camera picked up thieves picking out the wallets.
Great advice! Any quick survey of fellow travellers will show Barcelona is the worst. Tourists need to be in Barcelona-mode. Shame, as it's such a fabulous city. My top tip is don't go out and about as a tourist with your primary phone, especially if you're also using it as a camera! Get another phone for photos and leave your primary phone in the hotel safe.
Rly? Barcelona wasn’t bad went a few times nothing happened…always do the usual separate your cards and cash daily and bring a burner phone for photos and google maps
Beware of hotels with noisy air conditioners. This is not so much for the big ones (just complain or switch room) but the funky little ones, converted mansions and the like. Sometimes, the purpose of that noise, for as much as it's funny or "it's just for one night, all part of the experience) is that, while you're sleeping, people can come into your room and have a field day with your belongings and you won't hear them. My friend actually slept with his laptop and phone. He left his bait wallet on the night stand and, sure as heck, the next morning, the bait wallet was on the floor by the door. Obviously they had grabbed it, found it to be empty (Canadian Tire money, actually LOL) and left it.
All great advice. Some folks may be scared off by this and think that crime is rampant, but it is just due diligence. One place you did not mention is the overhead bin on airplanes. I suppose this goes along with your warning about trains, but for overnight flights, it is easy for someone to open the bin and take your bag or purchases out.
I almost lost my entire backpack at the train station in Brussels while I was trying to buy some food. It wasn’t even busy. My friend saw the guy casually grabbing my bag, and told him “sir, need help?”. The person stopped and kept on walking like nothing without my backpack. Nuts!
One pickpocket give away are those who stands next to a doorway facing incoming people on subways, bathrooms ... The giveaway is that they were already next to the door and they wait for people to pass through (eyeing them), and are usually last to enter the subway car or a bathroom crowd
I always turn my wallet while in my front pocket so that a pickpocket has to turn it in order to remove it. This stopped a pickpocket while on a tour outside of Barcelona
Just got my phone pick pocketed in Barcelona last week. Had my phone in my sling bag all day with a zipper, super cautious, was aware of my surroundings the whole trip.. I let my guard down for 2 minutes to go across the street from my hotel to buy food. left the sling bag in the hotel so i just put my phone in my pocket. HUGE MISTAKE. I thought, im just going across the street for 2 mins to buy food, what are the chances….. a guy bumped into me, 30 seconds later i realized my phone was gone. Don’t think for a second it wont happen to you, I knew, I was aware, and it still happened.. I was so annoyed the next day seeing so many people with their phones in there pockets. I did it for 2 mins and got robbed. NEVER keep anything in your pockets unless you have zippers, these ppl are PROS the guy didnt even break stride in his walk, i felt nothing.
Thanks for this.. so far I have been to Italy, France, and Spain and your videos have definitely helped me to be super aware of my surroundings. Knock on wood so far nothing has happened and hopefully that continues 😂 i’m usually one of those people whether in the US or abroad, the first thing I do is put all valuables in the safe. I’m actually going to Portugal in October but this time staying at an Airbnb with a friend of mine. I am honestly a little bit leery and concerned because there is no safe. My friend and I discussed getting some cheap cereal or oatmeal and using the boxes as a decoy to put our valuables in there..most importantly our passports. I can also take your suggestion of also locking up anything in the suitcase. But it’s a bit of a pain because anytime I need to take money out I’d have to unlock the suitcase. But if it keeps all my stuff safe, I will probably just deal with that. Thanks as always Mark.
I'm following such tips mostly for all my life, and this is really hard. I'm just originally from a very unhappy place where you better look broke or be robbed (
If I had not seen it, I would not have believed how bold and quick pickpockets can be in some European cities such as Barcelona. I remember seeing an elderly man as he left a corner store, arranging his stuff, his jacket open. A younger man, very well dressed just reached out as he passed and tried to extract a wallet from the older man's jacket pocket. The attempt was so smooth and quick that if I had not been looking directly at it, I would not have seen it. I have not seen theft like this in Japan but I have read about theft when someone falls asleep on a bus and their luggage is open, allowing access to valuables.
@@unclemayhem6696 WOW ... Was this in broad daylight in a touristy place? That scares me. Pickpockets is one thing but someone threatening you with a weapon to rob you is scary.
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Let them go bankrupt. This is so stupid. No wonder Spain went bankrupt.
I'm not saying everyone is a saint in Asian countries (well, specifically Singapore, Japan, and South Korea), but why do think this is a more prevalent problem in Europe as opposed to those aforementioned countries? Love your videos Mark!
Hello from France getting robbed abroad is always a big hassle, I have a friend who had her passport stolen in San Francisco the day before she returned to France it was a race against time to file a complaint with the police then go to the French consulate, fortunately there is one in this city to know that it covers 10 states, the furthest from which is Hawaii I imagine the anxiety of the French citizen to whom the same thing happens to my friend but to Honolulu!!.
6:59 Please check if the hotel safe in your room is safe. Some hotels did not change the master code, something like '000000' or '4444', you can find it online in the instruction manual. And some models have serious security flaws.
