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How To Choose The

Best Sling Bag

The minimalist's guide to selecting a sling bag for travel, everyday carry, and beyond.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 04. Function
• 05. Aesthetic
• 06. Conclusion

Ready to embrace the sling bag trend? Step one: read this guide.

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The Short Answer: The Best Sling Bags for Travel, EDC, and Beyond

Click for more information about these top picks and why we like them.

• 8.7/10: Aer Day Sling 3
• 8.6/10: Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L
• 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Side Effect
• 8.3/10: Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L (V2)
• 8.3/10: Mission Workshop Spar Sling
• 8.3/10: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
• 8.3/10: Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• 8.2/10: Chrome Industries Kadet
• 8.2/10: Patagonia Atom Sling
• 8.2/10: Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• 8.1/10: EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack 3.5L

How to Choose the Best Sling Bag for Travel and Beyond

The ’90s are back and with them, the slightly edgier, far more hipster cousin of fanny packs—sling bags (and scrunchies, but that’s a guide for another time). Sling bags are, yes, a fashion statement, but also a convenient way to carry the essentials while traveling the world. Think of them as the middle ground between a backpack and your pockets.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through how to choose the best sling bag for your situation, which means diving into all of the different aspects and explaining what works best for a variety of situations. We’re also going to provide some specific sling bag recommendations based on months of testing.

This guide is written and informed by the Pack Hacker team, all of whom are gear fiends, and some of whom have been wearing sling bags since before they were cool (#hipster). Testing and reviewing gear is our bread and butter here at Pack Hacker—our team of world travelers and digital nomads have tested and reviewed hundreds of different types of travel-specific gear at this point. In fact, we have used nearly all of the sling bags mentioned in this guide (and we’ll be getting our hands on those we haven’t very soon).

By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be a sling expert with all the knowledge necessary to find the best sling bag for you—or your mom, your friend, your dog, etc.

Remember, there’s no one sling bag to rule them all, there’s just the best sling bag for you . So we highly suggest reading our complete guide to figure out your best fit (your future favorite one might not have made this list).

Video Overview: 10 Sling Bags | Should You Travel With One?

Feel free to watch this guide overview in video format. We’ll go more in-depth in the written content and keep this page up to date.

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What is a Sling Bag?

This question is not as straightforward as it seems. It’s taken a team of six bona fide gear reviewers analyzing 50+ sling bags and hip packs for over two months to come up with an answer we can all get behind (and there’s still some ambiguity).

Here’s the definition we’ve landed on: A sling bag is (drum roll, please…) a bag that’s designed to be worn comfortably across the chest or back and secured to the body with a cross-shoulder style strap. The buckle tends to be off-center, the straps connect diagonally, and the body of the bag tends to have an oblong shape—we say “tends to” because there are quite a few exceptions, which we’ll get into later.

One small clarification is that while sling bags and messenger bags have a similar thing going on with the single, crossbody style of strap—the two aren’t synonymous. Messenger bags are usually bigger, boxier, and don’t contour to the body, but there’s no exact science. Really, you can go with your gut here. We tend to think you’ll know a messenger bag when you see one.

There is a massive variety of sling bag styles out there, including tactical slings (for outdoor sportsman stuff), high-fashion slings (think Gucci), and backpack slings ( spacious enough for a laptop ). While we’ll touch on those, we’re mainly going to focus on sling bags for travel in this guide.

What’s the Difference Between a Sling Bag and a Hip Pack?

You’ll see people on the internet equating sling bags with hip packs (or waist packs, fanny packs, bum bags, belt bags, whatever you want to call them), but sling bags and hip packs aren’t one and the same. We repeat: sling bags and hip packs are not the same things.

Simply put, a hip pack is the rebranded fanny pack, while a sling bag is something different (it’s the hipster cousin, remember?). A hip pack can almost always be a sling bag, albeit not necessarily a good one, but a sling bag is virtually never a hip pack (like a square is a rectangle, but a rectangle is not a square).

That said, almost every single company out there has its own definition of a sling bag and a hip pack. To make things even more complicated, some companies will throw in the term “crossbody bag” to describe what we consider a sling bag. So, it gets messy—and our rules and definitions are by no means absolutes.

In this guide, we won’t be discussing hip packs. Getting into the nitty-gritty of sling bags is complicated enough.

Why a Sling Bag?

Now that you know what a sling bag is, let’s talk about why one will change your life (or, at the very least, make carrying stuff easier).

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your In-Flight Essentials

Since wearing one backpack on the front and one on the back hasn’t caught on yet (yes, we’re surprised too), a sling bag becomes a great place to keep your pocketable items, especially while in transit. Just toss all of your stuff in your sling and throw the entire thing in a bin as you breeze through airport security like a pro, thus avoiding the much-dreaded “security shuffle.”

And, unlike pockets, a sling bag will fit almost everything you could ever want in-flight (within reason—a masseuse obviously won’t fit). Of course, what you carry in your sling bag is as unique as you are. Here are a few suggestions based on what works for us:

• A smartphone
• Snacks (arguably the most important)
• Tech chargers
• Battery bank
• Earplugs (every plane has at least one crying baby, even if it’s your own; it’s like a law of physics or something)
• Notebook and pen (something about being at 35,000 feet gets the creative juices flowing)
• An e-reader or book (depending on your sling; some are too small to fit one)

Once in flight, you can use a carabiner to hook your sling bag to the seat in front of you. That way, you can quickly grab a snack before you get hangry, some tissues because the movie you picked happens to be a lot sadder than you thought it’d be, or a phone charger because Tetris drains battery life surprisingly quickly. You know, only the essentials.

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your Day Trip Essentials

Similar to the above perk, a sling bag may just be the perfect accessory for a day trip. Sometimes all you need are the basics—wallet, keys, phone—and while pockets may get the job done, 1) some clothes lack practical pockets, 2) skinny jeans are a thing, and 3) some clothes don’t have pockets at all. (*cough* Women’s clothing! *cough*)

Even if you are #blessed with useable pockets, some day trips require a few “extra” items, although not quite enough to make lugging around an entire backpack worthwhile. A sling bag allows you to bring:

• Extra camera lenses
• Extra camera batteries
• Snacks (still the most important)
• Nintendo Switch (a gamer’s gotta game)

Sling bags truly are the middle ground between a daypack and your pockets. If you’re usually a daypack kind of person, switching to a sling bag forces you to think about what you’re bringing. And your back will thank you for leaving that copy of War and Peace behind because, let’s be honest, you’re just going to look at memes on your smartphone anyway. Alternatively, if you’re usually a pocket kind of person, you can avoid overly-full pockets and think less about what you’re bringing, tossing all sorts of fun goodies into your sling bag just because you can.

Sling Bags Are Lightweight and Packable

Sling bags—specifically ones designed for travel—weigh almost nothing and can easily lay flat in your travel backpack . You can pack it and forget about it until you require your sling’s services (see the above perk).

Sling Bags Provide Easy Access

Sling bags are ridiculously easy to get in and out of. When worn on your chest, the pocket(s) is (are) literally right under your nose, and when worn on your back, you can shift it around to your front. However, beware of the T-Rex arms that can happen when the sling bag is worn high on your chest (yeah, you knew exactly what we were talking about as soon as we said “T-Rex arms,” didn’t you?).

Sling Bags Are En Vogue

At least for the time being, sling bags are “in.” You’ll find them in pretty much every high street store, and even luxury brands like Louis Vuitton are selling them. We don’t know about you, but we love it when fashion and convenience merge.

Other Use-Cases for Sling Bags Include:

• Festivals (both for convenience and trendiness)
• Everyday carry (especially for those who cycle to work)
• Hiking and outdoor adventuring
• Exploring cities
• Amusement parks
• A million other things

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One of our favorite slings may just become your favorite sling.

We dig the Aer Day Sling 3 so much that it was one of our first-ever Pack Hacker Picks—an exclusive list of our favorite travel products. You might be thinking, that’s great, but why do you like it? Well, let’s talk about it.

We’ve used this sling all over the globe, from the United States to Thailand and South Korea. The front pocket is a solid place to stow quick-use items like sunglasses and hand sanitizer, and the main compartment works well for the bulk of our gear like a wallet and battery bank. This is a great sling if you’re into organization but still like having the freedom to store large items, as there’s plenty of room leftover for bulky gear like a hat and gloves. In addition to intuitive storage, this pack stands on its own thanks to a flat base and has an easy-to-use magnetic FIDLOCK buckle on the strap.

The primary material is 1680D CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon, which is highly durable, water-resistant, and gives the sling a sleek look that looks good in pretty much any setting. There’s an X-Pac version, too, which is ideal if you’re looking for something more lightweight, though it sounds a bit crunchy in our experience. The zippers are from YKK, and the other hardware is from Duraflex, which are two of the best brands in the business.

Why We Like It

• The flat base enables it to stand up, so it’s easy to load up before leaving home
• The materials and hardware are incredibly durable

What You Should Know

• There’s no organization in the front pocket, so you may need to fish around for what you need
• We’ve had experience with the FIDLOCK buckle coming disengaged while we’re wearing the sling, though it’s not often enough to cause major concerns

If you’re looking for a smaller sling that you can take anywhere, the Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L might be the best sling bag for your next trip. It has Bellroy’s signature look: durable materials, capable hardware, and a thin strap that you’ll either love or wish had more padding. We think it’s enough because the sling’s size is pretty proportional to the strap, but it’s worth considering if you prefer extra cushion.

The primary material here is Bellroy’s Canva Ripstop, which feels a little rough in the hand but offers high durability and excellent water resistance. That’s paired with YKK AquaGuard zippers, which ensure no water sneaks through the openings in the pack. To top it all off, the self-compression design helps create a natural sleek look no matter how packed out the sling is, which we dig.

Inside, we’ve got two compartments to work with. The secondary pocket has a divider in the center, making it easy to segment small gear rather than it getting jumbled together. As for the main compartment, it’s a simple design with just enough organization to keep your items in check, including a structured slip pocket for your phone and a raised zippered pocket to keep your sunglasses from getting crushed. The 2.5L capacity is the perfect amount to stow all the gear you’d typically keep in your pockets (plus a little extra) to ensure your day is comfortable, whether walking to get Gelato or hiking up a mountain.

Bellroy has multiple Venture slings in multiple sizes, though they have a slightly different design to this one from the Venture Ready line, which is designed to handle more rugged adventures. That said, we like those other slings, too, so you’ve got plenty of size options if this 2.5L sling is a bit too small.

• The self-compression strap ensures a comfortable fit, no matter how packed out the sling is
• There’s a divider in the front pocket which helps organize small gear
• We’ve experienced the magnetic buckle coming disengaged when pushed at a specific angle
• Though they’re not uncomfortable, the materials are a bit more rugged than we often see in slings

If you’re into versatility, now’s your time to shine. This sling bag is more of a 4-in-1 all-purpose pouch that can be carried as a sling, as a waist pack, with a handle loop, or attached to a key ring (which can then be hooked to a bag or your belt). Or, remove the strap entirely and use it as a 3D organizer in your luggage, as it’s just the right size for toiletries, tech, jewelry, and the like.

That said, this is a guide to help you find the best sling bag for your next trip, so we’ll focus on that. The front pocket is simple and works well for stowing a passport or other quick-use items. Meanwhile, the main compartment has two liner pockets, which are perfect for your wallet, phone, or headphones. Plus, in trademark TOM BIHN fashion, there are four O-rings throughout the bag. These are handy for attaching additional pouches to hold smaller gear you don’t want to lose in the depths of the main compartment, like ChapStick or dongles.

In typical TOM BIHN fashion, there are tons of material and colorway choices available. They’re constantly adding and switching out specifics, so we won’t dive into them. Since TOM BIHN is a leader in durable, well-engineered gear, you really can’t go wrong with any of the options. Simply put, they make gear to last through the materials they utilize, the designs they employ, and the hardware that brings it all together.

TOM BIHN’s style may feel as if it’s stuck in the 1990s, but we’re all in for a hint of nostalgia and their gear’s durability, combining to make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The materials, hardware, and design are durable and timeless, so you’ll have this sling for years without it going out of style
• You can customize the interior using O-rings to attach extra pouches
• The design can feel more like a handbag than a sling
• The strap gets twisted fairly easily

As the name describes, the second iteration of the Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L is meant to be used as a daily driver, whether you’re commuting to work or crossing the globe. Before we dive too far into this particular model, it’s worth noting that there are 6L and 10L versions of this bag, too, so you can size up if you feel that three liters is too limiting.

The exterior is crafted from 100% recycled 400D double poly-coated and DWR-impregnated nylon canvas, which is a fancy way of saying that it’s highly durable and water-resistant. The zippers were created in a partnership between Peak Design and Zoom, meaning they were designed to be used exclusively on Peak Design packs, so it’s no surprise that they work so well.

There’s an exterior pocket with no organization, which is a stellar spot to stow camera accessories if you’re using this as a photography bag or pocketable items like a phone or wallet. The main compartment was designed to be versatile, offering storage for a mirrorless camera and two small lenses (or one larger one), but you can utilize it for your everyday carry gear, too. There’s a quick-grab pocket that has organization for smaller gear, like chargers or adapters.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking for a bag to take on your next trip or looking for something to commute across the city with to get to work, this is one of the best sling bag models on the market regarding durability, weather resistance, and versatility.

• The exterior is designed to protect your gear from the elements—an essential feature of a camera-focused bag
• It can be used to stow camera gear or everyday carry equipment
• We’ve noticed that the back panel won’t sit flat against your body when the bag is completely full, which impacts carry comfort
• Oblong-shaped items stored in the front compartment can make it look bulky

The Mission Workshop Spar Sling is one of the larger packs on this list, coming in at eight liters. In fact, it’s so large that it can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, too. Are you interested yet? We thought you might be.

The exterior is crafted from Dimension Polyant VX-07 Diamond Ripstop or 500D Multicam® CORDURA®, depending on your chosen colorway. Both are durable, highly water resistant, and give the pack a sleek look. It’s heavier than other slings of this size that we’ve tested, but the strap does a great job balancing the weight.

There’s only a little organization present here; however, for a sling of this style, we prefer it like that. Eight liters is a lot for a sling, but considering it can carry your laptop, there’s probably a lot of gear you want to bring alongside your computer. If there was a ton of segmentation, your gear might be more organized, but you wouldn’t be able to fit as much inside because you’d be confined to the size of the included pockets. With this sling, you can fit your computer, charger, and other everyday carry and tech items inside for trips to the coffee shop, office, or back home after a long day of exploring—maybe just store small gear in a couple of pouches to keep it from getting jumbled together.

Plus, you can wear the Mission Workshop Spar Sling in sling, crossbody, or messenger modes, so you can switch things up if one way becomes uncomfortable. Considering its size and versatility, this might be the best sling bag for your next trip. Or, one bag it, and see what you can’t live without!

• You can fit up to a 15″ laptop inside
• There are three carry methods to meet your specific travel needs
• It’s heavy compared to slings of a similar size we’ve tested
• There isn’t a ton of organization, so you’ll need to DIY it with pouches and cubes

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a lightweight mini sling. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack has just a liter of capacity; however, its 3.5-ounce weight makes it a versatile travel companion. It’s crafted from ripstop nylon, which is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

The front pocket is just big enough to stow a pair of headphones, a small charging cable, or a pack of gum. You’ll find more organization in the main compartment for large gear, and there’s a zippered pocket items you want to keep separate. There isn’t much segmentation here, which we’re not mad about, because too much organization would take up valuable space in this tiny sling. Since it’s so small, you can pack it into your carry on luggage or travel backpack and take it out once you arrive at your destination to carry around the city.

To assist in that plight, the Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack packs into its own pocket, fitting into the palm of your hand once zipped up. This makes it easier to bring it on a trip if you don’t know whether you’ll need it or not. No matter where you’re going, who doesn’t need a little extra space?

• It packs into itself to save space in your travel bag, which is handy if you’re not a frequent sling user on trips
• The ripstop design adds durability to the lightweight material, so you don’t sacrifice weight for reliability
• The look is somewhat sporty, so it’s difficult to dress up with an outfit
• It can be challenging to fit gear into the small pocket

The Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket may look large upon initial inspection, but it comes in at a singular liter because of how thin it is. The primary external materials are 800D nylon and 660D polypropylene DYECOSHELL, which is a sustainably sourced, durable material that gives the sling a speckled look. It’s durable as heck, too, which we’re here for. After nine months of use, we’ve noticed some slight fraying on the edges of the fabric, but it isn’t compromising the sling—it’s more of an aesthetic issue.

There’s ample organization inside the main compartment considering this sling’s capacity, which makes stowing and finding your wallet, phone, or tiny tech (think headphones or charger) easy. For this reason, we love taking this sling onto a flight as a personal item. It won’t weigh you down or cause discomfort, but you can still stow and find all of the gear you need pretty quickly. Because it’s so tiny, the carry can sometimes feel lopsided if you have something heavy on one side of the sling. That said, as you get used to carrying this thing, you can remedy that issue by finding where your gear best rests to offset weight distribution.

• The organization is thoughtful and doesn’t get in the way, which is a rarity for such a tiny sling
• The materials and hardware are durable despite some cosmetic damage over the course of our testing
• Heavier items can create an unbalanced carry experience
• The edges of the fabric will start to fray over time

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a cross between a messenger bag and a sling bag, which means that it has features from both that make it a candidate for the best sling bag. At nine liters, there’s a ton of space to work with. However, that also means it has a pretty big footprint, which may be challenging for those with small frames to get used to. It’s 17 inches on the long edge, which is as tall as some capable daypacks we’ve tested.

The exterior is clad with 1050D nylon and YKK zippers, which have held up well in our testing. The buckle is Chrome Industries’ trademark seat belt style, which offers a unique heritage style along with a durable, reliable closure.

The secondary compartment has no organization but is fairly large, so you can stow daily items you might want quick access to here. Think sunglasses, a phone, a wallet, or a transit card. You won’t find much more organization inside the main compartment. There’s a divider pocket for a tablet or book and a few smaller iterations that work well for everyday carry gear like a bike tool or flashlight. The rest of the space is yours to work with, meaning there’s enough room for a packable rain jacket, tech pouch, or other large gear.

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a solid bet if you’re okay with heavier materials and minimal organization. Seriously, this thing is durable, and you can fit a ton of gear inside. This might be the best sling bag for rugged adventures or those with a tough commute.

• The materials are durable, and the hardware is unique (especially if you like seat belt buckles!)
• The main compartment has a ton of space for stowing large items that won’t fit in most sling bags
• It’s very long, so it may feel too large on smaller-framed travelers
• The lack of organization can be overwhelming for those who are used to every piece of gear having a home

If you were around in the early 2000s, you might remember a fad where kids were wearing sling-style backpacks to school. Many popular brands made them, and you were only cool if you had one. If you couldn’t get one back then, there’s still time! Enter the Patagonia Atom Sling.

This thing offers a hint of nostalgia paired with Patagonia’s commitment to making durable gear with a purpose. The high-tenacity nylon is partially recycled and perfect for more rugged trips. On the other side, the shoulder strap and back panel are amply padded and aerated to promote comfort, whether crossing the city or taking a strenuous day hike. For gear that won’t fit inside, there’s a compression system on the pack’s front where you can attach items like a rain jacket or small tripod.

