HOW TO AVOID PICKPOCKETS IN ITALY
My Anti-Theft Strategies
Over the years, I’ve developed a set of strategies to ensure that I keep my valuables safe while travelling in Italy (and anywhere else, for that matter). Below, I share the methods I use to protect my belongings, which have proven effective in various situations, particularly in areas known for pickpocketing. Understanding how to avoid pickpockets in Italy is crucial for a stress-free journey.
1. Maintain a Healthy Suspicion of Everyone
One of the first rules I live by when travelling is to be suspicious of everyone.
This might sound overly cautious, but it’s a necessary mindset in areas where pickpockets operate. It’s not about being paranoid; rather, it’s about staying aware of your surroundings and the people around you.
I pay close attention to anyone who seems to be watching me too intently or who suddenly appears very close to me.
Trusting your instincts is crucial—if something feels off, it probably is.
2. Keep Bags in Front
Whether I’m carrying a sling bag, crossbody bag, or backpack, I always make sure it’s positioned in front of me, with my hand over it.
Keeping your bag close to your body and in your line of sight significantly reduces the chances of a pickpocket getting to it.
A key principle I follow is to keep my bag as close to my face as possible. The higher up the bag is, the more difficult it becomes for pickpockets to access it without being noticed. Bags that hang around the hips or lower are easier targets, so I avoid wearing my bag in that position. Keeping the bag at chest height or higher, and always within my line of sight, adds an extra layer of security.
Backpacks, even when padlocked, can still be vulnerable to skilled pickpockets. For this reason, in crowded places like public transport or tourist hotspots, I always wear my backpack in front of me. Having the backpack in front allows me to keep a watchful eye on it, ensuring that no one can tamper with the zippers or compartments.
With a sling bag, I hold it in front of me, keeping one hand on it at all times. This not only gives me physical control over the bag but also makes it difficult for someone to access it without my knowledge.
3. Under the Jacket in Winter
During the colder months, I take extra precautions by wearing my sling bag underneath my jacket, with the jacket zipped up. This method adds an additional layer of protection, as it becomes nearly impossible for a pickpocket to reach the bag without physically moving my clothing. It also keeps my belongings secure and protected from the elements.
4. Secure Bags in Restaurants
When dining out, I never leave my bag unattended or hanging off the back of a chair. Instead, I place it on my lap or on the floor under the table between my feet and loop the sling through one of my legs. This way, if anyone tries to move or take the bag, I’ll immediately feel it. Holding the bag in this position ensures that it’s always within my control, even when I’m focused on my meal.
5. Keep Belongings on Lap in Crowded Trains or Buses
When seated in crowded trains or buses, I place all my belongings on my lap, with the most valuable items positioned closest to me. This not only makes it more difficult for someone to snatch something but also keeps everything within my sight and control at all times.
6. Ignore People Who Try to Stop You
If anyone tries to stop me in the street—whether it’s to ask for directions, offer help, or distract me in any way—I make it a rule to ignore them. Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups, using one person to distract while another steals. By not engaging, I minimize the risk of falling into their trap. If I feel that I should stop, I make sure to do so well away from the person, keeping a safe distance to avoid any potential threat.
7. Be Wary of Offers of Help at ATMs and Ticket Machines
Another common trick involves offering unsolicited help at ATMs or ticket machines. If someone approaches me while I’m using an ATM or buying a ticket, I immediately stop the transaction and walk away, ideally towards a guard or carabiniere. These individuals typically disappear when they realize you’re heading towards law enforcement. If no guard is available, I’ll simply find another ATM or ticket machine to complete my transaction.
Final Thoughts ...
Travelling should be an enjoyable experience, free from the worry of losing your belongings, and understanding how to avoid pickpockets in Italy is a way to ensure a good vacation. By adopting these protective measures, I’ve been able to significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to pickpockets.
Staying vigilant, keeping your belongings close, and trusting your instincts are key strategies that can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and stress-free journey. Remember, the closer your valuables are to you, both physically and mentally, the safer they will be.
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