I’d echo the restaurant/cafe mention. Never put your wallet/pocketbook/phone down on the table, not even right in front of you, not even for “just a second.” They can wait for a split second when you’re distracted. Maybe even when the waiter brings you something (menus, food, etc.) and momentarily blocks your view of what you’ve left on the table in front of you. Always keep valuables in your hand (if it’s something you have to take out to use) or in a pocket that is hard to rob, like a front pocket. Also, there are pickpocket-resistant backpacks you can buy, such as the brand Travelon.
And don't think you'll outsmart the pickpockets. These are professional gangs who train and rehearse the action like stage magic. It's like playing sports first time against trained association players. There is a good basic attitude, they'll definitely prefer ppl who are distracted or even just good natured and social.
I heard in London pickpocketing is a huge problem! Back in 2019 I think I got robbed there myself, cuz I was at the Tower and left my backpack on the ground to pay for the souvenirs, when I walked out the store and after 2 minutes It stroke me that I left my backpack there. Came back and the backpack wasn’t there. It maybe that I left it somewhere else and not in that store, I really don’t remember precisely but anyways someone took it from me. Then I had to leave the Tower because I was still a kid at that time and my group was moving to a different location. Luckily, in that day there was nothing in my backpack apart from a shirt with Conor McGregor! I miss Conor but at the same time extremely lucky that didn’t put any documents in my backpack, cuz I wouldn’t be able to leave the country in that case! Would play survival mode in London waiting for the solution
Same as when you look at the NYC crime map. The highest crime rates for theft, muggings, robbery etc are in the Times Square and surrounding areas. Big crowds and distractions all around you is peak for pick pockets. Crossings are also a peak place as someone will be stood still and won't be suspicious about someone being stood right behind you.
My husband got pickpocketed in Rome on a bus a few years ago. The bus was fairly crowded already. A few guys boarded the bus using both entrances an pushing and showing the people inside, making noise and hubbub. We got off at the next stop because of it, but his wallet, which he had in his front pocket, was gone 😕
@@Kwippy Tell me, what would the people and authority of your country, which I assume is the United States, do instead? Would the people lynch them and the authorities condemn them to the electric chair? I really don't think you solved your crime problems that way. Italy is a democratic country where the rule of law is in force and, as in all democratic countries, criminals can take advantage of laws that are perhaps too permissive. In this case the pickpockets are for the vast majority immigrant minors or pregnant Roma women (yes, I mean really, they always declare themselves pregnant because they know that in this way they cannot be prosecuted), and even if the police catch them, they are shortly after released by the judicial authority.
I have nothing in my back pockets and side pockets are zippered. Most important stuff in a sling pack over the shoulder and worn on the front. Going to Europe for the 4th time this summer.
Good tips, as always. Fingers crossed, I have been lucky to not have experienced pickpockets in my travels to date. Sadly, you always have to be very aware.
I sometimes help people with the kiosks, because sometimes they are confusing and I am not from the train company, but I have fought against these kiosks a lot so I know a thing or two. And I think i have more technological understanding due to my career, because I help to program things like these kiosks.
One recommendation I have is have with you an empty wallet and put it in your pocket. That way if someone happens to steal your wallet, they’ll grab the wallet that has nothing in it.
I did something similar when I was in London. I used a second wallet and put in something in between 10-20 Pounds, and things like id, cards and the way bigger amount of money I put into a small fanny pack and wore it under my shirt. And over the shirt I wore a suit jacket. So in the inner pocket of the suit jacket would be the wallet with the small amount of money, if they manage to steal it, it's a little annoying but not too bad. And everything else was where not even I could easily access it. So if I'd need more money for something I'd use the bathroom to grab it from the fanny pack.
i try to divide my money when in a pickpocketing area so i wouldnt lose everything if something happened. so one smaller wallet in my pants for example and another in an inside pocket of a jacket i also know someone who literally caught a pickpocketers hand in their pocket 😂
Another account by a person living in Prague says this is rare. Trust me, this is not rare, it is rampant. Always be on alert, don't let yourself get isolated and don't get too drunk.
Got pick pocketed in Berlin on escalator or stairs at the subway station. Wallet and credit cards and about 100 euros lost and IDs. It was frustrating but it all worked out. Sadly police were not much help. I was just a dumb tourist. We still had a great time in Berlin and where we went in Europe after. I still was initially depressed but it all worked out. Yes we had stuff in safe so had backup.
This is warning for police in Europe! How come pickpockets can rapidly growing and no one is stop it. It’s a really embarrassing for the tourism’s image for Europe that police and government doesn’t pay attention for this! How we can enjoy the trip with a lot of worry… i’ve been traveling in Europe and Asia, sorry to say Asia is much better! You see Bali Indonesia & Thailand, they are really take care the security and comfortability of the tourist because they are living from tourism. If tourists don’t feel secure they will not come again. Sorry to say once again Europe is poor and failed to stop the pickpockets and money scam because they don’t care…..
Maybe time to invest in some microtrackers (smaller than airpods) and learn about each countries freedom fry policies and how much it takes bring some freedom fries in. I can promise you they will stop being so bold after that.
