Barcelona - pickpockets - anti-theft bag needed?

We didn't get to Barcelona during our Spain trip last year, but did see Madrid, Granada, Seville, where pickpockets can be a problem in some areas. For what it's worth, I used this crossbody bag:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NCTZ4HG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It may not be an "anti-theft" bag, but I think the design is helpful in preventing theft because the opening folds down in a flap. So someone would have to lift the flap up all the way (it is magnetized somehow) and then unzip the large oval-shaped flap in order to get inside. I think that amount of activity would definitely be noticed with the bag being on the front of the body.

Anyway, I suppose someone could just cut the strap and run. I think just being aware of your surroundings, like you said, goes a long way. I also remember keeping my hand on the bag all the time too, although I did not see many women doing that, so I felt maybe I was being over-obsessive.

Have fun on your trip!

Nobody needs a special "anti-theft" bag. Nobody. On the other hand, everybody needs an "anti-theft head", always.

"Special anti-theft bags" are a complete waste of money IMHO. If the owner of that device doesn't have their head in the game, then no device is going to protect them. Conversely, if you're on your game, well aware of your valuables, and keenly aware of what's going on around you, then you don't need anything else. "RFID" blocking bags are a complete scam, with zero basis in fact - might as well carry a rabbit's foot, that'll provide the exact same "protection" against RFID skimmers (a non-issue).

Don't waste your money on any of these silly scams, they do nothing except lull you into a false sense of security.

It's really pretty simple. Whatever bags you wear or carry should should be able to be zipped closed (every opening), and the zippers secured with something - I use a little "speedlink" or locking carabeener (available at climbing/outdoor stores eg REI). These are an extra layer of defense for those times you may be in a crowd, ie in a packed subway. But mostly what you need is to simply pay attention. It's really not complicated.

Those are all very nice bags with large enticing zippers. A skilled pickpocket, and there are many in Barcelona, can be in and out of one of those in seconds and you will only know the next time you go to accesss your bag. Maybe the anti-theft bags give you a little more time. I don’t think what bag you carry matter as long as there is nothing in it you are not prepared to lose. That idea of a smaller bag at night with money cards, phone, etc. strikes me as a particularly bad idea. Get a money belt you wear under your clothes for money, cards, hotel key, etc.

Sherrelle, you're going to get so many different takes on your question that your head will probably spin! The "how to secure my valuables" query always goes umpty different ways as we all have our own methods as well as comfort levels with the risk of theft.

My own take? I think you're taking way too many different bags to begin with, and I would personally never, ever trust an unsecured shoulder bag for credit cards, large amounts of cash or passports. We don't yet travel with phones abroad (use an ipad or small itouch for communication via email only) and I don't know as I'd even trust an unsecured bag for one of those if my life was on the thing, if you catch my drift.

We do have a Pacsafe crossbody bag (unisex design) that we've been using abroad since 2007 and has been a good solution for us. We don't care about RFD blocking or slash-proof straps/sides as much as the locking capability/design. Those locks would significantly slow down light fingers, and I think those fingers would go for much easier targets to begin with (there are many out there) before bothering us. Anyway, it has worked well and either one of us can carry it. Even with a Pacsafe or similar, you want to practice situational awareness but that doesn't mean walking around with the thing clutched to the chest, either.

My husband usually shoulders that one and I have a lightweight, non-locking bag for stuff that thieves don't care about and/or could easily be replaced. I do carry my camera in it but don't worry about it much: pickpockets are generally after more valuable things like cash, smartphones and cards. It's just heavy enough that I'd feel it the minute it was lifted, too.

For daily cash/cards, I pin a small, zippered pouch under my waistband. We leave extra cards and bulk of the cash in the safe at the hotel, and DH carried his daily valuables in the Pacsafe. Splitting up the important stuff so it's not ALL on either one of us or not in the same PLACE on either of us is another safety method.

A lot of folks wouldn't dream of traveling abroad without moneybelts but they don't work for us - we find them uncomfortable, and they aren't meant to be accessed much during a sightseeing day anyway - thus the alternate method. There's no right or wrong as long as it does the job.

