Tag Archives: pickpockets

Finding a pickpocket-proof purse or pickpocket-proof bag for travel is a smart investment for keeping your valuables secure and is your first line of defense against pickpockets and street thieves both at home and while traveling. Wearing a bag crossbody style with the bag hanging in front of you and not resting on your hip or behind makes it very difficult for a thief, no matter how skilled, to pickpocket you. Carrying your anti-theft travel bag in front of you keeps it in view at all times.

Read on to learn how pickpockets operate and which purses thieves like to steal from the most. The Solution? Use an Anti-Theft Travel Purse.  A pickpocket-proof purse easily foils would-be thieves with hidden built-in anti-theft features to help keep your valuables safe.

A Pickpocket-proof Purse is Your Smartest Travel Accessory

Pickpocket-proof purses and bags are available in all sizes, shapes, and designs. Typically the anti-theft features are discreet and incorporated into the bag, so it looks like a regular bag and does not scream tourist. Travel with peace of mind knowing you’re keeping your valuables secure while you enjoy the sights.

Most Important Anti-theft Features of a Good Pickpocket Proof Purse

Locking zippers
Locking zipper pulls lockdown with a clip to the bag to keep pickpockets from pulling them open and lifting your valuables out. This is the single most important feature that makes a travel bag an anti-theft pickpocket-proof purse. Look for the zippers with lock down latches on the main compartment of the bag. Place your wallet, phone, or anything of value inside this compartment and engage the zipper catch to keep the compartment secure.
Detachable strap
Many anti-theft travel bags have a bag strap that unclips from one end of the bag. Use this feature to attach your bag to a chair by unclipping the strap and re-attaching it after threading it through a chair back or another item to prevent grab-and-go thefts.
Slash-proof and crossbody strap
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.
Slash proof sides and bottoms
Bag sides and bottoms are the most vulnerable places on your bag for a bag cutter to slice open and pull out your valuables. Having reinforced sides and bottoms is another ingenious feature of pickpocket-proof purses.
RFID blocking material
Many bags have RFID blocking organizational pockets or a pocket lined with RFID blocking material to protect your ID from e-pickpockets. E pickpockets steal your credit card information electronically. A good pickpocket proof purse will include one or more interior pockets lined in RFID blocking material.

Travelon Anti-theft features in travel bags

Best Anti-Theft Bags and Pickpocket Proof Purses

A pickpocket proof purse helps keep pickpockets out and your valuables secure in your bag. These popular pickpocket-proof purses have all the anti-theft features you need for peace of mind. As a bonus, all these styles are designed to be worn crossbody which is more secure than just over one shoulder. All the featured bags have adjustable straps so if you’re tall, short, or somewhere in between the bag can be adjusted to hang at a comfortable length. Be sure you wear your anti-theft bag so it hangs in front of you and not behind you on your hip.

 

 

The Type of Victims Pickpockets Like to Target

Pickpockets look for people who are either distracted or can be easily distracted. People on cell phones, with children, in groups, or others who just aren’t paying enough attention to the people around them often become victims. Tourists are prime targets of street thieves. Another favorite target is those who set their bag down, even right next to themselves, for a grab-and-go theft. You can’t always be vigilant, especially when sightseeing, but you can use anti-theft gear to help thwart thieves and for your peace of mind. Select a pickpocket-proof purse designed with built-in anti-theft features and thwart pickpockets.

Purses That Pickpockets Love to Pick and Steal From

Avoid These Styles of Purses

Open Top Tote Bag  This style of bag is popular today because it’s so versatile, and looks stylish too. Your water bottle, your makeup bag, and other essentials are always handy, that’s the good news. The bad news is your phone, wallet, and other valuables are handy too, not just to you, but to thieves. A skilled pickpocket can reach into a tote resting on the shoulder of a woman and slide out her wallet, phone, or keys without her noticing that anything was removed

Shoulder Bag (one you can’t wear crossbody) Depending on the bag sometimes the top of this kind of purse is left open with no clasp, meaning your wallet is vulnerable, especially if there is enough room at the top to slide a hand into the bag. Otherwise, an enterprising thief can use a box cutter to cut open the back of the bag and remove your wallet through the slit. Stealing a cell phone from this kind of bag is a snap since the pouch for it is usually on the bag’s exterior. Avoid this style of bag for travel unless it has built-in anti-theft features and the bag strap is long enough to wear it crossbody.

Draw String Purse or Bag The drawstring purse is one of the easiest styles for pickpockets to steal from. Some thieves call it “the pickpocket’s best friend.”  Why is this? Simple mechanics really, in many cases drawstring purses are backpacks, which make the removal of items from within even simpler. These bags work by pulling the strings tighter to close the bag and loosening them to open it. Even the most novice thief can remove the wallet from one of these bags. All a thief needs to do is grip the drawstring of the purse and pull down gently, which gets them into the bag. There is no sound when they open the bag, and very little movement is involved which is great since it will leave the victim, or mark, which is the name some professional pickpockets call a victim, completely unaware that a thief just stole their wallet. Usually, the thief and your wallet are long gone before you discover the wallet missing.

Flap Purse The most beloved type of bag for a pickpocket. This type of purse usually contains one large pouch, covered by a flap that often has just a magnet-style closure. They come in all shapes and sizes, but thieves usually prefer the medium and larger-sized ones. The flap purse is still vulnerable even with a button or latch closure. A thief can get close enough to gently but firmly grip the button of the flap with his thumb and index finger and undo it, using his thumb to mask the sound. With a quick motion of the hand,  the prized wallet is in his hand.

Zippered Purse  You think this may be a secure style of bag, well it is, and it’s a bit more difficult than a flap purse to breach, however, this style can be simple for a skilled thief to conquer as well. A good thief can easily slide a zipper open without the wearer feeling it.  A thief will also try to distract you from noticing your zipper being unzipped – they will bump into you, distract you with a question, or use an accomplice to find another way to divert your attention. It only takes 2 seconds. Zipper bags vary and sometimes have multiple pouches, so a thief will often watch to see in which compartment the wallet is placed. The best pocket to carry a wallet is in a zippered pocket in the main compartment of the bag and on the side of the purse closest to the body.  Find an anti-theft zipper travel purse right for you

Clutch Purse This style can be tricky for thieves to pickpocket and it may not have a wallet inside due to its smaller size. That’s the good news. The bad news is once it is out of your hand, for even a second, the entire handbag is taken. This is a risky style to carry.

Side Flap A side flap purse is usually a medium to small purse that has one large compartment and one flap to close it up. This means one thin piece of fabric is all that is between your wallet and a thief, who can simply place his thumb over the clasp and then unbutton it. The real reason why this is on the list is because while walking this type of purse tends to “slide” to the back of your hip, placing it right in front of the opportunistic thief that is behind you

 

More Anti-Theft Travel Handbags and Pickpocket Proof Purses 

These pickpocket-proof purses also offer a full suite of anti-theft features. Even though they are anti-theft handbags they are ideal for around town too. The security features offered by all these travel bags include locking zippers to keep prying hands out. Most feature RFID-lined pocket(s) to protect the personal information stored on your credit cards and passport from being read by e-readers. The shoulder straps have a latch for detaching the strap and wrapping it around a fixed item like a chair back to prevent snatch-and-run thieves.


Fixed Pickpocket Proof Bags

Fanny Pack This style of bag can be just as easy to pick as your pocket. A good thief will simply press up against the victim, unbuckle the pack from the rear, and pass the fanny pack on to someone else. Sometimes, much like with wallets, the mark will still “feel” the bag on their body so they won’t even know that they have been victimized. Often thieves look for bags worn slightly to either side, then, masking their hand, slowly unzip the large compartment and remove the cash or wallet.

On the flip side, a fanny pack or waist pack is also a great way to carry your camera and other items you don’t want to put in your pocket or carry by hand. It’s all about choosing the right style of anti-theft waist pack that will provide hands-free freedom plus security for your valuables. The best security waist packs have locking zippers to stop a pickpocket from unzipping the waist pack, wire embedded into the back strap to stop someone from cutting the rear strap from behind, as well as metal mesh embedded into the material to stop bag cutters. All these anti-theft features guard your gear and give you peace of mind. Choose a style right for your needs.

How to spot a pickpocket travel scams in Europe

Young man taking a wallet from the backpack of a man walking on the street during the daytime.

Backpacks/Daypacks A thief really needs two things to handle backpacks, proximity and the ability to find the wallet quickly. Many daypacks have a drawstring and a button, and pickpockets will often look for one with the button undone or an unsecured flap. Don’t travel with this type of bag. The best travel backpacks have zippers that lockdown plus other anti-theft features. You really need to travel with one of these newer styles with a full suite of anti-theft features for peace of mind.

Backpack Purse Here is another pickpocket’s dream come true, a woman’s purse completely beyond her field of vision. Most backpack purses open with a clasp, the same as a flap purse, but there are some with straps or both. A pickpocket will wait until the victim is right in front of him and then gently unbuckle the strap or loosen the drawstring, which will open the purse wide. If done gently and quickly enough, the mark won’t notice because the back has fewer nerve endings than anywhere else.

Small Backpack Thieves also favor small backpacks because they are easy to open when out of the wearer’s sight. The lack of contact with the body and the lower density of nerves in the back make these bags an appealing target. It’s also easier to find the wallet quickly since it is a smaller area to search through. Security style backpacks for women and men

Unattended Bags A thief considers any unattended bag fair game. The most common places for women to leave their bags unattended are in grocery stores, restaurants, and in theaters. This is where using the strap to attach the bag to the cart handle, chair arm or chair back comes in handy.

pickpocket stealing from a back pocketPockets

Jacket Pockets Anything of value seen hanging out of a jacket pocket will soon vanish, and the most tempting item is loose cash. Wallets are just as easily plucked out, as well as cell phones or anything else that might be there. Our advice, place valuables in pockets that are not visible such as inside your jacket.

Back Pockets This is the sucker pocket, and anything carried in a back pocket is easily stolen. This is a favorite pocket for phones and wallets. Don’t use it, especially in a crowd. Use your front pants pocket. Even better, use a money belt tucked under your shirt. If you prefer something larger then select a pickpocket-proof purse. Get a small one that you can wear crossbody for hands-free convenience.

Top Scams Pickpockets Use to Steal Purses

Kick the Purse When a woman sits down at a table or bar she’ll often set her bag on a nearby chair or on the floor beside her. If it’s on the floor, a thief may wait until she is engrossed in either talking or eating. The purse thief will then casually walk past her table and gently kick the purse away from the table. Then he’ll pick it up and tuck it away or if the thief is a female, sling it over her shoulder as if it is hers. Small bags are usually taken this way.