Greetings from Paris! Just keep your sh-t in your inside pockets and your bags between your legs when not walking and when walking hold them with your hand. Do that in busy touristy areas and you are 99,9% fine. Outside of that, I dont know about any pickpockets, but have a general routine. Sorry to say, but even if you are from like London or Manhattan we will see you are not from here.
Not taking anything value at the beach is common sense, but where do you put the keys of your hotel/appartment ? You are somehow forced to let them on the beach.
I would say make sure that the most accessable locations have the least valuable items. Go ahead and steal my pocket comb. For that matter if they make off with a book, a phone cable or even a phone charger, it's cheap and easy to replace.
When I was at the Eiffel Tower my bag was opened by a pickpocket, but I had nothing except a bottle of water. I can imagine how disappointed the thief felt when he saw the content of my bag😂😂😂
I had a plastic grocery bag taken. It had a half filled bottle of water and a map of the amusement park. My money was somewhere else!😊
Mark is out here spreading wisdom and saving identities. Protect this man at all costs. 👏💯
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Go bankrupt. This is so stupid.
I work in security in a world famous museum in London, and I have to deal with victims of pickpockets on a daily basis. But unfortunately some people are easy pickings for the thieves, they especially target Japanese tourists because they know they carry large amounts of cash for some reason. A couple of days ago, a woman lost £1600 in cash from her bag. When I interviewed her, she said how could this happen in a famous museum. It just proves people are lulled into a false sense of security in certain places.
Japan is largely a cashed based society as credit cards aren't used as often. It could be that she prepared extra money in hand for travel.
@@justinh.7846 I'm aware of this, and so are the pickpockets!
@@justinh.7846 I used to watch, and you could still find them here on youtube, those custom and border control shows. They had them for the UK, Australia, Canada, and the US, and they always show the Asian tourist with large amounts of undeclared cash.
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If your government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Go bankrupt. This is so stupid. Then what are u paid for? What exactly does your work entail? Are u there just for show? Tourists are stupid coz they got robbed by the enormous amount of pickpockets and robbers there?
Japanese as well as many Europeans hate credit cards
We’ve been fortunate to have never experienced this by using simple precautions: use a money belt, carry bags in the front, etc. Things like this make you a harder target and pickpockets will be more likely to move on to easier prey.
Money belt? That screams tourist! Question, would you where a money belt when you are out in about at home? If the answer is , no, the why would being a tourist be any different. I know, for those who, like many in the US, who don't live in walkable cities, think they need to take extra precautions to avoid picking picketing or take the whole world with you because of lack of car, but as someone who in the US who takes public transportation and walks every day on his daily basis (i don't own a car, nor would I to expressive; tax, insurance, parking, gas) you really don't.
@@DrVVVinK If I'm wearing a money belt under my clothing, how would anyone even know? I keep some cash in my front pocket and only my cards in the belt to access when needed.
I've been a lot of walkable places in the US... the difference is that I have better access to money and transportation if my cards are stolen here than if I'm overseas. Language is also a barrier: I'd be OK in France, but trying to navigate the system in Spain could be hard knowing little Spanish.
Screams tourist? Well that's what you are
@@Bgmutza The chances of being pick pocket anywhere home or on vacation is also slim, as long as you don't make yourself a target. I have yet to be pick pocketed in my life, and I keep my bag over my shoulder, everyday on my commute, or going out for dinner or drinks, running errands, etc.
@@FSVR54 Yes, you are a tourist, but it is best not to drive attention to yourself. And, keep in mind, it's okay to look like a tourist, when people, like myself say "look like a tourist" we are talking about a specific kind of tourist, American tourist, and a specifically those Americans not from the northeast or west cost. Yes, all tourist fall for scams, get ripped off and became victims of crime but American tourist more so, because of their naivety. They tend to be go, happy, lucky, and overly friendly, trusting of everyone, and at the same time scared of every little thing (they must pack the whole world with them). It's why you never hear a New Yorker ask, when they travel to let say Texas, "how do I not look like a tourist". But when someone from Texas goes to NYC, all they want to know is how to look like a tourist, so they wouldn't get ripped off or pick pocketed.
We got robbed on the 5th floor! They climed up the porches and our sliding glass door was open, while we were at the beach. They are not shy, either!
When I sleep in airports I pull all my luggage together and tie them together and then hold the end of scarf on hand while sleeping. I use locks on backpacks. Also passport and money either under shirt or under jacket. Never be in hurry at atm or at train machine. I traveled 11 years full time and alone. Only had attempted robbery once in train Ukraine by gang. My money was hidden. Also maid stole my favorite shirt in Greece even after I told them don’t come in room. She got away with cause no camera in room.
Negate the pick pockets, buy a book bag with the zipper in the back. It’s really noticeable if someone has to touch my back to get it. I don’t like people touching me. I found it on Amazon.
Know some of the language. I’m learning German and want to practice but you can scare them off when they don’t know the language. I had a child with a “survey” approach me in museum island in Berlin. I was waiting for my German friend. I must have looked English. He asked if I spoke English, in English. I said, Ich spreche kein Englisch. Es tut mir leid.” He walked away. It was a distraction that didn’t work.
