Avoiding Pickpockets in Europe?

[Andielouroo]

Going to Rome with the wife in a few weeks. This will be our first time in Europe and I hear horror stories about stolen passports and wallets.

Obviously situational awareness is the number 1 defense to this, but I was hoping for some advice on a decent bag whether hidden or slash proof crossbody or messenger bag, or whatever that is better than others. Bonus points if it doesn’t look stupid and more bonus points if it’s something I can actually use again after the trip.

Thanks in advance!

 

[stefan73]

Going to Rome with the wife in a few weeks. This will be our first time in Europe and I hear horror stories about stolen passports and wallets.

Obviously situational awareness is the number 1 defense to this, but I was hoping for some advice on a decent bag whether hidden or slash proof crossbody or messenger bag, or whatever that is better than others. Bonus points if it doesn’t look stupid and more bonus points if it’s something I can actually use again after the trip.

Thanks in advance!

I've been to Rome, Florence, Venice, Vicenza and never had an issue. I didn't have a bag or my little holder (when I was younger going to certain shady areas in Mexico I had a little wallet, passport holder that you could wear like a necklace under your shirt).
Just be aware of your surroundings, the horror stories are probably from people that made themselves easy targets by being oblivious to their surroundings.

Have fun, I really enjoyed it there. I stayed in a small apartment next to Campo De Fiori in Rome. They used to have really nice farmers markets there early in the morning (they probably still do). My wife was jetlagged so I would go in the morning and get some stuff to make to eat while she was still sleeping.

 

[TheHorta]

Just follow the “Three Stupids” Rule and you’ll be fine:

Don’t go stupid places with stupid people and do stupid things.

Paris is 10,000% worse than Rome, especially on the subway.

 

[gray1974]

I know it's not Europe but have spent the last month in the UK. Most of my time has been in Scotland. I have not had any problems.

 

[Redmanss]

Just follow the “Three Stupids” Rule and you’ll be fine:

Don’t go stupid places with stupid people and do stupid things.

Paris is 10,000% worse than Rome, especially on the subway.

Rome on the trains is every bit as bad as Paris. Last I was there it was before all the African illegals surge, so it was the classic Gypsy kids. Twice the wife and I had them try shit, was funny as hell watching their reaction when my wife slapped the kids hand trying to reach into her jacket pocket.

Paris same thing, I was a few steps ahead of the wife when some late teens age kids reached for my backpack, she yelled at them and they took off.

Avoid bags if you can, and if you can’t then find a sling bag, cross body carry where you can keep your hand on top of the zipper. No bag keep everything important in one front pocket and keep your hand in that pocket in the train or tight crowds. I recommend running with the card keeper type case on your phone, it and the passport in front pocket.

For the most part it’s not terrible, but absolutely don’t keep anything in your back pockets or lower jacket pockets. I ran a cross body bag in Rome and elsewhere in Europe for the big camera and never used a back pocket for my wallet.

 

[SC_Blue]

In my travels, I have found a few tips/tricks.

1. Hotel safes are all but worthless. Don't believe me? Call the front desk and tell them you forgot your code.
2. Backpacks are easy to steal. I've had it happen right in front of me without recognizing what is happening.
3. Carry a drop wallet in your front pocket. Something to throw away from yourself if you are mugged.
4. Keep photos and printouts of all essential documents. It will save your butt.
5. Keep your most important travel documents on your person. I use a small pouch that I connect to my belt and slide inside my pants. Never put anyting in your back pocket.
6. Buy travel medical insurance. Your medical insurance does not cover you outside of the CONUS.
7. J Crew sells pants/shorts with a fifth zip pocket on the right-hand side. It's terrific for keeping daily spending money.
8. Always carry several hundred dollars to convert, and never convert it at the airport. Most hotels will convert it for you. However, your ATM card will work in other countries. It's the easiest and cheapest way to get local currency.
9. Do not wear a baseball cap. It is a sure-fire way for thieves to identify Americans. Like in a crowd of thousands, the guy with a ball cap is the obvious target.

 

[stefan73]

Rome on the trains is every bit as bad as Paris. Last I was there it was before all the African illegals surge, so it was the classic Gypsy kids. Twice the wife and I had them try shit, was funny as hell watching their reaction when my wife slapped the kids hand trying to reach into her jacket pocket.

Paris same thing, I was a few steps ahead of the wife when some late teens age kids reached for my backpack, she yelled at them and they took off.

