Tag Archives: pickpockets

Looking for an anti-theft crossbody handbag for travel? If you’re planning on traveling finding an anti-theft crossbody handbag is a must. Today’s bags are so well designed that they are a popular choice for nontravelers for use as an everyday bag too.  Anti-theft crossbody bags or purses look like regular bags or purses however, their discreet built-in security features will let you enjoy even the most crowded tourist attractions with peace of mind knowing that your valuables are secure.  Anti-theft crossbody travel bags are practical, comfortable, and can keep your belongings safe from pickpockets with built-in anti-theft features.

The crossbody feature keeps your hands free and the bag secure on your body. The best way to carry your anti-theft crossbody travel purse is so it hangs a little bit in front of you and not bouncing on your back. This provides even more security from street thieves and pickpockets.

 Good Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel Have:

A zipper closure that locks down. The number one feature to keep the hands of a pickpocket out of your bag is a zipper with a zipper pull that locks down with a clip to prevent it from being pulled open. Both Pacsafe and Travelon Bags offer this as a standard issue on their travel bags.

A hidden flexible wire in the strap. A flexible wire embedded in the bag strap prevents slice-and-run theft. Slice-and-run thefts typically happen more in crowds and busy tourist locations. Have peace of mind knowing your strap is slice-resistant.

A panel of wire mesh. Fused in the lower portion of the bag should be a wire mesh that stops bag slashers from cutting through your bag. The most vulnerable part of any bag for this type of crime is the lower and lower sides of the bag. Thieves who cut bags are looking for the bag contents to fall out into the awaiting hands before running off with them.

A pocket with RFID protection. Passports and credit cards contain your personal information embedded inside them. This information can be read by hand-held RFID readers up to 10 feet away and even through your bag. Store your credit cards and passport inside an RFID-blocking pocket of your bag to shield your personal data from theft.

What size handbag are you looking for long & skinny, small, medium, or large? Be like Goldilocks and find the right size for your next trip. Each size can hold a different number of items but they’re all anti-theft to safeguard your valuables.

Long & Skinny Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

1. Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody

This stylish anti-theft crossbody bag converts in size when you need it. The Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody expanded bag fits a tablet, as seen below. Folded down it’s perfect for an evening out.  This bag definitely does double duty. As with all Pacsafe bags, this bag has built-in security features to deter thieves, including digital or e-thieves.

Pacsafe convertible cross body bag, Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

2. Anti-Theft Classic Slim Double Zip Crossbody Bag

This Anti-Theft Classic Slim Double Zip Crossbody hugs your body comfortably. The roomy zip compartment is well thought out with RFID blocking card and passport slots, an open-top wall pocket, a zip wall pocket, and a tethered key clip with LED light. Two locking zip pockets on the front are perfect for keys, lipstick, tickets and other quick-grab items. The rear snap-close pocket holds a map, book, or sunglasses. Travel securely and confidently with Travelon’s anti-theft features including slash-resistant construction, locking compartments, slash-resistant and locking straps to keep you and your belongings protected

Small Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

3. Anti-theft Signature Quilted E/W Slim Bag 

The Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Quilted E/W Slim Bag is perfect for carrying more than just the essentials. Two styles in one bag. It’s a clutch and cross-body bag, depending on the strap you choose. Whether you’re off to work or a day of running errands, you’ll love keeping everything you need in an organized manner. The roomy main compartment features a zippered wall pocket, a tethered key clip with LED light, two drop pockets that are perfect for frequently needed items plus opens wide providing full access. The front locking zipper compartment has a zippered wall pocket, RFID protected Passport pocket and 5 RFID card slots plus room to hold additional items. The front slash pocket keeps your phone accessible and easy to locate. The rear zipper compartment is perfect for travel documents and can hold an iPad Mini. With Anti-Theft features like locking zippers, slash resistant, adjustable straps and body panels and RFID protection that keeps your identity secure from high-tech electronic readers, you can travel safely and securely. This Crossbody bag effortlessly integrates a signature style and is an excellent addition to your accessory collection.

4. Travelon Anti-Theft Boho Slim Crossbody Bag

VIDEO: Perfectly sized, the Anti-Theft Boho Slim Crossbody Bag will go with you long after your travels are over. The locking main compartment has RFID-blocking technology to stop e-thieves from reading your personal information embedded in credit cards and passports. Well thought out compartments will keep your essentials organized and handy and the adjustable slash-resistant strap secures to a stationary object to prevent grab and go theft.

Travelon Anti-Theft Boho Slim Crossbody top trending travel bags

5 Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Crossbody

This Pacsafe bag has an RFID-blocking pocket that protects the personal info embedded in your passport and credit cards plus all the other security features you’ve come to expect from Pacsafe.  You’ll keep using this bag long after your trip is over. CAN BE LOCKED TO FIXTURES – With an adjustable, wire-reinforced anchor strap, the crossbody bag can be secured around a table or chair to keep your belongings secure, to protect your wallet, passport, laptop/tablet and phone where items need to be left unattended.

Medium Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

6. Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag with RFID Protection

The Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody RFID Blocking Bag is a great travel bag when you want style with security and hands-free convenience. Its slim profile and crossbody design is comfortable and looks fashionable no matter what the season, expressly designed to be worn the most secure way which is slung across your body.

Travelon Classic Cross-body bag with RFID best seller trending travel bag

Travelon Classic Cross-body Bag with RFID

7. Anti-theft Signature Quilted Expansion Cross Body Bag

A locking zippered roomy main compartment allows you to take more than just the basics with you. It features 5 RFID blocking card slots, a RFID Passport pocket, a large zippered wall pocket plus a slash pocket that is ideal for glasses, a smartphone or other frequently needed items. It can even fit an iPad. The long, cut-resistant, adjustable strap lets you carry the bag as a crossbody for hands-free convenience, or traditionally over your shoulder. The swivel clasp allows the strap to move freely and it can also be attached to a stationary object to prevent a grab-n-go. With 2 front-locking zippered pockets, a deep rear zippered pocket and a tethered key clip that allows you to easily locate your keys, you will be well organized. Made from durable water & stain resistant nylon and accented in gorgeous antique brass finished hardware.

Best selling top trending anti-theft Boho square Crossbody bag for travel

Travelon Anti-theft Boho Square Crossbody, MORE COLORS

 

8. Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Bag

The Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Bag is a lightweight bag that features 3 locking compartments to provide discreet, yet highly effective protection against pickpockets. The signature pleats on the front & brushed brass zipper accents, add style & and a fashion-forward look, fooling anyone into thinking this is just an everyday bag! The coordinating RFID-blocking travel wallet like the purse can be used long after your trip is over.

