Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and inspiring cities in Europe. Its streets shine with Gaudi architecture, its beaches invite you to stroll, and its tapas bars invite you to spend long evenings with friends. But behind this idyllic picture lies a shadow that every tourist should keep in mind: Barcelona is among the most notorious cities in Europe for petty theft.
Barcelona is one of those cities that you simply have to see at least once in your life. A stroll through the colorful Park Güell, a photo in front of the magnificent Sagrada Família, an afternoon siesta on Barceloneta beach, an evening stroll along La Rambla or a sunset from the top of the El Carmel bunkers – the city offers something for everyone.
But behind this idyllic picture lies a shadow that every tourist should keep in mind: Barcelona is among the most notorious cities in Europe in terms of the number of petty thefts. You can find some statistics on how high the numbers are for reported thefts alone HERE
In this article, we'll give you specific tips on how to protect yourself – and show you how smart backpacks and accessories can be your best companion in Barcelona.
🚨 Pickpocketing in Barcelona – a real problem
According to a number of travel forums and news sources, Barcelona regularly tops the charts for the most pickpocketing in Europe. The most common cases are:
- thefts of backpacks in the subway;
- "friendly" patting and touching to distract attention;
- thefts in restaurants and cafes (especially of bags left on a chair or table);
- beaches – where people often leave their belongings unattended;
- around major landmarks where people are sightseeing, busy taking pictures or reading information
- on busy streets - there are many cases when you are walking calmly and looking at the majestic buildings, a scooter passes by you and you don't realize when your bag is no longer there.
📌 Common tactic: while you're admiring the architecture or choosing a souvenir, someone "accidentally" bumps into you, another distracts you with a question, and a third one is already with your phone in hand.
✅ How to protect yourself: Practical tips for smart travel
Here are some tried and tested ways to reduce the risk of trouble:
- Carry your bag or backpack in front, especially on the subway or in crowds;
- Don't put your phone or wallet in your back pocket;
- Use bags and backpacks with hidden zippers or anti-theft designs;
- Avoid displaying expensive equipment and accessories in public places;
- Never leave your belongings on the beach unattended – even for 2 minutes;
- Be careful when someone "accidentally" bumps into you or starts a conversation on the street.
👇Smart solutions from us: Why not take a risk?
In our online store smartbag.bg you will find smart solutions that are ideal for such destinations:
🎒 Backpacks with hidden zippers and pockets – prevent thieves from accessing the main compartment. Here are a few choices:
- Smartbag Airpack Backpack - features a built-in TSA lock for locking zippers, which protects the contents from unwanted access. Hidden pockets and discreet zippers contribute to higher security.
- Mark Ryden Chicago - your valuables are protected thanks to the hidden back pocket and the intelligent zipper locking system. It is suitable for busy and busy spaces.
-Tgernu RFID - features a built-in zipper lock, as well as integrated RFID protection that protects card chips and devices from data theft
🧷 Wallets with RFID protection and tracking option – protection against contactless card scanning. Check out our C-Secure and Dodensha 3 or Dodensha 4 models.
And our newest addition , the Find Easy Tracking card - which can be placed in your wallet - gives you access via an app to track your wallet's location in real time.
🎧 Shoulder or crossbody bags worn on the front – less noticeable and much harder to steal - here we would recommend:
- Tigernu Chest - has all the protection features - RFID function, hidden back pocket for documents or cards, as well as a TSA lock for zippers, so that no one can access its contents.
That's not all - most of our Smart Backpacks offer additional protection features. You can check them out on our website HERE .
Still, don't let theft ruin your trip. With the right preparation and the right accessories, Barcelona can be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life. Travel smart, travel in style, and always stay one step ahead of the dangers lurking.
