Travel Safe: Best Anti-Theft Bags For Peace Of Mind

Anti-theft bags are designed to ensure your gear stays with you and offer peace of mind while travelling through bustling cities, unfamiliar public transit systems, and unfamiliar terrain. They are equipped with security features such as locking zippers, slash-proof materials, and RFID-blocking technology.

There are various types of anti-theft bags available, including belt and sling bags, crossbody bags, purses, and backpacks. Some popular brands in this category are Pacsafe, Travelon, Arden Cove, and Peak Design. These bags offer features such as locking zippers, slash-proof straps, and RFID-protected pockets.

When choosing an anti-theft bag, it is important to consider the level of security offered, the ease of use, and the overall design and functionality of the bag.

Locking zippers

The Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack, for example, has locking zippers on the main and back pockets. Using them adds a good five seconds to opening and closing the bag, which should be enough to deter any potential thieves. The Arden Cove Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody also feature locking zippers on the main and front compartments, which fit a 10-inch tablet. Meanwhile, the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 Daypack has lockable zips on the main and front compartments, making it impossible for anyone to get into the bag without being detected.

Zipper clips are small anti-theft gadgets that can be attached to zippers with holes in the pull tabs. They lock in place, but it is still possible to pull them apart. They are not the safest option, but they are decent for deterring thieves as they are not very intuitive to open.

Self-locking zippers are another option. These have a small mechanism that locks the zipper pulls in place automatically when there is no pressure on the pullers, or they can be pin-based, where small pins lock the zipper pull in place when you lower the tabs. Self-locking zippers are a good everyday solution as they offer some protection without the need to carry a padlock. However, they are not foolproof, and a thief who knows how to recognise and unlock them could still get into your bag.

For extra security, look for bags that combine locking zippers with other anti-theft features, such as slash-proof fabric, a shatter-resistant shell, or a hidden zipper.

Slash-proof materials

Some companies have developed their own cut-resistant fabrics. Cut-Tex PRO, for example, is a cut-resistant fabric used in protective clothing for security officers, covert operatives, and prison guards. The fabric is thin enough to be worn under uniforms and civilian clothing while still providing protection from knife attacks. Similarly, SlashPRO is a brand of PPE designed for security officers, covert operatives, and prison guards that incorporates Cut-Tex PRO fabric to protect against slashing injuries.

In addition to custom fabrics, there are also wholesale cut-resistant fabrics available on the market. For example, Alibaba offers a variety of cut-resistant fabrics, including a heavy coating of high-temperature-resistant silicone-coated aramid fabric and a high-strength EN388 Level 4 cut-resistant fabric.

Anti-theft bag styles

Anti-theft bags come in a variety of styles, including belt bags, sling bags, crossbody bags, purses, messenger bags, totes, and backpacks.

Anti-theft belt bags are slim and can be worn discreetly underneath clothing. The Lewis N. Clark Money Belt, for example, is designed to be worn around the waist and features RFID-blocking technology, durable rip-stop nylon, and self-repairing zippers.

Anti-theft sling bags are worn over one shoulder and can be adjusted to be worn across the body or around the waist. The Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack features a dual-release security clip and a slashguard strap made with Dyneema fabric.

Anti-theft crossbody bags are worn over one shoulder and across the body. The Arden Cove Grande Marina Convertible bag, for instance, has clip-on zipper pulls for extra security, slash-resistant nylon, and RFID card slots.

Anti-theft purses are typically smaller bags designed to carry essential items. The Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Crossbody bag features locking zippers, slash-resistant materials, and RFID protection.

Anti-theft messenger bags are similar to crossbody bags but often feature a longer strap that can be worn across the body or over the shoulder. The Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag offers a five-point anti-theft security system that includes slash-resistant mesh, a slash-resistant strap, locking compartments, and an RFID-blocking organizer.

Anti-theft totes are large bags with two handles that can be carried in the hand or over the shoulder. The Travelon Anti-Theft Urban Tote can also be used as a backpack and features slash-resistant materials, zipper clips, and RFID protection.

