Scared to go to Paris / Bag to bring
Mar 19th, 2013, 08:10 PM
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Scared to go to Paris / Bag to bring
Hello, I've been planning this trip for months. I've been reading stories about vicious attacks, people being robbed, pickpocketed. I know it's apparent that major touristy places will have pickpocketers, etc but I feel that I've been reading way too many stories about this happening. Now I'm not excited at all and pretty scared to even go. Am I just being paranoid or are there really that much of this happening? Anyways, I obviously am trying to be optimistic and excited for this trip!
I have 2 bags that I need to pick from to bring.
I wanted to bring this one more: http://www.oakley.com/women/a/79/de/...tpCGkDYiYD.jpg
It holds more things in it, and in order to get into the main compartment, you need to unbuckle 3 buckles and a zipper. I felt that security wise, it's pretty good. However, I've been reading things against bringing a backpack. This one is on the small side.
I also have this, it can fit my camera, and it's a purse type cross body bag that may be more suitable to Paris 'conditions' - http://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-Port...pr_product_top
However its much smaller and I can basically fit my camera and thats about it.
Thoughts?
I have 2 bags that I need to pick from to bring.
I wanted to bring this one more: http://www.oakley.com/women/a/79/de/...tpCGkDYiYD.jpg
It holds more things in it, and in order to get into the main compartment, you need to unbuckle 3 buckles and a zipper. I felt that security wise, it's pretty good. However, I've been reading things against bringing a backpack. This one is on the small side.
I also have this, it can fit my camera, and it's a purse type cross body bag that may be more suitable to Paris 'conditions' - http://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-Port...pr_product_top
However its much smaller and I can basically fit my camera and thats about it.
Thoughts?
Mar 19th, 2013, 08:48 PM
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<i>I've been reading stories about vicious attacks, people being robbed, pickpocketed. I know it's apparent that major touristy places will have pickpocketers, etc but I feel that I've been reading way too many stories about this happening. </i>
Where did you read this? PAris is as safe if not safer than any major American city. Use whatever luggage you use to go to such cities.
Where did you read this? PAris is as safe if not safer than any major American city. Use whatever luggage you use to go to such cities.
Mar 19th, 2013, 08:54 PM
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No getting around it. You will be a target of pickpockets but there is no reason to be a victim. Keep your valuables under your clothes next to your body and hang on to your bag at all times. Go on alert if you are bumped or distracted by some sudden event near you. Be especially wary in Metro stations and Metro cars. Carry an umbrella.
Don't even think of using a back pack in Paris. Have a bag on a strap that is long enough that the bag rides on your belly and you have one hand on it at all times. Thieves operate in teams and can work miracles in snatching and disappearing. Don't be paranoid. Be on guard.
Have fun. You'll love Paris.
Don't even think of using a back pack in Paris. Have a bag on a strap that is long enough that the bag rides on your belly and you have one hand on it at all times. Thieves operate in teams and can work miracles in snatching and disappearing. Don't be paranoid. Be on guard.
Have fun. You'll love Paris.
Mar 19th, 2013, 08:57 PM
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You seem to be more concerned about your luggage than the "vicious attacks" since you've given 2 links to the luggage and no links for the attacks. So I'm guessing that you're paranoid.
Beware of gargoyles!
Beware of gargoyles!
Mar 19th, 2013, 08:58 PM
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ajcpks,
My wife and I have been to Paris half a dozen times and will return this year. I take a backpack and a computer bag very similar to both you show. Personally, I've never worried about being pick pocketed or having my things stolen.
I caught a lady with her had in my pocket in Madrid. I got swarmed by a bunch of kids in Florence, but both attempts were unsuccessful. I've never had a problem in Paris. That's not to say they don't exist, but use a little common sense and take a few precautions and you will be fine.
I never carry more than 20 Euro in my wallet. My wife and I keep our cash, ATM and credit cards in a money belt, a small necklace type purse, and my wife just purchased a small leather purse with a strong strap to carry over her shoulder. Just be careful with your valuables, don't unnecessarily flash cash, and keep an eye on your luggage and you'll be fine.
I'm not sure where you are from, but I'm American and lived in Europe 11 years. I'm a lot more nervous about being pick pocketed or mugged in pretty much every major city in America than I am in any major city in Europe.
By the way, you are normally allowed a carry-on bag and a personal bag. I've never had trouble taking both my backpack and computer bag. I avoid using a large suitcase if at all possible.
My wife and I have been to Paris half a dozen times and will return this year. I take a backpack and a computer bag very similar to both you show. Personally, I've never worried about being pick pocketed or having my things stolen.
