4 Things Tourists Forget to Pack for Barcelona

Barcelona is a super fun place to visit!

But guess what?

A lot of people forget to bring some really helpful things in their suitcase.

Don't worry—here are four little things that can make your trip even better!

1. A Secure Bag
2. A Travel Adapter
3. Comfortable Walking Shoes
4. Sun Protection
References
Images Sources

1. A Secure Bag

Barcelona is an incredible city that draws millions of visitors each year with its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant street life.

But along with its charm comes a very real problem that too many tourists discover too late: pickpocketing.

It's not a secret, either—Barcelona has developed a reputation over the years as one of the top cities in Europe where pickpocketing is especially common.

The good news is that there's an easy way to protect yourself from becoming a target, and it starts with choosing the right kind of bag.

Tourists often arrive in Barcelona full of excitement and wanderlust, ready to snap photos of Sagrada Família, stroll down Las Ramblas, or enjoy a paella by the sea.

In all this excitement, it's easy to overlook small details like how you carry your belongings.

Unfortunately, that's exactly what experienced pickpockets count on.

They thrive in crowded places—like metro stations, popular markets, and tourist attractions—where distracted visitors are more focused on sightseeing than security.

An open-top tote bag, a backpack hanging loosely on your shoulders, or a wallet in a back pocket is practically an invitation for trouble.

A secure bag can make a world of difference.

It's not just about comfort or style—it's about keeping your belongings safe from skilled and opportunistic thieves.

A well-designed anti-theft bag acts as both a deterrent and a barrier.

It makes your stuff harder to access quickly, which is often enough to discourage a pickpocket from even trying.

In many cases, pickpockets are looking for the easiest win.

If your bag looks complicated to open, or if you're wearing it in a way that keeps it close to your body and in sight, you're much less likely to be targeted.

The most recommended type of secure bag for Barcelona is a crossbody bag that can be worn in front of your body.

This style keeps the bag in your line of sight, and makes it much harder for someone to slip their hand in without you noticing.

A bag that rests against your back or side—especially if it has no zipper or closure—gives thieves a window of opportunity that's simply too tempting.

Crossbody bags also allow you to keep one hand resting on them easily when in crowded situations, offering an extra layer of awareness.

Even better than a basic crossbody are bags designed specifically for travel and anti-theft purposes.

These often include features like locking zippers, hidden compartments, and slash-resistant straps and materials.

Locking zippers can prevent someone from opening your bag quickly without you realizing it.

Some anti-theft bags have small clasps that loop through the zipper pull and attach to a ring or loop, which slows down any attempt to open the bag.

Slash-resistant materials are important too, because another trick pickpockets use is to cut the bottom of a bag or the strap with a blade, letting the contents fall out or allowing them to grab the whole bag in seconds.

With reinforced materials, that kind of attack becomes virtually impossible.

Another good option is a money belt or a hidden pouch that you wear under your clothing.

While it's not practical to keep everything in there—like your phone or sunglasses—it's a great place to store your passport, extra cash, and backup credit cards.

That way, even if something does happen to your main bag, you still have your most essential items safe and sound.

Some travelers also choose neck pouches that hang under their shirt or anti-theft backpacks with hidden zipper placements that lie flat against the back and can't be accessed while wearing them.

To help compare, here's a simple table showing different types of bags and how secure they are for a trip to Barcelona:

Bag Type	Security Level	Risk of Theft
Open Tote Bag	Very Low	Very High
Standard Backpack	Low	High
Crossbody Bag (open top)	Medium	Medium
Crossbody (zipper front)	High	Low
Anti-Theft Crossbody	Very High	Very Low
Money Belt	Very High	Very Low
Neck Pouch (hidden)	Very High	Very Low

It's worth remembering that pickpockets in Barcelona are not just random petty thieves.

Many of them are professionals.

They work in pairs or small groups, use distraction techniques, and are incredibly fast.

Someone might bump into you while an accomplice lifts your phone.

Another might drop a map and start asking for directions while someone else opens your bag.

It can happen even if you think you're being careful—unless your bag is working with you.

People often underestimate the importance of bag security until something goes wrong.

A stolen phone or wallet can quickly turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.

You're not just losing money—you're losing your ID, credit cards, personal data, and time as you deal with police reports and try to cancel accounts.

And in a foreign country, it can feel even more stressful.

One of the biggest challenges is that pickpockets don't look suspicious.

They blend in with the crowd.

Some dress like tourists themselves.

Others pretend to be selling bracelets, roses, or asking for signatures.

While you're deciding whether to say yes or no, their partner might already be lifting something from your bag.