Avoid bags if you can, and if you can’t then find a sling bag, cross body carry where you can keep your hand on top of the zipper. No bag keep everything important in one front pocket and keep your hand in that pocket in the train or tight crowds. I recommend running with the card keeper type case on your phone, it and the passport in front pocket.

For the most part it’s not terrible, but absolutely don’t keep anything in your back pockets or lower jacket pockets. I ran a cross body bag in Rome and elsewhere in Europe for the big camera and never used a back pocket for my wallet.

I know in Czech we had some Romani, but they were just some little shitheads and nothing to really worry about. Just don't go to the shady underbelly of the city.

 

[Stevo86]

 

[babyguppy]

 

[Fx51LP308]

Just follow the “Three Stupids” Rule and you’ll be fine:

Don’t go stupid places with stupid people and do stupid things.

Paris is 10,000% worse than Rome, especially on the subway.

That and Spain. Be careful with things like cameras, etc. , especially in the crowds in larger cities like Madrid.

I have a jacket with zipped pockets on the inside. They'd have to unzip the jacket and then the inside pockets to get to anything. Or, I'll keep small things like keys or ca$h down my front pants pockets (i.e. jeans). THey're tight so it would be an effort to reach inside, although they could try to cut the pockets with a box cutter. But I'd see them coming.

SA is the key. I try to do my best to not be up against a crowd where things like that can happen. Yes, subways/trams/metros are difficult to negotiate. Just gotta keep up that SA.

 

[Threadcutter308]

Rome on the trains is every bit as bad as Paris. Last I was there it was before all the African illegals surge, so it was the classic Gypsy kids. Twice the wife and I had them try shit, was funny as hell watching their reaction when my wife slapped the kids hand trying to reach into her jacket pocket.

Paris same thing, I was a few steps ahead of the wife when some late teens age kids reached for my backpack, she yelled at them and they took off.

Avoid bags if you can, and if you can’t then find a sling bag, cross body carry where you can keep your hand on top of the zipper. No bag keep everything important in one front pocket and keep your hand in that pocket in the train or tight crowds. I recommend running with the card keeper type case on your phone, it and the passport in front pocket.

For the most part it’s not terrible, but absolutely don’t keep anything in your back pockets or lower jacket pockets. I ran a cross body bag in Rome and elsewhere in Europe for the big camera and never used a back pocket for my wallet.

AND...........FFS, try NOT to look like a dumb American tourist. Otherwise, you're at the top of their target list.

We made the mistake once of traveling in Europe with some "friends". They showed up at the airport with brand new huge suitcases and American flag stickers plastered all over everything they had. They were a neon sign that said "rob me".

Small bags, beat up, everything safely tucked away. Do some research on European fashion. They dress differently. You won't see any Nike's or other 'Murican brands on Europeans. Dress a little like them and you won't stand out as much. They'll look to other, easier, more naive targets.

When on trains, backs towards walls, always.

Oh, and carry a BIC ballpoint pen in your front pants pocket. Just in case........

 

[Herb Stoner]

AND...........FFS, try NOT to look like a dumb American tourist. Otherwise, you're at the top of their target list.

We made the mistake once of traveling in Europe with some "friends". They showed up at the airport with brand new huge suitcases and American flag stickers plastered all over everything they had. They were a neon sign that said "rob me".

Small bags, beat up, everything safely tucked away. Do some research on European fashion. They dress differently. You won't see any Nike's or other 'Murican brands on Europeans. Dress a little like them and you won't stand out as much. They'll look to other, easier, more naive targets.

When on trains, backs towards walls, always.

Oh, and carry a BIC ballpoint pen in your front pants pocket. Just in case........

This!

Stupid logos, T-shirts, cross body bags and other "practical" traveller BS will put a target on you.

I lived and worked in Europe for several years. I didn't have any issues but blended in better than most from the US and spoke enough local languages to be polite in most casual exchanges in stores, restaurants, and on the street. Did see pickpockets a few times - they got my boss in Prague one night when he was visiting. A couple of good looking girls approached us pretending they were looking for a good time and got a little huggy on us - or tried to. I pushed one off but the other was humping the other guy's thigh and getting fresh and he had a good laugh for a minute with her. He reached in his pocket when we got back to his hotel - his pocket cash was gone - got him for about $400.

No need to carry much local cash - a little is good but just hit an ATM for some walking around money. Your credit or debit cards work just fine at their banks and ATM machines as well as at most restaurants and stores.

Oh - and learn just a few phrases - please, thank you, hello, good bye, etc. and it will go miles in your interactions with the locals.

...and dont be so fucking loud!

 

[Threadcutter308]

This!

