How can I protect myself from pickpockets in Europe?

Outsmarting Pickpockets and Thieves
  1. Be prepared. ...
  2. Wear a money belt. ...
  3. Leave valuables in your hotel room. ...
  4. Secure your bag, gadgets, and other valuables when you're out and about. ...
  5. Stay vigilant in crowds and steer clear of commotions. ...
  6. Establish a don't lose it discipline. ...
  7. Leave a clue for honest finders.




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16 Tips to Outsmart Pickpockets and Thieves in Europe
  1. Know where the biggest threats lie. ...
  2. Research the most common pickpocketing scams. ...
  3. Don't have anything on you that's worth stealing. ...
  4. Put your passport and credit cards in an RFID wallet. ...
  5. Get an anti-theft bag. ...
  6. Be extra careful around popular tourist attractions.


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Using anti-theft bags and wallets in Europe is important because it provides an added layer of protection against pickpockets.

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Your clothes are a dead giveaway. The stereotype is true: American tourists stick out like a sore thumb when they travel, making them prime targets for pickpockets. Instead of throwing on a T-shirt to rep your alma mater, try to dress like the locals.

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The safest and most convenient style of bag is a crossbody bag that you wear from one shoulder to the opposite hip. A thin flexible wire embedded in the strap makes it slash-resistant to thieves who cut bag straps and then run off with the bag.

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While crossbodies are purses that are hard to pickpocket, make sure to keep them in front of you at all times when you're out and about. That way, you'll be able to see your valuables, no matter where you are!

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You probably won't have a problem, but if you do, you would lose the bag and could end up with a hefty fine. To me, it wouldn't be worth the hassle or the worry. If it has the Louis Vuitton label on it and it is fake, don't take it.

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In general, spaces are a lot smaller, the infrastructure isn't very suitcase friendly and if you're backpacking, you'll probably be flying with a lot of low-cost airlines or taking the train or a bus. All this is what makes travel backpacks the ideal packing method for a European vacation.

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Who do pickpockets target? Pickpockets look for distracted and unaware travelers. “That's not to say that anyone can be prey, but if you're engrossed in your phone, you're less attentive to what's going on around you,” said Maria Pasquale, a Rome-based travel journalist and author.

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Security experts say that crossbody handbags are a good bet since you can easily keep an eye on your belongings. With these bags, your items are safely secured to the front of you or your side via bag straps that go all the way around your body.

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Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain How to avoid it: It may sound simple but make sure that all of your valuables are tightly zipped away in a bag or purse when you're in tourist areas. Zips on bags should also face inwards where possible. Las Ramblas is the worst spot in the world for pickpockets.

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