A secure bag makes all of this much harder for them and gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy your surroundings instead of constantly worrying about your stuff.

Even if you've traveled to dozens of cities before without incident, it's still smart to take extra care in places where pickpocketing is known to be a problem.

Think of it like wearing sunscreen in a sunny place—you might not feel the effects immediately, but the protection matters.

Investing in a secure bag before your trip is just a small step that can save you a lot of trouble down the road.

Many popular travel brands now offer stylish anti-theft bags that don't scream "tourist." You can find sleek, fashionable options that match your personal style while still offering strong protection.

Just be sure to look for features like RFID blocking, locking zippers, reinforced straps, and cut-proof materials.

Some also have water-resistant finishes, which is helpful in case of rain or beach trips.

In the end, traveling should be about enjoyment, not anxiety.

Barcelona is full of amazing things to see, do, and eat—and you deserve to experience all of it without constantly checking whether your phone or wallet is still there.

Bringing a secure, anti-theft bag is a smart and simple move that lets you relax, take in the city, and make the most of your time.

After all, the only thing you want to lose in Barcelona is track of time—not your valuables.

2. A Travel Adapter

Traveling to a new country is always exciting, especially when it's somewhere as beautiful and full of life as Spain.

But amid all the planning for sightseeing, food, and packing the perfect outfits, there's one small item that many travelers forget—yet it can cause a huge headache when left behind.

That item is a travel adapter.

It might not seem like a big deal until you land in Spain, reach your hotel, pull out your phone to charge it, and realize the plug doesn't fit.

That's because Spain uses a different plug system than many other countries, and forgetting a travel adapter can leave you completely disconnected.

Spain, including cities like Barcelona and Madrid, uses the Type C and Type F electrical plugs.

Both of these types have two round prongs and operate on a 230V system with a frequency of 50Hz.

This setup is standard across most of continental Europe.

However, this is very different from the plugs and voltage used in places like the United States (which uses Type A and B plugs with a 120V system), the United Kingdom (which uses Type G), and Australia (which uses Type I).

So, if you're traveling to Spain from any of these regions, your chargers and devices will most likely not be compatible with Spanish outlets unless you bring a travel adapter.

Many tourists don't realize this difference until it's too late.

After a long flight, they arrive at their hotel, ready to charge their phones, only to discover that none of their plugs fit the sockets.

If you rely on your phone for directions, taking photos, translation apps, or even just keeping in touch with friends and family back home, not being able to charge it can ruin the start of your trip.

And it's not just phones—laptops, cameras, electric toothbrushes, hair dryers, and other travel electronics can all be affected.

Even just one night without being able to plug in can create a lot of stress, especially if you're in Spain for work or a tight itinerary.

A travel adapter acts as a bridge between your plug and the Spanish socket.

It doesn't change the voltage (we'll get to that in a moment), but it does make sure your plug can physically fit into the wall.

Some universal travel adapters come with slide-out prongs for different countries and are a great investment if you travel often.

Others are small, single-country adapters that are cheap, lightweight, and easy to pack.

Either way, bringing one with you is something you'll thank yourself for later.

Another important thing to consider is the voltage difference.

Spain's electrical system runs at 230 volts, while countries like the US and Canada run on 120 volts.

If your device is not dual voltage—meaning it only supports 120V—it could get damaged or even break if plugged into a Spanish outlet, even with an adapter.

Fortunately, most modern electronics like smartphones, tablets, and laptop chargers are dual voltage.

You can usually check this by reading the fine print on the charger or plug, which will say something like "Input: 100-240V." If it shows that range, you're safe.

If not, you'll also need a voltage converter, which is a different device from a plug adapter.

Here's a quick comparison chart to help explain the differences:

Country	Type	Volt	Adapter Needed	Volt Converter Needed
U.S	A/B	120V	Yes	Yes
U.K	G	230V	Yes	No
Aus	I	230V	Yes	No
Ca	A/B	120V	Yes	Yes
Jp	A/B	100V	Yes	Yes
De	C/F	230V	No	No

As you can see, most travelers coming from outside mainland Europe will need an adapter, and some may also need a voltage converter depending on the device.

It's best to double-check your device specs before you go.

Thankfully, dual voltage has become more common, especially for personal electronics.

You might be wondering if it's possible to just buy an adapter once you get to Spain.

While that's technically an option, it's not a great one.

First, it takes time—you'll need to find an electronics store or convenience shop that sells adapters, and depending on your arrival time, shops might be closed.

Second, buying one locally can be more expensive than bringing one from home.

Lastly, there's no guarantee that what you buy will work with all your devices or even be of good quality.

