Investing in an anti theft travel bag is a smart move for any traveler, whether you’re exploring bustling city streets or relaxing in a tranquil resort. These specialized bags are designed to protect your valuables from theft, giving you peace of mind wherever you go.
Unlike regular bags, Anti Theft Travel Bags incorporate unique security features. They are typically crafted from durable, lightweight, and high-performance materials and boast zippered compartments that are harder for thieves to access discreetly.
Key features of the best anti theft travel bags include slash-resistant materials, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking panels. These features work together to prevent common theft tactics like bag slashing, zipper tampering, and digital skimming.
As a seasoned traveler, I understand the importance of security on the road. For city explorations, my go-to choice is often the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag. Its spacious design accommodates all my essentials, including a dedicated water bottle compartment, and it’s packed with built-in security features. This bag truly deserves the top spot. Let’s explore a range of anti theft travel bags that have impressed us with their security, functionality, and style.
Top Picks for the Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags
- Best Anti-Theft Travel Bag Overall: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
- Best Budget Anti-Theft Bag: Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack
- Best Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag: Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Square Crossbody
- Best Anti-Theft Purse: Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody with Locking Clasps Strap
- Best Anti-Theft Backpack: Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack
- Best Anti-Theft Waist Pack: Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack
- Best Anti-Theft Sling Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag
- Best Anti-Theft Neck Wallet: Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Neck Wallet
Choosing the Right Anti-Theft Travel Bag
When selecting anti theft bags for your travels, prioritize features like hidden compartments for discreet storage, lockable zippers to deter pickpockets, RFID-blocking panels to protect against digital theft, and slash-resistant straps and materials for enhanced security. Durable materials like heavy-weight nylon are often preferred. Crossbody styles are generally considered more secure compared to shoulder bags as they are worn closer to the body. For travelers, practical organization and comfortable carrying are also crucial aspects of anti theft travel bags. Let’s delve into the details of our top recommendations.
Best Anti-Theft Travel Bag Overall: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
Image: Front view of the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag in black, showcasing its crossbody style and zippered compartments.
Travelon Messenger Bag
Why it stands out: The Travelon Messenger Bag is a favorite among frequent travelers for its reliable security and practical design. Its crossbody style and adjustable strap ensure it sits securely against your body, minimizing vulnerability to theft.
Constructed with robust, cut-resistant 900-denier nylon, including the strap, this bag offers excellent protection against slashing. Locking zippers and RFID-blocking pockets provide crucial security for credit cards and passports, guarding against both physical and digital theft. A unique lockdown strap allows you to securely attach the bag to furniture in public spaces, preventing grab-and-go theft.
Beyond security, this bag excels in organization. A convenient side mesh pocket holds a water bottle, and the interior is surprisingly spacious, easily accommodating essentials like a light jacket or sweater.
Things to consider: While highly secure, this bag is not water-resistant. For valuables sensitive to moisture, consider using a waterproof pouch inside the bag for added protection in wet conditions.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 9 x 12.5 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Material: 900D nylon, polyester
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 4.5L
Best Budget Anti-Theft Bag: Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack
Ambor Travel Laptop BackpackImage: Angled view of the Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack in grey, highlighting its minimalist design and side profile.
Ambor Laptop Backpack
Why it’s budget-friendly and secure: Priced under $30, the Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack offers remarkable anti theft features and organizational capabilities for budget-conscious travelers. The main compartment secures with metal zippers and a three-digit combination lock, enhancing protection against unauthorized access. The front pocket features double zippers that can be further secured with zipper clips for added security. The backpack is constructed from tear-resistant material, according to the manufacturer, increasing its durability.
The Ambor backpack presents a classic, understated aesthetic. Internally, it boasts numerous pockets, zippered compartments, and a padded laptop sleeve for organized packing. A concealed slide pocket on the back provides quick access to items without opening the main compartment, and a luggage strap adds convenience for airport travel.
Keep in mind: While offering several anti theft features, this backpack does not include RFID-blocking pockets. Travelers concerned about digital theft should consider separate RFID-blocking sleeves for their cards and passports.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 5 x 19 x 12 inches
- Weight: 1.6 lbs
- Material: Nylon and polyester
- RFID Protection: No
- Volume: 21L
Best Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag: Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Square Crossbody
Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Square Crossbody
Image: Close-up of the Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Square Crossbody in black, showcasing its compact square shape and security features.
Pacsafe Crossbody
Why it’s the safest crossbody: Crossbody bags are inherently safer anti theft bags, and the Pacsafe Citysafe CX takes security to the next level with advanced features.
Both the bag’s exterior and lining incorporate stainless-steel wire mesh panels, providing robust cut resistance. The adjustable strap is also wire-reinforced, further preventing slash-and-grab theft. The main compartment includes a zippered pocket and ample space for daily essentials, along with a padded sleeve suitable for a small camera or a 7-inch tablet. Zippers are equipped with hooks designed to lock onto a front metal loop, and the bag can be secured to a chair for added security in public settings.
