A key mistake has been pointed out to tourists who travel to popular holiday destinations without thinking about watching out for thieves and pickpocketers.
Pickpockets tend to sneak through crowded areas like tourist attractions and public transport stations to find their victim, reports the Express. So, one Reddit user asked the question on the online social forum - how do you look less of a stranger in your environment, and avoid being targeted by thieves?
A fellow traveller replied, and made the point of trying to "walk with purpose" while out exploring a new city or area on your holidays.
Pickpockets may target people who look unsure of their surroundings, or are using something to help them navigate - like a map or their phone.
It is an important idea to check your route before heading out to explore, so you don't end up getting lost in the city.
If you do become lost, nipping into a cafe to check your route is better than stopping dead on the street and figuring it out.
Another Reddit user said: "I did an accidental experiment in Istanbul about a month ago.
"I walked through one of the tourist areas wearing a plain winter coat and none of the grifters talked to me.
"Walked the same route again in just a t-shirt and got bugged a lot. For me the weather was perfectly fine, but for locals it was still ‘cold’ and so I identified myself as a foreigner."
Tourists who are dressed for warm weather could look more obvious than local residents, and could be identified as a target through their clothing.
However, it can sometimes be impossible to not look tourist-like - so travellers could protect their valuables by using a flat money belt that can be concealed under clothing.
It is also wise to leave any belongings they do not require in the hotel safe, and not take them exploring into the city.
Travellers will need to be particularly careful in busy areas or at tourist attractions where they're likely to be distracted.
Thieves may target tourists who have stopped to take a selfie or photo, who are distracted and unlikely to notice if someone takes something out of their pocket.
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