Gas Station Ruse Many women fall victim to theft at gas stations. Their car is usually unlocked while pumping gas and they typically face the pump, not watching their valuables inside the vehicle. Thieves have perfected a few rip-offs at gas stations. The first is simply to open a woman’s car door while she is looking at the pump. The second is to steal her bag while she runs in quickly to pay. The third is to involve her in a distraction, either trouble with the pump, or to ask for directions. While she is distracted an accomplice steals the bag from the car. Our tip, keep your car door locked, or wear your bag crossbody style when you’re outside of the vehicle.

The Swarm This theft involves a team of crooks that use a crowded section of a city that is full of tourists. The crooks know the escape routes and the attractions that distract tourists most such as famous buildings, fountains, etc. Spreading out from key vantage points, one will alert the other when a mark is spotted.  The mark is an engrossed tourist who won’t even know what hit him while he consults a map or takes a photo. In a flash, a couple of people will bump into him talking loudly, and the next thing he knows his wallet, travel bag, or passport is stolen.

The Mommy Set Up A thief thinks of taking your possessions as a job. He probably tells himself that anyone who would be careless with their money or purse or wallet doesn’t deserve them. Some of them target playground areas where mothers take their children. The purse thief will look for two moms talking or perhaps a distracted mom on her phone. He then does something to make her child cry. Maybe take the child’s ball or throw sand on them. He knows the mother’s instinct for her child is greater than for her purse or shopping bags.

Once the mom rushes over, the thief will help himself to her wallet or bag, fading quickly out of sight. Women blend in better at a playground or park with children and they make less obvious thieves. Our tip: always wear your bag crossbody style, don’t leave it next to you

Restroom Snatch Have you ever noticed that purse hooks in restrooms are up high on the door? This gives easy access for a female thief to reach over the stall and be gone before you can react; throwing your purse over her shoulder like it belongs to her. An alternative theft is to take the wallet out of the snatched bag and to quickly throw the purse back over the stall, to startle you. Another way this theft is carried out is to place the stolen purse into a larger store shopping bag and walk nonchalantly among the shoppers of the mall or travelers at the airport.

Out of the Blue Densely populated cities, especially in Italy, are known for the occasional but shocking slash and grab theft from mopeds or bikes. The riders look for a woman walking near the edge of the sidewalk with her purse on her shoulder closest to the street.  As the thief drives by the victim from behind, he grabs the purse off her shoulder and speeds away.  Some thieves have been known to have an accomplice who rides on the back of the motorbike, and it is their job to complete the purse snatching, leaving the driving to the other thief.

In some shocking cases, they even use a knife to slash the strap. The key to this type of theft is finding a woman walking with the flow of traffic, and not facing it, so she cannot anticipate a thief riding a bike up from behind her.  See the best selection of security travel purses and handbags to help you keep your possessions secure.

Pickpocket-proof purses are also known as anti-theft bags, theft-proof purses, and security travel bags. A few of our favorite brands that make anti-theft travel bags are Travelon, Pacsafe, Lewis N Clark, Baggallini, and Sherpani.

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Looking for an anti-theft crossbody handbag for travel? If you’re planning on traveling finding an anti-theft crossbody handbag is a must. Today’s bags are so well designed that they are a popular choice for nontravelers for use as an everyday bag too.  Anti-theft crossbody bags or purses look like regular bags or purses however, their discreet built-in security features will let you enjoy even the most crowded tourist attractions with peace of mind knowing that your valuables are secure.  Anti-theft crossbody travel bags are practical, comfortable, and can keep your belongings safe from pickpockets with built-in anti-theft features.

The crossbody feature keeps your hands free and the bag secure on your body. The best way to carry your anti-theft crossbody travel purse is so it hangs a little bit in front of you and not bouncing on your back. This provides even more security from street thieves and pickpockets.

 Good Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel have:

A zipper closure that locks down. The number one feature to keep the hands of a pickpocket out of your bag is a zipper with a zipper pull that locks down with a clip to prevent it from being pulled open. Both Pacsafe and Travelon Bags offer this as a standard issue on their travel bags.

A hidden flexible wire in the strap. A flexible wire embedded in the bag strap prevents slice-and-run theft. Slice-and-run thefts typically happen more in crowds and busy tourist locations. Have peace of mind knowing your strap is slice-resistant.

A panel of wire mesh. Fused in the lower portion of the bag should be a wire mesh that stops bag slashers from cutting through your bag. The most vulnerable part of any bag for this type of crime is the lower and lower sides of the bag. Thieves who cut bags are looking for the bag contents to fall out into the awaiting hands before running off with them.

A pocket with RFID protection. Passports and credit cards contain your personal information embedded inside them. This information can be read by hand-held RFID readers up to 10 feet away and even through your bag. Store your credit cards and passport inside an RFID-blocking pocket of your bag to shield your personal data from theft.

What size handbag are you looking for long & skinny, small, medium, or large? Be like Goldilocks and find the right size for your next trip. Each size can hold a different number of items but they’re all anti-theft to safeguard your valuables.

Long & Skinny Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

1. Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody

This stylish anti-theft crossbody bag converts in size when you need it. The Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody expanded bag fits a tablet, as seen below. Folded down it’s perfect for an evening out.  This bag definitely does double duty. As with all Pacsafe bags, this bag has built-in security features to deter thieves, including digital or e-thieves.

Pacsafe convertible cross body bag, Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

2. Anti-Theft Classic Slim Double Zip Crossbody Bag

This Anti-Theft Classic Slim Double Zip Crossbody hugs your body comfortably. The roomy zip compartment is well thought out with RFID blocking card and passport slots, an open-top wall pocket, a zip wall pocket, and a tethered key clip with LED light. Two locking zip pockets on the front are perfect for keys, lipstick, tickets and other quick-grab items. The rear snap close pocket holds a map, book, or sunglasses. Travel securely and confidently with Travelon’s anti-theft features including slash-resistant construction, locking compartments, slash-resistant and locking straps to keep you and your belongings protected

Small Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

3. Anti-theft Signature Quilted E/W Slim Bag 

The Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Quilted E/W Slim Bag is perfect for carrying more than just the essentials. Two styles in one bag. It’s a clutch and cross body bag, depending on the strap you choose. Whether you’re off to work or a day of running errands, you’ll love keeping everything you need in an organized manner. The roomy main compartment features a zippered wall pocket, a tethered key clip with LED light, two drop pockets that are perfect for frequently needed items plus opens wide providing full access. The front locking zipper compartment has a zippered wall pocket, RFID protected Passport pocket and 5 RFID card slots plus room to hold additional items. The front slash pocket keeps your phone accessible and easy to locate. The rear zipper compartment is perfect for travel documents and can hold an iPad Mini. With Anti-Theft features like locking zippers, slash resistant, adjustable straps and body panels and RFID protection that keeps your identity secure from high-tech electronic readers, you can travel safely and securely. This Crossbody bag effortlessly integrates a signature style and is an excellent addition to your accessory collection.

4. Travelon Anti-Theft Boho Slim Crossbody Bag

VIDEO: Perfectly sized, the Anti-Theft Boho Slim Crossbody Bag will go with you long after your travels are over. The locking main compartment has RFID blocking technology to stop e-thieves from reading your personal information embedded in credit cards and passports. Well thought out compartments will keep your essentials organized and handy and the adjustable slash-resistant strap secures to a stationary object to prevent grab and go theft.

Travelon Anti-Theft Boho Slim Crossbody top trending travel bags

5 Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Crossbody

This Pacsafe bag has an RFID-blocking pocket that protects the personal info embedded in your passport and credit cards plus all the other security features you’ve come to expect from Pacsafe.  You’ll keep using this bag long after your trip is over. CAN BE LOCKED TO FIXTURES – With an adjustable, wire-reinforced anchor strap, the crossbody bag can be secured around a table or chair to keep your belongings secure, to protect your wallet, passport, laptop/tablet and phone where items need to be left unattended.

Medium Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

6. Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag with RFID Protection

The Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody RFID Blocking Bag is a great travel bag when you want style with security and hands-free convenience. Its slim profile and crossbody design is comfortable and looks fashionable no matter what the season, expressly designed to be worn the most secure way which is slung across your body.

Travelon Classic Cross-body bag with RFID best seller trending travel bag

Travelon Classic Cross-body Bag with RFID

7. Anti-theft Signature Quilted Expansion Cross Body Bag

A locking zippered roomy main compartment allows you to take more than just the basics with you. It features 5 RFID blocking card slots, a RFID Passport pocket, a large zippered wall pocket plus a slash pocket that is ideal for glasses, a smartphone or other frequently needed items. It can even fit an iPad. The long, cut-resistant, adjustable strap lets you carry the bag as a crossbody for hands-free convenience, or traditionally over your shoulder. The swivel clasp allows the strap to move freely and it can also be attached to a stationary object to prevent a grab-n-go. With 2 front-locking zippered pockets, a deep rear zippered pocket and a tethered key clip that allows you to easily locate your keys you will be well organized. Made from durable water & stain resistant nylon and accented in gorgeous antique brass finished hardware.

Best selling top trending anti-theft Boho square Crossbody bag for travel

Travelon Anti-theft Boho Square Crossbody, MORE COLORS

 

8. Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Bag

The Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Bag is a lightweight bag that features 3 locking compartments to provide discreet, yet highly effective protection against pickpockets. The signature pleats on the front & brushed brass zipper accents, add style & and a fashion-forward look, fooling anyone into thinking this is just an everyday bag! The coordinating RFID-blocking travel wallet like the purse can be used long after your trip is over.

3 compartment bag Anti-Theft Crossbody Handbag for Travel

9. Secura™ RFID-Blocking Anti-Theft Cross-Body

This medium-sized bag infuses style and security into what will be your favorite travel bag. Lightweight and with decorative hardware that does double duty as built-in security features. One opening to secure and to hold your essentials for peace of mind. This travel bag is equipped with RFID protected card slots and locking zippers. The adjustable shoulder strap and bag panels contain stainless steel cable and magnaloft fabric providing anti-slash, anti-theft security. Exterior locking pocket for your cell phone. Plenty of room in the interior zipper pockets to safely store your passport, wallet, keys, and more.