Some cheaper adapters are poorly made, and the last thing you want is to risk damaging your devices or having something short-circuit during your trip.

Another smart move is to bring more than one adapter.

If you're traveling with a partner, or if you have multiple devices that need charging overnight—like a phone, a watch, a camera, and maybe a power bank—you'll quickly run out of sockets if you only have one adapter.

Bringing two or three small ones or a multi-port USB adapter can help you keep all your devices powered without juggling sockets or taking turns charging.

Many travelers also bring a small power strip that has a European plug on the end and several universal or USB outlets on the strip itself.

This is great for hotel rooms that only have one or two available plugs.

Just plug in the strip, and suddenly you have charging spots for all your devices using only one adapter.

It's especially useful for families or people who travel with work equipment.

To keep things organized, here's a quick list of reasons why a travel adapter is a must-have for Spain:

Spanish outlets use Type C and F plugs, which are not compatible with most non-European devices
Spain's 230V system is different from the 120V used in places like the US and Canada
You won't be able to charge phones, laptops, cameras, or tablets without a proper adapter
Buying one in Spain can be inconvenient, expensive, or result in a low-quality product
A universal adapter works in Spain and many other countries—ideal for frequent travelers
Dual voltage devices don't need a converter, but you should always double-check the label
Bringing more than one adapter or a power strip makes charging multiple devices easier
Being prepared means less stress and no scrambling for solutions after you land

In the end, a travel adapter might be one of the smallest items in your luggage, but it plays a huge role in how smooth your trip goes.

From keeping your phone ready for maps and photos, to making sure your camera is charged for Gaudí's masterpieces, staying connected and powered up is part of enjoying your trip without interruptions.

Don't wait until you're standing in a Spanish hotel room with a dead phone and a useless charger—pack that adapter before you go and keep your travel experience stress-free.

3. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Barcelona is one of those cities that invites exploration at every corner.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque streets, walking becomes more than just a way to get around—it becomes part of the adventure.

From the cobblestone lanes of the Gothic Quarter to the colorful mosaics of Park Güell, the magic of Barcelona is best experienced on foot.

But for many tourists, an unforgettable trip quickly turns painful when they realize their shoes aren't up to the task.

It's easy to underestimate how much walking you'll do, but packing comfortable walking shoes is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Many first-time travelers to Barcelona bring shoes that prioritize fashion over function.

Think strappy sandals, stiff leather loafers, or high-end designer sneakers that haven't been properly broken in.

While these might look great in photos, they can turn a full day of exploring into a painful ordeal.

The city's terrain is varied: some areas are hilly, others are flat but paved with stone or uneven surfaces.

Combine this with the city's warm weather and long sightseeing days, and you've got a recipe for blisters, foot fatigue, and soreness unless your footwear is designed for comfort and endurance.

Barcelona's top attractions are spread out across the city.

You might start your day at La Sagrada Família, then wander through Passeig de Gràcia, visit Casa Batlló, walk through the Gothic Quarter, and end your day with a sunset stroll on Barceloneta Beach.

That can easily add up to 15,000 steps or more.

Even if you take the metro or a taxi here and there, walking is still a huge part of the experience.

Comfortable shoes support your feet during all that activity and help you stay focused on enjoying the sights rather than managing pain or discomfort.

Comfortable walking shoes don't mean you have to sacrifice style.

Many brands offer footwear that looks good and provides solid support for long walking days.

Sneakers with cushioned soles, arch support, and breathable fabric are ideal.

If you're visiting in summer, lightweight mesh sneakers or well-padded walking sandals with secure straps are good alternatives.

The key is to choose shoes that are already broken in—something you've worn on several walks before your trip.

New shoes, no matter how comfortable they claim to be, can rub and cause blisters if worn for the first time during long city walks.

Here's a quick comparison of shoe types and their performance for walking in Barcelona:

Shoe Type	Comfort Level	Not Ideal For
Running Walking Shoes	High	Formal restaurants or events
Fashion Sneakers	Medium	All-day excursions, steep areas
Sandals (Fashion)	Low	Long walks, cobblestone streets
Sport Sandals	Medium High	Cold weather or formal settings
Loafers / Flats	Low	Long distances, hilly areas
Hiking Shoes	Very High	City streets, hot weather

Choosing the right pair of shoes can make a noticeable difference in how you experience Barcelona.

A good walking shoe will absorb the shock from hard pavement, offer arch support to prevent foot fatigue, and have a grippy sole for walking over slippery or sloped surfaces.

Some shoes also feature moisture-wicking linings or ventilation that keeps your feet cool and dry even after hours of walking.

Blisters are a common issue for unprepared tourists.

