Pickpocketing is a frequent concern for travelers, particularly in crowded tourist areas. A recent survey from Quotezone ranked Italy first in Europe for pickpocketing incidents, followed by France and Spain. Thankfully, most visits to these countries are trouble-free, but you should still be on your guard if you plan to visit high-profile attractions such as the Trevi Fountain in Rome, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or Las Ramblas in Barcelona. Take a look at seven common habits that attract pickpockets and how to make yourself less of a target.

Not Choosing the Right Gear

Some bags are easier targets for pickpockets than others. Luckily, there are a wide range of anti-theft bags on the market, such as those from PacSafe, that are designed with security in mind. These products usually feature steel mesh embedded in the fabric to deter slash thieves, specially designed zippers, lockable pockets, and/or cross-body designs. While they may come with a premium price tag, the investment could be worth it for the peace of mind that it gives you — after all, no one wants to spend hours of their precious vacation in a police station getting the necessary report to file an insurance claim.

Looking Lost in Busy Areas

If you’re lost, you might be tempted to study your phone or a map. But to avoid attracting pickpockets, you should really stay focused on what’s going on around you. When you’re visiting somewhere for the first time, particularly if it’s a crowded spot, think carefully about where you pause if you need to get your bearings. For instance, try to avoid stopping on the sidewalk and instead duck into a doorway (and keep a hand over your bag while you do so). Better still, make your plans from the comfort of a hotel room or over coffee in a café. That way, once you set off, you can do so with confidence.

Not Storing Your Luggage

If you’ve just arrived at your destination but it’s too early to check in to your accommodation, don’t make the mistake of keeping your luggage with you as you explore. Not only does cumbersome baggage make you vulnerable to thieves, but it’s also harder to keep a close eye on multiple possessions. Instead, choose a hotel with a staffed reception desk and ask to leave your belongings in their secure room. If that’s not an option, seek out a paid locker or luggage storage facility, which you’ll often find in central locations such as railway stations. 

Wearing Expensive Clothes or Jewelry

Showing off that you can afford designer labels or expensive items of jewelry turns you into a magnet for pickpockets. By doing so, you’re also suggesting that there may be other items of value inside your pockets or bags. Instead, while traveling, avoid making yourself conspicuous by aiming to blend in rather than stand out. That means leaving your most valuable jewelry at home or in the hotel safe. At the very least, cover labels or jewelry in busy areas with your sleeve or a jacket so they’re not immediately obvious to onlookers.

Riding Crowded Public Transportation

Crowded city buses, trams, and trains attract thieves. Watch out for anyone acting suspiciously — say, someone carrying a large but empty tote bag in which to hide their haul, or someone with props (such as jackets or newspapers) that could conceal ill-gotten gains. While authentic experiences are often a highlight of visiting a new place, you might feel more comfortable taking a taxi (see our tips here) or a sightseeing bus instead. If you do ride the local metro, avoid doing so at peak periods and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Standing on the Edge of the Sidewalk

In busy cities such as London, snatch-and-grab thefts are becoming more common. Would-be thieves use mopeds, scooters, or e-bikes to make a speedy getaway. If you stand on the roadside, you run the risk of losing a purse or phone as they swipe it and move on. To avoid being a victim, step away from the curb. It’s also best to keep your phone tucked out of sight in a secure place or use a case with a strap. Additionally, spread money and cards across multiple bags so that if one is taken, you haven’t lost everything — or better yet, consider wearing a money belt that can be concealed beneath your clothing.

Hanging Your Bag on the Back of the Chair

Many travelers don’t think twice before placing their purse or day pack under a café table or beside their feet. But if you do so, it’s far easier for a pickpocket to slide your belongings away from you. By the time you realize that your bag is gone, the thieves will be, too. Instead, follow travel expert Rick Steves’ advice and loop one of the straps around your ankle or the table leg. Alternatively, keep your bag on your lap and lay a hand over any zipper to prevent it from being opened.