How to Avoid Being Pickpocketed in Paris

This article will show you how to avoid being pickpocketed in Paris so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Paris is generally a safe city, but like any big city, it unfortunately has petty crimes, and pickpockets are one of them. They’re usually quick, discreet, and know exactly how to take advantage of distracted travelers. So, in this article, I am showing you how to avoid being pickpocketed in Paris so you can have an amazing stay.

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And no, you don’t need to be on high alert every second, but knowing how pickpockets operate and where they’re most active can help you avoid an unfortunate surprise because being pickpocketed can ruin your entire trip. And I don’t want that for you.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

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Château de Lumières in Vincennes: A fascinating show on the history of the château through the centuries 
Candlelight show: Perfect if you want to be treated to a candlelit music show in a beautiful Parisian venue: (4.8/10)
Cabaret at Moulin Rouge: A cabaret in the iconic Moulin Rouge is a must: (4.7/10)

How to Avoid Being Pickpocketed in Paris

1. Never keep your phone or wallet in your back pockets

This is one of the mistakes travelers make!  A wallet or phone sticking out of a back pocket is an open invitation for pickpockets, especially in crowded places like the metro or tourist hotspots. They can easily grab your stuff without you even feeling a thing.

Instead, keep valuables in an inside jacket pocket or a secure, zippered crossbody bag and keep it in front of you. If your bag has multiple compartments, place your most valuable items in the innermost one to make it harder for pickpockets to reach. You could also invest in a money belt for extra security. 

2. Watch out for distractions

This is another important way to avoid being pickpocketed in Paris. Pickpockets often work in teams to divert your attention. Someone might bump into you or create a scene while another takes your valuables. So, always be mindful of sudden distractions in busy areas.

If someone gets uncomfortably close and tries to block your movement, it’s likely a setup. While one person distracts you, another one (either) behind or in front, might be reaching for your stuff.

This trick is especially common in metros, so when this happens, secure your stuff immediately. And if you notice what’s happening, don’t hesitate to call them out loudly. People around you will step in, and if they’ve already taken something, they will force them to return it.

 3. Don’t use your phone near the doors of the metro

If you’re on social media, you’ve probably seen clips like this circulating. Just as the metro doors are about to close, someone snatches a phone right out of a passenger’s hands and runs off leaving them stuck on the train with no way to react.

To avoid this, don’t use your phone if you’re seated or standing near the doors, especially when the train has stopped. If you need to check something, go further inside the train or hold your phone securely with both hands.

And if the metro isn’t crowded, move further inside instead of standing near the doors. That way, you can use your phone in peace without worrying about it being snatched.

4. Never leave your bag on the ground even when taking photos

I often see tourists leave their bags unattended while they focus on taking photos (sometimes for minutes).

Pickpockets and opportunistic thieves are always watching for easy targets, and the second your attention is on your camera or phone, it only takes them a second to grab it and disappear into the crowd before you even realize it’s gone.

To avoid this, always keep your bag secured! Either wear it across your body or keep a firm grip on it.  And if you absolutely need to put it down, keep one foot through the strap or in between your legs to make it harder for anyone to snatch it.

5. Don’t place your phone or bag on top of the table at terrace cafés

It might seem convenient to put your phone or bag on the table while you sip your coffee and watch the world go by, but this is one of the easiest ways for thieves to take your stuff. A pickpocket can walk by, grab it in a few seconds, and run off before you even have a moment to process anything.  

Instead, keep your bag on your lap or loop the strap around your chair leg for extra security. If you’re carrying a crossbody bag, wear it across your body and rest it in your lap while seated. As for your phone, keep it tucked away when you’re not using it.

6. Don’t carry large amounts of cash

Cards are widely accepted in Paris, so there’s no need to walk around with a wallet full of cash.

If you need cash, only take out what you’ll need for the day and keep it in a secure spot (definitely not your back pocket). A zippered bag, an inside jacket pocket, or even a money belt are much safer options. 

That way, in the unfortunate event that you do get pickpocketed, the loss is minimal, and your trip won’t be ruined over lots of stolen cash.

7. Be cautious of strangers who approach you with unsolicited help

If someone insists on “helping” you at a metro ticket machine or offers to watch your bags while you take photos, be wary. These gestures might seem friendly, but they could also be a distraction. While you’re focused on them, an accomplice could be reaching for your valuables. 

A simple “Non, merci” and walking away usually does the trick. Of course, not everyone has bad intentions, and some people may genuinely be trying to help. The key is to read the situation to see if it’s real assistance or a setup.

If something feels off or the person is being overly persistent, it’s best to politely decline their help. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to say no.

8. Trust your gut

Finally, the best way to avoid being pickpocketed in Paris is to trust your gut! If something feels off or suspicious, listen to your instincts and stay alert.

If someone is standing unusually close to you in a less crowded space, if you notice someone following you or bumping into you repeatedly, these could be signs of pickpocketing attempts. Simply move away.

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Final Thoughts on How to Avoid Being Pickpocketed in Paris

This isn’t to say Paris isn’t safe, because it is! Millions of people visit every year without any issues. But, like in any major city, petty crimes like pickpocketing do happen, especially in busy tourist areas.

As long as you stay mindful of your belongings and take a few simple precautions, you’ll be just fine. 

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Common Paris Etiquette
• Mistakes tourists make when making a Paris itinerary
• How much does it cost to visit Paris
• How to Use the Paris Metro
• Which Metro Ticket or Pass Should You Buy In Paris
• Big Mistakes to Avoid in Paris
• What Not to Wear in Paris
• Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Paris
• Big Mistakes to Avoid in Paris

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