trip. However, letting your guard down can make you a target by thieves
and other unscrupulous elements. Before, you know it, your wallet and
other valuables have disappeared! While there is little or nothing you
can do to stop pickpockets from stealing, there are ways you can avoid
being a victim.
Jumia Travel highlights precautions you should take to avoid being pickpocketed.
Avoid keeping valuables in your back pocket
The
ultimate advice to escape being pickpocketed is to avoid keeping your
valuables in your back pocket. In fact, to be completely safe, store
money and passports in a money belt. Wear this around your waist and
under your shirt. The only way anyone can get your money is to attack
you!
Don’t act like a tourist
This may be difficult
because you are visiting an unfamiliar destination. Some of the things
you can do to blend-in include not being too extravagant in your
appearance, always act like you know where you’re going and be careful
when you handle money.
Obey your instincts
Never
hesitate to cross the street, stop, turn around and do whatever is
necessary to get away from someone who looks like trouble or seems to be
trailing you. Your instinct is right most times, so don’t ignore it.
Shorten bag straps
Don’t
allow your bags and purses to dangle below your waist. Adjust the strap
so that it is close to your elbow. If you allow it to dangle, it can
easily be cut!
Be wary in crowds
The truth is that it
is almost impossible to completely avoid crowded places, but you can be
extra careful when walking through crowds. Keep your bag close to your
body. Also, if you’re carrying a backpack wear it in front.
