Pickpockets and keeping your stuff safe

The sling bag is fine. Just keep it in front of you with your hand on it. Don’t put it on or under your table when eating, etc. Just be observant. It’s impossible to never be distracted. Just be aware as much as possible. I carry a regular cross body purse w
my passport. I put credit cards and cash in separate areas of my purse in very deep storage.

carry your passport or not?

An experenced travler once posted "As long as I have my passport and credit cards, I can handle anything". While it is rare, there are times that situations may prevent returning to your hotel. Earthquakes, riots, fires, demonstrations. and accidents that require going to a hospital. Rarely happens, but we've seen it. Not to mention that in some countries it is required by law to have it on your person. Don't want to sound like Debbie Downer, just offering something to consider.

what is wrong with a copy of your passport

The copy is not an official document. In my experience, a copy will be accepted by a train conductor, but not the police or border control when crossing borders on a train.

your US drivers license

This is only valid ID in the US.

"Seems to be some disagreement about carrying your passport when you are out and about."

Yep...hot button issue here. I carry mine when I am out and about. I ask myself what would an Idaho (or Montana) police officer expect to see as a form of ID if they stopped someone. Would a photocopy do? Uh, no, absolutely not. You would not carry around a photocopy of your drivers license. Anyway, that's my rationalization. I've also never lost mine which is a fear from many people but I can't quite work out how it would be lost if you are being vigilant.

I wear a money belt OR at the suggestion from my forum friend Lynn in Boise, have "installed" split rings in my purse and on my wallet. I sewed one inside the zipper compartment in my purse and attach my wallet to it with a Seattle Sports Dry Doc tether.

https://www.amazon.com/Seattle-Sports-Coiled-Tether-4-Pack/dp/B00SLKJ9XA?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1

While the information about not letting yourself get squashed, etc is good, the time I got picked in Paris I did not even feel anyone around me. No one touched, pushed or bumped me. What they got was my toiletry pouch with my nail clippers and good hand cream. My CC and money and Passport were in the zipper pocket.

You may be able to sew in a split ring in the bottom of your sling bag and fasten your wallet to that.

I think the sling bag will work fine for you. I'm chunky so do not need the extra volume in front of me. I do have a sling bag from Eddie Bauer I wear in Yellowstone but it's because I can put my bear spray in the water bottle pocket and be able to deploy it quickly.

I think you are going to have a wonderful time! Trip Report will be called for, lol!!

If you would like my honest opinion, I would say it’s not enough. I don’t like wearing a money belt under my dresses or pants, either - the style that doesn’t attach to a regular belt. But, the pick pockets are very skilled, and they will do it without you being aware. And, if you’re in any popular museums, metros, train stations, etc., people will definitely be next to you. And sometimes it’s not busy locations. My husband had 10€ taken from his front pocket (fortunately we just had lunch, so it was only 10€) in an almost empty street in Bologna while I was concentrating on taking some photos of an ancient sign. We realized what was happening five minutes after it happened.

I insisted my adult daughter wear a money belt during her first trip to Europe last year. Last day in Rome, her crossbody purse worn in the front was opened. Fortunately, her money belt allowed this to just be another travel story instead of losing money or not being able to fly home because her passport was stolen.

Your purse will be vulnerable if you’re busy with a suitcase- even more if you have something in each hand like a second bag or cup of coffee while switching hotels. When I’m moving between locations, I’ve either had my purse inside a small backpack worn across my chest or similar, so it’s not visible. And then at least one hand free.

On a positive note, I was in Europe for a month in June, and having my credit card loaded on Apple Pay allowed me to pay for almost everything just swiping my phone or with cash. My physical credit card & ATM cards rarely needed to be used.

I hope you have a great time on your adventure! I love traveling solo, too!

You sound well prepared! Three months for a first trip will be amazing. Please expect culture shock as all of Europe is very different from Montana-I know, I grew up there! Each country will also be very different from the next and will provide fabulous opportunities.

I travel with a small crossbody bag that I hold in front of me-never placing it on a table or on the ground. If I happen to be sitting next to a railing I might loop it around the railing, hoping it’s secure enough not to go on a journey. I always carry my passport as it really is the only legal document you will have. It’s in a separate zip pocket that is next to my body-my phone and cc’s are there too. I’ve never understood deep storage as is referenced, but figure my storage is as deep as it’s going to go. When I traveled frequently to Amsterdam, I did have a neck wallet that I used, but I was rarely getting any currency or cc’s out of it, so it didn’t matter that it was under my jacket, shirt, etc. I never have had (YET!) any attempts made on me or my husband. We travel in Europe a lot. Not to say it won’t happen, but we are very careful in public transportation, at train stations, etc. You mention staying aware. Sounds easy, but you will get distracted every once in awhile by scenery, hordes of people, etc. Recheck your bag, take the photo and move away from any people/groups you feel uncomfortable around. In 3 months, you will start to let your guard down and that’s very okay. You will also know your limitations by then for any uncomfortable situation that may arise.

