Traveling can be quite stressful when planning and the worst thing that can happen is dealing with theft during your travels. One way to ensure the safety of your belongings is by getting one of the best anti-theft travel bags out there. There are a few companies out there and I’ll lay out which ones to look out for. Whether you are looking for the best anti-theft travel purse, best travel anti theft backpack, or a travel anti theft crossbody bag, I got you covered.
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Best Anti Theft Bag for Travel for 2023
There are a few things to consider when picking out the best anti theft travel bag from the type of fabric, types of zippers, a chain, and protective lining. While it’s not necessary to have an anti theft travel bag, it provides a sense of security and prevent thieves from getting you personal information. A theft proof bag will be one of the best investments you can make for your trip.
Quick Recommendations – Best Anti-Theft Bags Quick Links
If you are just want to get quick and to the point for an anti theft bag for travel, here is the list of the best anti-theft bags listed in this review guide. You can also go by my true and trusted favorite here.
Arden Cove Crossbody
Best Anti Theft Cross Body Bags | Best Anti Theft Purses
Best Anti Theft Backpacks
Best Anti Theft Slings
Best Anti Theft Handbag Totes
Best Anti Theft Travel Bag Comparison Chart
What is an Anti Theft Bag?
An anti theft bag for travel is pretty much a bag with all the modern conveniences and prevents pickpocketers from getting your important documents and finances. These bags often include a variety of different materials, locking clasps, a chain, and more. Honestly, my best travel tip is to get an anti theft bag for travel. There are many reasons why these bags are worth it.
These bags help prevent thieves from getting to everything that matters to you on your trip. It stops them from slashing your bag open, unzipping them in crowded and public spaces, prevents them from scanning your RFID cards, is easy to clean, and can be used in different circumstances. Most bags are not necessarily equipped with these kinds of materials which is why it’s crucial to consider the following items below.
What to look for in an Anti Theft Bag – Anti Theft Bag Best features
I’ve listed the major features to look for when trying to find the best anti theft bag for travel. Unfortunately, when it comes to many of these bags, a lot of them are not always necessarily beautiful or stylish although they have improved and many are. The purpose of an anti theft bag for travel is primarily for function, however, designs are constantly changing and I think eventually, it will be easier to find fashionable yet functional bags.
How do I choose the best Purse for travel?
Well there are a lot of things to consider in which is the best purse or bag for travel. I’ve listed some of the most common things you need to look out for below and see which suits you best for your future anti theft travel bag, backpack, purse, or tote. It’s important to have a pickpocket proof bag.
Slash-proof Fabric
The first and foremost thing you need to look for in anti theft travel bags is slash-proof materials to make your bag theft proof. This is crucial because a lot of pickpocketers will quickly slash your bag from underneath or the strap around your body in order to get your important belongings. A slash-proof bag should be something you should definitely look for in an anti theft bag.
Zippers with Locking Latches or Clips
This to me be is a very important feature for an anti theft bag for travel. There are some anti theft bags out there that don’t have the locking latches which is a little worrisome for me. The locking latches provide more security to your bag when you lock it up or have it around your body.
These locking clips prevent thieves from accessing your pockets right away. It clips your zippers and keeps them locked and safe. Additionally, some have it on the strap and it prevents thieves from unclasping the lock and dropping the strap of your bag.
There are anti theft travel bags that only have clips and are not locking clips and those are subjectable to what you are looking for. A locking clasp provides more security but a regular clip does a fairly decent job as well. It may or may not be a deal-breaker for you and that is ultimately your decision. I have listed a few that do not have that feature on some of the zippers, however, they are stylish and do not typically look like anti theft bags.
Attachable chain or Shoulder strap to table while dining
When I talk about the clasps above, I highly recommend them for an anti theft bag for travel because these clips are also helpful if you want to take your bag off and attach it to the chair or table at a restaurant when eating. It will prevent someone from taking it easy. You can even add a lock between the 2 for extra security if necessary.
RFID Lining
This is super important to protect you from identity theft from credit cards, debit cards, and passports, it’s crucial that your bag has these features to save you from the headaches of worrying about theft. The worst thing that can happen other than physical theft, is having a canceled credit card and being unable to have the fund to pay for things abroad. These are why RFID travel bags are so important to have.
Easy to Clean Material
An easy-to-clean material is important because well-travel can get stinky, messy, and often requires long and enduring trips. You want an anti theft bag for travel you can easily wash, take care of, and make sure it lasts a lifetime.