I avoid these massive big tourist cities for the main reason that there are too much tourists. So these are added bonuses.
That's really sad. The Barrio Gótico in the city centre of Barcelona has some of the most beautiful architecture in the world.
Recently returned from 2 weeks in France. Your earlier videos gave us a big heads up about all this! In addition:
1) Learn how to say F*** Off! in the local language. Seriously.
2) I put a wrist strap on my cellphone to diminish chance of a run by grabbing when I have it out in public.
3) My wife added internal zip or velcro pockets to the front pockets of my slacks. Theft proof. Had to pull zipper towards me to unzip. Awkward, but worked, I guess. Also for inside coat pockets.
4) Why carry a bag full of crap with you when you are out walking around? I dont at home. Cellphone, cash, credit card. My wife would take water bottle, but I would just stop for drink if thirsty.
5) Most helpful for not being bothered... I know some Russian. When approached with some BS story in English, I replied in Russian "Im sorry, I do not speak French". Immediate situation ender.
Those are some excellent ideas! Thank you! The Velcro is genius!
Have travelled to 20+ countries in the last few years and in my experience two big things have helped avoid pickpockets
1. Try not to dress like a tourist...don't wear your sports jerseys or ballcaps in Europe. Making yourself not be the most obvious target goes a long way.
2. Speak some of the local language. When I've been approached by scammers or suspicious people using the local language to confidently brush them off helps a lot.
Worst place I've ever been was La Rambla in Barcelona. We stayed at a hostel right off La Rambla and when coming back from clubs/bars at night couldn't walk 10 seconds without being approached. Luckily we made out unscathed.
I second this! Do as the locals do (as best you can as a non-local!) and they'll move on to the guy talking loudly, dressed in athletic wear, and with his wallet in his back pocket.
Exactly, I was telling a friend this just yesterday. Don’t dress up nice and for gods sake, leave your jersey and team ballcap at home. Nobody cares where you’re from except scammers.
good points. But to number 2, I'll add not talking at all, not making eye contact with those who approach you, and just keep walking, also helps.
@@LIBREPUB Don't dress sloppy, like you would at wal-mart either, that screams American Tourist. For guys, nice slacks or fitted jeans, nice shoes (not necessarily dress shoes, but not sneakers either), and a fitted button down or solid color fitted t-shirt, maybe a scarf
Usually I used a plastic bag from a local supermarket to carry on my stuff on , no cap, no handbag or on your front. And try to not be very slow.
I did this strategy on over 30 countries around the world on different continents. And it works. Maybe on some place is hard to look like a local, but at least you could look like a expat and not a tourist.
I am a well-experienced world traveler. I had numerous experiences with these scams and pickpockets when I traveled overseas. I always put my money hidden inside my pants and shoes. Please always take your passport, credit cards, and some cash, and hide them. Keep vigilance all the time, and keep it in mind. Don't be fooled by the friendly and helpful person who meets you on the streets that you do not know them.
Well said
Your last point I never understand. It may be the New Yorker in me, but I never make conversation with strangers. Someone approaches me on the street or wherever to talk, I don't make eye contact and just keep walking, as if there is somewhere I need to be.
Last time I was in Barcelona was in 1987. I saw parked cars with signs in the window that said, "No Radio". I saw people having dinner with the car radio on the table.
Sometimes it's good to be paranoid about getting robbed, that it makes you cautious all the time. Just don't let it be a hindrance to your enjoyment.
In crowded places, I always "hug" my slingbag so that pickpocketers would choose a less cautious fellow near me
I'm missing concerts/ festivals/ night clubs. Big, packed crowds with intoxicated, distracted people.
And busy (shopping) streets and stores. Never leave your purse in your shopping cart!
My friend and I felt so lucky that we didn’t get any bad experience in Barcelona during our 5 day trip. We always stayed together and when one person was trying to check direction on Google map, others encircled the one and looked out for any phone robbers. I can’t say it’s fun, but it’s certainly memorable. I hope countries that rely on tourism can do more to provide a safer experience for tourists.
I wear the same clothes I wear home. Don’t buy special travel outfits, wallet in front pocket with hand. Crowded train, eyes on luggage
You want look like a tourist, your asking for trouble.
Sometimes dressing like how you would at home, would point one out as a tourist. For example adults wearing superhero t-shirts.
Another thing to add this great video. Taxi drivers want to know if you American. When they say where are you from? That means if you American you will pay higher taxi price cause apparently Americans have lots of money. I try to avoid that question. Sometimes I have locals call my taxi too. That way no one knows at time of the Price I am an American
What do you answer ? Unless you speak in the language. It might be tough
@@bunnybubs757 I say it doesn't matter where I am from. Are you going to use this meter? Meter holds them accountable. Unless in cheap country and get good price
When they find out you're American, they often take a longer Route to your Destination resulting you in paying a higher Fare.
I had the world's worst pickpocket try to pick my pocket in Amsterdam. He was dressed like a Bolivian mountain villager and he was so bad at it that it was almost funny. You could see it coming from a mile (or kilometer) away.
