How to Outsmart Pickpockets in Europe (Without Being Paranoid)
- infinitetravelhub
- Nov 23, 2025
- 3 min read
It’s fair to say I’ve got a pretty good feel for what it’s like dealing with pickpockets in Europe. Luckily, I’ve never been pickpocketed myself – but I’ve heard and read some truly awful stories from clients, friends and other travellers.
A lot of the advice sounds “obvious”, but honestly… you’d be surprised how many people don’t do it once they’re in holiday mode.
Here are some simple, real-life ways to keep your stuff safe without feeling like you’re on high alert the whole time.
1. Ladies – cross-body bag in front, hand on it in crowds
Skip the tote or open handbag. Choose a cross-body bag with a zip, wear it across your body and in front of you, and when you’re in busy areas (metros, tourist sites, markets), rest your hand on it.
It’s harder to unzip or snatch something you’re physically holding.
2. Don’t carry a wallet full of cash
You don’t need all your money on you.
Carry small amounts of cash for daily use
Keep the rest in:
Your hotel safe, or
Split between different spots (e.g. a second wallet/pouch)
If your bag is targeted, you’ve only lost a small amount – not your entire trip budget.
3. Use a phone lanyard – and attach it to something
Phones are a huge target.
If you’re using your phone for maps/photos:
Use a phone lanyard or strap
Clip or tie it to something inside your bag or around your wrist
That way it’s much harder for someone to grab it and run, especially in busy areas or on public transport.
4. Split your cards – never keep them all in one place
This is a big one.
Keep one card on you
Keep one card in your room (ideally in a safe or hidden spot)
If your card is lost or stolen, you’re not stuck with no access to money while you wait for the bank to sort it out.
5. Trust your gut & be aware of “distraction” tactics
Pickpockets are very good at creating distraction.
If:
Someone comes very close to you for no reason
A group suddenly surrounds you
Someone tries to get you to sign a “petition”, look at something or hold something
…assume it could be a distraction.
Move away, keep walking, and make sure you know where your bag, phone and wallet are.
6. Be careful with “helpful” strangers at machines and on trains
This one catches a lot of people out.
At:
Ticket machines
ATMs
Train doors/stations
If someone rushes over to “help” you:
Politely say no thanks
Step back and protect your bag/wallet
If you feel uncomfortable, walk away and find a staff member instead
Not everyone is dodgy, but this is a common tactic.
7. Men – no wallets in back pockets
Simple but important: Do not keep your wallet in your back pocket.
Use:
A front pocket, or
A small cross-body / sling bag worn at the front
A back pocket wallet is basically an invitation in busy areas.
8. Use a sling bag and wear it to the front
For both men and women, a small sling bag worn across your chest is ideal.
Zips facing inwards or towards your body
Worn at the front, especially on metros, in crowds and at busy sights
Again, the harder it is to reach without you noticing, the better.
9. In crowded places, physically touch your belongings
In really busy spots – think:
Metros at peak time
Tourist hot-spots
Crowded festivals or events
Get into the habit of:
Keeping one hand on your bag
Or lightly holding your phone/wallet area in your pocket
Pickpockets are fast and sneaky – you want to make their job as hard as possible.
Final thoughts
You don’t need to be scared of Europe – just prepared and a little bit street-smart. Most trips are completely incident-free, but these simple habits mean you’re much less likely to be that “I got my phone/wallet stolen” story.
If you’re planning a Europe trip and want help with routes, safer areas to stay and practical tips like this, I’m always happy to weave that into your itinerary.
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