Tips for Parents to Avoid Pickpockets
But it is a wild, laughter-filled, and little bit of chaos kind of adventure that fills you with memories. This item can really dampen your journey: pickpockets. Of course, sneaky thieves from a distracted tourist. Not to mention, when you have a front and back baby carrier, stroller, snacks bags, and wipes in one hand and your kids other hand in yours, you might as well wear a flashing sign with an arrow over your head that says: EASY TARGET!
Our first family vacation to Europe We might as well have been billboards for pickpockets, with our cameras dangling from necks, unfolding maps and the general lost tourist appearance. Soon enough, we learned that we needed a much better approach. This is because absolutely nothing can ruin a day as quickly as having your wallet or phone stolen by a stealth-like thief. Ok, but here are some pickpocket prevention
Tips for traveling parents: battle-tested wisdom mixed with humor to help keep this heavy message fun.
Be Prepared
Preparation is key. Make sure you have it. It should load up before you leave the house to begin their memory space. Packing for a mini-marathon without forgetting your sneakers!
Create a list of essentials that you can easily access. I keep in all the emotions because… reaching back to wrangle a toddler into a car seat before you even have your keys out will make you forget about anything in no time.
The funniest part was forgetting my child’s favorite stuffed animal at home once. Hi, Apocalypse-Level Meltdown in the Airport.
If you have valuables, leave them at your hotel room.
Less is more. Keep non-essential items securely stored in your hotel room safe. Step up your travel day with a Marie Kondo twist. If it doesn’t bring you joy — or if it isn’t essential for survival — then leave it behind. Let me tell you, you will feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders (or, in this case, out of your ears), and your stress levels will thank you.
Blond moment: I forgot if it locked or not when I put my wedding ring in the safe, so hubby had to ask the hotel manager to let us check! My wife, as it turns out, had this all sorted.
Keep Your Bag, Gadgets and Other Valuables Safe When You Are Out
Hands-free and secure. Carry a crossbody bag or money belt (you’ll be better off with your hands free anyway, so you can hold little hands and give out snacks). Your gadgets, like your phone and camera, should be clipped to you or zipped safely away. Nothing to hang in front of sticky fingers
Haha: I was wearing my phone on a lanyard around my neck, and little one thought it was a teething souvenir. It was not a good idea but saved me from phone thieves!
Be on alert in the crowds and steer clear of commotions
Eyes peeled, folks. A pickup truck will have a field day in crowded places. Look out for unexpected commotions or distractions; those are most likely set up to draw your attention away. Shut it around your kids, and Look out for yo shit. Go with what feels out of order and follow your instincts.
Funny story: Once I got so sidetracked by a street performance that I nearly started joining in. I was all too happy to stay there… my child actually had to pull on my hand and tell me we have places to go!
Create a "Don't break this" System
Practice makes perfect. I Am Not Your Maid Teach your kids (and remind yourself) to keep track of their own shit. Play — Make it a backward scavenger hunt. Each time that you see that you have all your stuff, you get a point. Whoever has the most points at the end of each day earns an additional reward in NYC!
Favorite moment: My child was obsessed with this game and once leaned over to check a stranger’s pockets, as well. Oops!
Leave a Trace for Well-meaning Finders
Honesty helps. Put a little note with your phone number on anything valuable. Well, this deters a certain kind of would-be thief… as well as making it easier for good Samaritans to return your stuff. You never know — there are a whole lot of good people left!
My kid gets our hotel room number and places it on his favorite truck. We lost it at breakfast but found it thanks to the kind hotel guest!!
Use a Bluetooth Tracker
Tech to the rescue! Put a Bluetooth tracker on things you can’t live without. If you’re like me, you’ve probably gone through at least a million “Where are my keys?” moments. These handy devices can help you track your stuff from your phone.
Bonus tip: You can even use them to track your phone!
LOL Moment: I once put a tracker on my kid’s favorite toy. He found it amusing to hide the toy, making the tracker go off constantly. Parenting win?
Do Not Show Off Your Stuff
Fly low. Tone down on the bling so no one knows how much money you have; refrain from showing off expensive gadgets in public. In other words, it’s like you’re going James Bond — chic and planned all the way, never revealing how hard you tried. If you are not making it obvious that you have something worth stealing, then your chances of being targeted drop drastically.
WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST THING THAT’S EVER HAPPENED TO YOU WHILE TRAVELING:
I’ve recently been wearing another very large piece of jewelry in the form of a necklace, and while traveling with my kid, she couldn’t stop pulling it.
Lesson one: Do not wear the bling.