I always wear a lockable backpack with slash proof straps and a RFID pocket for added security, but nothing replaces being alert at all times and avoiding problem situations. I also carry a lockable cable to securely attach my large bag if I have to leave it out of sight on trains etc. The inconvenience is a small price to pay for feeling more confident and comfortable when travelling.
I always locked the zippers of my backpack with padlocks and my valuable stuff I carry in my hip bag which I also locked with padlocks. Even the belt of it is locked with a padlock. Pickpockets don't have a change, they don't even try it because my bags are black, and the padlocks are neon pink, so you can see them from a distance. When I am sleepy in a night train, I hold my backpack in my arms with my head on it and a little blanket around me and make it a little cozy for a nice sleep in the train 😁
Was just in Nice on a tram and a boy approached my friend asking if she spoke English. A girl stood behind him. He was unintelligible and my friend did the right thing and turned her body away and protected her bag. Another onlooker was chuckling at the situation.
My wife got pickpocketed in London within 30 minutes of leaving our flat the first day. We are actually pretty well-traveled, having backpacked the world for 3 years. But she was jet lagged and, quite absentmindedly, left her iphone in the netting of her backpack. She knew almost instantaneously when it happened. They used a tag team method, so the thief handed off the phone to her accomplice. My wife had noticed that she was being trailed, confronted the thief within moments of the picking...but the loot had been handed off. Always be aware that when you are impaired--whether by jet lag or alcohol--you are more likely to have your guard down.
I was just violently mugged by a gang of 14year olds. they snatched my phone when i was holding it and then hit me when i wasnt giving it to them because i pulled harder.
@@michaelz.7140 Where did this take place? This type of stuff scares me.
@michaelz.7140 Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Let them go bankrupt. This is so stupid.
I live in Dusseldorf Germany and my roommate was pickpocketed at the main train station. Unfortunately this is happening to locals too. I'm always cautious of my belongings keeping important things as close as possible to me.
That's why I post ticket machine menus on my channel, because I am always confused with the m and people behind me will start to get nervous. So, ticket buying always happens in the hurry.
This isn't just specific to travel or to Europe, this is just plain good advice for everyday.
Very useful tips. Public transportation, train stations, and tourist areas with a lot of people are the worst. You have to be extra careful to avoid any robbery.
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Let them go bankrupt. This is so stupid.
Something I do is to use a small cash/card holder with a lanyard that goes around my neck to hold a small amount cash and one or two at most credit cards. Then just tuck the end with the cards into my shirt and make sure the part around the neck is not visible - what a pickpocket can’t see…
Also before I leave on an overseas trip I get a few hundred of the local currency where I’m going so I can minimize (or even eliminate) trips to the ATM while on vacation.
I don't know if it was deliberate or not, but at one commercial break Mark says , "And another place you might get pickpocketed is..." and the next words and visual were "At Dominos Pizza...." Literally laughed out loud!
My husband was pickpocketed in St. Petersburg Russia, on the subway. He didn’t realize it until an hour later. In the meantime, over $7,000 was charged on his credit card. Luckily, I still had mine. Wise tip…separate credit cards, don’t have the same account numbers. We were able to continue our vacation. Since then, we are more savvy.
Buy a small travel wallet/money clip that holds the essentials, a few cards and cash. Keep it in your front pocket. Same for your phone. Use a small over the shoulder travel bag that you can keep on your front..yes a man purse. Don’t be afraid to say “no” or “get the F away from me” when approached by “friendly” people asking where you’re from or have a free “gift of friendship”.
Going to Seville and Madrid tmr, so it’s always good to see these videos. Sometimes you forget about them. Also back in the 90s my aunt had her car broken into for an empty plastic bag 😬
Excellent... just another tip: PUBLIC SHOWS. In touristic cities there will always be the magician, the dancers, the singer, when people devote all their attention while pickpockets (not necessarily related to the artists, ok) collect their belongings.
"not necessarily" related to the performer but certainly quite possible.
As an European, I will give you guys some tips:
-Never have anything in your pockets, ever
-Use bags with metal or plastic straps with nothing valuable inside
-Use a moneybelt, neck pouch, shoes or anything similar
-Phone should be also in a neck pouch and hidden under your shirt in crowded areas
-Dont take anything out in any major crowds
-Have a small lock on your bags
-Use suitcase bands and tie the suitcase to your hands in a crowd
-Avoid classic pickpocket places like bus ticket machines (go to the office instead or buy it online)
-Don't dress like a tourist (no fanny bag or leggings instead of pants, hawaii shirts or similar stuff).
-In a Museum, dont put anything valuable into a locker. Have everything on you, at all times. Otherwise its an easy situation to get robbed.
-Avoid small alleys at night
Metro tips:
-hold the bag backwards like the Europeans do
-No valuable ever in any bag
-If they turn the escalator off, go away fast. Its a distraction.
-Avoid full metros, take the next one instead
-Don't give money to people, ever
-If someone asks for directions, hold your bag tight while helping. Could be a distraction
-No Louis Vuitton or Rollex etc
Thank you for such good information. 😊
Great tips! We are headed over to Bar-TSCÉÉ-loona 😉, Ibiza, Tuscany and Roma next week. Sucks not to trust *anybody* but sadly that's the way things are.