These painful skin irritations usually occur when friction builds between your skin and your shoe.

They can make walking unbearable and require days to heal.

Preventing blisters starts with proper socks and footwear.

Wearing cushioned socks made of moisture-wicking materials helps reduce the chances of friction.

Also, avoid wearing thin or no-show socks with sneakers, especially if you're walking all day.

Some travelers bring multiple pairs of shoes to rotate between days.

This is a smart strategy for those with sensitive feet or those who want to balance comfort with a few stylish options.

For example, you might wear athletic sneakers during the day and switch to casual slip-ons for dinner.

Having a backup pair also helps if one gets wet or starts to smell after extended wear in hot weather.

Barcelona's hilly areas and staircases can be surprising.

While much of the city is fairly level, areas like Park Güell, Montjuïc, and even some metro stations involve lots of uphill climbs or long staircases.

Shoes with a stable grip and proper support will help you handle these areas with ease.

Uneven steps and slick pavement can become dangerous in poor footwear, especially after a long day when your legs are tired.

You should also consider the weather.

In the summer, heat and sweat can cause shoes to rub more, leading to discomfort.

Lightweight, breathable walking shoes are ideal in these conditions.

In the cooler months, you'll want something slightly warmer and water-resistant, especially if you're caught in the occasional rain.

Again, planning for comfort first will allow you to adjust for the weather while still walking comfortably.

Another often overlooked factor is standing time.

Even when you're not actively walking, you'll be on your feet a lot—waiting in lines for attractions, standing on the metro, or browsing shops and markets.

Standing on hard surfaces without proper cushioning in your shoes can be just as exhausting as walking.

Supportive insoles and shoes with soft midsoles can significantly reduce the strain on your heels and lower back.

To sum it up, here's why you should pack comfortable walking shoes for your trip to Barcelona:

You'll walk several miles each day across various terrains
Poor footwear leads to foot pain, blisters, and overall fatigue
Stylish shoes are often not designed for comfort or long use
Proper walking shoes support posture and reduce joint pain
Broken-in shoes prevent blisters better than brand-new ones
Comfortable shoes allow you to enjoy more of the city stress-free
Warm weather increases the need for breathable, supportive shoes
Slippery or hilly areas require good grip and foot stability
Waiting in lines and standing at attractions adds to foot strain
You can still be stylish—many walking shoes are fashion-forward too

Barcelona rewards those who walk.

There's so much to discover that you simply won't see from a bus or taxi.

Hidden courtyards, street performers, quiet alleys with local tapas spots, and spontaneous views of historic buildings all come alive when you're walking.

But without the right shoes, that magic gets drowned out by aching feet.

By packing a good pair of comfortable walking shoes—something supportive, breathable, and well-worn—you're setting yourself up for a much better, smoother, and more memorable trip.

4. Sun Protection

Barcelona is known for its beauty, culture, and sun-soaked charm.

many tourists picture blazing summer days when they think of sun protection, but in reality, Barcelona's mediterranean climate means sunny skies aren't just a summer feature.

spring, autumn, and even winter can bring clear, blue days with strong sunlight that easily catches visitors off guard.

People often associate sunscreen and sunglasses with beach vacations or hot July afternoons, but forgetting them during off-season trips to barcelona can lead to surprise sunburns and eye strain, quickly putting a damper on sightseeing plans.

the city's light is one of its most defining features.

Even in cooler months, the sky is often bright, and the sun reflects off stone buildings, pavement, and water surfaces like the mediterranean sea.

When the temperature is mild, people dont always feel the need to protect themselves, but UV rays are present whether its 15°C or 30°C.

The sun in Spain doesnt take breaks, and UV radiation levels can still be high even in months like march or October.

if you're walking around all day visiting sights like Park güell, montjuïc, or the waterfront promenade, exposure adds up fast.

many tourists also forget that sightseeing means spending hours outdoors.

from long walking tours through the gothic Quarter to watching street performers at plaça de Catalunya, you're constantly moving between sun and shade.

in areas without tree cover or awnings, even a few hours can be enough to cause mild to moderate sunburn, especially on sensitive areas like the neck, face, or arms.

without sunscreen or protective clothing, this can make your skin feel irritated and tight by evening.

barcelona's sunshine can be deceptive in colder seasons.

In winter, the breeze might feel cool, but that doesnt stop uV rays from reaching your skin.

cloud cover, when present, may only reduce uV levels slightly, and you can still get sunburned on overcast days.

This is particularly important for tourists with fair skin or those coming from regions with less sun exposure.

it's not uncommon for visitors in early spring to return home with red noses and cheeks simply because they weren't expecting the sun to be so strong.