Buy Pick-Pocket Proof Supplies
Smart gear. Buy antitheft bags and gear. Locking zippersSlash-proof straps on anti-theft bags Invisible pockets in your clothes can keep valuables out of sight. Unsafe?—probably overkill, but better to be than safe, sorry.
When my husband had a jacket with about a dozen hidden pockets and he couldn’t find his wallet because… it was in one of those 12 pockets. It took us a solid 15 minutes to track down the auction.
Bolster Your Vigilance in Group Settings
Stay sharp. Exercise extra caution when in crowded spaces.
Just be sure to keep an eye on your bag, and do not get so absorbed in the sight. created Easier said than done, I know you are herding kids and trying to enjoy the moment. And still, a little diligence helps more.
It was a bit funny though, when I realised my kid had wandered back to watch some street performers while I was taking photos. He had the time of his life, but I almost died from a heart attack.
Portion Your Money
Spread the wealth. Spread your cash out Divide it and store in various pockets and wallets. That way, if you do end up the unfortunate victim of a pickpocket, you will only loose so much. Well, this is a great way to put those secret pockets in all of your travel gear to good use.
Humorous: My husband has actually been known to stash cash in his shoes. He left it and found it weeks later, sweaty and disgusting. But hey, at least they did not have it stolen!
Don't put your stuff in the back pocket
Front pockets only. I realize that this one may sound cliché, but for a reason! You really should not be using back pockets; they are very easy to pickpocket. If you have asked about where to hide your wallet or phone, put it in the front of your pants or a difficult-to-access bag. Keep more innocent things in your back pockets, such as a map or the wrapper of a snack.
Humorous moment: Before having kids, I would carry my wallet in my back pocket until one of the kids said to me how absurd it looked. You mean,
like this: “Mom… but that is where the candy goes!” Wise words from a toddler.
Pack Light: Fewer Valuables Better Served
The only thing worse than wearing a backpack with your precious gear when you are on the go with kids is toting around a treasure chest of treasures. Minimize what you bring. Keep it Simple—Just take your ID, a little bit of money, and a credit card or two. This way, not only do you have a lighter bag, you have less chance of losing something very important. One time, I tried to carry everything I would ever need in one trip, and my overstuffed bag and a pickpocket had a less-than-fortuitous rendezvous. Make things simpler and you will be less stressed.
Forget the Backpacks: Keep it up-front and personal
We know what you are thinking—backpacks are an easy pick, especially when it comes to toting snacks and toys for the little ones! But they are also favorites among pickpockets. Choose a sling bag or one to wear on the front. Someone is really going to have to work hard to sneak into a bag that is in front of you. And that cross-body bag makes accessing your items a lot easier than having to do some kind of backpack shimmy.
Anchor your Bag: That Invisible Leash
You know you have this balloon, and you want to protect that balloon from flying off. It is the way to think about an anchor bag. Clip bags to the body or a stationary object. This trick will save you from theft in a crowded place where professional pickpockets work. Saw a dad once in a busy market who had his bag tied to his stroller with a strap like this—not very pretty but a pretty great way to keep your stuff from disappearing on you!
PREP WORK — MAKE SURE YOU TAKE PRECAUTIONS BEFORE YOU LEAVE
After all, you should make sure your security precautions are top-notch before getting out there. Store your money, IDs, and credit cards safely. Make a list — because honestly, my memory is shit, especially when I have to juggle both a toddler and the diaper bag. Setting a pre-departure routine that makes you stop and realize you have forgotten to lock up your valuables helps.
Retention Every Retention metric in Product SUSTAINABILITY Always Look Back: The Surveillance Check How to Value Your Startup?
Be mindful of looking back sometimes when you are traveling, particularly in high-traffic areas. It is like making a small security check to see if anyone is following you or if there is too much attention in your bag I know it sounds a little paranoid, but it has helped me to be more aware and catch any concerning behavior before it becomes an issue.
The Tech Shield — RFID Blocking Wallet
RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification)—while super convenient when in the shop—is also a target for pickpockets who want to steal your credit card info without having to even touch your wallet. Consider getting an RFID-blocking wallet so no one can access your cards electronically. Now it is like having a bulletproof vest for your credit cards. The way I see it, it is like the superhero cape of my wallet protecting my funds from dastardly thieves.
The Unseen Defense: Wearing Pickpocket Proof Clothing
As its name suggests, pickpocket-proof clothing features hidden compartments and secure zippers to hold your valuables safely. Either buy a special jacket or pants with those pockets to carry your ID. So it might not be the most fashion-friendly look, but at least your stuff will be safe. Consider it your magic trick to fend off sticky fingers—unobtrusive but devastating.
