The Best Anti Theft Backpacks and Bags for Work and Play

I’m slightly obsessed with travel “things”, and anti-theft bags are no exception. In today’s unpredictable world they offer me a sense of SECURITY, knowing my belongings are safe (as safe as possible anyways!). For me, an anti theft backpack provide peace of mind on the metro to work, while transiting through the airport or navigating the alleyways in a Moroccan souk.
Nowadays there’s so many options when looking for an anti theft bag. There are chic purses, functional duffels, backpacks, cross body bags, and everything in between.

The best anti theft backpacks are stylish, well designed and practical, whereas the best anti theft travel bag is durable and functional. I’ve bought and used many anti theft bags for travel and work, and I’ve bought and returned many more. I’ve narrowed it down to the absolute BEST in each category. These are HAND PICKED, tried tested and true recommendations…and I’m picky (just ask my husband, kids, neighbours….ha ha…you get it!!). If you’re looking for the best anti theft bags for travel and at home, keep on reading!

What Makes The Best Anti Theft Bag?

Anti Theft Features

With dozens of anti theft bags on the market and it’s hard to know which one to choose. You want one that looks good but is also functional, and provides the ultimate in anti-theft features. So what, exactly, are those?!

There are TWO main ways a common thief will try to steal from you. Thief #1 will attempt to sneak the zipper open and make off with whatever is closest to the zipper opening. Which, unfortunately, is often a wallet or passport! Thief #2 will either slash the straps and take the bag in it’s entirety, or slash the bottom and empty the contents quickly before getting away.
If it was a wallet, passport or phone that was right by the opening of the bag, thief number one has caused a massive nuisance. Thief #2 however, has taken the whole bag or all the contents of the bag, so they’ve likely got your passport, wallet AND phone…which is a much large PIA.

This is why a slash proof bag is so important imho!

Slash proof – This is the ultimate, #1 thing that makes an anti theft bag TRULY anti-theft. A slash proof bag has a metal mesh within the fabric that helps prevent the bag from being slashed open and everything inside stolen. It ALSO includes cords within the straps so they can’t be slashed and the whole bag stolen.

Locking Zippers – There are many different methods in which zippers can interlock. Some lock to each other while others lock to the bag. Truthfully, I don’t really care what the method is, as long as it slows the theft down enough for them to give up trying. I always silently curse when it takes longer than I want to open my bag, and then I remember it’s a good thing. If it takes me a few extra seconds to open a zipper that I know how to open, from just the right angle, then it’s pretty unlikely a pickpocket’s gonna get into my bag without me knowing.

RFID Pocket – Technology is wonderful and wicked all at the same time. The amount of personal information we carry in any one of our credit cards, ID cards or passport is enough for some random stranger to set up a very nice life in YOUR name! It’s something many people don’t think about as it isn’t as obvious as a pickpocket, but the ramifications can be significantly greater. I always carry my credit cards in an RFID protected wallet, and passports in an RFID pocket. It’s actually beyond my comprehension that people make passport holders that don’t have RFID protection…I just don’t understand!! For this reason, an RFID protection pocket is essential in an anti-theft bag.

Lockable – A lockable bag either has a small cable to secure it to a post or other luggage, OR a slash proof strap that can detach and be used for the same purpose. This feature isn’t 100% necessary for me. After traveling through 58 countries on 5 continents I’ve only used it once! We were traveling on an overnight train in India and the entire train car was made up of beds with no way to lock up our things. We put all our valuables and electronics in one bag and locked it to the table beside my bed. It wasn’t perfect, but it hopefully would’ve slowed a thief down long enough for me to wake up and realize what was going on. It was nice to not have to snuggle my bag the whole night, but I wouldn’t say this is a make-or-break feature.

Other Features To Consider

Size/Weight – The bag size are personal preference, however lightweight always wins in my book (as long as it’s still durable!).

Computer Sleeve – Some bags will hold an iPad only, whereas other will hold a 15″ computer AND iPad. Again, this is personal preference, but an important factor when purchasing the right bag for you.