3 compartment bag Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbag for Travel

9. Secura™ RFID-Blocking Anti-Theft Cross-Body

This medium-sized bag infuses style and security into what will be your favorite travel bag. Lightweight and with decorative hardware that does double duty as built-in security features. One opening to secure and to hold your essentials for peace of mind. This travel bag is equipped with RFID protected card slots and locking zippers. The adjustable shoulder strap and bag panels contain stainless steel cable and magnaloft fabric providing anti-slash, anti-theft security. Exterior locking pocket for your cell phone. Plenty of room in the interior zipper pockets to safely store your passport, wallet, keys, and more.

Large Anti-theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

10. Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag

This lightweight cross-body bucket bag is very comfortable to wear, it offers a slash-proof strap that can be attached to a post or table with ease. Great size for carrying everyday items as well as a small iPad or reader. The front and main locking compartments offer slash-proof construction for peace of mind along with the RFID reader blocking card slots. The outside mesh panels easily store a water bottle and umbrella. Locking main compartment plus an organization compartment with RFID blocking card and passport slots. Slash-resistant body and adjustable, slash-resistant shoulder strap attaches to chair or post. Front slash pocket, zip rear pocket and removable LED light.

11. Women’s Citysafe CX Anti Theft Convertible Backpack-Fits 10″ Tablet

Two stylish anti-theft bags in one – the city safe CX convertible backpack can be worn as a backpack or fold down to sling over your shoulder as a handbag. There’s room for a wallet, cosmetics case, and more, with zipper security and a cut-resistant anchor strap to keep everything protected.

Final thought for finding a best-selling anti-theft crossbody handbag for travel

When reviewing the various best sellers of travel bags, be sure to focus on anti-theft crossbody handbags for travel. These are proven favorites by seasoned and infrequent travelers alike. Consider if you’ll need a bag that accommodates an umbrella or water bottle or a bag that just keeps your travel wallet, phone, or small camera safe.  One tip when looking at bags online is to have a ruler and one of your current handbags for comparing sizes.

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Finding a pickpocket-proof purse or pickpocket-proof bag for travel is a smart investment for keeping your valuables secure and is your first line of defense against pickpockets and street thieves both at home and while traveling. Wearing a bag crossbody style with the bag hanging in front of you and not resting on your hip or behind makes it very difficult for a thief, no matter how skilled, to pickpocket you. Carrying your anti-theft travel bag in front of you keeps it in view at all times.

Read on to learn how pickpockets operate and which purses thieves like to steal from the most. The Solution? Use an Anti-Theft Travel Purse.  A pickpocket-proof purse easily foils would-be thieves with hidden built-in anti-theft features to help keep your valuables safe.

A Pickpocket-proof Purse is Your Smartest Travel Accessory

Pickpocket-proof purses and bags are available in all sizes, shapes, and designs. Typically the anti-theft features are discreet and incorporated into the bag, so it looks like a regular bag and does not scream tourist. Travel with peace of mind knowing you’re keeping your valuables secure while you enjoy the sights.

Most Important Anti-theft Features of a Good Pickpocket Proof Purse

Locking zippers
Locking zipper pulls lockdown with a clip to the bag to keep pickpockets from pulling them open and lifting your valuables out. This is the single most important feature that makes a travel bag an anti-theft pickpocket-proof purse. Look for the zippers with lock down latches on the main compartment of the bag. Place your wallet, phone, or anything of value inside this compartment and engage the zipper catch to keep the compartment secure.
Detachable strap
Many anti-theft travel bags have a bag strap that unclips from one end of the bag. Use this feature to attach your bag to a chair by unclipping the strap and re-attaching it after threading it through a chair back or another item to prevent grab-and-go thefts.
Slash-proof and crossbody strap
The safest and most convenient style of bag is a crossbody bag that you wear from one shoulder to the opposite hip. A thin flexible wire embedded in the strap makes it slash-resistant to thieves who cut bag straps and then run off with the bag.
Slash proof sides and bottoms
Bag sides and bottoms are the most vulnerable places on your bag for a bag cutter to slice open and pull out your valuables. Having reinforced sides and bottoms is another ingenious feature of pickpocket-proof purses.
RFID blocking material
Many bags have RFID blocking organizational pockets or a pocket lined with RFID blocking material to protect your ID from e-pickpockets. E pickpockets steal your credit card information electronically. A good pickpocket proof purse will include one or more interior pockets lined in RFID blocking material.

Travelon Anti-theft features in travel bags

Best Anti-Theft Bags and Pickpocket Proof Purses

A pickpocket proof purse helps keep pickpockets out and your valuables secure in your bag. These popular pickpocket-proof purses have all the anti-theft features you need for peace of mind. As a bonus, all these styles are designed to be worn crossbody which is more secure than just over one shoulder. All the featured bags have adjustable straps so if you’re tall, short, or somewhere in between the bag can be adjusted to hang at a comfortable length. Be sure you wear your anti-theft bag so it hangs in front of you and not behind you on your hip.

 

 

The Type of Victims Pickpockets Like to Target

Pickpockets look for people who are either distracted or can be easily distracted. People on cell phones, with children, in groups, or others who just aren’t paying enough attention to the people around them often become victims. Tourists are prime targets of street thieves. Another favorite target is those who set their bag down, even right next to themselves, for a grab-and-go theft. You can’t always be vigilant, especially when sightseeing, but you can use anti-theft gear to help thwart thieves and for your peace of mind. Select a pickpocket-proof purse designed with built-in anti-theft features and thwart pickpockets.

Purses That Pickpockets Love to Pick and Steal From

Avoid These Styles of Purses

Open Top Tote Bag  This style of bag is popular today because it’s so versatile, and looks stylish too. Your water bottle, your makeup bag, and other essentials are always handy, that’s the good news. The bad news is your phone, wallet, and other valuables are handy too, not just to you, but to thieves. A skilled pickpocket can reach into a tote resting on the shoulder of a woman and slide out her wallet, phone, or keys without her noticing that anything was removed

Shoulder Bag (one you can’t wear crossbody) Depending on the bag sometimes the top of this kind of purse is left open with no clasp, meaning your wallet is vulnerable, especially if there is enough room at the top to slide a hand into the bag. Otherwise, an enterprising thief can use a box cutter to cut open the back of the bag and remove your wallet through the slit. Stealing a cell phone from this kind of bag is a snap since the pouch for it is usually on the bag’s exterior. Avoid this style of bag for travel unless it has built-in anti-theft features and the bag strap is long enough to wear it crossbody.

Draw String Purse or Bag The drawstring purse is one of the easiest styles for pickpockets to steal from. Some thieves call it “the pickpocket’s best friend.”  Why is this? Simple mechanics really, in many cases drawstring purses are backpacks, which make the removal of items from within even simpler. These bags work by pulling the strings tighter to close the bag and loosening them to open it. Even the most novice thief can remove the wallet from one of these bags. All a thief needs to do is grip the drawstring of the purse and pull down gently, which gets them into the bag. There is no sound when they open the bag, and very little movement is involved which is great since it will leave the victim, or mark, which is the name some professional pickpockets call a victim, completely unaware that a thief just stole their wallet. Usually, the thief and your wallet are long gone before you discover the wallet missing.