When I mention things like this to people they go "Oh you're so paranoid..." Um, no. I'm a realist. One of my biggest pet peeves lately is the travel industry's insistence on going overboard with all the electronic stuff. I am not pulling out my phone to pay you. I am not pulling out my phone to show you my reservation bar code. It's that simple. iPad, laptop? Nope. That stuff is NOT going with me unless it's a staycation.
I only ever had something stolen from me once at a motel and it wasn't anything of value. It was just some fancy scarves I had in a separate bag from my clothes. I knew who took it too and boy did I lay into her. I didn't get them back but by the time we were done with the confrontation scenario that lying little thing was shaking and hysterical. And the motel manager's eyes were bugging out of his head. I am not someone to mess with.
Obviously I'm never going to hit someone but boy do they think I am. I will and do scream in people's faces when I know what they are attempting.
I spent my younger days on the Hollywood rock-n-roll scene. I am not a delicate flower type. LOL.
I was robbed in a Porto hostel when a guy was coming around, checking into different hostels, robbing lockers, and then moving onto the next one. In a hostel, use a strong lock -- not a luggage lock -- and maybe keep your passport on your person instead of putting it in the locker.
Very useful video. But locals at a non-major tourist town....here in the USA can get pickpocketed too. Some people were shopping at a local grocery store with their purses in the shopping cart (and yes, the purses were open). They turned to look at some stuff and security camera picked up thieves picking out the wallets.
Great advice!
Any quick survey of fellow travellers will show Barcelona is the worst. Tourists need to be in Barcelona-mode. Shame, as it's such a fabulous city.
My top tip is don't go out and about as a tourist with your primary phone, especially if you're also using it as a camera! Get another phone for photos and leave your primary phone in the hotel safe.
Rly? Barcelona wasn’t bad went a few times nothing happened…always do the usual separate your cards and cash daily and bring a burner phone for photos and google maps
Bingo! Same people, same places, same scams, day by day. Everyone including the police must know who is involved.
I'm scared of getting pickpocketing in Europe in the future. 😱😨😰
Beware of hotels with noisy air conditioners. This is not so much for the big ones (just complain or switch room) but the funky little ones, converted mansions and the like. Sometimes, the purpose of that noise, for as much as it's funny or "it's just for one night, all part of the experience) is that, while you're sleeping, people can come into your room and have a field day with your belongings and you won't hear them. My friend actually slept with his laptop and phone. He left his bait wallet on the night stand and, sure as heck, the next morning, the bait wallet was on the floor by the door. Obviously they had grabbed it, found it to be empty (Canadian Tire money, actually LOL) and left it.
Darn, takes the joy out of traveling
Not if you’re prepared.
Yeah pickpocking is a big problem here in Europe...
In some cities it is.
All great advice. Some folks may be scared off by this and think that crime is rampant, but it is just due diligence.
One place you did not mention is the overhead bin on airplanes. I suppose this goes along with your warning about trains, but for overnight flights, it is easy for someone to open the bin and take your bag or purchases out.
I almost lost my entire backpack at the train station in Brussels while I was trying to buy some food. It wasn’t even busy. My friend saw the guy casually grabbing my bag, and told him “sir, need help?”. The person stopped and kept on walking like nothing without my backpack. Nuts!
I would've *never* thought someone would steal prescription meds from a hotel room, at least the kind that you can't easily abuse... Wow.
These are all great tips and reminders. Thank you for making this video, Mark.
Wearing a trench coat (when it's cold of course) is a good deterrence
One pickpocket give away are those who stands next to a doorway facing incoming people on subways, bathrooms ...
The giveaway is that they were already next to the door and they wait for people to pass through (eyeing them), and are usually last to enter the subway car or a bathroom crowd
Great advice! THANK YOU.
Thanks Mark! Always good advice!
It’s important to know that the press English button is actually the flag of England. Not the US flag.
Actually it’s usually the Union Jack, that is, the flag of UK (🇬🇧), not England’s flag (🏴)
I need a laugh react for this comment. The fact that you even had to mention it!!
I never had my pockets ran or tapped yet, but have come close or so I thought
I always turn my wallet while in my front pocket so that a pickpocket has to turn it in order to remove it. This stopped a pickpocket while on a tour outside of Barcelona
Just got my phone pick pocketed in Barcelona last week. Had my phone in my sling bag all day with a zipper, super cautious, was aware of my surroundings the whole trip.. I let my guard down for 2 minutes to go across the street from my hotel to buy food. left the sling bag in the hotel so i just put my phone in my pocket. HUGE MISTAKE. I thought, im just going across the street for 2 mins to buy food, what are the chances….. a guy bumped into me, 30 seconds later i realized my phone was gone. Don’t think for a second it wont happen to you, I knew, I was aware, and it still happened.. I was so annoyed the next day seeing so many people with their phones in there pockets. I did it for 2 mins and got robbed. NEVER keep anything in your pockets unless you have zippers, these ppl are PROS the guy didnt even break stride in his walk, i felt nothing.