Large Anti-theft Crossbody Handbags for Travel

10. Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag

This lightweight cross-body bucket bag is very comfortable to wear, it offers a slash-proof strap that can be attached to a post or table with ease. Great size for carrying everyday items as well as a small iPad or reader. The front and main locking compartments offer slash-proof construction for peace of mind along with the RFID reader blocking card slots. The outside mesh panels easily store a water bottle and umbrella. Locking main compartment plus an organization compartment with RFID blocking card and passport slots. Slash-resistant body and adjustable, slash-resistant shoulder strap attaches to chair or post. Front slash pocket, zip rear pocket and removable LED light.

11. Women’s Citysafe CX Anti Theft Convertible Backpack-Fits 10″ Tablet

Two stylish anti-theft bags in one – the city safe CX convertible backpack can be worn as a backpack or fold down to sling over your shoulder as a handbag. There’s room for a wallet, cosmetics case, and more, with zipper security and a cut-resistant anchor strap to keep everything protected.

Final thought for finding a best-selling anti-theft crossbody handbag for travel

When reviewing the various best sellers of travel bags, be sure to focus on anti-theft crossbody handbags for travel. These are proven favorites by seasoned and infrequent travelers alike. Consider if you’ll need a bag that accommodates an umbrella or water bottle or a bag that just keeps your travel wallet, phone, or small camera safe.  One tip when looking at bags online is to have a ruler and one of your current handbags for comparing sizes.

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The Best Money Belts to Hide Money, Credit Cards, and Passports

Travel Smart and Keep Valuables Close and Secure

The best travel money belt is a security money belt or pouch and it can be your most important travel accessory, especially when visiting busy and popular tourist attractions. It is in these locations where pickpockets and thieves target tourists. Shield and protect your valuables from pickpockets, distraction thieves, and snatch and run crooks with a hidden money belt, security neck, or body pouch. A money belt depending on its size and design is used to hide money, cash, passports, identification, and other valuables that you don’t want to lose.

 What is a Money Belt?

A money belt is a personal item and is not a “one size fits all” by any means. The best money belt designs have anti-theft technology and offer various designs and sizes, so you’re sure to find one just right for you. Now you have a choice of traditional belts with a zipper to hold just bills, wallets you wear on your leg, and wallets you hide under pants. There are even more styles which you wear around your neck or waist and tucked under clothing. Enjoying water sport or the beach? No problem, you can choose from a variety of completely waterproof styles of money belts so you can swim and play in the water while keeping your passport and other valuables close and dry!

Read on to learn about the various types of best money belts and secret wallets available with anti-theft features. The latest styles of neck and body pouches have RFID blocking material lined pockets to stop identity theft by tech-savvy thieves.

Why Use a Money Belt?

You want to select a money belt for a sense of security and peace of mind, and to protect your money and other smaller valuables from thieves. Money belts also keep your hands free so you can do more, as you don’t need to hold or worry about a bag. Bottom line – A money belt is the best investment you’ll make costing you only $10- $35.

What are the Pros and Cons of Travel Money Belts and Pouches, Neck Pouches, or Waist Wallets?

Waist Style or Under-Clothing Money Belt

Best money belt Breathable and flat money belt

Breathable and flat money belt to wear under clothes

This style of money belt can be worn either tightly against the stomach with your shirt or blouse covering it or dropped loosely into your pants below your waistband. If you are going to purchase one of these – give strong consideration to a money belt that has a steel cable embedded within the rear strap so it cannot be cut by a sneak thief from behind and pulled off.  There are several popular styles of waist wallets with built-in anti-theft features such as RFID blocking to guard your passport, credit cards, and identity. Consider what you’ll be securing in your money and select a style with the appropriate number of pockets to keep your valuables handy and organized.

Tips for Wearing a Money Belt

  1. The safest way to wear a waist wallet or money belt is tucked inside your pants. The strap should fit loose enough to tuck below your pant waistband so that is not visible. The pouch should also be tucked into your pants. If you choose to wear the waist wallet outside of your pants make sure your shirt is long enough to cover the money belt from view. Try this at home before you pack.
  2. If you wear your shirt un-tucked, be aware that a professional pickpocket could bump into you in a crowd, lift your shirt, cut the rear strap, and flee with the belt in a matter of seconds. An embedded steel cable in the waistband makes this type of theft impossible. Alternately keeping the money belt strap tucked below the waistband of your pants protects you from this type of theft too.

Best Money Belt for Runners

The best money belt for a runner is slim and fitted to the body to prevent bouncing. The beauty of this belt is that it can be worn when not exercising too while walking around town and sight-seeing during travel.

best money belt for runnersBest money belt for runners

 

Best Full-Sized Money Belt

This money belt fits 3 passports easily, has RFID protection, and is water-resistant. What’s more, the money belt strap is elastic for comfort and to fit a variety of waists. See more colors by clicking on the image.

Best full size money belt

Check price for the best full size money belt

Best High-Tech Money Belt with Theft Insurance

This money belt is made by Peak Gear of 210D ripstop nylon so it is lightweight and durable. Besides having built-in RFID blocking technology this money belt also includes 2 global recovery tags that you attach to valuables like your phone or passport. Attach the tags to your phone, passport, camera, etc. If the protected items are ever lost and found, ReturnMe’s 24/7 call center will help get the items back to your door, from anywhere in the world. There is NO additional cost. This comfortable and slim belt is the perfect travel accessory with adjustable straps that fit both women and men. The moisture-wick backing will keep the pouch cool against your skin, especially useful for all day use or in warm climates.

best Money Belt for travelCheck prie for Peak Gear best money belt

 

Best Hidden Wallet – Belt Loop Wallet

Belt money belt loop wallet for travel

Slide your belt through the loop and wear it tucked inside your pants. Easy to pull out while it remains on your belt.

We think a belt loop wallet is a great style of travel wallet if your wear a belt. This style of money belt is a single pouch that hangs inside your pants from your belt or belt loop. It is usually made out of nylon or cotton and has one or two zippered compartments. It is very easy to slide out and tuck back in. This is an extremely secure way to carry cash and cards since it is attached to your belt. Some designs are large enough to hold your passport, money, and a credit card.  Many designs offer two different colored belt loops (black and brown) to blend in with your belt, so it is not so obvious that you have a belt-secured wallet. A popular design is this belt loop wallet because it is completely hidden with zippered compartments to secure contents.

All About Neck Wallets – Money Belt Alternative

Travelers have relied on neck wallets, often referred to as a security neck pouch or neck safe for years.  They are one of the most common and secure types of money pouches and are highly recommended by experienced travelers. Quality neck pouches are made with soft moisture-wicking fabric for comfort.

However, neck wallets do have some drawbacks. A neck pouch hangs under your clothes, and the biggest complaint is that depending on the type of shirt or blouse worn, it may take a while to get to it when needed.

Best money belt Underclothing security neck wallet pouch

Underclothing security neck pouch.

Whenever possible you do not want people to see that you are wearing a money pouch around your neck. Neck pouches are designed to be flat and not bulky, even though a tight-fitting top will reveal that you’re wearing a neck pouch so look for one with a long strap so that you can lengthen it and wear it lower towards the stomach. Lowering it also makes it easier to access because you just need to lift up the bottom of your shirt. The bottom line is even if noticeable, a neck wallet is a great security wallet because no pickpocket or thief can reach through your shirt and get at the contents.

Considerations for a Neck Wallet or Body Pouch

  1. When worn for long periods of time, you may be aware of it more than other money belts.
  2. When considering the purchase of a neck pouch, think about one in a tan or beige color.  A black one may be easily seen if you are wearing light-colored clothing and thereby calling attention to it.
  3. Always purchase a quality neck pouch that has some type of inner liner. The inner liner works as a moisture barrier to protect contents.
  4. Consider how you will retrieve items from the neck pouch. If you are wearing it when you go to dinner at a nice restaurant, will you have to excuse yourself to the restroom in order to unbutton your shirt to retrieve your money or credit cards? This may not be a problem if you are a student and backpacking your way across Europe, but for others, you may want to consider another style or plan ahead and tuck what you need in a secure pocket.
  5. A thief may recognize the pouch strap around your neck (they are not that hard to recognize) and a non-reinforced strap can be easily cut from behind by a skilled pickpocket and then pulled off your body. Therefore, the best type of neck pouch to wear is one that has a wire woven throughout the length of the strap. That way your property is better protected from snatch and run thieves. This is one of our favorite styles of neck wallet or neck pouch to recommend.

Leg Pouch Money Belt

This device straps around your calf, or like the photo here slides on like a sock to stay secure. Leg safes have pockets in the sock sleeve where you place your money and passport, so it’s a money belt too. Leg safes or leg wallets are adjustable to fit most leg sizes and, of course, need to be worn only when you’re wearing long pants. These are ideal “second wallets” when you want to split up where you carry your valuables.

Classic Money Belt

Always popular when looking for a dressy option this is a real hold-up-your-pants leather money belt with a zippered compartment on the inside that stores a dozen currency notes. It’s a proven favorite for the holidays! Classic money belts only conceal cash, they do not conceal passports or credit cards.

Best Leather Money Belt

On the inside of the belt is a slim zippered compartment that remains hidden from view. The hidden money belt was made to keep your cash hidden and safe from sly pickpockets. Designed to look like a regular belt, these types of money belts come in a more finished look. They can be worn with a dress or casual pants, as well as shorts, and not look out of place.

Leather money beltCheck price best leather n=money belt

Airport Friendly TSA Money Belts Won’t Set Off Metal Detectors

Designed to help save time and hassle from going through security checkpoints and metal detectors at airport screening stations. TSA beep free belts are made of nylon webbing, non-metal buckles, and non-metal zippers. The buckle (the part that sets off most metal detectors) is made out of a rigid, and security-friendly composite material that will not set off the screening station alarm.  Hidden in the back of the belt is a zipper compartment to hide bills.  It is completely made of nylon and high-impact plastic, including the zipper track and pull so it is completely TSA friendly. With no metal in the belt, you won’t have to worry about having your belt buckle set off TSA airport metal detectors. Learn more about TSA Screening Money belts.

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Best tsa approved money belt

 

 

Waterproof Fanny Packs, Neck Pouches, and Body Pouches

When going to the beach, parasailing, or simply swimming in a hotel pool where do you store your valuables? Now you can play, lounge, or snorkel and not worry about who’s watching your valuables!  Take them swimming with you for peace of mind.  See the latest designs of water-proof gear that protects your valuables, including your phone and take them with you into the water.water proof money belt drybag waist pack
Check price for drybag waist pack

Advice and tips for keeping valuables secure in a money belt

  • Keep your money belt completely out of sight. The most secure way to wear it is over your underwear but beneath your pants.
  • Conceal the belt even more with a longer untucked shirt, or better yet wear your shirt tucked in.
  • If you’re wearing a neck pouch style money belt, wear it bandolier style with it tucked under one arm and over the shoulder of the opposite arm.
  • Minimize what you carry for the day leaving the balance of valuables in your hotel room safe. Carry the cash, credit card, and ID you need just for that day.