Flap Purse The most beloved type of bag for a pickpocket. This type of purse usually contains one large pouch, covered by a flap that often has just a magnet-style closure. They come in all shapes and sizes, but thieves usually prefer the medium and larger-sized ones. The flap purse is still vulnerable even with a button or latch closure. A thief can get close enough to gently but firmly grip the button of the flap with his thumb and index finger and undo it, using his thumb to mask the sound. With a quick motion of the hand,  the prized wallet is in his hand.

Zippered Purse  You think this may be a secure style of bag, well it is, and it’s a bit more difficult than a flap purse to breach, however, this style can be simple for a skilled thief to conquer as well. A good thief can easily slide a zipper open without the wearer feeling it.  A thief will also try to distract you from noticing your zipper being unzipped – they will bump into you, distract you with a question, or use an accomplice to find another way to divert your attention. It only takes 2 seconds. Zipper bags vary and sometimes have multiple pouches, so a thief will often watch to see in which compartment the wallet is placed. The best pocket to carry a wallet is in a zippered pocket in the main compartment of the bag and on the side of the purse closest to the body.  Find an anti-theft zipper travel purse right for you

Clutch Purse This style can be tricky for thieves to pickpocket and it may not have a wallet inside due to its smaller size. That’s the good news. The bad news is once it is out of your hand, for even a second, the entire handbag is taken. This is a risky style to carry.

Side Flap A side flap purse is usually a medium to small purse that has one large compartment and one flap to close it up. This means one thin piece of fabric is all that is between your wallet and a thief, who can simply place his thumb over the clasp and then unbutton it. The real reason why this is on the list is because while walking this type of purse tends to “slide” to the back of your hip, placing it right in front of the opportunistic thief that is behind you

 

More Anti-Theft Travel Handbags and Pickpocket Proof Purses 

These pickpocket-proof purses also offer a full suite of anti-theft features. Even though they are anti-theft handbags they are ideal for around town too. The security features offered by all these travel bags include locking zippers to keep prying hands out. Most feature RFID-lined pocket(s) to protect the personal information stored on your credit cards and passport from being read by e-readers. The shoulder straps have a latch for detaching the strap and wrapping it around a fixed item like a chair back to prevent snatch-and-run thieves.


Fixed Pickpocket Proof Bags

Fanny Pack This style of bag can be just as easy to pick as your pocket. A good thief will simply press up against the victim, unbuckle the pack from the rear, and pass the fanny pack on to someone else. Sometimes, much like with wallets, the mark will still “feel” the bag on their body so they won’t even know that they have been victimized. Often thieves look for bags worn slightly to either side, then, masking their hand, slowly unzip the large compartment and remove the cash or wallet.

On the flip side, a fanny pack or waist pack is also a great way to carry your camera and other items you don’t want to put in your pocket or carry by hand. It’s all about choosing the right style of anti-theft waist pack that will provide hands-free freedom plus security for your valuables. The best security waist packs have locking zippers to stop a pickpocket from unzipping the waist pack, wire embedded into the back strap to stop someone from cutting the rear strap from behind, as well as metal mesh embedded into the material to stop bag cutters. All these anti-theft features guard your gear and give you peace of mind. Choose a style right for your needs.

How to spot a pickpocket travel scams in Europe

Young man taking a wallet from the backpack of a man walking on the street during the daytime.

Backpacks/Daypacks A thief really needs two things to handle backpacks, proximity and the ability to find the wallet quickly. Many daypacks have a drawstring and a button, and pickpockets will often look for one with the button undone or an unsecured flap. Don’t travel with this type of bag. The best travel backpacks have zippers that lockdown plus other anti-theft features. You really need to travel with one of these newer styles with a full suite of anti-theft features for peace of mind.

Backpack Purse Here is another pickpocket’s dream come true, a woman’s purse completely beyond her field of vision. Most backpack purses open with a clasp, the same as a flap purse, but there are some with straps or both. A pickpocket will wait until the victim is right in front of him and then gently unbuckle the strap or loosen the drawstring, which will open the purse wide. If done gently and quickly enough, the mark won’t notice because the back has fewer nerve endings than anywhere else.

Small Backpack Thieves also favor small backpacks because they are easy to open when out of the wearer’s sight. The lack of contact with the body and the lower density of nerves in the back make these bags an appealing target. It’s also easier to find the wallet quickly since it is a smaller area to search through. Security style backpacks for women and men

Unattended Bags A thief considers any unattended bag fair game. The most common places for women to leave their bags unattended are in grocery stores, restaurants, and in theaters. This is where using the strap to attach the bag to the cart handle, chair arm or chair back comes in handy.

pickpocket stealing from a back pocketPockets

Jacket Pockets Anything of value seen hanging out of a jacket pocket will soon vanish, and the most tempting item is loose cash. Wallets are just as easily plucked out, as well as cell phones or anything else that might be there. Our advice, place valuables in pockets that are not visible such as inside your jacket.

Back Pockets This is the sucker pocket, and anything carried in a back pocket is easily stolen. This is a favorite pocket for phones and wallets. Don’t use it, especially in a crowd. Use your front pants pocket. Even better, use a money belt tucked under your shirt. If you prefer something larger, then select a pickpocket-proof purse. Get a small one that you can wear as a crossbody bag for hands-free convenience.

Top Scams Pickpockets Use to Steal Purses

Kick the Purse When a woman sits down at a table or bar she’ll often set her bag on a nearby chair or on the floor beside her. If it’s on the floor, a thief may wait until she is engrossed in either talking or eating. The purse thief will then casually walk past her table and gently kick the purse away from the table. Then he’ll pick it up and tuck it away, or if the thief is a female, sling it over her shoulder as if it is hers. Small bags are usually taken this way.

Gas Station Ruse Many women fall victim to theft at gas stations. Their car is usually unlocked while pumping gas and they typically face the pump, not watching their valuables inside the vehicle. Thieves have perfected a few rip-offs at gas stations. The first is simply to open a woman’s car door while she is looking at the pump. The second is to steal her bag while she runs in quickly to pay. The third is to involve her in a distraction, either trouble with the pump, or to ask for directions. While she is distracted, an accomplice steals the bag from the car. Our tip, keep your car door locked, or wear your bag crossbody style when you’re outside of the vehicle.

The Swarm This theft involves a team of crooks that use a crowded section of a city that is full of tourists. The crooks know the escape routes and the attractions that distract tourists most such as famous buildings, fountains, etc. Spreading out from key vantage points, one will alert the other when a mark is spotted.  The mark is an engrossed tourist who won’t even know what hit him while he consults a map or takes a photo. In a flash, a couple of people will bump into him talking loudly, and the next thing he knows his wallet, travel bag, or passport is stolen.

