Kiwier

Hello!..

What are the best ways to avoid pickpockets and theft in Italy? Shalli buy special bags or just a backpack would be fine?

Any advice would be appreciated.. I have seen some crazy vids on youtube with pickpockets just happening like every 2 mins or so...quite shocking i say..

Thanks for your tips..

nytraveler

Using a backpack makes it very easy for pickpockets to take things - it;s behind you, you can;t see it - and they can slit it and pull things out without your ever feeling it.

The keys to avoid theft are the same they are everyplace else

1) make sure you are always holding and can see all of your belongings (esp in train stations and on buses)

2) be aware of everyone around you - esp anyone who seems to be checking people out

3) don't speak to random people who approach you with any sort of story or request

4) never stop to look at a map or a guidebook in the middle of a street or station - always pull over to the side so you have a wall at your back and can see anyone approaching (the old west gunslingers always sat with their back to the wall for a reason)

5) be sure to keep your valuable in several differnt places - so if something is taken - you have back-up

StCirq

A backpack is an open invitation for theft, worst possible option. The rest is common sense and being aware of yourself, your belonging, and your surroundings at all times.

UmoDiViaggio

good adivse NYTraveler ...you avoid it in Italia the same way you would in any big city.
i have traveled Italia with a backpack and never had a problem, but my money is in my front pocket with a rubber band around it, and credit cards are in my front shirt pocket that has a zipper. do not walk around with your passport, lock it in hotel safe, or locked suitcase where you stay. and have photocopies of it and other docs.

Ackislander

Mr/MS Kiwier, this is at least your third or fourth post on a topic that is (a) completely accessible in any guidebook or (b) talked to death on here already so that all you have to do is use the search box.

I don't want to be crabby because we were all newbies once, but you do ask a lot of people. Will you be willing to pay us back with a detailed trip report when you get home?

charnees

Maybe Kiwier has short term memory problems, Ackislander. Or keeps hoping for different answers.

adrienne

Ackislander - there is some sort of glitch on the board today where posts are not showing up. There are several threads about this.

It appears that that OP is no longer a member unless this is part of the server glitch.