mesia

I know that there has been some good postings out there, but I wanted to seek some more opinions and experiences.

I plan on using a small sporty bag (wearing across my chest) for a good portion of my travel, but don't feel like using it all the time.

I'd like to get people's opinion if it's safe for me to use my usual small over-the-shoulder type handbag? I got a cute Sanrio combo lock to secure the zipper (looks like a purse accessory). I'll be taking my usual pre-cautions that I use at home, like holding and keeping the bag tightly under my arm. Is this kind of purse still unrealistic or too high risk for theft?

I admit that I like to sometimes match my purse with my outfit or use one appropriate for an occasion. I've use this kind of purse in my past travels, but these were places where I didn't stick out. If you can share any experiences that would be great!

Worktowander

If you feel comfortable about it, I think you should use it. Caution is good, but it can be taken too far. I've traveled in Europe, all over Mexico, Canada, etc., with a regular purse - that's what I feel comfortable with.

That said, I'd never recommend carrying "irreplaceables" (passport, most of my cash, Grandma's earrings, etc.) in my purse. Money belts are a good solution for those.

mesia

I bought a great money belt at the Going In Style shop (goinginstyle.com). Ladies if you would like to wear something that is discreet, thin, and soft around your waist - the Body Pocket by Design Go might suit you.

Eloise

Millions of European women wear ordinary handbags and purses; there is no reason why you cannot. Just take standard precautions.

My personal experience confirms the above: I've only ever traveled -- for over 30 years -- with an over-the-shoulder bag with zippers; I have never lost the purse or any of its contents to pickpockets or anyone else.

And some alarmist is going to flame me for misleading poor unsuspecting tourists who should be told to wear money belts under their clothes...

francophile03

I almost lost my valuables to a couple of 'Gypsy' pickpockets aboard the Paris metro a few years ago. After that incident I still carried a handbag but put practically all the valuables in a money belt. But just six months ago when I visited Paris I unexpectedly boarded the RER and didn't carry my stuff in the money belt. I was more aware of my surroundings in the metro car. All was fine. I think it's more important to be aware of your surroundings than if you carry a handbag or not. The first time I was almost victimized it was a pair of thieves working together, one to distract me and I was standing. So the other one had space behind me to do his troublemaking. If you stand up just be aware of people behind you if they are too close. Or maybe stand in such a way that you don't leave space for anyone to stand behind you.

eliztrav

I use a smallish purse with zipper and shoulderstrap, too. In summer, usually a black microfiber one in a current style. But, I never put in it anything I can't afford to lose. Valuables go in a moneybelt or stay at home (expensive or irreplaceable watch or jewelry). Agree that awareness is the best defense, but I like to help my odds with limiting what could be lost! So, the most expensive item I might lose in my purse is a day's worth of cash & my (sob) camera. So far, have never lost a thing.

Kazz

I was almost mugged in Barcelona a few years ago by a chico who pulled a knife on me and my husband. We ran like hell and made lots of noise....didn't get the bag - although there wasn't anything valuable in it. This was partly our stupidity for being in the wrong barrio at the wrong time of night and should have known better but it was our 5th trip to Barca and let our guard down. I still carry a bag but nothing in it except things I wouldn't be upset about losing.

If I'm going somewhere that busy (like dancing) I don't bother taking one. If you are going to worry about losing your bag the entire time you are carrying it, don't bother - its not worth ruining your evening over.