I've never been to Spain, but if you are used to the urban areas, you likely don't need an anti-theft bag, but it won't hurt, depending on your system. I think these bags are slowly getting cuter and I don't find them heavy or expensive as some people claim. I'm very much a bag addict and have many... I have gravitated over time to travelon products. Because I'm scared? No. When traveling, I've never felt my important stuff to be in danger as my purse is always attached to me; I can't accidentally leave it behind. That being said, never say never. I use two travelon bags, presently, at home and abroad due to their organization and the locking zippers. Many people use their own systems to lock their zippers on bags, but I find this ugly and awkward (I've tried it). YMMV. Anyone can be distracted for the second it takes to get into a bag so I find the locking zippers comforting, whether it is on my local Boston subway or in Europe on a bus. I live in an urban area and take lots of photographs so I can be distracted, I suppose. Here is my system:

This purse has everything of importance in it that I might use during the day (CC/PP) and I carry it cross body all the time. It's on and forgotten so to speak, here or abroad. I'm not one to carry a large bag unless I need my camera. When in transport abroad, I do have two batches of financial information attached to me...been sewing a lot of infinity scarves with hidden pockets these days for that as my clothes don't have useable pockets, but that's another post.

This bag is what I've been using for my camera when it is not in my hand. It is easier for me to carry than a heavy, large cross body if I'm out all day with the camera. Again, my camera is usually in my hand unless in transport. This is also the bag that I bring on the plane with everything I can't live without. It is the perfect size for the BA underseat bag. I usually check my carryon sized bag. I have also buried my small purse, attached, in this backpack on occasion.

My conclusion: the system you to which you adhere is more important than the bag as long as you have a certain level of deterrents for wandering hands. IMO. The anti-theft bag adds that locking level that I don't need to invent. However, I love how organized they are! I also don't like moneybelt items and don't use one 95% of the time so this is one of my money belt items these days. I am more afraid of misplacing my items so that is why I have a system to which I can stick. The balance of the time the backup items stay in my suitcase at the hotel. Just don't put all your eggs in one basket, but you know that as you are an experienced traveler. I also travel solo often so it is important for me to feel secure at all times. As far as my daily money is concerned, I've never lost it and I don't waste time worrying about it as it is not important in the scheme of things. I'm more concerned with my cards and passport re: loss or pickpocketing.

PS, LOL. I'd never listen to a man about what bag to carry.

The location that is safest from pickpockets is one that they cannot see or access, such as a money belt worn under your clothes. In your more accessible bags, don't carry more than you need for the day and could afford to lose. See more at https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/theft-scams/outsmarting-pickpockets.

@Sherrelle... don't fret about pickpockets... Barcelona is a safe city which has an undeserved reputation. There's a lot of hearsay in many posts. Not saying it does not exist, I'm saying that statistically is not much worse than say Rome or Paris in summer. If it interests you, check post #9 here: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187497-i44-k8582706-Scams_safety_and_walking_around_Barcelona-Barcelona_Catalonia.html#67424708

Taking some basic precautions is worthy as pick-pocketing is a phenomenon much more common in Europe than in the US. And Barcelona is one of the hot spots in Europe.

Situational awareness, as some have mentioned, is certainly worthwhile. But tourists tend NOT to be aware of their surroundings because they are paying attention to sites, directions and street activities. Tourists are easily distracted and most pick-pockets have effective systems to cause distractions. Holding a bag close or a hand in the pocket with your wallet, common suggestions, won't work because the thief will simply cause a distraction or action that gets you to move your hand or bag. They usually work in teams.

Standard purses, bags, and wallets in pockets are insecure because it is easy for a pick-pocket to get in them without you even being aware. They are professionals at this.

The value in anti-theft purses is not the straps that can't be cut or RFID blockers, but in having secure inner pockets and outer closures. Even if a thief can see your purse or bag, and cause a distraction, it doesn't do any good if they can't easily access it. If you have a bag or purse that has secure inner pockets, then don't spend money for all the other unnecessary bells and whistles. Some people secure zippers with twist ties or other means.

A waist money belt is only needed if you don't have another means of securing your valuables. Or if you are the type to take your otherwise secure bag off your shoulders and set it down or over the back of your chair. The downside to a secure bag is you have to always have it on you when in public - always.

Please don't think that Barcelona is a den of thieves. You won't be accosted at every turn and likely won't experience any theft attempt. But the risks are real enough to take these basic cautions.

Seriously, you are over thinking this.

