Whether you’re looking for your next travel backpack or purse for daytime museum hopping, it can be a great idea to invest in anti-theft travel bags.
We’re talking about bags with RFID scanning protection, lots of locks, and secret pockets, while also being slash-proof and water-resistant.
So, an anti-theft bag will not only protect your valuable items, they are also very durable and long-lasting.
These bags also make great gifts for any backpacker in your life! It’s a gesture to show that you care about their safety, and something they’ll definitely be using for a long time.
Not sure where to start? Good news! We’ve compiled a list of the best anti-theft bags you can get for travel, which includes everything from large backpacks to compact sling bags and fashionable purses.
Want a quick answer? Our top pick is the Loctote Flak Sack II.
The best anti-theft bags for travel would have impeccable security features in their designs. Here are some things to look for in specific:
People nowadays can simply brush past you to take your electronic info, including from your credit card and passport. All they need is a special scanner.
So, it’s important that your bag has RFID blocking, which usually applies to a special compartment inside where you can store your important cards and identities. This will prevent accidents and identity theft.
The key to a great anti-theft backpack is solid locking ability. Some thieves are so skilled that you won’t even realize they have taken anything at the time. Which is something we were very wary of when roaming crowded markets in countries like India or Thailand.
Therefore, never leave your bag unattended when travelling! Some bags allow you to lock it close and also to other things, like trees or iron bars. They may even feature additional pockets with locks inside to protect against pickpockets.
We also recommend bags that are slash-proof, which means choosing strong fabric materials that won’t tear when thieves slash at your bag. This includes steel mesh and steel cables, which knives won’t be able to slice through.
Don’t underestimate your zippers either! Poorly made zippers can break easily even after minimal usage, which means you won’t be able to zip your bag fully and make it vulnerable to theft.
YKK zippers are among the most reliable and popular manufacturers in the world. They’re super durable and not easy to pry apart.
Next, consider getting waterproof bags that will make your trip so much easier. It has nothing to do with directly protecting against theft, but can prevent your clothing items and electronics from rain or even water spills. If you plan places like Ireland, where the weather is unpredictable, a water-resistant bag could be a life-saver.
Hidden compartments are a traveller’s best friend, no matter what. We’re talking about small, nondescript pockets hidden deep inside or on the sides of your bag. You can use them to keep some of your most important things.
From credit cards and passports, to cash and jewellery too. These secret pockets aren’t obvious and are hard to find.
Last but not least, don’t overlook the style and comfort of your travel bag! After all, you will be wearing them throughout the trip and any uncomfortable straps or padding may make it a nightmare to carry around…
Consider getting a bag with breathable fabric and adjustable straps, just to make it comfortable for you. Plus, make sure that the model fits your personal style and is in the size that you need!
Weight: 2 lbs (includes lock)
Capacity: 13 litres
Size: 18" x 14" (fits MacBook Pro 13 inch)
The Loctote Flak Sack II has to be our go-to choice for the best anti-theft bag in the market today.
If you want the best of the best and top-notch security, this is the bag you’ve been looking for.
It’s an awesome drawstring backpack with extra tough fabric, cut-resistant ropes, strong locking mechanism, and fleece-lined interior RFID blocking compartments.
We use this bag a lot and it's perfect for carrying all of our day-to-day gear like diabetes equipment, gym gear, or vlogging equipment. Or my 13 inch laptop on it's own if we're heading somewhere to work.
There’s also another pocket inside (10" x 8") that can hold an iPad Mini.
The main highlight of this bag is definitely the trademark Flaknit™ fabric, which is the ultimate innovation for anti-theft bags. It’s super slash-proof that can resist A9 cut level; the highest there is!
You don’t have to worry about slashes, tears, or abrasions anymore.
The straps are not only cut-resistant, they also have a patented double steel reinforced locking system and a combination lock so you can simply secure your bag to any heavy furniture.
Plus, there’s a sternum strap that will keep the drawstrings centered on your chest. It’s a super small detail but makes this bag comfortable to wear.
For your credit cards and e-passports, the fleece lining on the inner pocket shields have RFID blocking to prevent identity theft.
In terms of style, the Flack Sack II flaunts a pretty modish design too. It comes in three neutral colors (black, stealth black, and heather grey) and has lovely natural leather accents.
Not to mention it’s extremely lightweight - at only 2 pounds including the lock!
If you want something smaller yet equally safe and tough. we’d recommend the Loctote AntiTheft Sack 3L. This Is essentially a packable version that you can throw into your main bag and still protect your valuables.
All in all, this is an amazing day backpack you can bring with you while travelling, or even to use when running errands everyday.
Special Features:
Read more in our full Loctote Review.
Weight: 2.6 lbs (includes lock)
Capacity: 22 litres
Size: 20" x 13" x 6" (fits Macbook Pro 15 inch)
If you’re looking for a larger backpack with more shoulder support, go for the Loctote Cinch Pack. It’s also our top pick for a daily backpack you can use for both work or travelling.
