Investing in the Best Anti Theft Travel Bags is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for modern travelers. Whether you’re navigating bustling European cities, exploring exotic markets in Asia, or simply enjoying a relaxed getaway, the threat of theft is ever-present. These specialized bags are engineered with advanced security features, offering peace of mind and allowing you to focus on the joys of travel, not the worries of losing your valuables. From cleverly concealed compartments to robust, slash-proof materials, anti-theft bags are designed to deter pickpockets and protect your belongings from both physical and digital theft.
Anti-theft bags stand apart from conventional bags due to their thoughtful design and integrated security mechanisms. Typically constructed from durable yet lightweight, high-performance fabrics, these bags incorporate features like zippered compartments that can be locked, anti-slash materials to prevent opportunistic cuts, and RFID-blocking panels to shield your cards and passports from electronic skimming. These features are seamlessly integrated to provide robust security without compromising on style or functionality.
As a seasoned traveler, security is always top of mind. For countless city explorations, the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag has become my trusted companion. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates daily essentials, including a dedicated water bottle pocket, and is packed with essential security features. It’s truly deserving of its position as our top overall pick. Below, we delve into a curated selection of the best anti theft travel bags available today, catering to diverse needs and travel styles.
Discover the Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags for Every Journey
- 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 Bag for Your Travels
When selecting from the array of best anti theft travel bags, consider key features that maximize security and convenience. Look for bags equipped with hidden compartments to discreetly store valuables, lockable zippers to deter quick access, and RFID-blocking panels to safeguard your digital information. Slash-resistant straps and materials, such as high-density nylon, are crucial for preventing bag slashing, a common tactic used by thieves. Crossbody styles are often favored for their enhanced security compared to shoulder bags, as they are worn closer to the body. Beyond security, prioritize organization and comfort to ensure your anti-theft bag is a pleasure to use throughout your journeys. Let’s explore the detailed features of our top recommendations.
Best Anti-Theft Travel Bag Overall: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
Image: A traveler-favorite messenger bag in black, highlighting its classic and functional design, ideal for showcasing the best anti theft travel bag overall.
Travelon Messenger Bag: Secure and Spacious for City Adventures
Why it stands out: The Travelon Messenger Bag has garnered a loyal following among frequent travelers for its reliability and comprehensive security features. Its crossbody design and adjustable strap ensure it sits securely against your body, minimizing vulnerability to snatch-and-grab theft.
Constructed with robust, cut-resistant 900-denier nylon, this bag, including its strap, is designed to withstand slashing attempts. Locking zippers add an extra layer of security to the main compartments, while RFID-blocking pockets protect credit cards and passports from digital theft. A unique lockdown strap allows you to secure the bag to stationary objects like chairs and tables, preventing opportunistic theft in cafes and restaurants.
Beyond security, the Travelon excels in organization. A dedicated side mesh pocket accommodates a water bottle, and the surprisingly spacious interior easily holds daily essentials, including a light jacket or sweater.
Things to consider: While highly functional, this bag is not fully water-resistant. For enhanced protection in wet conditions, consider using waterproof pouches for sensitive electronics and valuables within the bag.
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: A minimalist and affordable black backpack, showcasing its budget-friendly appeal as a top pick among best anti theft travel bags.
Ambor Laptop Backpack: Affordable Security for Tech-Savvy Travelers
Why it’s budget-friendly and secure: For travelers seeking security without breaking the bank, the Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack offers impressive anti-theft features at an accessible price point under $30. The main compartment is secured with metal zippers and a combination lock, providing a basic yet effective deterrent against unauthorized access. The front pocket features dual zippers that can be further secured with zipper clips for enhanced protection. Constructed from tear-resistant material, this backpack offers durability for everyday use.
The Ambor backpack presents a classic, understated aesthetic. Internally, it’s surprisingly organized, featuring numerous pockets, zippered compartments, and a dedicated padded laptop compartment. A cleverly concealed slide pocket on the back panel provides quick access to smaller items while maintaining security. The inclusion of a luggage strap makes it exceptionally convenient for airport travel.
Keep in mind: While offering valuable physical security features, the Ambor backpack does not include RFID-blocking pockets. Consider using separate RFID-blocking sleeves for your cards and passport for comprehensive digital security.
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: A stylish and compact crossbody bag in a neutral color, highlighting its design as a secure and fashionable choice among best anti theft travel bags.
Pacsafe Crossbody: Compact Security with Advanced Anti-Theft Technology
Why it’s the top crossbody pick: Crossbody bags are inherently safer due to their close-to-body wear style, and the Pacsafe Citysafe CX elevates security with advanced anti-theft features. Both the bag’s exterior and lining are reinforced with stainless-steel wire mesh, providing comprehensive cut resistance. The adjustable strap is also wire-reinforced, further preventing slash-and-run theft.
The main compartment, while compact, offers a zippered pocket and space for essential items, including a small camera or a 7-inch tablet in a padded sleeve. Zippers are equipped with hooks that lock onto a front metal loop, adding a significant layer of security. The bag also features a secure attachment strap to fasten it to a chair or table, ideal for dining or relaxing in public spaces.