Stupid logos, T-shirts, cross body bags and other "practical" traveller BS will put a target on you.

I lived and worked in Europe for several years. I didn't have any issues but blended in better than most from the US and spoke enough local languages to be polite in most casual exchanges in stores, restaurants, and on the street. Did see pickpockets a few times - they got my boss in Prague one night when he was visiting. A couple of good looking girls approached us pretending they were looking for a good time and got a little huggy on us - or tried to. I pushed one off but the other was humping the other guy's thigh and getting fresh and he had a good laugh for a minute with her. He reached in his pocket when we got back to his hotel - his pocket cash was gone - got him for about $400.

No need to carry much local cash - a little is good but just hit an ATM for some walking around money. Your credit or debit cards work just fine at their banks and ATM machines as well as at most restaurants and stores.

Oh - and learn just a few phrases - please, thank you, hello, good bye, etc. and it will go miles in your interactions with the locals.

...and dont be so fucking loud!

So.........You've done this before too huh ?

Oh, and loud ? Leave that up to the Brits. They're really good at it. But seriously, don't be the loud, obnoxious American. For a lot of different reasons. Not the least of which is that if you're quiet and you blend in, you're a much smaller target.

As far as cash vs credit cards and ATM's ? A few short years ago, you'd have to call all of your credit card companies and give them "travel advice" (where you were going, when, for how long, when you're returning, etc.). Now, you can cover most of that online. We use our AMEX's a lot over there. AMEX doesn't care where in the world you are, you don't even have to notify them that you're traveling out of the country. They're the "Easy Button". ATM's are plentiful and work just like here in the states. And, pretty much all of them have "Englisch" as a language selection. Some don't, but they're not common and it's not too hard to stumble/fatfinger your way through the menu.

If using an ATM, you should have a debit card from a (your) bank that does not charge exchange rate fees. Provided that is the case, use that card to withdraw cash from the ATM in the local currency (Euros, Francs in Switzerland) and ALWAYS select the option to have YOUR banking institution handle the currency conversion cost (at no cost to you). There is very little, if any reason to use any currency converters/traders (like you see in the airports). You'll pay a hefty fee if you use them and pretty much for nothing that you can't already do yourself. We actually don't carry much cash over there, what with the easy availability of ATM's. Like here, most/many transactions are via debit or credit card. But, as I think about it, cash transactions seem to be a bit more common there, than here.

@Herb Stoner; Where'd you live over there ?

 

[Herb Stoner]

Oh, and loud ? Leave that up to the Brits. They're really good at it.

Especially in Prague. When I was there it was a common destination for a drunk weekend for a group of guys - cheap flights and cheap beer. Sort of their version of a weekend in Vegas. They were easier to spot than Americans!

 

[Threadcutter308]

Especially in Prague. When I was there it was a common destination for a drunk weekend for a group of guys - cheap flights and cheap beer. Sort of their version of a weekend in Vegas. They were easier to spot than Americans!

"Easy Jet".........We used them numerous times and they were just fine. No frills and amazing prices, but our longest flights were like 1.5 hours. We nicknamed them "Squeezy Jet". No particular reason.

 

[Herb Stoner]

"Easy Jet".........We used them numerous times and they were just fine. No frills and amazing prices, but our longest flights were like 1.5 hours. We nicknamed them "Squeezy Jet". No particular reason.

Good suggestion! Easy Jet and Ryan Air are the Southwest of Europe with good fares to just about anywhere in Europe. Go to their websites as they typically won't show up on US travel sites (Expedia, etc.).

When flying over and back DO NOT fly on a US based aircraft. You can book on United, AA, Delta, or whatever for you points / miles but look to see if the airplane is operated by the US airline or one of their European airline partners. You can buy a United ticket, for example, for a flight on Lufthansa or a Delta ticket for a KLM operated flight. A MUCH better in-flight experience which is welcomed on a long flight. Upgrade for comfort if at all possible.

Once you are there, pretty much everything is a very short flight away.

 

[Threadcutter308]

Good suggestion! Easy Jet and Ryan Air are the Southwest of Europe with good fares to just about anywhere in Europe. Go to their websites as they typically won't show up on US travel sites (Expedia, etc.).

When flying over and back DO NOT fly on a US based aircraft. You can book on United, AA, Delta, or whatever for you points / miles but look to see if the airplane is operated by the US airline or one of their European airline partners. You can buy a United ticket, for example, for a flight on Lufthansa or a Delta ticket for a KLM operated flight. A MUCH better in-flight experience which is welcomed on a long flight. Upgrade for comfort if at all possible.