Also a best selling product by Loctote, this is a tough and practical bag that comes with all their flagship security features.
It’s a timeless piece with a modern yet classic design style, using premium waxed canvas and full-grain leather for a durable build.
The Cinch Pack can fit most laptops up to 15 inches, while the interior pocket is also large enough to hold an iPad Mini.
Some days when traveling we require a lot of travel tech, like our blogging camera, drone and GoPro/action cams. If this is similar to you, then this would be much better fit.
The fabric is lightweight but slash- and tearproof, while also having a water-resistant coating.
Meanwhile, the backpack straps double as UHMWPE locking straps to protect your belongings.
We also love that the Cinch Pack has a hidden exterior pocket, in case you want to store something valuable but keep it somewhere that’s easy to access.
Special Features:
Weight: 0.71 kg
Capacity: 17 litres
Size: 39x27x16 cm
The Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Backpack is another excellent bag by Pacsafe.
It has a chic and stylish design without being too flashy, so you can maintain a sense of fashion while still blending with the crowds (this can be useful when travelling).
I got the Rose colour and I really love how it pops if you're wearing more neutral outfits!
The bag itself uses water-resistant 320D ECONYL® regenerated nylon Taslon, which feels very nice and is super easy to clean.
I also love the large loop at the top so you can carry it like a handbag when you don't want the weight on your shoulders.
Inside, there's a 16-inch laptop compartment and an RFID blocking pocket for your passport and cards, as well as a handy TurnNLock security hook.
The Citysafe CX has thinner straps than most travel bags I've reviewed, but this actually makes it more lightweight and helps set it apart from the standard models.
Plus, you will get a cut-resistant anchor strap so you can secure your bag around a bed, for example, to keep your belongings safe.
It's a very secure bag and can be a little bit fidgety to open, but that's exactly what you want with an anti-theft backpack!
Special Features:
Read our full review of the Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack
Weight: 4.5 lbs
Capacity: 40 litres
Size: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in
The Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack is a fantastic anti-theft bag for those of you need something large while still using only a carry-on.
At 40L capacity, it’s the maximum sized carry-on you can get, and can be suitable for a 1-week trip or longer.
It combines the organisation features of a suitcase and the compactness of a hiking backpack.
It’s super comfortable to carry, thanks to the sternum and hip straps, soft paddings, and load lifters.
In terms of interior, there are mesh pockets, padded sleeves for a 16-inch laptop and tablet, an organizer panel, and multiple small compartments, making it easy to pack everything.
The zippers are lockable too.
It’s overall a reliable and waterproof backpack made with durable hardware.
My only thing is that it feels bit heavier than most backpacks, but might be worthwhile if you’re going on a longer trip but still want the flexibility of a hiking pack.
For a slightly smaller option, Tortuga also offers the 30L version.
Special Features:
Check out our full Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack review here.
Weight: 3.2 lbs
Capacity: 30 litres
Size: 14.2" x 19.4" x 9.3"
The Skyborne Smart-Pack Plus has one of the sleekest designs I have ever seen. If you’re looking for something more unique and modern-looking, this might be for you.
It’s also easy to adapt from business to travel!
The fact that its combination lock is on the side of the bag also sets it to a high standard in comparison to other backpacks. This will make it harder for others to get into your backpack.
From the hardware to the design, everything has been designed and crafted with thought to best protect your belongings.
The comfort is amazing and there are a few hidden features and surprises ensuring that your belongings are visible but safe.
Not to mention that it’s waterproof, opens to 90 degrees for easy packing, and includes a liquids’ pouch, USB charging port, and padded tech sleeves!
Special Features:
Check out our full Skyborne Smart-Pack Plus here.
Weight: 1.3kg
Size: 31cm x 48cm x 18cm
The Alpaka Elements Backpack Pro is another sleek laptop backpack that comes with great anti-theft features, such as lockable zippers and a hidden front pocket.
This backpack has a lot to offer in terms of its strength and you can definitely tell the quality of the material.
It’s very similar to the Elements Travel Backpack in terms of style and interior, just with external features and designed for more urban usage.
Inside, you can store a 16-inch laptop in the suspended pocket.
The comfort is also where this bag excels. It features space cell foam padding on the shoulder straps, a contoured back panel, and a magnetic sternum strap.
There’s also a luggage passthrough for when you’re travelling, while the quick-access top pocket makes it easy for you to grab anything you might need quickly.
Not to mention the honeycomb ripstop nylon lining, weatherproof fabrics, and waterproof YKK zippers.
Special Features:
Weight: 10.41 oz.
Size: 8 x 7 x 1.1 inches
The MINICAT Small Travel Crossbody Purse might be the best anti-theft purse that is affordable, sleek and great at protecting your belongings.