I have never worn a money belt. I do have a small wallet/cc holder with a clip that I wear on my front body inside the waistband of a skirt, pants or shorts. Dress-no as there isn’t an interior space to clip it.

Hope you’ve been able to figure out how to travel light. It’s difficult to pack for 3 months in several countries with changing weather. The lighter you travel, the faster you can move which also helps in those uncomfortable situations if you even have any.

Have a wonderful trip-all the ups, downs and in betweens will be enlightening and prepare you for even more travel in your future.

We are 2 of the folks who carry photocopies of our passports when out and about for the day. Have done this for decades without a problem. We are also 2 folks here who use a neck wallet for cash, passports and extra credit/bank cards when we are in transit anywhere be it plane, bus or train. There are so many people travelling these days and too many crowds to navigate at train stations and elsewhere that we feel more comfortable this way. My neck wallet does bulge a bit but I often have a cardigan on or tied around my shoulders or I use a scarf so it is not noticeable; we don’t travel in warm weather so the layering is not an issue.

I am going to be so unpopular for this.

Let’s exclude Barcelona, Prague, Rome, Madrid, Paris, Florence, Amsterdam, Bucharest from the discussion because those even scare me a bit. But to be fair, only certain parts of each and not the whole by any means.

Paris for instance has a report of 283 pick pocket victims per ONE MILLION tourists.

Pickpocketing is a crime of opportunity. Reduce the opportunity to whatever degree makes you comfortable. 30 years of traveling several times a year, even to a few on the list above, and I have never been the victim of a pickpocket assault.

But I am very clever, I carry little, and what I do carry I put in my front pocket. How many of the 283 in Paris do you think had their front pockets picked? If things get crowded, I will generally put my hand in my pocket along with the valuables; now how many?

I leave my drivers license and an extra credit card in the room as back up if anything does happen.

I do have some cargo pants I like with zippered pockets and, yes, I always feel a bit better when I am wearing those. But it’s all mental because the odds of being picked are infinitesimal with my ordinary steps.

Why do you think Europeans are any more dishonest than Americans? If you are not wearing that money belt in Kansas City, why are you wearing it in Budapest?

I do get that replacement is a bit tougher on the road in Europe and that is one reason to show a bit of extra care which is why my wallet is in my front pocket along with my flip phone (smaller, fits deeper).

Passport: In almost every country, to carry your passport is the law. You can choose to disobey the law if you wish. The odds of you getting caught are slight. Personally, I obey the law because it’s the correct thing to do and the odds of getting caught don’t play into the decision making process. Okay, not always. Sometimes I leave it in the room, but I know I am doing wrong and have no excuse.

We are 2 of the folks who carry photocopies of our passports when out
and about for the day. Have done this for decades without a problem.

Have you accidently walked into a protest rally (or something similar), had the police stop you and ask for your ID?

Just go and enjoy your trip.

Just back from a couple of months in Spain. I only wandered around with my actual passport when I knew clearly that I would need it, which was rarely. 99% of the time I could check into hotels or vouch I was a senior for museums using a photograph of my passport on my phone! I even used a photograph of my California Drivers License a few times when the clerk just wanted to confirm I was a senior. These are the days of eTickets and QR codes anyway, so clerks are used to looking at phones. A rare hotel or tourist site in Spain or Portugal demanded the actual passport, then I'd dig deep in my duffel bag for it and bring it along. You can check the tourist site website for clear instructions.

We were able to use Google Pay most of the time. I regularly just hid my wallet & passport in my hotel room when I'd go out for evening paseos, or museum visits. You should have photos of your passport, drivers license and credit cards on your phone anyway.

So then it seems like the phone is something you never want to lose. I had a lanyard which I wrapped around my wrist and never lost touch or sight of. I wore mostly sundresses without pockets so I just kept it in my hand, clutched firmly! The days of handing your credit card over to pay for a meal seem to be over. In Europe waiters, taxi drivers, etc. have those hand held devices or they are on the counter at stores.

I laughed but understood one forum post saying an REI or Patagonia day pack was a big giveaway that you are an American and probably one with money. As for tourists being the only ones at tourist sites, yes, that's true. I feel like I could spot European tourists or local tourists. They seemed to be the most relaxed ones, with fanny packs, and phones sticking out of the back pockets or walking around texting, without a worry in the world!

Enjoy your adventure!!!

I have a travelon purse with all the security “stuff”—lockdown zippers, slash resistant strap and body of the purse, rfid etc. Will it keep me and my stuff 100% secure? No. Do I feel better having it with me? Yes. I keep it in front of me, typically with my hand resting on it. On travel days, it gives some extra piece of mind while I am pulling my suitcase and personal item on top of the suitcase. When I travel to unfamiliar cities in the US I use it.