Consider this: Some users find the frequent locking and unlocking of the front zippers slightly inconvenient, but this is a trade-off for enhanced security.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 2.6 x 8.3 x 6.1 inches
- Weight: 0.5 lbs
- Material: Recycled polyester and nylon
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 2.4L
(Explore these 9 hands-free crossbody bags for more options.)
Best Anti-Theft Purse: Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody with Locking Clasps Strap
Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody with Locking Clasps Strap
Image: Elegant Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody purse in a light color, showing its sleek design and metallic strap details.
Arden Cove Crossbody
Why it’s a stylish and secure purse: For occasions requiring a more formal purse that doesn’t compromise on security, the Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody is an excellent choice. This elegant accessory comes in various colors and combines style with essential anti theft features.
Crafted from smooth, waterproof nylon with a slash-resistant lining, this purse offers both protection and sophistication. It features well-organized compartments, including RFID-blocking card and cash slots in the front pocket, and a spacious main compartment with pockets for a smartphone and passport. Both compartments are secured with locking zippers.
Personalization is a key feature, with options to customize the bag with different straps, including cut-resistant chains. Protective studs on the base prevent wear and tear, adding to the purse’s durability.
Keep in mind: This purse is designed for essential daily items. For larger items, a bigger anti theft bag might be necessary.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 8.5 x 6.5 inches
- Weight: 1.2 lbs
- Material: Nylon and vegan leather
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 1.9L
Best Anti-Theft Backpack: Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack
Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack
Image: Front view of the Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack in black, showcasing its compact size and multiple pockets.
Baggallini Backpack
Why it’s a great anti-theft backpack for everyday use: The Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack is compact, lightweight, and water-resistant, making it ideal for daily use and travel. It’s equipped with multiple anti theft features for secure travel. The straps and interior panels are reinforced to resist cuts, and a zippered back pocket features RFID-blocking material. The main compartment is secured with locking zippers.
Organization is a strong suit of this backpack. It includes numerous card slots, smartphone and tablet pockets in both the main and back compartments, and two side pockets for water bottles.
Things to note: This backpack is not designed to hold a laptop. Also, the front pocket zippers do not lock, so keep valuables in the main compartment or back pocket.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 10 x 13 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Material: Material details not available
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 7.5L
(Discover more top backpacks beyond hiking.)
Best Anti-Theft Waist Pack: Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack
Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack
Image: Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack in black, worn as a waist pack showing its compact and secure design.
Pacsafe Sling Pack
Why waist packs are a secure option: Waist or hip packs, like the Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack, are excellent anti theft choices because they are worn close to the body and can be discreetly worn even under a jacket.
This Pacsafe sling pack is made from water-resistant recycled polyester and includes an RFID-blocking pocket for digital security. The strap is designed to resist cutting, and it features a double-locking buckle for enhanced physical security.
The interior offers a small wall pocket and a main compartment suitable for essential items. For extra security, the zippers can be locked using a clip on the sling’s side.
Things to consider: This sling pack is designed for minimal essentials. It lacks extensive internal organization for keeping smaller items neatly arranged.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.1 x 3.4 inches
- Weight: 0.4 lbs
- Material: Recycled polyester
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 2.5L
Best Anti-Theft Sling Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag
Image: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag in a neutral color, displayed on a white background to highlight its features and shape.
Why it’s ideal for on-the-go security: The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag is a great mid-size option, larger than a hip pack but smaller than a backpack. Weighing under a pound, it offers a spacious interior capable of holding a tablet, book, travel documents, and daily essentials. It features an RFID-blocking compartment and multiple zippered pockets for organization and security.
Constructed from polyester reinforced with slash-resistant panels, this sling bag provides robust protection. The strap is made with dual sets of cables and padding for comfort and security. All exterior zippers are lockable, and it includes a system to secure the bag to furniture.
Keep in mind: While it has RFID-blocking features, it’s not entirely RFID-blocking throughout the entire bag.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 7 x 14 x 4 inches
- Weight: 0.9 lbs
- Material: Polyester
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 5.5 lbs
(Explore 11 of our favorite fanny packs perfect for travel.)
Best Neck Wallet: Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Neck Wallet
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag
Image: Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Neck Wallet in beige, showing its slim profile and adjustable neck cord.
Eagle Creek Neck Wallet
Why neck wallets are discreet and secure: Neck wallets, like the Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Neck Wallet, have gained popularity as discreet anti theft solutions. These flat pouches are worn under clothing and are ideal for keeping valuables hidden and secure.
This neck wallet is spacious enough to hold a passport, cash, and credit cards without being bulky. It’s made from RFID-blocking nylon and features an adjustable neck strap for comfortable wear. The main compartment is divided into two sections with a Velcro flap closure.
