Theft

"Do you think it's getting worse?"I'd be surprised if anyone here has any data that would permit a meaningful answer to that question. Unsupported opinions on this subject don't help. (Everyone is entitled to their own opinions but not to their own facts.) The best single advice I've seen on this subject has been from Rick Tour of a Money Belt. He's been to Europe so often that he's seen everything. A traveler can go a few times, not wear a money belt, and get lucky. But if you make enough trips and don't wear a money belt, you're taking a chance with getting a trip ruined when you lose your ATM cards, etc.More good advice from Rick on this subject is click here.

Interestingly, the “statistics” are not as intuitive as one might think, and there’s much inconsistency among “studies” as to which European country has the highest rates of the various types of crime. For example, Britain’s Home Office reports a decrease in crime of all types from 2007-2008, but a recent Gallup/UN/EC survey indicates that the UK has one of the worst crime rates on the continent. The same report cited Denmark (really?) as one of the worst and Spain as one of the best. So, it seems impossible to remark on whether or not things are getting better or worse (as other posters have already suggested). Heed the advice already given regarding personal safety, and you’ll be fine.

I don't know if it's getting worse either. It's possible the global economy, drug addiction or open borders have created a bigger problem.

I've only lost one thing on a trip, a 35mm camera and that was years ago. I lost it on a bus in Munich during Octoberfest. I was being careless and had too much to keep track of. I honestly can't say if it was stolen or I just left it on the bus when I got off.

Since then, along with using a money belt, I only carry one item. If I'm shopping, I reduce everything to one bag. If I'm touring, I carry a daypack with no valuables in it. If I'm traveling, I have my convertible carry-on with everything inside, including my daypack.

I forget exactly where I read it, but in the past couple of years, Rick has stated that in his opinion theft has decreased as Europe has become more prosperous due to the EU and the Euro (this was before the economic downturn). While this may be true, there will always going to be thieves (it's part of human nature)...there have been thieves since the beginning of civilization, and there will be thieves until the very end of humanity. As long as you're using a money belt as you say, you'll have no problems.

The main problem with reading this sites and others is that the problems are discussed to the point that you begin to think everyone has problems. Travelers who do not have problems have no reason to post. We have traveled 300+ days over the 15 years or so, just spent ten days in southern Spain over New Years, and headed back for another 34 days in September. During that entire time we have never had a problem or lost anything. Cannot even say we have seen a pickpocket despite being in some of the great pickpocket capitals of the world.

Is it getting any worse ??? Who knows?? Some of the local press in Spain suggested it was because of higher unemployment along with the downturn in the economy. My guess is that it may be marginally so but nothing worth worrying about.

Contrary to some fellow posters, I do believe you can blend in or at least not stand out as much as other tourists. We do avoid the white shoes,shorts, ball caps, t-shirts of all kinds, etc. We try to dress a bit more conservative and little nicer that we would in the states. Not going to argue that with anyone. It has worked for us and we will continue do so. Pickpockets are professional in their own way, and they pick targets that they believe will have the highest degree of success. We are not one of them.

If you have traveled before with no problems, you will be fine this time.

Thanks for your feedback. Another question: my husband just purchased an expensive camera and bought a backpack camera bag. He will take it to Europe for the first time. I would imagine it will be safe to have his camera in a backpack? I don't know why all of a sudden I've begun worrying about all this - never did before. I think some of the comments I've been reading various places have gotten to me.

Just don't be careless and leave your bags unattended and don't carry a thick wallet in your back pocket. You should have no more problems here than in your own country. I personally never had a problem, but chatting with other travelers who have had troubles and lost something from pickpocketers it was because they had a wallet in their back pocket.

Things in a backpack worn behind you seem to attract pickpockets. It's easier for pick pockets to get things out of something bulky that's behind you, in a crowded bus, subway, or train. Some of the pick pockets are surprisingly good at what they do.