I caught a lady with her had in my pocket in Madrid. I got swarmed by a bunch of kids in Florence, but both attempts were unsuccessful. I've never had a problem in Paris. That's not to say they don't exist, but use a little common sense and take a few precautions and you will be fine.
I never carry more than 20 Euro in my wallet. My wife and I keep our cash, ATM and credit cards in a money belt, a small necklace type purse, and my wife just purchased a small leather purse with a strong strap to carry over her shoulder. Just be careful with your valuables, don't unnecessarily flash cash, and keep an eye on your luggage and you'll be fine.
I'm not sure where you are from, but I'm American and lived in Europe 11 years. I'm a lot more nervous about being pick pocketed or mugged in pretty much every major city in America than I am in any major city in Europe.
By the way, you are normally allowed a carry-on bag and a personal bag. I've never had trouble taking both my backpack and computer bag. I avoid using a large suitcase if at all possible.
Mar 19th, 2013, 09:02 PM
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<<<i> I've been reading stories about vicious attacks, people being robbed, pickpocketed>></i>
Yes, you are being paranoid. Wherever you have been reading that kind of hysterical exaggeration, stop going there for travel information.
Pickpockets are a fact of life the world over, but Paris has no claim on an higher concentration of them than any other large city. A bit of common sense is all that is needed.
You are correct that backpacks are perhaps more vulnerable because you can't see the various zippers/openings when wearing them. Plus, they are a royal PIA to other travelers, especially in crowded places. I detest them and think wearing them should be banned on public transport. And that first one looks like something built to hold Darth Vader's ashes.
The second one is much more reasonable, though it may be a bit small - but what do you plan to be carrying around? I like something with a closeable but easy to access outside pocket for things like transit pass, and a closed (e.g., zippered) interior section, preferably with an additional small zippered compartment inside for wallet/passport. There are many more styles available online or at discount stores - shop around. Just remember to wear it with the strap across your body, not hanging off your shoulder, and with the bag in front of you and not behind.
Yes, you are being paranoid. Wherever you have been reading that kind of hysterical exaggeration, stop going there for travel information.
Pickpockets are a fact of life the world over, but Paris has no claim on an higher concentration of them than any other large city. A bit of common sense is all that is needed.
You are correct that backpacks are perhaps more vulnerable because you can't see the various zippers/openings when wearing them. Plus, they are a royal PIA to other travelers, especially in crowded places. I detest them and think wearing them should be banned on public transport. And that first one looks like something built to hold Darth Vader's ashes.
The second one is much more reasonable, though it may be a bit small - but what do you plan to be carrying around? I like something with a closeable but easy to access outside pocket for things like transit pass, and a closed (e.g., zippered) interior section, preferably with an additional small zippered compartment inside for wallet/passport. There are many more styles available online or at discount stores - shop around. Just remember to wear it with the strap across your body, not hanging off your shoulder, and with the bag in front of you and not behind.
Mar 19th, 2013, 09:11 PM
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The single most important thing you can do to prevent pickpocketing is to be aware of what's going on around you and to avoid, as best you can, looking and/or sounding like a "stupid" tourist. You will probably not be taken as French or a European, unless your French is impeccable, but there's a difference between someone who is a sincerely interested visitor and someone who's taking a "if this is Tuesday, it must be Belgium" bus tour.
So if you're interested in feeling more like you fit and thus less likely to be targetted, start by wearing darker coloured clothing that fits well - no baggy pants, dress jeans if you wear jeans, no t-shirts or other clothing with local business logos (avoiding logos generally is best). Wear scarves - European women (and a lot of men, too, for that matter) wear scarves, tied or looped in wonderfully attractive, sophisticated ways. Don't wear bright coloured nail polish, like pistachio, but a tasteful manicure is a very good idea. Sneakers are fine but not white; my niece assures me that university aged boys wear running shoes like Converse, but in black, and so do some girls. Never appear to be afraid - be assured and be prepared.
Be polite. This sounds so easy, but the rules of behaviour are different in every country of the world from every other country. This forum - and lots of others - will offer advice on what to do when you enter a store, when you're in a cafe, etc. READ THEM and follow their advice. My experience with the service industry in all of Europe is much, much better than in the US because I know, and they know, the rules and live by them.
Paris is so beautiful... you will love every moment.
