Having traveled extensively over the years, I know that the last thing you want to worry about while exploring new places is the safety of your belongings. That’s where anti-theft bags come in handy.
They offer peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without constantly stressing about pickpockets or losing your valuables.
In this article, I’ll share my favorite options for safe yet stylish anti-theft bags, purses, crossbodies, and more. These are bags I’ve personally tested or thoroughly researched, ensuring they are not only secure but also good-looking and practical for all your travel adventures.
| Best Belt Bag | Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack |  | |
| Best Anti-Theft Backback | Pincnel Backpack Purse |  | |
| Best Mini | Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag |  | |
| Best Tote | Sherpani Cali Tote Bag |  | |
| Best Messenger | Travelon Messenger Bag |  | |
| Best Crossbody | Baggallini Everywhere Bag |  |
What Features to Look For in Anti-Theft Travel Bags
When you’re picking out an anti-theft bag, you want something that keeps your stuff safe without cramping your style. Here’s what I always look for:
- RFID Blocking: This keeps sneaky thieves from scanning your credit cards and passport.
- Locking Zippers: Slows down pickpockets, making it tough for them to get into your bag.
- Slash-Resistant Material: Prevents those quick cuts through the fabric that let thieves grab your valuables.
- Hidden Pockets: Perfect for tucking away your passport, money, and phone where no one can easily find them.
- Adjustable and Slash-Proof Straps: Fits just right and can’t be cut through by sneaky hands.
- Secure Locking Mechanisms: This lets you attach your bag to a table or chair, adding an extra layer of safety.
- Water-Resistant Material: Keeps your things dry, whether you get caught in the rain or spill your coffee.
- Comfortable Design: Padded straps and ergonomic designs make carrying your bag all day a breeze.
- Versatile Style: Something that looks good and matches your travel outfits, so you feel great while staying safe.
These features will help you find an anti-theft bag that protects your stuff and fits seamlessly into your travel adventures.
Which Are the Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags?
Finding a travel bag that’s both stylish and secure can be a game-changer for your adventures. After countless trips and a lot of research, I’ve found some fantastic anti-theft bags that I think you’ll love.
Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or hiking in the great outdoors, these bags will keep your belongings safe and give you peace of mind.
Let’s dive into my top recommendations!
1. Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack
My Favorite Anti-Theft Belt Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack
When it comes to keeping your belongings safe, belt bags are generally a great option.
My favorite is the Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack. I’ve even slept with it on night buses in South America, tucked safely under my clothes. It’s super secure and discreet.
Why I Love This Belt Bag:
- 5-Point Anti-Theft Security System: Features slash-resistant mesh lining, a slash-resistant strap, locking compartments, and an RFID-blocking organizer.
- Durable and Water-Resistant: Made to withstand dirt and water, perfect for all your adventures.
- Roomy and Organized: Has a roomy main compartment with a zippered pocket, an interior organization panel, a pen loop, a quick-access rear slip pocket, and a pull-out mesh water bottle pocket.
- Adjustable Strap: Fits waists up to 52 inches, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone.
It’s available in classic black and a cool army green, making it both functional and stylish. Whether you’re exploring a city or catching some sleep on a night bus, this bag has got you covered!
2. MAXTOP Large Crossbody Fanny Pack
Another Great Option: MAXTOP Large Crossbody Fanny Pack
While not as secure as the Travelon, the MAXTOP Large Crossbody Fanny Pack is fantastic for festivals and can be worn as a fanny pack or crossbody bag. I love this one because it has a sporty vibe and is super versatile.
Why I Love This Fanny Pack:
- Versatile Wearing Options: You can wear it in front, on your hip, slung across your chest, or over your shoulder. The adjustable strap fits waists from 20” to 50”.
- Spacious and Organized: It features four zippered pockets, perfect for carrying your phone, passport, keys, ID, and other small items. Ideal for hands-free activities like shopping, traveling, hiking, and festivals.
- Sporty and Functional: Includes a reflective loop for visibility at night and a headphone hole for easy access to your tunes.
