Riding the train in Europe used to be an exciting adventure, until the recent attack on a high-speed train en route from Amsterdam to Paris.
Photos: Facebook/Paris Gare du NordWhen we can’t control these isolated incidents, there are various ways we can keep our belongings safe to prevent unnecessary thefts or pickpocketing.
It would be such a shame to live in fear while riding the train, since it’s such an affordable and convenient way to transport in Europe. But it’s important to stay street smart. It just so happens that I’ve been traveling all over France via TGV this summer, so here are some personal rules that I always follow to be safe than sorry.
1. Put your carryon on the opposite side of your seat.
It only makes more sense to put your luggage directly above your seat. If that space is taken, instead of putting your carryon a few seats behind you, try to place it on the opposite aisle and in front of you. This way, it’s easier to keep your eyes on your belongings rather than constantly turning your head around to check what’s behind you. By placing your bags in the cabinets in front of you or on the opposite aisle, you can easily spot someone standing up or walking by your belongings.
3. If your handbags are too heavy for your laps, then use the space below.
Laptop bags and larger handbags can be too heavy for your legs, or they might take up too much space that you can’t sit freely. Solution: keep them underneath your seat. Kick your feet against your belongs every 20-30 minutes to ensure that they’re still there.
2. Never leave your seat without your handbag.
Obviously, it’s less convenient going to the bathroom or the food and beverage area with your carryon. But you can absolutely take your handbag or purse along with you, and I highly recommend doing so. Never part with your wallet, passport, ID…basically, the essentials. Even if it’s just a short two-minute break to the bathroom, NEVER leave your seat without your bag.
3. Keep your bags zipped at all times.
Some people have the tendency to keep their handbags unzipped for convenience sake. When you’re taking out your book, your cell phone, your earphones multiple times, it might seem easier to keep your bags unzipped. In the train, however, ALWAYS keep your handbags zipped up at all times. Pickpocketing is a reality, and you don’t want to be an easy target.
Photos: Facebook/Paris Gare du Nord4. Wrap your arms around the straps of your handbag.
Since I frequently solo travel by train, I’ve become quite paranoid about personal belongings. After hearing too many unfortunate stories from other travelers, I’ve grown to be extra careful by wrapping one arm around the strap of my bag while sitting in my seat. This way, if someone attempts to snag my bag, I am immediately alerted.
5. If you have the whole row, stay on the aisle seat.
So you can keep your belongings on the window seat. People are less likely to cross over you to grab your things without catching your attention first.
6. Keep to yourself.
Sounds anti-social, but European trains are surprisingly quiet. Train etiquette in Europe centers around keeping to yourself and avoid speaking loudly.
7. Watch out for folks who are walking by frequently or hastily.
In other words, be street smart. Although there are times we encounter strangers who offer us kindness while we’re on the road, there are also times we need to beware. If you’re spotting certain people getting up or frequently walking by your seat, gently put your hands on your bags as an indication that you know what’s going on without being too obvious. If you see someone storming through the aisle far too quickly, and your gut is telling you to be alert, you most likely should be on guard.
