Avoid Being Pick Pocketed on Vacation

Last year in Lisbon I came way-too close. A well-dressed, sixty-something year old man was walking behind me, when he oh-so-gently reached into my handbag. Maybe it was the uneven cobblestones that made my footing a little wobbly, but his hand accidentally brushed the inside of my arm. I felt it and I knew immediately. Then I did exactly what I’d always told my daughters to do. I spun around, fists up, and started screaming my fool head off! He ran. Well, technically, he ran after getting up off the ground, where Bruce’s two-handed, curse-ladened shove had landed him. I was lucky. The following tips aren’t a guarantee you won’t be a victim, but they definitely can help you avoid being pick pocketed on vacation.

Pay Attention

I’ll admit it, I was way too busy taking in the sights in the Alfama District and tasting the pastel de nata to be on the lookout for thieves. And I’m not suggesting that you become so paranoid that you miss the whole point of being on vacation. What I’m suggesting is that you just be smart. To avoid being pick pocketed on vacation the best thing you can do is pay attention to your surroundings.Who’s standing too close? Or bumping into people? And generally taking in the lay-of-the-land.

Leave Valuables at Home

My charm bracelet is loaded with charms that I have found while on vacation. But I never bring this bracelet with me when I’m traveling. It’s too much of a temptation for a would-be pickpocket. Even though we know you want to look fabulous on vacation, skip the super expensive stuff. I mean things like high-end handbags, valuable jewelry and excess cash. If you MUST bring something of high value, make sure it is well-insured. Or you can leave it in the hotel safe to avoid being pick pocketed on vacation.

To Avoid Being Pick Pocketed on Vacation Carry a Safe Bag

My friend Holly and I are on the all-out search for the best handbag to take on vacation. We have tried endless bags and as of yet we have no clear winner. It needs to be safe (a cross-body with strong, unbreakable straps and secure closures like this one) but it also needs to be fashionable. I mean, c’mon, I’m not showing up in London or Rome looking like some frumpy American. When you pick your bag (or in some cases bags) for vacay I urge you to think safety over all else, even if that means they are a bit boring. It’s one sure way to avoid being pick pocketed on vacation.

Insider Tip: For deals on safe bags for vacation, check out the stock at your local thrift or consignment shop, like Consignments Ltd. They usually have lots of bags that can fit the bill and are available at deep discounts.

Don’t Leave Your Things Unattended

We took Bruce’s Mom on the subway in Montreal recently. We were waiting for the train when she put her handbag on the bench and went over to say something to Bruce. In her defense, it was her first time on a subway. She had no idea how unsafe this was. I showed her by scooping her bag and walking down the platform. Please remember: it’s NEVER a good idea to leave any of your valuables (shopping bags, luggage, briefcase, etc.) unattended.

Understand The Pick Pocket Profile to Avoid Being Pick Pocketed on Vacation

News Flash: Pickpockets are generally NOT the sketchy looking man in the dark hat lurking in the corner waiting to pounce. My guy in Lisbon was wearing a navy blazer and an ascot, for goodness sake! Pickpockets come in very surprising sizes and shapes. Sometimes they are kids. In Europe, a lot of them are women. And they are really good at looking like everyday citizens and more often tourists. They often work in packs. (Mr. Ascot Guy had two young runners he was passing his grabs to). So the message here is: there is no pickpocket profile. They are everywhere. So keep your bag/wallet close and keep space between you and the next guy (or gal, as the case may be).

For more travel inspired blogs, check out my previous article: Be Good To The Environment When You Travel and Travel Items To Avoid Buying Second-Hand.

Stay safe out there, my friends. Have a lovely Sunday, Marianne

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