Stay On Your Toes To Avoid Getting Pickpocketed At This Iconic Las Vegas Tourist Trap

We hear plenty about tourists getting pickpocketed throughout Europe. These swipers can be so sneaky that even travel expert Rick Steves has been pickpocketed three times. However, major tourist attractions in the United States see this type of petty theft as well. Pickpockets thrive in crowded spaces where they can nick your phone or wallet among the hustle and bustle without getting noticed. One place in particular that fits this description is Las Vegas.

Given that Las Vegas is such an iconic entertainment hub in the United States, it might not come as a complete surprise that it's a notable location where tourists are likely to encounter pickpockets. Places in Sin City that have lots of foot traffic, like the Strip and Fremont Street Experience, often have street performers. Those who gather around to watch these dancers, singers, and acrobats might be distracted enough to not notice a crafty hand snatching their personal items. Just a short lapse in awareness while you watch the performers is enough for pickpockets to make a clean getaway.

Many armchair travel experts online advise Las Vegas visitors to keep all bag compartments zipped at all times to prevent easy swiping. Better yet, keep valuables in inside pockets on your bags and inside interior jacket pockets instead of outer pockets. Use small, unpretentious crossbody bags and keep a hand over your bag when walking through crowds. Keep an eye on your personal items when sitting at a slot machine or card table inside casinos, too.

Aside from getting pickpocketed, money is another issue that can come with watching street performers. Sometimes performers ask for donations. When they get an audience invested in a seemingly free bit of entertainment, then start pressing people for money, some observers might feel scammed. Others go so far as to rank pushy street performers among the biggest tourist traps in Las Vegas. This is not to say that you must avoid them at all costs — just be aware that they may ask for a few dollars in between tricks. Of course, if you enjoyed an act, there's certainly nothing wrong with kicking in a few bucks to support an independent artist. There's also nothing wrong with simply saying "no," if you prefer.