John, Of course you don't have to compy. Why should you?
And remember that this is a time when many people go away for short breaks so make sure to check whether your neighbours will be away. If so this is an ideal time to check their garden for any garden tools, kid's toys etc which they may have left out . Easy pickings not to be missed.
Don't let people put you off by saying it is petty thieving . We may be petty thieves but there are a lot of us about.