Stay Safe While Traveling: Tips and Tricks to Avoid Pickpockets

Traveling is an enriching experience, but it also comes with risks, particularly the risk of pickpocketing. Being prepared and vigilant can help ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable. Below are some tips and tricks to help you stay safe and avoid falling victim to pickpockets, along with recommendations for anti-theft products I personally use and trust.

Top Pickpocket Hotspots Around the World

1. Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain

   • This bustling pedestrian street is infamous for pickpockets, especially during peak tourist seasons.

2. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

   • As one of the most visited landmarks in the world, it's a prime spot for pickpockets, particularly on the main street leading from the metro to the tower.

3. Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy

   • Tourists throwing coins into the fountain are often distracted, making them easy targets.

4. Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic

   • The ritual of touching the statue of St. John of Nepomuk on the bridge offers pickpockets a perfect distraction.

5. Sacré-Cœur, Paris, France

   • The area around this iconic basilica is known for street scammers and pickpockets.

6. Colosseum, Rome, Italy

   • Long lines at this historic site are ideal for pickpockets looking for distracted tourists.

7. Old Town Square, Prague, Czech Republic

   • This bustling area is another hotspot where tourists need to be cautious.

8. Louvre, Paris, France

   • The sheer volume of visitors makes it a prime location for pickpockets.

9. Notre-Dame, Paris, France

   • Another popular site in Paris where tourists need to be on high alert.

10. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain

    • This architectural marvel attracts many tourists, along with pickpockets​(
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Common Pickpocketing Tricks

• Distraction: Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups. One person will distract you by asking for directions, while another steals your belongings.
• Crowded Areas: Busy tourist spots are prime locations. Pickpockets use the chaos to their advantage.
• Fake Helpers: Some pickpockets pose as Good Samaritans, offering help with bags or directions, only to rob you.
• Bump and Lift: They might bump into you intentionally to distract you while lifting your wallet or phone.
• Scams: Some involve children or elderly people to gain sympathy and distract you while others pick your pockets.

Tips to Avoid Pickpockets

1. Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables in a secure bag with zippers facing inward. I personally use the Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag, which has been a lifesaver on my travels.

2. Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Avoid using your phone or looking at maps for too long without checking your environment.

3. Use Money Belts: Wear a money belt under your clothes to keep cash, cards, and important documents safe.

4. Don’t Flash Valuables: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash.

5. Front Pockets: Keep wallets and phones in front pockets rather than back pockets, making them harder to steal without you noticing.

6. Travel Insurance: Always have travel insurance to cover losses due to theft.

7. Be Skeptical: Be cautious of anyone trying to engage you in conversation or offering unsolicited help. If someone pulls you aside, make sure your belongings are secure.

8. Hotel Safes: Leave unnecessary valuables in your hotel safe when you go out exploring.

Recommended Anti-Theft Products

To further safeguard your belongings, consider investing in these highly-rated anti-theft products:

• Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 Anti-Theft Backpack: This backpack features lockable zippers, cut-proof materials, and RFID blocking pockets to protect against digital theft.

• Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag: A smaller, stylish option for carrying essentials safely with lockable compartments and RFID protection.

• Pacsafe Travelsafe GII Portable Safe: Perfect for securing valuables in your hotel room with a flexible, lockable design.

• Lewis N. Clark RFID Blocking Money Belt: Keep your cash, cards, and passport safe from pickpockets and electronic theft.

• Travelon Anti-Theft Active Tour Bag: Ideal for day trips with multiple compartments, a slash-resistant body, and RFID blocking pockets.

By staying vigilant and taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of being pickpocketed and enjoy your travels with peace of mind. Safe travels!