For international travel, I do carry my passport “on” me, although it is not preference to do so. However, my thought is I am NOT in the US and thus I must follow the rules of the country I in which I am a visitor. Also, last year, when walking through the train station in Florence, three police officers (not rail employees) stopped our family of 4 and asked to review all of our passports. They were very polite, but also very thorough and I was glad we had them ready to hand over.

There will be no agreement, but as someone in about your situation, you sound very sensible. You have read all the points, assimilated, thought about what will work for you. What I do doesn’t really matter and my experience so far doesn’t mean that it won’t be different in the future.

But one point that is occasionally made is that “Europe” is not generic. Large cities are not the same as small towns. All countries are not the same. I do things differently in different places. People are going to answer your question based on their comfort level, available time, and the places they go.

I am one who does carry my passport everywhere (more so that I don’t forget where it is) - it fits well into my small purse about like what you describe. If I am in a comfortable place, I take my purse off (but have been known to walk off and forget it….) - but in some places, not a chance. It fits in front of me, under a coat, or on my lap. But often it is on the table by my plate (mainly so I don’t forget it). I gave up on money belts and neck wallets years ago. I also don’t often go to Paris, Rome, or Barcelona - but I have in the last few years. I do carry my credit cards but not a lot of cash. I keep a copy of my passport elsewhere, which can be used to get a new one if I do lose it. I would hate to lose my phone but things are backed up elsewhere. With 10 days, losing a day or two to getting a new passport is a killer. With 2-3 months, not as much. Keeping a back up card elsewhere is probably wise as a “just in case”.

I am with you on keeping my travel wardrobe simple and comfortable. Have a great time!

Mister E, yes over many years, we have walked amongst or close to various protests and as of now, no one, including the police have paid much attention to us. The same has been the case in some train stations (when we do have our passports with us)…as the only or one of the ‘older’ white couples in the waiting area, we haven’t been the ones asked to show any ID……

It will depend on where you are in Europe and how careful you need to be. Out in the countryside, you can use a cross-body bag without many issues. I will use a money belt in large cities. Just talking to a friend today who took a cruise ship from Barcelona last month. She knew of five people that did not make the cruise because passports and items were stolen. So you do need to be careful in major cities such as Barcelona, Rome, Paris, etc.

@DKC Somewhat off topic but since she mentioned the Seahawks, and since I'm a fellow 12, consider also bringing your 12 or Hawks flag if you have one. I did that my first and second trips to Europe over the past few years. Have some great ones of me with it in front of the Eiffel Tower and Stonehenge. I was a Solo Traveler on that trip and offered to take other people's pictures if they took mine and held the other end of the flag. 😄

I know.two.people who.were relieved of their cash while in Europe. My cousin lost.money because she draped her purse over the back.of her chair in a.restaurant. Nephew lost all.their.cash in Barcelona.because he had put it in his backpack.which of course was strapped on his back.. Serious careless mistakes on their part. They might have just had flashing lights announcing their money. You sound like you are prepared and have received great advice. I have a cross body bag and further secure it using a.diaper pin to secure the zipper to.the ring on the strap. Just a little.exfra piece of mind. Go.and enjoy!!!!

I have a slightly different view. As people have noted, 'Europe' is a big place, and crime levels vary quite considerably. I tend to be more cautious in Rome than in London or Paris, for example. But I've never worn a money belt or similar - I just carry a wallet the same way I would at home. While I'm aware of the law in some European countries with ID (not the UK by the way) I never carry my passport with me due to the fairly serious consequences of losing it. My country has a national ID card which I do have with me - no idea if it would be sufficient, but in all those years I've never been asked for ID by anyone official.

If I'm in a crowded place, I make sure I keep an eye on my belongings, and I sometimes keep my wallet in my front pocket rather than back, or in my jacket pocket. I always keep a backup credit card separate from my wallet just in case.

I'm in (UK and Western) Europe every couple of months, and in 30 years of traveling have only once had someone try to pickpocket me (Rome). Unsuccessful as my wallet was in my front pocket.

I travel in the Fall and 99 % of the time I use a leg wallet. Occasionally a waist wallet.

