Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
really quite low in Europe, so as long as you're vigilant, you'll be safe. In this section, we'll talk
about what steps to take to avoid becoming a victim.
Limit what you carry.
Pickpockets can't steal what you don't have—simple. That is why I
prefer to carry very little while I'm sightseeing. I especially recommend not carrying a lot of
cash.
Wear a money belt.
Personally, I hate money belts, but it is one of the most secure ways to
carry valuables like extra money and your passport. However, many tourists make the mis-
take of thinking that they should use their money belt like a wallet—it isn't intended for that.
Ideally, you should keep the money and debit/credit cards that you're going to need for the
day in your wallet and then keep all extra cash and maybe a backup credit card in the money
belt. The money belt should be worn under your clothes and should be fairly inconvenient to
access (to deter thieves).
Keep wallet in front pocket.
A lot of guys keep their wallets in their back pockets, but this
is an extremely easy target for a pickpocket. This is why it is advisable to keep your wallet in
your front pocket. I highly recommend getting a super thin wallet because a bulky wallet feels
very strange in your front pocket—and it looks kind of dumb.
Keep phones off the table.
Smartphones are a super popular item for thieves to target.
Many people will simply leave it on the table while they're eating and someone can easily
come up and snatch it.
Split up your valuables.
Don't keep all your eggs in one basket. Split up your valuables so
if you are pickpocketed you'll limit the amount you've lost.
Lock it up.
Hostels are safe and I've never had any problems with theft, but it is still smart
to lock any valuables in a locker.
Secure your bag/backpack.
Your bag or backpack is probably the most vulnerable area
that pickpockets love to target. Backpacks are especially vulnerable because you can't see if
someone is trying to get into it. Here are some tips for securing your bag:
•
Wear it backwards
. When you're on crowded public transportation, a lot of people will
wear their bags backwards because it's easier to keep an eye on it.
•
Lock the zippers
. At a minimum, you'll want to lock your zippers. You don't need any-
thing fancy—a simple luggage lock will work well.
•
Sling backpack.
Sling backpacks are nice because they stay close to your body and they
can be slung over your chest easily if needed. They do tend to be small, so you'll have
trouble if you plan on carrying a lot of stuff with you.
•
Secure bag to an immovable object.
When you're at a restaurant, loop your bag's strap
around your leg or the leg of your chair so someone can't come by and swipe the bag.
Similarly, it is smart to secure your bag to a chair or luggage rack while you're on a
train—especially on overnight trains. A retractable cable lock will provide enough pro-
tection to deter most thieves.
