Should I carry a purse or backpack while traveling in Italy?

Question

Which one is the least likely to get stollen? I think backpacks may be more comfortable but, I heard they can more easily get stollen? Also, can anyone recomend a good one to buy? I will mostly be going to museums & shops.

Answer 1

I lived in Italy for two years and would definitely recommend carrying a purse.  Backpacks immediately mark you as being a tourist, which makes you a good target for theft.  Thieves can slice the bottom of your backpack with a knife and everything inside will fall out into their arms... before you even realize what's happened (that is, of course, on top of them simply unzipping the bag and helping themselves).  I carried a regular purse and never slung it across my body (NOT flattering!), and was never robbed.  I use my bag as an armrest and always keep one hand on it so I can feel if anyone is trying to do anything funny.

Purses are classier and, in my opinion, safer than backpacks.  Even worn normally they're a better option.

Answer 2

Backpacks are easier to carry, especially if you are going to be walking all over the place.

Answer 3

Hello,

There is a lot of petty theft in Italy.  A backpack is a very easy target.  A purse can be an easy target if you are not careful.  I always tell people to get a money belt to keep most of their money in.  I use a money belt and a purse.  I found a really great purse at Magellans.com.  It is called the slingsafe.  There are two sizes, a large and a  small.  I use the small.  It will fit a small camera, money, guidebook and a few other things.  I found that I had plenty of room with it.  The thing I like the most about the slingsafe is that there is a steel cord in the strap so no one can cut the bag off of you and there is a steel mesh throughout the body of the bag so no one can cut thru the bag to get to your things.  All in all a very safe bag to have.  With the stories of the gypsies cutting into backpacks and fannypacks, I found this bag gave me a sense of security and I didn't worry about being in crowds.  I wore it across my body and with the zippers and clasps I felt very secure.  It only costs about $35.  The larger one is about $45.

Donna

Answer 4

I think that whenever you travel a purse is a better option (unless you are going hiking or something).

Purse is just easeir to hold close (and in front of you) in crowded spaces. YOu can never tell if somebody is taking stuff out of your backpack in a crowded spot

Answer 5

A small back pack.... and when you get on public transportation make sure you turn it around in front of you. This for 2 reasons: 1 - so not to bother the other people on the bus / train / vaporetto or tram & 2. So the jerk thives won't get into your bag.

Remember - you cannot carry large back packs or even bags in to museums in Italy. SOoooo, make sure you have a smaller bag to carry your documents, money and camera when you visit the museums.

Answer 6

i always use a purse i can sling over my neck so it hangs diagonally across my body when i travel. this makes it harder for someone to snatch and the purse has an option of being in front of your or behind you depending on the crowd (i always keep it in front though with one hand always over it). doesn't hurt to be safe always. i've actually lost things in my backpack while standing in the subway which is why i've stopped using them. it really is easy for someone to open zippers behind you when you dont see them.

Answer 7

What a lot of people do is to yes, use a backpack but instead of carrying it on their backs they carry it on their tummies.(very much like a baby carrier).............that way you will still have your hands free but you will be able to keep control of all your personal possessions as they will be right under your eyes..................In Italy 'Napapiri' backpacks (or frontpacks!) are very fashionable and cost around the €40, although you can find much cheaper ones if you are not worried about what brand it is.............make sure to buy some water in a shop and take it with you as in touristic places it costs a lot more and if you are buying any souvernirs at market stalls don't be embarassed about asking for a little 'sconto' (a deduction in the price) it's quite the normal thing and they do tend to try it on with tourists and foreigners, so make sure that you are paying the right price and that you get back the right change .................apart from all this I'm sure you'll have a great time in Italy, it is so full of artistic history..............there is loads to see and do and the food is great.................ENJOY YOURSELF

Answer 8

I think people who have given you advice to carry a purse that you can sling over your shoulder and carry diagonally were right on. Backpacks are targets for thieves. I live in Italy and have had stuff stolen out of backpacks (I used to wear them because I too thought they were more comfortable) so I gave up on them.

One thing to note that hasn't been mentioned: A backpack has you stick out as a tourist and this puts you more at risk for being a target for theft. Theives assume that tourists have things in their bags worth stealing -- cash, credit cards, cameras, etc -- and assume you are more distracted and an easier target. Try to blend in where you travel -- dress like the locals (Italians never wear shorts, sneakers (with the exception of expensive luxury brands) and rarely jeans, for example), and walk confidently. But most of all keep on hand on your purse and your purse in front of you at all times.

Answer 9

Backpacks are the way to go. With a purse your storage space is limited. With a backpack you can carry water and some snacks and have all kinds of space for trinkets you pick up and shops and vendors. Keep your Passport and money in your front pocket. As for the kind of backpack, go with a day pack by anyone.

Answer 10

I think a comfortable handbag with compartments inside and hang it diagonally across your body .About been stolen that can be in London,New york of Rome..just take precautions and have a nice holidays.