Once you are there, pretty much everything is a very short flight away.

Prezactly.

We book on Delta out of Seattle, fly on KLM stock and transfer at Schiphol. From there, Prague is 1:20'ish and Zurich is right around an hour. Schiphol is a big airport, just like the other big European airports. But, Schiphol just has a much nicer vibe to it. Plus, we've gone through there so many times, getting around is second nature. And, there are nice hotels just across the street, up the covered ramp/walkway. Less than 5 minute walk and you're at your hotel. And, they're VERY quiet.

Delta/KLM "Comfort +", always. We won't pay for Business/First. Prices are ridiculous and Comfort + presses all the right buttons for us.

 

[918v]

Going to Rome with the wife in a few weeks. This will be our first time in Europe and I hear horror stories about stolen passports and wallets.

Obviously situational awareness is the number 1 defense to this, but I was hoping for some advice on a decent bag whether hidden or slash proof crossbody or messenger bag, or whatever that is better than others. Bonus points if it doesn’t look stupid and more bonus points if it’s something I can actually use again after the trip.

Thanks in advance!

My advice is go somewhere else

 

[Fx51LP308]

Good suggestion! Easy Jet and Ryan Air are the Southwest of Europe with good fares to just about anywhere in Europe. Go to their websites as they typically won't show up on US travel sites (Expedia, etc.).

When flying over and back DO NOT fly on a US based aircraft. You can book on United, AA, Delta, or whatever for you points / miles but look to see if the airplane is operated by the US airline or one of their European airline partners. You can buy a United ticket, for example, for a flight on Lufthansa or a Delta ticket for a KLM operated flight. A MUCH better in-flight experience which is welcomed on a long flight. Upgrade for comfort if at all possible.

Once you are there, pretty much everything is a very short flight away.

Or, the train system. It's not that bad, especially if you intend to stay for two or more weeks. For my very first trip to Europe some 40 years ago, I got a 15 day Eurrail Pass First class travel (for the most part) First class compartments, so you aren't all that crowded. And there are so many new options for train travel today than during the time I went. TGV's and Eurostars a plenty. Thallys, etc. I went all over Europe with it. And, generally, your train destinations will be in the center of town and not somewhere out of town (with an airport) where you have to take a train to get there.

Certainly, if you are traveling from Finland to Rome, it's worth flying. But for shorter distances (5 hours or less), I''d consider the train. My next anticipated travel to Europe will, most likely, have me arriving internationally at either Orly, or Schiphol, which I'll then follow with a train to Luxembourg, either way (about 5 hours each way for both).

And, definitely, do not fly a Main US carrier to Europe (UA, AA, Delta, etc.). If you can, fly your destination's national carrier (i.e. KLM for NL, etc.). Or, an alternative service like "La Compagnie" (all Business Class EWR--> Several European destinations) or Jet Blue "Mint." Those main US Air Carriers are the primary terrorist targets. Ask all the 9/11 victims how they know......

 

[Nik H]

Lots of good advice on how to prevent being pickpocketed. The key thing is to blend in as much as possible and only carry essentials. In all of my travels, I have only been pickpocketed once, and that was in London.

I leave my 2nd credit card, my ATM card, my driver's license, my passport, and most of the cash that I have at the hotel in their safe. I carry a little cash, my AMEX card, and my US passport card on my person in a small wallet in my front pocket. If it is stolen, I still have what I need.

 

[Maggot]

Lots of good advice on how to prevent being pickpocketed. The key thing is to blend in as much as possible and only carry essentials. In all of my travels, I have only been pickpocketed once, and that was in London.

I leave my 2nd credit card, my ATM card, my driver's license, my passport, and most of the cash that I have at the hotel in their safe. I carry a little cash, my AMEX card, and my US passport card on my person in a small wallet in my front pocket. If it is stolen, I still have what I need.

God bless Amex, they take care of their customers. I use the Hilton card and have over 500K points. Stayed at the Beverly Hilton in a pool cabana suite for 5 days for free.

The rest is good advice as well.

 

[Herb Stoner]

God bless Amex, they take care of their customers. I use the Hilton card and have over 500K points. Stayed at the Beverly Hilton in a pool cabana suite for 5 days for free.

The rest is good advice as well.

Yes - AMEX rocks! Lots of travel perks like free lounge access if you're stuck at the airport.

My daughter lost her passport in Paris when she was traveling with a group of young musicians. The was about 13 or 14 at the time and absolutely terrified she would never go home. I was in London at the time and assured her I'd pop down to Paris if needed but I called AMEX and they jumped on it. The people at AMEX helped her get through the process at the embassy and get a passport quickly. She made it to Vienna in time for one of their big performances. Also gave her some cash to cover the fees, etc. I never was billed for any of it.