Consider this: Some users find the frequent locking and unlocking of the front zippers slightly cumbersome. However, this is a trade-off for enhanced security and peace of mind.
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
Best Anti-Theft Purse: Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody with Locking Clasps Strap
Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody with Locking Clasps Strap
Image: An elegant and stylish crossbody purse in a rich color, showcasing its fashionable design combined with anti-theft features, ideal for highlighting best anti theft travel purses.
Arden Cove Crossbody: Elegant Security for Style-Conscious Travelers
Why it’s the best anti-theft purse: For occasions requiring a more refined aesthetic without sacrificing security, the Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody purse is an ideal choice. This elegant accessory comes in a variety of sophisticated color combinations, seamlessly blending fashion with robust anti-theft features.
Crafted from smooth, waterproof nylon, the purse’s interior is fully lined with slash-resistant material. It offers excellent organization with dedicated RFID-blocking card and cash slots in the front pocket, along with a spacious main compartment featuring two side 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 stylish chain straps designed to resist cutting. Protective studs on the base minimize wear and tear, adding to the purse’s durability and longevity.
Keep in mind: While spacious for essential daily items, the Arden Cove purse may not accommodate bulkier items. Consider a larger bag for days requiring more capacity.
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: A compact and lightweight backpack in black, highlighting its everyday usability and anti-theft features as a top choice for best anti theft travel backpacks.
Baggallini Backpack: Lightweight and Organized for Daily Exploration
Why it’s the best anti-theft backpack: The Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack is designed for everyday use and travel, offering a compact and lightweight design packed with essential security features. Water-resistant and durable, it features cut-resistant straps and interior panels, along with an RFID-blocking zippered back pocket. The main compartment is secured with locking zippers for added protection.
Organization is a key strength of this backpack, with multiple card slots, smartphone and tablet pockets in both the main and back compartments, and dual side water bottle pockets. Despite its compact size, it offers ample storage for daily essentials and travel documents.
Things to note: This backpack is not designed to accommodate a laptop. The front pocket zippers do not lock, so valuables should be stored in the main or back compartments.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 10 x 13 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Material: Material specifications not available
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 7.5L
Best Anti-Theft Waist Pack: Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack
Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack
Image: A sporty and versatile sling pack in black, showcasing its waist pack functionality and anti-theft design, ideal for highlighting best anti theft waist packs.
Pacsafe Sling Pack: Hands-Free Security for On-the-Go Travel
Why it’s the best waist pack option: Waist or hip packs, worn close to the body, are inherently secure, and the Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack enhances this security with Pacsafe’s signature anti-theft technology. Constructed from water-resistant recycled polyester, it includes an RFID-blocking pocket and a cut-resistant strap with a double-locking buckle.
The interior features a small wall pocket and a main compartment sized for essential items. For added security, zippers can be locked in place using a clip on the sling’s side. Its versatile design allows it to be worn in multiple ways, even discreetly under a jacket.
Keep in mind: The Pacsafe Sling Pack is designed for carrying small essentials. Internal organization is minimal, so using smaller organizers within the pack can enhance organization.
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: A practical and versatile sling bag in a neutral color, showcasing its larger size compared to a waist pack and highlighting its sling bag functionality among best anti theft travel bags.
Travelon Sling Bag: Spacious and Secure Sling for Everyday Carry
Why it’s the best sling bag: The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag offers a balance between the compactness of a waist pack and the capacity of a backpack. Lightweight yet roomy, it can easily accommodate a tablet, book, travel documents, and other daily essentials. It features an RFID-blocking compartment and multiple zippered pockets for organization.
Constructed from polyester reinforced with slash-resistant panels, the bag offers robust physical security. The strap is reinforced with dual steel cables and padded for comfort. All exterior zippers are lockable, and the bag includes a locking system to secure it to furniture, providing comprehensive anti-theft protection.
Consider this: While it includes RFID-blocking technology, it is not described as fully RFID-blocking across the entire bag. Focus on using the designated RFID pocket for maximum protection.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 7 x 14 x 4 inches
- Weight: 0.9 lbs
- Material: Polyester
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: 5.5L
Best Neck Wallet: Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Neck Wallet
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Sling Bag
Image: A discreet and slim neck wallet in a light color, showcasing its minimalist design and RFID-blocking capabilities as a top choice for best anti theft neck wallets.
Eagle Creek Neck Wallet: Discreet and Essential for Secure Document Storage
Why it’s the best neck wallet: Neck wallets have gained popularity for their discreet security, worn comfortably and concealed under clothing. The Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Neck Wallet is designed to hold essential documents like passports, cash, and credit cards without added bulk.
Constructed from RFID-blocking nylon, it features an adjustable neck strap and a main compartment divided into two sections with a Velcro flap closure. Its slim profile makes it ideal for keeping valuables hidden and secure.
