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Date Published: 15/11/2022
Protect yourself against pickpockets while on holiday: 3 expert tips
Travel expert advises holidaymakers on how to keep their valuables safe on the next trip to Spain
Pickpockets are unfortunately part and parcel of some of the larger cities and while Spain has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other popular destinations, street markets, shopping centres and beaches still provide the perfect opportunity for cunning thieves to fleece unsuspecting tourists.
Luckily help is on hand in the form of personal finance expert at money.co.uk, James Andrews, who has provided his 3 top tips for keeping your belongings safe while on holiday.
1. Don’t leave your valuables on display
James’s best advice is to keep expensive jewellery and devices like smartphones and tablets well away from the prying eyes of would-be thieves.
He said: “Ensure that all of your valuables are tightly zipped away in a bag or purse when you’re in tourist areas.”
Check if your hotel room has a safe and if not, invest in a secure bag with a strong zip. Bags should always face in towards the body and be hidden under clothing, if possible.
“There are also bags and garments specifically designed to counteract pickpockets, with secret pouches and compartments, for example, money belts are a safe option.
“Even if a pickpocket knows you’re wearing one, the hassle of trying to steal from one makes you less likely to be pickpocketed.
Stash your cash in a money belt
As James says, nothing is ever 100% fool-proof when it comes to avoiding pickpockets, but wearing a money belt under your clothes will usually serve as a deterrent, since it’s much more difficult to get at.
The expert added: “Avoid wearing a backpack where possible. Unfortunately, backpacks are perhaps the easiest thing for pickpockets to target as it is of course on your back, therefore you can’t always keep an eye on it”.
And since the opening of the rucksack usually doesn’t touch your body, it’s that much easier for thieves to pinch your belongings from behind without you noticing.
3. Stay under the radar
Sadly, Barcelona has recently been named as one of the most prevalent cities in Europe for pickpockets, as one American tourist discovered this summer when his extremely expensive designer watch was literally snatched from his wrist.
“Try not to advertise yourself to pickpockets, so stay alert and don’t overtly flash any valuable jewellery, items or cash when visiting European cities,” James concluded.
Image: Pixabay
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