Thanks everyone who answered and gave great advice and eased my mind (that would not be you Caro, seriously why even take the time to answer with that statement?). I have figured out that a small carabiner looped through the double zippers works well on the backpack and crossbody bag that I have. It's quite a pain for me to undo each time I want access but it will slow down a potential pickpocket. Also, I always put money and cards in the inside zipper pocket that lies against my body. I can't see using a money belt while wearing a dress. And I will drill into my daughter's head about her phone kept out of her pocket (because, teenagers). As I am used to big cities, I can't imagine that Barcelona will be much different. Stay alert, especially on public transportation or in big crowds or lines and don't leave belongings unattended. On that last tip my daughter left her purse with her phone in it hanging on the back of her chair at a restaurant (just wrong on so many levels!) while we were in Antibes, France. She didn't realize it until later that evening and the restaurant was closed. We woke early, arrived when they opened for breakfast and wouldn't you know, the purse was still on the chair. :)

I was in Barcelona two years ago. While window shopping at the Arena Mall, an old Chinese lady with a baby approached me from behind in a suspicious way. Thankfully, I could see her from the reflection. I gave her a stern look and she backed away.

I agree with that you just need to be vigilant and take precautions.

Read my other post

If you like purses, then Spain is a great place to shop!!!!! I bought a few cute bags made in Spain at half the cost in US.

I do like purses; thank you!

I used a Travelon messenger bag in Europe (including Barcelona) in 2015 and again last month. My wife has a purse and a backpack by the same company. They were great. Not a problem anywhere (London, Paris, Giverny, San Sebastian, Barcelona, Lisbon, Porto, Granada, Almunecar, Malaga, Estepona, Lagos and Coimbra.

We are two men who were traveling through Sanz train station in Barcelona a few years ago. My companion carries a cross-body man-bag (fairly small), that was picked. They got his wallet.

This year, a friend met us near Barcelona. He thinks he was almost picked at Sanz, so be careful.

It's confusing because, as tourists, we're often not sure exactly where we're going and we can be oblivious to other people's scams when we're carrying/lugging/schlepping backpacks, luggage and bags. So, I think that being aware of how pick pockets work (they often work in groups, one person will distract you by bumping you or asking you a question or to buy something, another will do the deed), and taking precautions is advised.

I'm not sure a theft-proof bag is the answer, though. Maybe just luggage/bags that aren't flopping around with openings would work. Make sure your bags are closed and secured. I carry a front pocket wallet, but no travel wallet under my clothes.

good luck! Buena suerte!

I have this bag and love it, I didn’t really care about slash proof and RFID but I got it because I can easily hook it to the table at meals or chair. I fit everything in it including a water bottle.

https://www.travelonbags.com/anti-theft/anti-theft/womens/anti-theft-heritage-hobo-bag

You're right, as tourists we do stand out with bags and maps (either paper or on a phone) and stopping and looking at everything - which is what we are there to do!

The messenger bag - did it have a zipper or just a flap? I settled on using a purse that I already have that can be worn crossbody https://www.mzwallace.com/shop/products/2880108/black-oxford-small-sutton/1758.html. It has a zipper and I figured out how to use the key ring clip to hook the zippers together so it can't be easily opened. And I will keep my money and cards in the inside zipper pocket that is against my body. My camera, guide book, maps, phone will be loose in the big compartment. I will also use a small backpack on our day trip to Montserrat with a carabiner to hook the zippers close. I'm still at a loss about what to carry at night, out to dinner, to the concerts. I don't want a large bag to carry just my phone, credit card, some money and hotel key.

While traveling on plane and trains with luggage I am still debating to get the PacSafe backpack or not. I did figure out how to use a carabiner to close the two zippers on the backpack I have. My camera and laptop will be in there and I'm really concerned about losing my laptop because my daughter's was stolen in South Africa (from the car) and it was such a pain to get a new one. But shouldn't I really be worried about the laptop and other backpack contents only if I put it down unattended (which I won't do)? I mean I can't imagine someone trying to take out a laptop right from under me, it seems like it would be pretty difficult. I would think the goal there was would be to steal the whole backpack. I won't have my wallet, passport and phone in there - they will be in my crossbody bag or fanny pack worn across my chest.

What about ID? I usually carry my US driver's license around in case I need ID and leave my passport in the hotel room safe. Is that needed? I would imagine that I need some sort of ID to walk around, yes? Driver's license, 1 credit card and cash - that's all I have in my wallet.

