Over multiple trips to Europe, I’ve visited cities known for having pickpockets and scammers—places like Paris, Rome, Florence, and Barcelona. Despite their reputation, I’ve never had any bad experiences, which often leads people to ask: How did I avoid being pickpocketed or scammed?

The truth is, it takes some effort and awareness, but it’s entirely possible to stay safe. Here are the key things I did to protect myself and my belongings.

how to avoid pickpockets in Europe

3 Tips to Avoid Being Pickpocketed or Scammed in Europe (Or Anywhere, Really)

1. Secure Your Stuff—My Most Important Rule

The best way to prevent theft is to make it difficult for pickpockets to get to your valuables. This is something I take seriously, and I go the extra mile to secure my belongings.

  • Bag security: I sew metal rings and carabiners inside all the bags I use for sightseeing. I attach important items like my wallet and passport to the carabiners using pouches with wrist straps. This means that even if someone manages to unzip my bag, they won’t be able to just grab my valuables.
  • Phone security: My phone has a ring holder that fits my finger, so when I’m using it for photos or navigation, it’s securely in my hand. I also attach a wrist strap to it so that even if someone tries to snatch it, it’s still attached to me.
  • Zippers facing inward: If I’m carrying a backpack, I make sure the zippers are against my back, making it harder for pickpockets to access.

It might seem excessive, but this system has worked for me across multiple trips, and I never have to worry about my things being stolen.

2. Always Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Pickpockets and scammers thrive on distraction. If you’re not paying attention, you’re an easy target. I make it a habit to:

Watch for unusual behavior. If someone gets too close for no reason, bumps into me, or tries to engage me in an unsolicited conversation, I stay alert.

Avoid crowded spaces when possible. Busy metro stations, tourist attractions, and public squares are hotspots for pickpockets. If I have to be in a crowd, I make sure my bag is in front of me and my hands are on my valuables.

Be extra careful at ATMs. I always check my surroundings before withdrawing money and cover the keypad when entering my PIN.

3. Research Common Scams Before Visiting

Scams can vary from city to city, so I always research the common ones in each place I visit. This helps me recognize and avoid them. Some scams I’ve seen or heard about include:

  • The “friendship bracelet” scam (Paris, Barcelona): Someone offers you a "free" bracelet, then forces you to pay after they tie it on your wrist.
  • The petition scam (Paris, Rome): Someone asks you to sign a petition (often pretending to be deaf or supporting a fake charity) and then demands a donation.
  • Fake taxis (Rome, Barcelona): Unlicensed taxis overcharging tourists. I only use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps.
  • The “found ring” scam (Paris): Someone "finds" a ring on the ground, claims it’s valuable, and tries to sell it to you.
  • The fake police scam (various cities): Someone pretending to be a police officer asks to see your passport or wallet, then takes your money. I would never hand over anything unless I can verify they’re real officers. Also police officers don't really do random passport checks unless you're at a border crossing.

Plus, there are so much more. By knowing these scams in advance, I can spot them right away and walk away before getting involved.


Avoiding pickpockets and scams in Europe isn’t about being paranoid—it’s about being prepared. By securing my belongings, staying aware, and researching common scams, I’ve been able to enjoy my trips without any issues.

Would I recommend going to these cities despite their reputation for pickpockets? Absolutely. As long as you take precautions, you can explore with confidence and focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about theft.

Have you had any experiences with pickpockets or scams while traveling? Let me know in the comments!