dennis2146 Loc: Eastern Idaho

Of course your mind is your own but I have never understood buying expensive cameras to use here in the United States but then going on trips of a lifetime and taking cheaper cameras. Just as here in America there are safe areas and areas that common sense tells us to stay out of. I have traveled in several European countries as well as Mexico and have never had a problem carrying Nikon and Leica equipment. Of course I paid attention to my surroundings and had a good grasp on my equipment. There are criminals/thieves all across the globe. They look for easy marks. Don't be that person who is easily stolen from and you won't have a problem.

Have a great trip.

Dennis

SteveLew Loc: Sugar Land, TX

On trips I usually take either my Fuji and two lenses or my Nikon Z. My camera and lens must fit in my medium size shoulder camera bag. After viewing countless videos on theft in various locations in Europe or Asia the over the head shoulder bag is the best safeguard to camera theft.

raypep

Due to my job, Foreign Service, I travelled to 100+ countries and took photos everywhere I went. I never had a problem with theft. I think the reason was I always stayed in the moment when taking photos, knowing exactly where I was and what I wanted to phto and why.
Later I might day dream or think about the day but when taking photos I ws totally aware.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Right! If the camera doesn't fit into my pocket, I don't bring it.

piperplt

I agree, that's why I tend to overpack because I'm more concerned with getting the shots I want than the risk or weight. Coming home from a trip several years ago I inadvertently left my camera bag on a table going through security in an airport in Malaga, Spain. I didn't realize it until I was through the scanners and I just about had a heart attack! Luckily, I could still see it and watch it until they let me go back through to retrieve it. Since then I've always been super aware of my surroundings! I did lose a Minolta film camera years ago at Kings Island in Ohio. We sat down at an outside table for lunch and I hooked the bag over the back of the chair. When we got up to leave, I forgot it was there and started walking away. I don't think I got 10 steps before I remembered it, but when I turned around and went back it was gone. It can happen just that quickly.

Picture Taker Loc: Michigan Thumb

Carry as little as potable (I carry a Tamron 28-300 and 17- 28). I have a small shoulder bag with a steel cable in the strap (B&H $30.00). Took it to Europe, Asia and all over.

wdross Loc: Castle Rock, Colorado

Being aware of your surroundings, and being aware where your equipment is, will prevent most issues. You can always buy PacSafe straps that have a wire in them to prevent cutting straps. That way the thief has to steal the chair, table, or pole with the camera bag. And being in a group of four or more helps to discourage the thieves. Having one of your group, without anything to be stolen, walking behind the backpacks prevents thieves from unzipping exterior areas and taking things. Nothing is 100% theft proof, but common sense and reasonable precautions should make for a fun trip. Also, be aware that children, working with the thief, make great decoys.

photoman43

My approach is slightly different for travel in Europe. I am assuming that the camera will be used outdoors and indoors. And the images taken will be used for non professional purposes--big prints are not needed so sensor size does not have to be full frame. And lenses do not need to be big and heavy.

If only outdoors, in daylight, the choice might be different.

My first rule is that whatever I carry and use in Europe I want to be hidden under a light jacket. This allows me to "sneak" in cameras that might not be allowed in certain places, like museums, churches, etc. It also means that it is hidden from prying eyes (until used.)

This can accommodate a DSLR with a 24-85mm lens. or something smaller, like a camera with a one inch sensor. For indoors, I will have in my jacket pocket a small profile prime lens like a 50mm f2.8. If needed, use it.

Camera strap does not state the brand of the camera.

If you take a point and shoot. flash has to be able to de disabled as flash is usually not allowed.

stevefrankel

My wife and I have been on 45+ international cruises to more than 60 nations and I've accumulated a collection of more than 20,000 photos. I'd echo Rick Steeve's comments: Most other countries are at least as safe as the U.S.; especially the capital cities in Europe and most other areas where tourism is encouraged. Outside of being pickpocketed in Mexico City and Madrid, with the wallets thrown in a nearby trash bin right after the theft with only the credit cards taken, and my wife having a Sony RX100 stolen off a bench in St. Petersburg (for which USAA reimbursed us for full value before we returned to the U.S.), we have never had a bit of trouble. My advice to you is the following:
1. Never carry a camera bag. Take only what you can comfortably carry on a camera sling and/or in the pockets of a photo vest. I carry a Sony RX10-M4 in a Cotten Sling with a Sony RX100-VA in my front pocket. I'm thinking of ditching the RX100 in favor of my Apple 13 Pro Max which I also always have with me. If it only had a small viewfinder accessory, I'd replace the RX100 in a minute!
2. If you're going anywhere potentially dicey (e.g., Buenos Aires or Rio), hire a local private guide with their own car. They will take you to places where you would never find (or be welcome) on your own, and you'll be perfectly safe at all times.
3. Carry your critical camera gear in the overhead where you can see it, or under the seat in front of you, on the plane. Never ship anything you need as baggage unless you can replace it in a few hours before you leave. Try to keep all your camera and the camera bag to less than about 7 pounds. Don't bother with taking tripods, lighting gear, more than 2-3 lenses, or more than 2 camera bodies plus your smartphone.
4. Always buy an extended all-risk warranty from a manufacturer such as Sony, Canon, or Nikon to cover factory repairs; AND a "valuable property floater" on your homeowner's insurance policy to cover theft or loss.

That's it. Follow these four rules at all times and you'll look forward to shooting everywhere you go.

jldodge

I have been to Europe several times and bring whatever gear is appropriate to getting the best pictures. I try to be aware of all that is around me and avoid crowds. I also use Pacsafe straps and bags in case someone wants to slice the strap or my backpack. When I am on trains or buses, I usually stand AND take my backpack off and hold it in front of me. Finally, I look people in the eyes if they are looking at me. Most thieves do not like to be noticed by their prey.

Miamark Loc: Florida

I have taken expensive cameras all over the world. Take the equipment that you need, use a discreet bag to carry it, and be aware of your surroundings. France does have a lot of pickpockets in major cities. I like to use a Domke bag because you can take off the label or I use an Eastpak waist pouch. I never had a problem other than in Mali when a local thought I was taking pictures of monkey paws. I had a Leica M6 at the time and I held onto it during an incident that was stopped by other locals. I have travelled to the places that you mentioned without incident.

photoman43

The advice to use a private car and guide is excellent. I often do that and should have mentioned it. You can find such people on the Internet, trip advisor, etc. Some specialize in photo clients.

billmck Loc: Central KY

I've carried my Nikon on a number of trips to Europe, and I've never had a concern about crime or theft. I'm kind of a simple guy, and I keep my Tamron 18-400 lens on my camera almost all the time. It seems to cover pretty much all the scenes I try to shoot, as long as it's not too dark.

Dalbon

Get all your equipment insured and that will take care of everything expect the pictures should you lose your camera. Of course the photographs are the most praised but still insurance is worthwhile.
David

Miamark Loc: Florida

Don’t put all of your pictures on one card and either download them to a computer or tablet or leave the other cards in your hotel room.