So if you're interested in feeling more like you fit and thus less likely to be targetted, start by wearing darker coloured clothing that fits well - no baggy pants, dress jeans if you wear jeans, no t-shirts or other clothing with local business logos (avoiding logos generally is best). Wear scarves - European women (and a lot of men, too, for that matter) wear scarves, tied or looped in wonderfully attractive, sophisticated ways. Don't wear bright coloured nail polish, like pistachio, but a tasteful manicure is a very good idea. Sneakers are fine but not white; my niece assures me that university aged boys wear running shoes like Converse, but in black, and so do some girls. Never appear to be afraid - be assured and be prepared.
Be polite. This sounds so easy, but the rules of behaviour are different in every country of the world from every other country. This forum - and lots of others - will offer advice on what to do when you enter a store, when you're in a cafe, etc. READ THEM and follow their advice. My experience with the service industry in all of Europe is much, much better than in the US because I know, and they know, the rules and live by them.
Paris is so beautiful... you will love every moment.
Mar 19th, 2013, 09:45 PM
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In fifty years of visiting Paris, I have never had this sort of problem. I have occasionally had the obvious scam approaches (the "gold ring", but only the once - fortunately I can swear in French); and a charming old lady once blagged her metro fare off me at the Gare du Nord. But no-one's ever pickpocketed me or tried to attack me physically. Honestly.
Use maps and guidebooks to plan in advance where you need to go, so you will look like you know what you're doing and aren't easily distracted. On the Metro, get used to telling yourself the route beforehand, as it might be, "Line 4 direction Mairie de Montrouge/Porte d'Orléans, change at Montparnasse to line 6 direction Charles de Gaulle/Etoile". If you need to stop and consult maps and the like (every Metro station has a map of the surroundings showing the different exits), keep a hand on your bags and belongings.
http://www.ratp.fr/plan-interactif/
In cafés and restaurants, tuck your bags and valuables somewhere safe (but not so out of sight to you that they will be out of mind). Tables sometimes have clips or hooks underneath for bag handles, or you can put the leg of a chair (or indeed your own) through the handles.
And, of course, leaving baggage unattended anywhere can make people scared of <i>you</i>.
Use maps and guidebooks to plan in advance where you need to go, so you will look like you know what you're doing and aren't easily distracted. On the Metro, get used to telling yourself the route beforehand, as it might be, "Line 4 direction Mairie de Montrouge/Porte d'Orléans, change at Montparnasse to line 6 direction Charles de Gaulle/Etoile". If you need to stop and consult maps and the like (every Metro station has a map of the surroundings showing the different exits), keep a hand on your bags and belongings.
http://www.ratp.fr/plan-interactif/
In cafés and restaurants, tuck your bags and valuables somewhere safe (but not so out of sight to you that they will be out of mind). Tables sometimes have clips or hooks underneath for bag handles, or you can put the leg of a chair (or indeed your own) through the handles.
And, of course, leaving baggage unattended anywhere can make people scared of <i>you</i>.
Mar 19th, 2013, 10:33 PM
#10
I've been twice alone to Paris without problems. You must keep your purse in hand not behind your shoulder if it's a cross body strap. In most popular areas you won't have much problems but beware of anyone trying to sell you a gold ring they found, and never leave your puse, cell phone on the table, where a passerby will snatch it. A common thing here in Boston and New York.
Mar 19th, 2013, 11:36 PM
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We are presently in Paris for an extended stay. This being our third time here, I would agree with the other comments.
Moreover, this time we are in an apt. Near both gar du nord and gar d'est, an area not normally visited by north American tourists. We see many immigrants and city people, if you will, and have yet to see any problems. In fact, walking around gar d'est is like walking around an upscale mall, think Sephora, Brasserie Flo etc.
My advice to you is to look forward to coming to both a vibrant cultural city and a city with beautiful architecture. Also try to not only see the areas frequented by tourists, but other, just as beautiful areas if you have the time, such as canal st. Martin especially on the weekend!
Moreover, this time we are in an apt. Near both gar du nord and gar d'est, an area not normally visited by north American tourists. We see many immigrants and city people, if you will, and have yet to see any problems. In fact, walking around gar d'est is like walking around an upscale mall, think Sephora, Brasserie Flo etc.
My advice to you is to look forward to coming to both a vibrant cultural city and a city with beautiful architecture. Also try to not only see the areas frequented by tourists, but other, just as beautiful areas if you have the time, such as canal st. Martin especially on the weekend!
Mar 19th, 2013, 11:52 PM
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Anyone can get pick pocketed in Paris or Rome or carjacked in Memphis or Charlotte.
Carrying a backpack just makes it easier for the bad guys.
You have gotten good advice here, but I will add that another way tourists make it easy for the bad guys is to stand right near the door on the Metro, a natural thing to do when you are afraid of missing your stop on an unfamiliar line. The bad guys, 3-5 of them, will block the door, bump into you, throw your valuables to a pal on the platform and be gone, all as the door to the train closes. A waist belt makes you safer but not immune to a really good gang.