We have had this discussion before also. The camera in a backpack worn on the back in crowed situation would not be safe. IN MY OPINION, backpack of any size and type should NEVER be worn in a crowded situation like a bus or subway car. Never on your back for what I hope is obvious reasons. Wearing in front is slightly better but still a potential problem. Get it off, and get it on the floor by your feet where busy little hands cannot get to it. Finally, I would not take an expensive camera to Europe -- period.

On the floor is probably not the best place as little hands are being taught how to steal things. While the owner is distracted "above," little hands are doing their work where no one can see them.

With a backpack, the best thing is to hold it in front of you with the zippers fastened together. Too much work for a thief and you can keep your eye on the bag. On the crowded bus or train, where people are packed in like sardines, you can't see any bag on the floor and those little hands will have a field day.

Any bag not in your line of sight is vulnerable.

I've switched to a messenger bag. The bag has a buckle clip to keep it closed. My electronics are in a padded pouch clipped to the inside of the bag. The bag is worn clip side in and over the pocket that has my wallet with the day's spending money. That wallet is clipped to by belt. To get to what's in my bag, a thief would have to get to the buckle (difficult), stick his hand in the bag, either unclip the pouch (not easy) or try to zip it open. Too much work for a pickpocket. Oh, and my hand and arm are resting on the bag.

My passport, cc, debit cards, most of my cash, and other goodies, are in my money belt.

Overkill, perhaps, but I'd rather be safe than sorry.

Meanwhile, England, Wales and Ireland have less of a problem with pickpockets than the southern countries--however, my cousin had her backpack stolen at Kings Cross station in London...while it was on the floor at her feet.

Frank is spot on this... a back pack in a crowded place,, a bus, or train,, should never be worn on back, but carried next to chest.

Human nature never changes,, but the internet has made us all more aware of whats going on... so, years ago if you only knew 4 or 5 people who had been to Europe,, and none of them had been personally pickpocketed,, then you never heard much about it . Now, on the net,, forums like these etc.. you can literally read about dozens and dozens of accounts regarding theft.. but thats because you are now "talking " to hundreds if not thousands of posters.. from countries all over the world!!

Dont be lulled into feeling too safe in the UK. The only place I ever had something stolen was in London in a very upmarket store! There is an awful lot of theft. When we go to a National Trust house to visit and park the car, there are huge signs warning you to lock your car and keep things out of view inside it.
I am always being reminded to watch my bags. Try getting into a phone box with all your luggage!!!

Abour backpacks...Never on your back in a
crowd. In addition to the possibility of theft, they hit everyone around you which is one of my pet peeves about backpacks!!!

I use a messenger bag with the opening towards my body. In addition, you must be aware at all times...I have never had a problem in the metro or the Underground, etc. And try not to look like a tourist!
I pride myself as fitting in because I dress fairly nicely...no shorts, sneakers,
baseball caps, etc. Just nice normal clothes that I would wear at home in a city.

When I carry a daypack, I have it on my back only in areas with few people; all the zippers are locked with Eagle Creek combination locks. When in more crowded areas I carry it on my front. I do carry expensive camera equipment because I am a photographer. I always carry it in a combination hip/shoulder bag with the strap around my neck and the waistbelt around my waist. My hands are always on my equipment. Vigilance is the key to protecting what you carry.

Last evening I was with a couple who had a major loss in Paris a few years ago. At a restaurant she had placed her purse on the floor between her feet. The man sitting behind her managed to deftly slip it away from her unnoticed. Only when she was departing and reached for her bag did she notice it was missing. She lost camera, money, passport--a very costly lesson.

Roy...do you normally wear a belt? If so, check out the "hidden pocket" type of money belt. It inconspicuously attaches to your belt and is worn inside your pants. I've worn one for years and hardly know it's there. Eagle Creek makes the one I use, but Rick Steves now sells one as well.

I've tried all the others and this is my favorite. I still occasionally use a neck pouch on travel days when I'll need to show my passport.

It's very hard to judge crime rates as they depend on how the crime is recorded etc.

