Well Weathered

Even the most seasoned travelers are ‘hit’ every now and then by the train station pickpocket. However conscious you are about would-be thieves in your midst, it’s difficult and perhaps unhealthy to walk around being suspicious of everyone. The most we can do is be observant, evaluate levels of danger, create alternatives, and take a few precautionary steps so that the opportunity for pilfering is minimized. Prevention is better than cure. Express yourself, but be wary of who is watching and listening. Loudness and laughter are indicative of an individual whose defenses are down and is generally not paying attention

Ostentatious and/or excess clothing, jewelry and baggage are a thief magnet. Not just the grab-and-run type crook but the career criminal who makes quite a good living by preying on unsuspecting tourists on a weekly basis. Even your blank, confused _expression coupled with uneasiness in posture can tip off a nearby pickpocket as to where his/her next score will be. Use backpacks, beltpacks and suitcases with meeting double zippers that can be padlocked together, or at least clamped together with screwable carabineers. The latter is not necessarily ‘locked’ but may look difficult enough to deter someone from attempting. While sleeping in hostels, air out your boots but place one under each bedpost near the head of the bed. A metal bag net over your suitcase or duffle will secure things enough. A small chain around, or through, the frame of your pack and around an immovable object will slow someone down; perhaps long enough for you to wake up. When the former were unavailable, I’ve even slept with one arm through the straps of my pack, using it as a pillow. Never put the “please clean room” card on your hotel room door when you’re out as this is surely equivalent to “I’m not here, please come in and take what you want.” Separate money, documents and other valuables and never leave the ‘bare essentials’ behind. In transit, take your bag(s) with you to the bathroom even when assured by neighbors that they’ll keep an eye on things. You’re not being rude, just prudent.