A Few Small Steps to Thwart Pickpockets
April 19, 2007. Let's face it: The chances you will be pick-pocketed on vacation are slim. But why give thieves a chance to ruin a nice stay at a luxury vacation rental? An article in the Washington Post described an American's experience in Europe after being robbed on a train, and offers some great insight and advice.
The traveler wore a money belt, but wore it carelessly around his waist "like a fanny pack … instead of like a locked safe." With the zippered opening exposed, a thief carefully lifted the contents while the traveler chatted with his partner on the train. Needless to say, the experience put a sour end to an otherwise magnificent trip.
The Washington Post also offered several tips for travelers.
* Money belts are a popular choice for travelers to big cities and foreign vacation destinations, but they should be worn under the shirt, close to the body.
* Place wallets in the front pocket, rather than the more vulnerable back pocket. Wrap a rubber band around the wallet to create some friction, acting as an alarm if a thief attempts to remove it.
* Wear shoulder bags across your body, rather than over a shoulder or simply in hand.
