Pickpocket Paranoia!

s_b

just because you are a tourist doesnt mean to say you have to look like one or dress like one
melt in is the key i believe to being missed for special treatment

lizzie_dripping

I went to Barcelona last year and, like you, was utterly paranoid about pickpockets.

I used a cross body bag and put my purse in the inside zipped pocket. To make it extra secure I fastened a safety pin through the fabric part of the zip so that it couldn't be undone easily. Too right it couldn't, paying for stuff was a nightmare once I'd faffed around with the bag, the safety pin the zip etc . In the end, I kept about 10euros in my pocket to pay for incidental things so I didn't have to go to my purse and left my cards in the hotel room safe.

However, once there I felt perfectly safe walking around so be sensible but don't let paranoia spoil your trip.

daveyjp

Only take out what you can afford to lose.

astramax151

It's not "over-hyped", Barcelona is notorious for being a pick-pocket hot bed. Be aware of crowded places, especially the trains/subway/stations. I've been there 4 or 5 times with no trouble, but on my last visit I had my wallet lifted from a front, zipped up pocket. It happened on the train back from the F1 race, very crowded + no chance of not making physical contact with others. The Spanish police were, at best, un-helpful + dis-interested. Having spoken to others who have been a few times I was lucky not to have been targetted before. It seems as if it's an accepted hazard of Barcelona. So, be very vigilant + try not to carry too much cash, pre-loaded cards are easier. Having said that, it IS a fun + interesting city, so don't let paranoia spoil your visit (just make sure you've got travel insurance!!)

Mr_Wang

I get where you're coming from, I refuse to cross roads because I've heard you might get run over.
Wont swim because ive heard you can drown. Refuse to fly, go on boats or trains and there is no chance I'd ever walk alone at night.

Hence the reason I've never travelled further than 20 miles from where I live because there isn't a chance on earth I'd risk getting lost.

lcbjcomc

Also be conscious of people distracting you - asking directions etc as this can sometimes be a decoy for their mate to pickpocket whilst you are distracted.

I love Barcelona and certainly wouldn't let it put me off going.

Mr_Wang

lcbjcomc wrote: »

Also be conscious of people distracting you - asking directions etc as this can sometimes be a decoy for their mate to pickpocket whilst you are distracted.

I love Barcelona and certainly wouldn't let it put me off going.

And make sure you take tags off anything you buy and stash duty free well.
The tax man at customs will pick pocket you upon return to the UK.

eamon

There is no "Duty Free" for travellers within the EU therefore nothing for the taxman to pick.