I have read recently in a few places about pickpocketers in Ireland especially in the bigger city's like Dublin. Is this something someone should be concerned about??? People are recommending fanny packs instead of carrying a wallet or purse.Has anyone had an unfortunate encounter with a pickpocketer???
Well, some friends of ours reported that many of their belongings were grabbed (including the purse in lap) when they rolled down the window to ask directions in Dublin. I think it's prudent to protect yourself against thieves no matter where you go. First, leave your wallet at home and take only what you need with you. Anything you don't wish to have grabbed should be carried in an under your clothing security pouch. There are numerous threads here full of tips for avoiding pickpockets. Remember that they will go after anything easily accessible, so just make sure anything important to you isn't.
I was pickpocketed years ago (late 1980's?) on Dame Street in Dublin. I wasn't paying attention, though, and my purse clasp was broken - it must have been very tempting. That's the only time I've ever been pickpocketed, and I've been to Dublin four times. I guess that was not my lucky day. <BR> <BR>Of course, if you're inattentive and obviously a tourist in a touristy area, pickpockets are going to take advantage of the opportunity. Dublin's a "fast" city, with city slickers, pickpockets, etc. I really prefer the Irish countryside to Dublin. Keep your wits about you and you'll be fine. <BR> <BR>Due to my experience (lost my wallet containing all money and credit cards, passport AND drivers license), I don't go out sightseeing with a purse at all. I just carry a little money, an ATM or credit card and a lipgloss in my jacket pocket. I can enjoy myself better if I don't have to worry about what I'm carrying. I don't like fanny packs unless unless the person wearing it is young and/or very thin. Also, they really draw attention to themselves. I would carry a shoulder bag that zips securely, and keep a firm grip on it, or keep a little money and whatever is absolutely essential in a jacket pocket that goes really deep, or that you can zip closed. <BR>
Dublin has a pretty severe drug problem, which in turn produces a lot of pickpockets. Just make sure you carry everything in your front trouser pockets, or an inside jacket pocket. I would also discourage backpacks, as the pickpockets can unzip, reach inside and steal the contents without you even knowing. <BR> <BR>I've never understood why other women have to carry "lipgloss" or any other make-up item while touring about. Loosen up!
Also, a good way to lose money is in a pub. I've worked in several during my student days, and was told by more than one manager or owner to add a little extra to any American's bill. Prices aren't often posted in pubs, and the thought was that Americans have enough money that they won't really notice!
