The Unexpected Place Where Tourists Need To Remain On Guard For Pickpockets

Among the different risks tourists face in unfamiliar destinations, pickpocketing is undoubtedly one of the most common. Tourists are easy targets for this kind of theft, especially because they're often distracted by the thrill of the new surroundings, and they're considered rich by default. If you're asked to mention some of the places where you're most likely to get pickpocketed, you'd most likely think of crowded tourist spots such as major cities, popular attractions, bustling markets, and public transport. Funnily enough, there's one place that probably wouldn't make the list, and that's the bathroom — a "cozy" little space that is actually one of the most underestimated risks for travelers.

Restrooms have proven to be a clever hunting ground for petty thieves because they're aware that travelers instinctively let down their guards in such places. Let's face it: A bathroom is a private space where you tend to focus on whatever you're there to do. For that reason, you probably don't pay much attention to guarding your wallet or phone, and that's exactly what the thieving opportunists are looking to take advantage of. With bags hanging on hooks or momentarily left unattended, a skilled thief can sneak away with something valuable without being noticed, especially if the environment is cramped or dimly lit.

The assumption that a bathroom is a safe place to pause and ease off during a hectic journey can come at a cost. One Redditor, Nearby-Hurry3328, narrated on r/travel how they were a victim of theft in a bathroom at Rome's Fiumicino International Airport. While this traveler was washing their hands, an unknown woman reportedly sidled up to them, fiddling with a toothbrush, asking odd questions about the sink, and acting strangely. "At the time, I thought she was just a strange person," the traveler recalled, "but 15 minutes later, I looked down to see that the top of my crossbody bag was unzipped and my wallet with cash and credit cards was gone." It was certainly a classic distraction tactic from the woman, and in a place many people would least expect. The traveler even admitted that their "guard was not up as usual in the restroom."

Another Redditor, Postphantom, shared an even bolder encounter on r/sydney. "Some guy bumped into me as I was using the urinal at central station and now I'm out a wallet," they wrote. "Pretty inconsiderate to commit crimes when someone is indisposed let alone when they need to tap off at the next station." You can read the frustration and feeling of helplessness between the lines, showing just how brazen and calculating pickpockets can be. They know just when to strike by surprise — when people are feeling too relaxed and literally unable to defend themselves. One could even say that these petty thefts are literal tourist "traps" that travelers must learn to avoid.

Given that pickpockets are fond of using distraction techniques, understand that staying aware and alert is one of the primary ways you can stay safe from them in public restrooms (or anywhere you go as a tourist). The first thing you want to do is decide what things you actually need in the restroom. Leave whatever you don't need in your hotel safe, money belt, or any other place that's not easily accessible. The less you carry, the less vulnerable you'll be. Making use of a slim wallet can be helpful in this case. You can also opt for anti-theft bags that come with hidden zippers or slash-resistant straps, making things harder and more discouraging for potential pickpockets.

Another anti-pickpocketing tip for your adventure is zipping your bags (preferably using designs that are difficult to open) and keeping them close to your body at all times. Ideally, position them in front of you instead of slinging them over your shoulder. When using the sink, avoid putting valuables on the counter or anywhere they can be easily grabbed (like your back pocket). It also might help to check your bags and pockets from time to time so you can catch any suspicious activity early. Finally, you should always trust your instincts. Whether a stranger is looking friendly or harmless, the lesson is simple: Never feel too comfortable, even when you think a place might be off-limits for crime. It's perfectly okay to step aside or even walk away when a stranger gets too close to you.