Travel to Europe

Travel Safety and Security in Europe

No joking matter

If you are traveling to Europe, keep in mind that security in airports and train stations is no joking matter. Do not attempt to bring anything illegal into or out of Europe. Show respect for security and answer any questions that you are asked with an honest serious answer. When you are in line with immigration, it is not the time to start telling jokes. You are traveling to have a good time, but this is not the time to draw attention to yourself.

Theft happens in Europe just as it does in the States. Using common sense at all times is the best way to avoid becoming a victim. Our tips below will help you out. Some of them may seem silly, but we guarantee that you will see other people making these mistakes during your trip.

Use a money belt or under-shirt pouch for your passport and extra money. Before you leave your hotel room put enough money in your pocket to get you through the day.

Don’t keep your wallet in your back pocket, especially in crowded conditions; use the front pocket or a closed pocket on a leg. Consider sewing Velcro into your front pocket to keep cash safe.

If you can avoid it, don’t carry a purse. If you want to use a day bag, make sure it has a strap that can’t be easily cut. When sitting down, make sure the strap is attached to your chair securely.

Never dig into your money pouch, or flash large amounts of money in public.

Never wear expensive or flashy jewelry.

Use ATMs during daylight hours and with someone you know present. Ask that person to stand back and watch for unusual activity.

Most pick pockets take place by someone bumping or rubbing against you, use caution when you are in a crowd or walking against the flow of pedestrian traffic.

Avoid large crowds such as demonstrations or parades.

Many thieves work in teams, if a stranger starts to talk to you, be very aware of your surroundings and your personal things.

Train stations, buses and subways are notorious for theft so take extra precautions there.

Cameras and bags are stolen when left unattended,. When you rest, hold your valuables or make sure they are secure. Thieves can otherwise steal them right out from under you.

Rental cars make an easy target for burglary. Hide all valuables, keep the car locked and consider keeping a local newspaper on the dash so that a thief might think it is a local person’s car.

When you make a purchase, know what the bill is and how much you gave. You should know about how much to expect back.

Do not just hold out money to let a merchant take it from your hands.

In light of recent terrorism around the world, we recommend that you wear clothes to blend with the local culture. Having pride is great, wearing an American flag t-shirt in a foreign country is just not smart in today's environment. See our tips on what to wear.

Even if you have never had a problem before, you should still use caution at all times. Most people are victims of circumstance. Remember that larger cities are more dangerous than smaller ones and countries in southern Europe tend to a have a higher theft rate than those in the North.

Travels with Friends: Learn more about other European destinations and tips for traveling within Europe. www.TravelsWithFriends.com

Private Guides: See Europe and learn about its history with your own private guide. www.PrivateGuidesInEurope.com