The quick-grab pocket is perfect for snacks, your phone, or your wallet. Inside the main compartment is a tablet sleeve and ample open space to stow whatever else you need for the day, from a tech pouch to a bag of chips.

The shoulder strap can only be worn on your right shoulder, which you might remember if you had one of these in middle school. Similar to the weight of textbooks, travel gear can get heavy, which can cause discomfort during long days of wandering around a new place. You can always wear it on your front side to relieve any stress your right shoulder might be experiencing, but we think that looks goofy. To each their own, though.

• There’s ample padding on the back panel and shoulder strap to increase carry comfort
• The simple organization because it’s still effective in keeping your gear organized
• You can only wear it over your right shoulder, so lefties may want to look elsewhere
• It has a sporty look that’s hard to make look, well, not sporty

The Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag is a unique sling bag for several reasons. First, it’s named after a fruit. We feel healthier just thinking about it! Next, it’s crafted from waxed canvas, which isn’t something we see super often. Last, it’s handcrafted in Scotland, which is the conversation starter you never knew you needed!

The waxed canvas looks sleek and is super durable, though it tends to stay wet once it gets wet, so it isn’t the best choice for climates that see a lot of rain. You can wear it as a crossbody bag or a hip pack, which is ideal for travel because it’s more versatile. The strap doesn’t offer padding or aeration, which is something to consider if you prefer a plush carry experience.

There’s just a small zippered pocket on the back and one large compartment, and you’re pretty much left to your devices when it comes to organization. The space isn’t the easiest to utilize, as the tapered design creates harsh corners where it’s hard to fit gear. That said, once you get the hang of using the shape, the carry is comfortable enough to outweigh not having dedicated internal organization, we think. The look, materials, and unique features make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The waxed canvas exterior gives it a unique heritage look
• It’s made very well—you’re paying for longevity with this sling
• Its banana shape takes some getting used to when it comes to figuring out where to store your gear
• The materials take a while to dry after getting soaking wet, so avoid carrying this thing in heavy rain

Here at Pack Hacker, we find that a middle-sized sling is typically best for travel because it’s small enough to be packed into another bag and large enough to carry more than what you’d typically keep in your pockets. Inside this happy middle ground at 3.5 liters is the EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack, or MHP3.5. It’s a comfortable size to hold all your everyday carry gear without feeling bulky on your body.

If you’ve been looking for a comfortable sling, you’re going to want to listen up. The back panel is amply padded for carry comfort whether it’s in sling or waist pack mode, there’s plenty of material to create a strong attachment between the pack and the carry strap, and it’s easy to adjust on the fly to find the right fit.

There’s a pass-through channel on the pack’s front that works well for a water bottle, jacket, or other medium-sized item. The secondary (rear) pocket has a vertical-style organizer with multiple pockets to ensure all your gear has a home. Moving into the main compartment, there’s ample space for a packable jacket, small water bottle, tech pouch, or other medium-to-large-sized items. For a sling bag that only touts 3.5 liters, you can fit a ton of gear inside, making it a versatile travel companion, no matter where your journey takes you!

• The beefy harness system creates a comfortable carry in crossbody and hip pack modes
• There’s a ton of room for storing large and small gear without throwing them all into the main compartment
• It’s looks pretty big on your body considering for its liter size compared to other slings we’ve tested
• Though it’s designed to be a hip pack, it works great as a sling

Don’t let a broken sling bag break your heart. Choose one that will keep up.

Finding a Dependable Sling Bag for Travel and EDC

We’re partial to small slings since they are, point blank, the best for travel. Small slings are more comfortable to carry, easier to pack inside a larger travel backpack, and will be considered a personal item on most airlines (in the States, anyway). At some size, a sling bag just becomes an uncomfortable backpack.

While a sling’s size is measured in liters, the liter size of a sling bag can vary from company to company. One brand’s 5 liters is another brand’s 2 liters (exasperating, right? Get it together, people!). So it’s equally important to consider the shape of the sling bag, the internal organization, and the thickness of the material—all of which will impact the amount of usable space available. Let’s break that down.

Volume & Size

We know we just said judging a sling bag by liters isn’t the most accurate way to determine volume, but it still works well as a benchmark. We recommend staying between one and eight liters and keeping the weight less than four, maybe five, pounds—this weight includes your stuff, of course. Since a sling bag wears over one shoulder, a big, heavy sling may, at best, get too uncomfortable to carry, and at worst, hurt your back. Plus, it’ll look awfully strange sitting across the chest.

Some sling bags are expandable, which is excellent for travel since they’ll take up little space when not in use or when you don’t have much to carry—but you can still fill them with a decent amount of stuff when expanded. This trick works well on small sling bags but can be overkill on bigger ones, which expand to be comically bulky.

With an expandable main compartment, the CODEOFBELL X-Pod works equally well on days when you only need the essentials and on trips where you want everything but the kitchen sink. Plus, it never looks too bulky and manages to stay comfortable even when fully packed—an impressive feat we don’t often see.

The profile of a sling bag has a significant impact on its overall look and comfort level. Most sling bags have an oblong shape to better fit the chest and back. As we mentioned earlier, sometimes hip packs try to be sling bags—some are even successful at it—but they won’t be nearly as contoured to the chest and can hang in such a way as to look unbalanced.

With sling bags, you’ll usually find one of two orientations: tall or wide. They’re both equally great options that work better or worse for different use-cases and style preferences.

Tall sling bags are just that—tall—and wear more like a purse or mini-backpack. As you would expect, they work well for things that you want to pack vertically, say a phone case with bunny ears. Tall sling bags aren’t usually tight against the body, nor can they only be worn on your back.

This sling bag can be carried crossbody or as a hip pack with the same strap. Whichever you choose, the horseshoe zipper makes it easy to get to your gear, and the vertical orientation allows you to get a decent look inside the bag and squeeze in your hand without too much trouble.

If you want to look like you don’t know how to wear a fanny pack correctly, then a wide sling may be your style of choice. That’s to say, they are more closely related to the fanny pack in the looks department, for better or worse, and usually sit tightly against the body.

Chrome Industries prides itself on its unique, recognizable designs. And this sling bag is definitely unique. Its oblong shape is reminiscent of the typical fanny pack, but its larger size, seat belt buckle, and stiff shape are all its own. It can overwhelm smaller frames—particularly when full—but it’ll hold all of the essentials and then some.

Weather Resistance

You’ll likely carry important gear in your sling bag such as your cell phone, money, and passport. Unless you’ve got special powers that allow you to avoid rain and snow indefinitely, a bit of weather resistance is a major plus, as it will protect those essential items from damage. Plus, a weather-resistant sling can be wiped down quickly, meaning you won’t have to wear a sopping wet bag against your chest—not a fun experience.

On the other hand, too much weatherproofing is overkill. Full-blown waterproof or super weather-resistant materials are built for just that—resisting water. Generally speaking, they’re not going to hold up to everyday use as well as other fabrics (more on that below), and they may not look as nice or feel as comfortable on your back/chest.

If push comes to shove and you need to protect your sling from a sudden rainstorm, they’re usually small enough to fit under a rain jacket. Just beware—people may think you are either smuggling a small animal under your coat or have a bizarrely shaped chest. (This could be a pro or con depending on your personality.)

A sling bag designed to carry your essential tech—small laptops included—better have some weather resistance. The ALPAKA Bravo Sling Max V2 doesn’t disappoint, with high-quality, durable fabric and weather-resistant zippers.

Sling Bag Durability & Quality

With the popularity of sling bags on an exponential rise, you’ll find sling bags ranging from ten bucks to thousands. While we don’t recommend going out and buying a sling bag that costs as much as a car (unless you have money to burn), we do recommend purchasing a sling made of durable, high-quality materials—and that may cost you more than ten bucks.

That said, the same fabric that’s ideal for a travel backpack can be a bit much on a sling bag. You have to balance durability with weight and interior capacity. When you’re looking at quality, be sure to pay attention to:

A broken zipper may lead to a broken heart while traveling. That may sound dramatic, but if you’ve ever had a zipper break on you while abroad, you’ll know exactly what we mean. We usually trust zippers from YKK, RiRi, and SAB—all of which have solid track records for making quality products, our favorite being the Japanese manufacturer, YKK. YKK zippers have rarely let us down, even when we’ve put them through the wringer over years and years of testing. They account for about half of all the zippers in the world for a reason.

Beyond the brand, it’s important to consider size, which is measured on a scale of one (small) to ten (large). While the main zippers on sling bags fall all over this spectrum, the most common sizes are #5 or #8—seriously, out of the 50 + slings we’ve tested, a very, very high majority have either #5 or #8 zippers. Anything less than a five and you’ll likely run into durability issues.

With sling bags, you also don’t need—or want—anything too beefy, like a #10 zipper. If they’re too big, the zips can jingle, which gets annoying for us around the five-minute mark. Maybe you’re more patient than we are. Larger zippers can also rub against your chest or back, which is just as uncomfortable as it sounds.

Some companies purposefully design their sling bags with oversized zippers or zipper teeth to look extra dope. If you’re into this aesthetic, you may have to get used to the jingling. Fashion is pain and all that.

For the zippers on internal or less-frequented pockets, you’ll be okay with a smaller size. They can also help with the aforementioned weather resistance. When looking at zippers, you may see the letters RC stamped next to the size (#5RC, #8RC, etc.). RC stands for reverse coil, a term that describes zippers with internally—rather than externally—facing teeth, which helps prevent water from percolating into the bag. But a reverse coil zipper isn’t that water-resistant. So don’t go thinking it’ll protect your phone in a monsoon.

For further protection, there are water-repellent zippers—like the YKK AquaGuard zipper—which have a thin polyurethane coating to, you know, repel water. If you’re planning on going to an unusually wet area with your sling bag, then you may want to look for this style of zipper. Otherwise, you’ll likely be fine without that extra water resistance.

Buckles are a major component of most sling bags, and if there’s no buckle, there will be some sort of clip. You don’t want the hardware to break on you because that’ll make the sling practically useless. Unless you MacGyver up a big knot, which will help with the usefulness but, let’s be real, look totally ridiculous.

Again, the brand matters here. Some trustworthy companies are Duraflex, YKK, Woojin, and ITW. As long as you stick with them, you should be good to go. We also love metal buckles—as opposed to plastic—but when it comes to slings, they can be uncomfortable and add a good bit of weight. If durability is a priority however, metal buckles can’t be beaten.

Fabric & Material

Unlike in the 1800s—or even the mid-1900s—bag designers (engineers?) have a ton of fabrics to choose from to make their bags, all of which have pros and cons. As we’ve already mentioned, you want to balance durability with weight and capacity. A sling bag won’t have to do as much work as a travel backpack; therefore, it doesn’t have to be as tough. Some materials you may run into are:

Ballistic Nylon

Ripstop Nylon

CORDURA® Grade Fabrics (Nylon & Polyester)

While this isn’t a comprehensive list of all of the fabrics you’ll run into while shopping (sorry sailcloth and polypropylene) a majority of sling bags will be made with one or multiple of the materials mentioned above. But the material itself isn’t the be-all, end-all.

Usually, you’ll see a number followed by a D associated with the material—250D, 950D, 1000D, etc. The D stands for denier, which is the unit that measures the weight or thickness of fabric. In general, the higher the number, the more durable the fabric—but higher numbers also mean higher weight.

Because every fabric has its individual strengths (nylon is inherently stronger than polyester) the denier won’t help you much when comparing two different types of fabrics, or even two types of weaves within one fabric family. Instead, it helps you compare two fabrics of the same type. 500D Ballistic nylon is less durable than 1000D Ballistic nylon, for example. But the 500D Ballistic nylon will also be much lighter (about half as light, in fact!).

When it comes to sling bags, higher denier is generally better, but you start maxing out around 500D. As far as we’re concerned, any fabric over 500D is a bit overkill for a sling bag. As you get up into the 500D range, the weight of the fabric will start to become more substantial, but because sling bags are small—and thus don’t have a lot of fabric—you’ll hardly be able to notice this difference in weight. And because sling bags don’t take as much abuse as, say, a full-blown travel backpack, we don’t think the extra durability of 500D+ fabrics is necessary.

Moreover, the other aspects of a sling bag, including its zippers and hardware, also have to be high-quality. It does you no good if your ballistic nylon exterior has held up if your zippers break on week three. Best to keep everything well-rounded.

Bordering on too durable, the Aer City Sling 2 is made of some tough stuff—1680D CORDURA® Ballistic nylon, to be precise. If you’re looking for a sling bag that will keep up while you roam the world, this one should be on your radar.

Where Fashion Meets Convenience.

Choosing the Best Sling Bag for Your Use-Case

Besides keeping you trendy, sling bags are awesome because they’re convenient. That convenience becomes obsolete if it’s uncomfortable, hard to access, or doesn’t properly fit your use-case. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re considering investing in your soon-to-be favorite new accessory.

Sling bag straps are generally made of nylon webbing, but all vary in length and width. Smaller sling bags tend to have thin straps, while heavier backpack-style slings tend to have thick straps. Pretty straightforward so far. But length and width aren’t the only elements you need to pay attention to.

First of all, let’s talk about padding. Some sling bags have zero padding, while others are nearly as padded as the resume of a recent college grad. Padded straps are usually—but not always—found on bigger sling bags to help make carrying that much weight more comfortable.

As a general rule, we’re not too keen on thick, padded straps. They tend to give you awkward sweaty patches and can only help so much with comfort. As we already mentioned, once you reach a certain size of sling bag they become uncomfortable to carry regardless of how fancy the strap. Not to mention, bigger straps weigh more.

We’re fans of thinner straps or ones that are somewhere in the middle of the padding spectrum. We’re especially happy when straps are designed in such a way that they’re thicker or more padded only on those places where it’ll touch your body. That way, the sling isn’t bogged down by over-specced straps as far as design and weight are concerned.

The Osprey Daylite Sling knows that it’s a sling bag—meaning the strap has enough padding to make the carry comfortable, but nothing overboard. The padding is soft and kind to clothing, though it can get sweaty on long excursions. There’s also a small mesh pocket on the strap for items you want to access quickly and a nylon loop for attaching water bottles.

Additionally, some sling bags have detachable straps, allowing you to transform the bag into an organizer pouch for toiletries, electronics, your sticker collection, or whatever else you need to organize. We’re always fans of traveling with items that serve more than one purpose to save space and weight. A pouch/sling bag combo is one great way to do that, and detachable straps are virtually identical to non-detachable straps—so there aren’t really any downsides. These are particularly great for one bag travel, as you can use the pouch as a packing cube/organizer in your larger backpack and then take it out and throw a strap on for your flight or a day out.

Because the straps of this sling easily detach, it doubles as a pouch. Throw in some toiletries or tech and leave it in your travel backpack. Then, when you arrive and it’s time to explore a new city, reattach the straps and use it for all your everyday carry essentials. It’s a win-win-win.

Types of Sling Straps

The straps on sling bags have a major influence on the style of the bag. It would be like if the only difference between a backpack and a duffel is the strap. So, let’s check out the various strap styles you’re likely to run into.

The Traditional Strap

The Traditional Strap Example

You’ll likely see traditional sling bag straps when you hit the trails. Major outdoor brands like Patagonia and Osprey sell these kinds of slings, which have a single, thick strap that looks like one you’d find on a backpack, but sits on one shoulder and lies asymmetrically across the chest.

A sling bag with a traditional style of strap is designed to be worn across your back and can’t be worn on your chest or hips. Unfortunately, most of these straps are designed to be worn across the same shoulder every time. That means the carry can become uncomfortable on long excursions, dumping all the weight of the bag onto one side. But they’re nice for quick jaunts since the strap stays in place—even as you bounce along a trail.

The Kavu Rope Sling has an outdoorsy look and a handful of organization for ultimate comfort on the trails. Keep bigger gear close at hand, though it does take a little practice to get the packing strategy right.

The New Wave Strap

The New Wave Strap Example

New wave sling bag straps are usually simple, thin, and attach to the body of the sling bag at the edges width-wise (new wave straps go hand-in-hand with wide sling bags). And they’re designed to be worn both on the chest or back. We’ve coined them “new wave” because these straps are the ones that catapulted sling bags into being a mainstream fashion accessory. They’re truly the “new wave” of sling bags (aren’t we clever?).

The way the straps are anchored to the bag and the way the buckles buckle make it so most new wave straps can’t be worn comfortably on the hips. Sure, with some combination of magic, innovation, and true grit, you could probably force a few of them to sit on your hips, but that’s not what they’ve been engineered to do.

The Tortuga Travel Sling looks like it’s more versatile than it is. While it looks like you could sling it around your hips, the straps are anchored in such a way that it can only be worn successfully on the chest or back. Even without the ability to wear the sling as a hip pack, it’s one of the best slings for travel due to its small size, internal organization, and low weight.

The Hip Pack-Style Strap

The Hip Pack-Style Strap Example

Listen up—because this part is kind of tricky. At first glance, the hip pack-style strap will look eerily similar to the new wave style of strap. The main difference is that the hip pack style of strap can be worn slung around the hips (as well as across the chest). They’re the most versatile in terms of function, but they also scream “fanny pack.” So much so, your dad may ask you why you busted out his old fanny pack and are now wearing it incorrectly. (Obviously, he just doesn’t understand fashion.)

Small and lightweight, lululemon advertises the Everywhere Belt Bag as a fanny pack, but we think it makes a comfortable sling bag too. Mainly because the strap is wider than it needs to be and the buckle is off-center to make it easier to reach. Whichever way you wear it, the bag also has some mesh pockets and a rear security pocket, making it ideal for festivals and travel alike.

The Crossbody Strap

The Crossbody Strap Example

This style of strap is a long piece of webbing that can sit crossbody or be thrown over one shoulder. It’s similar to a purse strap, although usually thinner and without any decorative elements.

The Fjallraven Greenland Pocket has a thin crossbody strap that’s super simple to tighten or loosen—so you can wear it close to your chest or let it hang, depending on where you’re traveling and your mood. But the strap is rough and may damage more delicate items of clothing.

The Lefty Strap

The Lefty Strap Example

Lefties make up only 10% of the population and thus can be ignored by companies who’d rather reach the majority of consumers (sorry, lefties. The truth hurts).

Sometimes, we’ve found that it’s easier to adapt to the right-handed world and use sling bags designed for right-handers. That said, there are a few sling bags that may work better for those of you who are aware that left-handed scissors exist.

These lefty-inclusive sling bags have straps that can be anchored on either side of the bag, allowing you to wear it across whichever shoulder you’d like. That way, if you’re left-handed, you can wear it on your left shoulder, so when you “sling” the bag forward, your left hand is ready to work the zippers.

But, these straps don’t always mean a sling is ideal for lefties. Pocket orientation matters, too. It won’t do you any good to wear the sling on your left shoulder if all the pockets will be facing the ground. There are some sling bags out there with either symmetrical pockets or pockets for lefties.

