Handbag snatching is on the rise. While there have been plenty of explanations put forward, including the possibility that the crime is just being reported more, it’s a scary thing to think about. I keep my world in my bag! Luckily, there are a few ways that you can make it more difficult for a thief to snatch your bag. Give these anti handbag snatching tricks a try, and they’ll soon become established.
Handbag snatching is a lot harder if you are wearing a crossbody bag, but only if you wear it right. Dangling it over one side might seem easier, but if you wear it as it was designed, it’s almost impossible to steal it. If the bag is on your right side, for example, the strap should reach across your body and rest on the top of your left shoulder. You’ll feel any movement in your bag, and it won’t come off easily, so you’ll be aware the moment anyone tries to touch your bag.
Moreover, adjust the strap to be snug against your body. A loose strap can give snatchers a gap to grab. For added security, opt for bags with thick straps that can't be easily cut. Also, consider the material of your bag; durable fabrics are less likely to be sliced open. While you're out, maintain a posture that makes you less of a target—walk with purpose and stay alert. Keeping your bag in front while in crowded spaces also diminishes the chances of a thief succeeding without you noticing.
The safest way to carry a clutch bag is to hold it against your body, under your arm, so that your arm and hand both hold the bag. The most common method of stealing clutch bags involves a thief punching the bag forward from behind, then running around you, grabbing it and running. The same can also happen the other way round – approaching you face-on, and punching the bag behind you. Be aware, and hold on tight.
Holding a coat? Carry your handbag underneath it. If your handbag is covered, it’s protected. It would take so much longer to snatch it from under your coat that it just wouldn’t be worth it. Just make sure that you do have a hold of your bag, so you don’t drop it!
Do you put your purse right in the top of your handbag? I do – it makes it much easier to find, and stops me having to root around when I’m trying to pay. This does actually make stealing purses easier, though. The thief just needs to get your bag open, and nick the purse from the top. Thwart their efforts by hiding your purse in a hidden pocket, or burying it down into your bag.
Fanny packs are becoming more common, and there have even been some stylish versions released – it seems the rise in handbag snatching is affecting everyone. Keeping your essentials in a fanny pack or waist wallet cuts your chances of it being stolen, and keeps your hands free, too. They are also great for travelling abroad!
Fanny packs are becoming a popular choice for women looking to protect their handbags from thieves. These bags are often worn around the waist, and are designed to keep your belongings safe and secure. They come in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors, so you can easily find one that matches your outfit.
Fanny packs can also be a great choice for travelling abroad. Many of them come with RFID blocking technology, which prevents thieves from scanning your credit cards and passport. This is especially important when travelling to countries with a high rate of theft. Additionally, they are often lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and store when you’re on the go.
Fanny packs can also be a great way to keep your hands free. With a fanny pack, you don’t have to worry about juggling your bag or having it slip off your shoulder. This is especially helpful if you’re carrying a lot of items or if you’re going to be in a crowded area.
Avoid the urge to keep things in your back pocket, and instead use a front pocket and keep your hand close by. It’s much harder to knock a wallet or phone out of a front pocket, and almost impossible to slide your hand in without the owner knowing. This goes for any other unsecured pockets, too – like big coat pockets, if they twist behind you while you walk.
Handbag snatching isn’t an art, and usually victims remember seeing someone who was behaving suspiciously before it happened. Look for people who hang around, or who keep touching you. If you do feel nervous, hold onto your bag, purse, or phone, and keep your wits about you!
I’ve got into the habit of ignoring my handbag most of the time, and it’s been a long time since I’ve thought about handbag snatching. It’s something we should all be aware of, though, and hopefully we’ll kick it to the curb. Do you pay enough attention to your handbag?