Europe is breathtaking, the food, the architecture, the history, the art… and unfortunately, the pickpockets. While that last one doesn’t make it onto most travel brochures, it’s an unavoidable reality in many tourist hotspots. But getting pickpocketed isn’t just bad luck. In most cases, it’s preventable. All it takes is a little knowledge, the right gear, and a few smart habits. Here’s how to protect yourself, and your belongings, so you can enjoy every moment of your trip, stress-free.

1. Know where the biggest threats lie

Not all of Europe is a pickpocketing minefield, but some heavily touristed cities are notoriously dodgy. Aim to know which ones they are.

The top 10 hit list:

• Barcelona, Spain
• Rome, Italy
• Paris, France
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Athens, Greece
• Madrid, Spain
• Milan, Italy
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Budapest, Hungary

Two caveats: first, this doesn’t mean that every area of these cities is pickpocket central. The most significant danger lies in famous tourist points of interest that attract large crowds. Second, this also doesn't mean you won't have your pockets picked clean in, say, Munich, Germany. Petty theft is part and parcel of 'big city – big crowds' life, so don't let your guard down if you travel outside these areas.

2. Research the most common pickpocketing scams

Searching in Google 'the most common pickpocketing scams in [insert your destination]' is a good idea before travelling. Do this for every place you're visiting. Aside from the usual wallet-purse-watch grabs, there are many other common tricks, including ATM distraction techniques, mobile phone robberies, scooter snatch-n-grabs and the good old ‘oh look, I’ve found a gold ring is it yours?’ scam so famous around Paris’ Montmartre neighbourhood.

The internet has a wealth of information and personal stories regarding robberies from specific European cities. Be informed, and you'll see them coming a mile away.

3. Don’t have anything on you that’s worth stealing

A good rule of thumb is only to carry on you what you are prepared to lose. That means leaving the fancy watch, waddles of Euros and expensive designer jewellery in your hotel safe.

Come to think of it…why are you travelling with a Rolex and Bvlgari ring? Leave those at home – where they'll be safest.

Adopt the “travel light” philosophy, which means you will have fewer valuables to worry about!

4. Wear a money belt and split up your money

An oldie but a goodie: wear a money belt underneath your t-shirt or jacket and put most of your cash inside it. Only keep a small amount in your purse or wallet, which you can use to pay for drinks, food and transportation for the day.

Keep Your Stuff Close

Try the Go Anywhere Belt Bag, Zoomlite’s anti-theft upgrade to the classic money belt. With lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and a sleek profile, it keeps your essentials hidden, secure, and super close.

5. Put your passport and credit cards in an RFID wallet

One of the newest scams doesn't involve someone taking your wallet or passport to steal your money or identity. Instead, these scammers use technology to scan your card and passport numbers without you even knowing.

Purchase an RFID wallet to protect your identity, and you won’t have to worry about a scam like this happening to you.

6. Get an anti-theft bag

One of the handiest travel companions, a high-quality anti-theft bag will prevent scammers and pickpockets from ever getting to your valuables and belongings.

Anti-theft bags & backpacks come with various safety features designed to protect your belongings. These include:

• Lockable Zippers: Locking systems that make opening more difficult.
• Slash-Proof Materials: Fabric designed to resist blades.
• RFID Blocking: Shields your personal information from digital skimming.
• Interior and Exterior Pockets: For secure organisation and safer storage.
• Cut-Proof Straps: Reinforced to prevent snatch-and-run attempts.

7. Be extra careful around popular tourist attractions

Crowded tourist areas are where pickpockets hunt their prey. That’s outside and inside museums (ever seen the crazy crowds around the Mona Lisa?!), monuments, churches, plazas, and pedestrian shopping strips – like Las Ramblas in Barcelona.

If you were a petty thief, you would salivate at the sight of thousands of tourists slowly meandering, distracted by the awe-inspiring beauty around them.

8. Avoid looking like a tourist

Locals move with purpose, they don’t pause in the middle of footpaths, fumble with directions, or wear gear that screams “just arrived.” Walk with confidence, check your route discreetly, and carry only what you need. The less attention you draw, the less likely you are to be targeted.

9. Be extra careful on public transportation

Public transport, full of commuters in a hurry, is a thief's playground; they can capitalise on the hustle and bustle of the commuters to swoop in and make a quick getaway with any items of value. With people crammed in like sardines, it's hard to keep track of your possessions, and before you know it, your wallet is lighter, and you have zero ideas how that happened.

10. Keep your mobile off the table

If you ever want to learn how lightning-fast thieving hands can be, leave your phone on a table at an outdoor café or busy restaurant. Whoa!

Don't make it easy for them – be mindful of your surroundings, and your phone could stay where it belongs - in your bag.

11. Be super vigilant at ATMs

Use ATMs inside banks during opening hours. Avoid Euronet ATMs in tourist hotspots. And if you're travelling with someone, tag-team it, one person uses the ATM while the other stands guard. It’s not being paranoid, it’s being prepared.

12. Never let your guard down

That relaxed, “I’ve got the hang of this” travel feeling? It’s lovely, until it isn’t. The more complacent you get, the higher the risk of a quick theft.

Stay alert. Keep your stuff close. Even if you’ve got the right gear.

13. Don’t fall for out-of-place distractions

You know what’s normal? A friendly smile. You know what’s not? A stranger handing you a baby goat or spilling wine on your chest.

If something feels bizarre or out of place, someone’s probably in your pocket while you’re figuring it out. Don’t fall for it.

14. TRUST your instincts

If something feels off, it probably is. You don’t need proof. Just tighten your grip, move on, or get out of there. Trust your gut, it's your best first line of defence.

15. Be careful about losing something

You’re more likely to lose something yourself than to have it stolen.

New environments = new habits. Stay organised, avoid using hotel drawers, and keep your essentials in a consistent spot. Even the smartest travellers forget earrings in the bathroom or passports in the safe.

16. Have travel insurance… just in case

Insurance is boring talk, until it isn’t. If something does get stolen, damaged or lost, having a good travel insurance policy can save your trip and your wallet. Get covered before you go.

In short, you need to prepare to have a great trip

Europe is home to some of the world's most spectacular sights, and some of its most skilled pickpockets. But don’t let that scare you. With the right gear, a bit of knowledge, and a dash of confidence, you’ll be way ahead of the game.

Pack smart. Stay aware. And enjoy every second of your trip.

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