When traveling in the U.S., being pickpocketed is probably the furthest thing from your mind. Although pickpocket thefts do occur, they are pretty rare. If you are traveling overseas, however, protecting yourself against pickpocket thieves should be of the utmost concern. Unlike the U.S., pickpocket crimes are commonplace in many foreign cities. Use these three tips to minimize your chances of becoming a victim.
Do Not Dress Like a Tourist
Tourists are a pickpocket’s favorite victims. Tourists are easy to spot and often not paying attention to what is going on around them. While you do not have to dress exactly as the locals do, you should avoid wearing these easy to spot tourist markers:
- fanny packs
- clothes with lots of visible brand names
- sneakers or any type of exercise shoes
- lots of jewelry
- carrying maps
- carrying a camera
You best option is to avoid pickpockets is to blend into the crowd. Wear non-descript clothing.
Secure Your Valuables
Backpacks, pockets, purses, and bags are easy targets for pickpockets. You should never keep your valuables in these items. Consider buying a money belt (worn under your clothing) to keep your cash and credit cards safe.
If you must use a backpack, secure the zippers with locks and keep the key on your body. Pickpockets are skilled thieves, but keeping your money belt under your clothes makes robbing you much more difficult.
You should also refrain from bringing any unnecessary valuables with you while you are away from your hotel room. Bring only enough cash for the day. Flashing large amounts of cash makes you a target. If you do not need your identification documents leave them in your room.
Be Vigilant
When you are visiting a place for the first time, it is easy to get lost in the beauty and culture around you. Thieves are counting on this. They are also more than willing to take advantage of your kindness.
Therefore, you must be vigilant at all times. Keep an eye out for these common scams:
- children begging
- fake fights
- people asking for help, like directions
- anyone who offers to help you
- fake falls and accidents
- fake street vendors
- anyone who tries to bump into you
Pickpockets work in teams and can be adults, children, or any combination the two. Distraction is their greatest weapon. Therefore, while you may feel sorry for a child begging in the streets, it is quite likely that he, or she, is merely a distraction and the child’s partner is attempting to rob you.
While it is not possible to prevent all theft, making yourself as small a target as possible and remaining vigilant are your best options for thwarting pickpockets when you travel.