She had been very careful with her passport ever since!

 

[Baron23]

passports and wallets

Just passports and wallet? Keep them in your front pocket.

 

[Zebulon]

I carry a fake wallet and fake phone

Asking for them…… to be stolen

Then

Youll
Learn the slight of hand and how it works

Try catching tjem

Watch and feel for the “bump” when they brush up
On you bump you and or try to distract you with person A, while
Person B takes the thing on a bump

Them

They get a fake Wallet with a note inside saying


You suck at pick
Pocketing

 

[diggler1833]

I just wear my tight cowboy britches, and nobody tries to dig their hands into my pockets...

Might find more than a wallet.

 

[stefan73]

This!

Stupid logos, T-shirts, cross body bags and other "practical" traveller BS will put a target on you.

I lived and worked in Europe for several years. I didn't have any issues but blended in better than most from the US and spoke enough local languages to be polite in most casual exchanges in stores, restaurants, and on the street. Did see pickpockets a few times - they got my boss in Prague one night when he was visiting. A couple of good looking girls approached us pretending they were looking for a good time and got a little huggy on us - or tried to. I pushed one off but the other was humping the other guy's thigh and getting fresh and he had a good laugh for a minute with her. He reached in his pocket when we got back to his hotel - his pocket cash was gone - got him for about $400.

No need to carry much local cash - a little is good but just hit an ATM for some walking around money. Your credit or debit cards work just fine at their banks and ATM machines as well as at most restaurants and stores.

Oh - and learn just a few phrases - please, thank you, hello, good bye, etc. and it will go miles in your interactions with the locals.

...and dont be so fucking loud!

I need to get back to Praha to pick up some swag from the CZ store there! My family is from what was Sudetenland, Goblonz about 45 minutes north of Praha/Prague. I usually fly into Munich and drive to Mettenheim to stay with my Aunt that I lived with and then travel to see my other family.

 

[stefan73]

So.........You've done this before too huh ?

Oh, and loud ? Leave that up to the Brits. They're really good at it. But seriously, don't be the loud, obnoxious American. For a lot of different reasons. Not the least of which is that if you're quiet and you blend in, you're a much smaller target.

As far as cash vs credit cards and ATM's ? A few short years ago, you'd have to call all of your credit card companies and give them "travel advice" (where you were going, when, for how long, when you're returning, etc.). Now, you can cover most of that online. We use our AMEX's a lot over there. AMEX doesn't care where in the world you are, you don't even have to notify them that you're traveling out of the country. They're the "Easy Button". ATM's are plentiful and work just like here in the states. And, pretty much all of them have "Englisch" as a language selection. Some don't, but they're not common and it's not too hard to stumble/fatfinger your way through the menu.

If using an ATM, you should have a debit card from a (your) bank that does not charge exchange rate fees. Provided that is the case, use that card to withdraw cash from the ATM in the local currency (Euros, Francs in Switzerland) and ALWAYS select the option to have YOUR banking institution handle the currency conversion cost (at no cost to you). There is very little, if any reason to use any currency converters/traders (like you see in the airports). You'll pay a hefty fee if you use them and pretty much for nothing that you can't already do yourself. We actually don't carry much cash over there, what with the easy availability of ATM's. Like here, most/many transactions are via debit or credit card. But, as I think about it, cash transactions seem to be a bit more common there, than here.

@Herb Stoner; Where'd you live over there ?

When I was visiting my uncle in Munich I heard some loud people talking, I asked my uncle what language that was and then I was able to make out a couple of words and realized they were Brits.

I did have to be the LOUD Bavarian on a flight out of Germany, "scheiss preussen".

 

[Herb Stoner]

@Herb Stoner; Where'd you live over there ?

I had company apartments in Prague and Lugano, Switzerland. The latter was one of the coolest places I've been and totally off the radar screen for most from the US. (Most Americans go to Como and turn around - missing amazing places less than 20-30 minutes away.)

My company had operations in / near Paris, London, Peterborough, Napoli, Turin, Karlsruhe, Basel, Warsaw, and a couple of other places where I spent a fair amount of time. Prior to that I did a couple of stints in Tel Aviv consulting for Israeli banks - great place!

 

[alamo5000]

Going to Rome with the wife in a few weeks. This will be our first time in Europe and I hear horror stories about stolen passports and wallets.

