Outsmart thieves in Barcelona | Travel News | Travel

The research found that these scams typically occur in areas of high tourist foot traffic – such as popular landmarks and attractions.

However, those who live in the city have become savvy to the workings of the pickpockets who lurk within the crowds and have passed on some “secret” tips to ensure their belongings stay safe within their possession.

A local shared the advice with pilot Matt and his wife Brooke, who share travel blogs under the username American Travel Family. The couple then passed on the advice in a video which they shared on their TikTok page.

“Locals spilt the secrets on dodging pickpockets in Europe,” they said.

Brooke continued: “Barcelona is one of the most pickpocketed places in Europe and this comes from the locals so I am going to show you what we call the Barcelona walk.”

According to Brooke, a local explained to her that they always walk with their hands in their pockets to “securely hold phones and wallets in pockets.”

The couple shared some additional tips, stating: “Dress Like You Belong. Leave the college t-shirts, baseball caps, and shorts for the home turf. Embrace the local fashion and blend in. The less you look like a tourist, the less you look like a target!”

For Britons, this could also mean avoiding wearing football t-shirts as they might give away your identity as a tourist.

The couple continued: “Invest in a trusty anti-theft bag and keep it close. Lockable zippers and slash-proof materials aren’t just chic, they’re your best buddies in crowded places.”

You can find a number of pickpocket-proof bags on Amazon, while Decathlon also has a few discreet bag options to keep prying hands away.

“Don’t put all your euros in one basket,” added the couple. “Spread out your cash and cards in different hidden pockets. If pickpockets do a magic trick on one, you’ll have your backup stash ready.”