Antitheft bag

This is a frequently asked question:
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Most agree it's overkill.

I agree but wanted a daypack and found this one on clearance. Its also quite light but wasn't sure about the horror stories I read about pickpockets and thieves - if they were actually that much worse in Rome.

Thanks

We're a fan of our Pacasafe. Have had it for 11-12 years now and never had a problem.
Neither one of us can tolerate money belts or neck wallets so it's been a right solution for us. Whatever works...

It's less about overkill than simply being able to stow the valuables and forget about them so we can concentrate on having fun. :O)

If you've already traveled to these places, then you know what to expect. There isn't something else happening. Pickpocketing is around, it always has been. RS just wants people to know, I imagine. Not to be paranoid but aware. Do what works best for you. I tend to be over vigilant, and then end up feeling silly. But better that than silly for being pickpocketed I guess

Thanks

I always read about pickpockets on various sights but never had experienced any of them in all my travels. Just seems that on the Rome forums I have been visiting prior to our upcoming March visit, there seems to be more threads about pickpockets than the other places. Was just curious......

I carry a PacSafe crossbody when I travel as I prefer it to a day pack and it is big enough for my phone, wallet, and a guidebook. I don’t carry my passport with me in the PacSafe, it is either in a moneybelt or in the safe at the hotel. While there are pickpockets in large cities, Rome is no exception, as a family of 6, we were there in June and we didn’t have any issues. That said, it doesn’t hurt to be aware of the potential.

Sandy

Hi Herf,

I traveled to Rome (twice so far) with no issues of theft or pick pocketing.

This past year, I rode the Metro (late day) from where I was visiting back to Termini - I was not worried. I kept my bag in front of me.

You will see a lot of scooters - either for recreation or people using to and from work. As far as I know, there has not been the "old issues" of scooter riders riding and grabbing your strap or bag. Just keep aware. If walking along a street that has a lot of scooter activity, just keep your bag on the inside. But, I really feel you won't have to worry.

At times, I rode the infamous Bus #64 and the Express #40. Bus 64 will get/be crowded. If a bus is super crowded, there are always more following - Bus 64 and 40 are very popular. So, if you are not really strapped for time, just wait a few minutes for the next one.

Validate your bus ticket, put it in your bag - Inspectors have been getting on at random stops to check tickets. If you don't have it when they check, you may be fined - a lot. Again, keep your bag in front of you, zipped, and maybe a light hand on it when stopping at stops to let peeps on and off.

If by chance, the ticket validating machine is not working, write the time/date/bus stop/bus # and bus ID # on your ticket to protect yourself. Maybe take a picture of the invalid machine.

For my out and about during the day, I carried a Kipling tote/purse (about 14") to carry essentials and for little things I may have bought. Kipling is very lightweight too, has good, adjustable straps and holds a ton.

I carried some day money in a mini wallet which I secured to the key fob in my bag. My first trip, I wore a money belt and the Kipling tote. Money belts are recommended - used for extra storage and put under your clothes. This past trip, I wore a mini Hedgren cross body under my coat to carry my passport, extra money, tickets, phone, etc. Hotel keeps the key.

I never took out my wallet in public or in a store. Since I had the strap attached to the key fob, I was able to keep the wallet in my bag and "just take out what I needed" at the register or whatever. Don't hang your bag on a chair. Don't keep your phone visible on a table or counter. Of course, these are all common sense things. I'm sure you know.

I think you'll be fine. In case of anything, there are many police and military around - almost every corner.

Termini Station - some people are okay with it and some don't like it. I had no issues. It is a madhouse, no getting around that. Again, keep aware. Yes, there are "random people" wandering "looking for targets." There are police walking around Termini (inside and out.)

There isn't an Italian word for "money belt" or "anti-theft bag" and no Italian, except me and Roberto, would believe such things exists.

Termini's main hall is a crowded shopping center these days. The tracks area is quieter, if you are afraid of crowds just wait for your train near the intended departure track instead of standing in front of Trussardi's windows (just in case... Trussardi shop faces track 20).

Thanks for the tips, Girasole - yep, pretty much what I've been doing all along. I just am not sure why there seemed to be more of an emphasis on theft in Rome, especially on the other board I frequent....

Herf, you're welcome.

Rome is, of course, a huge city. With the influx of visitors, especially at peak times, it gives temptation to thieves. But, I'm sure locals have gotten ripped off.

eta: Thinking about it, some people make themselves vulnerable and a target.

Thieves "working the people" become experts at their craft. And, some things sort of fall into their laps - or hands, lol. It's always best to keep "a city attitude" when out and about. Just do your best.

One important thing to note - Rome has a lot of uneven ground, so it may be easy to trip (and even fall.) Some street curbs "just end" or may be broken. Cobblestone streets can be uneven - you may catch your foot on a protruding one. In rainy weather, they become slippery. Wear good, non-slip shoes.

If you are out walking at night, every so often, stop and casually turn around and pretend you're looking at the building or store you just passed. I scan the crowds so to speak; make eye contact. I do that at home too. It's habit.

Actually, I was flattered when I got asked a few times for directions or whatever. When they realized I was not a local, they were surprised. I don't dress or look like an average tourist. I was able to help a couple of Americans. But, when I was asked by someone speaking fluent Italian, I was of no help.

Try to keep your bearings when walking about. Look for a landmark that will be recognizable or familiar to you and/or local people if you get turned around. Carry the business card of your hotel. I can't recall if you're staying in the Termini area, but, a lot of buses (and trains) of course go in that direction; as that is the end of the line.