New phone eventually? 😅😅😅
@@AstarionWifey yea, 1350euros later
@@ChippyMac93 ( awkward pats)
Great advice Mark. You sure don’t want to be careless around big crowds.
Thanks for this.. so far I have been to Italy, France, and Spain and your videos have definitely helped me to be super aware of my surroundings. Knock on wood so far nothing has happened and hopefully that continues 😂 i’m usually one of those people whether in the US or abroad, the first thing I do is put all valuables in the safe. I’m actually going to Portugal in October but this time staying at an Airbnb with a friend of mine. I am honestly a little bit leery and concerned because there is no safe. My friend and I discussed getting some cheap cereal or oatmeal and using the boxes as a decoy to put our valuables in there..most importantly our passports. I can also take your suggestion of also locking up anything in the suitcase. But it’s a bit of a pain because anytime I need to take money out I’d have to unlock the suitcase. But if it keeps all my stuff safe, I will probably just deal with that. Thanks as always Mark.
Same could be said about locations at home. You spend much more time around your home location, and you are less concerned than on vacation
I'm following such tips mostly for all my life, and this is really hard. I'm just originally from a very unhappy place where you better look broke or be robbed (
If I had not seen it, I would not have believed how bold and quick pickpockets can be in some European cities such as Barcelona. I remember seeing an elderly man as he left a corner store, arranging his stuff, his jacket open. A younger man, very well dressed just reached out as he passed and tried to extract a wallet from the older man's jacket pocket. The attempt was so smooth and quick that if I had not been looking directly at it, I would not have seen it.
I have not seen theft like this in Japan but I have read about theft when someone falls asleep on a bus and their luggage is open, allowing access to valuables.
One of my coworkers was robbed by knifepoint in Barcelona.
@@unclemayhem6696 WOW ... Was this in broad daylight in a touristy place? That scares me. Pickpockets is one thing but someone threatening you with a weapon to rob you is scary.
@@madchatteress I don’t know what time or exactly where just that it was in that city.
Isn't it too much for tourists to take care of the safety and security of another country? If the government and police, or security, can't do much to maintain law and order of a place, then close tourism like during covid. Let them go bankrupt. This is so stupid. No wonder Spain went bankrupt.
But for the medicine, it may be cheaper to buy in Europe or other countries than whatever it cost in the USA.
Thanks!
This is sooo helpful! Thank you so much Wolter!
I'm not saying everyone is a saint in Asian countries (well, specifically Singapore, Japan, and South Korea), but why do think this is a more prevalent problem in Europe as opposed to those aforementioned countries? Love your videos Mark!
It could be that punishment in Asian countries could be severe if caught vs the slap on the wrist in European countries?
Great information, best wishes from Scotland xxx
I got pick pocketed at the mall in São Paulo
I’m an old biker chick had my wallet with the chain. I never saw who did it they got nothing😮
Prague one Of most dangerous city
Hello from France
getting robbed abroad is always a big hassle, I have a friend who had her passport stolen in San Francisco the day before she returned to France it was a race against time to file a complaint with the police then go to the French consulate, fortunately there is one in this city to know that it covers 10 states, the furthest from which is Hawaii I imagine the anxiety of the French citizen to whom the same thing happens to my friend but to Honolulu!!.
6:59 Please check if the hotel safe in your room is safe.
Some hotels did not change the master code, something like '000000' or '4444', you can find it online in the instruction manual.
And some models have serious security flaws.
I like the ones where you have to create a code like the ones on cruise ships.
Basically everywhere.
I’d echo the restaurant/cafe mention. Never put your wallet/pocketbook/phone down on the table, not even right in front of you, not even for “just a second.” They can wait for a split second when you’re distracted. Maybe even when the waiter brings you something (menus, food, etc.) and momentarily blocks your view of what you’ve left on the table in front of you. Always keep valuables in your hand (if it’s something you have to take out to use) or in a pocket that is hard to rob, like a front pocket.
Also, there are pickpocket-resistant backpacks you can buy, such as the brand Travelon.
And don't think you'll outsmart the pickpockets. These are professional gangs who train and rehearse the action like stage magic. It's like playing sports first time against trained association players. There is a good basic attitude, they'll definitely prefer ppl who are distracted or even just good natured and social.
So I’m screwed either way 😂
I heard in London pickpocketing is a huge problem! Back in 2019 I think I got robbed there myself, cuz I was at the Tower and left my backpack on the ground to pay for the souvenirs, when I walked out the store and after 2 minutes It stroke me that I left my backpack there. Came back and the backpack wasn’t there. It maybe that I left it somewhere else and not in that store, I really don’t remember precisely but anyways someone took it from me.
Then I had to leave the Tower because I was still a kid at that time and my group was moving to a different location. Luckily, in that day there was nothing in my backpack apart from a shirt with Conor McGregor!
I miss Conor but at the same time extremely lucky that didn’t put any documents in my backpack, cuz I wouldn’t be able to leave the country in that case! Would play survival mode in London waiting for the solution
Hey Mark, awesome video
I wear a pickpocket-proof vest/jacket from Scott-e-Vest. Highly recommended!
Once found an extra tenner in me shorts, will be goin back.
