What personal safety items to carry through EU, when backpacking??

Question

When i went traveling through Spain there were a few situations. One guy was walking at me and my friend during our argument and he look like he was going to grab and run at us, by the way he was looking at us. He was watching me put my hand on my small torch pouch, that looked like pepper stray, his walking pace slowed down, he then tried to avoid eye contact and he then walked off in a different direction. My friend was still complaining, and completely oblivious, to what could have happened.  Maybe i was over assessing the situation and he wasn't coming at us, but it was frightening. Next time I'm traveling alone and I'm worried about my safety.

So i was going to purchase asp baton. Could you suggest what would be acceptable in the EU, or tips, or items for personal safety??

Answer

Most European countries are pretty safe, but - like most places - there are areas (usually in big, poorer cities) that you'd want to avoid. The most important thing for your personal safety is to understand where you are and where to avoid. Ask the locals, especially people who travel throughout the city, like taxi drivers.

In terms of personal safety, I wouldn't in any way recommend carrying weapons. In a lot of European countries it is an offence to carry a weapon. You could be jailed for carrying a gun or a knife and even a baton is liable to cause the police to arrest you. If you stick to places that are safe, you shouldn't need to defend yourself.

Also, if possible, try not to stand out from the crowd. If you do come into contact with muggers, pickpockets, or anyone who'd wish you harm, being very obviously from somewhere else implies you don't know local customs (and dangers) and makes you a potential target. The biggest thing that gives people away is their clothing and luggage.

What personal safety items to carry through EU, when backpacking??

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