Avon and Somerset Constabulary are trying to find Robert Stevens who absconded Leyhill prison and was last seen on Sunday. He was reported missing at 8.30pm.
He was sentenced to six and a half years in prison for a series of commercial robberies in 2011.
The 58-year-old used to live in Weston and police believe he may have returned to the area. Other places he has lived include Bristol, Bath, Taunton and Yeovil.
Stevens, who is known to normally carry his possessions in a rucksack, has previously used small bed and breakfasts, hostels and camp sites according to the police.
He is 5ft 6ins, medium build, clean shaven and has grey hair. He sometimes wears glasses too.
Anyone who spots a man of his description is advised not to approach him but instead call 999, quoting MP759/14 as a reference number.