I think you need to be cautious, but don't get too paranoid. Just behave like you would at home, but be a little bit more careful (presumably you don't walk around at home with wads of notes in your back pocket or all your worldly possessions in one bag). I have lived in a pretty rough area of London for 30+ years and have so far escaped being robbed or mugged. Just use your common sense, keep your eyes and ears open and try not to draw too much attention to yourself.

Roy, do you have x-ray vision:) How do you know that Europeans aren't wearing money belts? Not wearing a money belt or a similar product is like playing Russian roulette. Keeping valuables in you front pockets is asking for trouble.

Michael, I don't think that there are many people wearing money belts in their home town. The purpose of a money belt is to keep the documents and cash you don't need for that day secure. Most people at home use their desk drawer instead.

The reason tourists should use money belts isn't necessarily that European cities are cesspools of rampart crime. It's because tourists need better precautions than locals.

Tourists are at a slightly higher risk, because they tend to be in crowded places, like train stations, airports, and tourist attractions. Places with higher risk of theft (because thieves like crowds), than the quiet residential areas the locals frequent.

Additionally the consequences of theft are much more unpleasant for tourists. They tend to carry higher sums of cash for example. And replacing a lost ID document or driver's licence in your home town is merely inconvenient. Having to replace your passport or return ticket during your short visit in a foreign country on the other hand ruins a significant part of your holiday.

Yes, Europeans wear money belts -- in NYC and Seattle. But usually not at home.

The backpack option is one that I use to use for my expensive camera gear. I was ussually ok with it but on metros I was worried. I had people eyeing it and on las ramblas in Barcelona I had a guy following me as I was taking pictures. I told my partner who kept an eye out.

I am switiching to a messanger bag type camera bag and reducign the gear I carry with me. Also getting a carry safe strap.

will it stop someone...who knows but it feels better.

that being said only twice did I feel a bit vulnerable. the one time on the crowded metro and that time in Barcelona.

I found this on CNN.com....their security guy wrote this about safety while traveling (not just to Europe but travel in general):

These Tips Can Save Your Life

I admit I am a little careless with my my neck pouch. I leave it behind in the hostel locker...I will either carry a small messenger bag or a small backpack. I carry a bank card with me in a zipped up pouch is my messenger bag and my backpack has a small zipped up area within another zipped up area. I can't bring myself to wear the backpack up front, but if I am in a very crowded area I will loop my arm through the straps and have it by my waist. When it clears out I will put it on my back again. I do prefer a messenger bag, but if you have too much stuff in it, it hurts my shoulders.

Is it just me or is it the further east you go, I hear less travelers complain about pickpokets?

I have talked to other travlers about this subject and everyone from Europe that I have talked to laugh when I tell them about this subject. They think North Americans are crazy! They would never travel Europe without a moneybelt. And I have picked alot of brains on this subject!

I would think that most pickpockets go for the oblivious looking travlers. Just watch for them, you can pick them out!

Mark, I was referring to European tourists wearing money belts. Of course locals don't use them...that goes without saying.

Roy, how do you know if Europeans use moneybelts, etc? You aren't SUPPOSED to know. They aren't supposed to be visible.

I just received Rick Steves "hidden pocket" which I liked the moment I saw it. It definitely looks like it would be more comfortable than a traditional moneybelt to me; and perfect for anyone who wears a belt regularly; unfortunately since I don't, my husband gets to wear this one & I'm going to try the traditional money belt (but will attach it to my clothing with large safety pins as suggested by others).

Roy, the people you have seen digging into money belts in public don't understand the use of the belt. It's not supposed to be accessed in public. If it's necessary to get something from it, I step into a restroom and do it privately. I NEVER access it in view of anyone.

I have seen tourists fumbling about in money belts too and thought they were really drawing attention to themselves. I always keep some small change in my bag or pocket so I can pay for a drink without having to rummage under my clothing! Mind you, I do this at home as well so that I don't have to get a purse full of cards and notes out if I just want to buy a paper.