The Hidden Hero: Money Belt/ Neck Stash
Money belts or neck stashes are travel classics for good reason: They work. Put one under your clothes or around your neck to keep money, ID, and important things. Sure, this may feel a little old-fashioned, but when it comes to pickpockets, sometimes the traditional approach is your best line of defense.
The Clever Cache: Place A Reserve Of Cash In The Last Place Anyone Would Ever Look
Saving a little extra in some unexpected places can be a lifesaver. In a secret compartment, in a sock, or even in an empty lip balm container. You are expected to have your bullet money in a not-so-pick pocketable place I like the idea of having hidden savings that can buy you things, as in yes, I too have got my own little secret stash sometimes even I forget and then whew when needed!
Hotspots—the Places to Double Down on Watching
There are regions in the world that have a great deal of pickpockets, such as crowded markets, popular tourist sites, and public transportation. This is of special concern in such areas. You know, it is like knowing on the battlefield what your weak points are, and by understanding them, you will not fall there. In a big crowd, be more wary and watch your stuff closely.
Appearance Isn't Everything: A Game of Disguises
Generalizing, all things are never black and white (as cliché as it sounds).
Schemas: NS Not every suspicious-looking guy is a thief; not every trustworthy, out-headed chap will be there for you Potential Pickpockets — Never judge a pickpocket by its cover You can be alone in the crowd so keep your guards up and do not compare with each other. This is like a high stakes game of hide and seek.
The Sneaky Tricks of Common Pickpocket Scams
Trick Trickery Trickery is one of the favored methods pickpockets use to separate you from the contents of your wallet. Classic scams involved someone pretending to ask you for directions, a commotion meant to distract you, or even fake begging. You can warn your children about these scams and educate them on how they work. How that plays out is a story for another time but sure, learn tricks of the trade to keep one step ahead.
Fit in with the Locals: The Perfect Camouflage
The locals know who lives in their city, and pickups do not blend in! If you are wearing too fancy, i.e., short clothes, and paying a lot of jewelry on your like, it is screaming tourist! The idea is that if you do not stick out like a sore thumb, you are less likely to draw the attention of unwanted observers. Roughly translated, this means it’s ninja-like in how it operates—stealthy, unassuming, and highly effective.
Beat the Pickpocket: 8 Ways to Stay Safe
If travel is a kind of real-life video game, then it comes with quests and obstacles in full force. One of those challenges is to outwit pickpockets—nefarious bandits who appear to have a sixth sense for sniffing out tourists. However, with some strategy, you will be able to outpace them. Ten with a Touch of Humor on the Best Pickpocketer we Know and some practical advice to set you straight.
1. The Drive-By: The Slick Snatch
What It Is: The drive-by is one of the oldest tricks in the book—just a thief walking by your table, where they casually brush past you and steal things right off your person. It is fast, subtle, and usually occurs in a crowd where it can merge back into the environment easily.
How to Prevent It: Outsmart the drive-by—never keep your bag or wallet far from you. I have realized that using a cross-body bag and wearing it in front of me makes ALL the difference. In addition to this, keep your eyes open and try to scan the area for people who are walking too near or acting unusual. A crowd is fruitful for a pickpocket who fakes being one of the whole, pays attention, and is prepared to name stuff out when it feels off.
2. The “Here, Let Me Help”: The Friendly Distraction
What It Is: The scam involves human pickpockets posing as guides or offering help, all while nimbly lifting your wallet/phone. A wolf in Sheepskins—like the one who comes across, wants to stay unobjectionable and turns out to be a thief.
Prevention Tips: rely on your instincts and do not let yourself be fooled by too friendly strangers, especially if you are in a super-touristic area. If a stranger offers help as you come off the slide, keep your hands on your purse and don’t bring out any valuables as they talk to you. I found this out the difficult way when a geographical “helper” attempted to help me find my method from a map—while my wallet wanted to take a trip by itself!
3. The Sandwich: The Double Team
What It Is: This involves two or more pickpockets working together. Whereas one of them comes and watches your attention and the other hand is in your bag or pocket. Then he performed with me and somehow did some well-choreographed dance in the hope of confusing you.
How to Prevent: Look for groups getting too close, especially during rush hours. If you see someone who looks sketchy, pay a bit of attention and be mindful when it comes to leaving your things unattended. In a bustling market, I literally had sandwich artists corner me against the hedge once. The key was to keep Clam and my bag in front and block the frenzy out.
4. The Bottleneck: A Clogged Situation
What It Is: This bottleneck happens in such tight spaces as subway stations or busy streets where pickpockets just get you and start going through your belongings. This is the classic “target stuck in traffic” scenario.