Thoughts on Buckles

We’ve talked about buckles before, but they’re worth mentioning a second time. They contribute to the look, feel, function, and style of a sling bag nearly as much as the straps do.

The first question worth asking is, “Where is the buckle located?”

If the buckle is centered, that means the sling bag can almost always be worn on either shoulder or around the hips. But a centered buckle isn’t ideal if you’re planning on wearing your sling bag with a backpack. The backpack’s weight can cause the sling’s buckle to dig into your back (ouch), and you won’t be able to easily detach it without first taking off your backpack.

If the buckle is off-center (usually on the right side), the sling bag works best on one shoulder. Meaning you won’t be able to switch between the two if one ever gets tired. In some cases, you can technically wear it on whatever shoulder you want, but it will likely sit uncomfortably on one side, or the buckle will end up in an awkward place that’s hard to access with your dominant hand (sorry lefties, this one will impact you more often).

You should also pay attention to the size of the buckle. The larger it gets, the more uncomfortable it’ll wear. But that’s not always a dealbreaker. Larger buckles can look pretty damn fly, they’ll last longer, and they’re usually easier to clip/unclip for people who can’t be bothered with slow buckles.

Finally, you’ll want to ask yourself if you plan to wear your sling bag as a hip pack every once and a while. Some buckles don’t allow for this dual functionality.

The stainless steel buckles on the Trakke Largo Sling could be considered slightly over-specced for a bag this small, but we’re not complaining. These buckles are ultra-durable, they allow you to wear the sling bag comfortably as a hip pack, and they let you wear it over either shoulder (lefties, that one’s for you!). Plus, it’s a fresh look that helps give this sling its heritage vibe.

Thoughts on Back Panels

Whether or not you should care about the back panel on a sling bag depends on how it fits your body. Boxier sling bags wear more like a purse or messenger bag, so you won’t want or need anything fancy. You can run into trouble, however, with sling bags that hug the body. These can leave awkward sweat patches and rub against your clothing, causing pilling.

To help alleviate those issues, some sling bags come equipped with mesh back panels, most commonly found on outdoor-oriented or backpack-style sling bags.

Some sling bags don’t have that fancy mesh but do have a bit of cushioning or padding for added comfort. Usually, the padding makes for a more comfortable carry but can exacerbate the sweat problem.

And some sling bags, especially the smaller ones, have neither mesh nor padding. We’re alright with that—as long as the bag is truly on the smaller end.

Typical for Hydro Flask, the Slingback Bottle Pack has been designed to shine in the great outdoors. You’ll find soft, padded, and breathable mesh on both the back panel and shoulder strap. If you’re anything like us, you’ll still get sweaty on your way to the peak, but it has better airflow than many slings out there (especially for its size).

Thoughts on Organization

In our years of testing gear, we’ve come to realize that organization is one of those things that’s very personal. Some people like bags with large, empty compartments while others are offended when there’s not a spot for each one of their fancy pens.

You can find sling bags all along that spectrum. Some are basically exterior pockets with zero organization, while others have pockets on pockets on pockets. Again, what’s best for you depends on your use-case and what you’re going to be carrying.

Lots of smaller items? You’ll probably want those organized. A few bigger things? Too much organization could annoy you. For most people, you’ll want something in the middle. We love a main compartment with two to three interior pockets and an additional front or back pocket. But, again, think through your situation.

One great feature to look for is a hidden pocket, which will usually sit on the side of the sling bag that’s against your body. This pocket is the ideal place to stash essential items like your passport, credit cards, or cash.

This Minaal sling has several pockets of varying sizes, so you’ll find a spot for everything—a passport, travel sunglasses, a battery bank, wallet, snacks, you name it. There’s even a security pocket for hiding cash and cards!

Specialist Sling Bags

Most sling bags fall into the travel/outdoors/EDC realm, but some have dared to be different. These specialist sling bags to work for very specific use cases (hence the whole “specialist” thing). We’ll briefly run through these sling bags here, so you’re not caught off-guard if you ever encounter one in the wild.

Secure Sling Bags

Chances are you’re going to be carrying some pretty important stuff in your sling bag—and this time, we’re not talking about snacks. We mean things like your passport, keys, and cash. While we do think some common sense can go a long way towards keeping your valuables safe on the road, we get that security features can help with overall peace of mind. Secure sling bags will likely have a number of features to prevent thieves from gaining quick access, including lockable zippers, hidden or lockable buckles, slash-proof straps, tear-proof fabrics, and RFID-blocking technology.

The trade-off here is that most secure sling bags look like secure sling bags. They also weigh more than their less safe counterparts, and they won’t be quite as accessible. Still, peace of mind is peace of mind.

The Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack is a tough sling that’s slash-proof, RFID-blocking, and lockable. The strap feels a bit bulky, but it’ll give you peace of mind that your stuff will be safe on the road.

Camera Sling Bags

When you want to snap pictures of your epic adventures but don’t plan on lugging around a full camera kit with different lenses and battery packs, a camera sling bag could be your new best friend. These allow you to carry a good amount of camera accessories without having to be worn down by an entire backpack. If you’re partial to point and shoot cameras, you can probably stick with any old sling bag, though camera-focused gear never hurts.

Camera sling bags usually have soft internal padding, durable and weather-resistant external materials, some adjustable inserts/dividers, and lots of organization. Some even have multiple access points. Plus, they’re still sling bags, so getting to your gear is quick and easy. Sling the sling to your chest, zip it open, grab your camera, and you’re good to go.

Camera sling bags vary wildly in size with some being as large as a backpack. At that point, we’d recommend just wearing a backpack for better weight distribution. Seriously, a heavy camera sling bag gets uncomfortable and bulky fast.

The Peak Design Everyday Sling is a versatile, durable bag that will keep your camera and accessories safe and organized while you roam the world. Its FlexFold dividers allow you to customize the interior to suit your needs. We think it’s just the right size, allowing you to carry a good amount of gear without weighing you down.

Don’t judge a sling bag by its cover. Wait, no, do. Definitely judge a sling bag by its cover.

Navigating the Complex World of Sling Bag Styles

If you decide to wear a sling bag, even if it’s only for convenience, you’re making a fashion statement. What kind of fashion statement is up to you. If you’re going to a festival, you might want something flashy and trendy. If you’re using it for day trips abroad, you probably want something that doesn’t scream tourist. If you’re Paris Hilton, you probably want to opt for something fabulous and expensive. No matter who you are, we’ve found five common styles to look out for.

The Fanny Pack Look-Alike

By now, you hopefully understand that a sling bag is not the same thing as a hip pack. But they do share some of the same DNA. Sometimes, you’ll find a sling bag that looks identical to a hip pack with an oblong shape, simple strap, and centered buckle.

In some cases, this is purely a fashion statement, but we love this style of sling bag for travel since it tends to be the perfect size for essentials and won’t take up too much space in your pack when not in use. Plus, it can be worn with a backpack. Win, win, win.

• Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Bellroy Sling Mini
• ALPAKA Bravo Sling Mini

Outdoorsy & Athletic

The outdoorsy sling bag looks like it wants to be a backpack, but hasn’t eaten quite enough vegetables. It tends to be bigger than other sling bag styles and can only be worn on the back. Sporty and colorful, these sling bags have tourist written all over them. So unless you want to stand out, you probably won’t want to take one with you on your epic tour of the world’s cities. But with comfortable straps and back panels, they’re nice for short hikes and outdoor excursions.

• Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling
• Patagonia Atom Sling
• Cotopaxi Chasqui 13L Sling (Cada Dia)
• The North Face Field Bag
• KAVU Rope Sling

Crossbody (The Purse or Murse)

Crossbody sling bags are the reason some people say sling bags are purses for men who are embarrassed to say they own a purse. It has a similar aesthetic to a purse, but with a longer strap and smaller body. They tend to have a more vertical orientation as well. We think crossbody slings work well for travel, although since they don’t sit as close to the body as other sling bags, may not feel as secure in a bustling metropolis or busy market.

• Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag
• Fjallraven Greenland Pocket
• Tom Bihn Small Cafe Bag
• Bellroy Lite Sacoche

While there are some sling bags out there that are seriously tactical (think Apocalypse ready), others just look tactical. While the former is probably better suited for outdoorsy things, the latter can be great for travel. Usually made of high-quality stuff, these bags are ready for whatever you throw at them.

• NITECORE SLB05
• 5.11 RUSH MOAB 6 Sling Pack
• Red Rock Rover Sling Pack

While Louis Vuitton and Prada sling bags fall under the fashion category, you don’t have to break the bank here (unless you want to, of course). Fashion sling bags are designed to impress with sleek zippers, unique straps, or other sophisticated design elements. Sometimes, although not always, this trendiness comes at a price—and that price is lower durability. That’s fine if your use-case is pretty low-impact, but if you’re planning to use your sling bag time and again while traveling the world, you may want to opt for another style.

• Bellroy City Pouch
• The North Face Isabella Hip Pack

It’s time to spread your wings and…choose a sling bag you’ll love! It’s as easy as one, two, three.

Forget the Best Sling Bag For Travel. Find the Best Sling Bag for YOU!

We would’ve loved to end this guide with “all that said, the best sling bag for travel is…” because, let’s be real, that would save us all a lot of time and effort. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the best sling bag for travel. There is only the best sling bag for you . So, let’s review how you can choose a sling bag you’ll fall in love with. To make things extra easy, we’ve broken it up into three steps:

1. Decide Why You Want a Sling Bag

Planning on rocking your sling during Milan’s Fashion Week? Opt for a designer sling made with less durable materials. Planning on backpacking Southeast Asia for three years? You might want a sling that’ll last the entirety of the trip. Different sling bags are better or worse for different situations, so make sure to think through when you’ll be using your sling bag and for what. And make sure to consider every use-case—perhaps you’ll be visiting fashion week then backpacking through Thailand. Pick your sling bag accordingly.

2. Assess Quality & Function

Take a look at the elements of a sling bag and the quality of materials. Unless you get joy out of throwing things away, you’ll probably want a sling bag that’s going to last you a little while. Pay close attention to the sling bag’s fabric, zippers, buckles, and straps. An easy tip for assessing overall quality is to take a look at the company’s warranty. If a company is willing to stand behind its products and offer a meaty warranty, then you should be able to trust whatever they’re selling.

3. Choose Your Favorite Style

A sling bag is an accessory. A useful accessory, but an accessory nonetheless. So make sure you love how it looks. In the end, if you’re repulsed by how hideous your new sling bag is, it doesn’t matter that it’ll last you until 2075.

Alright! You’ve made it to the end, folks. You may have thought that a sling bag was only a fun twist on a resurgent trend from the ‘90s, but now you know it’s so much more. We deem thee an official sling bag expert.

Good luck with all your slinging adventures—and make sure to share any other sling bag tips you’ve learned with us and the rest of the Pack Hacker community.

P.S. If you want more, check out all of our gear reviews . We’re always testing and reviewing new sling bags, plus a bunch of other super dope stuff.

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

Protect your Belongings: 11 Anti-theft bags for travel (2024 UPDATED)

Last Updated on April 10, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa

This post may contain affiliate links. Never leave home without travel insurance. Click for the insurance finder tool. and  insurance for COVID/quarantine protection .

As travelers, we are all potential victims of street crime, theft and pickpockets.

Thus, safety is a priority when traveling alone as a woman, and choosing a good anti-theft bag should be a consideration when visiting a new country for the first time or entering a country you know has pickpockets. Here’s anti-theft bags for travel in 2022.

I’ve been fortunate that with as much expensive gear and gadgets that I carry, I have always averted travel theft. But I’ve witnessed it and seen it happen many times to travelers, both naive and well-heeled ones.

Check out a list of my pickpocket-proof items .

Table of Contents: Protect your Belongings: 11 Anti-theft bags for travel (2024 UPDATED)

• 1 Are anti-theft bags worth it?
• 2 What features make a bag theft-proof?
• 3.1 Hidden and multiple pockets
• 3.2 Best anti-theft hidden/multiple pocket bags:
• 3.3.1 Best anti-theft cross-body bags for minimalist travel
• 3.4.1 Best anti-theft slash-proof bags for stylish travel:
• 3.5.1 Best anti-theft RFID protection bags:
• 3.6.1 Best anti-theft locking backpacks for laptops:
• 3.7.1 Have any recommendations to share on anti-theft bags for travel?

Are anti-theft bags worth it?

What features make a bag theft-proof.

What makes a good anti-theft bag are a variety of features to aid in the safety and protection of your valuables and personal information, such as hidden pockets, cross body, slash-proof, RFID blocking protection, sturdy locks and locks to fixtures.

A good theft-proof bag can have one or a combination of these features.

But ultimately, the important part is that you are comfortable using it.

What to look for in anti-theft bags for travel

Hidden and multiple pockets.

I have forever been a fan of backpacks and bags with multiple pockets and hidden pockets on the inside liner.   All my gear backpacks and daypacks have had – at the least-  inside pocket nestled against the back of the backpack or an outside pocket hidden against my back. Pickpockets cannot enter it without notice.  Bags with hidden pockets are great for stashing a money belt, extra cash and important documents like a passport.

Best anti-theft hidden/multiple pocket bags:

1. ameribag healthy back bag  .

Before I donned a camera backpack in my travels, I used the AmeriBag Healthy sling bag when traveling Spain and Morocco and I loved it. It’s slim shape is misleading. The bag expands well and has multiple pockets outside and inside and it hugs the body in a comfortable ergonomic way. I could carry a camcorder, small lightweight jacket, moleskine notebook and more.  Twenty years later, I still have it and use it for shopping, going to the beach and working freelance in video production.

2. Leaper Canvas Crossbody Messenger Bag  

This stylishly cute canvas messenger bag has a hidden pocket on the back, two outer access pockets for documents and note pads, the main compartment that fits a 14-inch laptop. Additional features are a combination lock, sturdy zippers, and an external battery charging port with a built-in charging cable.

It’s a very practical but fashionable urban-looking bag. You can carry it sling-style as a messenger bag or hand carry it.  Measurements: 11.4 x 15 x 4.5in

3. NicGid sling Crossbody Messenger Bag

 This outdoor backpack sling bag has a hidden pocket on the back and multiple pockets from access pockets to main compartment. It resembles a military bag and has a rugged build. It holds 14″ laptop and has a reversible strap with an anti-theft pouch to store valuables such as money, mobile phone, etc… Measurements: 11.8in x 15in  x 3.5in

Crossbody or sling bags

Crossbody bags let thieves know you’re not going to be an easy target. A cross-body bag sits in the center of your gravity and offers you the option of wearing it on your back or against your chest. The latter lets your arms doubly ensure that no one can enter your bag against your guard.

Best anti-theft cross-body bags for minimalist travel

4. travelon anti-theft classic slim bag.

TravelOn is a good brand for slash-proof bags. This Classic TravelOn Slim Crossbody Bag is a flat travel bag featuring five-point security:  slash-proof body and straps, RFID blocking and interlocking zippers, and a lockdown zipper so no one can enter without your permission. The cool selling point for this bag is that it has convertible straps and you can wear it both, crossbody and backpack. Measurements: 9” x 10.5” x 1”

Read 5 minimalist pick-pocket proof bags

5. Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack

For those who love messenger-style crossbody bags, this Waterfly crossbody sling backpack serves as a sleek waterproof daypack for hiking and urban maneuvers. It has two mesh bag holders for a water bottle or umbrella and an adjustable and reversible strap that can carry a mobile phone (screen size under 7 inches). It has three outer access pockets so you can have items in convenient reach and there are a few pocket compartments inside so you can be organized. All over, it is a sporty toolkit bag for the minimalist who has many small items to store. Measurements: 7 x 3.5 x 15 inches

3. Slash-proof

Purses signal obvious money to any pickpocket and their straps are always thin. But Travelon is known to make great slash-proof purses with a wire mesh inside the lining, making it sturdier and unbreakable. Slash proof travel sling bag anti theft is good also.

Best anti-theft slash-proof bags for stylish travel:

6. travelon anti-theft classic essential messenger bag.

This simple and classic cut travelon anti theft crossbody bag is constructed with a water and dirt-resistant fabric and is ideal for the solo traveler who is on a simple mission… sightseeing. It also has TravelOn’s famous five-point security: slash-proof body and straps and RFID blocking so thieves cannot get scan your credit card and valuable documents. It has interlocking zippers and a lockdown zipper with one main compartment and an access pocket on the outside.

For more smart solo travel safety items, check out my list of pickpocket-proof items .

7. Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

This simple travelon anti theft crossbody bag has a thin strap that is slash-proof. There are also interlocking zippers on the main compartment and two access pockets on the outside. Comes in a variety of print colors. Sleek, simple and stylish. Measurements: 14.5 x 12 x 1.5

Download my checklist of 25 solo travel mistakes to avoid

Rfid blocking protection.

These days, theft doesn’t only happen in the old school way of bag theft, but through the theft of identity and personal information, as well.  Bags with built-in RFID-blocking technology give you peace of mind that your personal info is protected.

Best anti-theft RFID protection bags:

8. baggallini rfid journey crossbody.

Functional machine-washable bag with built-in RFID-blocking technology. There is a hidden pocket in the back of the bag as well as pockets to store smaller documents and credit cards. Simply cute, durable and lightweight, this is for the traveler who navigates with the essentials.

9. Baggallini Crossbody Bag

This Baggalini crossbody purse is made of durable and water-resistant nylon.  There are many pockets so you can stay organized. The wide base is deeper front-to-back than the top, so when it’s loaded with items, the bag stands upright by itself. This is ideal for packrats, as it stores more than it appears to hold. It includes a detachable RFID blocking wrist purse. Overall, very nice, practical design and a popular choice for women. Measurements: 8.5 x 11 x 4.5.

Locks to fixtures

Anti-theft laptop backpacks with the ability to secure your bag to fixtures are a great feature to have. Additional features include sturdy and locking zippers for further security, knowing that thieves will not be able to open your zipper!

Best anti-theft locking backpacks for laptops:

10. travelon anti-theft classic backpack.

This classic anti-theft backpack has a 5-Point Anti-Theft Security System which includes: lock down straps to  prevent bag snatchers and you can lock it to a chair for extra security, 2) anti-pickpocket locking zippers and compartments, 3) slash-proof body and straps. and RFID blocking pockets. Room for a small laptop, water bottle and makes a great daypack!

11. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 25L Backpack

This day pack is similar to the Travelon Anti-theft Classic but with more of a traditional shape. Durable, water-resistant, the Pacsafe Metrosafe 25L Laptop backpack is a likeable anti-theft day pack for any occasion from daily use to international travel. It has three access pockets with lockable zippers, slash-proof straps and two side pockets for water bottle and umbrella. It has one RFID pocket that can be locked to fixtures and chairs so thieves cannot run away with it.

The backpack has a non-descript demeanor to keep it from looking like a valuable bag and it holds a 15″ laptop.  Travelers love it for its comfort, ability to store enough from a weekend to longer, its safety and quality. 9″H x 11. 8″W x 6. 7″D.

Trip Insurance is an Added Precaution for Travel Theft?