Keep in mind: The wallet uses a Velcro closure, which is less secure than a zipper, and the neck strap is not cut-resistant. It’s best suited for discreetly carrying essential documents rather than as a primary anti-theft bag for all belongings.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 7 x 5 inches
- Weight: 1 oz
- Material: Nylon
- RFID Protection: Yes
- Volume: Not specified
Key Considerations When Buying Anti-Theft Travel Bags
Our selection of the best anti theft travel bags is based on rigorous evaluation, considering several critical factors:
- Customer Reviews: We analyzed third-party reviews and feedback to ensure product reliability and consistent quality, prioritizing bags with positive user experiences.
- Anti-Theft Features: We assessed the effectiveness and range of anti-theft features, including hidden compartments, locking zippers, RFID-blocking, and slash-resistant materials, to ensure comprehensive security.
- Material Quality: We focused on durable, cut-resistant materials such as high-density nylons and integrated RFID-blocking layers, ensuring bags are built to last and protect against both physical and digital threats.
- Size and Weight: Recognizing the importance of comfort and practicality, we evaluated bag dimensions and weight to ensure they are travel-friendly and functional without being cumbersome.
- Storage and Organization: We prioritized bags with smart organizational features, including card slots, zippered pockets, and specialized compartments, to maximize storage efficiency and keep belongings organized while traveling.
- Style and Aesthetics: We believe security shouldn’t compromise style. Our selections include bags that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, available in various styles and colors to suit personal preferences.
Expert Tips for Choosing and Using Anti-Theft Travel Bags
Consider Your Travel Style and Habits: Alicia Skehan, designer at Baggallini, recommends aligning your bag choice with your typical travel style. Frequent flyers might benefit from a larger anti-theft backpack as carry-on luggage combined with a smaller crossbody bag for daily use at their destination.
Prioritize Essential Security Features: Opt for bags with a combination of anti-theft features like locking zippers and slash-resistant materials, as these add minimal bulk and weight while significantly enhancing security. Evaluate which features are most relevant to your needs and travel destinations.
Evaluate Zipper Locking Mechanisms: While locking zippers offer enhanced security, consider if the locking mechanism is convenient for your usage. If constant locking and unlocking feels cumbersome, a bag with multiple compartments, including some with standard zippers, might be a more practical choice.
Crossbody and Sling Bag Advantages: Marcus Johnsson, VP of Design and Marketing at Pacsafe, emphasizes the inherent security of crossbody and sling bag designs. Wearing a bag across your body or using a neck wallet provides a significant deterrent to theft and offers greater peace of mind.
Material Matters: Opt for Synthetics over Leather: For anti-theft travel bags, synthetic materials like nylon and polyester offer superior functionality compared to leather. They are water-resistant, lightweight, easy to clean, and can be engineered for enhanced durability and cut resistance. Look for high-density fabrics with stainless steel mesh linings and cable-reinforced straps for maximum protection.
Tailor Security to Your Itinerary: Consider your planned activities when choosing security features. For city travel, a bag with a chair/table lock is invaluable. For hostel stays or beach trips, focus on robust physical security features like padlocks to protect the bag itself.
Balance Style and Function: Choose an anti-theft bag that complements your personal style. As Johnsson advises, avoid bags that feel overly functional and opt for designs that are both visually appealing and practical, like the stylish Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody.
Enhance Security with Tracking Devices: For added security, consider incorporating tracking devices like Apple AirTags or Tile trackers into your bag. These devices can be invaluable in locating your bag if it is lost or stolen, offering an extra layer of reassurance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anti-Theft Travel Bags
Are anti-theft bags really worth it? Yes, investing in best anti theft travel bags can significantly reduce your risk of theft. The U.S. Embassy in Paris highlights the prevalence of pickpocketing, with thousands of passports stolen annually. While no bag is theft-proof, anti-theft features deter thieves and protect against both physical and digital theft, especially when used diligently.
What type of bag is least likely to be stolen? No bag offers complete protection. However, anti-theft bags with features like hidden zippers, reinforced straps, locks, and RFID-blocking pockets are highly effective in deterring theft and minimizing risk.
Which purse style is safest for travel? Crossbody bags are considered among the safest for travel due to their secure, close-to-body style, making them difficult to snatch. Authorities recommend carrying bags securely under your arm to further minimize risk. Waist packs or hip bags worn across the chest also offer excellent security.
What is RFID and why is it important? RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is technology used in credit cards, passports, and devices for contactless transactions and identification. RFID-blocking technology protects against digital theft by preventing scammers from using skimming devices to steal data from your cards and passports. Choosing best anti theft travel bags with RFID-blocking features is crucial for digital security.
Dobrina Zhekova is a seasoned lifestyle journalist based in Alexandria, Virginia, specializing in travel and design. Her extensive portfolio includes product reviews and articles for numerous online publications such as Travel + Leisure, Forbes, Vogue, and Departures, providing readers with expert insights and recommendations across diverse travel and lifestyle topics.
*National Geographic’s affiliate partnerships support our mission to bring you inspiring travel and product recommendations. While we share our personal opinions, National Geographic does not endorse these products, nor have we conducted independent product testing. Product safety, manufacturing, sales, and distribution are managed by third-party retailers. Prices and availability are subject to change.