Obviously situational awareness is the number 1 defense to this, but I was hoping for some advice on a decent bag whether hidden or slash proof crossbody or messenger bag, or whatever that is better than others. Bonus points if it doesn’t look stupid and more bonus points if it’s something I can actually use again after the trip.

Thanks in advance!

Get several little zip up soft wallets. The company Chums makes pretty good ones. I will explain why later on.

Have a system on how you spend money and always have at least 3 methods of payment.

Cash. Put some USD and a CC in one soft wallet and put it in your front left pocket. Put Euros in another wallet and put it in your front right pocket. Have the people in your group each do the same. Nothing at all in your back pockets and no purses ever.

If you are somewhere safe that you trust you can use your CC otherwise pay cash.

Debit cards are an absolute last resort. Lock them up with your driver's license and maybe a spare CC back at the hotel. Put your passports with that stuff unless you specifically need it for something.

Whatever you do do not use any ATM on the street. Go inside or find one physically attached to a bank or something. Nothing ever on the sidewalk should ever be considered.

If you really want to go the extra mile each person can put a folded up hundred dollar bill in their shoe.

If you decide to go somewhere really effed up there are more options but for Italy just stay away from the sand N's and Africans.

 

[Herb Stoner]

Get several little zip up soft wallets. The company Chums makes pretty good ones. I will explain why later on.

Have a system on how you spend money and always have at least 3 methods of payment.

Cash. Put some USD and a CC in one soft wallet and put it in your front left pocket. Put Euros in another wallet and put it in your front right pocket. Have the people in your group each do the same. Nothing at all in your back pockets and no purses ever.

If you are somewhere safe that you trust you can use your CC otherwise pay cash.

Debit cards are an absolute last resort. Lock them up with your driver's license and maybe a spare CC back at the hotel. Put your passports with that stuff unless you specifically need it for something.

Whatever you do do not use any ATM on the street. Go inside or find one physically attached to a bank or something. Nothing ever on the sidewalk should ever be considered.

If you really want to go the extra mile each person can put a folded up hundred dollar bill in their shoe.

If you decide to go somewhere really effed up there are more options but for Italy just stay away from the sand N's and Africans.

That's some of the worst advice on Europe I've seen. The kind of BS that makes visitors targets.

They don't want or really care about USD - just grab a little local currency in case you end up somewhere that dosen't accept cards (some small shops or cafes). Banks and ATMs are fine - many of their systems are better and more secure than ours. Really, traveling there is, from a practical view, is much like traveling around the US.

 

[alamo5000]

That's some of the worst advice on Europe I've seen. The kind of BS that makes visitors targets.

They don't want or really care about USD - just grab a little local currency in case you end up somewhere that dosen't accept cards (some small shops or cafes). Banks and ATMs are fine - many of their systems are better and more secure than ours. Really, traveling there is, from a practical view, is much like traveling around the US.

I've been to somewhere north of 90 countries so you can do it your way and I will do it my way.

Not sure what the controversy is about splitting your cash up amongst several people and not carrying things in your back pockets.

 

[alamo5000]

That's some of the worst advice on Europe I've seen. The kind of BS that makes visitors targets.

They don't want or really care about USD - just grab a little local currency in case you end up somewhere that dosen't accept cards (some small shops or cafes). Banks and ATMs are fine - many of their systems are better and more secure than ours. Really, traveling there is, from a practical view, is much like traveling around the US.

As far as the banks and ATMs go, a friend got his entire life turned upside down by using an ATM on the street. It had a skimmer on it and they took full advantage of it.

All I said is to be particular about what ATM. Again, what is the controversy?

 

[Herb Stoner]

As far as the banks and ATMs go, a friend got his entire life turned upside down by using an ATM on the street. It had a skimmer on it and they took full advantage of it.

All I said is to be particular about what ATM. Again, what is the controversy?

That can happen anywhere...

 

[alamo5000]

That can happen anywhere...

And hence everyone should be careful. Especially if you are thousands of miles away from home in a different country.

Again, what is the controversy?

 

[Redmanss]

AND...........FFS, try NOT to look like a dumb American tourist. Otherwise, you're at the top of their target list.

We made the mistake once of traveling in Europe with some "friends". They showed up at the airport with brand new huge suitcases and American flag stickers plastered all over everything they had. They were a neon sign that said "rob me".

Small bags, beat up, everything safely tucked away. Do some research on European fashion. They dress differently. You won't see any Nike's or other 'Murican brands on Europeans. Dress a little like them and you won't stand out as much. They'll look to other, easier, more naive targets.

When on trains, backs towards walls, always.