Hi,
I’m a female solo senior traveler too.
I always wear my moneybelt…if you wear it with the pouch at the back in the curve of your back, you hardly feel it at all.
In it I keep my debit card and passport, and my extra cash.
In my crossbody bag I have my credit card and daily amount of cash.
Even if you plan to use cards and apps for everything you buy, keep a couple of hundred Euro, pounds, whatever currency you will be using, tucked away as emergency money, in case you lose your cards or phone.
I copy my passport in case I lose it; but I always keep the original with me.
In todays world, many things could go wrong, and this way I can go anywhere with a passport in case of emergency.
Since a friend lost her phone in Barcelona airport ( she just forgot to pick it back up off a countertop), I now tether my phone and my wallet to the inside of my crossbody bag.
Long tethers so I can get them in and out, but if I put them down it would remind me.
Copy every card and document to leave copies at home with someone.
Put your bank’s emergency number in your phone in case of theft and you have to report a loss to them.
Also the numbers of all the hotels and apartments you are staying in, as well as for all the airlines you are taking.
Make a small card to carry with you with a list of any allergies, any meds you take and any medical conditions, as well as a contact number for a friend or next of kin at home.

You sound quite well prepared, and I am envious that you are taking three months!
Remember about the 90 day Schengen Zone rules though……don’t get caught out.

I've been to Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Prague...all the "hotspots" for petty theft. I've never needed anything more than a neck pouch, and I carry my wallet the same as I always do at home. Maybe it's because I mostly travel solo, and therefore tend to blend in more? Only time I've been pickpocketed was in Brazil - and during Carnaval at that. I must say, they were very skillful, haha.

From another senior (77) solo traveler...

Okay, my first concern about new European travelers is when they say they're going for 3 months. The Schengen limit is 90 days, not 3 months. The day of arrival to and departure from the Schengen countries both count. I hope you've factored that into your itinerary planning.

I was also unsure if you'd explored Rick's Travel Tips. If not, here's the link: https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips

I suspect the Lulemon belt is similar to the StashBandz one linked below that I have worn for years because it is the only one that I've ever felt was truly secure and comfortable. It worked for me in a larger size when I weighed 200 pounds and works for me now 50 pounds lighter in a smaller size. I wear it everyday on my trips and my passport is almost always in it.

The only time it isn't is the very few times it needs to be readily accessible. At those times it is in my small cross-body purse secured like so many have described and it goes right back in the StashBandz when the need is gone. The way I wear the StashBandz makes it easy to access by pulling out the waistband of the pants I always wear. This is my StashBandz.

Obviously, it goes under my clothes not over them. This is how I dress with it from the skin out. Bra, Spanx shapewear tank, StashBandz, panties (shapewear is always supposed to go under the panties), pants, top (never tucked in).

Besides my passport, I have other flat things stashed (😉) in it. They typically include, my US drivers license, my backup credit card, my backup debit card, a little cash, travel insurance ID and perhaps most importantly, a small (7"x3") folded emergency information list that has my contacts, my medical conditions, my doctors and my most recent abnormal blood test results. I put all that in my money belt in case something happens to me and I can't speak and my purse somehow disappears. Overkill? Maybe, but traveling solo that kind of planning and preparation helps me feel more secure. I also have copies of that emergency information in my purse, my carry-on bag, my personal item, etc.

I never carry a wallet when I travel in Europe and barely carry one at home. There are very few cards of any kind that I need. Last trip (Ireland, Northern Ireland and Wales) I needed almost no cash and I tapped my card just about everywhere. I do put my Medicare and Medicare Supplement cards in my money belt for the trip from the US to Europe and back. They go in the safe in my room or hidden and locked in my luggage while in Europe along with my US cash.

As for a cross-body purse, I've had all kinds and all have been small. My current one is the one I'm using at home now. I stumbled on it at UNIQLO. It is very soft and comfortable and holds way more than I expected. Whether I'm at home or traveling I tend to keep it on my body in restaurants. I slip the strap off my shoulder and down to my waist and keep the purse in my lap or under a thigh. I'll let it hang down to the side, but only if there's a wall right next to me so that it's between me and the wall. I already tested it and I can use a split key ring to secure the zipper closed. I got it in boring black, but the other colors are calling my name.

May your planning go well and your trip even better.

Just one point. Your authorization to drive a car in your home state, is not recognized as an acceptable ID anywhere outside the US. It does not tell anyone in another country that you are there legally. You can buy fake drivers licenses on the internet at will. It's our fear of having gov't issued IDs that makes it the default in the US. Will you get away with it? Maybe.

But one point that is occasionally made is that “Europe” is not
generic.

TTM, exactly!! Which is why I exempted a few cities at the beginning of my post. In addition to those, there are "situations" even in the cities where you are least likely to get hit. You know my hometown, and I suspect you have been on the 4/6 Tram. My hand is in my pocket on top of my wallet and phone when the tram is full (most of the time). Otherwise, I can’t think of a place in the city where I worry.

We are 2 of the folks who carry photocopies of our passports when out
and about for the day. Have done this for decades without a problem.

.

Mister E, yes over many years, we have walked amongst or close to
various protests and as of now, no one, including the police have paid
much attention to us.

Claire, I apologize. Please don’t take this as argumentative. But your second statement illustrates that the first statement has never been tested. I have been stopped. I had my passport. But I suspect if I had showed any ID they would have let me go about my way, but that not really the point either.