The Mommy Set Up A thief thinks of taking your possessions as a job. He probably tells himself that anyone who would be careless with their money or purse or wallet doesn’t deserve them. Some of them target playground areas where mothers take their children. The purse thief will look for two moms talking or perhaps a distracted mom on her phone. He then does something to make her child cry. Maybe take the child’s ball or throw sand on them. He knows the mother’s instinct for her child is greater than for her purse or shopping bags.

Once the mom rushes over, the thief will help himself to her wallet or bag, fading quickly out of sight. Women blend in better at a playground or park with children and they make less obvious thieves. Our tip: always wear your bag crossbody style, don’t leave it next to you

Restroom Snatch Have you ever noticed that purse hooks in restrooms are up high on the door? This gives easy access for a female thief to reach over the stall and be gone before you can react; throwing your purse over her shoulder like it belongs to her. An alternative theft is to take the wallet out of the snatched bag and to quickly throw the purse back over the stall, to startle you. Another way this theft is carried out is to place the stolen purse into a larger store shopping bag and walk nonchalantly among the shoppers of the mall or travelers at the airport.

Out of the Blue Densely populated cities, especially in Italy, are known for the occasional but shocking slash and grab theft from mopeds or bikes. The riders look for a woman walking near the edge of the sidewalk with her purse on her shoulder, closest to the street.  As the thief drives by the victim from behind, he grabs the purse off her shoulder and speeds away.  Some thieves have been known to have an accomplice who rides on the back of the motorbike, and it is their job to complete the purse snatching, leaving the driving to the other thief.

In some shocking cases, they even use a knife to slash the strap. The key to this type of theft is finding a woman walking with the flow of traffic, and not facing it, so she cannot anticipate a thief riding a bike up from behind her.  See the best selection of security travel purses and handbags to help you keep your possessions secure.

Pickpocket-proof purses are also known as anti-theft bags, theft-proof purses, and security travel bags. A few of our favorite brands that make anti-theft travel bags are Travelon, Pacsafe, Lewis N Clark, Baggallini, and Sherpani.

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In Paris Don’t Fall for the – Fake Petition Scam

The fake petition scam has been going on in France, Italy, and Spain for years because it is so successful. It’s a scam many first time visitors fall for because it starts out as what appears to be a legitimate conversation with a friendly local.  You will usually find con-artists with clipboards at many of the larger metropolitan tourist destinations.

How the Fake Petition Scam Works

The con-artists target single travelers, couples, and small groups of tourists.  If you are or see that you are about to be approached by clipboard-wielding young man or woman who greets you with a smile and genuine interest – know that you are very possibly being set up for any number of scams to relieve you of your money. After you sign the petition (and there are many compelling reasons or causes to sign) they pester you sometimes to the point of intimidation to make a “donation” now that you signed the form.

Fake Petition Scam

Fake Petition Scam

Victimized travelers have many different variations of how they fell victim to a scammer who targeted them with the “fake petition” scam – with some of the interactions being very unpleasant.  The best advice is to avoid the fake petition scam in the first place. If anyone approaches you holding a clipboard, or holding a piece of paper that may even remotely look like a petition, do not let them engage you in conversation. Simply say firmly “non merci” and walk away. If necessary be rude, and do not let them engage you in conversation, because if you do, you might end up like the man in the video below.

The scam works this way. Once you sign what you think is a petition, the scammer will insist that you make a donation to whatever cause the petition is for. If you don’t give a “donation” the scammer will point to the paper you signed that says you have agreed to give a donation. If you still don’t give a donation, the scammer comes up with another trick, they will tell you that if you don’t give a donation they (the scammer – or as they may call themselves “petitioner” will have to personally give the pledge money to the cause you signed for. If you resist, other youths may come to their aid as a way to pressure you to pay. The scene can escalate from there in various manners, including the use of other thieves who may try to steal your bag as you are distracted by the argument.

How Fake Petitioners Operate to Rip Off Unsuspecting Travelers

Another variation is that the scammer targets unsuspecting tourists who are sitting down at a café table. The scammer looks specifically for someone who may have a cell phone or camera on the table and uses the fake petition scam as a distraction to steal it. The thief’s job is that when they walk up to your table, they need to engage you in conversation while they put their clipboard or papers on top of your phone or camera. The thief tries to do this in a way that you won’t notice what they are doing – again facilitated by engaging you in a verbal conversation.

After a short conversation, and with the hope that you were also able to get you to “donate” to their scam cause, the thief walks away with your cell phone or camera under their clipboard or other paperwork. Most of the time, these thieves are so skilled that it takes victims some time to realize they have been ripped off. The lesson learned here is to keep your guard up against overly friendly strangers and always be aware of your possessions when they are sitting on a table. A defensive strategy for travel is to always place your phone or wallet while sitting a table into an anti-theft waist pack.  You can reach for it easily, but no one else can.

Don’t Be a Target – Learn From Others and Don’t Fall Victim to the Fake Petition Scam

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Travelers are targets for savvy pickpockets and thieves. Tourist season is their busy season That’s why you need to pack pickpocket-proof clothing for travel. Now your clothing can function as what separates you from a pickpocket. Scarves, pants, shirts, socks, and underwear now have discreet and hidden pockets designed to hold valuables close and secure.  These clever travel clothes make great bon voyage gifts too. Here are a few of our favorite items.

infinity travel scarf with hidden pocket

Made with soft and durable fabric the hidden pocket on this infinity travel scarf fits an iPhone+ and your passport. The key to this stylish scarf is the fabric, too flimsy and the loaded pocket weighs down the scarf, too stiff and your comfort is compromised. This one is just right and is available in many colors.

Scotte Vest 16 pocket feather weight vest

Made by ScotteVest this Featherweight Vest has 16 pockets! You’d never know it the design is superior and even boasts an RFID blocking pocket to keep e-pickpockets from stealing your personal information.  Breeze through airport security and TSA checkpoints by storing all your electronics, documents, gadgets and accessories in this lightweight breathable vest. Simply unzip the vest, take it off and walk through security without having to unload everything! Going through airport security has never been this easy!

 


pickpocket proof underwear

 

Comfortable, made of 95% cotton and 5% spandex this style of boxer-briefs has zippered pockets for maximum security. Why wouldn’t you invest a few extra dollars to protect your passport or phone? There are other pocket designs which rely on compression alone to secure your contents. Our tip, buy a few pairs and hand wash in the sink of your hotel every other day. Not just for travel but ideal for amusement parks, festivals, bike riding or any activity where your keys or wallet may accidentally fall out of your pockets. 100% Pick-pocket proof. Completely invisible to thieves. Comfortable styles with pockets placed for comfort. Men’s underwear with two pickpocket proof pockets come in a comfortable boxer brief style.

