Stay Ahead Of Pickpockets & Sneaky Scams While Traveling Abroad
This article includes affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you.
Whether you’re admiring a choice bit of ancient architecture in Greece or waiting in line for a petit déjeuner at the trendiest bistro in Paris, pickpockets are the last thing you need to deal with.
The sense of violation is enormous – as is the bureaucratic shuffle you’ll endure if your passport and other forms of ID were taken. It pays to be careful. Boy, does it pay!
How Come Pickpocketing Is Still A Thing
Pickpocketing remains a common threat for travelers. Popular tourist attractions, metros, and transit hubs, sporting events, music concerts – all create the ideal environment for thieves. According to an overview of travel-insurance data, Italy tops the list for pickpocketing in Europe. France and Spain take second and third place, respectively.
In his travel-tips guide, travel expert Rick Steves writes: “Crowded transit lines that cover tourist sights are happy hunting grounds for pickpockets…stay in physical contact with your bags.”
What Thieves Do & Where They Strike
Pickpockets often coordinate their efforts: Hooligan # 1 creates a commotion, Hooligan # 2 lifts the wallet or phone. Techniques include “bump and lift”, “sandwiching” a victim in a crowd, or taking advantage of tourist distraction at popular spots like:
● At the Trevi Fountain in Rome where tourists are tossing coins for wishes and good fortune, thieves exploit tourist distractions to grab goodies.
● In jam-packed metro trains or queues where you’re holding a bag by your side and your attention is elsewhere.
Smart Gear & Self-Protective Habits
Reduce your risk by observing these simple practices:
● Use secure bags and front-worn positions: Cross-body bags with zippers, worn in front, are harder to sneak at.
● Hidden wallets or money belts: A money belt tucked beneath your shirt keeps essentials out of sight.
● Minimal visible valuables: Avoid flashy phones, expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash in tourist zones.
● Stay aware in crowds and transit: Especially during rush hour or around landmark sites. Don’t get lost in your phone.
● Pre-plan and separate backups: Keep copies of your passport/ID, store extra cash in your room safe, and don’t carry everything in one place.
Pay Particular Attention While In Destinations With Elevated Risks
Some locations demand extra caution because the risk is higher there:
● Italy has the dubious honor of being Europe’s highest-risk country for pickpocketing.
● Hugely popular cities like Barcelona — esp. the La Rambla area — are repeatedly flagged.
● In transit hubs — train stations, metro stops — being unfamiliar with the layout and easily distracted makes you more vulnerable.
Travel Tips That Make a Difference
● Keep your bag strap across your body and hand on the zipper or flap when stationary.
● Avoid putting your phone in your back pocket — pickpockets often work from behind.
● When you notice someone bumping you or trying to distract you, create space or move away; don’t assume you’re safe because you’re paying attention.
● Use the hotel safe for items you don’t need day-to-day — passport copy, spare cards.
● Before you go, digitally photograph key documents and cards — so you can report them quickly if needed.
The Bottom Line
Pickpockets don’t have to ruin your trip. You can still enjoy world-class destinations without anxiety. Adopt a few smart habits, make thoughtful gear choices, and you’ll spend your vacation creating memories to cherish…instead of memories you wish you could forget.
Stay Safe With These Sleek Anti-Theft Bags
Sherpani Soleil Anti‑Theft Convertible Backpack/Tote: Sherpani offers anti‑theft & RFID travel bags from $140.00.
Mark Ryden SAVIOR Anti‐Theft Backpack: Mark Ryder lists the locker‑style anti‑theft backpack at $109.99
Baggallini Securtex Anti‑Theft Crossbody Bag: Baggallini lists anti‑theft crossbody bags from $70 to $150 on its site.
