I don't mess around. I'm careful and structured when I'm out in public... I might be a little predictable when it comes to getting into the car, but I have the time low enough that it doesn't matter
If I'm hauling a cart full of bags, my head stays up and alert more than down and looking at whatever I'm loading. The "other side" is less likely to go after someone who is paying attention to their surroundings. Once that's done, taking the cart back to the corral leaves time to scan my surroundings again, then it's back to the routine above.
My technique for keeping myself alert is constantly trying to see everyone before they see me, regardless of where I am (stores work well for this). When I miss someone, I give myself a good slap on the hand as punishment. Just don't do that in front of people or.... you know.