Nearly nine in ten travellers are afraid of being pickpocketed

Worst European countries for pickpocketing revealed

Recent data has revealed 87% of tourists feel like they have to take steps to protect themselves and their valuables from pickpockets while travelling. Travel insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk have provided some pointers on how to stay safe from pickpockets in top holiday destinations.

Quotezone’s European pickpocketing index revealed which tourist hotspots have the highest pickpocketing rates, with Italy, France and Spain coming out top. The research showed thousands of people have complained about their valuables being stolen when visiting iconic tourist attractions in Europe. These hotspots bring in large crowds which makes them convenient places for criminals to target unsuspecting holidaymakers.

Pickpockets can move more inconspicuously at these popular spots and snatch purses, grab wallets, phones, jewellery and other valuables, often without victims even noticing. The pickpockets can work by themselves or use an accomplice for distraction so tourists need to be on their guard.  There are precautions individuals can take to protect themselves and deter the thieves.

Non-essentials such as jewellery and extra cash should be left in a safe at the hotel and tourists should keep their credit cards, phones, cameras, and wallets zipped up and close by if they need to carry them. It’s recommended to use a cross-body bag and wear it on the front of their body in large crowds, sealed inner pockets are also a good option.

Important documents, such as passports, visas or vaccination documents should also be left locked in a safe if possible – travellers should also make copies and hide them elsewhere just in case. Tourists should not only be vigilant when moving in crowds, it’s also important to keep belongings close when sitting down in a restaurant or bar, or using public transport.

When withdrawing money from an ATM, it’s crucial not to engage in conversations with strangers and make sure to protect the PIN number. Additionally, ensuring comprehensive travel insurance coverage can provide peace of mind in case of any unfortunate incidents.

Travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk, Tiffany Mealiff said: “European cities are famously popular tourist destinations for sightseeing, with the recent surge in holidaymakers expected to continue throughout 2024, unfortunately this also makes them some of the danger zones for pickpocketing.

“With many people starting to plan out the details for their summer holidays, we are warning holidaymakers to be aware of the potential hazards that come with travelling to these tourist hotspots. While our research showed that 87% of tourists take steps to protect themselves from pickpockets, it’s easy to get carried away while being in a busy and exciting environment, taking in the sights.

“It’s crucial for tourists to always be aware of their surroundings, keep their belongings secure, and consider investing in anti-theft accessories such as money belts or cross-body bags. To minimise losses, it’s best to carry as little of value as possible and leave extra cash, key documentation, expensive jewellery and electronics behind at the hotel.

“Holidaymakers should also familiarise themselves with their travel insurance to check what is and isn’t covered and consider getting add-on gadget travel insurance if they’re travelling with expensive electronics. Remember to also get a police report for the loss or theft of an item if you’ve been pickpocketed, as this will help support the insurance claim.”