 

pickpocket proof shorts

 Utility shorts with 8 pockets, designed to be gadget friendly and tech savvy! Loaded with pockets designed to hold phones, wallets, keys, drone accessories, sunglasses, camera equipment and much more. These multi-pocketed shorts can be fully loaded with hiking accessories, golf balls & tees, extra lenses, everyday items and more! The hidden pockets help to conceal your valuables and stop thieves dead in their tracks! Secure your belongings while traveling or commuting to prevent being the target of pickpockets and theft. Eight pockets with two accessible only from the inside protect your gear. The pocket distribution makes sure you’re not weighed down and decreases the bulk-pocket look. A choice of three different colors.

pickpocket proof waist band

A travel or sports waistband. You can wear it under a shirt or with leggings. Double the width of other Fanny Packs and Money Belts, this Waist Pack for men and women is constructed with 2 large pockets in the front and 2 in the back, each pocket 6” high x 8” wide; the fabric stretches vertically to 7-inches high to accommodate medical devices and Insulin Pumps. Made in the USA with the highest quality sport technology fabric and discreet logo:  Made of top grade spandex that stretches and stays in place.pickpocket proof jacket women

 The Penny Coat has all the hidden pocket storage you’ve come to love from SCOTTeVEST. Conceal your valuables in your inner vest pockets to prevent being the target of a pickpocket and theft. Additionally, the inner hidden network of conduits let you connect your devices within the tech friendly vest without tangled messy wires. Charge multiple devices and listen to music all while keeping devices concealed and safe from view. Breeze through airport security and TSA checkpoints by storing all your electronics, documents, gadgets and accessories in this penny coat. Simply unzip the coat, take it off and walk through security without having to unload everything! Going through airport security has never been this easy!

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Electonic pickpocketing RFID pickpockets, digital thieves, rfid blocking wallets

You may think of a pickpocket as a person that bumps into you to steal your wallet, but now there’s a different kind of pickpocketing and it’s called electronic pickpocketing. How do electronic pickpockets work, and why can they be so devastating?  Tech-savvy RFID pickpockets, which are also known as “digital thieves,” can silently download your personal credit card information and ID data with handheld “skimming” devices, including some newer cell phones, that are simply held close to your wallet or purse.

Yes, your personal information on the RFID chip embedded in your credit card and passport transmits through a wallet or purse.  Why is this possible? It’s possible because many of the newly issued credit cards, driver’s licenses and all passports now have embedded RFID chips.

Do RFID Wallets Stop Electronic Pickpocketing

RFID chips send out electromagnetic signals with all the information stored on the card for electronic readers to capture.  In the case of your passport, they can even broadcast your photo. RFID technology is a good thing, but in the hands of RFID pickpockets, it can be devastating. So how do you protect yourself from electronic RFID pickpockets who use electronic readers?  You need to use RFID-blocking wallets, purses, or other RFID-blocking gear. These items have metal fibers woven inside of them to block the RFID transmissions. You could also wrap your cards in foil to stop transmission, but that is inconvenient and cumbersome. So yes, RFID-blocking wallets can protect your identity from falling into the hands of thieves, crooks, and scam artists.

Protect Your Identity & Personal Information with RFID Blocking Gear

The latest travel wallets, purses, backpacks, and other gear have RFID shielding built into the material of the product for your security and peace of mind. Wallets, bags, and backpacks that contain this RFID blocking material look like ordinary wallets and purses. Depending on their design, the product may entirely have RFID shielding,  or may just have dedicated pockets to RFID shielding. It is in these RFID blocking pockets where you would place your wallet or other digital ID. You are most vulnerable to pickpockets, both regular and electronic, in crowded situations or in places where you place your things down like hanging your bag on the back of a chair in a restaurant. The results of being electronically pickpocketed can be devastating, so consider outsmarting the bad guys with RFID blocking gear. For your peace of mind, see an extensive collection of RFID blocking travel gear.

 

Stop electronic pickpocket with RFID Blocking Money Belt Travel Pouch Waist Stash + Credit Card, Id, Passport Holder

RFID blocking money belt. Hidden under your shirt it’s easy for you to access, but not thieves.

What is RFID and Why Do I Need to Block it?

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification Devices. Today they are found in passports and credit cards to help speed up transactions. They transmit your account information plus personal details.  Handheld scanners can read these chips through wallets and clothing up to several feet away.  It is a form of electronically pickpocketing or identity theft.  Newly issued credit cards, passports, and other IDs have embedded RFID chips.

Do RFID Wallets and other RFID blocking bags stop pickpockets?  Yes, You can protect your personal data with the use of RFID blocking wallets and RFID blocking passport covers. These items contain a metal fiber mesh that makes a “cage” around the chip that radio waves cannot penetrate. All US Passports issued since October 2006 have RFID chips in them. The chip contains all the data that is on the first page including your photo. A growing number of states (New York, Michigan, Washington, Vermont) are now issuing special driver’s licenses “enhanced” with long-range RFID chips.

How Does RFID Work?

RFID, Radio Frequency Identification, is the technology that lets you simply wave your credit or identification card, passport or license in front of a nearby scanner instead of having to slide the magnetic stripe through it. The electronic scanner sends a signal which is received by an antenna embedded into the card, which is connected to the card’s RFID chip, thus activating it. Unfortunately, criminals with minimal technical skills can construct their own clandestine RFID readers with a few simple supplies. These devices can steal your private financial information quickly and silently—all the perpetrator needs to do is come near your wallet with the hidden card reader.

Electronic pickpocketing RFID Pickpockets can read rfid chipped credit cards

Credit cards have RFID chips

Does my Card Have an RFID Chip?

This is the important part if your card is equipped with PayWave or blink, indicated by a logo on the front or back of the card, then it has an RFID chip embedded in it. The absence of a PayPass logo, however, does not mean that your card does not have an RFID chip—call the customer service number on the back of your card. If you cannot get an answer from your bank you should protect your cards anyway to ensure that you do not fall victim to identity theft.  Imagine how the theft of your identity while traveling could negatively impact your trip! You should be concerned if you carry an American Express Card, Visa, Discover, MasterCard or a passport.

Here’s the best and latest selection of RFID blocking wallets and gear to stop electronic pickpocketing.

Video Demonstration of RFID Pickpockets

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Beware of the Lost-Found Gold Ring Scam

The “lost ring” scam is one of the oldest and most famous of the tourist scams in Paris, France and has now spread all across Europe where many tourists gather. There are several versions of this scam and its delivery is dependent on the scam artist or thief presenting the scam. One common thread is that always the story told by the con artist ends in asking for a few Euros in exchange for you keeping the gold ring.

How the Con Works

In essence, the “lost ring” or “found ring” scam, is based on the simple act of duping the target to believe that this is their lucky day. The scam can be targeted to anyone, but almost always a traveler. The scammer walks up next to you and quickly bends down and picks up a ring on the ground (that they placed prior to walking over it.) The ring is often a gold men’s wedding band.

The scammer (often a woman) then offers to give you the ring but asks for a small amount of money in exchange for doing so. She pleads that she has no money or job and would appreciate a few Euros in trade for the gold ring.