Before you leave on your trip, spend some time understanding how pickpockets operate so you can “see them coming” before they get your wallet, camera, or phone.  Get a quick tutorial by watching videos of “pickpockets in action.” Before You Go – Watch Real Pickpocket Videos and Read Up on Pickpocket Scams

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Paris Pickpockets and scams in paris

With over 2.2 million city residents and millions of tourists, it is easy to see how this crowded city can make a petty thief rich. If you travel there you should know how to avoid pickpockets in Paris.  The US Embassy reports that major sites such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Elysées are prime hunting grounds for Paris pickpockets who work near these tourist attractions. Additional areas where travelers need to be vigilant of pickpocket scams in Paris include metro trains, monuments, trains, train stations, hotels, airports, and parks.

Where Pickpockets Lurk in Paris

There is never enough time to truly discover Paris. From the breathtaking sites of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de la Triomphe, the Louvre, Sacre Coeur, and to the romantic walkways along the Seine River or narrow streets on the Cité Island, there are many reasons for travelers to explore the Paris to the city limits. Because there is a large concentration of museums, monuments, and parks in proximity, it creates the perfect hunting ground for petty thieves and pickpockets in Paris. The following tourist sites are frequented by pickpockets and other thieves: Madeleine, Arc de Triomphe, Champs, Sacre, L’Opera, George Pompidou Center, Porte de Clingnancourt flea market, and the Eiffel Tower.

Video of Young Paris Pickpockets

Watch this video so you can see what a typical group of young teenage pickpockets looks like when they travel as a group.  While they look like an innocent group of kids, trust that they are far from it.  Note how they will cover their faces when they see that someone is filming them.

Pickpocket Scams at Paris Museums and Monuments

The following is a list of typical Paris pocket picker scams that are reported around local museums and monuments.

  • No place in Paris is safe from the skillful, delicate hand of a pickpocket. While touring the Musee D’Orsay you may notice fellow tourists and even Parisians examining the superb collection of art, including the young, unknown man dressed in khaki trousers, a pink, Polo button-down shirt with a large camera hanging from his neck. You and the man must be walking through the museum at the same pace because he keeps accidentally bumping into you. After viewing the treasures of the museum, you start to make your way out and notice that your bag is unzipped and open. In fact, your wallet is missing. The fellow tourist was not only examining the exhibitions; he was also examining you.
  • The Eiffel Tower is probably the area with the most pickpockets and swindlers. The grounds below the tower are open and quite large. In 2009, 6.6 million visitors took in the world-class views from the top deck. With millions of travelers carrying valuables such as money, cameras, purses, etc., it is no wonder that a man would spend his entire day there zipping around on rollerblades and grabbing whatever he can. Because of the rollerblades, he can escape quickly and never be caught.
  • There are even small, organized gangs that operate on the Eiffel Tower grounds. They may be selling miniature statues of the Eiffel Tower or other souvenirs. When you try to pay for the trinket, one of the “salesmen” grabs your purse, wallet or waist pack and runs away. Although there is a police presence to protect visitors from these occurrences, the thieves have learned to outsmart the police by throwing the stolen goods from member to member until they disappear.

Solution: If you are interested in purchasing a souvenir from a street vendor, after selecting the item and agreeing on a price, step back from the group; discreetly remove the needed money and return to pay. Try to maintain a distance from the salesmen, so that your items are not within hand’s reach. Also, keep small change for these sorts of purchases separate from your passport and wallet. Do not expect street vendors to make change for you.

Tips to Avoid Pickpockets in Paris

  1. Always be aware of your surroundings. When observing the sites, make sure to also observe those around you. If you find yourself in a crowded area, such as an elevator, keep an eye or hand on all of your belongings.
  2. Take only what you need for the day, the rest should stay in your hotel safe or in a portable safe in your room.
  3.  Guard your valuables (passport, credit card, phone) with an anti-theft waist pack or hidden underclothing waist wallet.
  4. Bring no more cash (Euros) than what you expect to spend and only one credit card, your second backup credit card be stored in your safe.
  5. If wearing a purse only wear it crossbody style, and make sure it has a locking zipper.
  6. Do not place anything in your back pocket, only use your front pocket, or better yet use a money belt you tuck into the front of your pants.

Additional Paris Pickpocket Scams

  • Most travelers expect thieves to be gangs of men. However, there are also small groups of women who eagerly await the daily arrival of new visitors. A woman or group of women may approach you with a sign or even text on a piece of paper. The text may be in French or even English. While you take a look at what is on the paper, one of the other women will take a look at what valuables you are carrying and grab what they can. This is the classic distraction technique.
  • There are many, often long lines to enter the Eiffel Tower. While waiting in line (between 15 minutes and 2 hours), you notice two teenage girls greeting the people in line. They seem very nice and approach you by saying, “Hello”, while gently touching your shoulder from the front. As she touches you from the front, you don’t notice the other girl taking your belongings from behind.
  • Once you finally enter the lobby to take the elevators to the top of the Eiffel Tower, you are safe, right? No. Per the Overseas Security Advisory Council, thieves take advantage of the crowded conditions

  • A must see is the Louvre. With an exhibition area of 652,300 square feet, you could spend years in the Louvre and still not see everything. In 2008, 8.5 million guests visited the vast collection. Next to the Louvre Place is the Garden of Tuileries, making this a very big tourist attraction. What attracts tourists will always attract pickpockets. University-aged students may attempt to collect signatures for a cause from the hundreds of tourists waiting in line. It seems like a prime opportunity to gather many signatures in a short amount of time. It is also a prime opportunity to be robbed with your hands and eyes occupied with the petition.
  • People may also campaign for relief for third-world countries by asking for small donations. Once you stop to learn more, a group of people surrounds you and attempts to lure more money or simply take what they want. This and the previous signature scam can occur all over the city, including The Louvre, Garden of Tuileries and on the Champs-Elysées.
  • An iconic site in Paris is the Cathedral of Notre Dame. The cathedral is especially popular for visitors taking a city bus tour. There is a large, open square in front of Notre Dame that provides a fantastic resting place to enjoy the weather and the gothic architecture. While relaxing in the square, a fellow traveler asks if you can help translate a flyer for a café. While you examine the text, his accomplice makes off with your camera bag. This pickpocket method of distraction is performed by men, women, and even small children.
  • Once you arrive at Notre Dame, you notice that there is a very long line to enter. You contemplate if you should stand in line, and a person approaches you offering to sell you tickets to enter the cathedral. You purchase two tickets and wait in line only to find out that there is no entrance fee. If you do want to climb the staircase to the top of the cathedral, you can pay at the desk inside the cathedral.
  • After taking in the views from the top of the cathedral, you make your way down and exit. As you walk out the door, a blind man bumps into you. You are distracted by the waving of his cane as he tries to find his balance. Later at a café, you realize that your money is missing. The blind man was not blind at all. When he bumped into you, he quickly made a grab for the cash in your pocket.
  • Deaf and Dumb Trick. A young or old man or woman approaches you indicating that they are deaf and dumb.  She has a clipboard. It looks like a petition. You sign your name. She asks you for money as you just signed a pledge to give a donation. It is written minimum 10 euros.  Almost always, the people are not deaf, they just pretend to be – which you may observe if you stand back and watch them for a while.  The best response to these types of situations is to say simply”no thank you” and walk away.

Solution: Try to keep a distance from strangers. If someone bumps into you, check your pockets and bags immediately.

More Paris Pickpocket Scams

  • Settled on a hilltop in the Montmartre neighborhood is the stunning Basilica of the Sacre Coeur. This is an excellent location to view the city from above, especially when lit at night. While taking a peek inside of the Basilica, a man lightly bumps into you as you are admiring a statue. Startled, you look at the man, and then out of the corner of your eye, you catch the movement of the man’s hand in your purse.
  • The steps in front of the Sacre Coeur are a popular hangout for young people and tourists. As you search for a good place to rest on the steps, a man approaches and offers to perform a “let’s be friends” trick.  Americans love to be loved and hate to be embarrassed in public, which makes them a perfect target for this type of scam.  The man who approached you innocently asks if you’ll help him  (or her) with a “demonstration” for other curious tourists.  The scammer proceeds to scam artists and tourists make a “friendship bracelet” right on your wrist.  But when he’s finished, you’re suddenly and unexpectedly asked to pay for this simple string bracket.  Since you can’t easily take it off, you pay up to avoid creating a scene in front of the crowd.
  • Another version of the string bracelet being tied around the wrist starts off the same way, but this time you are confused because this is no trick and
  •  once the bracelet is tied, the man can see if you are wearing a watch and steal it, or a group of friends quickly surround you and demand money for the bracelet, you are forced to “pay-
    Avoid paris pickpocket scams

    Thieves and Pickpockets Prey on Tourists in Crowds

    up” for the bracelet in order to get your watch back.  Stay clear of anyone trying to approach you with the bracelet scam.

  • Famous artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso once had studios in the Montmartre neighborhood. Today tourists can still visit the tiny streets and the decadent bistros of this hilltop quarter. A local artist may even approach you offering to sketch a caricature of you. After much convincing, you finally agree. The artist has indeed sketched a very fun portrait, and after he charges you a steep price of 50 Euros.
  • You decided to visit the Centre Pompidou to see what the controversy is about – some people find the contemporary style to be an eyesore and some truly appreciate it. You sit down on a bench outside of the center, and another person sits down on the same bench, but behind you and facing the opposite direction. The pickpocket then carefully slides their hands into your jacket pocket and steals everything inside. They then quickly disappear into the crowd.

Solution: When you sit, you cannot feel the weight of your heavy pockets or bags. This makes it easier for a petty thief to take what he wants without you noticing. Try to keep belongings out of sight from others. If this is not possible, hold them in front of you, or in eye’s sight when taking a rest.

Additionally, never purchase anything without agreeing to a price beforehand. There are many pickpockets and swindlers in this area, so beware.

Pickpockets Scams in Paris Neighborhoods and In-between

The city of Paris is split into districts or quarters. Many of these neighborhoods are unique and attract many visitors. The Marais, Les Halles, Latin Quarter, Republique and especially the Pigalle quarter are areas where travelers should pay special attention to their belongings.

