Buzz
The risk of pickpocketing is something everyone has to face when traveling; you can never predict when that 'danger' will strike. Below are some valuable tips to help minimize the risk of coming home empty-handed when exploring unfamiliar places.
1. No bag is secure enough for valuable belongings
Never carry your phone, wallet, cash, passport, credit cards in a mini backpack, as a skilled thief can swiftly make those items disappear without a trace. Crossbody bags are also susceptible to a similar fate; a seasoned thief will consider it an easy target for pilfering.
Instead, opt for a securely zipped and sturdy crossbody bag, always keeping it in front. Thieves will quickly assess you as a target with too many challenges, ensuring your safety. However, the best precaution is to store important documents like passports and credit cards in the hotel room.
2. Never let your guard down
Many thieves often operate in gangs, pretending to spill food on you or asking for directions to catch you off guard, while another swiftly steals your wallet and phone. Always prioritize vigilance for both the elderly and children, as they might be part of a pickpocketing gang exploiting your compassion.
3. Utilize Smartphone Apps Wisely
Smart individuals always know how to secure their phones. Enable built-in security features to ensure only you can access it. Android users can download apps like 'Where's my Droid' or 'Antivirus and Security,' while iPhone users should install 'Find My iPhone' app.
4. Pay Attention to Safety While Eating
During an outdoor meal, avoid leaving your phone, wallet, or credit cards on the table unless you want them swiftly snatched by passersby. Never let the server take your credit card, as thieves can impersonate them at any time. Hold onto your card and accompany the server to pay directly at the counter.
5. Mind Your Bag Locks
Avoid using bags with self-locking mechanisms or, worse, those with only a leather flap and no form of protection. In crowded places, such bags are sure to leave you bewildered as you soon realize all your valuables have disappeared.
It's best to invest in a carefully zip-locked bag. In crowded settings like trains or buses, place them on your lap or shorten the straps, holding them in your hand, ensuring they always stay within your sight.
6. Leave Your Favorites at Home
Keep all valuable items at home to avoid the pain, regret, and remorse of losing them. Moreover, this measure allows you to enjoy your trip comfortably without worrying about the safety of those belongings.
If you bring valuable jewelry, the chances are high that they'll quickly find their way into the pockets of thieves.
7. Never Get Drunk
You may indulge in wine, beer, cocktails if you wish, but always in moderation and never let yourself get drunk. Being intoxicated and clueless about your surroundings increases the risk of pickpockets targeting you. For them, the inebriated are easy prey as they remain clueless when a 'skillful' hand snatches their valuables.
8. Thoroughly Research Your Destination
A few years ago, the travel website Trip Advisor published a list of cities notorious for pickpocketing. Unfortunately, fantastic destinations like Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Florence, Prague, Amsterdam, and Athens all made it to this less-than-desirable list.
If you're planning a trip to any destination, research it extensively. This will make you less disoriented in a new land and discourage thieves as they know you're not an easy target.
9. Always Keep Your Luggage with You
When traveling by train, never leave valuable items like MP3 players, cameras, tablets, or wallets at your seat when you go to the restroom or buy food. A moment of neglect, and your unattended belongings become a golden opportunity for thieves.
If you need to sleep, make sure these items are securely stored deep in your bag, always tightly hugging your bag while sleeping, or tying a strap to keep the bag close to you.
10. Stay Vigilant During Sightseeing
When traveling to crowded places, always be vigilant of the crowd around you. The moment you are too engrossed with your camera, diligently reading brochures about landmarks... that's when you become an attractive target for pickpockets. So, always stay vigilant when participating in festivals, strolling through shopping centers, or queuing to visit tourist attractions.
According to Depplus.vn
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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
MytourJune 24, 2015
