Are Tourists Ruining Europe? How Locals Are Pushing Back
As the number of people traveling for leisure returns to pre-pandemic levels, places that always attracted a lot of visitors are experiencing 'over-tourism,' a tipping point beyond which daily life becomes unbearable for local people. In 2023, one of Europe's worst over-tourism hotspots — the Greek island of Zakynthos — drew 150 times more people than it has permanent residents. European countries hosted an estimated 756 million tourists in 2024, 46 million more than in the preceding year.
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Phone Theft Is More Common Than You Think While Traveling—but This Foolproof Hack Will Keep Your Device Safe
I've had some unforgettable travel moments, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, paragliding over the Swiss Alps, and riding ATVs through Mallorca, but nothing stuck with me like getting my phone stolen in Barcelona. Twice. The first time, it vanished from my bag. The second time I was mid-scroll when a passing cyclist swooped in and snatched it out of my hand. Three years later, I'm still on a mission to make sure it never happens again. 46 percent of travelers have had valuables lost or stolen abroad, and 35 percent have had a tech device stolen, according to a study from All About Cookies (an informational website that provides tips about digital security). Now, whenever someone tells me they're going abroad, I give them this important piece of advice: Keep your phone physically connected to you. It might sound over-the-top, but according to a Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey, one in five international travelers have lost their phone or had it stolen while abroad. So whether it's with a crossbody bag or a lanyard, your phone needs to stay secure. If I'd had either one in Barcelona, I could've saved myself thousands in replacement phones—and a lot of dramatic calls to Verizon. To help you avoid becoming a statistic, I found the best ant-theft crossbody bags and phone lanyards on Amazon—all starting at just $9. The warm brown shade and gold hardware on this bag will instantly elevate your travel outfit, and the crossbody design keeps your phone and essentials right in front of you, so you never have to sacrifice security for style. There's also a built-in ring that clips through the zipper pulls for an added anti-theft measure, and despite its compact frame, it fits far more than just your phone—think passport, power bank, AirPods, and more. Designed for days on the go, this waterproof, breathable sling bag ensures your belongings stay safe, dry, and in sight, whether you're exploring, hiking, or cycling through a new city. Its front-facing design deters pickpockets, while the water-resistant fabric protects your phone from surprise downpours or sweaty adventure days—because no one wants their phone ruined halfway through a trip. When you want to travel light but keep your phone secure and easy to grab, this compact crossbody delivers—with the bonus of RFID-blocking protection to guard your cards against digital theft. Available in 30 different designs, it's as stylish as it is functional. One traveler raved, 'No more digging into the bottom of my purse or backpack when I want to take a photo,' while others call it their go-to bag for sightseeing. This RFID-protected crossbody blends anti-theft features with fashion—the puffer-inspired design feels on-trend while keeping your belongings in front of you at all times. Two front zip pockets and a hidden back pocket keep valuables organized and out of reach from pickpockets. Plus, the adjustable strap lets you switch between wearing it as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or handbag, making it a smart, versatile choice for any trip. For hands-free peace of mind, this under-$10 sturdy phone lanyard keeps your device around your neck (or wrist) so you can snap photos without worrying about theft or accidental drops. Travelers have spotted these everywhere in Europe, with shoppers raving about the lanyard's convenience for boat excursions. One reviewer shared that they no longer fear dropping their phone in the ocean while taking pictures. This stylish lanyard strap lets you carry your phone around your neck, across your body, or from your wrist, all while keeping it secure and pickpocket-proof. The sleek design pairs well with travel outfits and can also hold an ID badge, keys, or even an ear buds case, making it a must for your packing list. Equal parts style and function, this rope strap turns your phone into an elevated accessory while keeping it safe from grab-and-go theft. The nylon strap is adjustable for comfort, and it's chic enough to blend into dinner outfits without looking like a tourist gadget. With a hypoallergenic faux leather strap, this universal lanyard is made for travelers who want both comfort and security. Its anti-drop and anti-snatch design keeps your phone close in crowded areas like markets or train stations—without compromising on style. It comes in several colors, including a few black options for anyone who wants to be super inconspicuous. This upscale leather crossbody will add a vibrant pop of color to your travel wardrobe while offering stealthy anti-theft features. Despite its compact size, it has three flexible main pockets, 12 card slots, and a zip compartment. The all-in-one design means you can keep your valuables secure without carrying a larger bag, and travelers praise it for both style and the peace of mind it offers. Perfect for beach days or boat trips, this waterproof lanyard lets you keep your phone with you while swimming or snorkeling—no need to leave it unattended. You can still text, scroll, and take underwater photos while you splash around. One reviewer noted that they got 'amazing videos of sea life' during snorkeling, plus peace of mind on fishing trips. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