Durability – If you’re looking for an anti theft bag you’re likely not solely commuting to work with it everyday in the comfort of your own vehicle. So, you’ll want a bag that’s going to stand up to whatever crazy adventure you get up to. No bag is going to last forever, but you want one made to withstand a few punches!

Water Resistance – Now, I know you don’t plan on being stuck out in the rain, but sometimes it’s beyond your control. This isn’t incredibly important for me because I always have a detachable rain cover in the bottom of my bag. However, one of my bags has a built in rain cover and it’s sure nice to have one less thing to worry about!

Cost – $ under $75USD, $$ between $75-150USD, $$$ greater than $150USD

The Best Anti Theft BackPack For Work & Travel

I used to buy travel-specific products and be completely okay with it. However, in an attempt to curb my unnecessary consumerism and reduce the amount of clutter in my house I now look for items that are useful both abroad and at home. Whether you’re looking for a travel specific backpack, or one that can do double duty, I’d recommend the same anti theft backpack.

Best Men’s Anti theft Backpack – XD Design Bobby Urban

The Bobby Backpacks are one of the original anti-theft bags, and they’re popular for a reason. The Urban design is one of their newer designs. I love it for men specifically because it’s a bit bigger and a looks more “manly” than their initial design. It’s also got lots of space and an expandable cord on the front.

Bobby Urban Details:

Locking zipper – no zipper, but there’s a steel padlock clip to close it
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – yes, using the padlock
RFID – yes, a zippered pocket on the shoulder strap. The downside – it’s only big enough for a credit card (cannot fit a passport).
Size/Weight – 22-27L, 1000grams
Computer sleeve – fits up to a 15” laptop and 13” tablet
Durability – 300D/600D PU Polyester
Water Resistant – Yes! Made of water repellant fabric
Style – it’s got great man-style, with a funky urban design
Functionality – water bottle compartment, padded internal dividers
Cost – $$

Buy the XD Design Bobby Urban Here!

Best Women’s Anti theft Backpack – Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti theft Backpack

This is one of my favourite backpacks as it’s so versatile. It’s super cute but is also loaded with anti theft features. I’ve used it wandering the streets of Europe, for business trips, and to and from work. It easily transitions between these without ever feeling out of place.

The main pocket is surprisingly spacious, and the side pockets are perfect for a filter water bottle, umbrella or camera tripod! The one thing I don’t love is that I have to rest the bag on something to open the zipper. The way it folds down at the sides makes it a bit tricky to open all the way on the run. This is something I can deal with, however, because I’m almost 100% certain no one else is getting into this bag without a whole lot of hassle and effort (including Randy!!)

 

PacSafe CitySafe CX Details:

Locking zipper – Front small pocket has a loop, larger pocket clips.
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – yes, using one of the straps.
RFID – one large pocket fits 4 passports.
Design/Weight – 17L, 1pound 8.8 oz
Computer sleeve – fits 13” laptop (you can also fit an iPad in with the laptop)
Durability – 100D Nylon Twill
Water Resistant – No
Style – it’s super stylish backpack with lots of colour options!
Functionality – water bottle pocket, padded slip through on back to tuck away straps or slip over luggage. There are two ways to carry it, as a backpack or using the small top straps.
Cost – $$

Buy the PacSafe CitySafe CX Right Here! 

Best Unisex Anti theft Backpack – XD Design Bobby Original Backpack

This was one of the first anti theft backpacks available. It was originally on kickstarter and is likely the most recognized anti theft bag on the market. It has a minimalist appearance and I love the built in USB port and power bank. The RFID pocket doesn’t fit a passport, which is why it hasn’t ended up in my collection! The three available sizes give some nice variety though, depending on individual needs.