  • While walking through the streets of “Old Paris” in the Marais quarter, you refer to your travel guide to find directions to Place des Vosges. While studying the guide, a French woman asks if she could look quickly at your book. As the woman examines the map in the book, you realize that another man is standing very close to you. The woman quickly gives back the book and the two walk off together. You inspect your bag and notice that one of the zippers is open, and money is missing.
  • The Pigalle is known as the adult entertainment district of Paris.  The US State Department reports, “Many entertainment establishments in this area engage in aggressive marketing and charge well beyond the normal rate for drinks. Reports of threats of violence to coerce patrons into paying exorbitant beverage tabs are not uncommon. There have also been several violent confrontations between rival gangs in the district, including one in August 2007 one block from the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret. Visitors are encouraged to avoid this area unless touring with a well-organized and reputable tour company.”
  • It is a beautiful, warm summer evening and you decide to walk from Montmartre to the city center via the Pigalle district. When near the Moulin Rouge a man sees you smoking and asks for a cigarette. You give the man a cigarette and another passerby also asks for a cigarette; you give this person a cigarette too. The next morning when you pack your travel pack for the day, you are unable to find your camcorder. Thinking back on the previous evening, you realize that the people who asked for cigarettes were actually working as a team to distract you and steal from you.
  • To stroll the streets along the River Seine is a wonderful way to view the splendid bridges of Paris, some even centuries old. Unfortunately, Parisians and tourists are not the only people taking in the sights of the city; pickpockets also work this well-traveled path. A fellow passerby stops to ask you which direction the famous Pont Neuf, the most famous and oldest bridge in the city. You pull out your map to help guide the friendly traveler in the right direction and beneath the map, the traveler has their hands in your bags.
  • There are many joggers in Paris; it is a beautiful place to get some exercise. A jogger dressed in a Nike outfit accidentally bumps into you and knocks you down. He apologizes and frantically tries to help you up. He also helps himself to the contents of your pocket.  If someone is truly lost and you wish to offer assistance, it may be a better idea to hand over your map, so they can find the location on their own. This allows you to keep an eye on your belongings and pockets, while they find their way.  If someone bumps into you, first check to make sure their hands are not on you.
  • While walking across Le Pont de l’Archevêché (bridge) a passerby accidentally spills their ice cream cone on your back. The person apologetically stops and pulls out tissues to help you clean off your shirt. While they help clean your shirt, they also help themselves to your back pocket.
  • Walking home from a late dinner, you notice a group of 10 or 11-year old kids skating on the sidewalks and clumsily bumping into people. At first, you enjoy watching the children having fun on their rollerblades, but the longer you watch, you see one of the children bump into an old man and swipe the wallet from his back pocket.
  • The Overseas Security Advisory Council reports that petty theft can also occur in Parisian department stores such as Galleries Lafayette, Printemps, and Bon Marché. Thieves swipe wallets, credit cards or even passports that customers set on counters when paying.

Pickpockets and Travel Scams at Paris Restaurants and Hotels

People at h Eiffel Tower at night, watch out for pickpockets and thieves

  • You arrive in Paris exhausted and jet-lagged at 6 a.m. You arrive at your hotel and are unable to check in until 2 p.m., but the hotel agrees to hold your bags until then. You decide to go to a nearby café to try your first, authentic, French croissant and a café au lait. You pay the waiter and then once you leave, you realize that he double charged you. Always check a menu before entering a restaurant or café and always examine the bill at the end of a meal.
  • Although there are fast-food chains such as McDonald’s, Subway, and KFC in Paris, these restaurants usually attract American tourists and pickpockets know this. You want a break from the foreign and decide to enjoy a hamburger at one of the surprisingly clean and stylish chains in the city. You sit down at a table, and a few minutes later, another diner asks to share your table. When the man next to you leaves, he grabs his bag and yours as well.
  • You decide to eat breakfast at your hotel and take your travel pack with you so you can immediately start your sightseeing afterward. Because the breakfast room is on the lower floor of the hotel, you set your pack on the chair across from you. After you finish eating, you collect your things, but to your surprise, your bag is gone. A thief, pretending to be a guest, snuck into the hotel to take the belongings of unsuspecting travelers.
  • After returning from a long day of sightseeing, you return to the room to find that your bags are open and empty, even the socks and undergarments are missing. The only other person who had access to the room was the cleaning staff.  You never know where or when you will be the victim of theft. Keep items in your hotel room locked using a luggage lock or a portable travel safe with a padlock.
  • The US State Department reports, “In hotels, thieves target lobbies and breakfast rooms, and take advantage of moments of inattention to snatch jackets, purses, and backpacks. While many hotel rooms do have safety latches that allow guests to secure their rooms from inside, this feature is not as universal as it is in the United States. If no chain or latch is present, a chair placed up against the door and wedged under the handle is usually an effective obstacle to surreptitious entry during the night. There are, however, reports of thieves breaking into hotel rooms on lower floors through open windows while the occupants are sleeping. To guard against this, hotel room windows should be kept locked at all times. Whenever possible, valuables should be kept in the hotel safe.”

How to Outfox Pickpockets In Paris – Explore the City like a Local

  1. Dress like the locals. Parisians typically dress in darker or neutral colors. Shorts, running shoes, baseball caps, and t-shirts scream “tourist.”
  2. Learn a few French phrases. Parisians are more likely to help you if you make an effort to speak their language.
  3. Familiarize yourself with the local currency in your hotel room, not in a public square. You can even research the different Euro bills online before leaving home.
  4. It is great to be patriotic, but try to avoid wearing the US flag on your backpack or clothing. This again indicates that you are a tourist.
  5. Visit less crowded attractions such as the Musée D’Orsay. The larger Louvre, for example, is always busy with both visitors and petty thieves.
  6. The Police authorities in Paris have created a safety guide for travelers, Paris  – Complete Safety. The guide offers tips on how to avoid becoming a victim and who to contact if theft occurs.

Protect your valuables when traveling from pickpockets. Select one or two different styles of travel security accessories such as an anti-theft waist pack, money belt, passport pouch, or antitheft backpack before you go for peace of mind.

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Avoid children pickpockets in Venice Italy

Venice is a great “don’t miss” city in Italy, but it’s also where pickpockets prey on tourists. Like tourists, pickpockets love Venice, too. The allure of Venice with its great history, art, beautiful sights, and of course, gondolas attract tourists and tourists attract pickpockets, scam artists, and street thieves; the more tourists there are, the more pickpockets there are.  After the summer months, Carnival is the next popular time of year when pickpocketing increases with the increase of tipsy, foreign visitors. Here’s a quick read to help you avoid pickpocket scams and tourist scams in Venice, Italy.

Pickpocket Scams Are A Part of Venice Italy

The most popular areas for tourists to visit are where you could most likely fall victim to a pickpocket, as they love crowds to get lost in once they’ve committed their crime. The following are the most common locations where you need to keep your guard up and above all guard your valuables by using anti-theft travel gear like a hidden money belt or a backpack with lock-down zippers to keep thieving hands. Armed with some street smarts and the right travel gear you’ll be relaxed and able to enjoy your time in Venice, Italy.

The Most Common Locations for Pickpockets to Prey on Tourists

The most popular locations for pickpockets have a few things in common. The locations all have crowds and many distracted tourists enjoying the sites.

  • Piazza di San Marco
  • Academia Museum
  • the Rialto Bridge
  • smaller crowded bridges
  • crowded narrow streets
avoid tourist scams in Venice , pickpockets st marks square

St Mark’s Square – The most visited tourist location in Venice

The Most Common Types of Theft Committed Against Tourists Involve

  1. Distractions: An example is someone close to you creates a sudden distraction such as asking the time or for directions. We’ve seen staged shouting matches between a woman and a man designed to distract you while your pocket is picked.  If this happens, this could be a setup for someone getting ready to steal your wallet or valuables as you turn your attention to the distraction.
  2. Back pocket wallet thefts are very common in Venice. Outsmart these thieves with an under clothing money belt for travel that safeguards your money, credit cards, and passport.

Pickpocket Scams on Venice Water Bus or also Known as Vaporetto

Since the canals are the main transportation in Venice, many travelers use water taxis as transportation. These water taxis are known by several names including public boats, water buses, or in Italian – “Il Vaporetto” or “Motoscafi.” While these boats run almost constantly, the Vaporetto is usually overcrowded and people are jammed in like sardines, which is why it is favored by pickpockets.  The pickpockets know tourists love to ride on these boats. So pickpockets too love the boats.

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The Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal

A Few Tips to Avoid Pickpockets While Riding on Venice Water Taxis

  1. The standard water bus or autobus fare is a rather steep € 6,00 for the popular lines on the Grand Canal.
  2. The Vaporetto (waterbus) that travels between the Academia and Rialto boat debarkation stops is known to be a favorite of tourists and pickpockets alike. When the Vaporetto is full on a rainy day, the commotion of passengers entering and disembarking creates an ideal situation for thieves to add luggage or a few wallets to their collections.
  3. Pickpockets look for those who get caught in the crowd rushing toward the water taxi embarkation ramps.
  4. Venice pickpockets are also known to take advantage of those waiting in line to get onto a water ferry.  Depending on the time of day, the lines can be very long and pickpockets have been known to work their way into the crowd.
  5. Be careful if you are parking at the Tronchetto and want to ride the public Vaporetto boat into Venice. Men have been known to surround travelers and told where to walk.  Many of these people will not direct you to the right place – they will direct you to the private taxi boats and not the public Vaporetto dock. There you will be over-charged.
Venice Water Taxi, avoid pickpocket and tourist scams in Venice

A Vaporetto is a water taxi and Vence’s major from of public transportation

Most tourists fall victim to pickpockets during the height of the travel season – summer – where skilled Venice pickpockets take advantage of overcrowded water taxis. However, rainy days are also common times when pickpockets seem to strike travelers more since the water taxis are packed to the gills with travelers. Avoid pickpockets and tourist scams in Venice by guarding your valuables with anti-theft travel wallets, money belts, and bags.

Protect your credit cards and money with an anti-theft travel wallet. This is a favorite one for men, make sure you use the belt loop attachment feature, while many women prefer this style of travel wallet and purse, it fits a passport and most phones.

Once pickpockets have stolen a wallet, many drop the stolen wallet(s) in mailboxes around the city – keeping only the cash. Identification and credit cards not belonging to them make it easier to catch these thieves; therefore many of these items are not valuable for particular pickpockets. The postal service then delivers the abandoned wallets to the local police. The police only return a missing wallet if someone comes looking for it.

