Just got my bag snatched at a cafe in Medellin because I left my laptop cord showing

Now I always use a plain backpack and keep all my gear completely out of sight, even the charger, so what other spots should I be extra careful in?

4 comments

4 Comments

jade5171mo ago

So what about taxis or rideshares, do you keep your bag on you then?

olivia_moore7d ago

Always keep it on your lap in a taxi or rideshare. The driver isn't the risk, it's the stoplight. Someone can open the door and grab it before you even react. It's the same basic rule as @dylan_sanchez mentioned about restaurant tables. You have to treat any spot that isn't physically on your body as a temporary holding zone, not a safe place. The goal is to make any grab attempt impossible, not just inconvenient.

ninaowens1mo ago

Man, that's rough. I used to think keeping my stuff hidden was enough too. But honestly, you have to watch yourself on public transit the most, especially when it's packed. Pickpockets work in teams to block you in. And never set your phone on a restaurant table, even for a second, because someone can just grab and run. It feels paranoid but you learn the hard way.

dylan_sanchez1mo ago

Ugh, that's so true about the restaurant table thing. I'm always so careful on the train but I've totally let my guard down while eating. Do you think it's worse in touristy areas or just everywhere now?