Another “reason” to give you the band is that she has no husband, or that her husband already wears a gold band and has no use for this one.

Some con-artists claim that it is against their religion to wear jewelry and that is why they want you to have it.

She continues on saying that the ring is worth a lot of money and it is your lucky day because she only wants a few euros in exchange for the ring. She pressures you into thinking that you are doing a kindness by giving her a few Euros. Laying on to her plea for a few Euros is that if she has a young child at her side making her look more honest or needy.

In reality, the ring is worthless and made of cheap brass – but it looks like gold.

Variations of the “Lost Ring Scam”

Some victims of this scam have reported that the scammer begins to yell if you don’t give them a finders fee. Other variations have included a few accomplices who just “happen” to be walking by and verbally support the fact that the ring is valuable and you are very lucky to have found it.

The best course of action in these cases is to simply walk away and try not to engage them in a conversation.

Videos of the Famous Paris Found Gold Ring Scam

What to Do if  You’re a Target of This Street Scam

If you are approached by someone handing you a gold ring, the best thing to do is to walk away, and not engage with the scammer. Be prepared that they may yell at you and accuse you of stealing from them, even if you didn’t take the ring. Their motive is to get you to give them money so they will go away. Don’t cave in to their bullying and public shaming tactics. Remember they are the bad guy, not you.

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Tourists love to visit the Eiffel Tower at night, and that’s why there are pickpockets at the Eiffel Tower at night, too.

Many tourists visit the surrounding area of the Eiffel Tower at night to see it lit up with strobe lights and enjoy the tower’s nighttime ambiance. The benefit of visiting the tower late in the evening is that there are smaller crowds and shorter lines which make the ascent more pleasant. What attracts tourists is that the entire Eiffel tower is cloaked in the warm glow of 336 light projectors and 20,000 sparkling strobe lights – see the below video. From the tower’s observation decks, you can enjoy cool evening breezes as you view floodlit bridges, churches, and other landmarks in the glittering Parisian lightscape. Visiting the Eiffel Tower at night is a beautiful way to appreciate Paris which is known as the city of lights.

Planning Your Nighttime Visit at the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is open until 11:45 p.m or 12:45 a.m., depending on the time of year. Entrance fees vary, depending on whether you’re climbing the steps or taking the elevator. However, make sure to check with their website, as this time and availability changes due to special events, holidays, as well as recent issues with political and terrorism concerns.

Pickpocket activity on the way to the Eiffel Tower

For years, pickpockets, both professional and opportunists, have known that a great spot to target the pockets and handbags of tourists is the subway metro lines 1 and 4, but more importantly, the main stretch of pavement from the Champ-de-Mars-Bir Hakeim metro and RER station to the Eiffel Tower.  This area is where most of the tourists will get on and off the metro to walk to the tower. These specific locations were brought to the public’s attention when an undercover police story broke about the arrest of numerous young girls who were all pickpockets working in these locations.  In December, Paris police arrested 19 people believed to be the ringleaders in a major pickpocketing operation on the Paris public transport network.  These thieves targeted the metros and stops favored by tourists – as well as the walkway to the Eiffel Tower.

Authorities say the gang is responsible for about two-thirds of thefts on the metro and has netted at least €1.3m. The Paris police judiciaire has been working with Spanish and Italian authorities for the past three years to track down the leaders, who recruited 100 young girls from eastern Europe.  Investigators believe the girls were threatened with violence if they failed to reach their daily targets, typically between €300 and €1,000 ($300-$1,060).  This is a sad story, but one that all travelers need to be aware of.  Many people make a living as pickpockets – both young and old, and in order for them to do so, someone – especially unknowing tourists will end up falling victim to these individuals.  Let’s hope that reading these pages on how to identify pickpockets will give you enough insight so your trip to Paris will only be great memories of famous locations, great food, and interesting sights – not the lobby of a Paris police station making a report for having your wallet stolen.

Pickpocket Activity at the Eiffel Tower

Pickpocket Sign at the Eiffel Tower

Pickpocket Sign at the Eiffel Tower

Many tourists who visit the Eiffel Tower at nightfall victim to pickpockets. The strobes come on for about 10 minutes every hour to illuminate the Tower and that attracts the tourists, and the tourists attract the thieves. The pickpockets use a variety of distractions to target tourists such as asking for directions, asking the time, where the subway is in the area, as well as other common pickpocket distractions.

Visitors should also be aware that the Eiffel Tower operating company knows about the pickpocket problem too – and even documents that they are not responsible for theft due to pickpocket activity when visiting the tower.  The company may not be held liable for theft (from pickpockets), loss or damage of any kind, during a visit”  is a quote from their website. While this is normal for any business that is open to the public, having a quote that specifically makes reference to “pickpockets” is not. This in itself should alert you to take additional precautions.

Pickpockets operate at a variety of locations at the Eiffel Tower.  One of the most obvious indicators will be one of the numerous “beware of pickpocket” signs you will see at the base of the tower, right before you enter the Eiffel Tower elevators, within some of the elevators, as well as around the various observation decks.

Another location where pickpockets find their marks is the line for the women’s rooms at the base of the Eiffel Tower.  Sometimes the line is very long, and once you get farther down into the bathroom area, the size of the corridors becomes narrow.  Many tourists have reported thefts at this location, as well as while using the restroom at this location.  This photo shows the pickpocket warning on the way down to the toilets.

Eiffel Tower Stairs and Pickpockets

If you elect not to wait for the Eiffel Tower elevator to take you back down due to the long, crowded lines, many tourists elect to walk down the stairs. Generally, walking down the Eiffel Tower’s stairs is not a great idea. While it may seem like a good idea initially, many pickpockets like to work the stairwell knowing that it is an easy location to target unsuspecting tourists. The stairwell is packed with tourists, going both ways. It is not very wide, so you are forced to bump into people during your journey. Many tourists have reported that they fell victim to pickpockets walking down the Eiffel Tower when they were targeted by pickpockets using the following pickpocket scam.

As you make your descent down the Eiffel Tower stairwell, about a 1/4 of the way down, the pedestrian crowd starts to back-up. You are forced to walk slower and begin to enter a packed crowd walking close together. A small group of people in front of you begin to walk very slow. It can be men or women, but many times it seems that the group is young women. The women stop short, causing you to bump into them.  One of the girls begins to yell at you, while other women pickpockets are behind you and naturally bump into you. Everyone is trying to pass you, but you are held up by this unruly group of girls.

As many people try to pass you, items are removed from your pockets, purse of daypack.  The same type of thieves do the same going up the Eiffel Tower.  Think about this for a second, other than someone who wants one heck of a good workout, who walks up the Eiffel Tower, except someone up to no good.

Gold Ring Scam

Always be on the lookout for the Gold Ring Scam at the Eiffel Tower, or anywhere in Europe for that matter – but it does seem to hit the most in Paris.