Versatility
Finally, I think it’s important to have a bag that is very versatile. A bag that has a lot of pockets so I can store money and cards in different areas of the bag, can be accessible in many areas, areas for a water bottle, or just the necessities.
Brands with the Best Anti Theft Bags
There are 2 major brands with the best anti theft bags. These 2 brands are typically PacSafe Anti Theft Bags and Travelon Anti Theft Bags. Another brand I am introducing is Arden Cove which is more for a stylish and simplistic design.
What is the best-rated anti-theft messenger bag for travel?
I would say that PacSafe and Travelon are the best and more well-known for a reason. Although I do love Arden Cove’s design and aesthetic, I find that PacSafe and Travelon to be more durable and well known. However, that does not discredit Arden Cove. They are still a great brand and their main goal is to provide stylish anti theft bags.
Best Travel Anti Theft Purses and Anti Theft Cross Body Bags
Anti Theft Purses and Anti Theft Cross Body Bags are probably some of the most popular items people search for and are in need of. Many women are worried when they travel about losing items, being a victim of theft, and assault. These items help many of us women who travel solo have a little bit more of a sense of security. Travel secure purses are becoming more common even for everyday use. These are some of my favorite purses for travel security.
Arden Cove Cross Body Bag
The Arden Cove Crossbody is probably one of my favorite anti theft bag for travel as it’s a designed cross body purse that doesn’t look too much like an anti-theft purse. I would say it’s one of the best bag travel anti theft for women. It’s got a modern design, it’s simple, and it seems to go from day to night fairly easily while still being a secure travel purse. It doesn’t look so sporty which is what we love about this product. This anti theft crossbody purse comes in black, cream, grey, navy, maroon, chocolate, and red. This is an anti theft travel bag for women fashion lovers.
Don’t let the size of this anti theft purse fool you. This purse is pretty jam packed with features.
Here are some of its popular anti theft features:
- 2 lined pockets and a zip lined pocket
- Detachable chain strap
- Waterproof exterior and zippers
- Regular clips to lock zippers
- RFID-blocking pocket
- Slots for bank cards
Shop Arden Cove Cross Body Bag
Pack Safe Metrosafe LS250 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag
This was honestly my first and favorite cross body bag. It’s an anti theft classic bag. I used this when I traveled all over Italy and I’m so thankful I had this bag. During our trip to Italy, someone had managed to get into my Aunt’s backpack, but thankfully, she had safety pinned it. So all they managed to do was get the safety pin off. This bag is my ultimate favorite because of its size and features.
I was able to carry my Fujifilm Mirrorless Camera, passport, money in different pockets, wallet, a water bottle, and so much more. I love the locking features for this bag as well, it provides locking clasps with a safety clip feature which makes it harder to get into.
Features of this anti theft crossbody bag include:
- Waterbottle/Umbrella Compartment
- Turn N Lock Security Clips
- Slashguard Strap
- ExoMesh Slashguard Material
- Hidden Zip Clip
- RFID Blocking Card Materials
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Water bottle pockets
Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Tour Bag
The Travelon bag is a pretty stylish anti-theft bag that is modern-looking. This is a unisex bag that is perfect for anyone out there. It’s a bit of a city-style which is one of Travelon’s popular designs. This one also has a pocket for a water bottle or small compact umbrella and I would say is pretty comparable to the PacSafe Metrosafe LS250 above. I would say this is a anti theft classic messenger bag. It is a perfect anti theft crossbody travel bag for men.
Features of this anti theft crossbody bag include:
- Waterbottle/Umbrella Compartment
- Security Clips
- Slashguard Strap
- Slash resistant materials
- RFID Blocking Materials
Shop Travelon Hertiage Tour Bag
PacSafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Square Crossbody
PacSafe created this bag for fashion and function. It’s a minimalist style bag perfect for small things. If you like to pack light and not carry too much on the go, this is the perfect bag for you. This bag is perfect for city touring and just a great little bag for everyday use.
Features for this anti-theft crossbody bag:
- Turn N Lock Security Clips
- Anti slash material
- RFID Blocking Materials
- Roobar Locking Style System
Shop Anti-Theft Square Crossbody
Travelon Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody
The Travelon anti-theft bag is probably their most common anti theft purses. You can easily find this purse at the container store and my friends have purchased this bag when I recommended they get an anti theft bag for Europe. What we loved about these bags is its sheer amount of space for a crossbody. There was seriously so much space in this bag and lots of pockets, a zipper lock, slash-resistant strap, and versatile design. It was perfect for holding makeup, extra souvenirs, water bottles, and so much more. This is the travelon anti-theft classic messenger bag that is one of the best sellers and best options on the market.
