Re: Pickpockets? Seeking Camera bag for Europe Trip
^^^
A few comments on the above post.
There are parts of it that I agree with: This isn’t just about “international” (read “cities I trave to”) locations. While it isn’t generally a major issue in most places, it is an issue everywhere to some extent. It is especially an issue if you are a traveler and not a local, since you are more likely to be carrying stuff that is interesting to theives, and less aware of the nuances of your surroundings.
I also agree that one should not become paranoid about this stuff. The first time I traveled internationally I was quite worried, and I probably overdid my security preparations and worried. too much. Don’t fall into that trap. For the most part you can go about your business with teh same ease and security that you accept in your local environment, accepting that some things will be unfamiliar to you. (Hey, that is WHY we travel, right? We want to experience that!)
I also agree about “blending in” to the extent possible. Though the truth is that most of us are unlikely to be taken for locals in most places. People know you aren’t “from here.” How? It is a combination of things I’ve never quite totally figured out, but it is real. That aside, doing stuff that draws attention to yourself may not be a great idea. Be low key, non-flashy, just another face to the extent that this works for yo. That’s one reason to be a bit cautious about flashing big expensive photo gear, and other expensive stuff. Maybe instead of a brightly colored bag, you get that PacSafe bag in black.(BTW, using something like that doesn’t necessarily say “I have something you want inside.” It also says, “I’m not an easy mark.” :-) )
At the same time, some reasonable precautions (largely similar to what I take when visiting US cities or even in some local areas) make sense. It is mostly the usual advice: Don’t carry more cash than you need, don’t leave a phone hanging out of our pocket. Don’t be an obnoxious loudmouth, Keep your possessions secure. Without becoming paranoid, develop habits about staying aware of your surroundings. Exercise a bit more caution when you are in a very busy, crowded, touristy situation. Consider downsizing your photo gear for travel.
I’ve spent a fair amount of time traveling with camera gear internationally. On a day to day basis I am not the least bit worried and I don’t walk around being paranoid. I travel on foot. I take public transit. I talk to locals whenever the opportunity arises. (I could tell great stories about hanging with locals. :-) ) I don’t go with tour groups.
Do I walk around scared that I’m going to get ripped off? No? Have I been in situations where I was about to be? Yes.
Oct 20, 2025 at 09:29 AM
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