Always try to avoid pickpocket scams and tourist scams in Venice by staying slightly suspicious of strangers who get too close or are too friendly. One lesson to learn here is to split up where you carry your valuables if you opt not to carry an anti-theft wallet or bag that protects all your valuables. That way if you are victimized you’ll still have some of your important belongings.

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8 Things Not to Keep in you wallet, Ever! ,

Travelers are targets for savvy pickpockets and thieves. Tourist season is their busy season That’s why you need to pack pickpocket-proof clothing for travel. Now your clothing can function as what separates you from a pickpocket. Scarves, pants, shirts, socks, and underwear now have discreet and hidden pockets designed to hold valuables close and secure.  These clever travel clothes make great bon voyage gifts too. Here are a few of our favorite items.

infinity travel scarf with hidden pocket

Made with soft and durable fabric the hidden pocket on this infinity travel scarf fits an iPhone+ and your passport. The key to this stylish scarf is the fabric, too flimsy and the loaded pocket weighs down the scarf, too stiff and your comfort is compromised. This one is just right and is available in many colors.

Scotte Vest 16 pocket feather weight vest

Made by ScotteVest this Featherweight Vest has 16 pockets! You’d never know it the design is superior and even boasts an RFID blocking pocket to keep e-pickpockets from stealing your personal information.  Breeze through airport security and TSA checkpoints by storing all your electronics, documents, gadgets and accessories in this lightweight breathable vest. Simply unzip the vest, take it off and walk through security without having to unload everything! Going through airport security has never been this easy!

 


pickpocket proof underwear

 

Comfortable, made of 95% cotton and 5% spandex this style of boxer-briefs has zippered pockets for maximum security. Why wouldn’t you invest a few extra dollars to protect your passport or phone? There are other pocket designs which rely on compression alone to secure your contents. Our tip, buy a few pairs and hand wash in the sink of your hotel every other day. Not just for travel but ideal for amusement parks, festivals, bike riding or any activity where your keys or wallet may accidentally fall out of your pockets. 100% Pick-pocket proof. Completely invisible to thieves. Comfortable styles with pockets placed for comfort. Men’s underwear with two pickpocket proof pockets come in a comfortable boxer brief style.

 

pickpocket proof shorts

 Utility shorts with 8 pockets, designed to be gadget friendly and tech savvy! Loaded with pockets designed to hold phones, wallets, keys, drone accessories, sunglasses, camera equipment and much more. These multi-pocketed shorts can be fully loaded with hiking accessories, golf balls & tees, extra lenses, everyday items and more! The hidden pockets help to conceal your valuables and stop thieves dead in their tracks! Secure your belongings while traveling or commuting to prevent being the target of pickpockets and theft. Eight pockets with two accessible only from the inside protect your gear. The pocket distribution makes sure you’re not weighed down and decreases the bulk-pocket look. A choice of three different colors.

pickpocket proof waist band

A travel or sports waistband. You can wear it under a shirt or with leggings. Double the width of other Fanny Packs and Money Belts, this Waist Pack for men and women is constructed with 2 large pockets in the front and 2 in the back, each pocket 6” high x 8” wide; the fabric stretches vertically to 7-inches high to accommodate medical devices and Insulin Pumps. Made in the USA with the highest quality sport technology fabric and discreet logo:  Made of top grade spandex that stretches and stays in place.pickpocket proof jacket women

 The Penny Coat has all the hidden pocket storage you’ve come to love from SCOTTeVEST. Conceal your valuables in your inner vest pockets to prevent being the target of a pickpocket and theft. Additionally, the inner hidden network of conduits let you connect your devices within the tech friendly vest without tangled messy wires. Charge multiple devices and listen to music all while keeping devices concealed and safe from view. Breeze through airport security and TSA checkpoints by storing all your electronics, documents, gadgets and accessories in this penny coat. Simply unzip the coat, take it off and walk through security without having to unload everything! Going through airport security has never been this easy!

 

 

Tourists love to visit the Eiffel tower at night and hence there are pickpockets at the Eiffel Tower at night too.

Many tourists visit the surrounding area of the Eiffel Tower at night to see it lit up with strobe lights and enjoy the tower’s nighttime ambiance. The benefit of visiting the tower late in the evening is that there are smaller crowds and shorter lines which make the ascent more pleasant. What attracts tourists is that the entire Eiffel tower is cloaked in the warm glow of 336 light projectors and 20,000 sparkling strobe lights – see the below video. From the tower’s observation decks, you can enjoy cool evening breezes as you view floodlit bridges, churches, and other landmarks in the glittering Parisian lightscape. Visiting the Eiffel Tower at night is a beautiful way to appreciate Paris which is known as the city of lights.

Planning Your Nighttime Visit at the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is open until 11:45 p.m or 12:45 a.m., depending on the time of year. Entrance fees vary, depending on whether you’re climbing the steps or taking the elevator. However, make sure to check with their website, as this time and availability changes due to special events, holidays, as well as recent issues with political and terrorism concerns.

Pickpocket activity on the way to the Eiffel Tower

For years, pickpockets, both professional and opportunists, have known that a great spot to target the pockets and handbags of tourists is the subway metro lines 1 and 4, but more importantly, the main stretch of pavement from the Champ-de-Mars-Bir Hakeim metro and RER station to the Eiffel Tower.  This area is where most of the tourists will get on and off the metro to walk to the tower. These specific locations were brought to the public’s attention when an undercover police story broke about the arrest of numerous young girls who were all pickpockets working in these locations.  In December, Paris police arrested 19 people believed to be the ringleaders in a major pickpocketing operation on the Paris public transport network.  These thieves targeted the metros and stops favored by tourists – as well as the walkway to the Eiffel Tower.

Authorities say the gang is responsible for about two-thirds of thefts on the metro and has netted at least €1.3m. The Paris police judiciaire has been working with Spanish and Italian authorities for the past three years to track down the leaders, who recruited 100 young girls from eastern Europe.  Investigators believe the girls were threatened with violence if they failed to reach their daily targets, typically between €300 and €1,000 ($300-$1,060).  This is a sad story, but one that all travelers need to be aware of.  Many people make a living as pickpockets – both young and old, and in order for them to do so, someone – especially unknowing tourists will end up falling victim to these individuals.  Let’s hope that reading these pages on how to identify pickpockets will give you enough insight so your trip to Paris will only be great memories of famous locations, great food, and interesting sights – not the lobby of a Paris police station making a report for having your wallet stolen.

Pickpocket Activity at the Eiffel Tower

Pickpocket Sign at the Eiffel Tower

Pickpocket Sign at the Eiffel Tower

Many tourists who visit the Eiffel Tower at nightfall victim to pickpockets. The strobes come on for about 10 minutes every hour to illuminate the Tower and that attracts the tourists, and the tourists attract the thieves. The pickpockets use a variety of distractions to target tourists such as asking for directions, asking the time, where the subway is in the area, as well as other common pickpocket distractions.

Visitors should also be aware that the Eiffel Tower operating company knows about the pickpocket problem too – and even documents that they are not responsible for theft due to pickpocket activity when visiting the tower.  “The company may not be held liable for theft (from pickpockets), loss or damage of any kind, during a visit”  is a quote from their website. While this is normal for any business which is open to the public, having a quote that specifically makes reference to “pickpockets” is not. This in itself should alert you to take additional precautions.

Pickpockets operate at a variety of locations at the Eiffel Tower.  One of the most obvious indicators will be one of the numerous “beware of pickpocket” signs you will see at the base of the tower, right before you enter the Eiffel Tower elevators, within some of the elevators, as well as around the various observation decks.

Another area pickpockets find their marks is the line for the women’s rooms at the base of the Eiffel Tower.  Sometimes the line is very long, and once you get farther down into the bathroom area, the size of the corridors becomes narrow.  Many tourists have reported thefts at this location, as well as while using the restroom at this location.  This photo shows the pickpocket warning on the way down to the toilets.

Eiffel Tower Stairs and Pickpockets

If you elect not to wait for the Eiffel Tower elevator to take you back down due to the long, crowded lines, many tourists elect to walk down the stairs. Generally, walking down the Eiffel Tower’s stairs is not a great idea. While it may seem like a good idea initially, many pickpockets like to work the stairwell knowing that it is an easy location to target unsuspecting tourists. The stairwell is packed with tourists, going both ways. It is not very wide, so you are forced to bump into people during your journey. Many tourists have reported that they fell victim to pickpockets walking down the Eiffel Tower when they were targeted by pickpockets using the following pickpocket scam.

As you make your descent down the Eiffel Tower stairwell, about a 1/4 of the way down, the pedestrian crowd starts to back-up. You are forced to walk slower and begin to enter a packed crowd walking close together. A small group of people in front of you begin to walk very slow. It can be men or women, but many times it seems that the group is young women. The women stop short, causing you to bump into them.  One of the girls begins to yell at you, while other women pickpockets are behind you and naturally bump into you. Everyone is trying to pass you, but you are held up by this unruly group of girls.

As many people try to pass you, items are removed from your pockets, purse of daypack.  The same type of thieves do the same going up the Eiffel Tower.  Think about this for a second, other than someone who wants one heck of a good workout, who walks up the Eiffel Tower, except someone up to no good.

Gold Ring Scam

Always be on the lookout for the Gold Ring Scam at the Eiffel Tower, or anywhere in Europe for that matter – but it does seem to hit the most in Paris.

Honesty and Lost Rings in Paris

The scam works like this.  You are walking in Paris when a man, woman, or child crosses your path and suddenly stops and bends over, picking up a shiny object on the sidewalk.  Many tourists think that the person is picking up a bottle cap or some other junk.  That’s when the scam begins. Here is a sample conversation that has been repeated to thousands of tourists every year:lost found ring scam

“Excusez-moi, Monsieur. Vous avez laissé votre bague ici.” He showed me a large gold wedding band.
“What? No, it is not my ring, Monsieur.”
“Mais oui, c’est à vous.”
“Mais non. I have no ring.”
“Mais oui, it is your ring. Well, if it is not then give it to your woman. It will make her happy. It is a woman’s ring.”
He hands me the ring. Indeed it is heavy. Apparently gold. “Um, no. It is not mine.”
“I cannot wear it. I am a man,” he said. “Give it to your woman.” He turned and walked away.
“Well, OK. Merci, Monsieur.” I turned and walked away.
He turns again. “Ah, Monsieur. S’il vous plait. I am hungry. I don’t have enough money for a baguette.”
“Um. OK. Take some change.” Hmm. He is honest but only needs money for a baguette. I gave him a few coins from the change still in my hand.
“No, that is not enough. Just a little more. I gave you the ring.”
“Well, OK, here is two euros but nothing more.” And I walk away.