It also makes for a pretty awesome gift for a friend or family member!
In addition to lots of color options, you can choose the “touch screen” variety for a clear window feature that lets you answer calls or check notifications without having to take out your phone from the bag. Just make sure to increase your phone’s touch sensitivity.
The RFID safe compartment features four credit card slots to ensure that you’re protected against unauthorized scanning and identity theft.
The bag itself has three main zipper pockets so you can easily organize different objects. You’ll find specific pen and glass slots, as well as snap-on closure for easy access.
Moreover, the adjustable shoulder strap means you can turn this into a crossbody, shoulder bag, or even a handbag.
Special Features:
Weight: 220 g
Capacity: 1 litre
Size: 14" x 6.5" x 2.4"
Bumbags (or fanny packs) are great. They’re small and hands-free, compact, and can be worn in addition to a larger backpack.
This Bobby Urban Cut Proof Bumbag from XD Design is a super functional anti-theft convertible bag with an impressive range of security features.
It looks just like any sleek and modern streetwear while providing a top-notch anti theft design.
It features a cut-resistant fabric material, lockable zipper, 3-points safe buckle, and RFID protection that will prevent identity theft.
But that’s not it! This versatile bag can transform into a crossbody or over-the-shoulder style, which means you can change them day to day to always freshen up the look.
Oh, the Bobby Urban Bumbag is also water-repellent. This means that your phone and important documents can be protected from light rain.
Special Features:
Weight: 1 lb. (includes lock)
Size: 11" x 12.5" x 3"
For the most stylish anti theft backpack you’ll find, the Signature Slim Backpack from Travelon is something you should be adding to your wishlist.
Just as its name suggests, it’s super slim and compact, but can still fit a Microsoft Surface. This bag is also very lightweight but jam packed with excellent features, including a unique light inside that you can use.
There are four stunning colours, but the grey one with a pink interior has to be our personal favorite!
The feminine style of the Signature Slim Backpack is truly elegant. You can easily wear it to the office, for museum-hopping when travelling to a new country, or even to a night out with friends.
In terms of security features, it comes equipped with the signature Travelon technology. From the 5-Point Anti-Theft security system and slash-proof mesh barrier, to a lock-down strap and RFID blocking organizer.
Not to mention that the main compartment features various pockets and hidden zippers to make sure that your valuables are kept safe.
Special Features:
Weight: 1 lb.
Capacity: litres
Size: 12" x 11.5" x 18"
Convertible bags can be your best friend when travelling. Imagine: a single bag that can transform into multiple models and styles!
The Baggallini Backpack Purse is our choice for an anti-theft convertible travel bag. Lightweight, practical, stylish, and safe - everything you need from a bag!
Its convertible design lets you choose between a comfy backpack and a gorgeous satchel, depending on your outfit that day.
Meanwhile, the practical design features locking zippers, RFID blocking protection, and thoughtful pockets in the interior. That makes organizing your items super easy.
The bag itself is also lightweight and made of slash-proof fabric that isn’t bulky at all. The fact that it’s just over a pound in weight also means it’s perfect to take on any day trip.
Special Features:
Capacity: 40 litres
Size: 21x13x7 inch
The Inateck BP03001 is an excellent laptop backpack for travel, as well as for everyday use.
With an amazing capacity of 40L, this can easily be your carry-on backpack when travelling on airplanes or trips.
It can fit up to a 17-inch laptop and your clothes too! So, if you want to hop on a short trip and use a compact anti-theft bag, this could be it for you.
Inside, you will find two laptop and tablet compartments, two change pockets, a toiletry bag, and a lot of other smaller pockets to organize your stuff. Not to mention a hidden back pocket and two roomy front pockets!
The backpack itself is quite lightweight, considering its capacity and security features. There are also handles on the side and a strap to fix it on your trolley.
Whether you’re a globetrotter, student, or someone looking for a secure work bag, the Inateck BP03001 is a pretty awesome choice.
The exterior is scratch and splash resistant. Plus, it comes with a rain cover that can ensure your travel laptop remains dry during heavy rain.
Don’t worry about the security too, thanks to the dual zipper design and double lock heads.
Special Features:
Weight: 1 lb 14 oz
Capacity: 25 litres
Size: 18.9 x 11.8 x 6.7 in
While a lot of the bags we’ve featured so far are big enough for a laptop or two, if you want something especially large, your best bet is the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450.
While it may not be the 40L that the previous Inateck bag offers, its 25L space is still large enough for all your necessities without being that bulky. Great if you travel with a range of tech like travel drones.
It’s a classic anti-theft travel bag that will keep your valuables safe as you explore hidden gems in a new city… an ideal bag for your next city break.
From cut proof fabric and lockable zippers, to being able to fix your bag to heavy objects, this beast will give you the confidence to travel carefreely.