- Secure Features: Has a creative key fob hook to keep your keys from scratching your phone and a theft-proof hidden zippered pocket on the back for your valuables.
- Durable and Comfortable: Made from high-quality, water-resistant fabric that’s durable and lightweight, ensuring long-lasting comfort.
Available in multiple styles and sizes, the MAXTOP fanny pack is perfect for those who want a sporty and practical bag for various activities. It’s my go-to for festivals and casual outings!
3. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
My Favorite Anti-Theft Purse: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
I’m usually not a fan of most anti-theft bags, but the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag is a game-changer. It’s stylish, super handy, and perfect for both travel and daily use.
The only downside is that it is quite small so it won’t hold everything.
Why I Love This Mini Shoulder Bag:
- Stylish Colors: Available in a range of beautiful colors to match your style.
- Slash-Proof Design: The bag and adjustable shoulder strap are built to resist cuts, keeping your valuables secure.
- Security Clip: You can attach the bag to a table or chair for extra peace of mind.
- RFID Protection: Built-in RFID-blocking slots safeguard your cards and passport from electronic theft.
- Locking Zippers: The main compartment features a lock to deter unwanted access.
- Compact but Roomy: It may be small, but it can comfortably fit a Kindle, a small iPad, keys, passports, sunglasses, and other essentials.
- Bright Interior: The bright interior lining makes it easy to locate your items.
This bag is perfect for big-city or weekend trips where pickpockets are a concern but you still want a purse that feels stylish. The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag strikes the perfect balance between security and style!
4. Baggallini Everywhere Bag
My Favorite Practical Crossover Bag: Baggallini Everywhere Bag
Dimensions: 36 x 9.5 x 12 inches
The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is a super practical crossover bag that’s become a favorite among travelers. Lightweight, stylish, and available in 15 colors, it’s a great companion for any trip.
The only thing is that it can seem a bit bulky if you put a love of stuff inside.
Why I Love This Bag:
- Anti-Theft Features: The crossbody design and zip closure enhance safety, and the RFID blocking feature keeps your cards and personal information secure.
- Water-resistant: Protects your electronics and belongings from unexpected weather changes.
- Ample Storage: The spacious main compartment can hold a raincoat, light sweater, small travel makeup pouch, iPad, and more. Plus, there are exterior zipper pockets for easy organization.
- Convenient Design: Includes a side pocket for a water bottle or umbrella and a sleeve to fit onto a luggage handle.
I’ve used this bag for city exploring and even for park picnics because it’s just so handy. The wider design makes it both spacious and stylish, making it a perfect choice for any traveler!
5. Travelon Messenger Bag
My Favorite Anti-Theft Messenger Bag: Travelon Messenger Bag
The Travelon Messenger Bag is an excellent anti-theft travel bag for anyone who wants extra security on the go.
This bag is packed with features to keep your belongings safe and organized. It has an RFID-blocking pocket to protect your sensitive information from electronic pickpocketing and an adjustable shoulder strap for a comfortable fit. The crossbody design adds another layer of security, making it harder for thieves to snatch it.
Why I Love This Messenger Bag:
- Multiple Compartments: Great for organizing your stuff with interior pockets, a slip pocket for quick access, and a zip pocket for added safety.
- Lockable Zippers: The main compartment has lockable zippers to keep your belongings secure.
- Slash-Resistant Strap: Extra protection with a strap that can’t be easily cut.
- Comfortable Fit: The adjustable shoulder strap ensures you can wear it comfortably all day.
Things to Consider:
- Size: It might be too large for some travelers who prefer a more compact bag.
- Style Options: Limited variety in styles, but it’s available in various colors to suit your taste.
Overall, the Travelon Messenger Bag is a popular choice for those looking to travel safely and stay organized. It’s practical, secure, and ready for any adventure!
6. Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody
The Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag is a favorite among travelers for its blend of security features and comfortable design. This stylish purse is packed with RFID-blocking technology, lockable zippers, and a slash-resistant shoulder strap to keep your belongings safe.