Buy trip insurance that covers theft .   I’ve used the latter when I know my adventures will be rugged and a little iffy where travel theft is concerned. Read more .

Have any recommendations to share on anti-theft bags for travel?

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Home » Gear » sling pack

12 Best Sling Packs of 2024 • (HONEST Rundown)

But it’s not just about my experiences. These sling packs have been vetted by fellow nomads, globetrotters, and adventure enthusiasts, all of whom demand the best from their gear. Whether you’re a city slicker in need of a sleek, urban-friendly accessory or a trailblazer looking for a rugged companion, this list has got you covered.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what’s needed. We’ve got the best sling bag for hiking, one for laptops and even a sling for festivals. Let’s dive right in and check out the best slingpacks on the market…

Quick Answer: Best Sling Packs 2024 Review

• Nomatic Navigator Sling – Best Overall Sling Pack for Travel
• WANDRD Detour Hip Pack – Best Packable Sling
• Patagonia Atom Sling – Runner-Up Best Sling Pack
• Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling  – Best Sling Bag for Ladies
• Mahi Classic Flight Bag – Best Leather Sling Bag
• Red Rock Rover Sling  – Best Sling Bag for Hiking
• Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag  – Best Sling Bag for Laptops
• Kavu Rope Sling – Best Sling Bag for Music Festivals
• Monarc Sling – Most Stylish Sling Pack
• Think Tank Retrospective 30  – Best Camera Sling Bag
• Inateck Sling Pack – Best Sling Pack For Airports

Performance Breakdowns and Top Tips

Review of the 12 best slings packs, how to choose the best sling bag for travel, how and where we tested to find the best sling pack, faq about the best sling pack, final thoughts on the best sling packs.

This epic review of the best sling packs of 2024 provides you with my top picks, a comparison table for easy cross-referencing, advice for first-time buyers, what I like and what I don’t about each sling pack, advantages of sling pack use and much more! Slings make great travel organisers , so choose one that fits your style!

Ready for some top-quality sling bag reviews, Of course you are.

Let’s take a look at my top picks for the  best sling bags in 2024…

Nomatic Navigator Sling

• > 1.3 pounds

WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

• > 6.3 Liters

Patagonia Atom Sling

• > 12 ounces

Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling

• > 1 lb. 6.1 oz.
• > 10 Liters

Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

Red Rock Rover Sling

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

• > 1 lb. 15.4 oz.
• > 21 Liters

Kavu Rope Sling

Think Tank Retrospective 30

#1. nomatic navigator sling, best overall sling bag for travel.

• Price  -> $129.99
• Weight -> 1.3 lbs
• Capacity  -> 6 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> Main compartment (with interior pockets) + 2 more pockets

What I like: This durable little beast does everything you’d want a sling pack to do. It aces interior organization while still keeping everything easily accessible and even has an array of nifty features perfect for a traveler on the move.

As well as its main compartment and dedicated back pocket for tablets, there’s a hidden bottle pocket that stows away when not in use. There’s an in-built key leash, card slots on the shoulder strap perfect for transit card access, and the interior cord management even allows you to charge devices between the pockets!

On the build side of things, the Nomatic Navigator Sling is hella sleek and sits comfortably across the torso and back. The breathable back panel stops the ugly back sweats, meanwhile, the strength and water resistance means this sling bag is even suitable for a day hike.

This all-black sling pack will look good in any outfit you pick, however, just for that one extra sexy feature, Nomatic has gone ahead and thrown some reflective visibility bars into the design to keep you safe at night!

We also love it for other uses whilst on the road and we rate it as an awesome beach bag too.

What I don’t like: Mainly, the price. For Nomatic products, you’re always paying a premium, and when stacked up against the other sling bags on this list, the difference shows.

However, as with all things in life, you get what you pay for. And in this case, the extra dollaridoos certainly show their worth for the best sling pack on the market.

Our team loved this super heavy-duty sling bag because it just seemed to tick all the boxes as the perfect sling. Firstly the material of the bag is not only super durable but highly water resistant too giving the team confidence when storing important gear. Another stand-out feature is the internal organisation of the sling, something that made packing and unpacking really easy.

Wanna know more, of course, ya do! We’ve actually written an in-depth post about the Nomatic Navigator Sling for your viewing pleasure!

#2. WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

Best packable sling pack.

What I like : The WANDRD Detour is a PACKABLE sling which folds up into a neat, compact little square when you are not using it. It’s designed to carry DSLR cameras so offers pretty generous storage space. It has a simple, sleek and suave design which makes it great for everyday no-frills use. Use this pack as an airport bag, for hitting the beach or yeah, for carrying your camera.

What I don’t like: First up, if you are going to use this as a camera bag then note that it does not offer much protection in case of knocks and drops. You will therefore need to also invest in the WANDED inflatable camera cube. Personally, I dislike the polyester strap on this pack as it doesn’t feel great against the skin.

To round up this sling bag review we let our testers give it a go and they were really impressed. They just loved how small this sling packed down and loved that they could just throw it into their bag as an extra bit of storage or to use during the day without taking up hardly any room. They also loved how light it was.

#3. Patagonia Atom Sling

Runner-up best sling bag for travel.

• Price  -> $65.00
• Weight -> 12 ounces
• Capacity  -> 8 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 2 Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: The Patagonia Atom Sling is the perfect sling bag to take traveling. Why? I like it because it is simple, durable, and can hold just enough stuff to keep the essentials close at hand. When you need to grab something from your pack, the single-strap design lets you rotate the Atom to the front for quick access.

If you are traveling with a Kindle or Ipad, the large, zippered main pocket has a dedicated, padded tablet sleeve inside for easy, safe storage.

A convenient stretch-mesh pocket on the chest/shoulder strap accommodates a wide variety of phone sizes. You can adjust the fit quickly and easily on the go. Adjustable exterior compression straps help to manage loads of various sizes.

Finally, the strong exterior fabric is finished with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to protect items from light rain. This is a great minimalist sling bag for travel as long as you are indeed a minimalist and not trying to pack heaps of stuff into it (you won’t be able to).  Good job Patagonia!

What I don’t like: When the Patagonia Atom is super full, the balance can feel off. Your neck can end up taking a majority of the weight if you don’t have the back properly adjusted. For carrying heaps of stuff, 8 liters is not much to work with. Some users have complained that it is simply too small to be practical.

Our team loved all the different practical features of this sling including the external pockets and compression straps. They felt the shoulder strap was pretty well-padded and comfortable when properly adjusted and just loved the addition of the small pocket on the strap.

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#4. Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling Pack

Best sling bag for ladies.

• Price  -> $109.95
• Weight -> 1 lb. 6.1 oz. ounces
• Capacity  -> 10 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 3 Exterior Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: The Pacsafe Anti-Theft sling is slightly smaller than the Patagonia Atom Sling listed above, though it still can basically hold the same amount of essential items. The Pacsafe sling is cool because it can be worn 2 different ways—as a sling or as a backpack. This sling pack is very safety conscious, which I like.

The N Lock security hooks which allow you to attach the bag strap to a secure fixture to avoid snatch-and-run theft. Hidden, stainless-steel eXomesh mesh slash guards protect against slash-and-run theft. Zipper pulls attach to discreet hooks, making them tougher for pickpockets to open.

A hidden pocket located on the backside of the bag keeps your most important small items closest to your body. A bonus is the RFID-blocking material located in a special pocket which helps prevent electronic identity theft. Whew!

The Pacsafe Anti-Theft Sling is my top pick for the best sling bag for women for all of the badass safety features listed above. You’ll stay one step ahead of any potential thieves while keeping your most important gear safe.

What I don’t like: Again, the Pacsafe Anti-Theft is quite small. You will have trouble trying to fit anything more than the bare essentials inside. Also, the Pacsafe sling is a little more expensive than some of the other options found in this review.

Our team liked the low profile of this sling especially as it can be worn more in the style of a handbag rather than looking like a traditional sling. The team felt it was a great backpacking option when they wanted something to take travelling that would still look great with a dress but keep their gear safe too.

#5 Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

Best leather sling.

• Price -> $115
• Weight -> 1.5 lbs.
• Capacity -> 2 Liters
• Number of Compartments -> 1

What I Like:

The bag is meticulously crafted with a 100% full-grain leather exterior, ensuring durability while sporting a sleek, sophisticated look. The interior is lined with 100% cotton, providing a soft, protective layer for your belongings.

Boasting a 2L capacity, the bag is compact yet spacious enough to hold your daily essentials. The dimensions are W19cm x H22cm x D4cm, providing a streamlined profile. The expandable shoulder strap, ranging from 78cm to 145cm, allows for a custom fit, ensuring the bag rests comfortably against your body.

What I Don’t Like:

Hmm, there really isn’t much to not love. It’s well-sized for an airport bag and fits phones, wallets and papers easily while looking stylish. I suppose it isn’t exactly cheap ($86 for a small bag..) but that’s leather I guess.

Also, I personally prefer a packable sling pack like the Nomatic Navigator.

#6. Red Rock Rover Sling

Best sling bag for hiking.

• Price  -> $39.99
• Weight  -> 3 lbs.
• Capacity  -> 9 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 3

What I Like: Technically, the Red Rock Rover Sling is a concealed carry sling. That means it was intended to stash a gun inside. That said, it is a tough, burly sling pack perfect for short hikes. Finding the best sling bag for hiking isn’t easy because sling packs are inherently not really intended for hiking. The Red Rock Sling is going to be the most comfortable and most practical sling bag for hiking you will find.

The three storage compartments are large enough to pack snacks, water, a light layer, and other essentials. I am a fan of the fact that the internal and external pockets contain admin dividers and organizers and it’s one of the big reasons I picked this as my best hiking sling bag.

For quick access to important items (i.e snacks), the two external compartments make it easy for you. The Red Rover Sling comes in a variety of colors, so don’t worry… you need not get a camouflage sling if that’s not your thing! For the price, you won’t find a better sling bag for hiking!

What I don’t like: As a 9-liter sling bag for hiking, I feel like the Rover sling is far heavier than it should be. There are 50-liter+ hiking backpacks that weigh less! It’s kind of weird too that this is a sling bag intended to hide guns and bullets. Can we all just get along?

Our team felt this was the best sling backpack for hiking because of the proper durable exterior and the ability to bring along heaps of extras with the addition of the accessory and gear loops. They also loved the different pockets on the front of the pack which made keeping things organised easy, they liked that they could throw in an energy bar and have quick access.

#7. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Best sling bag for laptops.

• Price  -> $99.00
• Weight  -> 1 lb. 15.4 oz.
• Capacity  -> 21 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 3 + Main Compartment

What I like: For a full-size sling bag for laptops and everyday practicality, the Timbuk2 Classic is a badass sling pack. With 21-liters, you can carry everything you need for a day in the city.

The thoughtfully distributed internal pockets balance the weight of your carry, which is hugely important! The fully adjustable shoulder strap features a super comfortable air-mesh strap pad. Digital Nomads rejoice!

A low-profile handle makes the sling bag easy to grab and go. The SR buckles are partially concealed behind the flap for a sleek but secure closure. Crucially, the flap corners fold into place for excellent weatherproofing.

If you are a digital nomad/city dweller looking for the best sling bag for laptops around, look no further than the Timbuk2 Classic. It’s a hell of a sling pack!

What I don’t like: The closure straps are too long. They tend to rub on the legs which can result in chaffing and if nothing else, annoyance. Short of cutting the end off with a knife, there isn’t much to be done about that.

One major flaw is whilst the sling bag itself is rather padded, there is no individual padding for the laptop compartment. Several users of this bag have complained about poor customer service with Timbuk2. That’s an unfortunate reputation to cultivate, as Timbuk2 typically makes awesome products.

Our team just loved the epic volume of this sling and just how much it holds. They also loved the range of different colours and styles it came in, all of which look super cool. If you pick one of the more reserved colourways the team felt the sling was a great commuter pack for those needing to carry a laptop and a few notebooks with them on the daily.

Looking for more bags of this style, check out the best messenger bags on offer too.

#7. Kavu Rope Sling

Best sling bag for music festivals.

• Price  -> $50.00
• Weight  -> 12 ounces
• Capacity  -> N/A – My guess is between 6-8 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 4 Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: When headed to a heady music festival or party, having a low-key, functional sling bag is awesome for storing your stuff. The Kavu Rope Sling is the perfect sling pack to take to festivals! I appreciate that the design is simple, practical, and functional! There are basically two zip compartments and two small Velcro stash pockets (perfect for keeping your festival drugs safe lol).

What’s cool is that the Kavu Rope Sling is made of cotton canvas which means it can be washed. At a music festival or beach party, your bag ends up all over the place. Washing away dust, grit, and stale beer droplets is very important indeed!

The Kava Rope Sling also makes for a great sling bag for travel if you are not seeking to load it with stuff.

What I don’t like: The bag was intended to be worn on the right shoulder only. If you are right-handed, like I am, you’ll find that the Rope Sling takes some getting used to. Because the bag is made of cotton canvas, it is pretty much at the mercy of the weather. In heavy rain, your stuff will get soaked. Some users have found the shoulder straps to be uncomfortable.

Our team loved that this bag had a proper hippy vibe to it that just worked perfectly for a music festival. Besides its looks, they were super impressed by the extra features on the bag so often missed out on these bohemian numbers. That included the different external pockets, one of which was on the strap, these were great for quick grab items like mints, smokes or loose coins.

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#8.  Think Tank Retrospective 30

Best camera sling bag.

• Price  -> $194.75
• Weight  -> 3.2 lbs
• Capacity  -> 15” W x 9.5” H x 6” D (38 x 24 x 15.2 cm)
• Number of Compartments  -> 4 + Main Compartment

What I like: For the best camera sling bag, the Think Tank Retrospective 30 has you covered. If you are a backpacker traveling with a fancy DSLR camera, you’re going to need adequate protection to comfortably transport your kit. The Retrospective 30 sling pack provides that and more. It is absolutely loaded with storage and organizational features, which is a big win.

For photographers who need a little extra space in their camera bag, the spacious Think Tank Retrospective 30 is the way to go. At 3.2 pounds, the Think Tank Retrospective is quite heavy though relatively light enough to carry over your shoulder. The internal dimensions – 15 x 6 x 9.5″ – are large enough to accommodate a larger camera system, like a Fuji X-Series.

The addition of several pockets ensures that you’ll have enough room for all of your extra accessories as well. Other features, like an included rain cover and silenceable velcro, only add to the usefulness of this camera sling bag.

What I don’t like: I am amazed that the main compartment doesn’t zip! Bummer. The Retrospective 30 is definitely bordering on being too heavy to be a comfortable and practical camera sling bag. For nearly $200, this is the most expensive sling pack on my list. That said, if you own a nice camera, then you are probably used to spending heaps of money on your badass camera gear!

Our team liked the pretty low-key look of this bag and felt it was ideal for when they were carrying around some pretty expensive gear without drawing attention. They loved the amount of space for all their gear in this sling and the fact they could easily access their camera from the top of the pack. Another thing they really appreciated was the organisational pockets on the front which were great for storing filters, memory cards and notebooks.

For even more camera bag ideas, check out our in-depth review of the best camera bags .

You’ve seen my top picks for the best sling bags for travel and other activities above. Here are a few more sling packs which are equally as awesome…

#9. Waterfly Sling Pack

Honorable mention.

• Price  -> $19.99
• Weight  -> N/A
• Number of Compartments  -> 1 + Main Compartment

What I like: For the price, the Waterfly Sling Pack is hard to beat. An investment in one of these sling packs is next to nothing! The Waterfly is marketed as a waterproof sling bag, though I think it is more water resistant. Either way, it does indeed offer decent weather protection.

Its 10-liter inner compartment is perfect for day hikes and urban exploration. The breathable strap is comfortable even after wearing the bag for long periods.

What I don’t like: I have questions about the Waterfly’s long-term durability. But for 20 bucks, you can’t expect the sling pack to last forever I guess. It is kind of annoying how this company claims the Waterfly is both waterproof and water resistant. It is one or the other, it can’t be both! Come on!

Our team loved the low profile of this sling and combined with how cheap it is, they felt it was a great accompaniment for short trips, backpacking and casual days out. They loved that it could be thrown over your shoulder and carried just enough to keep things light and free for the day with no fuss.

#10. Monarc Sling

Most sylish sling pack.

• Price  -> $99.99
• Weight  -> N/A
• Capacity  -> 20 Liters
• Number of Compartments -> 1 main compartment

What I like: The Monarc Sling Bag is a reasonably sized bag for everyday carry. At 10L, it is designed with convenience in mind, suitable for the daily commute to the office or for carrying personal items when traveling by plane. With water-resistant zippers and fabric, you won’t have to worry about the weather; your stuff will always stay dry.

I’ve had a very positive experience with the Monarc Sling Bag. It fits my 15″ laptop perfectly and makes a great bag for my daily commutes to coworking spaces. I love the design and the multiple ways I am able to wear it on my back. With all the compartments, I find my stuff quickly. This bag has quickly become my go-to everyday bag.

What I don’t like : The only downside, in my opinion, was the lack of a user manual on the bag tag. I wish the tag had a clear description of all the functionalities. When I first received the bag, it took me an hour or so to look online and figure out all the functions. Other than that, I really appreciate all the compartments the bag includes. It is really easy to stay organised and it’s become one of my favourite bits of travel gear .

#11. Pacsafe Vibe 325  Crossbody Sling

• Price  -> $69.95
• Weight  -> 1 lb. 3.8 oz.
• Capacity  -> 1o Liters

What I like: Pacsafe has arrived on my best sling bags list again. This time it is for the Pacsafe Vibe 325. As another very safety-conscious sling pack, the Vibe 325 is loaded with cool security features even if it is a minimalist sling pack.

The roobar AT locking system allows you to secure your zippers and helps prevent pickpocket theft. Furthermore, the RFID-safe blocking material built into a pocket in the main compartment helps protect IDs and credit cards from electronic scanning theft. It sucks a big one that we have to worry about this kind of thing nowadays, but it is the reality.

Finally, the hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless-steel wire mesh embedded into the fabric helps protect against slash-and-run theft. Thieves won’t stand a chance. Bam.

What I don’t like: The Pacsafe 325 does run a bit small so don’t expect to pack anything other than the basic/important essentials. Some users have reported discomfort with the straps and the feel of carrying the pack.

Our team are generally big fans of Pacsafe bags and really love the added security they feel carrying around their valuables inside this sling. They did confirm to us that it felt a little on the small side but they felt it worked perfectly as an accompaniment to their bigger bag for things like their passport, wallet and phone.

#12. Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

• Price  -> $119.95
• Weight  ->1 lb. 10 oz.
• Capacity  -> 6 Liters

What I like: For another one of the best camera sling bags, I recommend getting to know the Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L. This camera sling bag is indeed small, and minimalist and can only fit one DSLR camera. But, that’s all you need right?

It features easy clamshell access to the main camera-carrying compartment and a front accessory organization pocket. The secondary chest strap provides additional security for when you are traveling in cities.

I have to give the Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L big points for its weather-conscious design. The outer fabric is 400-denier shell fabric to help keep your gear dry when the rain clouds roll in, there is no need to panic. It also features a weatherproof zipper.