Oh, and carry a BIC ballpoint pen in your front pants pocket. Just in case........

There’s zero chance of me looking like a local in southern Europe, too much Scandinavian blood in me, a red topped head taller than anyone around me and I’m not shaving for anyone. I knew I’d look like a tourist, but at least tried to look like a Eurotrash tourist. Having worked with so many of the same over the years, I had good role models to emulate.

The biggest problem is carrying a full sized camera, in my case it was a Sony RX10 with an RX100 for pocket carry. I paid a lot of money to see the places, and I’m going to have a half decent camera to shoot them. Damned if you do, damned if you don’t, so I carried it in a camera bag that had my left fist protecting the zipper and strap anytime I had anyone near me. I saw the sights, shot gigs of photos, and nobody got my shit.

Agree on no purses for the women and a solid ink stick ready and waiting, as well as a few phrases.

 

[Aftermath]

Take a piece of 550 cord. Remove one of the inner threads. Make sure it's about 6 feet long. Attach one end securely to your wallet. Tuck your wallet into your front pocket. Leave enough slack in the string that you can pull the wallet out and use it. Carefully tie one of the crochet type hitches that will just come undone as you pull on the string. This is for shortening what is left of that 6 feet of string. Now, and here is the real important part...make a loop with a slip knot on the other end. A slip knot is one that will get tighter as you tug on it. Arrange the excess string so that it will not tangle or hang up any thing. Now...very carefully attach the loop around your scrotum. Take the time to be sure both gonads are also engulfed. Tighten it just a little bit to be sure it is going to stay in place. No pickpocket is going to get your wallet without you knowing about it.

 

[Herb Stoner]

I dont know what all the fuckery is about. Going about in Europe is really not much different that going about here in the US. There are bad parts of town and good parts everywhere. Bad things can happen anywhere and, overall, Europe is no more a threatening place than the US.

If you need pouches, cords and secret pockets to go to the Piggly Wiggly for your pork and beans then by all means carry on with that nonsense in Europe.

Easy button - just use your AMEX like you would use it in the US. Mine got hit for 80 grand in fraud a few years back - they covered it promptly with no inconvenience on my end.

 

[Threadcutter308]

I just recalled what a waitress in Switzerland told me about 10, maybe 15 years ago. That is, when paying a restauraunt bill with a card, DO NOT allow the waiter/waitress take your card and scanner "into the back" to complete the transaction. ALWAYS completethe transaction with your card and the scanner AT YOUR TABLE. Once she told us that, we never had any problems. Actually, we've never been picked or robbed.

Like Herb says, it really isn't a whole lot different than here in the states. Just be vigilant, use common sense, learn to recognize locals and emulate the same things they do in regard to security.

 

[Threadcutter308]

I need to get back to Praha to pick up some swag from the CZ store there! My family is from what was Sudetenland, Goblonz about 45 minutes north of Praha/Prague. I usually fly into Munich and drive to Mettenheim to stay with my Aunt that I lived with and then travel to see my other family.

Whatever you/anyone does DO NOT take the "Delay Bahn" (Deutsch Bahn ) from Nuremberg to Prague. It sucks sweaty donkey balls. Worst train ride I've ever taken in Europe. The OBB Railjet from Vienna to Prague is the Tits though.

 

[hlee]

Just drop all of your valuables in your underwear. If they get that far, they probably earned them...

 

[91Eunozs]

Not related to pick pocketing per-se, but go in understanding that ripping off stupid tourists, especially Americans, is a national sport for most Europeans. And Italy is at the top of the list in my experience! LoL

If the menu doesn’t have prices, get it before you order. The street vendors will try to scam you, and as mentioned above, are often fronts/distractions for pock pockets.

All that said, just be alert and you’ll be fine…. And don’t live behind your camera! Take the time to look around and soak in stuff we just don’t see over here n this side of the pond.

Good luck, and have fun!

 

[Alphatreedog]

A Buddy of mine back in the day smoked . When we went to areas with street urchins he'd invert his cigarette in his fingers . Any little fuck'd try him he'd tap on the forehead with the lit end . Funnier than fuck to watch some little gypsy fuck swattin his forehead and face while squelin.
I've had 13/80's try that shit hear State side . Always carry your wallet in you front pocket . On a pack anything in a pocket you can't live without gets zip tied at the zipper . Look the usual suspects in the eye as to say " I will gut you " .
Was walking across a bridge with a lot of pedestrian traffic . Seemed like every third or fourth dickhead was shouldering into me . Got pissed and told my buddy next MF shoulders me is gettin a fuckin elbow skipped off his fuckin head ..
Guy to my left musta spoke English as he laughed . Surprisingly my anger was visible and opposing foot traffic stopped using me like a blocking dummy . Moral of the story , attitude matters .

