How to backpack across Europe safely

Backpacking across Europe can be dangerous, especially if you've never done it before. Learn how to trek through Europe safely yet still having the adventure of a lifetime.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pepper spray
• International phone
• Map of all your cities
• Emergency phone numbers
• Simple phrase book
• Hostel/Hotel phone numbers
• List of nearby internet cafes
• Money belt
• Lock

1. Get everything ready beforehand.
   
   Book all your hostels and train reservations ahead of time. Look up local tours and sights to see. Though winging it may sound fun, there's nothing like a night without somewhere to stay to ruin your trip.

2. Don't book trains that arrive late at night.
   
   Though most major cities in Europe are filled with people at night, a group of weary travelers with backpacks are easy targets. Manuevering through the subway and walking miles at night after a 5-6 hour train ride is not only tiring, but potentially dangerous.

3. Be paranoid.
   
   Keep your money and passport inside your money belt at all times. Sleep with your money belt beneath your pillow. Girls-make sure your purse has only one zipper. Multiple pockets and zippers on a bag can make it easier for someone on a crowded subway to subtly steal something from your bag. Always hold onto your purse and check it on a minute by minute basis for holes or broken zippers.
   
   Check your surroundings at all time. If it seems like someone is following you, whatever you do, do not go to a ATM or back to your hostel. The best thing to do is try to lose them in a crowded area. If they continue following you, contact the authorities immediately.

4. Avoid strangers
   
   This step depends on your own level of judgement. Some people honestly need help while others are only there to trick you. There are people who will go up to you asking you to help them buy designer purses and will try to take your money. Other people will ask for directions and distract you while an accomplice grabs your belongings. If you are unsure of a person's character, just don't talk to them.

5. Keep your belongings with you at all times.
   
   I cannot stress this enough. Never leave a bag unattended, it WILL get stolen. Don't even leave a stroller or camera on the side. Watch everything.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not let anyone know you have a money belt. Money belts are usually worn under the shirt or pants. Store all your important documents there. Tickets, passport, credit cards. If you need to take something out, do it in a bathroom.
• Be extremely paranoid. Backpackers tend to be easy targets. Don't ever let your guard down and keep watch at all times.
• Keep your pepper spray in your bag at all times. You never know when you will need to use it.
• Don't bring anything extremely valuable or expensive. Anticipate the worst.

[goodlin1975]

on 8/21/2009 Good advice and article. Like one of those Hostel films. Informational.

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