What I don’t like: For a 6-liter camera sling pack, I find the price ($119.95) to be expensive. For the price, I’d like to see a slightly larger sling bag with more features. If you are traveling with multiple lenses, then this pack is not for you.

Our team were really impressed by this camera sling and felt it was a great alternative to a bulking camera bag. They loved that it included proper camera dividers and it could be swung around for quick access to their gear. The additional transparent pockets on the inner pocket were also great for photographers needing to quickly grab extra batteries or memory cards.

#13. Inateck Sling Pack

Best for air travel.

• Price  -> $27.95
• Capacity  -> 4 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 1 Main Compartment

The Inateck Sling Bag is a stylish and functional accessory designed for everyday carry, travel, and outdoor activities. It boasts a compact yet spacious design, measuring 34 x 15 x 8 cm (13.8 x 5.9 x 3.1 inches) with a 4L capacity, making it suitable for carrying essentials such as phones, a Nintendo Switch, or an iPad Mini. The bag is constructed with 900D polyester, featuring YKK zippers and a Duraflex buckle, ensuring durability, water resistance, and a weight of only 0.8 pounds. Its adjustable shoulder strap ranges from 29″ to 48″ in length, accommodating various body sizes and carrying preferences.

The bag features a unique design with angled cuts and a futuristic look, maintaining a low profile while offering an expandable compartment for larger items like water bottles or umbrellas. This compartment includes elastic webbing to secure items in place. Internally, the bag offers an impressive organization system, including a main compartment with pockets for electronics and smaller items, an iPad Mini-sized pocket, elastic bands for pens or cables, and a secure back pocket with card slots for valuables.

Complete Comparison Table

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Now that you have seen my top picks for the best sling packs on the market, there are a few other factors to consider before buying a sling pack.

Every person has different tastes, needs, and expectations for any given sling pack. First, you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions:

• What purpose do I want a sling pack to serve?
• How much do I want to spend on a sling bag?
• What will I be using my slick pack for the most?

After you sort out some of these important questions, you can then base your final decision on whichever sling pack will be the best fit for your own personal travel style.

The best thing about a sling bag? They are almost always Ryanair carry-on bag compatible too!

Finding the Best Sling Bag Size

Finding the best sling bag size for yourself is pretty easy really as most of your options are not wide-ranging in terms of size. The biggest sling pack on my list is the  Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag . At 21 liters, this sling bag is great for storing more than just the basics.

In most cases though, you have just 8 liters or so to work with. You must have realistic expectations regarding your sling pack! They are minimalist backpacks intended to contain small, useful items that you intend to keep close to your person.

I love sling packs for festivals, beach days, and city trips, and as a carry-on bag. They are NOT really best for hiking or as a primary daypack. If you expect to load your sling pack with plenty of shit, then you might want to reconsider getting one, or at least go with the biggest sling pack out there if that’s what you need.

As I said, sling packs and minimalism go hand in hand. You’ll find that traveling with a sling pack is awesome because you are not burdened with a heavy, bulky backpack. All of your items are easy to access, and most of all safe from external threats.

Which Sling Packs Have the Best Features?

Just like every individual backpacker, each sling pack on this list has its own character and personality. Are you a fan of pockets, zippers, and compartments galore? Do you prefer a few pockets and a well-organized main compartment? You’ll need to ask these questions!

The point is, once you determine your personal organizational needs, you should target that kind of sling pack.

I personally find it handy to have a few zip pockets on the exterior. Once you start having 5 or 6 different pocks plus the main compartment, you might find that to be excessive. Even in a small sling pack, you can lose track of where the hell you put stuff!

I like a good balance of simplicity, practical, versatile, and reliable. Above all else, the best sling bag is the most functional sling bag for your own needs.

Having a spot to put your most important items is the goal. That is why I am a big fan of the  Patagonia Atom Sling . It is simple, compact, and very functional, which is all I ask when considering which packs are indeed the best sling bags.

To test these sling packs we sent different members of our team out with each one for a proper test run over a decent period of time.

Packability

A sling pack might be smaller than a backpack but it still needs to be able to pack a decent amount of stuff. So we awarded top points for how packable each one was and how well it optimised the space provided. Extra points were also awarded for how well each pack facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by packing and unpacking. Simple!

Another point we paid particular attention to was how well each was also to unpack. Did the design make it easy to get at your gear or do you turn into Mary Poppins when you need to grab something on the go!?

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

Slings by their nature are usually pretty light and low profile. At the same time being carried on one shoulder means comfort and weight are of optimal importance when it comes to picking the right one.

No one wants their sling digging into their shoulder all day, so those that maximised carry comfort whilst minimising weight were awarded full marks.

Functionality

One of the most important factors, when we were reviewing these packs, was functionality. In other words, how does each sling fulfilled its primary purpose… so in order to test them out when used them for exactly that!

So let’s say a sling is for photographers, then we checked out how well it handled a camera and how well it facilitated photography on the go. If it was for carrying valuables, then we check out how safe the sling felt. You get the gist right!?

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well, those people are fools obviously not TBB testers because here we don’t do things by halves! Nah! Here we expect our gear to not only perform well but to do it whilst looking good too… a bit like us!

Durability and Weatherproofing

If you’re putting expensive gear into your sling, then you want it to be safe from the weather. You also don’t want to be investing in some tat that’s going to be falling apart after a few weeks. So we took built quality and weatherproofing seriously. We inspected the materials used, checked out how the zippers felt in use and had a good look at the pressure points most likely to break.

Next, we gave the weatherproofing a good old test by pouring a pint of water over the slings to see how well they fared!

Still have some questions about the best sling packs? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is a sling pack?

A sling pack is like a mini backpack that is secured across the shoulders and chest with only one strap, just like a sling bag. It sits tight around the body and is a go-to for loads of travellers.

Which sling bag is best?

We absolutely love the Nomatic Navigator Sling . It’s stylish, extremely durable and comfortable to carry thanks to the padded shoulder strap.

Are sling bags bad for your back?

No, sling bags are not bad for your back, unless you’re carrying around tons of weight with it. But since the bags are normally small, the weight has no effect on the body.

How much capacity do sling bags normally have?

Sling bags are relatively small and range from 6-15 liters on average. Some bags have multiple compartments.

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Congratulations, you have made it to the end of my best sling packs review! Well by now you are well of aware of the benefits of choosing an awesome sling bag for travel.

In the end, sling packs are great travel companions. They are compact, minimalist, and very handy little units to take on any backpacking adventure in addition to being extremely practical for everyday use.

Now that you know what to look for when it comes to picking the best sling bag for travel, you are now ready to make the informed choice of which one to go with.

I know that choosing the perfect sling pack can be a challenge, so I am glad you took the initiative to read this epic review!

If you are still having doubts about which sling pack is best, I recommend going for the  Patagonia Atom Sling ; my top pick for the overall best sling bag of the year.

Did you enjoy reading this best sling bags review? Let me know how I did in the comments. Happy travels amigos.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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The best thing about a “concealed carry” is the ability to store seldom needed personal documents separate and protected from daily wear and tear. I don’t need it for its intended use, but still something I look for.

Worth article! I really like your post. Thanks so much for sharing!

5.11 is actually my first sling style backpack. I am left handed and it was easy to convert to a left handed sling. I have carried this bag everywhere for multiple months now and it is still holding up great. It doesn’t hold a ton of stuff inside, but it is perfectly suited for daily general use. The quality is great, with superior stitching forming around the bag, and holding it together tightly.

How can your “Best Sling for Hiking” not have a holder for a water bottle? Actually I don’t think any of them did.

Hey Michael! Yeah, no water bottle holders here. Sling packs are really just for toting in a camera or some snacks. The diagonal design doesn’t allow for a secure exterior pocket. You’ll have to have a hand for your waterbottle if you’re only packing with a sling. Your lightweight, bottle-toting alternative is a fanny pack.

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Best Travel Sling Bag 2024

For me, the best travel sling bag (also referred to as a crossbody bag) is the perfect way to carry my personal belongings whether I am out sightseeing or travelling to my destination.  I have a specific lightweight cross body travel bag that I use whenever we travel and leave my usual handbag at home.

As I tend to carry all the families’ passports and tickets etc, for me, the best sling bag for travel is something that can fit my purse, mobile, and camera as well as other odds and ends I need during a day of sightseeing.

If you are also in the market for one of the best travel crossbody bags for travel, then you are in the right place because in this article I share all my research for the current best crossbody bags for travel.

In this guide, I look at a variety of travel crossbody bags and take a closer look at their various features.  I also talk about why you might want to consider a crossbody anti-theft bag which has inbuilt security features.

This guide looks at some of the best sling bag brands, including a few of the Pacsafe bags and Travelon anti-theft bags, two of the most well-known brands when it comes to anti-theft handbag options.  

Whether you are looking for the best sling bag for men or women, the best messenger bag for travel or even a sling bag for a laptop, this article covers various options and no doubt includes the perfect crossbody bag for travel to suit your needs.

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer  here  for more information.

Page Contents

• 1 What is a crossbody bag and why do I recommend it for travel?
• 2 My pick for the best travel sling bag 2024:Travelon Crossbody Bucket Bag
• 3 Comparison chart for the best crossbody bags for travel 2024
• 4.2 Compartments 
• 4.3 Security features 
• 4.5 Comfort
• 5.1 Best sling bag for travel overall: Travelon anti-theft crossbody bucket bag
• 5.2 Best travel handbag: Travelon anti-theft signature crossbody bag
• 5.3 Best sling bag for men: Pacsafe shoulder bag
• 5.4 Best budget option: OutdoorMaster sling bag
• 5.5 Travelon anti-theft classic messenger bag
• 5.6 Best leather sling bag for men: Bullcaptain sling bag
• 5.7 NeatPack crossbody bag
• 5.8 Baggallini lightweight crossbody bag
• 5.9 Pacsafe Citysafe Cx
• 5.10 Travelon anti-theft active bag

>> Looking for something else?  We have guides on a range of luggage including: 1. Kid’s Ride On Luggage 2. Carry On Backpack 3. Wheeled Backpack 4. Kids Backpacks 5. Kids Suitcases

What is a crossbody bag and why do I recommend it for travel?

First of all, what are travel crossbody bags (or sling bags) and why do I recommend you use one instead of your usual handbag when you travel?  

Cross body bags are bags that have a single shoulder strap, which is designed to be worn across the front of your body. These bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes and designs but are ultimately designed to hold everything you need for a day of sightseeing or while you are in transit.

For me, the best shoulder bag for travel is one that can not only fit my camera, purse, passport, travel vouchers, bottle of water, mobile and various other travel accessories but also keeps my items safe.

The best crossbody travel bag does all of this and more:

• The best crossbody bag for travel will have stacks of room to easily carry everything you need for a day of sightseeing or while you are in transit;
• The best crossbody bags for travel have multiple compartments designed to keep these various items well organised;
• Crossbody bags have a padded and adjustable shoulder strap designed to keep you comfortable despite holding a fair bit of weight;
• Having your bag in front of you (or on your side), rather than on your back like a backpack, allows you to easily access your items as needed as well as keeping them in view at all times; and
• Many of the best crossbody travel bags have built-in security features to prevent your physical belongings and electronic information from being stolen.

My pick for the best travel sling bag 2024: Travelon Crossbody Bucket Bag

Don’t have time to read the entire article?  Well, my pick for the best travel sling bag is the Travelon Anti Theft Crosbody Bucket Bag .  I think for the price and what you get you just can’t go past the Travelon brand and this particular Travelon bag is jam-packed with some great features.

Most importantly, it is a great size for travelling, whether it’s a day of sightseeing or while in transit to reach your destination, it will fit everything you want.  It also has plenty of great built-in security features such as a locking compartment, lockdown down straps, RFID blocking pockets and being slash resistance.

I’ve been using this bag for a few years or so now while I travel and really love it.

Keep reading below for a full review of this crossbody bag, or click here to buy now.

Comparison chart for the best crossbody bags for travel 2024

What to look for in a crossbody bag for travel.

The best bag for me is not necessarily going to be the best bag for you. Before rushing out and purchasing a bag, take time to consider the following:

What is it that you are going to carry in your bag? This is where I have gone wrong in the past and purchased a bag that wasn’t big enough for everything I wanted to carry.

For me, I usually carry my purse, mobile phone, notebook, pens, Go Pro and water bottle.   The best crossbody for travel will fit everything in comfortably and still close properly, keeping all your items safe and secure.

Compartments 

Ok so you have considered what you want to carry, now consider if these items need their own specially designed compartments. I don’t mind a few compartments, but too many and I can’t find where I have put things.

If you are travelling with a laptop or tablet, perhaps you will want one of the sling bags for laptops or a sling bag for iPads? If so, double-check what size laptop the bag caters for before purchasing to ensure it will correctly fit your laptop.

Security features 

There are a variety of anti theft bag brands that make anti theft cross body bag options (Travelon or Pacsafe are two of the best brands that come to mind) with a variety of security features such as:

• Secret Pockets: Most anti theft crossbody travel bag options have hidden pockets or small internal compartments for additional protection for your most valuable items.
• RFID Protection: RFID is the same technology that is found in your passport, key cards, driver’s license, smartphones etc which allows you to swipe or tap to pay for items or to be identified. The best anti-theft handbags for travel have built-in technology that blocks an RFID reader from accessing your personal information. RFID protection is usually in the form of a special pocket within your bag where you can store your cards to prevent electronic theft. An RFID anti-theft cross body travel bag is highly recommended to protect yourself against identity theft.
• Lock : Some anti-theft travel handbags come with locking zippers as well as the ability to lock the bag to a fixed item such as a table leg.
• Slash proof Construction: Some theft-proof handbags are made with super durable fabric which includes steel mesh to avoid thieves who use knives to slash open backpacks to physically steal your items. Straps include steel cables to prevent straps from being cut.
• YKK Zippers : Ensure your bag has high-quality zippers that aren’t easily pried apart, you also don’t want poor quality zippers that break mid-trip, and you can no longer close your bag.
• Water Resistance : A waterproof anti-theft bag or even a water-resistant pack will help protect your items from rainy weather or accidental spillages.

Crossbody bags come in a range of styles and colours so you can choose a bag that is not only practical but looks good too.  The great thing is many of them come in unisex designs so men and women can carry the same bag.

Once you put all your various items in your bag, you may be surprised just how much it weighs. So be sure your crossbody bag has a padded and adjustable shoulder strap to avoid neck and shoulder strain at the end of a long day of sightseeing or travel.

Top 10 sling bag reviews 2024

Best sling bag for travel overall: travelon anti-theft crossbody bucket bag.

Travelon is one of the biggest names when it comes to the best travel handbag options, and the Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bucket Bag is the first of three Travelon travel bags that feature in this list of best sling bags for women and men. 

This particular Travelon anti theft travel bag provides the highest security for all of your everyday items as well as stylish variations that will complement any outfit.  This is also my pick for the best sling bag for travel overall.

This Travelon shoulder bag is a lightweight shoulder bag that provides comfort and security. It offers a slash-resistant body and slash-resistant shoulder strap that can be attached to any chair, post or table.

It has two expandable mesh pockets that will fit all you need for a day out exploring, including your camera, a water bottle and a small umbrella.  Despite its large size, this is also one of the lightest sling bags in this review.

A great security feature of this Travelon anti-theft travel bag is that it provides RFID blocking pockets. This is perfect for storing your credit cards and passports without the concern of any of your information being stolen.

This Travelon anti-theft shoulder bag has an interior zippered pocket for extra security and a zip rear pocket with a removable LED light. Travelon has lived up to its name with this best anti-theft sling bag.

Perfect for the modern-day traveller, this bag is extremely functional with top of the market security capabilities and is big enough for everything you could possibly need.  If you’re after something bigger, Travelon also makes some great anti-theft backpacks .

Update: I now own this bag and have been using it for several years and LOVE IT!

Click here for more reviews and to check the price.

Best travel handbag: Travelon anti-theft signature crossbody bag

Yet another Travelon anti theft travel bag that contains both amazing security features and the perfect design. The Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Crossbody is the best travel for ladies as it can easily pass as a handbag rather than a travel bag.  Certainly one of the cute crossbody bags for travel in this guide.

This best travel handbag is lightweight with plenty of room to keep your everyday items organised.  The storage of this bag is impressive considering the size, which is why it is highly rated among the ladies!

With this travel bag, there will be more time to enjoy your trip instead of worrying about being pickpocketed. It has multiple locking compartments, with RFID blocking slots in the main compartment as well as an LED light.   

This crossbody is slash-resistant, including the strap, which can easily be attached to a table or chair while seated. The strap is adjustable, making it perfect for short or tall people and can be worn over the shoulder or across the body.

The Travelon Anti-Theft classic sling bag is not only a good handbag for travel but can be used as an everyday handbag, giving you peace of mind everywhere you go!

Click here for more reviews and to check the price

Best sling bag for men: Pacsafe shoulder bag

Pacsafe is another big brand name when it comes to the best anti theft shoulder bags for travel.  This Pacsafe anti theft bag is a great choice for those wanting one of the best cross body travel bag options with all the security features as well as a sturdy build. A great option for people looking for one of the best sling bags for men or sling bags for ladies too.

A lightweight yet sturdy build with zippered main and front pockets, this travel sling bag for men or women is very roomy while also looking sophisticated and smart. It is a great sized bag that will fit all your belongings nicely.

This Pacsafe anti-theft travel bag has hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless steel wire mesh that is embedded into the fabric which will stop any potential slash and run theft.

Like most Pacsafe anti-theft bags, this bag has RFIDsafe blocking material to protect your ID and credit cards against hacker scanning and also a Lockabout Security Clip and smart zipper security that provide multiple layers of protection. The lockdown points for the zippers fight off the intentions of pickpockets!

Other great features of this best man bag for travel are the adjustable Carrysafe slash guard shoulder strap, a tablet/11-inch MacBook sleeve and the Turn & Lock Security Hook allowing you to attach your bag to a secure fixture.

This Pacsafe sling bag for guys or ladies is a great option if you are after one of the RFID crossbody travel bags, it has great security features but will also serve as a great everyday bag.

Best budget option: OutdoorMaster sling bag

If you are after a simple travel bag and are not overly concerned with the fancy security features, the OutdoorMaster Sling Bag is a great budget option. It is a great alternative to a backpack and is the perfect style for both men and women.

The OutdoorMaster Sling Bag is made of lightweight, sturdy material. It is very practical as it contains several different compartments to store all your belongings and more! These compartments are equipped with smart pockets, including a hidden anti-theft pocket and a water bottle holder.  There is plenty of room for your camera, tablet even a small laptop computer up to 12 inches.

Not only is this one of the great crossbody travel bags for women or men, but the reversible shoulder strap also makes it the ideal bag for both right and left-handed people.

This budget sling bag comes in a variety of colours and is designed to be comfortable as well as durable which is perfect for those long days out and about.

Travelon anti-theft classic messenger bag

If you are after one of the stylish women’s anti theft travel bags, you will love this Travelon anti theft messenger bag which is available in a range of stylish colour options.