As far as other safety is concerned, I have ridden buses and walked in neighborhoods all over Paris (within the arrondissements) up to midnight without any sense of being threatened.
We are going again in late May, and we could get mugged or more likely pick pocketed (I am a bit paranoid about my new iPad mini), but I worry a lot more about rain.
Carrying a backpack just makes it easier for the bad guys.
You have gotten good advice here, but I will add that another way tourists make it easy for the bad guys is to stand right near the door on the Metro, a natural thing to do when you are afraid of missing your stop on an unfamiliar line. The bad guys, 3-5 of them, will block the door, bump into you, throw your valuables to a pal on the platform and be gone, all as the door to the train closes. A waist belt makes you safer but not immune to a really good gang.
As far as other safety is concerned, I have ridden buses and walked in neighborhoods all over Paris (within the arrondissements) up to midnight without any sense of being threatened.
We are going again in late May, and we could get mugged or more likely pick pocketed (I am a bit paranoid about my new iPad mini), but I worry a lot more about rain.
Mar 20th, 2013, 04:02 AM
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Absolutely most important thing is to wear an under the clothing style money belt with your passport, credit cards, ATM cards and cash other than one days spending money. You can buy one any place that sells luggage, even walmart. Don't access it in public. I carry one credit card and some cash in a thin pouch like wallet on a string in my pocket and the rest in the money belt. The wallet on a string is as much to prevent loss as it is to prevent theft.
Once you've taken that precaution, the type of bag you carry is a lot less important. You may want to carry an extra sweater, an umbrella, etc in addition to the camera so the backpack could be very useful. When I use a day pack like that I take it off my back in the metro, in very crowded places, etc and just carry it on one shoulder so the bag is protected by my arm. But if you are just walking around normal streets a back pack like that is fine.
Obviously be aware of scams like those mentioned above and I wouldn't be out alone late at night, but really, what you've been reading is just paranoia.
Once you've taken that precaution, the type of bag you carry is a lot less important. You may want to carry an extra sweater, an umbrella, etc in addition to the camera so the backpack could be very useful. When I use a day pack like that I take it off my back in the metro, in very crowded places, etc and just carry it on one shoulder so the bag is protected by my arm. But if you are just walking around normal streets a back pack like that is fine.
Obviously be aware of scams like those mentioned above and I wouldn't be out alone late at night, but really, what you've been reading is just paranoia.
Mar 20th, 2013, 05:10 AM
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I am also going to Paris next month and I am too taking all the advice I can from all fodorists...got awesome advice so far....I got this a week ago from amazon and I am planning on wear it under my clothes: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0053HLLA8/..._M3T1_ST1_dp_1
Will never be caught holding a backpack in USA or Europe...but I will wear what Parisians like to wear, black, including shoes (I got some stylish walking shoes already) lots of scarves and the classic black trench coat ... Am I forgetting something??? LOL
Good luck and have fun!!!
Will never be caught holding a backpack in USA or Europe...but I will wear what Parisians like to wear, black, including shoes (I got some stylish walking shoes already) lots of scarves and the classic black trench coat ... Am I forgetting something??? LOL
Good luck and have fun!!!
Mar 20th, 2013, 05:21 AM
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I definitely agree with the money belt, but also have used Pacsafe purses abroad, which give me so much peace of mind. They sell all sorts of interesting "anti-theft" bags (not that any bag is anti-theft, but they include security features that are wonderfully thought out) and other locks and instruments.
I use one similar to this... http://pacsafe.com/citysafe-400-gii-anti-theft-hobo-bag
It has a zipper and a lock on the main compartment, and then a lock on the strap so you can strap it to your chair while you sit (I still recommend keeping it on your lap). There is also metal in the sides so it cannot be cut.
I use one similar to this... http://pacsafe.com/citysafe-400-gii-anti-theft-hobo-bag
It has a zipper and a lock on the main compartment, and then a lock on the strap so you can strap it to your chair while you sit (I still recommend keeping it on your lap). There is also metal in the sides so it cannot be cut.
Mar 20th, 2013, 05:44 AM
#20
Beware of Metro.
Beware of anyone who comes up to you and addresses you in English.
Beware of the It is gold ring scam.
Be careful in the Tuileries and the Eiffel Tower area.
You should be fine.
Thin
Beware of anyone who comes up to you and addresses you in English.
Beware of the It is gold ring scam.
Be careful in the Tuileries and the Eiffel Tower area.
You should be fine.
Thin