Edit +1 on the water proof pouch on a neck lanyard under you shirt for passport and emergency cash .

 

[atomic41]

Some good advice here and some bad. Rome is crawling with pickpockets and if you pay attention to your surroundings you will see them operate. They often work as a team. If you get a small fannypack type bag and wear it cross body with the bag part on your chest or armpit, you will be fine and blend in because a lot of locals do the same thing. I would avoid a backpack.

When you go to the tourist spots and the Indian men walk around trying to sell you cold water bottles, don't fucking buy them. Those shitheads sometimes sell tapwater in used bottles. Tell them to fuck off.

Italians are cool, they are pretty chill but go from to 0-60 in a millisecond, then back to 0 just as fast. So just be cool. They like Americans for the most part as long you don't act and dress like a retard.

If you've never been to Italy, get used to almost daily strikes of workers so your train may or may not run LOL. People don't follow a schedule or rules very well and lots of things are broken and no one cares so get used it.

 

[hermosabeach]

Don't know about your spouse and group.

I'd see if they are up to watch a few videos on scams in Europe.

There is a u tube channel called Honest Guide.

Most of the scams he shows in Prague are all over EU






Not to insult anyone in the family, the weakest link gets scammed or pickpocketed.

How do you educate the rest of the team on the common scams and how scammers approach you and the group


Hit up a bank ATM for the best exchange rate if you need cash.


I spend 6 weeks in Sweden last year and 2 in South Korea this year and only used my card. The only time I needed cash was in the subway in South Korea.

I used both the Uber app and a taxi app. All taxis took cards.

 

[diggler1833]

Not related to pick pocketing per-se, but go in understanding that ripping off stupid tourists, especially Americans, is a national sport for most Europeans. And Italy is at the top of the list in my experience! LoL

If the menu doesn’t have prices, get it before you order. The street vendors will try to scam you, and as mentioned above, are often fronts/distractions for pock pockets.

All that said, just be alert and you’ll be fine…. And don’t live behind your camera! Take the time to look around and soak in stuff we just don’t see over here n this side of the pond.

Good luck, and have fun!

Italy was one of the worst experiences for me as well. Everyone wanted to 'help' you do the most basic thing... then they all held out their hand and stated that they "worked for tips". The history was cool, but the culture didn't allow the juice to be worth the squeeze. I'm sure we have cities here like that too though (can only imagine an Anglo-Saxon tourist in Atlanta).

Only the street peddlers in Cartagena were worse.

 

[MO Fugga]

I just wear my tight cowboy britches, and nobody tries to dig their hands into my pockets...

Might find more than a wallet.

Hell, I'd wear old school JNCOs and put a loaded rat trap in my back pocket.

 

[Andielouroo]

Take a piece of 550 cord. Remove one of the inner threads. Make sure it's about 6 feet long. Attach one end securely to your wallet. Tuck your wallet into your front pocket. Leave enough slack in the string that you can pull the wallet out and use it. Carefully tie one of the crochet type hitches that will just come undone as you pull on the string. This is for shortening what is left of that 6 feet of string. Now, and here is the real important part...make a loop with a slip knot on the other end. A slip knot is one that will get tighter as you tug on it. Arrange the excess string so that it will not tangle or hang up any thing. Now...very carefully attach the loop around your scrotum. Take the time to be sure both gonads are also engulfed. Tighten it just a little bit to be sure it is going to stay in place. No pickpocket is going to get your wallet without you knowing about it.

So wait, you attach only to scrotum and leave the sausage hanging over the top of the 550? I’m gonna need a picture to understand.

 

[BLEE]

Situational awareness and some common sense will keep your pockets safe. Keep your cash and cards in a small zipper pouch, in an inner pocket. I've been to Rome, Florence, Zurich, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Prague, Budapest, Cologne, Berlin, Amsterdam and some other places, I've forgotten. I felt like I was being marked a time or two, but stepped up my alert level and never had any issues. Eyes open, chin up and head on a swivel deters a lot of predators. Go and have a blast!

 

[Eostech]

Sig P320, even if they get their hands on it without you knowing there is a good chance it might get one of them.

 

[Aftermath]

So wait, you attach only to scrotum and leave the sausage hanging over the top of the 550? I’m gonna need a picture to understand.

Wait...you are ASKING for a dick pic?


FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT! FAG ALERT!