You just fell victim to the “gold ring scam.”

Video of the Gold Ring Scam in Paris

The below video was shot by a family visiting Paris.  Wait for a few seconds and you will see a young man stop in front of the boy, bend over, and pick up the “gold ring” and try the scam. This family was smart and moved on.  But at least you have an idea of how innocent this scam looks when it happens.

Other Paris Tourist Scam

Dancing doll scam.  You will find this scam on the streets of Paris.  It looks like these dolls magically dance, but don’t be fooled and keep a hand on your wallet or bag.

“I am from Bosnia – Do you speak English scam”
This is a classic setup scam used around the world.  Gangs of women roam around beneath the tower. They usually wear bright clothing, long skirts, maybe even a flower in their hair. Their approach is usually to ask if you speak English. If you acknowledge them, they hand you a white card. On it is written how they have escaped from Bosnia (or another country) with their brother, they are homeless and need help, and can you spare any change? So what do you do? Appear hard-hearted and tell them you don’t have anything? Or give them something? Meanwhile, while you are distracted by reading their card, any unprotected belongings are rifled by an accomplice. Given there are large numbers of these women, all carrying white cards, there must be a lot of homeless Bosnian siblings in Paris. Best to wave them away as soon as they approach you and they quickly go off seeking another victim. We were approached at least twice on each visit to the tower.

“Crippled old lady” scam

You may come across an old woman, painfully bent over and using a child’s crutch with a begging bowl out. Watch for long enough, and you will see her make a miraculous recovery, put the crutch under her arm, and stroll casually away with her “earnings”. Best to ignore her and keep walking.

“Praying to my cup” scam
This one was actually more common on the Champs Elysee but if frequently found at the tower base. A woman with a headscarf will be kneeling in silent prayer before a cup on the ground. Watch long enough, and you will see her get up, walk with her cup to a nearby accomplice, casually tip her “earnings” into his bag, then go to another spot to take up her position of prayer once again. Best to ignore her and keep walking.

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Think You’re Savvy Enough to Avoid Pickpockets While Traveling?

pickpockets love tourists, how to avoid pickpockets in Europe

Warning found on a European Wall

Ok, so you’re going abroad, you’re not thinking about how to avoid pickpockets well not just yet. The excitement has been building, your luggage is ready to be packed, you’ve got your flights picked, your passport and travel-sized liquids are ready, and you’ve notified your credit card company you’re going overseas. Quite simply you’re prepared!  In all likelihood, your trip will be great and you’ll return with plenty of pictures and stories to share with family and friends however, do you know how to avoid pickpockets?

This is not an article advocating you should “travel in fear.” The smart thing to do is be practical, be alert, and be prepared for pitfalls including how to stop or avoid pickpockets. Recognize that there are some people who make a living off of tourists like you. This simple realization alone should be enough to encourage healthy suspicion in certain scenarios keeping you a step ahead of the bad guys.

Falling victim to a pickpocket is not a violent crime, but it can be a big inconvenience as you could end up spending countless hours trying to stop identity thieves, as well as replacing passports and credit cards. Therefore avoiding pickpockets in the first place is the smartest move you can make.

How to Stop Pickpockets

One of the first things you should do is watch how pickpockets operate. Pickpockets are typically fast, discreet, and clever. They often are masters of their trade. To reduce your chances of falling victim to a pickpocket, you have to avoid being an easy target – which is what most pickpockets look for to begin with. Being aware of strangers in crowds, and most importantly, looking like a difficult target so the thief passes on you for another victim.

What Does a Pickpocket or Thief Look Like?

Don’t always assume that a pickpocket looks like a transient or bum.  Many of the most skilled and sneakiest pickpockets dress very well and may look like businessmen and may carry something official-looking in their hand.  Many of these thieves will be women, some with children, just so they can better blend into the crowd.  Some very smart pickpockets will pose as tourists with fanny packs, cameras, and even guidebooks. The best pickpocket is the best actor or actress.

Another thing to give additional thought to is the old adage – “don’t judge by appearances.”  Some pickpockets work in teams where one of them dresses up in some type of uniform – done as an obvious measure to gain trust. In some Asian countries, pickpockets may dress up in a uniform that to you looks like that of a police officer – however, it is just one of a security officer – but the average tourist doesn’t know the difference.  The supposed “officer” becomes real friendly with tourists while his associate makes the “lift” of your wallet from your back pocket or wallet from your purse.  Be mindful of these confrontations.  Also, be wary of over-friendly children and seniors because they generate much more trust – but can be just guilty of being a thief, scam artist, or pickpocket.

how to avoid child pickpockets

Child pickpocket followed a woman wearing a bag on her back hip

How to Avoid a Pickpocket When Traveling

1. Be a Difficult Target – Make it Hard for Them to Get to You, Walk with Purpose, and Keep Moving

When traveling, it’s common to slow down and take in all the sights.  Tourists want to linger in places and take their time. While enjoyable, meandering makes you stand out to pickpockets.  Pickpockets know the look of obvious tourists – confused looks, hesitant steps, and visible maps are the perfect indicators of a distracted person and therefore a good target. Take the time before you leave a safe area (a restaurant, your hotel, the train platform) to check your surroundings and directions before heading out. Perhaps write a few key indications (direction and street names) on a post-it for quick reference.

If you do need to stop and figure out where you are – stop somewhere with a wall at your back in order to consult a map or stare at a landmark.  If that’s not available, move to a wide-open space where anyone approaching can be seen. Consider ducking into a store for directions or to consult your map.  Lastly, walk with purpose. Even if you don’t have a destination in mind, act like you know where you’re going – this makes you a less desirable target. Be especially careful to walk purposefully when in a popular tourist location.

pickpocket sign how to avoid pickpockets in Europe

Warning on London Newspaper Stand

2. Be Unpredictable

If you suspect you are being followed/targeted by a pickpocket, change directions, stop and go in a different direction. Enter into the nearest shop for a few minutes to collect yourself and perhaps to make them lose interest. Pickpockets love train stations, bus stations, and subways because people entering and exiting them are very concentrated on getting to their next destination, and their paths are obvious.

3. Be Cautious When Talking to Strangers

Chances are, you look like a tourist more than you would like to, and pickpockets have learned how to recognize a potential mark. Therefore, it is very unlikely someone will need to stop you and ask for directions or assistance in English if you are in a foreign country. In all actuality, they probably know you are a tourist already and are seeking to confirm this and perhaps create some conversation to relax/distract you for a partner.

4. Avoid Shaking Hands with a Stranger

Locals are often hospitable to travelers – sometimes overly so. If a stranger is quick to greet and anxious to get near you, try to keep a hand on your belongings. A theft often starts with a handshake that lasts too long, which allows the thief closer access to you.

5. When Traveling in Groups, Designate Lookouts to Avoid Pickpockets

When you are traveling alone, you may feel vulnerable because you are solo, but in groups, pickpockets can take advantage of the confusion to pick on your most distracted members. Consider asking a member of your group to act as the lookout and concentrate on your surroundings and to keep an extra eye out. Keep the weaker members of your group in the middle when walking somewhere and those more attentive in the back.

6. Never Use Your Back Pocket!

Please don’t put your wallet in your back pocket, it’s a target on your butt and you won’t feel the wallet being removed.  An alternative is a slim wallet designed to drop down into your front pocket curve, It’ll keep currency, credit cards, and ID safe from pickpockets.

7. Use Anti-theft Travel Bags Secure Valuables and Keep Pickpockets Away 

If you carry a purse, strongly consider a purse or bag designed with integrated anti-theft features, Our favorite style is an anti-theft cross-body style which gives you the plus of hand-free convenience.

8. Be Wary of Large Crowds and Stay Away from Commotion

When walking through a crowd of people there will be lots of bumping and physical contact, you might come out the other side lighter than you went in.  If you stop to watch a street performer be aware of your personal items because a large group of distracted people is like a buffet for pickpockets. If your wallet is in your front pocket then put your hand in there for additional security.

9. Keep Your Flag at Home

Many individuals, particularly those from the US, display the flag on their backpacks, luggage, and even on their t-shirts. This tells them that you are visiting the city as a tourist. Do not get singled out in any way. Avoid pickpockets by not signaling to them that you could be a potential victim.

10. Never Get Familiar with Local Money in Public

Since you will visit countries overseas, you must get familiar with local money. But do this in private, before arriving in your new country –  or in the safety of your room. It is not a good idea to advertise the money you are carrying in a public place. Also, keep the money and also your card inside a front pocket, and not in a purse or the back pocket. This will make the job of the pickpocket harder.

11. Divide Your Money and Credit Cards
 don’t go through your wallet counting your money in public. I can’t count the number of times I have been walking down a busy street and seen someone with a wad of cash, putting it in their wallet, fiddling with credit cards then putting the wallet in their back pocket; doing all this with their head down and still walking (not paying any attention to their surroundings).  A street thief could easily grab their wallet and run.  If you must count your money do it before you leave the hotel room, or at least somewhere private.

12. Don’t Go Out With Your Entire Budget

When visiting tourist destinations such as museums, monuments, and other places in the city, you are going to need money for entrance fees.  The majority of the time you will have access to automatic tellers all over the city. There is no need to have all of your money with you. Take out what you need, per day and keep the cash you don’t need during that day in a safe in your hotel room. Think ahead, and by planning ahead you can also avoid long lines and detours to ATMs etc. Better yet,use apps or websites on your phone to purchase tickets and avoid cash altogether.

13. All or Nothing

When going out you don’t have to take everything, do you? Think, only take what you need. This means emptying your wallet a little: leaving some money, ID, credit cards or your passport locked in the hotel room safe so if you do get pickpocketed you don’t lose everything! If you don’t like doing this then split up your valuables between a wallet you keep in your front pocket or anti-theft travel purse and a hidden body pouch like a waist wallet or neck wallet. Those are much more difficult to steal from.

tourists, man is a victim of a pickpocket

 

Protecting Your Belongings – Make it Difficult to get to Your Valuables

When carrying a purse or bag, wear the flap against your body and keep a hand on it

If you are a woman, only travel with purses that close with a single, central zipper (single entry point) or travel security purse that has built-in security features that keep out the hands of pickpockets.  Travel purses or handbags like these are great.  If you carry a regular, not security travel purse make sure it is carried with the zipper facing front and directly under your arm where an eye can be kept on it. Mini backpacks or purses that are open on top? Targets. If you have a flap on your purse or messenger bag, make sure it’s close against your body and not facing outwards.  If you do decide to carry a daypack, consider a security daypack such as one of these which have built-in security zippers so pickpocket can’t get into the rear zippered compartments when you wear it in a crowd.