But to be fair, your odds of ever needing to show identification are about the same as the odds of your pockets being picked. So, its not really an issue of function or need, more of a personal decision as a guest I someone else’s home.

I started wearing a crossbody purse all the time in my typically safe hometown to have my hands free when out with a grandchild or two. A senior recently had her purse snatched off her shoulder in a grocery store parking lot. She was knocked to the ground in the process. My purse is in place before I exit my car. Thieves are everywhere

It sounds as if you’ve done a lot of good preparation. I see two issues around the passport question: emotional comfort and physical comfort.

As I’m A) a bit anxious anyway B) sometimes absentminded about where I put things and
C) a rule follower, I feel more relaxed knowing my passport is with me. Although I’ve never been stopped by the authorities in a foreign country or been involved in a natural disaster, I would want to be totally prepared if I were. That puts me squarely in the always-carry-my-passport camp.

However, I’m not in the money belt camp. I don’t wear a money belt, or Stashbandz or a neck pouch. All tried and rejected as I’m short waisted and the belt/band/pouch always ends up on some part of my body other than where it’s supposed to be. (I was heartbroken that the Stashbandz didn’t work.)

To achieve physical and emotional comfort, I’ve settled on a very small PacSafe convertible crossbody/waist belt wallet for passport, cash and ATM and credit card security. It’s about the size of a money belt. And I wear it outside of my clothes but under my outerwear. I do not take it off at all during my time out. It has a cut/proof strap and locking zippers. I use a sling style day bag for my other stuff (sunglasses, first aid items, etc.),

PacSafe doesn’t make my model anymore but this model is similar. https://pacsafe.com/collections/bag/products/daysafe-anti-theft-tech-crossbody-bag

Here’s a Travelon that is a bit bigger but still small.
https://www.travelonbags.com/shop-the-look/crossbody-bags/all-bags/anti-theft-metro-convertible-small-crossbody/43416-500.html?gad=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI37HmleeygAMVy_HjBx003wGGEA0YASABEgKOc_D_BwE

Have a great trip!

Mister E, no apology needed:) Travel requires some balance of risk. We are more willing to risk that our photocopy of the passport and other ID will be accepted if we are stopped while exploring the neighbourhood we are in (day trips by train, bus etc we always take it), compared to risking having our passport taken and dealing with that inconvenience. So far in 55 years of travel to Europe, neither incident has occurred. And hopefully by saying that I haven’t now jinxed myself!

“Paris for instance has a report of 283 pick pocket victims per ONE MILLION tourists.”

There is no way to know how many pick pocket victims there actually are. I had my wallet picked in Paris and didn’t report it. I’m sure plenty of people don’t report it in Paris or elsewhere.

I always carry my passport with me securely. That and a credit card is all I need to get home. One never knows what could prevent them from returning to where they are staying. I prefer to be safe rather than sorry. I never remove my small crossbody purse, from the time I leave in the morning to the time I return at night. I’ve you’re wearing it you can’t accidentally leave it somewhere and it’s not easily removed from you.

I travel to Europe most years. I've been successfully pick pocketed once... in my home city of Washington, DC, in a crowded food court. I was almost picked in Paris years ago in the metro when a pick pocket tried to squeeze through the turnstyle with me. My ticket didn't work, so the person jammed into me and I caught his hand deep into my front pocket. Fortunately, my wallet wasn't there, though I usually do carry in my front pocket.

Afterwards, as I stood aside and absorbed what had occurred, I watched the scene. There was a small band of teenage pickpockets targeting that location managed by several adults keeping an eye at distance and looking out for cops. I tried to report it but couldn't find any police.

Since that time in Paris, I'm a bit more aware in crowded spaces, often keeping my hand on my wallet, and I keep a second card in a separate location just in case.

When I'm just walking around site seeing, I'm in the no passport camp. I carry my driver's license and a picture of my passport on my phone.

I'm heading back to Paris this week for my second trip, interested to see what might have changed in 20 years.

I am a senior guy, traveled solo on this past trip.

At the very least, I would suggest you use the neck pouch, even though it is a nuisance in hot weather, and the 'hidden pocket" That serves as my money belt. I also carry a wallet.

When out and about, above all, doing a day trip out of town from where you are staying, do have the passport on you. I don't carry a passport copy on me but the real thing when out and about. Basically, take those steps which you feel comfortable with.

I don't put my passport in either the hidden pocket or the neck pouch. But you might want to do just that. I know the locals, the bad guys can spot me out as a tourist, (one can't help that, plus I don't care...unimportant), visitor, outsider, etc. but then so what? I know I have tourist written all over me, even more so with wearing the waist belt below the pants' belt, up front and quite visible.