It also comes with RFID protected pockets for your passport and cards, while the attachment hook inside ensures that your wallets and keys are easy to reach.
We also love the sleek, simple, and nondescript look of this bag, which means it will not attract any attention when you travel.
With multiple internal pockets, a pen loop, and padded sleeve for your laptop, it truly is designed with the modern traveller in mind!
Oh, have we mentioned the water bottle pocket too?
Special Features:
Weight: 2.3 lbs
Size: 11 x 5 x 17 inches
Oscaurt offers a really diverse range of unique designs for their anti-theft bags, which is great if you don’t want something plain and boring.
But that’s not to say that their simple designs are drab, because we absolutely love how elegant and urban they are!
It is made of durable cut and scratch resistant fabric, and features a hidden pocket at the back. This is where you can keep your cash or jewelleries, as they’d be impossible to reach when you’re wearing the back.
Meanwhile, the main pocket itself has hidden zippers that will slow down potential thefts.
We love that it comes with a built-in charging cable and USB port, so you can easily charge your devices while on the go.
In terms of ergonomics, we have to give it to Oscaust for providing adjustable shoulder straps that are wide, padded, and ultra comfortable to wear.
Special Features:
Weight: 1.1 lbs
Size: 18.7 x 12.4 x 7.7 inch
This MarsBro Laptop Backpack is a durable anti-theft backpack perfect for travellers looking for a big enough bag for their laptops.
It can fit a 15.6” laptop in addition to an iPad. There are two special pockets for cameras, making this a potential camera backpack as well. There's also a zippered compartment for your valuables and a specific pocket for a power bank.
What’s quite unique is that this bag features a built-in charging cable and external USB. AND a card pocket on the strap and hidden back pocket.
Pockets and slots that aren’t easily visible are great because they don’t attract the attention of pickpockets.
The design really is all about convenience!
If you worry about comfort when carrying a loaded backpack, this one won’t disappoint. The MarsBro bag features a balanced weight design with breathable back fabric and s-type straps.
Meanwhile, the exterior fabric is water-resistant so you can be sure that your belongings are protected under light rain.
Special Features:
Weight: 6.3 lbs
Capacity: 24 litres
Size: 11.8 x 14.2 x 1.2"
Here’s another excellent product from XD Design to conclude our list: the Bobby Backpack Trolley.
It is for those of you who want a large anti-theft bag for travel to fit a 17" laptop and much more.
While the 24-liter capacity and 6.3-pound weight mean it’s not as lightweight and compact as the other bags we have mentioned, it doubles as both a trolley and backpack.
It’s convenient and practical if you frequently travel and big enough to include everything in your packing list for hassle-free travel.
In addition to the TSA lock, it also has all the trademark Bobby anti-theft features that you love.
This bag is cut resistant, has RFID protection pockets, water-repellent fabric, and safety strips that illuminate.
Plus, the interior features separate compartments with an easy-access laptop sleeve. These are all made from RPET recyclable materials and have the innovativeAWARE™ tracer and blockchain technology.
Special Features:
Sure, anti-theft bags can be more costly, but investing in one is definitely a good choice. Thefts nowadays have become more elaborate and creative, and it’s so easy to be a victim without even realizing it.
From slash-proof exteriors to lockable zippers and cut-resistant straps, these bags are designed to slow down and deter thieves and pickpockets. Not to mention RFID blocking that will protect you against identity theft! Trust us, there’s no such thing as being too careful, especially if you are travelling to new places.
At the end of the day, it all depends on what kind of style you’re looking for. If we had to give one recommendation, it would be the Loctote Flak Sack II. It comes with all the security features you’ll need when travelling like RFID blocking, slash-proof fabric, tough and cut-proof ropes, and patented locking system.
But what truly sets this bag apart is its beautiful drawstring model that is elegant and chic, so that it won’t attract attention as an anti-theft bag.
The MINICAT Small Travel Crossbody Purse has to be the best anti-theft purse for travel. It’s simple yet sleek; durable yet cheap. Its RFID blocking protection can help you avoid identity theft. Meanwhile, the built-in card slots and various compartments make it easy to organize your stuff too!
In general, an anti-theft pocket in a bag could refer to several different things, though all share one purpose: protect its content from theft. First, the pocket could be concealed from view and is hidden in obscure places inside the bag that is hard for a pickpocket to reach into.
It may also refer to RFID blocking, which is a technology that prevents unauthorized scanning of your credit cards and other identity cards.
There really are so many anti-theft bags for travel out there, each with their own unique features and designs.
Our number one recommendation is the Loctote Flak Sack II as it has everything you need to keep your belongings safe when travelling.
We understand that everyone might have their own preferences, which is why we’ve put together this handy guide for you!
Hopefully, you will find the perfect travel bag that can protect yourself against theft. Good luck!
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