14 Tips on How to Not Get Pickpocketed on Your Next Trip 

Having your phone or wallet stolen can ruin your entire vacation. 

While not as common in the United States, pickpocketing is a real issue in Europe, where Italy, Spain, and France, top the list, of countries with the most cases of petty theft. 

Whether you travel to Europe or any other part of the world, you should take necessary precautions to outsmart criminals who hang out on the street waiting for unsuspecting tourists who are too busy exploring their bucket list destination and have their guard down. 

Although some cities like Rome, Barcelona, or Paris are known as pickpocketing hotspots, you should take precautions no matter where you go. Busy landmarks like Trevi Fountain in Rome, Eiffel Tower in Paris, and Acropolis in Athens have become a sweet spot for pickpockets who often walk in crowds looking for their next victim. 

But the truth is, you can get pickpocketed no matter where you go. Places off the beaten path can also have their fair share of pickpockets who often masquerade as visitors. That’s why you should take the necessary precautions and do research before your next trip. 

This guide will help you outsmart pickpockets and thieves who often take advantage of tourists in popular areas.

Always be aware of your surroundings

Situational awareness is the No.1 safety rule. No matter where you are, you should always know what’s happening and what people are around you.

Staying alert helps you avoid dangerous situations such as accidents, theft, and even more serious crimes like assault. Do your best to stay focused and avoid distractions from street performers and busy areas around major landmarks. 

Leave your designer brands at home

The best way to avoid becoming a victim of pickpockets is to leave your designer clothes at home. The more you look like a tourist, the more likely you will become a target of street criminals.

The worst thing you can do is wear flashy designer brands that scream, “I have money!”  Try to come across as someone who doesn’t have much to steal, not the other way around. 

Wear plain clothes to blend in

Swap your fancy outfit for plain attire to blend in with the crowd. It might not be the best tactic if you want to take photos on your trip and look the part, but it’s a great strategy to walk around and avoid the attention from the wrong people. Avoid speaking or laughing loudly, or doing anything that could otherwise draw unwanted attention. 

Don’t walk around with your head in your phone

One of the worst things you can do while wandering around a new city is to keep your head on your phone. Criminals often prey on unsuspecting tourists, who walk around without paying attention to what’s going on around them.

By keeping your head in your phone, you’re making it much easier for thieves to get a hold of whatever is in your pocket or purse. 

Stay away from popular spots when they’re busy

While you should check out iconic spots like the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the famous Spanish Steps in Rome, plan your visit for early morning or evening to avoid peak hours.

Visiting tourist hotspots during peak times increases your chances of encountering criminals. Whenever you plan to visit a popular destination, research its opening times and rules of conduct to make the best of your visit. 

Be careful on public transport

Public transportation hubs like bus and train stations are the bread and butter of pickpockets, which usually target distracted tourists trying to figure out how to get around. 

When you use public transportation in a new area, pay close attention to who’s next to you and keep your belongings in your hands.  Criminals often use crowded buses and train cars to steal things as they squeeze between people. Avoid walking around with open bags or pockets, and keep a distance from other people.

Get an anti-theft bag

Investing in a money belt or crossbody bag is one of the best ideas before your big trip, regardless of where you go. A crossbody bag will keep all your belongings in front. They also have hidden pockets inside or in harder-to-access areas, perfect for valuables like your phone and cash.

Crossbody bags often come with zippers that can be locked or clipped, making it more difficult for pickpockets to open quickly and discreetly.

Don’t go out alone at night

You are more likely to become a victim when you are alone, especially if you are out after nightfall. Go out in groups of 3-4 people when possible, and if you travel alone, wrap up your activities by the time it gets dark. 

Avoid getting drunk

When you go out, avoid alcohol overconsumption. When you have one drink too many, it’s a lot easier for criminals to take advantage of you and steal your things, and you might not even remember what happened by the time it’s too late. 

Be wary of overly friendly people

While you should meet new people, always be cautious around someone who is overly friendly. People who want to invite you places or give you things for free should raise a red flag, especially if you just met them. Of course, not everyone has ill intentions, so you should always assess things in context. 

Use inner pockets

If you plan to spend your day out and about, use inner pockets to store your valuables. For example, you can wear shorts or a jacket with inner pockets for your phone or wallet. This way, pickpockets won’t notice anything of value if they pass you on a street. 

Wear your handbag or shoulder bag in front of you

If you are in an area known for its scams and pickpockets, put your backpack in front of you. It’s easy for someone to steal things from your outer pocket when they stand in the back. 

Don’t carry all your money and valuables with you

Items of value, such as electronics, expensive jewelry, and important documents, should be left at your hotel. Avoid carrying large sums of money and other valuables. 

Trust your gut

Remember, if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. Whether it’s an overly sweet person trying to be friendly for no reason, or someone asking you too many personal questions, always listen to your intuition. Criminals often use sophisticated psychological tricks to gain your trust and distract you, and you should know better than that.