Planning a trip to Europe is exciting, but amidst the anticipation of exploring historical sites and enjoying delicious cuisine, it’s crucial to consider your safety, especially regarding petty theft. Like many travelers, I once underestimated the importance of a secure travel bag, opting for a simple crossbody and a clutch, thinking I needed options for every occasion. I quickly learned that simplicity and security are key. You truly only need one reliable bag for your European adventures, and I’m here to guide you to the Best Anti Theft Travel Purse and highlight the essential features to look for.
Why a Crossbody Bag is Your First Line of Defense Against Theft
My initial travel bag setup quickly evolved. The clutch was swiftly retired, and the crossbody bag became my constant companion. Why? Because its design inherently deters theft. A bag worn across your body is significantly harder for thieves to snatch compared to tote bags dangling from a shoulder or clutches easily lifted from a table.
Choosing a crossbody bag is the foundational step in securing your valuables. Even if you decide against the specific bag I recommend later, prioritizing a crossbody style is a smart move for any traveler concerned about safety. Of course, a secure bag is just one piece of the puzzle; practicing general travel safety is also essential. However, opting for a crossbody is a proactive step in the right direction.
Anti-Theft Features: Essential for Peace of Mind, Especially for Solo Female Travelers
Taking your security a step further means choosing an anti-theft purse. But what exactly defines an “anti-theft” travel purse?
The best anti theft travel purses are engineered with a range of security features designed to thwart thieves. These features commonly include:
- Wire Mesh Reinforcement: Often integrated into the bag’s fabric, this mesh makes it incredibly difficult to slash open and steal the contents.
- Slash-Proof Straps: Reinforced straps prevent thieves from cutting the strap and running off with your bag.
- Lockable Zippers: These zippers can be secured, preventing opportunistic pickpockets from easily accessing your bag’s compartments, particularly in crowded areas.
Whether you’re navigating bustling city streets or exploring popular tourist hotspots, these anti-theft features significantly increase your security. Locked zippers and robust bag construction make it considerably harder for anyone to steal from you without you noticing.
Key Features to Look for in the Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse
The degree of slash-proofing can differ between bags, so it’s vital to understand the level of protection offered by your chosen anti theft travel purse. Some bags offer complete slash-proof construction, while others might have reinforced panels in key areas. Slash-resistant straps are another crucial feature to consider. When selecting the best anti theft travel purse for your needs, prioritize these protective elements.
These features are specifically designed to combat “cut and run” theft, a common tactic where thieves quickly slash a bag, grab valuables, and disappear into the crowd before the victim realizes what has happened.
Lockable zippers require your active participation to be effective. It’s crucial to diligently latch them closed. I know someone who habitually leaves bag zippers open, rendering lockable zippers useless! Remember, zipping and latching are essential steps in utilizing this security feature. Personally, as a safety-conscious traveler, I appreciate the added security of latching my bag, especially after transactions in public places. However, consistent use is key.
Another important zipper detail: assess its puncture resistance. While it might seem unusual, test the zipper with a pen to see if it easily separates. Some best anti theft travel purses incorporate puncture-proof zippers, often called “Tough Zips,” adding an extra layer of security.
RFID Protection: Safeguarding Your Digital Information
RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) skimming is a growing concern. Tech-savvy thieves can use RFID readers to wirelessly scan and steal data from your credit cards and passports, potentially from a distance. To counter this, consider a wallet or bag with RFID-blocking technology. This feature creates a barrier against these radio waves, protecting your sensitive information.
While not all credit cards are vulnerable to RFID scanning, the risk exists. Furthermore, passports can contain a wealth of personal data accessible via RFID, including your name, address, nationality, photo, and more. If identity theft is a concern for you, RFID protection is a critical feature to prioritize when searching for the best anti theft travel purse.
My Top Recommendation: The Travelon Messenger Bag – Ideal for European Travel
Now that you understand the essential features of the best anti theft travel purses, I’m excited to share my personal favorite and explain why I confidently recommend it as the best purse for traveling in Europe.
