Travelling across Europe with children can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences—but staying safe in crowded tourist hotspots is essential. One of the most common travel threats in major cities is pickpocketing. These thefts are quick, subtle, and often go unnoticed until it’s too late. As parents, you already have your hands full, so here are some practical ways to protect your belongings and avoid becoming a target.

1. Know Where the Risk Is Highest

Pickpocketing is especially common in Europe’s most visited destinations. Cities like Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and Prague are regularly listed among the worst for pickpocket-related theft. Crowded tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Trevi Fountain, or metro stations during rush hour are places where pickpockets thrive. They know travellers are often distracted—whether that’s taking photos, managing luggage, or tending to children.

Tip: Before visiting a new city, research high-risk areas and plan safer, less crowded routes when possible.

2. Understand Pickpockets’ Tactics

Pickpockets often work in pairs or small groups, using distraction as their main tactic. One might ask you a question, bump into you, or pretend to drop something while another quietly lifts your phone or wallet. In many cases, the thief may not look suspicious—they could be dressed like a tourist, a local child, or someone pretending to help. When you're juggling kids, prams, or multiple bags, you're especially vulnerable.

Tip: If someone is acting overly friendly or trying to divert your attention, keep one hand on your bag and stay alert.

3. Use Secure Bags & Hidden Compartments

Choosing the right bag can make a big difference in deterring theft. Cross-body bags worn in front of the body are ideal, especially those with locking zippers or hidden compartments. For parents using nappy bags, ensure your valuables aren’t in the outer pockets. Passport holders that go under your clothes or money belts are another great option for safely storing important items.

Tip: Don’t leave bags hanging on the back of chairs or open in prams—secure them to your body at all times.

4. Attach AirTags or Trackers

Using Bluetooth trackers like Apple AirTags is a simple and highly effective way to keep tabs on your belongings. Place one in each suitcase, backpack, or everyday bag. If a bag goes missing, you’ll be able to track its last known location via your phone. This can be a huge help in recovering stolen items or even identifying where they were taken.

Tip: If you're using multiple bags (like prams, snack bags, or tech bags), place a tracker in each to be safe.

5. Avoid Flashy Displays

Pickpockets look for easy targets, and visible signs of wealth can make you stand out. Wearing designer accessories, expensive jewellery, or flashy clothing might draw the wrong kind of attention. This doesn’t mean you need to dress down entirely, but being subtle with your valuables helps you blend in, especially in less touristy areas or when using public transport.

Tip: Keep expensive items in your accommodation if you don’t need them for the day—and avoid pulling out cash or tech in public.

6. Stay Aware in Crowded Areas

It’s easy to become distracted in busy places like markets, festivals, or public transport, especially when navigating with children. But these are the environments pickpockets love. Train stations, escalators, and city buses are common hotspots. Even when you're focused on taking a family photo or buying tickets, keep one eye on your bags and surroundings.

Tip: If you're sitting down, place bags in your lap or between your feet with the strap looped around your leg.

7. Keep Your Family Close

When travelling as a family, it's important to keep your group close together. Children can easily be distracted and unknowingly set their bags down or leave phones unattended. Setting simple rules—like always wearing backpacks in front when it’s crowded, or never taking items out on public transport—can help keep everyone safe. Older kids can be taught to recognise suspicious behaviour too.

Tip: Create a family travel codeword that means “be alert” so everyone knows to pay attention without causing alarm.

8. Report & Recover Quickly

If something does go missing, time is critical. Reporting a theft immediately to local police increases your chances of recovery and is essential for making insurance claims. Be prepared by keeping copies of important documents (like passports) in a separate location or stored digitally. Having backup contact info for your bank or phone provider can also speed up the process.

Tip: Take photos of your essential documents before you travel and keep them stored securely online (like in an email or cloud folder).

Pickpocketing can happen in seconds, but being prepared can reduce the risk dramatically. With a few smart habits, practical tools, and extra awareness, you can enjoy your European travels with confidence—even with little ones in tow. At Kooshy Kids, we’re here to help families travel safer and more comfortably, every step of the way.