Sunscreen should be one of the first items you pack for Barcelona.

A broad-spectrum sPF 30 or higher is usually recommended for daily use, even outside of beach days.

if you plan to be outdoors most of the day, reapplying every two to three hours is wise, especially if you're sweating or wiping your face often.

Lip balm with sPF can also prevent cracked or burnt lips, another common issue during sunny walks.

here's a list of essential sun protection items for Barcelona, regardless of season:

Broad-spectrum sunscreen (sPF 30 or higher)
Lip balm with SPF
lightweight hat (wide-brim or baseball style)
UV-blocking sunglasses
Long-sleeve light layers or sun-protective clothing
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

sunglasses aren't just a fashion accessory—they're critical for protecting your eyes.

prolonged exposure to uV rays can cause eye strain, headaches, or even long-term damage such as cataracts.

in a bright city like barcelona, the reflective surfaces around you—from stone streets to glass shop windows—intensify the light.

good sunglasses with 100% uVA/uVB protection help shield your eyes and allow you to enjoy scenic views without squinting.

It's also easier to appreciate landmarks like the spires of La Sagrada Família or the details in gaudí's mosaics when you're not battling glare.

hats are another practical and lightweight way to guard against the sun.

whether its a wide-brimmed sunhat or a simple cap, something on your head can make a noticeable difference, especially when walking in open spaces like ciutadella park or the beaches.

hats help protect your scalp, which is often forgotten, and they can keep your face shaded, reducing the need to reapply sunscreen as often.

for children or anyone with very fair skin, a hat is even more essential.

Tourists who rely only on shade or indoor breaks may still end up with sunburn.

That's because Barcelona has many beautiful open-air attractions.

museums like the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya may offer some reprieve, but sites like the magic fountain, the arc de triomf, and the beaches at barceloneta are almost entirely outdoors.

that means even if you're not laying on the sand, just walking from one point of interest to another could result in more sun exposure than expected.

Let's compare the typical UV index and sunshine hours for each season in Barcelona:

season	Avg Daily Sunshine hours	avg UV Index	Risk Without Protection
Spring	6-8 hours	5-7	moderate to high
Summer	9-11 hours	8-10	very high
autumn	5-7 hours	4-6	Moderate
winter	4-6 hours	2-4	Low to moderate

As the table shows, even in winter months, uV exposure is not zero.

Tourists visiting in February or november might think sunscreen is unnecessary, only to get a surprise sunburn on their cheeks or arms after a few hours of sightseeing.

This is especially true in open plazas, parks, or elevated viewpoints like bunkers del Carmel where shade is limited.

another point to consider is comfort.

Skin that has been overexposed to the sun becomes sensitive, red, and irritated.

This can ruin not only your day but possibly your entire trip.

it's hard to enjoy tapas and sangria when your face feels sunburned or your arms sting under your clothes.

plus, sun damage can have long-term effects, including premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer.

protecting yourself today pays off later.

tourists who come prepared tend to enjoy their trip more.

They're not running into pharmacies looking for after-sun gel or hunting for overpriced sunglasses in tourist-heavy shops.

bringing your sun protection gear from home also means you're using products you already trust, which is helpful if youve sensitive skin or specific brand preferences.

In contrast, buying unknown products last-minute in a foreign country might lead to breakouts or allergic reactions.

Let's list common places where you'll need sun protection in Barcelona:

Walking along Las Ramblas
exploring park Güell or Parc de la Ciutadella
Watching the magic fountain at sunset
Touring La Sagrada Família and waiting in lines
Enjoying rooftop bars or terraces
visiting montjuïc Castle or cable car areas
Strolling around Barceloneta Beach and Port vell
Hiking to Bunkers del carmel or Tibidabo

In each of these situations, you're spending significant time in direct or partially filtered sunlight.

That exposure, repeated day after day, adds up and can lead to skin and eye damage if you're unprotected.

tourists who take sun protection seriously, even outside the traditional summer months, are the ones who enjoy their trip without painful surprises.

bringing along a small travel-size sunscreen and folding hat barely takes up space in your bag but offers major benefits.

barcelona's charm is amplified by its beautiful climate, but with great weather comes great responsibility—especially when it comes to protecting your skin and eyes.

No matter what time of year you visit, sun protection should be part of your travel essentials.

Whether you're wandering through historic streets, lounging at the beach, or admiring gaudí's masterpieces, protecting yourself from the sun helps you stay comfortable, safe, and ready to enjoy every second of your trip.

So now you know what not to forget!

Pack smart, have fun, and enjoy every bit of your Barcelona adventure like a pro!