Honesty and Lost Rings in Paris

The scam works like this.  You are walking in Paris when a man, woman, or child crosses your path and suddenly stops and bends over, picking up a shiny object on the sidewalk.  Many tourists think that the person is picking up a bottle cap or some other junk.  That’s when the scam begins. Here is a sample conversation that has been repeated to thousands of tourists every year:lost found ring scam

Excusez-moi, Monsieur. Vous avez laissé votre bague ici.” He showed me a large gold wedding band.
“What? No, it is not my ring, Monsieur.”
Mais oui, c’est à vous.”
Mais non. I have no ring.”
Mais oui, it is your ring. Well, if it is not then give it to your woman. It will make her happy. It is a woman’s ring.”
He hands me the ring. Indeed it is heavy. Apparently gold. “Um, no. It is not mine.”
“I cannot wear it. I am a man,” he said. “Give it to your woman.” He turned and walked away.
“Well, OK. Merci, Monsieur.” I turned and walked away.
He turns again. “Ah, Monsieur. S’il vous plait. I am hungry. I don’t have enough money for a baguette.”
“Um. OK. Take some change.” Hmm. He is honest but only needs money for a baguette. I gave him a few coins from the change still in my hand.
“No, that is not enough. Just a little more. I gave you the ring.”
“Well, OK, here is two euros but nothing more.” And I walk away.

You just fell victim to the “gold ring scam.”

Video of the Gold Ring Scam in Paris

The below video was shot by a family visiting Paris.  Wait for a few seconds and you will see a young man stop in front of the boy, bend over, and pick up the “gold ring” and try the scam. This family was smart and moved on.  But at least you have an idea of how innocent this scam looks when it happens.

Other Paris Tourist Scam

Dancing doll scam.  You will find this scam on the streets of Paris.  It looks like these dolls magically dance, but don’t be fooled and keep a hand on your wallet or bag.

“I am from Bosnia – Do you speak English scam”
This is a classic setup scam used around the world.  Gangs of women roam around beneath the tower. They usually wear bright clothing, long skirts, maybe even a flower in their hair. Their approach is usually to ask if you speak English. If you acknowledge them, they hand you a white card. On it is written how they have escaped from Bosnia (or another country) with their brother, they are homeless and need help, and can you spare any change? So what do you do? Appear hard-hearted and tell them you don’t have anything? Or give them something? Meanwhile, while you are distracted by reading their card, any unprotected belongings are rifled by an accomplice. Given there are large numbers of these women, all carrying white cards, there must be a lot of homeless Bosnian siblings in Paris. Best to wave them away as soon as they approach you and they quickly go off seeking another victim. We were approached at least twice on each visit to the tower.

“Crippled old lady” scam

You may come across an old woman, painfully bent over and using a child’s crutch with a begging bowl out. Watch for long enough, and you will see her make a miraculous recovery, put the crutch under her arm, and stroll casually away with her “earnings”. Best to ignore her and keep walking.

“Praying to my cup” scam
This one was actually more common on the Champs Elysee but if frequently found at the tower base. A woman with a headscarf will be kneeling in silent prayer before a cup on the ground. Watch long enough, and you will see her get up, walk with her cup to a nearby accomplice, casually tip her “earnings” into his bag, then go to another spot to take up her position of prayer once again. Best to ignore her and keep walking.

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The Best Money Belts to Hide Money, Credit Cards, and Passports

Travel Smart and Keep Valuables Close and Secure

The best travel money belt is a security money belt or pouch and it can be your most important travel accessory, especially when visiting busy and popular tourist attractions. It is in these locations where pickpockets and thieves target tourists. Shield and protect your valuables from pickpockets, distraction thieves, and snatch and run crooks with a hidden money belt, security neck, or body pouch. A money belt depending on its size and design is used to hide money, cash, passports, identification, and other valuables that you don’t want to lose.

 What is a Money Belt?

A money belt is a personal item and is not a “one size fits all” by any means. The best money belt designs have anti-theft technology and offer various designs and sizes, so you’re sure to find one just right for you. Now you have a choice of traditional belts with a zipper to hold just bills, wallets you wear on your leg, and wallets you hide under pants. There are even more styles which you wear around your neck or waist and tucked under clothing. Enjoying water sport or the beach? No problem, you can choose from a variety of completely waterproof styles of money belts so you can swim and play in the water while keeping your passport and other valuables close and dry!

Read on to learn about the various types of best money belts and secret wallets available with anti-theft features. The latest styles of neck and body pouches have RFID blocking material lined pockets to stop identity theft by tech-savvy thieves.

Why Use a Money Belt?

You want to select a money belt for a sense of security and peace of mind, and to protect your money and other smaller valuables from thieves. Money belts also keep your hands free so you can do more, as you don’t need to hold or worry about a bag. Bottom line – A money belt is the best investment you’ll make costing you only $10- $35.

What are the Pros and Cons of Travel Money Belts and Pouches, Neck Pouches, or Waist Wallets?

Waist Style or Under-Clothing Money Belt

Best money belt Breathable and flat money belt

Breathable and flat money belt to wear under clothes

This style of money belt can be worn either tightly against the stomach with your shirt or blouse covering it or dropped loosely into your pants below your waistband. If you are going to purchase one of these – give strong consideration to a money belt that has a steel cable embedded within the rear strap so it cannot be cut by a sneak thief from behind and pulled off.  There are several popular styles of waist wallets with built-in anti-theft features such as RFID blocking to guard your passport, credit cards, and identity. Consider what you’ll be securing in your money and select a style with the appropriate number of pockets to keep your valuables handy and organized.

Tips for Wearing a Money Belt

  1. The safest way to wear a waist wallet or money belt is tucked inside your pants. The strap should fit loose enough to tuck below your pant waistband so that is not visible. The pouch should also be tucked into your pants. If you choose to wear the waist wallet outside of your pants make sure your shirt is long enough to cover the money belt from view. Try this at home before you pack.
  2. If you wear your shirt un-tucked, be aware that a professional pickpocket could bump into you in a crowd, lift your shirt, cut the rear strap, and flee with the belt in a matter of seconds. An embedded steel cable in the waistband makes this type of theft impossible. Alternately keeping the money belt strap tucked below the waistband of your pants protects you from this type of theft too.

Best Money Belt for Runners

The best money belt for a runner is slim and fitted to the body to prevent bouncing. The beauty of this belt is that it can be worn when not exercising too while walking around town and sight-seeing during travel.

best money belt for runnersBest money belt for runners

Best Full-Sized Money Belt

This money belt fits 3 passports easily, has RFID protection, and is water-resistant. What’s more, the money belt strap is elastic for comfort and to fit a variety of waists. See more colors by clicking on the image.