True, it is a dead giveaway that you are a tourist. The key is how do you handle that, if you care to do so at all. This past trip I felt the pickpocket chances/danger were overblown in Paris, took the usual perfunctory security measures but didn't worry about when out and about, even in the crowded Metro stations and Metro trains. I don't wear any day bag / pack of any kind.

On the fake petition signing, I experienced that only twice this time, both times in the area of the Louvre, just abruptly brushed off the guy. Being asked (again in Paris) the question, "do you speak English?" my answer was "what for?" before walking away.

Bottom line...don't get psyched out before you arrive. If you feel you're vulnerable, you could just get targeted. Be aware of your surroundings. I don't get that vulnerable feeling of being a potential target, certainly not in Germany. I'm going back solo in a few weeks too, can't wait to be back in Paris again, as well as Vienna.

Hi,

part 2 here:

The "best" chance of getting your passport checked when out and about is on a day trip that crosses a border, eg, going between Germany and Austria, say a day from Munich to Salzburg. I had that happen twice going through that Salzburg to Munich corridor, asked by the Bavarian police (Polizei) was on the back of the uniform.

This time that passport check was in Freilassing (the usual place) , the train had stopped and I had dozed off, so, obviously, the two police guys caught me off guard. Unlike the first time asked by them several years ago, this time I knew what they looking for in checking the Passport.

Like the first time, they asked me, surprisingly in German, not in English. So, all communication with them was done in German. One of the guys was more officious than the other, who looking through was getting a bit frustrated as I saw his flipping the pages. Even though I had a pretty good idea what he was after, I didn't help him, stayed silent instead. There was one question, luckily not asked by him, dealing with the US Passport, if asked, I was prepared to snap at him in German, by which time I was getting rather irritated.

Bottom line.....don't go through the Salzburg - Munich corridor, cross over at another site, if you want to avoid being checked.

If you do a day trip into Holland, that's another occasion you might have to show the passport to the Dutch controllers once you're over the border into Holland. That was in 2014 on the ICE train, don't know if it is still done. That check was not a random check either, where I was sitting, everyone was asked for the passport and visas by the 2 Dutch controllers.

Are foreign police/security really going to approach me on the street, ask for my passport and cart me away if I show them a copy of my passport along with a US DL?

Since you are not a citizen, Italian cops have precisely the right to do it. The chances are slim, but they are not zero and cops actually do random checks in train stations these days.

Handing a copy and an US driving license, while speaking a foreign language and expecting them to tell the difference between a real US DL and a fake US DL out of a Cereal Box... that's the fastest way to waste a couple of hours in a Police station.

Solo female traveler. Much experience in Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand. Adding to the "I carry my passport in a money belt at all times" contingent. By the way, the money belt does get hot in tropical climates. I can tolerate it well, but I place the passport (and any cash that is paper) in a baggie to prevent moisture damage.

The only time I was pick pocketed was while standing on a bus that I ride regularly in Chicago. Years ago, holding a toddler in my arms and bag over shoulder. I knew something was wrong. The guy was too close, but I couldn't move. When he exited, my bag had been unzipped. Luckily, my wallet was in the bottom of the bag with a lot of childcare items on top. I learned that next time I'm uncomfortable, I will say, "Please move over" or "let me by" or something similar. Draw attention to the situation.

When traveling, this has saved me several times. My wallet is attached to the inside of my bag with a small chain. something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C158CKQC/ref=sspa_dk_detail_3?pd_rd_i=B0C158CKQC&pd_rd_w=wXUmE&content-id=amzn1.sym.f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_p=f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_r=1N6PHRNTGHDGF8AYFN86&pd_rd_wg=2WkgL&pd_rd_r=6916b040-415a-48f4-9613-b5cd7073b038&s=apparel&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw&th=1

I can clip it on to a zipper or key ring inside the bag with the attached ring. I don't use a closure that is a simple toggle open and closed. Mine locks.

Several times, I have been about to leave the wallet on a counter after making a transaction or I have failed to close my purse fully and found that the wallet had fallen out but, due to the chain, was still with me. It seems incredible looking back that I could have been so unobservant, but traveling and constant vigilance is tiring. I must have been distracted.

I use hotel safes, but have read many reports of those being opened and cleared out or partially cleared out. No first hand knowledge of anyone this has happened to however.

Enjoy the trip!

I have learned to have my Passport handy even when crossing Borders within Shanghai.

About 5 or 6 years ago I was on a train from Austria to Italy. At the last station in Austria, the border guards came on and started checking everyone. It was an older train with compartments. There were 4 of us in the compartment. The guard came in and first checked the man across from me. He had a German passport and I heard him "Turkish" when asjed a question by the guard. (In German.) The other couple sitting on the side was from somewhere in the Middle East. (I saw Arabic charachters on their passport. He asked them a lot of questions. Then it was my turn I held up my American Passport. He just looked at it, we've me off saying it's not necessary and left the compartment.