If I didn’t already love my PacSafe bag, this would be an option I would buy for sure.
Features of this anti-theft purse:
- Deep large main compartment
- Slash resistant materials
- Turn N Lock Security Clips
- RFID Blocking
- Slash Resistant Straps
Shop Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody
Best Travel Anti Theft Backpack
The best anti-theft backpacks are ones where you feel secure having them on your back and protecting your items. There are so many backpack options out there for travel but to narrow it down to anti theft backpacks is quite difficult. It depends on what type of backpack you are in need of and looking for. These are some of the best anti theft backpack designs out there.
Arden Cove Convertible Backpack and Crossbody
What I love about this backpack is that you can change the straps into a shoulder bag. This is an anti theft travel bag for women. I love a bag that is versatile, a anti theft convertible bag, and can change based on what your needs are. Sometimes you want a backpack and sometimes you want a different bag. There is 1 main compartment with a front pocket perfect for story money and cards. It also has space for things like a tablet, camera, and more. This is the best travel purse backpack combo.
Features of this anti-theft backpack:
- Cut Resistant Straps
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Waterproof Zippers
- Slash Resistant Materials
- Locking hardware and clasps
- Waterproof Fabric
Shop Arden Cove Convertible Backpack and Crossbody
Pacsafe Go 15L Anti-Theft Backpack
This backpack reminds me of a classic high school backpack. It looks like an everyday backpack which makes it a perfect design. This backpack has a laptop pocket that holds up to a 13” Macbook or 12” laptop. It also has a strap that slides over your luggage handle which makes it perfect for travel. You can easily slip this bag onto your roller carry-on suitcase. It also has a side pocket perfect for holding a water bottle or small umbrella which makes it a perfect anti theft bag for travel.
Features of this anti-theft backpack:
- Laptop Pocket for up to 12” Laptop or 13” Macbook
- Side pocket for a water bottle or small umbrella
- Water-Resistant
- Made of Recyclable Materials
- Luggage Slip
- Zip Clip
- Slashguard Materials
- TurnNLock Security Hooks
- RFID Blocking Materials
Shop Pacsafe Go 15L Anti-Theft Backpack
Introducing the Bagsmart Camera Backpack, a true companion for the intrepid photographers traversing the globe! This backpack is more than just a carrier; it’s a fortress for your precious camera gear, meticulously crafted to safeguard your equipment while providing unmatched convenience. Designed with the modern photographer in mind, the Bagsmart Backpack boasts a cleverly organized interior.
With specialized compartments for your camera and space for up to two lenses, it ensures easy access and ample protection. Its thoughtful design doesn’t stop there; it extends to accommodating your laptop, memory cards, and even a rain cover for those unpredictable weather moments, making it an indispensable travel companion for every shutterbug.
Features of the Bagsmart Camera Backpack include:
- Dedicated compartments and pockets for camera and lenses
- Padded sleeve for a laptop
- Ample storage for memory cards and accessories
- Integrated rain cover for weather protection
- Adjustable and padded shoulder straps for comfort
- Side pockets for a water bottle or compact umbrella
- Anti-theft design elements like lockable zippers and RFID protection
- Durable, water-resistant materials for added security
- Ergonomic design for prolonged wear and ease of use
- Stylish yet functional, the Bagsmart Camera Backpack is a testament to innovation meeting practicality, catering to the needs of photographers who seek both security and convenience in their gear-carrying solutions.
Travelon heritage Backpack
This is a backpack has a vintage style that makes it modern yet classic. It’s fairly stylish, fashionable, and perfect for everyday use. I would say that this is a bag that meets function and fashion. You can use this to carry your laptop, tablet, accessories, and would also make for the perfect diaper bag as well.
Features of this anti-theft backpack:
- Pocket for up to a 14” laptop
- Slash Resistant
- Locking Clasps
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Slash Resistant Straps
Travelon Signature Anti-Theft Slim Backpack
The Travelon Signature Anti-Theft Slim Backpack is the ultimate blend of style and function. It’s vintage but modern, perfect for your daily hustle or travel escapades.
