Top 5 Ways to Avoid Being Pickpocketed

These days you can never be to safe from thiefs. It is extremely easy to get distracted for a minute while a stranger quickly snags your wallet or purse and before you even realize it, the thief is a mile down the road and has made well off with your money and other important necessities. There are ways to counter pickpockets and today I'll discuss some of my favorite strategies which definitely have helped me avoid pickpockets.

1.) This technique involves using one of those hiker's keychains, also known as a carabiner. I actually saw my friend doing this and this is how I picked up the idea. You link a chain from a hole in the wallet to the carabiner, and then you attach the carabiner around your belt strap. This way, you can quickly feel any curious hands that may grab your wallet. This same technique can be achieved by using a chain attached from your wallet to your belt strap.

2.) This second technique is pretty simple but effective. Look like you are confident and know what you are doing. It is a common strategy for pickpockets to target people that seem lost of confused.

3.) Be aware of your surroundings. It's easy to get caught in the middle of a jam and have someone snag your belongings. Before entering a crowd of people, make sure you secure your valuables by keeping them well hidden and out of reach.

4.) This step sort of relates to step three but I feel it deserves its own step. Be aware of not only your surroundings, but the people you may communicate with. Don't get distracted as this is probably the number one tactic used by pickpockets to steal your belongings. While having a conversation with a stranger or group of people, keep an eye on people near or around you and don't let them get too close.

5.) Well this again relates to the ending of step four but deserves its own step as well. Don't let people get too close to you! It only takes a matter of seconds for someone to bump into you and grab something. This is a huge strategy used by pickpockets, they bump into you on purpose and for the few seconds you are disoriented they snag your belongings and you never even know what happened. So try to avoid possible confrontations!

In conclusion, these are just a few steps you can take to avoid being pickpocketed but the underlying action you need to take is just be cautious. Be aware of your surroundings and try to appear confident so you aren't targeted. Another good precaution to take is checking for travel advisories if you are traveling to a foreign location. Stay safe!