Looking at this Travelon anti-theft bag from the outside, you would have no idea how many great security features it has. With a rear organiser that has RFID blocking features to protect your cards and passport, along with front zip pocket locks and an adjustable slash-resistant shoulder strap, anti-theft travel bags for women like this are sure to help keep all your belongings very well protected from thieves.

It also has great organisational features such as the 4 wall pockets that are located inside the locking compartment, a pen loop and two mesh expansion pockets that would easily hold sunglasses, an umbrella or a water bottle.  

Another great feature of this Travelon anti theft cross body bag is that it can easily be secured to a stationary object to prevent it being involved in a “grab and go” incident.

This Travelon anti theft crossbody bag is made from polyester and available in so many different stylish colour options, this is one of the great anti theft travel bags women will love.

Best leather sling bag for men: Bullcaptain sling bag

Men and women alike, who are after one of the best leather crossbody bags for travel,  will love this sling bag by Bullcaptain , which is genuine 100% leather and practical for both everyday use and travel.

This leather sling bag men and women will both love, has a single large compartment as well as two additional external zippered pockets for smaller items.  This bag is big enough for everything you need during your travels, including your phone, wallet, iPad, camera, passport and more.

Constructed from 100% high quality cowhide leather, not only is this bag practical but it is super stylish as well.  Other features of this leather sling bag for women and men include an adjustable shoulder strap, metal buckle and headphone cable hole.

This is a super stylish bag that the fashion conscious male and female traveller will just love.

Click here to read more reviews and to check the price.

NeatPack crossbody bag

Another great option for women looking for a great functional travel bag is this NeatPack Crossbody bag .  It comes with plenty of space to store everything you need for a day of sightseeing, plus it has some built in security features to keep your valuables safe.

As well as the main spacious compartment, this bag has two additional front zippered pockets and another drop pocket.  It has a side pocket for a water bottle. 

Inside the main compartment is a zippered RFID pocket which is perfect for keeping your passport and credit cards.  The bag is spacious and you could easily fit in an iPad, plus the back of the bag has a velcro pocket which is great for storing maps or tickets that you need to access quickly.

The bag comes with an adjustable strap which is also padded to ensure it is comfortable for hours of wearing.  The durable nylon fabric repels moisture and stains which is ideal for long days of travel.

Baggallini lightweight crossbody bag

Inspired by the classic boho style the Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bag will have you travelling in style. It is a functional cross body bag that will keep your items organized and secure.  This is the bag that I use for day to day use and I just love it.

The bag itself is made of water-resistant nylon fabric, so there is no need to worry about personal items being destroyed on rainy days. It will also keep credit card and passport information secure as it is fit with RFID blocking technology.   This boho tote is lightweight and doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the interior. It offers compartments for all your belongings as well as exterior pockets to keep essential items at your fingertips.

The strap is secure and adjustable. You can choose to make it short and wear it as a shoulder bag or make it as long as needed to fit comfortably across the body.

The Everywhere Lightweight Crossbody Bag is very popular among women due to its stylish design and colour options. It is extremely versatile as it is a great bag for daily use if you are not travelling on a regular basis.

Pacsafe Citysafe Cx

Pacsafe travel bags make some of the best options for anti theft cross body handbags and this Pacsafe Citysafe Cx is no exception. This versatile bag is jam packed with added security as well as having superb organisational features.

Although still very lightweight, this is an eXomesh bag meaning it has hidden stainless steel wire mesh that is embedded into the fabric and the adjustable Carrysafe Slashguard Strap is wire-reinforced and also helps to protect against slash or cut and run theft.

Like most Pacsafe travelsafe bags , these crossbody travel handbags have built-in RFIDsafe Blocking Material which will protect your ID and credit card information from would-be hacker scanners.

Inside the Pacsafe anti-theft shoulder bag is a zippered compartment that would fit a phone and passport. The main compartment of these Pacsafe handbags is zippered and can easily fit a tablet, especially when you consider it folds out to allow for extra space when needed.

Other great features of these Pacsafe anti theft bags are the Turn & Lock security hook, allowing you to secure the bag to a stationary object, and the ability to attach the zipper pullers to security hooks.

This Pacsafe shoulder bag would be the perfect handbag for travel and also an everyday handbag.

Travelon anti-theft active bag

If you are looking for a bag small in size and lightweight that contains all the security features Travelon is known for, the Anti-Theft Active Bag is the one to choose from.

The large main compartment and the front pocket both have locking zippers to protect from pickpockets. The main compartment comes with a zippered RFID blocking card and passport pocket. For complete protection and peace of mind, the bag is slash-resistant, including the strap that is also adjustable and can be locked to a table or chair.

This cross body bag provides plenty of room to fit all the essentials and to stay organised, which is perfect for travel.   And an interior tethered key clip with LED light helps you find items in your bag. 

With three colour options to choose from and an affordable price, this is a great bag for the female traveller.

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Hopefully you found this guide on choosing a cross body bag helpful.  We have guides on other travel products too such as kids suitcases ,  carry on backpacks  and  wheeled backpacks.

2 thoughts on “Best Travel Sling Bag 2024”

These are great travel sling bags & handbag… I loved the master Sling bag. Visit our T-traxx bags website for executive bags.

Thanks guys – why not send us an email and we can chat about trialing some of your bags?

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The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel in 2024 [Men & Women]

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The Benefits of a Sling Backpack

Things to consider with sling backpacks, 1. a bargain backpack perfect for everyday use, 2. big-brand quality for a compact carry bag, 3. retro looks and modern-day convenience, 4. get festival-ready with a rope bag, 6. military styling for modern-day ops of all kinds, 7. a stylish, tablet-friendly urban sling bag, 8. bright, bold, and beautiful: funky sling bags suitable for all occasions, 9. a rugged, water-resistant sling backpack, 10. super-secure with integrated combination lock, 11. locking zippers and slash-resistant fabrics, 12. large enough to cope, yet light enough to carry, 13. vintage cool for the man about town, 14. security conscious sling bag with locking zippers, final thoughts.

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Sling backpacks are well-suited for trendy travelers, surf dudes, sun worshipers, and mountain climbers alike. Slinging your stuff over your shoulder has never been easier, and there are plenty of crossbody bags out there for you to choose from.

Though a sling backpack will dramatically reduce the amount of useable storage space available compared to a standard backpack, it will still offer you a sleek, chic, and useful way to carry your belongings .

Sling packs allow you to keep your hands free and give you the option to wear it either across your body or close to your chest. You can adjust the shoulder strap to find your perfect setting, and padded and breathable back panels will prevent you from getting hot and sweaty.

These types of bags also offer super fast access to your belongings , and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

Hot Tip: Sling backpacks are particularly useful as camera bags since they make it so quick and easy to access your camera. However, if you’d prefer to travel with a specific bag for your camera, here’s a great guide on the best travel camera bags .

Every sling-style backpack is different from the next. Available in a wide range of colors, styles, and sizes, the right sling is as stylish and practical as you are. Consider the following before making your decision:

Size and Capacity

Sling backpacks are more compact than a big backpack and have a much slimmer silhouette. With anywhere from 5- to 30-liter capacity options, the average sling backpack can hold around 8 to 10 liters of your most personal belongings on the move.

Part of the beauty of a sling is its streamlined look and sleek shape. The downside of the sling is that it will never hold as much as a regular backpack — so you shouldn’t expect it to. Designed to be much more minimalist, your sling backpack is there to carry essential items like your cash, coins, wallet , phone, noise-canceling headphones , and sometimes an e-reader or tablet.

Material and Durability

Sling bags need to look great and be built to last. For durability, choose a bag that is made from a strong, hard-wearing material such as canvas or heavy cotton.

If you are planning on heading out into unpredictable weather or considering a water-based adventure, you may want to look at nylon or PVC bags to help protect against water damage.

Bottom Line: Because of the way you wear the bag, the fabric will need to be smooth enough not to chafe and breathable enough to prevent sweat patches from forming on your upper body.

The key to comfort when wearing your sling backpack is to keep it light. Carry just a few of your most essential belongings, and you’ll have a load far lighter than over-stuffed backpacks.

But pack too much, and you will soon know about it! Unlike traditional backpacks , with a sling, the weight is not evenly distributed across both shoulders. This can lead to a sore shoulder on 1 side of your body if the load is too heavy.

Sling backpacks are designed to offer flexibility when wearing, but this means you lose some of the additional stability and support features that traditional backpacks offer. Waist belts, sternum straps, and other load-relieving elements are not present on a sling backpack.

The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel

• Waterfly Chest Sling Backpack

With a sleek and straightforward design, this ultra-lightweight sling backpack looks great and will handle all your daily commuting or vacationing essentials. Made from soft, water-resistant nylon, this sling has a 7-liter capacity and plenty of extra pockets.

The main compartment is large enough to comfortably transport your iPad or a magazine, while the extra key rack, card pouch, wallet pouch, notebook pouch, and 2 pen pouches will keep all your gear safe and organized on the move. For super-easy hydration on packed trains, long walks, or anywhere else, the side mesh pockets will keep your water bottle close at hand.

Your shoulder strap can be adjusted to fit any size or shape and can be moved from 23.6 inches to 43.3 inches. On the strap itself, there is a useful little pouch that will keep your phone safe and accessible.

All in all, this is a nice little sling backpack that you can take anywhere.

What We Like

• Handy pouch on the sling strap for quick access to items

What We Don’t Like

• Water bottle holder is a bit small

• Osprey Packs Daylite Shoulder Sling

Made by one of the world’s most reputable luggage brands , the Daylite Sling from Osprey is perfect for your daily commute, days out, or a trip to the beach. Small enough to be easy to carry, yet roomy enough to hold everything you need, this is an outstanding quality sling pack.

This pack is made from high-quality, ripstop nylon and features Osprey’s soft and breathable NeoSpacer mesh material on the shoulder strap for superior comfort. The Daylite promises to be water-resistant and extremely comfortable to carry, including a key clip and front zippered mesh pocket for storing smaller items.

The Daylite comes in a choice of 4 funky colors, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a good quality sling backpack from a leading luggage brand.

• Padded and breathable sling strap
• Designed to be worn on the right shoulder only

• Leaper Retro Sling Bag

Made from soft and washable canvas with accents of elegant-looking PU leather, this messenger sling bag has a retro look that’s perfect for festivals, vacations, and those who like to stand out from the crowd.

Big enough to comfortably hold a slim laptop up to 13 inches, this may not be the largest bag on the market, but it is still a funky, practical alternative to a traditional backpack or tote . It also has additional straps so you can carry this bag by either the handle or the adjustable shoulder strap.

There is plenty of space in this medium-sized slingback: you get a zipper pocket in the front flap, 2 side pockets, and a main compartment with further inner pockets. You’ll find enough room to keep your laptop , iPhone, wallet, snacks, drinks, and other essentials all in 1 place.

Available in a variety of colors, this retro sling backpack is an excellent choice.

• Sling strap is adjustable
• Laptop pocket is not padded

• NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag and Urban Travel Backpack

With a ton of compartments to stow your stuff, this sling backpack also comes with an RFID-blocking anti-theft pocket for your most vulnerable valuables. Made of water-resistant polyester canvas and constructed using top-quality zippers and durable straps, this budget backpack offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Ergonomically designed for comfort, the NeatPack bag can be slung over either your shoulder or worn across your chest to keep it safe from thieves. With a convenient front cell phone pocket and separate headphone access, you can easily get to everything you need while on the go. The padded, breathable strap helps keep the bag comfortable and lightweight wherever you are.

Available in a choice of colors, this little bag would work well for school, travel, or even your daily commute. The sling design allows you to keep your hands free to cycle, walk, or run to your next destination.

• Spacious main compartment and lots of pockets
• Zippers can break easily

Hot Tip: For more options, check out these anti-theft travel backpacks .

5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag Shoulder Pack

Get your gear in order with this fully customizable tactical bag made from water-resistant and incredibly lightweight 1050D nylon. The fully-cushioned adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to find your customized fit, and the grenade design makes this a must for anyone with a penchant for military styling.

With a coms pocket at the shoulder, a covert tactical pocket at the rear, and a secondary double zip pocket, this sling pack offers plenty of organized storage areas . An interior stash pocket paired with a hydration pocket and a pass-through port make it easy to stay hydrated , too.

Equipped with the patented 5.11 Tier System to integrate with other 5.11 RUSH tactical bags, plus YKK self-healing zippers and a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, this is a superb backpack perfect for any adventure.

• Has a hydration pocket and a pass-through port
• Can chafe your neck if packed heavy

Solo New York Ludlow Universal Tablet Sling Bag

• Padded compartment protects tablets up to 12.9″” and laptops up to 12″
• Front zippered pocket
• Front zip-down organizer section
• Adjustable shoulder strap

A break from the usual sack-shaped sling bags, the Solo New York Ludlow is designed specifically with tablet and smaller laptops in mind, holding up to 12.9-inch tablets and up to 12-inch laptops in a padded compartment.

The bag also comes with a front zippered pocket and has a front zip-down organizer area. An adjustable shoulder strap ensures it stays safe and where it needs to be as you go about town.

• Specifically designed for tablets and smaller laptops
• The square, loose-fit design really makes it more of a shoulder bag

MOSISO Sling Backpack

Choose from pretty florals or bright solid colors with these youthful sling backpacks that would be great for students, adventurers, and commuters alike. Big enough to carry an iPad Air or a smaller tablet in the large main compartment , this bag looks and feels much more expensive than it actually is.

With a ton of multi-functional storage areas, you can fill up the accessory compartment and pockets with your charging cables, power cords, books, papers, personal items, and snacks, while the mesh bottle holder will keep your liquid refreshment safe.

The shoulder strap can be adjusted to reach between 18 and 36 inches, and you can carry this bag on either shoulder as well as across your chest.

Padded and breathable straps help ease discomfort and eliminate excess moisture, while the water-repellent polyester will keep wet weather at bay. This is a nice-looking sling bag that won’t break the bank.

• Stylish floral designs
• Mesh external pocket is a bit weak

Nicgid Sling Bag Chest Shoulder Backpack

Made from high-quality nylon that resists water and rips, this is a compact carry bag that can be worn across your shoulder to keep your hands free and your load light. This design is perfect for days out, trips abroad, and even on your regular commute .

With multiple storage areas, the large main compartment holds your iPad Mini, e-reader, or notebooks, while the inner pouch will keep your cell phone safe. The front of the bag has 4 zippered pockets that are super convenient for accessing items you need on the go. Your keys, passports, pens, and money will all be within easy reach.

The shoulder strap is padded and can be adjusted, and this bag is available in a variety of colors. We think this pack is sleek and practical.

• Durable and comfortable to wear
• Strap is not reversible to wear on both shoulders

Anti Theft Sling Bag Shoulder Crossbody Backpack

With great-looking, water-resistant oxford fabric, this is a minimalist shoulder bag that is sleek on the outside and spacious on the inside.

In the large main compartment, you can easily carry your iPad, notebooks, documents, wallet, money, cell phone, and other everyday essentials. The 2-way zipper gives easy access to the main compartment, and the built-in USB port allows you to charge easily on the go.

The side and back zip pockets are perfect for keeping your important items within easy reach, and you can rest assured knowing your valuables are safe in the combination locked main compartment. With an adjustable satchel strap, you can let this bag swing as high or as low as you want, and it can be worn on either shoulder.

Breathable, comfortable, and incredibly lightweight, this is a great little sling backpack for any adventure.

• Combination lock on the main compartment
• External pockets are a little small

Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag

With locking compartments and durable construction, this bag is an excellent choice for anyone embarking on extreme adventures . The slash-resistant sling strap can be attached to a post or a chair, and the RFID-blocking card slots will protect you from identity fraud.

Designed with security in mind, this bag also features a stainless-steel mesh lining that prevents would-be criminals from slashing or ripping your pack to get at your valuables. There are also locking compartments to keep your personal belongings safe on the move.

Look great and keep your stuff safe as you travel with one of the most protective sling backpacks on the market. A good buy for anyone heading out into crowds.

• RFID-blocking pockets
• Main compartment zipper is not easily accessible when bag is worn on 1 shoulder

Kawei Knight Large Sling Bag

Bigger is definitely better when it comes to this oversized sling backpack that has enough room for all your essentials (and then some). Made of water-resistant and nylon, this bag can carry everything you need for work or weekend getaways , including a 15-inch laptop, but its triangular design and minimal weight should ensure it doesn’t become too bulky.

The interior includes several pockets, a main compartment with laptop sleeve, and a secure zippered pouch. Its flap has its own compartment, and there are 2 side pockets.

• Enough space for most things you’d need for a day
• Not stylish, and could actually be too big for those looking to keep it light

Mens Vintage PU Leather Sling Bag

Made from premium leather, this is a stylish sling bag with a timeless feel. With waterproof properties and an ergonomic design , it is as comfortable to wear as it is good-looking. And this bag has a hidden secret: its very own charging port for topping up your cell phone battery using your power bank .

Spacious enough to hold your laptop, iPad, tablet, phone, books, and much more, this bag will keep your gear safe and organized. Multiple pockets add extra hiding holes for smaller items, and the main compartment opens wide for easy access.

Fashionable and spacious, this leather bag is perfect for serious travelers and daily commuters alike.

• Has an external USB port and a headphone jack
• Sling strap could be longer

Pacsafe Vibe 325 10 Liter Anti Theft Sling Bag

Brought to you by the travel experts at Pacsafe, this little sling bag is built to last. Offering enough space to keep all your essentials close at hand yet light enough to wear for hours at a time, this is one of the best sling backpacks your money can buy — but it does come at a price.

Made from high-quality nylon with a wipeable polyester lining, the Pacsafe Vibe offers incredible protection against would-be thieves. Individual compartments can be secured with locking zippers, while the fabric of the bag is cut-resistant and features a lightweight steel mesh inlay to keep your gear safe.

The shoulder strap is padded for comfort and reinforced with wire to prevent it from being slashed or cut in crowded places. The strap can also be used to securely fix your bag to tables or chairs to keep your possessions safe from theft.

Sizable, attractive, and one of the most protective bags on the market, this is an excellent choice for anyone traveling overseas.

• Sling strap is reinforced with wire to be slash-proof
• Quite a narrow bag, so not good for bulky items

Sling backpacks are a great alternative to traditional backpacks when you don’t need to carry too much stuff with you. Filling the void somewhere between fashion and practicality, you can carry them on either shoulder to keep your most valued possessions within easy reach at all times.

Cheaper, lighter, and smaller than a regular daypack , a sling bag will have its limitations. But if you want to remain hands-free and can travel a bit lighter, these are a good option for all types of adventures.

If you’re looking for a little more room and deciding on the best travel backpack, check out this great article on the best travel backpacks for men and women .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sling backpacks bad for your back.

As sling backpacks cause 1-sided strain, they can cause back pain if they are too heavy. Sling backpacks should only be used for lightweight essentials and are not designed for carrying heavy loads for long periods. You will be better off with a backpack for these occasions.

What is a sling backpack?

A sling backpack is quite similar to a regular backpack but the major difference is that it only has 1 strap and it is worn crossbody. A lot of sling backpacks tend to be triangular in shape or slimmer. Given they are worn on 1 shoulder only, they also have smaller capacities to avoid shoulder pain.

