While I wrote this guide for Brazil, it applies anywhere pickpockets are present.
You should always be aware of pickpockets in major cities such as Paris, London, Milan, HCMC, and many more.
#1 Leave Your Phone in the Hotel
While you can use your cellphones throughout Rio de Janeiro. Sometimes there are situations where you should leave your phone at the hotel AND in a locked safe. Thieves will ignore you when they see you’re without a phone.
But if you need to bring your phone to capture content, follow this guide.
#2 DO NOT Go to Crowded Areas
AVOID crowds like the plague. Areas where you’ll be walking shoulder to shoulder should be avoided. Try to walk along the perimeter where it’s less crowded.
Crowded areas can be anywhere, such as concerts, trains, buses, and even the beach.
#3 Avoid Commotion and Distractions
Creating chaos is a perfect recipe for pickpocketing. Many pickpockets work in groups where one person causes commotion and distracts, while another pickpockets. If you see and hear commotion, head in the opposite direction as quickly as possible.
If there is nowhere for you to run (ie. You’re on a train until the next stop.), take your bag to the front of you and hold it close to your body. Always ensure that your bag is zipped shut.
#4 Use a Lock on Your Bags When Possible
I typically buy a bag that has a double zipper so that I can lock it with a travel lock.
I also recommend wearing a fanny pack close to your body. Wear it at the front of your chest so that thieves will not be tempted to tear it from your chest.
The lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is the perfect size for traveling. I would recommend putting your phone in the back pocket and zipping it up.
I see many people in Brazil with large bags. While I think it’s inconvenient and an eyesore for thieves, they are probably not inclined to dig into a large bag because it will take time to find a mobile phone in a deep bag.
Related: Anti-Theft Gear
#4 Wear a Phone Lanyard or Wrist Strap
Phone lanyards make the phone an extension of your body, and if a thief tries to take it, you’ll definitely feel it tugging at your body. Same with phone wrist straps, although I’ve met people who have had their phones snatched while wearing a wrist strap or clutch purse.
#5 Go Into Stores or Hotels When Using Your Phone
Pickpockets and snatch-and-run thieves often target distracted tourists using their phones. These thieves typically travel by motorbike and snatch phones before you can react.
When you need to use your phone, head into a store or hotel to use your cellphone.
#6 Carry a Backup Phone or Cheap Local Device
Some travelers opt to carry a secondary phone, especially when heading to crowded festivals or public transit areas. Use your main phone in your hotel and safe areas. Use a cheap local phone with a prepaid SIM while out and about.
#7 Stay Alert
Don’t be an easy target! Pickpockets are looking for people who are distracted.
Constantly scan the area and don’t get into arguments or fights in busy areas where pickpockets are rampant. Stay focused and save your fight for later.
Distractions give pickpockets a chance to catch you offguard and steal from you.
#8 Travel With Friends
Pickpockets are less likely to target groups of people. While traveling as a group, you can work as a group to keep an eye on potential threats.
And even after this guide, your phone ends up getting stolen, check out our guide on what to do if you get your phone stolen in Brazil.
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