Bobby Original Details:

Locking zipper – Yes
Slashproof – internal cut-proof protection board
Lockable – yes
RFID Protection – Small zippered credit card pocket on the shoulder strap. Can’t fit a passport.
Design/Weight – 13L, 885grams. It also comes in XL 15L (17” laptop) and Compact 11L (14” laptop).
Computer sleeve – fits 15” laptop and 10” tablet
Durability – 300D/600D PU Coated
Water Resistant – Yes, made of water repellant fabric
Style – sleek, minimalistic look available in many colours.
Functionality – USB port with internal power bank, luggage strap on back
Cost – $$

Buy The XD Design Bobby Original Here!

 

Cross Body Anti Theft Bags

Best Men’s Anti theft Crossbody Bag- Pacsafe Instasafe Z400 Anti theft Shoulder Bag

This was Randy’s first anti theft bag, and I had to put him on a waitlist for it! It fits a crazy amount of stuff, and has enough internal pockets that it’s easy to organize. The fabric is incredibly durable, and it’s got a very “manly” look, although this does mean the bag itself is a bit on the heavy side. The slash-proof strap means you can easily throw it over your shoulder and not worry about pickpockets when riding the metro to work or wandering a market abroad.

Instasafe Z400 Shoulder Bag Details:

Locking zipper – yes
Slashproof– yes
Lockable – yes
RFID – yes, small pocket (fits 2 passports)
Design/Weight – 2.4pounds, 19L (also comes in 15L size)
Computer sleeve – 2 sleeves, one fits 10” tablet, other fits 15” laptop
Durability – P600D Sprayed PU (very durable fabric)
Water Resistant – yes, water repellant fabric
Style – great city style
Functionality– 2 ways to carry, short handles and shoulder strap. Water bottle pocket, slip through pocket on back to fit over luggage handle.
Cost – $$$

Buy The PacSafe Instasafe Z400 Here!

Best Women’s Crossbody Anti Theft Bag – Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti Theft Tote Bag.

My favourite Cross body anti theft bag is this one. I can easily use this as my only bag for a weekend away for a business trip or fun travel. It’s JUST big enough to fit everything I need, it’s the perfect “mom bag”! But, it’s not just for moms!! It’s great for every on-the-go woman, whether you’re going with kids or not. There’s the right number of pockets with a large open space in the middle. It fits a small laptop, has two water bottle/umbrella pockets, and can be carried 2 ways. Best of all, it looks great!

Stylesafe Tote Bag Details:

Locking zipper – yes, small pocket is a loop, large pocket clips.
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – yes
RFID – large pocket (fits 4 passports)
Design/Weight– 14.5L, 1.16pounds
Computer sleeve– Fits 15” laptop
Durability – made of 150D Polyester
Water Resistant– no
Style– available in black and navy blue. Stitching detail, sleek design.
Functionality– Water bottle pocket, 2 ways to carry (short handles and long strap)
Cost – $$

Buy The PacSafe Stylesafe Tote Bag Here!

 

Anti Theft Purses

Best Women’s Anti theft Travel Purse (Medium Size) – Travelon 43328 Anti-Theft Signature Hobo

I love this hobo bag, especially the one that’s snakeskin print! It looks like a purse I’d buy anywhere, and you’d never guess it’s full of anti-theft features. It’s big enough to fit an iPad, and I love the water bottle pocket, an uncommon find in a purse! The RFID sleeves are nice, but it’s difficult to fit more than one passport in the passport sleeve (which is fine if you’re traveling solo!). The locking zipper is easy to get into, almost too easy! I think an experienced thief may be able to get into it, although it does require a bit of tugging which would hopefully alert you to their presence. This is always a trade off…it needs to be easy enough for you to get into, but not easy for a pickpocket!

Signature Hobo Details:

Locking zipper – yes
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – no
RFID – yes. Passport & credit card sleeves, no zippered pocket. Design/Weight – unknown weight or L, size 13.5”x8”x4.25”
Durability – made of nylon
Style – comes in 5 different colours, including snakeskin print
Functionality – 2 ways to carry, small strap and cross body strap. Large size interior compartment that will easily fit an iPad, expandable water bottle pocket
Cost – $

Buy The Travelon Signature Hobo Here!

