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Where am I supposed to carry my smartphone?

This smartphone won't fit in my money belt, but it seems a bit risky to put it in the left front pocket of these khaki trousers I am going to wear. My day pack seems like an even worse idea. I would appreciate any advice!

Posted by
32173 posts

Daniel, I tend to carry my phone (Smart or otherwise) either in a belt holder or in "high risk" areas in a secure pocket in my Tilley Travel Vest. I don't always carry a Daypack, but would NOT carry it there. One option might be to buy a second neck-style Moneybelt just for the phone. Here's one model you could check out: http://www.magellans.com/coversafe-75-secret-neck-pouch Cheers!

Posted by
2527 posts

Where do you carry it now? I place mine in a secure compartment in my day pack whether hiking trails about here or traveling in Europe.

Posted by
11294 posts

Two questions: Where do you carry it now?
Why do you think it's risky to put it in a front pants pocket? (Isn't that where you keep your wallet?)

Posted by
9110 posts

Taking it in steps: some people don't use packs / some people think that's a bad idea some people don't use money belts / it's kind of hard to a phone in a money belt without looking like the tv guy who had a phone in his shoe / sometimes it doesn't fit in a money belt some people wouldn't buy a vest to carry a phone how do some people know what a pickpocket targets - - 2012 Pickpocket Survey? a belt pouch / clip / holster is pretty visible That pretty much covers the possibilities. I've been out for six weeks so far this time and a pocket's working just fine.

Posted by
1021 posts

I'm with Ed. Like here, just about everybody in Europe has a mobile phone. They carry them just like we do in the States, in pants pockets, purses, jacket pockets, etc. Be vigilant in crowds like you are here, otherwise don't sweat it.

Posted by
392 posts

I keep it in a zippered pocket of my cross body bag, closer to my body so it can't be easily pickpocketed. The whole point of the phone is for me to keep it handy. And anyway, I have lived in NYC for years, much of it in the Bronx, and never been robbed, so I must be good at being vigilant. I have practiced glaring at people in the subway, I suppose.

Posted by
3696 posts

Daniel... just carry it the same place as you would at home. If you feel you are in a sketchy or over crowded area, just keep your hand on it. Biggest risk is probably losing it.

Posted by
4406 posts

I like Roy's 'hidden pocket' style suggestion. You can pin it to the inside of your waistband or front pocket lining so that it's exactly where it's most comfortable for you - horizontally or vertically.

Posted by
1064 posts

Daniel, you say your smartphone will not fit in your money belt. Were you trying it with a traditional wraparound money belt, which would not be a good idea, anyway, or the hidden pocket type that loops around a belt and tucks inside your pants? Those you could take out without having to undo your pants, provided you don't have a dunlap problem. A lot depends on the type and model of phone and whether it has a protective case around it. I don't know if all hidden pockets are the same size or not. As for what level of security is necessary, that depends on your individual circumstances and level of risk tolerance.

Posted by
8934 posts

If you wear a satchel or messenger bag, there will be pockets inside for you carry your phone. Much safer than a back pack, and easier for you, yourself to access.

Posted by
2527 posts

Given my needs and preferences, a backpack works very well for me and have never had a problem with theft in many international trips. Of course, whether utilizing a backpack or other style bag, always be aware of your surroundings.

Posted by
1150 posts

There are lots of travel-friendly pants that have a zippered pocket inside one of the front pants pockets. It's a bit harder to get things in and out of it (that's the idea, of course), but it might be a good compromise for both factions of the money belt or not question. The ones I use are from Ex Officio, I think, but there are many choices available.