I’ve relied on the Travelon Messenger Bag since 2021, starting with my trip to Barcelona. Prior to my travels in Spain, numerous people warned me about pickpockets, prompting my search for a dependable and secure bag. The Travelon Messenger Bag has been my constant companion on every trip since, and it has consistently proven to be a reliable choice.
Travelon Purse: A Smart Choice for Secure Travel?
Why did the Travelon Messenger Bag become my go-to travel purse?
My search for the best purse for traveling in Europe began on Amazon, drawn to its extensive user reviews. The “Overall Picks” badge on the Travelon Messenger Bag initially caught my attention. Beyond this initial appeal, let me elaborate on the specific reasons why I chose this bag as my top pick.
Style: Practicality Meets Aesthetics
While I don’t chase fleeting fashion trends, personal style is still important to me. I wanted a travel purse that was both functional and aesthetically versatile, avoiding the stereotypical “tourist” look that some bags project.
This was my primary reservation about fanny packs. They evoke images from 80s and 90s movies and feel dated to me. Despite their practicality for some, a fanny pack wasn’t the style I envisioned. The crossbody style, however, offered the security I needed while maintaining a more classic and adaptable look.
Color: Versatile and Practical Black
Despite my love for colorful accessories, I opted for a black bag to ensure it would complement any outfit. Black is incredibly versatile and practical for travel.
Black also cleverly conceals dirt and minor stains. My bag has been placed on dusty Tuscan roads and jungle floors in Thailand, yet it still looks remarkably clean. The water and dirt-resistant fabric is a key factor in its enduring appearance. After three years of consistent use at the time of writing, my bag still looks almost new! I have encountered only one minor issue, which I will address later.
Safety Features: 5-Point Anti-Theft Security System
The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag boasts a comprehensive 5-Point Anti-Theft security system, designed to protect your belongings from pickpockets and slash-and-grab thieves:
- Lock-Down Straps: These straps allow you to secure the bag to a stationary object like a chair leg, preventing grab-and-go theft. While I haven’t personally used this feature extensively, it would have been beneficial in situations like outdoor dining in Mexico or Barcelona.
- Locking Zippered Pulls: These secure the bag’s compartments, deterring pickpockets from easily accessing the contents. I find the locking zippers incredibly reassuring and a significant peace of mind feature!
- Slash-Resistant Body: The bag’s body incorporates slash-resistant mesh on all four sides and the bottom panel, preventing slash-and-grab theft in crowded areas. Thankfully, I haven’t had to test this feature, but it’s comforting to know this protection is in place.
- Slash-Resistant Straps: Stainless steel wire within the straps prevents slash-and-run theft. Again, I haven’t experienced this, but the added security is a major factor in choosing the best anti theft travel purse.
- RFID Blocking Pockets: These pockets with RFID-blocking card slots and passport pockets protect against electronic identity theft. Crucial for travelers concerned about digital security!
- Tethered Interior Key Clip: This clip keeps your keys secure and easily accessible, preventing them from being snatched or lost at the bottom of your bag.
Size: Spacious Yet Practical
The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag measures 9 x 3.5 x 12.5 inches. I typically travel with a number of essential items and needed a bag with sufficient space to accommodate them all. This bag comfortably holds my passport, phone, journal, wallet, credit cards, contact lens case, glasses case, sunglasses, portable battery pack, and various other necessities.
However, I also wanted to avoid an overly bulky bag that would be cumbersome to carry around all day. I determined the ideal size by comparing the dimensions to bags I already owned, providing a tangible reference, and by observing how the bag appeared on models in product photos. While model proportions differ from mine, it provided a general sense of scale.
Shape: Functional and Classic Messenger Style
I had a specific shape preference in mind. I needed a bag tall enough to accommodate my journal, which is slightly taller than it is wide. A narrow bag wouldn’t work. Additionally, I wanted to be able to carry a water bottle, so a shallow bag was also unsuitable.
While some anti-theft bags on the market feature asymmetrical designs, I preferred the classic messenger bag shape, finding it more versatile and aesthetically pleasing.
