When you are on a bus or even walking down the street you need to keep your bag close! If you have a purse make sure it has a long strap to hang across you and keep it to the front. If you use a backpack you may want to wear it with the bag in the front at times. It is a good idea to put a little bell on your zipper so when you stop to look at something you will hear if someone tries to open your bag. In Xi'an a popular area for pick pocketing is in the city center around the bell tower. The mall and high priced stores are here, put your bag in the front while walking in this area!