Last year I flew from Athens to Stockholm. Upon arriving at Stockholm airport, everyone was checked at immigration to have to show their passports. It was the most thorough questioning I have ever had at any Schengen airport. I actually had to show them my entire itiberary and when I was leaving Schengen. It was thorough. I'm talking about a good 10 minutes. Everyone was checked liked that.

On non-travel days my passport is in my "hidden pocket." On travel days it's in a Tom Bihn passport pouch around my neck.

FWIW, My Philosophy, reduce what you carry, you reduce the risk to lose it, you reduce the risk that somebody thinks you have something worth taking.

My modus operandi is just my phone and essentially an ultra thin wallet with a credit card and a few euros. Passport? that is a calculated risk. If I am just relaxing near my hotel, an evening meal or a cocktail, it is probably in the room. If I am boarding any type of public transport, or venturing beyond town, then it is safely tucked away on me, usually in a neck pouch worn crossbody under my shirt.

If I really need my tablet, maybe even just to sit and read, then I have a small crossbody bag it fits in, which can also hold a couple other things.

I have tried hard to free myself of the "bookbag" type backpack for daily use, just more trouble and hassle than benefit, more interest from others what treasures I may have. I don't need a water supply, snacks, guidebooks, paper copies of everything, a camera, first aid kit. I have found the amount of stuff you haul grows to fit the space you provide for it. I assess the need for a rain jacket or umbrella based on what it looks like, usually opting to leave them in the room unless it is raining at the moment. If it rains, I get wet, I will live.

So to the experienced travellers of Europe, how is the pickpocket situation in Portugal, specifically Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto?

We'll be travelling there in October.

the pickpocket situation in Portugal, specifically Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto?

No different than anywhere else. Not as "developed" as the Paris Metro or the beaches of Barcelona, but I really do not vary my habits much as I travel around Europe.

The awful situation in Maui just now is a prime (but frightening) example of why you should carry your passport and ID with you at all times.
Many visitors there are being evacuated with no time to return to their hotels first.

Keep in mind, as pointed out above, the police do have the right to stop you on the street to ask for the passport. Chances of that happening are almost non-existent but I have seen it done. That , however, has never happened to me in 50 years traveling there.

Even though mandatory border checks were abolished in 2007 (?), it can be randomly done, whether you feel harassed, singled out, racial profiled, or whatever. I have also seen where only a couple of passengers were checked, or everyone sitting in my area. It's best to have it on you.

We were in Portugal this past spring. We did not experience or see any pickpocketing or attempts. We used trains and buses between cities, but, though we might have liked to, the Lisbon trolleys and buses were so crowded that we didn’t use them. I do know pickpockets are known to frequent some of the Lisbon trolleys.

I typically do not routinely carry my passport when touring a city. If there is some particular concern, I may carry it occasionally. I do have it handy for train travel, especially between countries.

When my son studied for a semester in a central European country, he was advised to not carry the passport while within the city. Students of minority races, however, were advised to carry them, however. My takeaway was, if I was in a certain demographic by race or age, I might be more inclined to carry the passport on my person.

For the most part, I feel safer traveling in Europe than some places in the U.S. For awhile, I had a son living in Chicago while the other lived in St. Louis. Great, fun cities to be sure, but we sure were vigilant in those cities.

OP, Go, and have the time of your life. You are more than adequately prepared.

This time in Paris last month I rode the Metro and buses, ie, used them in combination, was also on crowded Metro lines, though not packed in like sardines as was in the past, and was much less concerned, worried about getting picked, even in heavily tourist streets, eg, in Montmarte. Certain Metro stations were , as usual, very crowded. People were coming at you in every direction but getting picked, that possibility I thought was over-exaggerated.

Today i was in the Levi store in the Budapest West End Mall. There I saw the perfect solution. They are selling inside out jeans. Yes, jeans assembled backwards so the front pockets are inside the pants. What could be more secure! https://www.levi.com/US/en_US/clothing/men/jeans/straight/levis-x-beams-inside-out-501-original-fit-mens-jeans/p/844660000

So far…. I am 4 weeks into my 11 week trip. I bought a running belt from gearware on Amazon. I have a passport wallet that contains extra credit cards and a bank card, and my international drivers license. I only wear this when my backpack is out of my site, or not in a secure place, otherwise it is in my backpack. I consider locked storage in a hotel secure, I do not consider luggage in a mass compartment on a bus or ferry secure. I do not use hotel safes for fear of forgetting my stuff, I carry my passport in my purse. I have been asked for my passport at multiple hotels, once on a train and once during a hiking tour when we crossed over the border to Germany from Czech, in this case they took all our passports and ran a check, we were detained for about 15 minutes. So I guess for now this is working for me. I do feel better about caring my passport on me but do not see the need to carry a money belt on a regular basis. I think carrying your passport in a money belt would be a pain if you actually had to get it out and show it to someone. Keep in mind I am a women and i tend to wear dresses most of the time. We will see how the next 7 weeks go as I enter Into Italy…..