Pockets: Organized Storage for Travel Essentials
The Travelon Classic Anti-Theft Messenger Bag excels in organization with multiple interior and exterior pockets, offering more structured storage than many everyday bags. It even includes a rear panel zippered wall pocket, eliminating the need to carry a separate wallet, reducing bulk and weight.
I utilize the rear panel pocket for my passport, as its placement against my body when wearing the bag makes it exceptionally secure and difficult for anyone to access unnoticed.
Strap Adjustment: Comfortable Fit for All Body Types
Another feature I appreciate is the adjustable strap. Being taller, I sometimes find that crossbody bags fit awkwardly. The adjustable strap allows me to customize the fit for optimal comfort, ensuring it’s neither too tight nor too loose.
Water Bottle Holder: Hydration and Convenience On-the-Go
A standout feature that differentiated the Travelon Classic Messenger Bag from other anti-theft purses was its integrated water bottle holder. Prioritizing hydration since COVID, having a dedicated space for a water bottle was a significant advantage, solidifying its position as the best purse for traveling in Europe for my needs.
This feature also promotes sustainability by encouraging reusable water bottle use, reducing reliance on single-use plastic bottles. The zippered expansion pockets on both ends can accommodate items beyond water bottles, such as sunglasses or a beanie. I often tucked my beanie into the expansion pocket in Finland for easy access.
Reviews: Real User Experiences and Positive Feedback
Ultimately, the overwhelmingly positive reviews on Amazon further convinced me that the Travelon Classic Messenger Bag is indeed the best purse for traveling in Europe. Currently, it holds a 4.4-star rating out of 5, with 72% of reviews being 5-star and an additional 13% being 4-star. While there are a minority of lower-rated reviews, the vast majority are highly positive.
The detailed written reviews provide valuable real-world insights into user experiences, highlighting both the pros and cons and reinforcing the bag’s reputation as the best anti theft travel purse for many travelers.
Minor Drawbacks of the Travelon Purse
To provide a balanced perspective, I want to mention a couple of minor issues I’ve encountered during my years of using this bag:
- The mesh in one of the zippered expansion pockets has ripped. While the tear isn’t severe, and the pocket remains functional for larger items like water bottles, I wouldn’t store small, loose items in it. However, I consider this normal wear and tear after years of frequent use and wouldn’t let it deter you from considering it as the best purse for traveling in Europe.
- In extremely cold conditions in Finland, my scarf occasionally snagged on the main compartment zipper. This is likely a common issue with any zippered bag and winter scarves, not specific to this product, but worth noting for travelers in cold climates.
Travel Purses for Europe: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest type of purse to travel with?
For optimal safety, I strongly recommend a crossbody purse. Crossbody bags are undeniably the best purse for traveling in Europe due to their inherent security advantages – they are significantly harder for thieves to steal when worn across your body.
Do I need an anti-theft bag in Europe?
In my opinion, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Before my trip to Barcelona, I hadn’t invested in an anti-theft purse. However, after hearing numerous stories of phone and bag thefts, I became concerned. Even during my Barcelona trip, my fears were validated when a bag was stolen from a nearby table at a restaurant while briefly unattended. Having the best anti theft travel purse provided a greater sense of security and allowed me to be more at ease, despite the heightened awareness of potential theft. With reports of increased pickpocketing in cities like Paris, I firmly believe an anti-theft bag is a worthwhile investment for European travel.
What do you pack in your purse when traveling?
Typically, I carry essential travel documents and everyday items in my purse: passport, phone, journal, wallet, credit cards, contact lens case, glasses case, sunglasses, portable battery pack, power cord, pen, AirPods, driver’s license, cotton swabs, medication, and miscellaneous small items. For comprehensive packing advice, refer to my guide on packing light!
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Purse for Traveling in Europe
For over 35 years, Travelon has been dedicated to enhancing travel experiences through products that prioritize traveler protection, safety, and organization. They consistently produce some of the best anti theft travel purses available.
The combination of its outstanding security features, practical design, and my personal positive experiences using it across numerous trips over the past few years firmly establishes the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag as the best purse for traveling in Europe – and for travel adventures worldwide!
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