Swiper, No Swiping! Tips to Deter Pickpockets

Pickpockets love travelers.

Travelers are prime targets because they are presumably unfamiliar with their surroundings, distracted by the new sites and carrying valuable items.

Do not worry, however. Two can play at this game. Pickpockets ain’t got nothin’ against these tips.

Try not to look like a traveling student group.

Traveling in a group makes it pretty obvious you’re not from around the area. Consider steering clear from group tees and lanyards that identify you as such. Try to blend in as much as possible.

Invest in money belts.

While moneybelts sound neither flattering nor comfortable, they certainly are practical. Moneybelts are a great way for you and your students to hide all of your cash and travel documents where thieves cannot see them.

Avoid walking through huge crowds of people.

Not always possible while traveling, but an important consideration. Try to commute to attractions and visits sites at low-traffic hours or consider alternative (safe) routes.

Don’t carry open bags.

If you and your students have valuables in a bag, the bag better have zippers or an obscene number of knots and ties.

Don’t carry money all in one location.

Ideally, you and your students shouldn’t carry a lot of money with you. If you must, however, it’s smart to separate your cash into a few separate locations—a few different pockets, maybe some in a wallet and maybe some in a shoe.

Don’t flash your cash.

While you’re paying for things, try not to show the amount of money you have with you.

Written by Cassie Westrate, staff writer for Teach & Travel.