Following warnings from the Foreign Office that thieves in Spain are targeting hire cars, with Spanish police reporting a spike in tourist-focused crime, car experts are warning that British holidaymakers need to be aware of how criminals are identifying and targeting rental vehicles across EU destinations.
Car thieves have developed sophisticated methods for spotting rental cars, making them prime targets for theft and break-ins. Kazimieras Urbonas, automotive industry expert at Ovoko, one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for used car parts, here explains how these criminals operate and what travellers can do to protect themselves.
With his extensive experience in the automotive sector and deep understanding of vehicle identification systems, Urbonas reveals the telltale signs that make rental cars easy targets and shares practical advice that could save holidaymakers from expensive theft abroad.
How Thieves Identify Rental Cars
Criminals have become experts at spotting rental vehicles, and the signs are often obvious to those who know what to look for. The most common giveaways include visible barcodes stuck to windows or windscreens, rental company stickers, and branded keychains left dangling from the ignition.
“Rental cars practically advertise themselves to thieves,” explains Urbonas. “Those little barcodes and company logos might seem harmless, but they’re like beacons telling criminals: this car belongs to a tourist who probably has luggage, electronics, and valuables inside.”
Foreign number plates are another dead giveaway, particularly in popular holiday destinations where locals quickly spot cars that don’t belong. Even the car’s condition can be a clue, as rental vehicles are typically newer, cleaner, and in better condition than many locally-owned cars.
The Criminal Pattern
Thieves don’t simply target random cars. They tend to follow a calculated approach that makes rental vehicles particularly vulnerable. The typical pattern involves spotting a rental car, following it discreetly, and then waiting for the perfect opportunity when it’s left unattended for extended periods.
“These criminals are patient,” warns Urbonas. “They’ll watch tourists park at beaches, restaurants, or tourist attractions, knowing the car will be empty for hours. That’s when they strike.”
Tourist areas like beaches, popular restaurants, and sightseeing spots become hunting grounds. Criminals know that holidaymakers often leave cars packed with suitcases, cameras, and other valuable items while they explore or relax.
4 Simple Prevention Steps
Urbonas shares tips on how to ensure your rental car isn’t targeted by thieves.
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Minimise Visible Rental Indicators
While you shouldn’t remove company stickers or barcodes (as this may breach your rental agreement), you can take steps to make them less obvious. Keep rental agreements and paperwork hidden in the glove compartment, not on the dashboard. Use sun shades when parked to obscure window stickers from view.
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Store Keys Discreetly
If your rental company keychain has branded tags, keep them in your pocket rather than leaving them dangling visibly from the ignition when parked. This simple step removes an obvious tourist identifier.
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Use Secure Parking Facilities
Whenever possible, park in monitored car parks, hotel parking areas, or well-lit streets with good foot traffic. Avoid isolated spots, even if they’re more convenient. When parking, try to position the car so foreign number plates are less visible from main walkways.
“Paying a few euros for secure parking is nothing compared to the cost and hassle of dealing with theft,” advises Urbonas.
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Never Leave Valuables Visible
Keep all bags, electronics, and personal items completely out of sight. Even charging cables or empty shopping bags can signal to thieves that valuables might be hidden elsewhere in the car. Use the boot/trunk for storage, and ensure nothing valuable is visible through any windows.
Kazimieras Urbonas, automotive industry expert at Ovoko, commented: “Thieves in busy tourist zones have turned rental car targeting into an art form. They know exactly what to look for, and they’re incredibly good at blending into crowds while they scout potential targets. The unfortunate reality is that rental cars make such easy targets because tourists don’t tend to think about basic security measures when they’re in holiday mode.
“The reality is that concealing visual rental clues is one of the easiest and most effective defences you have. It takes just a few minutes to conceal rental indicators and hide documentation, but it can be the difference between enjoying your holiday and spending it dealing with police reports and insurance claims.
“From my experience in the automotive industry, I’ve seen how quickly these situations can escalate. It’s not just the car that thieves are after. They’re also after everything inside it. Passports, laptops, cameras, and luggage can all disappear in minutes. The emotional and financial impact is much greater than just replacing stolen items – it can completely ruin a family holiday.”