The reality is, if it is something you just can't bear to lose, you shouldn't be keeping it in your pocket anyway. If you absolutely have to have certain items on you, invest in a travel purse or a jacket with an inner pocket that zips closed. Keeping your valuables as close to your body as possible will help keep them safe. Pockets, particularly in pants, are open and provide easy access to pickpockets.
Do not use bags that don't close. Open bags that allow the pickpocket to see the contents just invite theft. Always choose bags or purses that close completely and store important documents or valuable items in the interior pockets. A bag with interior pockets that zip closed is even better. Creating several barriers between yourself and the pickpocket makes it more difficult to steal your things without you noticing.
Use your arm to block your bag and keep it close to your body. This is particularly important for women, who tend to leave their purses hanging at the side of or slightly behind their body. Men who travel with backpacks also have a tendency to leave their bags on their back, even when entering crowded areas. Holding your purse or bag close to the front of your body keeps it in your visual range, which automatically deters pickpockets from reaching their hands in.
Large quantities of people in small spaces or public places, such as festivals, concerts, crowded subway cars and parades, are prime picking ground for experienced pickpockets. When you are being pushed around in a crowd of people, you tend to notice less if someone touches you or reaches in your pocket. Always keep your belongings where you can see them in crowds and pay attention to those around you.