Things to note: The wallet uses a Velcro closure, which is not as secure as a zipper, and the neck strap is not cut-resistant. This wallet is best for low-profile security rather than high-security needs.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 7 x 5 inches
- Weight: 1 oz
- Material: Nylon
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: N/A
(Jewelers recommend these travel jewelry cases.)
Factors Considered in Choosing the Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags
Our selections for the best anti theft travel bags are based on a combination of travel expertise and rigorous evaluation criteria:
- Third-Party Reviews: Customer feedback and online reviews were essential in assessing the real-world performance and reliability of each bag.
- Anti-Theft Features: We evaluated the quantity and effectiveness of anti theft features, including hidden compartments, locking zippers, RFID-blocking panels, and slash-resistant materials.
- Material Quality: Emphasis was placed on materials known for durability and security, such as high-weave nylons and RFID-blocking layers designed to prevent both physical and digital theft.
- Size and Weight: Bags were assessed for their practicality and comfort, ensuring that security features did not compromise usability or add excessive weight.
- Storage and Organization: We favored bags with thoughtful organizational features like card slots, zippered pockets, and specialized compartments to maximize storage efficiency.
- Overall Style: Aesthetics were considered alongside functionality, ensuring that the recommended anti theft bags are both practical and visually appealing, with various color options available.
Tips for Purchasing an Anti-Theft Travel Bag
Consider Your Travel Lifestyle:
Think about your typical travel style and destinations when choosing an anti theft travel bag, advises Alicia Skehan, designer at Baggallini. For frequent flyers, a larger anti theft backpack as carry-on luggage paired with a smaller crossbody bag for daily use at your destination can be an ideal combination.
Evaluate the Type of Protection Needed:
Opt for bags with multiple anti theft features like locking zippers and slash-resistant materials, as they add minimal bulk and significantly enhance security. However, consider your comfort level with certain features.
For those who find locking zippers cumbersome, a bag with multiple compartments, including at least one standard zippered compartment, might be more practical.
Bag design also plays a role. Crossbody or sling bags worn in front of the body, or neck wallets, offer inherent security advantages. At a minimum, ensure your anti theft travel bag includes RFID-blocking pockets.
Choose Synthetic Materials Over Leather:
Marcus Johnsson, VP of Design and Marketing at Pacsafe, recommends synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester over leather for anti theft travel bags. Synthetic materials are more functional, being water-resistant, lightweight, and easy to clean.
High-density polyester and nylon are commonly used in anti theft bags for their strength. Stainless steel mesh linings and cables reinforce the bag’s structure and straps, providing added protection.
Match Features to Your Itinerary:
Select security features based on your travel activities. For urban travel, choose bags with straps that can lock to stationary objects in public spaces.
For hostel stays or beach trips, prioritize bags with robust security features like padlocks, which offer greater protection for the bag itself and its contents.
Balance Style and Function:
Johnsson advises choosing an anti theft bag that doesn’t sacrifice style for security. Select a bag that is both visually appealing and functional. The Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody is an example of a stylish yet secure option.
Consider Adding Tracking Devices:
For extra security, especially with larger bags, consider adding a tracking device like an Apple AirTag or Tile tracker to help locate your bag if it’s lost or stolen.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anti-Theft Bags
Are anti-theft bags really worth it?
While no bag can guarantee complete protection against theft, anti theft travel bags significantly reduce the risk of both physical and digital theft when used correctly. The U.S. Embassy in Paris reports thousands of passports stolen annually, often due to pickpocketing. Anti theft bags act as a deterrent and provide crucial security features, but vigilance remains essential for travelers.
What type of bag is least likely to be stolen?
No bag is theft-proof, but anti theft bags with features like hidden zippers, reinforced straps, locks, and RFID-blocking pockets are highly effective in deterring thieves.
What is the safest purse style for travel?
Crossbody bags are considered among the safest for travel as they are difficult to snatch. Authorities recommend keeping your bag securely under your arm to prevent pickpocketing. Waist packs or hip bags worn across the chest with the buckle in the back are also secure alternatives.
What does RFID mean?
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a technology used in credit cards, passports, and devices to wirelessly transmit information. RFID-blocking in anti theft bags protects against digital skimming, where thieves use devices to illegally scan and steal data from your cards and passport.
About the Author:
Dobrina Zhekova is a Virginia-based lifestyle journalist specializing in travel and design. Her extensive writing portfolio includes product reviews and articles for numerous online publications such as Travel + Leisure, Forbes, Vogue, and Departures.
*National Geographic is not endorsing the experiences or products mentioned in this article. This is based on the author’s personal opinions and product research. Product safety testing has not been performed by National Geographic. Prices and availability are subject to change.