Are sling backpacks good for hiking?

We wouldn’t recommend a sling backpack for hiking as they don’t provide the same back support and features regular hiking backpacks would. Sling bags are best left for short urban adventures or when you need quick access to your belongings. Stick to regular backpacks for hiking.

What is the best sling bag?

These are some of the best sling bags that we recommend:

• KAVU Rope Bag

Are sling bags good for travel?

Sling bags offer superfast access to your belongings, and the lightweight design makes them easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Best anti theft bags to avoid pickpockets

If you’re looking to keep your belongings safe during your travels, it’s time to make one of the best investments (besides travel insurance !): an anti-theft bag to avoid being pickpocketed.

In this article, we will look at a few of the most popular options, their pros and cons and discuss what you should look for in an anti-theft bag.

• 1 What is an anti theft travel bag?
• 2 What you should consider when buying an anti theft bag
• 3 Best anti theft bags for travel

What is an anti theft travel bag?

According to our Solo Female Travel Survey , more than a third of women worry about something bad happening on a solo trip. This includes getting sick, having something stolen or being in a dangerous situation. 

Theft is one of the most common safety concerns in countries with low crime rates. For example, 137,000 pickpocketing crimes were reported in Italy in 2019. 

Holding your bag tightly throughout the day can help, but it might not be enough to stop the most professional of thieves from stealing the bag or its contents and, at some point, you will have to use your hands for something else like taking a photo. Here’s where anti-theft bags come in handy.

An anti-theft bag is essentially a bag that makes a pickpocketer’s life as hard as possible.

We consider them a safety and self defense tool and the most efficient way to reduce the risk of pickpockets and theft. They are also an amazing gift for your loved female traveler , or yourself!

An anti theft bag is a purse or backpack with built-in safety features that prevents your belongings from getting stolen from inside the bag. It’s a useful item to bring on a trip, especially if you’re traveling solo for the first time, so you can have an extra layer of protection.

Typical features of the best anti-theft bags include high quality slash-resistant materials, locking clips, cut-resistant shoulder straps, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) protection, and lots of secret pockets and compartments.

Not all anti theft bags are made equal. Taking our community’s recommendations and the expert tips in Empowerful , we will review the best options against key features.

What you should consider when buying an anti theft bag

How can you pick the right anti-theft bag and how to decipher all the technical jargon? Here is a list of features you should look for when choosing an adequate anti theft bag for travel:

• Slash-proof mesh lining: Look for a bag that has this kind of metal mesh interior which will prevent the bag from being cut open. The straps need to have a metal interior also, so they are cut-resistant. 
• RFID protection: There are many thieves that have RFID tools designed to steal information even from a distance. These devices collect private information like credit card numbers or digital passwords that are located inside your bag. RFID protection blocks these devices and makes it impossible for them to steal your information.
• Interlocking zippers: Look for bags with interlocking zippers. So you can secure every compartment and close your bag leaving it locked from the outside.
• External cable: There are many anti theft bags that come with an external cable you can attach to an object. So when you’re seating at a restaurant, besides having your bag nearby, you can attach it to the chair you’re sitting on, making it harder for a thief to take it away. You can also use this as a safety measure when staying at a hotel or hostel , attaching it to your bed or bunk bed while you’re sleeping.
• Water-proof material: Keep your valuables safe from the rain. Look for a water-proof or water-resistant anti theft purse that will keep all your devices and valuables safe and dry, even if it’s raining hard.
• Inside pockets and hidden compartments: These are very useful to organize your stuff and keep specific items such as your wallet, phone or passport more secure.

We will compare the most populat anti-theft bags against this list of features.

Best anti theft bags for travel

There are lots of anti theft travel bags out there but we’ve compiled the best recommendations in this article, with everything from stylish crossbody bags to large backpacks. Take a look!

Pacsafe Citysafe Cx Anti Theft Convertible Crossbody

We love Pacsafe , they’re experts in anti theft technology and have a variety of bags and backpacks available. Plus, they give a 5-year warranty for all their bags and were basically the brand who made anti theft bags cool and popular thus changing the landscape for city travel and anti theft technology. 

There are several bags in their store that are great and we would recommend you make them your first stop in your search for the perfect anti theft bag. We have selected this stylish Citisafe crossbody bag because it’s cute and functional. 

One of our members, Helen, shared: “I never had an issue with pickpockets anywhere I traveled, including London. That’s possibly because I use a Pacsafe crossbody handbag that is slash proof and pickpocket proof, and keep my hand on it in crowds”.

The Pacsafe Citysafe Crossbody bag has a complete anti theft design. It features cut-proof material with an interior steel mesh, main zip pullers attachable to hooks, and RFID blocking compartments. It’s made of soft, durable and water-resistant material. It’s very comfy because of its detachable padded shoulder strap. 

Save some space while packing with this versatile bag, which can be used during day and night. The crossbody is perfect for a casual day, and it can be converted into a small purse to go out at night, whether you’re having a fancy dinner by yourself or doing some bar hopping.

This anti theft travel bag has the option of being secured to a chair or table with a padlock, but it’s not included. For organizing your belongings, the bag includes the following compartments: 1 main compartment with 1 RFID protected pocket, 1 front pocket, 2 internal pockets. It also has magnetic closure for the outer compartment. 

Summary review of Pacsafe Citysafe Cx Anti Theft Convertible Crossbody

Amazon rating : 4.6*

Price range : $80 to $100

Dimensions : 11.0 x 10.2 x 3.2 inches, weight 0.65 lbs.

Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack

This is a great option for those who want to carry more items safely: the Pacsafe Citysafe backpack . This backpack has a high-quality anti theft design with cut-proof material (lightweight steel mesh), interlocking zippers, and RFID blocking pockets. It also has a wire to securely lock the backpack to fixed objects like tables or chairs. 

This anti theft backpack is lightweight but very roomy, and has lots of space to fit your travel items including laptop up to 16”, camera, passport, wallet, water bottle, jacket, notebook, smartphone, and more. 

The organization is neat with many compartments to have your belongings easy to access, including an RFID blocking front pocket, interlocking zipper main compartment, padded sleeve for laptop, interior RFID blocking pocket, 4 card slots and 2 expandable side pockets for water bottle or umbrella. 

This is a top-notch choice for a safe backpack, ideal for travel or using during the weekends. 

Summary review of Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack

Amazon rating : 4.5*

Price range : $140 to $170

Dimensions : 15.4 x 10.6 x 6.3 inches, weight 1.57 lbs.

Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 25 Liter Anti Theft Travel Backpack

Pacsafe’s Venturesafe backpack was highly recommended by our community members . Stephanie said: “This has been the best backpack I have ever had”. 

This backpack includes many anti theft safety features like interlocking zippers, cut-resistant fabric with lightweight steel mesh inside, detachable shoulder strap to secure to chair/pole, and RFID blocking pocket to prevent unauthorized credit card scans.

It has 2 lockable zipper compartments, 1 padded interior notebook sleeve that fits a 15” laptop, 1 mesh zip pocket and key clip, top opening for hydration pack and 2 side pockets for water bottles or umbrella.

This backpack is ultra comfortable, it has adjustable shoulder straps plus a hip strap in case you want to distribute the weight. The backpack’s material is soft, durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for international travel, hiking, going to work, etc.

It comes in different colors and sizes, from 15 liters to 32 liters.

Summary review of Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 25 Liter Anti Theft Travel Backpack

Amazon rating : 4.7*

Price range : $120 to $140

Dimensions : 19. 3 x 11 x 6 inches, weight 1 lb.

Travelon Anti Theft Classic Messenger Bag

This Travelon anti theft messenger bag was highly recommended by our community. It has a classic simple design and top notch security features.

Travelon has its own patented Anti theft security system, which is included in all of their bags. The bag includes a slash-resistant mesh inner lining, slash-resistant strap, locking compartments, RFID blocking pockets for credit cards and other sensitive items, and a tethered key clip with LED light.

The anti theft crossbody bag is made of durable, water and dirt resistant material. It is big enough to carry all your travel essentials, organized in many compartments and pockets, including 2 main compartments with zippered and slip pockets, plus zippered mesh water bottle pockets on each side.

Michelle puts it best: “I use a Travelon classic crossbody messenger bag. I love the locking zippers, RFID pocket and slash proof strap. Water bottle pockets are good for umbrellas and maps too. It’s totally changed the way I travel”.

Summary review of Travelon Anti Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Price range : $55 to $65

Dimensions : 11 x 10 x 4.5 inches, weight 0.65 lbs.

Travelon’s Anti Theft Classic Backpack

This anti theft classic backpack is another Travelon’s best seller, ideal if you like to travel with a backpack. The bag is widely used by our community members and it’s perfect for traveling securely but in style.

As in Travelon’s cross body messenger bag, this backpack also uses its patented Anti theft security system including a slash-resistant mesh inner lining, slash-resistant and padded straps, interior locking straps and hooks, RFID blocking pockets for credit cards and other sensitive items, and a tethered key clip with LED light.

This elegant slim backpack is great for carrying your travel essentials, with a padded sleeve for a laptop / tablet up to 13 inches, a cell phone sleeve, slip pocket and zippered pockets. It also has a front organizer with a slip pocket and pen loop, as well as side zippered pockets with extension mesh.

In the exterior, it has a large side slip pocket for items like water bottles, umbrellas, maps or sunglasses. Its material is very durable and water-resistant.

Summary review of Travelon’s Anti Theft Classic Backpack

Price range : $55 to $85

Dimensions : 12 x 16 x 6 inches, weight 0.1 lbs.

Lewis N. Clark Women’s Secura Anti-Theft Commuter Shoulder Bag

Lewis N. Clark Women’s Secura Anti-Theft Commuter Shoulder Bag is an excellent and affordable alternative to Travelon and Pacsafe. 

The bag comes equipped with many anti-theft security features, like a RFID protected wallet pocket, locking main compartment, adjustable shoulder strap and bag panels with stainless steel cable, and locking zippers. 

It also includes a locking hardware so you can attach your bag to a fixed object and prevent thieves from grabbing it and running with it. 

This anti theft travel bag is very versatile; you can wear it as a crossbody, shoulder bag, messenger or even computer bag, as it fits a laptop up to 16 inches size.

The bag has plenty of storage space and many interior compartments to keep your belongings organized and easy to access. It’s very durable and lightweight, and made of water-resistant material.

Summary review of Lewis N. Clark Women’s Secura Anti-Theft Commuter Shoulder Bag

Amazon rating : 4.2*

Price range : $60 to $65

Dimensions : 8 x 2 x 6 inches, weight 0.7 lbs.

Waterfly Anti Theft Sling Bag

The Waterfly Anti Theft Sling Bag is a small bag which keeps your travel must-haves safe. It has a great anti theft security system, including a lockable zipper main compartment and a hidden anti theft pocket on the back. 

The front pockets have a magnetic slap feature and a very unique element of this bag is the earphone hole in the side of the anti theft compartment, so you can enjoy music anytime.

The bag’s material is lightweight and water-resistant, and the interior contains multiple compartments and pockets to get easy access to your valuables. You can sling it to the front so you can keep an eye on it or hang it at the back if you are in a safe area.

Summary review of Waterfly anti theft sling bag

Price range : $25 to $30

Dimensions : 15.7 x 6.3 x 2.7 inches, weight 1.01 lbs.

Baggallini Securtex Anti Theft Memento Crossbody Bag

The Baggallini Anti Theft Memento bag is lightweight and water-resistant, perfect for adding an extra layer of security to your solo trip. It’s built of slash-resistant material, which keeps your belongings safe and ensures no one will cut it open to steal from you. 

It has many anti theft features including locking zippers, cut-resistant straps and built-in RFID-blocking technology, to keep your personal information safe while traveling. For organization, it has exterior and interior compartments and pockets.

This anti theft crossbody bag is the perfect combination of safe and fashionable, and it has a variety of colors to choose from. “I recommend the Baggallini crossbody. This brand has lots of compartments so it’s easy for me to stay organized. Also, it’s very lightweight”, agreed Debbie.

Summary review of Baggallini Securtex Anti Theft Memento Crossbody Bag

Amazon rating : 4.4*

Price range : $60 to $70

Dimensions : 9.75 x 7 x 1.5 inches, weight 0.55 lbs.

Inateck Carry On Travel Backpack

This Inateck backpack with anti theft design is perfect for airplane travel, day excursions where you need to carry change of clothes or even get some work done, an overnight trip or even as a weekender bag. It’s very spacious, it can easily fit your travel essentials and clothes for a solo road trip or weekend trip.

The backpack is made of very durable and water-resistant material, it also includes a rain cover in case of rainy days, and a lot of padding to make it comfortable to carry when full.

It has many safety features including a dual zipper design, the two lockheads can be locked in the middle to protect your valuables from theft, however the lock is not included.

Its neat structure contains 2 main pockets, 2 laptop compartments, 2 change pockets, 1 toiletry bag and other additional compartments. 

The backpack’s shoulder straps are thick, it has a chest strap and the overall design feels comfortable to your back and body and it is quite sleek in design, so it looks high quality and elegant.

Summary review of Inateck Carry On Travel Backpack

Dimensions : 21.65×13.4×7.87 inches, 3.59 lbs.

Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Tailored Convertible Crossbody Clutch

The Travelon Convertible Cross Body Clutch is the perfect option to keep your essentials safe while having dinner, partying or going on a date. 

It’s small, lightweight and stylish, and you can wear it 2 ways: as a wristlet or as a crossbody bag. This clutch bag has full anti theft features including locking compartments, slash-resistant material, and slash-resistant carry strap which secures to fixed objects.

The bag might be small but has lots of organization compartments, like a locking main compartment with RFID protected passport and card slots, a zip wall pocket, and tethered key clip with LED light.

We love this stylish bag to keep our personal items secure while going out during a trip. 

Summary review of Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Tailored Convertible Crossbody Clutch

Price range : $50 to $60

Dimensions : 2 x 9 x 6.25 inches, weight 0.56 lbs.

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14 Best Sling Bags for Women to Hold Sightseeing Essentials

Backpacks , Handbags , LUGGAGE

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Practical, versatile, and gaining lots of popularity from a style standpoint, too, sling bags are a travel gem! These women’s sling bag styles will keep your must-have essentials close at hand as you embark on your exciting trips. Take a look!

Best Sling Bag Women Love for Travel

Table of contents.

When you need to have your essentials close by during your travels but want to keep things light and have all the mobility you need, a sling crossbody bag is the answer. Readers love them for sightseeing and say their simplicity, amazing convenience, and versatile-wearing are ideal when on the go. 

Reaching for your phone, passport, wallet, and other must-haves has never been easier. Find the best sling bag for travel that readers absolutely adore!

Looking for the right personal item? Check out these tips and find out the best personal onboard item to take with you!

Best Sling Pack for Travel

Shop: Amazon

Travelon Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Purse

Travelon’s crossbody sling bag for ladies will not only keep things conveniently close by but will keep all your items safe and secure as can be with its anti-theft features! It has a simple, sleek look, and inside, there are plenty of RFID-protected card slots and passport holder, plus a key clip with an LED light. There is even room for a small water bottle. The bag is fully slash-proof, long-lasting, and comfy to wear — however you wear it! 

Readers absolutely adore this Travelon anti theft sling bag ! One says, “It was small enough that it didn’t get too heavy and was easy to carry nice and close. But also big enough to carry all of my essentials. I felt really secure with it! Plus it’s small enough to fit comfortably in another bag.”

We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women, and our readers have voted for their favorite styles. Find out the options they love the most!

Tumi Kileen Women’s Small Sling Bag

Aside from holding the day’s necessities, these Tumi sling packs will add a chic, effortless element to your outfit. Sleek and durable, this nylon and leather sling purse can stay compact or zip open to become a larger bag, giving you extra room! Readers adore Tumi bags for their quality and functional designs, and this sling pack comes with a handy Tumi Tracer for extra protection. 

One traveler says, “Love this bag! It’s the perfect size- I can carry everything I need! The bonus is that it’s gorgeous- perfectly smooth, sleek, and simple. Love it!”

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in this review !

Hebetag Leather Womens Shoulder Sling Bag

If you’re going for chic, Hebetg has you covered with its sleek crossbody sling bag purse . Made of genuine leather, it has ample room for your smaller travel items. This leather sling backpack is ligh tweight and high-quality and is ready for any and all adventures. 

Plus, they are so easy on the wallet, at under $50, not to mention the astounding amount of different colors and styles to choose from!! One TFG reader says, “I have the Hebetag bags. They’re leather but have sturdy straps and are not expensive.”

Looking for the best travel shoulder bags for women? Here’s are TFG readers’ all time favorite cross body purses for travel!

Shop: Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Women’s Leather Sling Bag

When all you need are the basics, the Lo & Sons leather sling bags for women are a gorgeous pick! Constructed with pretty, textured leather (with a faux leather option available!) that’s both scratch and weather-resistant, it’ll stay looking beautiful over time. The interior offers stellar organization, and you can wear it in four different ways and choose from a small and large size! 

Travelers rave about this womens leather sling bag ! A user shares, “This belt bag was perfect for my trip to Greece . It was always at my side and transitioned perfectly from running around in the airport to slinging it on my shoulder for dinner. It was small enough to not feel bulky on my waist but big enough to fit all the travel essentials (passport, keys, phone).”

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Away Packable Unisex Waterproof Sling Bag

Away’s Packable chest sling bag will keep things super light and add tons of convenience to your travel adventures. The water-resistant nylon is durable and easy to care for, and the roomy interior features a handy zip pocket. One of this sling back bags standout features is that it folds down into a teeny little pouch, so you can always have it on hand! 

The adjustable strap that you can wear in many different ways (sling, belt bag, crossbody) is yet another great bonus. Choose from six fun colors! 

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom

Fjallraven Kanken Womens Sling Bag  

The Fjallraven Kanken sling backpack for women will not only make the cutest addition to your travel look but will securely hold all you need for a day of travel. The belt strap is adjustable, and there’s also a little top handle for easy grab-and-go carrying. 

With its durable, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean fabric, this travel sling bag for ladies can handle anything from beach trips to theme park rides to day hikes! A reader says, “I use it as a purse/daypack. Love it. It also packs flat in a suitcase. It holds a lot, surprisingly.”

Discover the best ultralight backpacks and add one to your shopping list!

Shop:  MZ Wallace

MZ Wallace Crossbody Nylon Women Sling Bag

If you’re looking for something larger but still just as functional, look to this MZ Wallace Crossbody women sling purse . It’s a spacious option made of travel-friendly nylon with leather trim and has a stylish and contemporary design that’s perfect for city sightseeing. 

This sling purse for ladies is comfy to wear and won’t weigh you down, so there’s more room to pack your travel must-haves! It’d be perfect for storing all your in-flight essentials, too. 

A reader puts it simply, “I love MZ Wallace bags. They’re lightweight but durable, comfy but stylish.” 