Same as when you look at the NYC crime map. The highest crime rates for theft, muggings, robbery etc are in the Times Square and surrounding areas. Big crowds and distractions all around you is peak for pick pockets. Crossings are also a peak place as someone will be stood still and won't be suspicious about someone being stood right behind you.
My husband got pickpocketed in Rome on a bus a few years ago. The bus was fairly crowded already. A few guys boarded the bus using both entrances an pushing and showing the people inside, making noise and hubbub. We got off at the next stop because of it, but his wallet, which he had in his front pocket, was gone 😕
At certain times of year and on some tourist bus, the pickpocket gangs outnumber the tourists. The authority and people of Rome don't care.
@@Kwippy Tell me, what would the people and authority of your country, which I assume is the United States, do instead? Would the people lynch them and the authorities condemn them to the electric chair? I really don't think you solved your crime problems that way. Italy is a democratic country where the rule of law is in force and, as in all democratic countries, criminals can take advantage of laws that are perhaps too permissive. In this case the pickpockets are for the vast majority immigrant minors or pregnant Roma women (yes, I mean really, they always declare themselves pregnant because they know that in this way they cannot be prosecuted), and even if the police catch them, they are shortly after released by the judicial authority.
I wouldn't exactly call it a "demand" for pickpockets, though.
Excellent advice 🙂
Thank you! ❤
I have nothing in my back pockets and side pockets are zippered. Most important stuff in a sling pack over the shoulder and worn on the front. Going to Europe for the 4th time this summer.
I tried a money belt. Works for cash but bent my credit card.
Good tips, as always. Fingers crossed, I have been lucky to not have experienced pickpockets in my travels to date. Sadly, you always have to be very aware.
I sometimes help people with the kiosks, because sometimes they are confusing and I am not from the train company, but I have fought against these kiosks a lot so I know a thing or two. And I think i have more technological understanding due to my career, because I help to program things like these kiosks.
I like the backpacks that can only be opened if they are off your back
One recommendation I have is have with you an empty wallet and put it in your pocket. That way if someone happens to steal your wallet, they’ll grab the wallet that has nothing in it.
I did something similar when I was in London. I used a second wallet and put in something in between 10-20 Pounds, and things like id, cards and the way bigger amount of money I put into a small fanny pack and wore it under my shirt. And over the shirt I wore a suit jacket. So in the inner pocket of the suit jacket would be the wallet with the small amount of money, if they manage to steal it, it's a little annoying but not too bad. And everything else was where not even I could easily access it. So if I'd need more money for something I'd use the bathroom to grab it from the fanny pack.
Do you recommend a cross body bag to hold your phone, wallet etc?
In kuala lumper it happened just before check in and the camera was everywhere except in the reception already $10,000/ gone.
i try to divide my money when in a pickpocketing area so i wouldnt lose everything if something happened. so one smaller wallet in my pants for example and another in an inside pocket of a jacket
i also know someone who literally caught a pickpocketers hand in their pocket 😂
Another account by a person living in Prague says this is rare. Trust me, this is not rare, it is rampant. Always be on alert, don't let yourself get isolated and don't get too drunk.
Got pick pocketed in Berlin on escalator or stairs at the subway station.
Wallet and credit cards and about 100 euros lost and IDs.
It was frustrating but it all worked out.
Sadly police were not much help.
I was just a dumb tourist.
We still had a great time in Berlin and where we went in Europe after.
I still was initially depressed but it all worked out.
Yes we had stuff in safe so had backup.
Great tips. I never travel with a backpack. I know I will be robbed. I am very careful with a crossbody bag. These predators have no shame.
This is warning for police in Europe! How come pickpockets can rapidly growing and no one is stop it. It’s a really embarrassing for the tourism’s image for Europe that police and government doesn’t pay attention for this! How we can enjoy the trip with a lot of worry… i’ve been traveling in Europe and Asia, sorry to say Asia is much better! You see Bali Indonesia & Thailand, they are really take care the security and comfortability of the tourist because they are living from tourism. If tourists don’t feel secure they will not come again. Sorry to say once again Europe is poor and failed to stop the pickpockets and money scam because they don’t care…..
Maybe time to invest in some microtrackers (smaller than airpods) and learn about each countries freedom fry policies and how much it takes bring some freedom fries in. I can promise you they will stop being so bold after that.
The ultimate defense against pickpockets, close your pockets and bags with Velcro
I think living in Mexico help me build these skills to avoid getting pickpocket 😅😂
Greetings from Paris! Just keep your sh-t in your inside pockets and your bags between your legs when not walking and when walking hold them with your hand. Do that in busy touristy areas and you are 99,9% fine. Outside of that, I dont know about any pickpockets, but have a general routine. Sorry to say, but even if you are from like London or Manhattan we will see you are not from here.
Not taking anything value at the beach is common sense, but where do you put the keys of your hotel/appartment ? You are somehow forced to let them on the beach.
I would say make sure that the most accessable locations have the least valuable items. Go ahead and steal my pocket comb. For that matter if they make off with a book, a phone cable or even a phone charger, it's cheap and easy to replace.