Key features? It’s got a pocket for a 14” laptop and is built with safety in mind. Slash-resistant fabric and straps, locking clasps, and RFID-blocking pockets protect you and your valuables. This bag’s not just smart; it’s a fortress. It’s perfect for work, travel, or even as a diaper bag. Functional, fashionable, and secure. What more could you want?
Features of this anti-theft backpack:
- 14″ Laptop Pocket: Designed with a pocket to fit up to a 14″ laptop. Perfect for work or travel.
- Slash Resistant: The material and straps are built to resist slashing. Walk confidently through any crowd.
- Locking Clasps: Keeps your valuables secure so you can explore without constant worry.
- RFID Blocking Pockets: Safeguard your personal information from tech-savvy thieves.
Best Anti Theft Slings or waist packs
Sling bags are another option for an anti theft bag for travel. These are very popular in Asian countries and can be seen as fanny packs in some situations. Most people enjoy wearing these like a crossbody backpack. These provide some space for small important must-haves during your travel and they are light and leave you hands-free. These are 2 of my favorite options of the anti theft slings.
PacSafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack
This is the perfect bag for everyday city life. It’s designed to be more like a crossbody backpack. It has a long narrow main pocket and a variety of different pockets to keep your belongings safe. This bag has been well designed and provides a variety of different safety features including locking clips, RFID and splashguard materials.
Features of this anti-theft slingbag:
- Slash Resistant
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Slash Resistant Straps
- PopNLock Security Clips
- Roobar Locking System
Shop PacSafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack
Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack
This is the typical fanny pack-style anti-theft bag for travel. It’s perfect for people who like to wear these packs on their hips. It can also be worn around the back like most sling bags and is interchangeable. This one has a lot of pockets to hold your cards, passport, and more. This one even has a pocket to hold a waterbottle or small umbrella! It makes for the perfect anti theft travel bag for a water bottle.
Features of this anti-theft fanny pack:
- Slash Resistant
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Slash Resistant Straps
- Waterbottle/Umbrella Compartment
Shop Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack
Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack
The Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack is more than just a trendy bag—it’s your security detail wrapped in a sleek design. Ideal for urban adventurers and casual day-trippers alike, this pack offers a perfect blend of style and function. With its versatile design, you can sling it any way you like, all while knowing your essentials are safe and sound.
Key Features of this Anti Theft Sling
- Versatile Design: Wear it on the front or back to match your style and situation.
- Lockable Zippers: No more constant bag-checks. Lock it and forget it.
- RFID Safe Pockets: Protects your cards and passport from unauthorized scans.
- Cut-Resistant Straps: Feel secure even in crowded places, thanks to straps that are tough to slice through.
Monos Metro Sling
The Monos Metro Sling is for those who love simplicity but won’t compromise on functionality. This pack is the epitome of minimalist design, offering a sleek and clean look while maintaining space for your essentials. It’s perfect for those quick trips out where you just need the basics, but want them to be easily accessible and secure.
Key Features
- Compact Yet Roomy: Don’t let its size fool you. It’s designed to hold more than you think, from a tablet to your daily essentials.
- Water-Resistant Material: Because nobody likes water damage, right? Your belongings stay dry, come rain or shine.
- Multiple Pockets: Organize with ease, thanks to well-placed pockets for everything you need to carry.
- Adjustable Strap: Customize the fit to make it as comfortable as it is functional.
Best Anti Theft Handbag Totes
These totes are perfect for someone who just wants a useful messenger workbag and other things. It’s perfect to hold important documents and protect your tech from thieves. These are great substitutions for bulky hard briefcases.
PacSafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Satchel Handbag
This bag has more of a feminine look to it which provides a lot of security but is also stylish. It’s elegant and timeless which means it won’t go out of style. This is a satchel handbag which is the perfect large-size anti theft travel purse. It’s perfect for fitting in your makeup, tablet, phone, and more.
Features of this anti-theft bag for travel:
- Slash Resistant
- TurnNLock Clips
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Slash Resistant Straps
- Roobar Locking System
Shop PacSafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Satchel Handbag
Travelon Anti-Theft Addison Tote
Use this everyday tote for travel, work, life, and daily errands. It’s a modern tote with everything you need. It has several pockets, an interior wallet, and a spacious pocket for a 10” tablet to keep on hand. This bag is meant to be durable and long-lasting with all the anti theft features.
