Day pack, travel wallet, or purse? (most important documents will be in my money belt of course) What is most comfortable and safe for other items? I've heard trains and subways are the most likely places to get pick-pocketed, what is the best way to avoid this? Thanks!
Posted by
Redding, CA, USA
1568 posts
I always use a day back pack in order to have my hands free. In fact I now also use a slash proof fanny pack. Here is a link for slash proof, tamper proof and snatch proof day packs, fanny packs and purses, etc.
http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=12
If your day back pack is not slash proof...use small travel combination locks on all openings.
Posted by
Torrance, CA
79 posts
I use a day bag designed by Uphill. It converts from a backpack to a shoulder bag (which is how I usually wear it) and it has a very sturdy handle on top which I have also used a lot to just carry it. It's not as big as some backpacks, it just has one large compartment, and a front zipper compartment, but it's plenty of space for the traveler. When I wear it as a shoulder bag, the strap goes across my body, and when I am on subways or in crowds, I can easily guard the zippers by holding on to the straps just as you would protect a purse.
The best way to avoid getting pick-pocketed is to be aware of your surroundings and instinctively protect your valuables, such as by guarding the zipper to your purse or day bag. If you carry your camera or a wallet in your pocket, when you enter crowds or subways it is smart to keep your hand in your pocket, holding on to the item. Some may think this paranoid of me, but I spent 3 months in Paris and touring Europe and was never pick-pocketed.
Posted by
Algonquin, IL, USA
68 posts
My "day" pack was a messenger type bag. It worked out well and I liked having my arm on it at all times.
Posted by
San Jose, CA, USA
424 posts
I purchased PacSafe's tote bag which served me very well.
http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&_action=detail&id=26
Posted by
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
705 posts
This topic always brings so many mixed responses. I always use a purse with shortish straps over my shoulder and wedged under my armpit. I tend to hold it by the straps when walking around as well. I have Personal thought but I don't like a back pack as I think you can't be aware if someone is tampering with it. Go with what you feel most comfortable with. I have never had a problem (maybe just luck).
Posted by
Los Angeles, CA, USA
1449 posts
one common place travelers are relieved of their belongings is when they set down bags (daypack, purse, etc). For example, sitting an an outdoor cafe with your bag on the ground or even in a chair. A moment of stealth, or a distraction that gets everyone to look away, and voila! A suggestion to avoid this is to keep a strap always looped thru your leg.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
4555 posts
Mike brings up a good point. When sitting at an outdoor cafe, stay away from the busy street-side tables. Thieves will grab your bag off the table or chair and be away before you even notice. In Madrid, many restaurants hire security guards solely to keep an eye on the kids roaming around looking for likely targets.