High-Risk Pickpocket Areas
Your risk of pickpockets increases when you visit Prague's touristy areas. These areas include:- Charles Bridge
- Karlova Street
- Old Town Square
- Wenceslas Square
Pickpockets don't limit their activities to these areas. Pickpockets hang out in any crowded area. People have also been pickpocketed on Prague subway and tram cars.
Avoiding Prague Pickpockets
Prague pickpockets are professionals, and they can steal your money, credit cards, and other valuables without attracting notice. To avoid Prague pickpockets:- Be aware of your surroundings. Being aware is the number one pickpocket-avoidance strategy. Not only will being aware allow you to know what's going on around you, if you make yourself look aware, pickpockets may move on to an easier victim.
- Don't underestimate the pickpockets' skill. Practiced ruses, teamwork, and an eye for the unaware are some of the tools they use to steal travelers' money.
- Take only what you need for that day and leave the rest in your hotel safe – extra cash, credit cards, and your passport. Even if a Prague pickpocket picks you as a victim, you won't be cleaned out if you follow this strategy.
Carrying Your Money Safely
How you carry your money determines, in part, your likelihood of being pickpocketed. Use the following tips:- Carry your money close to you. Some people prefer money belts as the safest option.
- If you don't like the idea of a money belt, use a pocket-sized walled. Slip your hand into your pocket and clutch the wallet when you enter crowded spaces.
- If you carry your money in a bag, choose a bag designed with a top that closes securely. In crowded areas and on public transportation, carry the bag in front of you with your arm pressed against the opening. Bags with shorter straps are easier to keep close to you than bags with long straps.
- For minor transactions, keep petty cash in a separate compartment to keep from flashing all your money when you pay for your purchases.