Features of this anti-theft bag for travel:
- Slash Resistant
- Locking clasps
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Slash Resistant Straps
Shop Travelon Anti-Theft Addison Tote
Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Tote Bag
This is probably my favorite tote bag out of all of the ones I listed above. This tote bag is large and perfect for the beach, grocery shopping, day trips, and as a diaper bag. It’s spacious and has a pocket for a 15” laptop. It’s made from recyclable materials with all of the perfect anti-theft security features as well.
Features of this anti-theft bag for travel:
- Slash Resistant
- Locking clasps
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Slash Resistant Straps
- Zip Clips
- Dock Locks
- TurnNLock Security Clips
Shop Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Tote Bag
Unbox Therapy X Pacsafe Anti-Theft Briefcase
This is a great option for those looking for a briefcase and a secure messenger bag. This is a unisex anti theft bag that holds up to a 15” laptop and a 10” tablet. This has a wide zipper area that allows you to get to your things quickly and easily. It has locking zippers, slash-resistant material and straps, RFID blocking materials, and more. It also includes a strap that allows you to easily slide these over carry-on roller suitcases to allow you to be hands-free at the airport. This is probably a popular anti-theft travel bag for men.
Features of this anti-theft bag for travel:
- Slash Resistant
- Locking clasps
- RFID Blocking Pockets
- Slash Resistant Straps
- Zip Clips
- Roobar Locking
- Luggage strap
Shop Unbox Therapy X Pacsafe Anti-Theft Briefcase
The Peak Design Everyday Tote
The Peak Design Everyday Tote is the ideal blend of fashion and utility. Its elegant design fits in just as well at a fancy dinner as it does on a casual day out. But don’t let its good looks fool you—this tote is built to handle your daily grind and then some.
Key Features for the Peak Design Everyday Tote
- Convertible Straps: Switch between tote and backpack modes for ultimate carrying flexibility.
- Weatherproof Exterior: A durable, water-resistant shell ensures your valuables stay dry, no matter what the day throws at you.
- Customizable Compartments: The inside is like a personalized locker, with dividers you can adjust to fit all your essentials neatly.
- Quick-Access Pockets: No more digging through your bag. Pockets designed for fast access to your most-used items.
Anti Theft Bag for Travel FAQs
Where can I buy an Anti Theft Purse or Travel Bag?
Most of these bags an be found online by clicking on the links above. However, PacSafe and Travelon I have found at the Container Store and at REI. These have been great places to grab some of these popular bags. However, their selections are very limited. I suggest using the links above to grab some bags you may not be able to find in the store.
The Benefits of Anti theft Travel Purses
Honestly, this is completely up to you and your budget. It provides a great sense of security when walking around especially in busy and crowded areas. These anti theft travel purses provide a great deal of protection for your belongings when you are out and about. It doesn’t necessarily have to be used for travel, it can definitely be used every day as well. These bags prevent thieves from getting all of your important information.
I have listed all the materials above that make for a great anti theft bag for travel and those would be the benefits for getting one.
What Is An Anti-Theft Pocket?
An Anti theft pocket can be a variety of things. It can be the hidden pocket within your back that is more secure with RFID pockets that help keep things hidden from view and difficult for thieves or pickpocketers to access.
Why Do You Need An Anti-Theft Bag?
You don’t need an anti-theft bag, but they do make for a great investment and protect your belongings while traveling. Thieves are getting more creative in getting into your belongings and you don’t want to fall victim to theft during your international travel.
There are a lot of benefits from having an anti-theft bag from lockable zippers to anti slash materials, it can’t be beat when it comes to normal purses and bags. I do have to say it is one of my travel essentials and the slash-proof material provides me withextra protection.
What Is The Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse?
This ultimately comes down to your decision. There are a lot of anti-theft bags on the market right now. I highly recommend the Arden Cove Crossbody bag or the PacSafe Metrosafe Bag. These are bags I’ve had in my rotation for a while and have done really well for my trips to Italy where my aunt almost got robbed!
The Arden Cove Crossbody is one of the best anti-theft purses and my favorite right now because it doesn’t look anything like an anti-theft bag with its elegant and stylish design with shoulder straps that you can easily take out to dinner in a nice dress. It can easily be dressed up and dressed down without lacking anti-theft features.
What Is The Best Anti-Theft Bag For Travel?
Well, I would suggest an anti theft backpack ultimately when it comes to am anti theft bag that is best for travel. My suggestion is the PacSafe Go 15L. It looks like a normal backpack with all of the features you need to travel like RFID protection, Slashproof Materials, and locking zippers. You won’t look like a tourist wearing this backpack around town.
Which Anti-Theft Bag Are You Getting?
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