When eating or sitting, NEVER put your purse/bag on the ground or hang it on the chair behind you.

Countless bags are stolen from women when dining. Put it on your lap or on the table if it’s a small purse. If you’ve got longer straps or a single shoulder strap, hang the purse off your knee in front of you or put the strap under one of the chair legs. Consider one of the anti-theft purses with anti-snatching purse straps listed above.

Don’t keep important things in ANY outside pockets in your suitcase, jacket, or purse.

If you have to give pickpockets access to something (you have too much luggage or several bags) make sure it’s not worth taking. Keep underwear in outside luggage pockets and not important documents. Use inside pockets of jackets and purses that have a zipper and/or button to hold important documents, and take advantage of clothing layers to keep your documents buried as much as possible.

How to Avoid Pickpockets When Traveling

Be Careful of Purse and Pocket Cutters

Some pickpockets use a unique way of stealing wallets from the pockets of men, or from within purses. They are known as “purse cutters” or “pocket cutters” who use a thin razor blade to cut the pockets of pants or outside material of purses.  While this is a very limited subset of skilled pickpockets, they do exist around the world.  Your solution is to carry your wallet in your front pocket or use a travel bag constructed with hidden anti-slash material.

Use a Money Belt to Stop Pickpockets

This is perhaps the single most important thing you can do to lower the impact of a pickpocket. Use a money belt to keep your passport, extra credit cards and cash safe and out of sight. Keep that day’s cash and a credit card in your day purse/wallet for easy access. If you must get into your money belt, do it in a safe area like a bathroom stall or changing room. Getting into your money belt to make regular purchases is not an effective use of it and draws attention to where you store your money.

If you prefer to carry a money belt and/or passport holder, make sure you don’t advertise where it is. Many times I’ve seen tourists walking around with a very visible passport holder bouncing freely under their t-shirt, or with the neck cord poking out and trailing down their back. They might as well wear a bull’s-eye! I prefer to use a neck passport holder like this one and actually wear it around my waist, tucked into my pants (also a good alternative for summer when wearing light tops). It was comfortable and not as noticeable, or you can get the traditional money belt version or an actual belt to conceal currency. Some travelers prefer to hide things in their socks. I don’t recommend that as a strategy to stop pickpockets.

Bring the Bare Essentials When You Can

If you have a good base location such as a hotel or a friend’s house, why not lighten up what you’re carrying with you when going shopping, walking in crowded markets or areas? Some reputable hotels also offer safe services for valuables.

Don’t Place Your Wallet in Your Back Pocket

Pickpockets call the back pocket of a man’s pants the “sucker pocket” for a reason – it is the easiest to get into and remove a wallet.  When possible use your front pocket to hold your wallet, as possibly consider carrying a special wallet designed with a material that is hard to remove without your knowledge. If you have your heart set on keeping your wallet in your back pocket, you should understand how thieves remove wallets from them, then take a few countermeasures.

The most common way for this to occur is by a pickpocket who places two fingers into the top of your back pocket and carefully lifting the lining of the pocket to bring your wallet to the thief’s hand; this is commonly referred to as “reefing.”  Reefing keeps contact to a minimum and makes a much quicker retreat of the pickpocket possible.  To make this type of theft more difficult for a pickpocket you can do two things (other than not carrying in the back pocket to begin with). First, place a thick rubber band around your wallet. The rubber band is rough and will create friction with your pocket lining so you will hopefully feel it being pulled out and can stop the pickpocket from stealing it. Second, place a semi-rigid card (a name card or a tag does nicely) in the pocket and covering your wallet to obstruct the lift. Again, do this to give you more time to notice the pick before the thief ends up with your wallet.

Using Public Transportation – Stay Balanced and Awarecrowd getting on a bus, pickpocket stealing wallet

Pickpockets are counting on your being unbalanced, distracted and crowded on public transportation. If you can, read about certain buses or public transportation that are most used by tourists – these are usually pickpocket buffets (the 64 bus from Termini to St. Peter’s in Rome is notorious for this).

When at Train or Subway Stations

Some thieves hang out at train-ticket machines, eager to assist you in buying tickets with a pile of your quickly disappearing foreign cash.   When you are at the train station and someone who looks like an “official railroad attendant” offers you some help finding your seat – politely say “no thanks.”  This is a common scam at many European train stations (especially in Rome).  These “official-looking railroad attendants” will surely take you to your seat, but once you are there they will demand a tip.  These are not railroad employees, just local scammers taking advantage of unsuspecting tourists.

Stand Defensive and Prepared

Swing any backpacks around to the front of your body and put your arms through the straps to keep your hands free. Not only will this help you keep an eye on it, it will make you more appreciated by regular riders as backpacks usually swing into people and take up more room. I used to tie the cords hanging off my backpack zippers together so it was harder to open. If rolling a piece of luggage, place it in front of you between you and your handhold, as close to a wall as possible.

Keep the Right Hands Occupied, and the Right Hands-Free

Keep a hand on your purse and close to your body and the other hand to stabilize your body while the public transportation is in motion. Don’t hold on with the same arm that should be protecting your bag! To further stabilize yourself, if you can’t get a seat, make sure to center your body in front of the pole, seat or other handhold so you won’t be thrown off-balance. Stand with your knees slightly bent to react with turns and bumps. Angle one foot in the direction of the braking action (forward for example).

Preparing Yourself Before a Trip

Before leaving, photocopy important documents and leave a copy with a relative/friend who can send them to you if necessary. Keep a list of contact numbers available in your suitcase for reporting stolen credit cards along with a copy of your passport and other important documents. Keep your email login credentials handy too.

Keep copies of your key documents on your phone, and make sure your phone is password protected.

I also keep these support numbers in an email draft sent to myself so that I can access them from any computer (please note: I am not recommending you store credit card numbers in an email, just the customer support numbers). This step helps if your phone is lost or stolen.

Copies of Travel Documents You Should have Access to

  • Credit card and bank contact numbers
  • Passports
  • Travel reservation numbers
  • Identification cards
  • Prescriptions

Know the Pickpockets and Scam Artists’ “Tricks of the Trade”

For years, pickpockets have honed their skills on countless victims so the thieves and pickpockets don’t need to change their methods much; they just practice them until they’ve got it perfect.  If a pickpocket is successfully in stealing your wallet, it will be because their method was new to you, but not to them. Here are a few of the distractions that pickpockets use to distract travelers and steal their property (refer to our other web pages for a more extensive list of these scams):

The Coin Con

Someone drops a bunch of coins on the floor of an airline terminal. Nice person that you are, you stoop down to help pick them up. Then an accomplice waltzes by, taking your laptop or luggage. Sexy distractions. A skirt is lifted, and so is the wallet of a man distracted by the sight. He should have kept that wallet in a hidden pouch instead of his back pocket or jacket pocket.

“Can I Read Your Palm and Tell You Your Fortune?

In Spain, scruffy women offer you sprigs of rosemary (a token of friendship), and then grab your hand, read your fortune, and demand payment. Don’t make eye contact, don’t accept a sprig, and say firmly but politely, “No, gracias.”

“Hellppp!”

You may think a swimmer is drowning, so — Samaritan that you are — you dash into the water. While you’re paddling out to the “victim,” an accomplice swipes the items you’ve left on the beach.

Splattttt!

Some white matter lands on your coat, and you assume a nasty pigeon has flown by. But, oh no, it’s a pickpocket who has distracted you with ice cream, toothpaste, or cigarette ashes. An accomplice wants to help you clean up and advises you to remove your coat. You know the rest.

“Hey, That Man Just Hit That Woman”

Know that pickpockets are very skilled in the art of theft and will create a variety of distractions to get travelers to “not pay attention to someone bumping into them” or “picking up a purse or travel bag” while they are watching what looks like some type of fight, scuffle, or shouting match.  Know that when these acts occur around you, it may be a “set up” for other thieves who are working the crowd and looking for you to be distracted while they rip you off.

“Set Up Scams”

Set-up scams are time-tested and popular. On the busy streets of Barcelona, Berlin, and Florence, you’ll find the shell game, or its variation, the pea-and-carrot game. Players pay to guess which of the moving shells hides the ball. It looks easy, but the winners are all ringers, and you can be sure that you’ll lose if you play.

“Can You Tell Me Where I Can Find an ATM Machine?”

Whenever cash is involved, it pays to be alert. If someone offers to help you use a cash machine, politely refuse (the person wants your PIN code). If a cash machine eats your ATM card, check for a thin plastic insert with a little flap hanging out — crooks use tweezers to extract your card. Cashiers, and even bank tellers, thrive on the “slow count,” dealing out change with odd pauses in hopes that rushed tourists will gather up the money early and say “Grazie.” Also, be careful when paying with large bills in restaurants and stores, and always inspect your change for wrong currancy— in Italy, the old 500-lira coins (worth nothing) look like 2-euro coins (worth nearly $3).

We’re the “Tourist Police” and We’re Here to Help

Just because someone looks official doesn’t mean they are. In Italy, “Tourist Police” may stop you on the street, flash their bogus badges, and ask to check your wallet for counterfeit bills or “drug money.” You won’t even notice some bills are missing until after they leave.

Fake “Hotel Inspectors”

Never open your door to “hotel inspectors.”  These scammers will knock on your door, look official, and may even show some type of bogus ID to make them look the part.  One and tell you that they are “Hotel Inspectors.”  One of the thieves waits outside while the other comes in to take a look around. While you’re distracted, the first thief slips in and snags valuables off your dresser.

You Can’t Come to This City Without Seeing a Play or Concert

In Vienna, official-looking women decked out in long velvet capes roam famous sights, claiming to work for the opera house and offering to sell you tickets. The tickets are fakes, and the only seats you’ll be buying are the ones on the bus back to your hotel.

A Final Note on How to Avoid Pickpockets

The above pickpocket prevention information is the most practical and logical way you can easily integrate pickpocket prevention techniques into your trip without ruining your trip. Keep in mind that trips are to be enjoyed – but just remember that a little preparation goes a long way. You never fully appreciate how important your wallet or purse contents are until they’re gone. And being just a little cautious will result in a better experience for you and those around you. Use your instincts and a little common sense to avoid pickpockets and being a victim, so you can enjoy the sights and beauty of your host country!

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