Best Women’s Anti theft Purse (Small) – Pacsafe CitySafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Cross-Body Purse

I opted for a small purse rather than the medium size, so this is the one I own. It’s super cute, and doesn’t look like a “technical” purse at all. It’s on the smaller side, but I can fit an iPad mini when the top flap is expanded. It’s perfect as a companion to a backpack when you don’t want to constantly open up your backpack to pull out a phone or wallet. I also love it at the airport. The RFID pocket can fit our entire family’s passports, and then I can quickly tuck it into the top of my backpack when I’m boarding the flight.

Citysafe CX Convertible Cross Body Purse Details

Locking zipper – yes, small compartment loops, larger compartment locks
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – yes
RFID – large zippered pocket, can fit 4 passports
Design/Weight – 5L, 270g (9.5oz)
Computer sleeve – n/a, bit enough to bit an iPad mini when expanded
Durability – 100D nylon twill
Style – comes in a variety of colours, they seem to add more frequently. Orchid is my current fav!
Functionality – top flap folds over to small purse, but can extend to fit larger items.
Cost – $

Buy the CitySafe CX Convertible Cross Body Purse Here!

The Most Stylish Anti Theft Bags

There aren’t a whole lot of cute anti theft bags on the market, and until recently there was none! If you’re looking for high fashion anti theft bags I can’t promise that, but there are a number of stylish bags available. Pacsafe has come out with two different lines, Citysafe and Style safe, that have a variety of options with thoughtful design. Travelon also carries a few bags that fall into the “cute” category!

Travelon 43195 Anti-Theft Tailored Backpack

This is one of the cutest bags out there, and with the recent return to the mini-backpack craze it’s the winner in my books for the most stylish anti theft bag. It’s a good size mini backpack, and a great purse replacement. The biggest thing I always worried about with a mini backpack was how easy it would be for thieves to take it. But…you don’t have to worry about that now because of the slash-resistant straps!

Travelon Tailored Backpack Details:
Locking zipper– yes
Slashproof– yes
Lockable– yes
RFID– Passport and credit card sleeves with RFID, but no zippered pocket.
Design/Weight – 12”x11”x3.75”
Computer sleeve – iPad sleeve only
Durability– made of Nylon Twill, so moderate durability
Style – the most stylish anti-theft bag out there! Comes in 5 colours, including 2 bright colours
Functionality – it’s too small for an acual backpack, but works great as a purse backpack
Cost – $

Buy The Travelon Tailored Backpack Here!

 

Best Anti Theft Travel Bags

The Best Anti Theft Daypack For The City – PacSafe Metrosafe LS450 Anti-theft 25L Backpack

The Metrosafe is the winner here because it’s lightweight and incredibly practical. This bag is made for a great adventure, whether it’s to the office or up a mountain! When Randy recently purchased a backpack I tried to convince him to buy this one, but he loved his Instasafe Z400 crossbody bag so much he bought the matching backpack. It’s great, but the Metrosafe is a bit lighter with a larger capacity (25L is great for a multi-use daypack!).

Metrosafe LS450 Details:

Locking zipper – yes
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – yes
RFID – yes, large zippered pocket fits 4 passports
Design/Weight – 25L, 0.84kg (1.84lbs)
Computer sleeve – fits 15” computer
Durability – 650D Polyester, very durable!
Style – sleek, minimalist design. Available in 5 colours so there’s something for everyone!
Functionality – 2 water bottle pockets, but no rain cover or waterproof fabric. Cost – $$

Buy The PacSafe MetroSafe LS450 Here!

 

Best Anti Theft Daypack For Adventure – PacSafe VentureSafe X22 Anti theft Adventure Backpack

This is another anti theft back pack I currently own and love. It’s rugged, durable, comes with a built-in rain cover, and is ready for anything!! I can stuff it full and it still feels fine on my shoulders, and the exterior pockets are easily accessible but still safely locked up. It’s also adjustable enough that both Randy (at 6’2″) and Me (at 5′ nothing) can wear it comfortably. The RFID pocket lives on the front, which isn’t necessarily the safest place for it, however its more easily accessible. The pocket itself is zippered, and the front pouch has a locking zipper, so I don’t imagine anyone’s going to abscond with our passports easily.

