Watch out for pickpockets! Tips for travelers

Sightseeing in some cities can be a very expensive experience. More, when you allow pickpockets to steal some or all of your valuables. The following rules are not a must, but a save way to make sure that your trip will be a good experience.

Credit and cards are a must while traveling, so nearly every traveler has them for making reservations, buying and paying. One of the major rules is, always have some traveler checks with you!
If you have your credit and bank cards stolen, it will take some days to receive the new cards, depending which country you are in and how quick your bank or card company is. The good thing about traveler checks is, they can be replaced in an hour! That way, you do not need to make phone calls, getting your family to wire you money, and you do not have to pay the expensive fee (or your family) for the transaction. If you get them stolen, you call the company (like Visa or American Express) and they will direct you to the nearest bank or post office or currency exchange office they are working with.
If you need to get a money transfer, Western Union is available in nearly every European city. Mainly at post offices. Western Union has a great website with an office locating site. But the fees for a transaction are high.
By the way, if you have a credit card with no PIN number, but you need to withdraw cash, go to a bank a ask for a “Over the counter cash withdraw!” Fee is about 3-5% of the amount you are taking, but you will have cash. Don´t forget your passport and, of course, your credit card.

If the unfortunate moment really comes up, and you got your funds and cards stolen, you need to make a report at the next police station. Your card companies need it. It is pain in the flesh you sit on, but..

Going sightseeing in the big touristy cities, just take with you what you really need for that trip or day. Leave your passport back at the hotel or hostel, if they do not have lockers, hand them to the reception. Same with cards and else. Just take as much cash with you that you will need.
Day bags are a target for thieves with sharp razor blades. They cut your bag at the bottom and wait till something falls out. Cameras, music players, wallets, all.
To be continued…