I bought a money belt hated it...I felt awkward and I felt like it was drawing attention to myself just like I have seen with others. I got rid of it.
I have a neck pouch but never found it too comfortable in the summer. I will probably give it a try again. But I am looking at this hidden pocket and think this might be the trick

Roy...I think you'll like the hidden pocket. But I think you're missing the point.'

The money belt--whether it be the type worn around your waist, neck, leg, or attached to your belt like the hidden wallet, is for the valuables you don't need on a daily basis--passport, tickets, credit cards, debit cards, cash, etc.

The only thing you should have in your pocket is what you estimate you will need moneywise "For That Day." You don't need your debit card every day. You don't need your passport every day. You don't need all of your cash every day.

If, for some reason, you have to get into your moneybelt, it's best to do it in private.

If you go to the graffiti wall and look under "scams" you'll see lots of stories of people who carried their valuables in front pockets and had them picked.

Those people who go into their moneybelts for every transaction, just don't get it.

Roy.....you may want to read the "nuanced" Fodor's quote again. While you said you had abandoned wearing a hidden money pouch, Fodors includes "money belts hidden under other layers of clothing" as one of its recommendations. No one's ridiculing you for making other suggestions, but they offer their own as well. For those who say front pockets aren't good, they likely speak from experience...I know I do. And those who comment that money belts aren't supposed to be pulled out in the open....they're also correct....Fodors editors emphasis the word "hidden," and note you should "always avoid retrieving valuables from the hidden moneybelt in public."
You might also notice also that EVERY PERSON who contributes to the discussion on the Fodor's link you provide ADVISES WEARING A MONEY BELT. Please don't feel offended if someone should happen to disagree with your security suggestions.

Roy, I couldn't care less if you wear a moneybelt or not, if you carry your wallet in your front pocket, rear pocket or in your teeth.

You had brought up some examples of people who were using the moneybelt incorrectly and I was trying to point those out. You assumed a moneybelt was just the type worn around your waist and tried to show there are others.

If you are that much against wearing a moneybelt, then don't. It will have no effect on anyone here. People come here and post asking questions of those who have experience traveling. We share our knowledge and opinions. If you don't like them, ignore them. No one is attacking you or arguing with you.

BTW...there are a few people here who don't wear moneybelts. That's their choice just as it's my choice to wear one.

Roy...please accept our apologies if some felt obligated to post, from personal experience, that keeping credit cards bound by an elastic band in their front pockets was not a good security suggestion.

Roy, you want an alternative.....Scottevest

I just thought I'd add some humor to this hot topic. I, like most of you out there like to do extensive research and planning to make my travels as rich as possible. The topic of security is definitely an important topic to consider. Unfortunately for me, the topic always leaves me anxious - although not nearly enough NOT to travel. Here is one funny travel storie that have happened to me as a result of my knowledge about all the "lurking dangers". This true story was published in Budget Travel this year. I have another funny true story on request.

How Romantic is this…
To ensure as perfect and romantic a honeymoon, in Italy, as possible, I scoured the travel guides for tips. I read that some Italian cities have a high rate of (petty) crime. I am not a fearless traveler, and this information caused me some anxiety.

We spent the first night of our honeymoon in Venice. That first night, since the room was warm, we agreed to leave the shutters to the balcony open. I decided it would be safe because we were on the 4th floor and no one could get into our room.
During the night, a noise woke me, but realizing it was only the shutters banging against the building, I fell right back to sleep. Sometime later I heard a louder noise and this time I bolted awake and into a sitting position. To my horror, I saw the silhouette of a stranger standing at the foot of our bed! I pounded on my husbands side of the bed to wake him; when that failed, my mouth opened and out came an absurdly loud, yet grotesquely demonic voice (like that of Linda Blair’s character in the Exorcist) and the words “GET THE @# OUT”! Seconds passed and I then heard a very shaken and hushed voice say “it’s me, it’s me”. In case you have not guessed – it was the voice of my brand new husband who was on his way back to bed having just gotten up to close the shutter doors!