Pickpockets are great at fishing stuff out of backpacks. Many examples, some with pictures, on the Internet. In crowded places wear your backpack in the front. Looks geeky until you see many folks doing the same. Leave your laptop in locked luggage. As for drivers license-mine never sees the light of day once I leave the US unless I’m renting a car. Carry a copy of your passport if you think you might need an ID. I can’t recall ever needing one. Now, my final word on Barcelona and pickpockets: despite what Enric (a splendid ambassador for all things and places Catalan) and others have said, Barcelona is pickpocket central in Europe. Pickpockets are pretty much extinct in the US so US city skills that keep you from getting mugged won’t get you far in Europe. This (Spain) was the only RS tour where the guide had a code word for pickpocket so she and other group members could use it to alert others. She said we would probably need it in Barcelona, and did we ever! While situational awareness will get you so far, these folks are quick and skilled. One glass of wine or a cocktail and your situational awareness skills are shot. One bump, one brush, and your stuff is gone before you can react. All the cinching of zippers, etc. may deter some, delay others. But unless its in a money belt under your clothes you may lose it.

Curious: how do you wear a money belt and retrieve your money in a discreet way to pay for something? Especially women wearing dresses?

I was at an outdoor mall yesterday (in Los Angeles) and a woman had her tiny purse on the (patio) table, on the outside part. The restaurant was near the mall exit to a busy street so anyone could have taken it, ran into the street and never been caught. Blew my mind how comfortable people are. There may be less pickpockets in the US, but this could have been an easy take and run.

I keep pocket change, around 50 Euro in my pocket to pay for gelato, things like that. In a restaurant when the check comes I go to the restroom and retrieve my credit card from my money belt, I pay the check, then back to the restroom and put back the credit card. A bit of a hassle but having nearly lost a credit card in my pocket to a pickpocket on the Athens metro, I do it. Now, others would argue it’s no big deal from a liability standpoint if you lose a credit card, and they are right. It’s the hassle of having to report it and getting a replacement when you are traveling that I want to avoid.

I pay the check, then back to the restroom and put back the credit
card. A bit of a hassle....

And that's why I don't use moneybelts. Personal preference, I know.

I think we urban dwellers are just more comfortable in general than rural dwellers traveling with our purses, etc. Although, I haven't done a scientific survey...might be a good post survey. I haven't done a study, but I bet the 'everything in the money belt' group are more rural dwellers because the urban experience is more frightening to them.

I tend to be in Kathy's camp. I don't worry about theft. My organization is more about misplacing items. The only time I really worry about having everything on me is when traveling solo on the airplane when needing to use the toilets.

Sherrell, You're used to large cities. Your purse and backpack seem fine. Enjoy your trip.

Lifelong urban dweller here. The implication that those who rely on money belts and the like are somehow not equipped to deal with the urban environment is inaccurate and insulting. My brother in law, born and raised in Philly was convinced that no pickpocket could possibly get to him he was so aware. Took the metro in Athens within a few hours of arrival. From three different pockets he lost his wallet with all of his cash and cards, his cell phone and his ear buds.

@Alan, I would imagine it's not a matter of being "equipped" but rather about being "familiar with" or "aware of". Those of us living in big cities are probably more aware of the potential danger of being pickpocket or assaulted -just because we live with it day in day out.

While certain cities have a lower crime rate than others (ie. my own Barcelona), crime does still exist so one tends to -almost in an automatic way- to look out for potential dangers when walking the streets and prevent becoming a victim of it. And yet, many residents fall victim anyway, so that indeed tells that (1) crime does not "target tourists" but anyone that can potentially be a target and (2) even with previous awareness, certain types of crimes are difficult to avoid.

Still, I am not too fond of James Bond-like gadgets: they're uncomfortable to use for the most part (I'd like to see you trying to get your cash from whatever hole/hidden pocket you stashed it while in the line of the supermarket, LOL!). Also, in Summer, the less equipment you carry the better as it's extremely hot to put on layers of unnecessary "stuff".

Opinions, of course, are like b**ts: everybody has his own and they're all equally valid. Still, my two cents for those visiting:

• You're visiting a civilized city, not a war zone, mentalize yourself!
• Common sense is normally your friend and the ability to prevent your ally.
• Barcelona has one of the lowest violent crime rates among the cities of its size in Europe. Pickpocketing is probably the "gravest" crime you're bound to encounter if any. And even so, the prevalence of this type of crime is low, regardless of the alarmists out there. Stats confirm this.
• Still, this is a city and crime does exist, so apply some common sense when out and about.
• Don't believe Mr Google... anyone can publish anything without being fact-checked.
• Everybody can be a target, nobody is out to get "you" in particular -nor your race, or nationality!
• This city has residents from over 120 countries, different races and different religions, each one with his own cultural traits, his attire, etc... there's, in general terms, no "looking like a local" nor "looking like a tourist".
• Tourists are spotted instead by their attitudes ---locals don't normally go gawking looking up :)-- and the places they tend to visit most.
• The most popular cities in the EU have an ongoing problem, we know it and authorities are working on it: mobility across the EU facilitates, as well, the mobility of crime. It's well known and documented the existence of gangs of petty thieves -whole families!- roaming the major cities doing the "bizz", when Police pressure becomes untenable in one, they move to another -preferably in a different judicial system so as to hinder any ongoing procedure against them.
• While "local" crime also exists obviously, it's been seen dramatic drops on pickpockets when these gangs move to a different city. And the opposite, of course, for those cities "receiving" these guests.

very well put Enric

... the less equipment you carry the better ...

