What are the best ways to avoid pickpockets in cities like Paris and London
As I plan my summer trip to London and Paris, there’s one worry I just can’t shake — the risk of pickpockets. After reading a few Reddit threads, I realized that summer conditions in both cities aren’t ideal when it comes to petty crime.
Determined not to let this ruin my trip, I spent some time researching ways to avoid falling victim to pickpockets. Now, with a few smart strategies in place, I feel much more confident about enjoying my summer holidays without worry.
In this post, I’ll first highlight where pickpockets are most likely to strike. Then, I’ll share how I planned my trip around this concern and made sure I packed all the right gear to stay safe. Here are some of my most valuable tips:
Best ways to avoid pickpockets in London and Paris
1. Stay Vigilant
When traveling, especially in crowded places, it’s important to stay attentive and vigilant — not scared, just aware. This mindset really helped me repel potential pickpockets during my travels. In Paris, for example, I wore a neck wallet hidden behind my jacket or shirt. A simple but effective tip: try not to look like a tourist. Instead, blend in with the local culture as much as possible.
One of the biggest lessons I learned was that pickpockets often operate in groups, which can be quite intimidating. They usually carry empty bags and work together to surround their target. It’s crucial to be extra cautious in high-risk areas like metro stations and bus stops. I personally had a close call at a metro station — someone unzipped my bag, but luckily, my hand was inside, and I was able to stop them just in time.
Another practical tip: when sitting outside, loop your bag around your leg or keep it on your lap. A little extra caution can make a big difference.
2. Distraction Techniques used by pick pocketers
Pickpockets often rely on clever distraction techniques to catch their targets off guard. One common tactic I encountered involved a group of women — I referred to them as “gypsies” — who would approach tourists and explicitly ask if they were American. From there, they would encourage you to sign a petition and make a donation.
It’s important to stay alert when approached by strangers in busy tourist areas, especially when the conversation seems random or overly friendly.
3. Money Management and Cash Handling
When it comes to carrying money while traveling, everyone has their own preferences — and it really depends on what makes you feel most comfortable. Some people suggest ditching the wallet altogether and keeping everything on your phone.
However, in cities like Paris and London, mobile phones are among the most commonly lost or stolen items. In fact, in London, phones are a much bigger target than wallets.Because of this, I recommend carrying a spare card or a small amount of cash with you, just in case.
Also, make sure to secure your mobile banking apps: turn off all online transaction settings, reduce your daily spending limit to zero, and disable worldwide payments. Most banking apps nowadays offer these security options, and taking a few minutes to set them up can save you from a lot of trouble later.
Additional Useful Resources
I highly recommend reviewing these resources before you leave for your trip. They will not only help you prevent pickpocketing in London and Paris but also prepare you for any emergency situations.
Here’s a helpful guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Paris, published by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in France.
If you’re traveling to London, this guide from the Metropolitan Police will help you stay safe: How to avoid pickpockets in London