Last weekend, a dear friend of mine was robbed in the Chedraui parking lot in Puerto Aventuras. It wasn’t a random grab-and-go—it was a slick, coordinated effort. They made off with her phone, wallet, all her cards, and left her with that awful, lingering feeling that she’d just been violated.
Sadly, this is not an isolated incident—and not just at Chedraui. We have all heard stories about “the mustard bandits”. And while theft happens all year long, I’m especially concerned about this particular low season.
Projections suggest it’ll be one of the toughest we’ve seen in years. Fewer tourists, less cash flowing—even folks with decent jobs are already feeling the strain. That kind of economic pressure makes crime of opportunity more tempting for some.
So this is your friendly but serious reminder to be just a little more careful right now. We all know the basic safety rules—but when we start to feel relaxed and “local,” we sometimes forget to follow them.
Protect Yourself From Theft: Helpful Reminders
Table of Contents
- 1 Protect Yourself From Theft: Helpful Reminders
- 1.1 Watch Your Bags
- 1.2 Don’t Leave Belongings Unattended
- 1.3 Lock It Up
- 1.4 Airport Arrivals = Prime Time for Thieves
- 1.5 Be Aware of Your Surroundings
- 1.6 Distracting You Is the Goal
- 1.7 ATM Caution
- 1.8 Wear Smarter
- 1.9 Men: Front Pocket, Always
- 1.10 Listen to Your Intuition
- 1.11 If you found this article helpful you may also want to read:
Watch Your Bags
Never leave your purse on the back of a chair or on the floor in a restaurant. This is especially true in busy places like Starbucks at Centro Maya. (Ask me how I know. 😡) If it’s not physically on you or under your control, it’s vulnerable.
Don’t Leave Belongings Unattended
Yes, we all love lounging at the beach, but please don’t assume your stuff is safe just because it’s under a lounger or inside a beach bag. Thieves look for easy wins—and unattended bags are one of the easiest.
Lock It Up
Always lock your car, even if you’re “just running in for a second.” Don’t leave anything visible inside—phones, bags, sunglasses, even small change can tempt someone.
Airport Arrivals = Prime Time for Thieves
Coming back from the airport with suitcases? That’s when you’re most distracted. Leave someone to watch the car while the other grabs carts or goes inside. These are classic “window-smash” moments for thieves.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Scan your surroundings in parking lots, grocery stores, and movie theaters. If someone seems to be lingering nearby for no reason, trust your gut and move on.
Distracting You Is the Goal
“Helpful” strangers approaching you out of nowhere might not have good intentions. Often, one person distracts you while another grabs your bag, pops a trunk, or even lifts a phone from your hand. Don’t be afraid to make a scene to scare them off!
ATM Caution
Never let your card be out of your control and never share your pin with anyone. Use machines in well-lit, secure places—ideally inside banks. If you must use a street ATM, don’t go alone. Keep your distance from anyone nearby, and don’t count your cash on the spot.
Wear Smarter
Ladies, crossbody bags are your best friend and good way to protect yourself from theft. Keep them zipped, close to your body, and in front—not hanging off your side or back. I have one I swear by, and I never leave home without it. You can find it on Amazon.
Men: Front Pocket, Always
Back pockets are an open invitation. Use your front pocket or, better yet, a slim neck pouch when traveling or shopping.
Listen to Your Intuition
If something feels “off” it probably is. Don’t ignore that feeling in the pit of your stomach or the hairs going up on the back of your neck. Your intuition is your first line of defense to protect yourself from theft.
These tips might seem obvious, but most of us drop our guard at one point or another. And that’s all it takes.
Let’s look out for each other this season. Check in with your neighbors, share warnings when you hear something, and don’t be afraid to speak up if something feels off.
Stay safe out there. ❤️
If you found this article helpful you may also want to read:
Tips for Avoiding Vacation Rental Scams
How to Avoid Buying a Stolen Car in Mexico
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