Best full size money belt

Check price for the best full size money belt

Best High-Tech Money Belt with Theft Insurance

This money belt is made by Peak Gear of 210D ripstop nylon so it is lightweight and durable. Besides having built-in RFID blocking technology this money belt also includes 2 global recovery tags that you attach to valuables like your phone or passport. Attach the tags to your phone, passport, camera, etc. If the protected items are ever lost and found, ReturnMe’s 24/7 call center will help get the items back to your door, from anywhere in the world. There is NO additional cost. This comfortable and slim belt is the perfect travel accessory with adjustable straps that fit both women and men. The moisture-wick backing will keep the pouch cool against your skin, especially useful for all day use or in warm climates.

 Peak Gear Travel Money Belt. Premium Quality Travel Wallet with RFID Blocking Fabric to Protect Credit Cards, Passports and Documents

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Best Hidden Wallet – Belt Loop Wallet

Belt money belt loop wallet for travel

Slide your belt through the loop and wear it tucked inside your pants. Easy to pull out while it remains on your belt.

We think a belt loop wallet is a great style of travel wallet if your wear a belt. This style of money belt is a single pouch that hangs inside your pants from your belt or belt loop. It is usually made out of nylon or cotton and has one or two zippered compartments. It is very easy to slide out and tuck back in. This is an extremely secure way to carry cash and cards since it is attached to your belt. Some designs are large enough to hold your passport, money, and a credit card.  Many designs offer two different colored belt loops (black and brown) to blend in with your belt, so it is not so obvious that you have a belt-secured wallet. A popular design is this belt loop wallet because it is completely hidden with zippered compartments to secure contents.

All About Neck Wallets – Money Belt Alternative

Travelers have relied on neck wallets, often referred to as a security neck pouch or neck safe for years.  They are one of the most common and secure types of money pouches and are highly recommended by experienced travelers. Quality neck pouches are made with soft moisture-wicking fabric for comfort.

However, neck wallets do have some drawbacks. A neck pouch hangs under your clothes, and the biggest complaint is that depending on the type of shirt or blouse worn, it may take a while to get to it when needed.

Best money belt Underclothing security neck wallet pouch

Underclothing security neck pouch.

You do not want people to see that you are wearing a money pouch around your neck whenever possible. Neck pouches are designed to be flat and not bulky, even though a tight-fitting top will reveal that you’re wearing a neck pouch, so look for one with a long strap so that you can lengthen it and wear it lower towards the stomach. Lowering it also makes it easier to access because you just need to lift up the bottom of your shirt. The bottom line is even if noticeable, a neck wallet is a great security wallet because no pickpocket or thief can reach through your shirt and get at the contents.

Considerations for a Neck Wallet or Body Pouch

  1. When worn for long periods of time, you may be aware of it more than other money belts.
  2. When considering the purchase of a neck pouch, think about one in a tan or beige color.  A black one may be easily seen if you are wearing light-colored clothing and thereby calling attention to it.
  3. Always purchase a quality neck pouch that has some type of inner liner. The inner liner works as a moisture barrier to protect contents.
  4. Consider how you will retrieve items from the neck pouch. If you are wearing it when you go to dinner at a nice restaurant, will you have to excuse yourself to the restroom in order to unbutton your shirt to retrieve your money or credit cards? This may not be a problem if you are a student and backpacking your way across Europe, but for others, you may want to consider another style or plan ahead and tuck what you need in a secure pocket.
  5. A thief may recognize the pouch strap around your neck (they are not that hard to recognize) and a non-reinforced strap can be easily cut from behind by a skilled pickpocket and then pulled off your body. Therefore, the best type of neck pouch to wear is one that has a wire woven throughout the length of the strap. That way your property is better protected from snatch and run thieves. This is one of our favorite styles of neck wallet or neck pouch to recommend.

Pacsafe anti theft best neck pouch wallet for travelCheck price guide to best money belts trael neck pouch

Leg Pouch Money Belt

This device straps around your calf, or like the photo here slides on like a sock to stay secure. Leg safes have pockets in the sock sleeve where you place your money and passport, so it’s a money belt too. Leg safes or leg wallets are adjustable to fit most leg sizes and, of course, need to be worn only when you’re wearing long pants. These are ideal “second wallets” when you want to split up where you carry your valuables.

Classic Money Belt

Always popular when looking for a dressy option, this is a real hold-up-your-pants leather money belt with a zippered compartment on the inside that stores a dozen currency notes. It’s a proven favorite for the holidays! Classic money belts only conceal cash. They do not conceal passports or credit cards.

Best Leather Money Belt

On the inside of the belt is a slim zippered compartment that remains hidden from view. The hidden money belt was made to keep your cash hidden and safe from sly pickpockets. Designed to look like a regular belt, these types of money belts come in a more finished look. They can be worn with a dress or casual pants, as well as shorts, and not look out of place.

Hidden Money Pocket Travel Leather Belt

Check price best leather money belt

Airport-Friendly TSA Money Belts Won’t Set Off Metal Detectors

Designed to help save time and hassle from going through security checkpoints and metal detectors at airport screening stations. TSA beep free belts are made of nylon webbing, non-metal buckles, and non-metal zippers. The buckle (the part that sets off most metal detectors) is made out of a rigid, and security-friendly composite material that will not set off the screening station alarm.  Hidden in the back of the belt is a zipper compartment to hide bills.  It is completely made of nylon and high-impact plastic, including the zipper track and pull so it is completely TSA friendly. With no metal in the belt, you won’t have to worry about having your belt buckle set off TSA airport metal detectors. Learn more about TSA Screening Money belts.

Travel friendly TSA OK money

Best tsa approved money belt

Waterproof Fanny Packs, Neck Pouches, and Body Pouches

When going to the beach, parasailing, or simply swimming in a hotel pool, where do you store your valuables? Now you can play, lounge, or snorkel and not worry about who’s watching your valuables!  Take them swimming with you for peace of mind.  See the latest designs of water-proof gear that protects your valuables, including your phone and take them with you into the water.

HEETA Waterproof Fanny Pack, Waterproof Pouch Dry Bag 2/3/4 Pack for Phone, Adjustable Waist Strap and Screen Touch Sensitive for Swimming Kayaking Boating.
Check price for drybag waist pack

Advice and tips for keeping valuables secure in a money belt

  • Keep your money belt completely out of sight. The most secure way to wear it is over your underwear but beneath your pants.
  • Conceal the belt even more with a longer untucked shirt, or better yet, wear your shirt tucked in.
  • If you’re wearing a neck pouch style money belt, wear it bandolier style with it tucked under one arm and over the shoulder of the opposite arm.
  • Minimize what you carry for the day, leaving the balance of valuables in your hotel room safe. Carry the cash, credit card, and ID you need just for that day.

Before you leave on your trip, spend some time understanding how pickpockets operate so you can “see them coming” before they get your wallet, camera, or phone.  Get a quick tutorial by watching videos of “pickpockets in action.” Before You Go – Watch Real Pickpocket Videos and Read Up on Pickpocket Scams

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