The adjustable crossbody strap ensures a comfortable fit, while the multiple card slots and internal pockets keep everything organized.
Why I Love This Crossbody Bag:
- Adjustable, Slash-Resistant Strap: This keeps your bag secure and comfortable to wear.
- RFID Protection and Locking Zippers: Protects your personal information and belongings from theft.
- Spacious and Organized: The main compartment fits an iPad mini, and the exterior slip pockets provide quick access to frequently used items.
- Stylish Options: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns to match your style.
Things to Consider:
- Size: The smaller size might not accommodate larger items.
- Strap Comfort: Some users may find the strap uncomfortable over long periods.
Overall, the Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a secure and stylish option. It’s perfect for keeping your essentials safe and easily accessible on the go!
7. Pincnel Backpack Purse
My Favorite Anti-Theft Backpack: Pincnel Backpack Purse
Dimensions: 12.99 x 5.90 x 13.28 inches
The Pincnel Backpack Purse is my top pick for a stylish and versatile backpack. It’s perfect for travel and everyday use, offering multiple ways to wear it—as a backpack, shoulder bag, or crossbody bag.
Why I Love This Bag:
- Anti-Theft Design: Includes a hidden pocket to keep your valuables safe from prying hands.
- Versatile Use: Easily switch between backpack, shoulder bag, and crossbody bag to suit your needs.
- Comfortable: Remains comfortable even when fully packed, making it great for long days out.
- Durable and Waterproof: Made from sturdy nylon and PU leather, it’s built to last and protect your belongings from the elements.
- Great colors: Available in classic colors like black, blue, dark red, brown, and more to match your individual style.
This Pincnel bag is stylish and practical for any occasion, providing plenty of interior and exterior pockets for storing essentials like an iPad, books, smartphone, wallet, and cosmetics.
It’s perfect for avid travelers or anyone taking public transportation, thanks to its large capacity and improved anti-theft protection.
8. Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Backpack
The Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Backpack is hands down one of the best anti-theft backpacks out there. It combines style and security in a way that’s perfect for any traveler.
The eXomesh Slashguard gives it a slash-resistant body, and the RFID-blocking pockets keep your sensitive info safe from sneaky scans. Plus, it’s got adjustable shoulder straps for ultimate comfort and a spacious main compartment that fits all your essentials.
The exterior water bottle and mesh pockets are super handy for on-the-go storage, and the lockable zippers make sure your belongings stay secure.
Why I Love This Backpack:
- Spacious Interior: Perfect for carrying larger items without feeling cramped.
- Comfortable Padded Straps: Makes it easy to carry, even when fully loaded.
- Stylish Design: Looks great and pairs well with any outfit.
Things to Consider:
- Higher Price Point: It’s a bit more expensive but worth it for the added security and features.
- Size: Might be too big for some travelers who prefer something more compact.
Overall, the Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to travel in style while keeping their belongings safe and secure.
9. Sherpani Cali Tote Bag
My Favorite Anti-Theft Tote: Sherpani Cali Tote Bag
The Sherpani Cali Tote Bag is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a spacious and stylish bag that offers extra security.
While tote bags are typically more open and worn over the shoulder, this one from Sherpani has several features that help keep your belongings safe.
Why I Love This Tote Bag:
- Functional Design: The main zipper compartment, front zipper pocket, interior water bottle pocket, slip pockets, and a back luggage pass-thru pocket make it perfect for organizing all your essentials.
- Unique Fabric: Made from a combination of 100% Mélange and Ballistic Nylon, it’s lightweight, water-resistant, durable, and even repurpose 30 plastic bottles!
- Anti-Theft Features: Includes RFID protection, an exterior zipper-lock tunnel, a clip lock for the main compartment, and a chair loop lock system. The bottom of the bag is lined with anti-slash fabric for added security.
- Comfort and Fit: Can be worn as a tote or shoulder bag with an 11-inch drop on the shoulder straps, making it versatile and comfortable for daily use.
