Protecting your belongings at the beach and outdoors

Key rules

• Car: Leave nothing valuable in a parked car, even hidden, and leave the glove box open and empty.
• Passport: Carry a copy or photo to the beach, not the original.
• Bags: Never leave a bag unattended while swimming; take turns in a group.
• Emergencies: Call 112 if you see a break-in or need help on a trail.

The short version

Thieves target busy tourist beaches and car parks because people leave things unattended. Carry little, keep it on your body, and leave nothing in the car. That prevents most losses.

Where theft is most common

Crowded tourist coasts and city beaches in high season are the usual hot spots. Examples include Barceloneta in Barcelona, Malvarrosa in Valencia, the Málaga and Costa del Sol beaches (Torremolinos, Marbella), Benidorm, and beaches in Palma and Ibiza. Beach car parks on the Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca and the Balearics are also known for break-ins. Quieter places are not risk-free, so use the same habits everywhere.

On the sand

• Take only what you need: a little cash, one card, your phone.
• Never leave a bag unattended, even for a short swim. In a group, take turns swimming so someone always stays with the things.
• Use a waterproof pouch or a small bag worn on your body.
• Keep your phone out of sight, not on the towel.
• Keep keys and wallet in a zipped pocket or a secure case.
• Set a screen lock and a phone tracker before you go.
• Leave your passport at your accommodation. Carry a copy or photo instead. The documents list below covers this.

In the car and at trailheads

Do not leave any valuables in a parked car, even hidden in the boot. Take documents, keys and electronics with you. Leave the glove box and the car empty and open, which shows there is nothing to steal. Park in lit, busy areas, lock the car, and never leave a spare key inside. This applies to beach car parks, trailheads and rented cars.

If you see a break-in, call 112 and report it.

On a hike

Leave valuables at your accommodation. Tell someone your route and keep 112 ready for emergencies.

If something is stolen

Report it to the police and tell your bank if cards were taken. Digital copies of your documents make replacing them much easier. The FAQ below answers common questions.

Documents you need

• A copy or photo of your passport to carry instead of the original, which stays at your accommodation.

• Digital copies of your other important documents, stored on your phone or online, in case the originals are lost or stolen.

Frequently asked questions

Which beaches in Spain are most prone to theft?

Crowded tourist beaches and city beaches are the ones most often named, such as Barceloneta in Barcelona, Malvarrosa in Valencia, the Costa del Sol (Torremolinos, Marbella), Benidorm, Palma and Ibiza. The risk is highest in high season.

Are beach car parks safe for leaving things in the car?

No, beach car parks on the Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca and the Balearics are named for break-ins, so do not leave anything in the car. Even items hidden in the boot are not safe.

What should I do if I see a car break-in?

Call 112 and report it, the same emergency number you keep ready on hikes. Do not try to stop the thief yourself.

Should I take my passport to the beach?

No, leave your passport at your accommodation and carry a copy or a photo of it instead. Keep digital copies of your other documents too.