How to Avoid It: Do not stand in groups, particularly long public assembly lines. Avoid getting inadvertently caught up in a bottleneck, and stay vigilant with your things. For example, I prefer to use a money belt or neck pouch —anything close to my body so no one can be able to take it from me. It would be as if I had a secret vault that could not even be opened by pickpockets.
5. The Actor The Chameleon
What It Is: Usually, pickpockets use their dramatic flair to blend in and take advantage of people from behind a mask or disguise. They might masquerade as street performers, beggars, or even tourists.
Prevent It: Beware of street performers who step too close to you or are extra pushy with their performance. Hold onto your belongings more securely, and do not be so generous with them. I almost fell for a musician who was less interested in his guitar and more about my camera. Always be suspicious if someone massively feeling out of place just does NOT seem right.
6. The Young Assassin: The Baby Bandit
What It Is: Children, as pickpocketers, are fast and nimble. They will usually pretend they are just playing around, but in adult predators, this is them scoping out a person to victimize.
Prevention: Watch your environment; child-filled zones are high-alert areas. If you come across a group of kids that are being invasive around you, go and hold your things together and prepare yourself. I had only a few tangles with “junior thieves,” but, believe me, they are small and devious. But they should be treated no differently than you would any other potential threat.
7. The “Bump and Lift”: The Old Fashioned Tap
What It Is: The bump and lift is a type of pickpocket scam usually carried out by 2 people: one acts as the decoy and bumps into you (often accidentally), while their partner in crime sneaks his hand into your pocket or opens up your bag. Authorities said it is all part of a move that almost played out like choreography.
Ways to Avoid It: Be firm and stay close to your belongings. In the middle of a crowd, you can stand where people are not likely to bump into you. I have realized that being conscious of others and being in a defensive mode (keeping my bag close, and as someone may approach me, I may seem alert) will discourage this trick. It is kind of like a human shield approach to your assets.
8. The Slash, Grab and Rush + The Cut-and-Run
What It Is: A pickpocket with a knife or other sharp object cuts the straps of your bag, takes it, and runs. A little crude, but sadly effective.
How to Prevent It: Choose bags with reinforced straps; it is also advisable not to carry objects that will obstruct and do not make life easy for a theft. Take special care in places where pickpockets can use sharp implements, such as crowded markets or transport centers. I once ALMOST was a victim with some cut-and-run guy, not opportunistic; I had my bag fairly well reinforced… harder target! Invest in a good bag that will be solid and well-made.
Ok, enough already, fellow travelers… let flyspecks and red tape be beautifully bound by a bow (just as I wish I could do with my protractiles.) Hopefully, after this detailed account of getting robbed by pocket thieves, you may actually feel some kind of sense of readiness. Yes, children traveling does complicate things, but with a few tricks, you can outwit the stealthy intruders and focus on continuing your adventure safely.
Do not show off your valuables; otherwise, you will never lose them. And while we are talking about minimizing, get rid of those massive backpacks. They are essentially a giant, flashing neon sign saying: “Hey, come see all of my shit!” Instead, secure your pack near you because, in a lot of ways, it is your baby. Take the lead while walking around. Protect yourself before you go, and keep one eye behind you. And, of course, the most simple are often times the best.
Get an RFID-blocking wallet — because why not make those electronic pickpockets work a little harder? Combine that with theft-resistant clothing and a money belt or neck stash for another level of protection. Oh, and keep some of that extra cash in the least likely place anyone could think of finding it—like wrapped up in a plastic wrap and hidden under a tomato plant. Ok, I like to refer to it as my “just in case” stash —containable yet reachable.
Be especially alert around certain spots (you know, the ones that make your wallet vibrate™) Oh, not be stopped by the looks. But as I said, appearances can be deceptive: a smartly dressed crook is no less of a crook. Also, check out typical pickpocket tricks and be prepared — at least you will immediately know if something happens to you or not. Finally, looks like a local. Fly under the radar, and you might not get targeted at all.
Traveling with kids is a whirlwind of excitement and chaos—the last thing you need to add to your list of challenges on the road is falling victim to a pickpocket. Using the above hints, you can be equipped with the schooling to outsmart those sneaky thieves and get back on your holiday along with your own family, which allows you to make happy recollections. But keep in mind you don’t need to be afraid, just a smart traveler.
With that, get your gear; keep an eye out and enjoy the ride. Surely, the world is vast and full of mysteries to uncover. Except make sure you have the map and not a wallet in some pickpockets. All the best and enjoy your trips between the thrill and security of a military assignment.
