Hi Reader!

It's one of the worst things about Barcelona and what so many people tell me they're worried about: PICKPOCKETS!

Barcelona is generally a very safe city, but pickpockets are a major problem and can sadly ruin a trip to Barcelona if you get targeted by them.

Pickpocketing in Barcelona has caused a lot of issues for tourists and locals alike, but I want to do everything I can to help you avoid being pickpocketed in Barcelona!

Speaking from personal experience, I know how quickly it can happen so I've written a whole blog post with tips to help you beat the pickpockets, including my favourite theft-proof backpacks, hidden pocket clothing and everything else you need to prepare - but here are a few key pointers.

Be Vigilant of Your Belongings All the Time

Keep a close eye on your belongings at all times, and when I say eye I really mean keep a hand on them. Never leave your valuables unattended, even for a moment, especially in busy areas like the metro, La Rambla, Sants train station, the beach, bars and restaurants.

Use a Theft-Proof Bag

Unfortunately, those cute little bags we all love are too easy to open & grab what’s inside; I've even had my purse stolen from a small bag that was right in front of my body on a busy metro. I was an easy target, despite thinking I knew all the tricks!

I'd recommend using a small theft-proof bag like this cross-body bag if you like to keep things light, or get a larger theft-proof bag that can carry more things you might need, like a water bottle and sunscreen.

You can also get some anti-theft zipper clips that you can clip to zips on a bag and attach it to another part of the bag to make it harder to open.

Do not put your Wallet or Phone in your Back Pocket.

I see it every day and I want to tell everybody I see doing this that they are practically begging to get robbed. Front jeans pockets are better, but loose trouser pockets and jacket pockets are also very easy for pickpockets to stick their hand in and pull out a phone or wallet without you noticing.

Don't Leave Items on the Table

Don't leave your phone or wallet on the table while you're eating at a restaurant, it's too easy for thieves to distract you and grab it.

A common trick is to wave a piece of paper over the table and grab the phone from underneath the paper while you're distracted and it's gone before you know it.

Keep Your Bag on Your Lap While Seated

Keep your bag on your lap or in close contact with your body whenever you are sitting down anywhere; on the beaches in Barcelona, in a restaurant or bar, everywhere.

Often in bars there are hooks to hang your bags on, but only do that if you are sat with it between your legs - even if it is right next to you, thieves can take them without you even noticing.

I hope that has helped prepare you for your trip! Check out the blog post for all of my tips to avoid pickpocketing.

Join Our Facebook Group

Our Why Visit Barcelona Travel Tips group is small but growing and you can ask any questions you have about planning a trip to Barcelona, from when to visit, where to stay, how to get there, what to do - anything you can think of!

Of course, you can always hit reply and ask me your questions by email, but the group is a great place to chat about all things Barcelona so I hope to see you there too!

Love, Claire x

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