- Stylish Options: Available in a variety of expressive colors to match your style, whether you’re using it for vacation, work, travel, or other activities.
Things to Consider:
- Openness: Like all totes, it’s a bit more open, but the added security features of this bag help mitigate that.
The Sherpani Cali Tote Bag is great for fitting a lot of items and is perfect for trips to the park or beach. It combines the convenience of a tote with the security features you need to keep your belongings safe.
Best Brands for Anti-Theft Travel Bags
When it comes to picking an anti-theft travel bag, trusted brands make all the difference. Here are my top picks:
- Travelon: Famous for security features like RFID blocking, slash-resistant materials, and locking zippers. They offer a wide range of styles from backpacks to crossbody bags.
- Pacsafe: Known for high-tech security features like eXomesh Slashguard and RFID-safe pockets. Built to withstand the rigors of travel.
- Sherpani: Combines security with eco-friendly materials and chic designs. Features like RFID protection, anti-slash fabric, and lockable zippers.
- Baggallini: Offers stylish and practical designs with RFID-blocking and durable builds. Great organizational features for travel essentials.
- Pincnel: Provides versatile, convertible bags with essential anti-theft features. Budget-friendly options without compromising style.
- SwissGear: Renowned for tough, practical bags with RFID protection and lockable zippers. Wide range of bags for all types of travel.
- MAXTOP: Perfect for active travelers with multiple pockets, adjustable straps, and anti-theft features. Great for everything from festivals to hiking.
Picking a bag from any of these brands means you’ll have a trusty travel buddy that keeps your stuff safe and your mind at ease. Whether you need a backpack, crossbody, or tote, these brands have got you covered.
Tips to Stay Safe While Traveling
Keep your travels safe and stress-free with these simple tips:
- Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
- Use Anti-Theft Bags: Choose bags with RFID blocking, lockable zippers, and slash-resistant materials.
- Hide Valuables: Keep expensive items out of sight and use hidden pockets or money belts.
- Secure Your Bag: Attach your bag to a chair or table when sitting down and always keep it zipped.
- Travel Light: Carry only what you need for the day and leave valuables in the hotel safe.
- Use Hotel Safes: Store extra cash, important documents, and valuables securely in your room.
- Blend In: Dress modestly and avoid looking like a tourist to not attract attention.
- Be Cautious with Strangers: Trust your instincts and be wary of overly friendly strangers.
- Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends or family and share your travel plans.
- Have a Backup Plan: Keep copies of important documents and have an emergency contact.
These tips will help you stay safe and enjoy your travels!
FAQs About Anti-Theft Bags
Yes, anti-theft bags work by incorporating features like RFID blocking, slash-resistant materials, and lockable zippers. These elements deter thieves and protect your belongings, making it harder for pickpockets to steal from you.
The best bag to avoid getting robbed is one with multiple anti-theft features like RFID blocking, slash-resistant construction, locking zippers, and hidden pockets. Brands like Travelon and Pacsafe are excellent choices.
The safest purse to travel with is one that includes RFID protection, slash-resistant materials, locking compartments, and a secure strap. Crossbody bags or backpacks from brands like Travelon or Pacsafe are highly recommended.
A good anti-theft backpack features RFID blocking, slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and secure straps. Comfort and durability are also essential, ensuring the backpack is practical for everyday use.
Yes, pickpockets sometimes cut purse straps to quickly steal bags. Anti-theft bags with slash-resistant straps are designed to prevent this tactic, making it harder for thieves to snatch your purse.
Conclusion
That’s it for this guide on the best anti-theft travel bags!
Whether you need a secure backpack, a stylish crossbody, or a spacious tote, there’s a perfect anti-theft bag out there for you.
Remember to pick one that offers the right mix of safety, convenience, comfort, and style. With the right bag, you can travel with peace of mind and focus on enjoying your adventures.
For more of my favorite bags, be sure to check: Best Travel Bags for Women | My Favourites You’ll Love
Safe travels!
//Josephine
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