Regardless of the country in Europe at check-in in a new hotel, ie, one that does not know me as repeat guest, I always have to show my passport as the form of ID. Every hotel I show up at, I expect to be asked for the passport, in which case, I have the passport handily available, no fumbling in try to find it when asked by border control on the train or the hotel staff at check-in.

The only thing I'm worried about is when were on a boat tour to Capri or along the Amalfi Coast. There's supposed to be time to swim (but going at the end of October, maybe not), and also time to wander around Capri and Amalfi Town. So we're thinking we'll wear regular clothes and change into swimwear if the opportunity comes up. But I worry about having my passport/money in a bag with clothes if we go swimming. Advice?

There are any number of dry bags large enough to hold phones, passports, money, etc. that you can take into the water with you. Just google "dry bags for swimming" and see if anything fits your needs. If you go that route, try it out at home to be sure it is in fact dry. The quality of dry bags varies widely. Of course if you are in a group, you could just take turns swimming and watching out for your stuff.

It'll probably be too cold to swim, but I may just do it anyway just for the experience, to say that I swam off Capri and/or Amalfi.

probably don't walk around town carrying a passport and a lot of cash while distracted by humping luggage in an place new to me?

"In almost every country, to carry your passport is the law. "

Not really - various different requirements by country. The US Embassy notes that for France, passports are not required and "a drivers licence of student card usually suffices". For the UK, there is no ID requirement.

In 30 years of traveling as an adult in Europe, I've never been stopped and asked for ID except at a border. Obviously it's a matter of personal preference, but I never carry my passport with me. I do have a national ID card that I would show if ever asked.

In terms of wallet, I keep it in my pocket as I do at home. If it's busy/crowded I have it in my front pocket.

Pickpocketing does happen in busy locations (some countries seem worse than others). My advice would be, don't make it easy for them.

First-

Carry as little cash/valuables as possible. If out/take only a days worth of money and one credit card-leave the rest in hotel safe. If traveling between cities or airports always keep everything of value on your person or bag. Never put computers/jewels wallets in suitcase or you may not see it again.

You don't need a money belt. I just carry a cross purse.

As for passports-unless ID are needed for trains/picking up tickets-I usually leave it at my hotel and keep a photocopy. I don't know what other people have done but I've traveled all over Europe and have never been randomly asked for my passport. Nor has anyone else I know. But I have never driven a car or rented a car either.

Enjoy Europe. You will hear many many tales of pickpockets but a majority of folks go to Europe without ever experiences that. As for your hotel room-never leave anything of value out in the open when you leave for the day.

irstly, congratulations on your grand adventure to Europe! It's an exciting journey ahead, and it sounds like you're doing a fantastic job preparing for it.

Regarding your concerns about carrying your passport, having a photocopy of your passport along with your U.S. driver's license for daily outings is a practical approach. In most cases, this should suffice for identification purposes. The likelihood of being asked for your passport by police or security on the streets is low, but having a copy ensures you have some form of ID on you at all times. For extra peace of mind, you can store the original in a secure location like a hotel safe.

Your choice of a sling purse sounds perfect for your needs. It's smart, secure, and keeps your belongings close to your body, minimizing the risk of theft. The modifications you're considering for added security, like attaching the zipper to a metal loop, are great ideas. As for the concern about strap slashing, it's less common, especially if you're alert and your bag is positioned as you described. If the strap is tight against your body, it becomes a more challenging target for thieves.

The precautions you're taking, like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding typical tourist pitfalls, are spot-on. These habits will serve you well in keeping your belongings safe. The idea of using a lanyard for your phone is also excellent for quick access and reducing the need to open your bag frequently.

While money belts or hidden pouches can be an extra safety layer, they're not a one-size-fits-all solution, especially if they make you uncomfortable or don't fit your style. It sounds like the sling bag, combined with your vigilance and smart travel practices, offers a balanced approach to security and comfort.

In the end, it's about finding what works best for you and allows you to enjoy your travels fully. Your approach and mindset seem to strike that balance beautifully. Europe awaits with open arms, and with your preparations, I'm confident you'll have a memorable and safe trip. Happy travels!

" not-a -one size-fits-all solution"....True. It boils down to which security measures you take are sufficient for you. Using the "hidden pocket " and the "neck pouch " may not be enough for some, for me, that's it . Last summer's trip convinced me this concern or worry is not a big deal for me.

Never have come close to being picked in France in 50 years of traveling there, was picked once in Germany , ie, in Berlin on Museum Island in 1995, that was a fluke.