Anti-theft backpacks are designed to carry larger loads and are often used for travel. The Pacsafe CitySafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack can be worn as a backpack or folded down to be used as a handbag or crossbody bag. It features smart zipper security, cut-resistant fabric, and an anchor strap that can be secured to a fixed object.

Brand comparisons

When it comes to anti-theft travel bags, there are several brands to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here is a comparison of some of the top brands in the market:

Pacsafe

Pacsafe is a well-known brand in the anti-theft bag space and has a wide range of products to choose from. Their bags often feature locking zippers, slash-proof materials, and RFID-safe pockets. For instance, the Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag has a locking zipper system and a strap reinforced with Dyneema wire. The Pacsafe Vibe 100 Anti-Theft Hip Pack features a Roobar locking system and can hold a 7-inch tablet. The Pacsafe CitySafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack can be worn as a backpack or folded down as a handbag or crossbody bag and includes smart zipper security and cut-resistant fabric.

Travelon

Travelon is another popular brand that offers a range of anti-theft bags, including crossbody bags, backpacks, and messenger bags. Their bags typically feature slash-resistant materials, locking compartments, and RFID-blocking technology. The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Travel Bag, for example, has Travelon's trademark 5-point anti-theft security system, including slash-resistant materials, zipper clips, and RFID protection. The Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Backpack has a similar security system, heritage styling, and a well-thought-out internal organisation.

Arden Cove

Arden Cove offers stylish and professional-looking anti-theft bags, such as the Arden Cove Grande Marina Convertible Wallet and Belt Bag, which has zippers with clips and an RFID-protected interior. The Arden Cove MB Packing Backpack has a sleek, professional design with slash-resistant lining, lockable zippers, and an RFID pocket inside. However, Arden Cove bags tend to be more expensive than other brands.

Peak Design

Peak Design offers anti-theft bags with a focus on aesthetics and functionality. The Peak Design Everyday Tote has a wide opening with a weatherproof UltraZip and magnetic clasp for added pickpocketing protection. The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a subtle, non-descript design that doesn't attract thieves and features hidden pockets and lockable zippers.

Other Brands

In addition to the above brands, there are several other options available. Lewis N. Clark offers a money belt with an ultra-slim design, RFID-blocking technology, and self-repairing zippers. Baggallini provides crossbody bags with RFID-blocking technology and detachable straps, like the Baggallini Modern Pocket Crossbody. Matein offers budget-friendly options, such as the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, which has locking zippers and a well-thought-out internal organisation.

Vigilance and other anti-theft measures

• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like the metro or bus. Keep an eye on your bag at all times, and don't let it out of your sight.
• Keep your bag close to you and in front of you, rather than wearing it on your back. This makes it harder for someone to access and reduces the risk of theft.
• When sitting down, avoid placing your bag on the back of your chair or unattended. Always keep it within your line of sight and reach.
• Utilise locking zippers or clips on your bag to secure the compartments. This adds an extra layer of protection and makes it more difficult for someone to access your belongings.
• Consider using a money belt or vest with inside pockets to keep your valuables close to your body and hidden under your clothing.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or clothing that might attract unwanted attention.
• Be cautious when using maps or smartphones in public. Move out of the way and position your back against a wall to create a barrier between you and potential thieves.
• Keep your bag on the shop side rather than the street side of your body. This makes it harder for someone to grab and reduces the risk of snatch-and-grab incidents.
• Be extra careful in areas with high pickpocketing rates, such as busy tourist spots or public transportation.
• Always have a backup plan in case of theft. Keep copies of important documents like your passport, and store them separately from the originals. Additionally, have the contact information for cancelling your credit cards readily available.

While anti-theft bags with features like locking zippers, slash-proof materials, and RFID-blocking technology can provide added security, your vigilance and awareness are the most important factors in preventing theft. Stay alert, keep your belongings close, and take proactive measures to protect yourself and your valuables.

Frequently asked questions