Is my shoulder bag safe for Paris?

Will you also be wearing a money belt?

I don't think a reinforced bag is necessary as long as you are aware of your surroundings in crowded places. I carry a regular shoulder bag myself when I'm abroad. A money belt is a necessity, though, for the bulk of your cash, credit cards, passport, etc.

Most experienced travelers keep their "trip is ruined if this is pick-pocketed" items--ATM/credit cards, large stash of cash, etc--in a money belt worn under their clothing--especially in Paris (I hate to say it, but the only place I've ever had a problem with pick-pockets was in the Paris Metro). With the money belt you can put pick-pockets completely out of your mind and then you don't need a reinforced daybag, although more than a few people here have been very happy with them but have never reported that someone tried to cut the strap of a day bag they were wearing.

Thanks for the advice everyone. I will be wearing a money belt or a neck pouch under my top layer as well as my bag. Its good to know that my bag will most likely be adequate though, thank you.

I have a similar bag that I wear across the chest--so that no one can just slip it off my shoulder. I've never had a problem. I use it for tour books, city maps, snacks, etc.--nothing of value. Have fun!

Marie, I use a courier type bag often, or a shoulder bag(purse to you??) with wallet, camera, drink bottle, passport...whatever. I wear it to my side, with my arm hanging over it, or hand resting on it, if I feel the need. Although actually, I must admit to being fairly casual about security, with no incidents to this point. I have it stuffed full as my carry on bag, with book, tickets and all of that extra stuff when flying. Wearing it across the shoulder/chest will help distribute the weight, and be more secure.

I traveled for 5 months using just a simple Longchamp bag, and never had a single problem. That being said I was one of those crazy people who never used a money belt either so take my advice with a grain of salt, becuase the majority of people probably fidn this strategy too risky.

No one i know would ever consider a Longchamp bag "simple"...but i understand your point..Years of travel "under my belt", but never a money belt...and i suppose i should knock on wood before the next trip into the city...There's a free expo of photos and "artifacts" of the life of Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco at the Hotel de Ville..My bag is LLBean. I've had friends who sew vests with inside pockets with Velcro closings..relatively fashionable and easy access...(NO...Not for the pick pocket...)

A wire-reinforced bag sounds like a good idea even if I don't wear shoulder bags. I preffer backpack I can lock with a small lock. However my valuable go in a pocket inside my jean coat I always wear.

Hello Everyone,
The bag I will be carrying does have lockable zippers, so thats a good thing. Does everyone think that a neck pouch worn under my top layer will be ok rather than a money belt as I have a fairly small frame and am not sure a money belt would be the most comfortable option.

I meant the Longchamp was simple as in, their Pleiage line, it's basic black, wipes clean and has no compartments (which can be a problem for people who like them to keep organized).

As for a neckpouch it depends on the person, and also I suppose on what your wearing. Some people don't like the feeling of the rope around thier neck, or that it makes a bulge in your clothes if your wearing a top that is fitted. If you can return the item, I suggest buying both and trying them out for an hour to see which one you prefer.