Venturesafe X22 Details:
Locking zipper– yes, on all pockets
Slashproof– yes
Lockable – yes, one of the shoulder straps can detach
RFID – large pocket (fits 4 passports), zippered
Design/Weight – 22L, 2.14 pounds
Computer sleeve– Fits 13” laptop
Durability– Made of 210D double ripstop nylon, available in 3 colours black, bright blue and lime green. Also available in a 30L version.
Water Resistant – Comes with a built in rain cover.
Style – Sleek design
Functionality– System for hydration pack. Breathable straps. 2 water bottle pockets. Waist strap (non-padded). Also comes in a 30L size.
Cost – $$

Buy The PacSafe Venturesafe X22 Here!

 

Best Carry-on Size Anti Theft Luggage – Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti Theft 45L Carry-On Travel Pack

The Venturesafe EXP45 is the ideal carry on companion. At 45L it maximizes the capacity for carry-on only while still easily fitting within sizing limits. The straps store away for travel, so there’s no loose ends sticking out risking getting wrecked. With an RFID pocket, computer sleeve, and a few other small pockets in the front pouch, this bag is easily organized into the only bag you need. I find it a bit uncomfortable to carry on my small (5’0 frame), but Randy finds it comfortable.

Venturesafe EXP45 Carry-on Travel Pack Details:

Locking zipper – yes, lockable and puncture-resistant
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – yes, has a locking cable
RFID – yes, large zippered pocket in front pouch
Design/Weight – 45L, fits carryon dimensions, 3.81lbs
Computer sleeve – yes! Fits 15″ laptop, located In front pocket
Durability – 420D Nylon
Style– comes in 4 colours
Functionality – Water bottle pocket, compression straps, external attachment points, padded hip belt, straps store away for travel. Can carry 2 ways – as a backpack and with the side strap.
Cost – $$$

Buy the PacSafe Venturesafe EXP45 Here!

 

The Best Travel Anti Theft Bag (Full Size) – Toursafe EXP29 Anti-theft Wheeled Gear Bag

The need for something this size is beyond my comprehension at this point, however I know many people still pack a whole lotta stuff when they travel. If you’re one of those people…this bag is for you!! I figure if I was going to carry this much stuff, I’d much prefer to pull it rather than carry on. Pacsafe also has a number of standard duffel bags, but I can’t imagine carrying anything that heavy (not on my back!). This gear bag has all the safety features you’ll need if you’re traveling with expensive equipment or shoes! It’s a bit over-the-top for the average traveler, but if you’re looking for something secure, this is definitely it!

Toursafe EXP29 Details:

Locking zipper – yes, lockable and puncture-resistant
Slashproof – yes
Lockable – yes, has a locking cable
RFID – no
Design/Weight – 83L, 3.7kgs (8.16lbs)
Computer sleeve – no
Durability – 420D Nylon
Style– comes in black only, but
Functionality – Has compression straps, external attachment straps, a luggage ID slot and internal pockets.
Cost – $$$

 

THANKS for reading!!

Well, there you have it, my HAND PICKED best anti-theft backpacks for work and travel. I hope you found something that will work perfectly for you. If not…you can click on the links below and look for related products. There are SO many options (trust me, I’ve looked at ALL of them!!). I truly think these ones are the best, but everyone’s different so there might be something else out there that’ll work better for you.

You might also be interested in these Related Packing & Gear Articles:

• Travel Brands You NEED To Know!
• The Ultimate Electronics Packing List for a World Trip
• What To Pack For A Gap Year
• Carry-on Packing List for Multi-season Travel

 

If you’re also obsessed with travel gear (like me), or are simply looking for the perfect anti theft backpack…
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