How to Avoid Being Targeted by Pickpockets on Your Holiday
We’ve all heard the stories, right? A dreamy vacation suddenly turns sour when you realize your wallet is gone, your phone is missing, and you’ve become the latest victim of a sneaky pickpocket. While travel signs and tips are meant to help tourists navigate foreign cities, sometimes they can unintentionally make you more of a target. But don’t worry—armed with the right knowledge, you can outsmart these thieves and keep your holiday stress-free. From recognizing the traps to taking advice from a professional pickpocket (yes, they give advice!), here’s what you need to know.
1. The Tourist Trap Signs
You know those friendly tourist signs that point you to the city’s top attractions or warn you to “Watch Out for Pickpockets”? Well, here’s the thing: these signs may be well-meaning, but they can backfire. Pickpockets know exactly where tourists gather—next to those signs! So, when you see a sign warning of pickpockets, don’t nervously check your wallet or bag right in front of it. That’s a dead giveaway. Instead, stay alert, but keep your cool. Pickpockets are looking for easy targets, so don’t give them clues about where you’re keeping your valuables.
2. Distracting Crowds
Crowded tourist hotspots, especially near famous landmarks, are prime hunting grounds for pickpockets. Whether it’s a busy plaza, a packed train, or a bustling market, these are the places where people are easily distracted by their surroundings. It’s easy to let your guard down while soaking up the sights, but always be mindful of your belongings. Keep your bag zipped and close to your body, and avoid leaving anything valuable in an easy-to-access pocket.
3. The Classic Pickpocket Tactics
Pickpockets are masters of distraction, and they use various tricks to catch you off guard. Ever heard of the “bump and grab”? It’s exactly what it sounds like. They’ll accidentally (or “accidentally”) bump into you, and in that brief moment of distraction, their partner lifts your wallet. Another common trick is the “ask for directions” con, where someone approaches you for help, and while you’re focused on being helpful, they or their partner swipe your stuff.
What’s the lesson here? Be cautious when someone you don’t know gets too close or starts a conversation that takes your attention away from your surroundings. Not every person is out to get you, but it doesn’t hurt to be mindful.
4. Top Tips from a Professional Pickpocket
Believe it or not, former pickpockets sometimes offer tips to help people avoid becoming victims. One professional-turned-security consultant gave this advice: “The biggest mistake tourists make is thinking they’re safe just because they’ve hidden their wallet deep in a bag. Pickpockets know where to look. They’ve seen it all.”
His top tip? Don’t just rely on hiding your valuables—make it harder for thieves to access them. Use anti-theft bags with slash-proof straps or locking zippers, and consider money belts or hidden pouches that sit underneath your clothes. The harder you make it for pickpockets, the more likely they are to move on to an easier target.
5. Be Aware of the Common Targets
When you’re in a foreign city, the key is knowing what types of things pickpockets usually go for. Bags worn loosely over one shoulder are easy grabs, as are backpacks in crowded areas. Instead, wear cross-body bags or backpacks with the zippers positioned against your back. And try to avoid putting your phone or wallet in your back pocket—they’re prime targets for a quick grab.
6. Stay One Step Ahead
It’s all about being aware of your surroundings and outsmarting the thieves. Don’t keep all your money or cards in one place. Split them between your wallet, bag, and a hidden pocket, so even if something gets stolen, you won’t lose everything. And always carry photocopies of your important documents, like your passport, in case the originals are taken.
Oh – so how does an elastic band help? Well, this tip is mainly for wallet carriers… if you take a thick rubber band and wrap it around your wallet (tightly) – this will help stop the wallet riding up out of your pocket, but also make it a lot trickier for someone to remove it smoothly from your pocket! It’s got to be wort a try.
INSURANCE
Always make sure that you are insured… check out our insurance provider
By following these tips, you can minimize the chances of being targeted while still enjoying your vacation. After all, holidays are meant to be a time of relaxation and adventure, not stress! Stay vigilant, take precautions, and you’ll be able to focus on making memories—not losing them. Safe travels!
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