A Friend is traveling soon to Europe. She asked what the top tips were that I would recommend for them while over there. Here you go….
Here are a number of tips that I would highly recommend you follow, if at all possible.
1.) Carry on baggage only - that means 1 suitcase (carry on size) and a purse/daybag. Amy carried a backpack with all her stuff from a company called PacSafe (at REI stores). PacSafe focuses on pickpocket proof bags that you may really like and give you a big of a piece of mind. If you check other bags - BE SURE to have a carry on with some clothes in it and your essentials just in case. Carry on is the way to go - because while everyone else is waiting for their luggage - you’re out the airport and into the train station - plus noone can lose your luggage but you.
2.) USE A MONEY BELT, USE A MONELY BELT, USE A MONELY BELT. Do NOT carry a wallet and don’t carry a purse with your passports, IDs, CASH, credit cards, etc. You can be on the most crowded train, asleep, and with a money belt YOU”RE 99% safe with your cash/IDs. Carry a purse or wallet and it’s highly likely it will be stolen/pickpocketed. Put your cash, credit cards and passports in your moneybelts around your waist - under your pants/skirt. That is the safest way to travel in Europe - crime is low but pickpockets are huge over there, especially in touristy areas - go to www.ricksteves.com and look for the section on traveler comments/scams! There’s a ton of little scams those idiots do to try to get your cash - I’m not trying to scare you - but as long as you’re aware that that little old lady that just fell down the stairs was legit versus a commotion created for her accomplices to steal wallets from people helping her up, you’ll be okay!
