One of the biggest mistakes travelers make in Europe is assuming pickpockets are easy to spot. In reality, they often look like ordinary tourists, students or even well-dressed couples. And as these videos from Italy show, thefts can happen in just seconds — especially on crowded trains, metros and tram platforms when people are distracted with luggage, phones or boarding doors.
After coming across a post on Rick Steves Europe Facebook Group, a traveler shared that while visiting Florence, they experienced multiple attempted pickpocket incidents around the train station and on packed metro/tram cars, particularly during boarding and right before the doors closed. While millions of travelers visit Europe every year without any issues, busy transit hubs in cities like Florence, Rome, Paris and Barcelona are known hotspots for distraction theft. Same goes for here in the U.S.A.
You just have to be hyper aware and take some safety precautions. Below are some videos which do a great job showing how quickly and professionally some thieves operate:
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Here’s one of someone trying to steal a bag that they put down while eating gelato.
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One thing these videos highlight is how distraction techniques work. Thieves often operate in teams: one person blocks or distracts while another reaches into a pocket or bag. In one clip, the thief even drapes a jacket over her arm to conceal her hand while attempting to steal a wallet.
The good news? A few simple habits dramatically reduce your risk. When you’re traveling (and even at home), it’s advisable to keep your valuables (cash, credit cards and phone) concealed. Women can opt for an RFID-blocking anti-theft crossbody bag like this one, which also features slash-resistant straps. A money belt is another great option to keep things hidden but easily accessible. I also wear a Scottevest jacket when I travel. It has 20+ pockets to keep all of my valuables safe and on my person at all times. They make lots of men’s and women’s styles to choose from.
This post isn’t meant to scare anyone. Most trips to Europe are completely trouble-free and the overwhelming majority of people are kind and honest. But staying aware in crowded transit areas is simply smart travel practice — whether you’re in Italy, Paris, New York or your hometown.