I only carry what I can afford to lose. A credit card, a debit card, and cash for one day, in my pants' front pocket. My backup cards and passport stay in the hotel. If I should be pickpocketed, I say "Shucks." I won't let paranoia or such loss spoil my trip.

Don't believe Mr Google... anyone can publish anything without being fact-checked.

Add TA, this and other forums to the list. Barcelona is crowned the pickpocket capital of the world, first by TA and referenced elsewhere repeatedly. The "study" was most likely based on the numbers being reported, but not by the percentage of the ~1.5 million residents and the annual 30+ million visitors. The probability is the key, and missing.

See Sherrelle? Told you you'd get so many different opinions that your head would probably spin! 😵

It really comes down to personal comfort, IMHO? What method will make one feel comfortable enough, secure enough, not to worry versus just enjoy the sights. That comfort level is different for different people and can depend on what they're used to and/or how much they've traveled.

We can say that one does need this or doesn't need that all day but in the end it's a very personal decision. T'aint much different than individual must-do and can-skip sightseeing lists, eh? We can only tell someone what works for each of us and they'll need to choose. There are many right answers and no wrong ones except making it very easy to become a victim! Shoot, Rick himself was pickpocketed (in Paris) last year and chalked it up to his own carelessness. Go figure.

So, moneybelt, neck wallet, belt wallet, Travelon/Pacsafe, secured interior pockets or whatever, do whatever makes you able to take your mind off your valuables and eyes on all the fascinating things in front of them.

I've traveled all over Europe with just one bag, this cross-body bag from Lululemon. Have not had any problems. I am always on the look out for any unusual activity. My husband always has a money belt on and just carry enough money for the day in a small zipped pouch. I forego the esthetics and have one bag only. This Lulumon bag hold more than you can imagine, travel book, water bottle, sm wallet, an umbrella, lotion, sun glasses, point and shoot camera. It has one zipper and is worn across my body. It does not get heavy and I'm very petite .https://shop.lululemon.com/p/bags/Festival-Bag-II/_/prod800211?color=0001

Have a nice trip! Yeman

LOL Kathy, you are correct on many different opinions! And yes, what gives the wearer a level of comfort is in fact key because if you are comfortable then you are confident and less likely a "mark" for a pickpocket.

Yeman, I like that Lululemon bag. If I am near a store before my trip I will check that you.

Thanks Enric for the Barcelona tips!

And yes, what gives the wearer a level of comfort is in fact key because if you are comfortable then you are confident and less likely a "mark" for a pickpocket.

Really? What research supports that assumption? I’m sure Rick Steves was comfortable and looked confident in Paris but he was pickpocketed. Why? He was not wearing his money belt! Here is the link to his blog: https://blog.ricksteves.com/blog/pickpocketed-paris/

I haven't done a study, but I bet the 'everything in the money belt'
group are more rural dwellers because the urban experience is more
frightening to them.

I don't think there is any validity to this whatsoever. I know people that are highly experienced world travelers and urban dwellers and have been victims, or have had attempts, of theft while in Europe. I suppose American city dwellers might think they are more able to handle themselves in a city, but pickpocketing just isn't a major issue in the US. And most of the people I know that travel to Europe, and are experienced at it, take some kind of precaution to protect against pickpockets.

Pickpocket theft is a real thing and certain places in Europe, Barcelona included, are notorious for it. And there is a line between caution and hysteria that is easily crossed on a travel forum like this. But people should be cautious and be aware of the risks.

It seems that the pickpockets aren't the dangerous ones. On Wednesday an American tourist from Miami was attacked by some street vendors when he tried to help a woman being harassed.

As is the case everywhere, the opposition party is trying to make a mountain out of a mole hill to get the incumbent out. They have used this and some other incidents to call for her resignation.

I really recommend this backpack its got the zip at the back so people can't unzip while your walking around!

https://safebackpacker.com/products/anti-theft-backpack-travel-waterproof-bag

Take a look at the Youtube videos by Wolters World on pickpockets and Barcelona