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | REI | The North Face

North Face Borealis Ladies Cross Body Sling Bag

The Northface Borealis shoulder sling backpacks offer great organization and lasting comfort in one sporty yet cute package. It offers plenty of packing space, with a sleeve that fits a small tablet or large phone, a mesh zip pocket, a key clip, and a bungee system on the outside. Plus, it’ll keep your gear safe inside its rugged, water-repellent, ripstop fabric. 

With this slingback bag slung over your shoulder, you’ll be able to take on the most intense of outdoor excursions! One reader agrees, saying, “This small, lightweight crossbody pack worked great for hikes in the Adirondacks. Good stability for scrambling over rocks, crossing creeks, and hiking through woods. Just enough capacity to hold essentials and a small water bottle. Highly recommend!”

Shop: Amazon | Walmart

MOSISO Unisex Waterproof Travel Sling Bag

This Mosiso cross body sling is beyond versatile due to its convenient size, great organizational features, and sturdy construction. It’s equipped with a large zippered compartment for a tablet, multiple pockets, and two mesh bags on each side to hold water bottles or an umbrella. Users say these crossbody sling bags hold up well over time and are super comfortable to wear! 

It comes in a huge range of colors, too! A traveler reports, “I love my little sling travel bag . Took it to Mexico , and it was all I needed to carry my essentials. It was very comfortable and can fit more than you think. I loved the color and waterproof material. I highly recommend it for traveling anywhere.”

Find out what we think the best business backpack is for your next adventure!

Sherpani Esprit Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Backpack

Perfectly compact and ultra functional, the Sherpani anti-theft slingback bags have anti-theft technology and comfy straps for carrying around everywhere! The rugged, nylon construction will keep your must-haves safe and sound, plus the sleek-sporty look can go casual to semi-casual in a heartbeat. Wear it through the airport, sightseeing, or on the trails! 

These womens sling bags have a ton of organizational pockets, including a compartment for a water bottle. A reviewer highly recommends them, saying, “I’m a big fan of these. It’s my favorite bag!” 

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Shop: Lululemon

Lululemon All Night Festival Women’s Slingbag

Readers are constantly recommending Lululemon’s crossbody slings for travel, including the stylish All Night Festival cross body sling bag women’s style . It’s designed to give you tons of mobility while you’re on the go and the water-repellent fabric adds to its functionality. It makes the perfect day bag with a practical size and a sleek look! 

A reader with this over the shoulder sling bag says, “I love it! I feel that my stuff inside is secure, and no one can just slip into it.” 

Our readers love these crossbody phone purses for keeping their devices handy!

Shop: Amazon | Vera Bradley

Vera Bradley Lighten Up Reactive Women’s Sling Back Pack

Stay hands-free and mobile with the Lighten Up Reactive mini sling purses . The fabric is soft and comfy, lightweight, and durable, too. You’ll be able to keep organized with front zip pockets, pen slips, a phone slip, a key ring, and a large hidden zip pocket on the back to hold your valuables securely. 

These cute sling bags are also waterproof and come in a range of unique patterns. A reader says, “Makes a great day bag. It has a zipper pocket on the other side (against my back) where I stash my cash.”

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Osprey | REI

Osprey Daylite Womens Hiking Sling Bag

The Osprey Daylite is a must-have cross body sling bag women love for their active trips! It’ll keep you hands-free and your belongings safe so you can focus on your adventure! It’s water repellent, has multiple zip pockets for organization, and the adjustable strap makes for comfortable and secure wearing.   

A traveler sings the praises of this sling back bag , “This bag is extremely well-built. The materials and workmanship are top-notch. Use it for short hikes, or carry it on a vacation city trek, to the beach, or through the airport to help keep your hands free and your stuff together. It’ll comfortably carry your phone, wallet, keys, a map, and other small personal items.” 

We’ve compiled a list of the best osprey backpacks so you can pick your favorite one!

Shop: Amazon | REI  | Backcountry

KAVU Original Rope Crossbody Sling Bag

KAVU is a longtime reader favorite, and their Original Rope sling bag crossbody is a major winner for all kinds of travel. It’s lightweight yet strong, the rope straps are sturdy, soft, and long-lasting, and it has a super fun look overall! It has multiple pockets, and the interior is roomy enough for a water bottle, camera, and other small essentials. 

A reader loves her KAVU crossbody sling bag women’s style and says, “It’s incredible and so comfortable. It has a very long adjustable strap that makes it easy to adjust depending on what I’m carrying in it. I can wear mine all day. It’s so easy to slide to your front and access the pockets! It has to be one of my favorite bags.”

Best Sling Bags for Travel Comparison Chart

What do you think is the best travel sling bag for ladies ? Share and comment below!

For more women’s travel bags and backpacks, please read:

• Best Travel Day Bag: How to Choose the Right One
• Best Camera Bags for Women to Always be Ready to Take Epic Photos
• Best Messenger Bags for Women: Functional and Adorable Options
• Cute Backpacks for Travel You’ll Want to Wear Everywhere

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Thanks for the info on sling bags. After reviewing the various bags, I ordered the Travelon Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Purse through your link. It’ll go with me on an upcoming trip to Morocco and Egypt! Woo Hoo!

I have looking for a sling bag for an upcoming cruise. Thank you for the great options and reviews. It helped me make a decision by giving reviews and details. Great information!

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The Best Anti-Theft Bags To Carry While Traveling, According To Reviewers

Shopping Writer at HuffPost

In addition to your luggage and garment bags , you should consider investing in an anti-theft bag to tote on your next trip .

With the help of special security features such as lockable zippers, anti-slash fabrics, hidden pockets and RFID-blocking technology, these bags can help protect your most valuable belongings, such as your wallet , tablet and laptop .

And depending on their size, they can even be used as your personal item or carry-on bag . Below, you’ll find the eight best anti-theft bags, according to reviewers who use them while traveling.

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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Best Anti-Theft Purse For Travel: My Top 9 Travel Bag Picks

The best anti-theft purse is the one that foils pickpockets every time.

And if I’d had one of these clever items when I visited Beijing, I wouldn’t have looked like such an idiot… or worse, a criminal.

That’s exactly how I felt as I tried to convince embassy officials to  please  let me in to get a new passport – because mine had been stolen, along with my money.

But I didn’t have a pickpocket-proof purse, and I had committed the cardinal sin of travel: I had put my passport into an unsecured daypack.

Believe me, this is the kind of mistake you only make once, and I’d love to make sure you don’t have to make it at all!

So I now have not one, but  several  of the best anti-theft travel bags on the market. I never travel without one. And yes, my passport is now snugly secure.

Today I want to focus on day bags designed to  ward off pickpockets . I’ve been testing several of these during my travels and to paraphrase the well-known ad, I would ‘never leave home without one’.

There are two big names in anti-theft travel bags for women: PacSafe and Travelon. The last time I searched for “PacSafe” and “Travelon” on Amazon I found hundreds of results for these brands. While the two giants dominate the market, I’ve also looked at others and have added those further down this page.

These  travel accessories  range from tiny clutches to roomy purses and every color under the sun, so try to narrow down your choices before you shop by asking yourself:

• Are color and style important to you?
• Do you need something ultralight because you have back issues or is heavy fine?
• What do you plan to carry – just a wallet and phone or do you need space for your tablet, paperback book, glasses, keys, tissues, pens and a notebook for quick notes, a small camera… you get the picture!
• Will you be heading into the rainy season? The material could be an issue.
• Do you need oodles of pockets or do you like to have it all mixed up at the bottom of your purse?

Make sure you answer some of these questions before you shop!

Meantime, though, here’s a comparison chart for my top 9 bags. 

Best anti-theft crossbody bag: comparison table

What should i look for in the best anti-theft bags.

Each bag will be different, but each will have specific anti-theft properties that make them attractive.

The best crossbody bags should have as many of these characteristics as possible:

• Slash-resistant or slash-proof fabric (typically wire mesh)
• Strong fabric (canvas, nylon)
• Anti-slash straps (usually wire-reinforced)
• Locking zippers or closures OR hidden zippers
• RFID blocking pockets /compartments
• Multiple interior pockets with separate closures (like zippers)
• Non-flashy design or colors (to blend in rather than attract attention)
• Compact enough to be worn under a cardigan, jacket even a large pashmina, making it hard for thieves to spot.

Daypacks  are also good for use as travel purses, but under certain conditions:

• That they are designed specifically to thwart thieves
• That you wear them on your chest instead of your back (I do dislike that but that’s my personal bias) 
• That you avoid putting anything of value in exterior or unlocked pockets.

Some find that the best anti-theft backpack purse is the one that is versatile enough to act as both a backpack and a handbag in different situations.

Standard Pacsafe purse features

Every Pacsafe bag (or most) shares a few features that set the brand apart from others:

• Stainless steel wire mesh in fabric and wire-reinforced straps
• Locking clips and zippers, turn and lock security hooks.  
• RFID blocking pockets and compartments

My three most highly rated Pacsafe bags are described below.

• Cool detachable shoulder strap (adjusttable, of course) allows you to lock it to something solid while you go to the counter to pay your bill.
• There’s no way anyone is going to cut through the steel mesh surrounding this pack.
• Interlocking zippers make it difficult for thieves to reach into your backpack.
• Like all Pacsafe products, lots of pockets, inside and outside.
• Perfect as a daypack but equally useful as a weekender.
• Water-resistant, of course, you won’t need to fear the r

• Perfect if you want to go out in the evening without returning to your room to change bags. This one converts from a day bag to an evening purse.
• Metal-reinforced strap can be locked to anything - a radiator or table.
• Great if you’re out for the day - will fit your phone, camera, cash and cards, papers, keys and the like.
• Plenty of pockets, including an RFID blocking inside one.
• Plenty of pockets, including an RFID blocking inside on

• One of Pacsafe’s all-time classics. You’ll put in on and forget it’s even there, it’s THAT comfortable.
• Lightweight steel mesh is embedded in the fabric, which makes this purse virtually thief-proof.
• No one will unhook it without your knowing - you can lock the strap in place.
• Will fit your iPad Mini in its padded sleeve.

Standard Travelon purse features

Most Travelon bags are made to foil pickpockets and tend to share certain characteristics:

• Slash-resistant mesh body panels and shoulder straps
• RFID blocking pockets
• Locking zippers and compartments

These two are among the most highly rated Travelon handbags by women who travel with them.

• It’s comfortable enough to wear all day.
• This is the right purse if all you want to carry are your essentials - a large iPhone, identification, even a camera.
• Slip your identification into the main RFID compartment for a worry-free day.
• You can slip your phone into the outside drop pocket.
• A small LED light is included to help you find what you’re looking for ins

• This is definitely larger than the bag above, if you need to carry more with you.
• It includes inside space for a water bottle or umbrella.
• Plenty of space inside for everything else, including the little iconic LED light so you can find everything.
• The external zippered compartments are convenient if, like me, you’re always reaching for something in your purse.
• This purse has a more designed look than your average travel purse, if you’re looking for something a bit more stylish.
• Of course it has all the usual safety features, from locking zippers to RFID pock

Pacsafe vs Travelon: who wins?

Let’s talk Travelon vs PacSafe. Both PacSafe and Travelon offer a wide range of bag styles from compact backpacks, to wallets, to purses. Both incorporate great anti-theft features like slash-proof fabric/straps, RFID-blocking pockets and ways to lock zippers and closures. Both have highly-rated bags that people swear by.

So what are the biggest differences between PacSafe and Travelon? Price, color options, and overall style.

Pros and cons of Pacsafe

In general, PacSafe bags are more expensive than bags of similar quality (often by $20 or more, depending on the sales and bag in question), and they come with fewer color options. There are exceptions, of course, but PacSafe tends to put safety and practicality before fashion in their bag designs. 

In this case, safe really does equal boring, which can be great if your main priority is to transport your things securely and not be noticed. They are also sturdy and buying one means you may have to stick with it for a long time because it won’t wear out.

✔ Durable and practical ✔ Will not draw unnecessary attention ✔ Highly-rated and trusted by travelers

✖ More expensive than other bags of equal quality ✖ Fewer color choices/More “boring” designs

Pros and cons of Travelon

Travelon isn’t a designer purse but the brand does have a range of handbags with quaint stitching, stylish fasteners, and bolder color choices. 

If you’re budget-conscious, Travelon bags cost less overall. That said, the flashier colors and accessories might attract more attention, which could backfire if the point of buying an anti-theft bag was to deter thieves from snatching your things.

✔ Durable and practical ✔ Budget-conscious option ✔ Highly-rated and trusted by travelers ✔ More color choices/Fancier styles and designs

✖ Could attract unnecessary attention ✖ Sadly, the ‘plainer’ designs have the highest user ratings

It really is up to you. My own personal choice is Pacsafe, which I find the most reliable and neutral, a feature I like for traveling. They’re also well made (mine seem indestructible) and well thought through. If you’re in need of a small and a larger travel anti-theft purse, you could decide to buy one of each (I don’t need much of a nudge to buy an extra bag for travel!)

The next best anti-theft bags

If you aren’t a fan of PacSafe or Travelon, then these are the next best anti-theft bags for travel made by other reputable brands. Whether you’re looking for a stylish anti-theft purse, or a slash-proof purse, these will suit or travel bag needs.

• This is perfect for the woman who doesn’t want to carry a purse or a backpack, or who prefers to have various places to stash valuables
• Its ultra-slim design makes it perfect for wearing under your clothes.
• Mine is beige but it comes in a variety of colors.
• It also has multiple compartments and pockets so you’ll be able to keep your cash, cards, ID, and phone separate.
• The moisture-wicking material means it won’t stick to your skin if you sw

• You’ll be able to choose from a bunch of colors and designs.
• This bag isn’t big - it’s a perfect day bag and you’ll be able to put everything you need into it - your keys, cards, cash and phone - and your glasses, of course.
• You can wear it on your shoulder or as a cross-body.
• Of course the polyester material will keep everything dry in the rain.
• It has lots of little compartments, so you’ll have a place for everythin

• Ideal when you don’t need a large bag!
• This clutch has utterly stylish design, made of soft, beautiful leather in beautiful colors.
• Several compartments and RFID protected credit card slots will keep your valuables safe.

It’s true, we are spoilt for choice. Our tremendous thirst for travel, combined with our need to keep our valuables safe, means that traveling without some kind of anti-theft bag is simply not an option anymore. Whichever bag you choose, make sure it is comfortable on your body because no matter how secure it is, if you don’t enjoy wearing it, you won’t.

— Originally published on 26 September 2018

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The 5 Best Anti-theft Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested the best anti-theft backpacks out there to find the most secure options for every traveler.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked

Other Products You May Need

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

If a backpack is your preferred way to tote your belongings, you might want to invest in an anti-theft model. But what makes a backpack "anti-theft"? A few things. First, most are made with an extra-tough, anti-slash material that makes it extremely difficult for would-be thieves to cut their way inside your bag. Second, the zippers are usually hidden by flaps, so it often looks like there's no way into the bag. Finally, many anti-theft backpacks come with tools like locking cables, combination locks, and RFID-blocking technology (about which we provide more detail later).

We tested 14 anti-theft backpacks in our product testing lab and in the real world, putting their security features to the test by attempting to cut through exteriors and identify and break through locks and zippers. Our favorite bags were durable, comfortable to wear, and didn't draw attention to users.

Best Overall

Pacsafe anti-theft backpack.

The handles and straps are well padded, so it's comfortable to carry both as a backpack and a weekender bag.

It's a bit heavier than some of the other backpacks we tested.

With a 45-liter capacity, this backpack—the highest scorer on our tests—is big enough to replace your carry-on yet comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time. All the straps and handles are well cushioned for comfort on shoulders and hands, and it has hip and chest belts to distribute weight. Buyers will want to keep in mind that this is not so much a day-to-day pack as it is a piece for extended trips or even backpacking.

The bag has a lot of great anti-theft features, including four lockable zippers, a stainless steel locking cable that you can attach to any fixture (lock not included), and cut-resistant materials. Lock the zippers by connecting the zippers to each other, then hooking them onto a built-in clasp (there's also a flap that obscures the zippers and clasp). During the slash test, we found that the bag shows cuts, but it's not easy to get into with a knife. This combination of security features makes it nearly impossible to access the bag when worn, providing peace of mind—though, of course, that also means there isn't a great way for the wearer to quickly access items inside.

Our testers found plenty more to love. There are lots of pockets, including a large zip mesh pocket, a medium-sized zip mesh pocket, a medium-sized nylon pocket, a nylon pocket for pens/pencils, and a medium-sized nylon bag for the locking cable. A Velcro laptop sleeve fits a 13-inch MacBook with room to spare, and there's a side pocket for a water bottle. The bag also has external attachment points for a sleeping bag or jacket. A 270-degree clamshell opening makes it easy to pack—our testers estimate that efficient packers could fit somewhere between one to two weeks' worth of clothes inside.

It's a bit heavy, but that's to be expected for the size. And testers did note that the zipper lock has a learning curve, so buyers should make time to practice before using it on a trip.

The Details: 21.7 x 13.8 x 8.7 inches | 3 pounds, 13 ounces | 45 liters | Nylon and polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Budget

Ambor laptop backpack.

It's quite roomy and has plenty of pockets for organization.

The material is not as tough as that of other anti-theft backpacks.

This affordable backpack features a built-in three-digit combination zipper lock, and there's a hidden pocket on the back that can only be accessed when the bag isn't being worn. The exterior however is not slash-proof, which makes sense given the lower price when compared to other backpacks on this list. Our testers loved how spacious this bag is and noted how the number of pockets makes it easy to organize belongings. That includes a large laptop pocket, plus a smaller padded pocket for a tablet. Compression straps on the sides also help pack things down more tightly. And the pack comes with a built-in USB cord for a powerbank.

We appreciate the padded straps and back, which make it comfortable to carry, and love the sleeve on the back that travelers can slide over a suitcase handle. With laptop and tablet compartments, a built-in USB cord, and several pockets for organizing, this roomy bag is a great value purchase that can securely hold all your essentials.

The Details: 19.1 x 11.6 x 7.5 inches | 1 pound, 10 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Best for Outdoor Adventure

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

We found plenty of options for expanding and compressing the bag to our packing style.

The locking zippers may be too complicated for some travelers.

This huge pack almost has too many features, including locking zippers guaranteed to protect against theft while traveling. At 45 liters, the bag is designed for backpackers or long-term travelers and can carry everything you need from clothing to gear to laptops. It also features "pickpocket-proof" zippers on all compartments, so you can hide zippers and prevent theft. For extra durability, the pack is also weatherproof, made from nylon canvas derived from recycled materials. Our testers loved how easy this bag was to pack and how many pockets are included. With custom-fitted Peak Design packing cubes , this anti-theft backpack can easily be your new go-to carry-on or hiking pack.

The Details: 22 x 11 x 13 inches | 4 pounds, 8 ounces | 45 liters | Nylon and polyester | Waterproof

Best for Business Travel

Pacsafe metrosafe ls350 daypack.

Thoughtful organizational features like a hidden clip for wallet or keys make it stand out.

The straps could be a little easier to adjust.

Our testers loved this bag. It has it all: padded shoulder straps and back, a zipper lock to protect your belongings from casual pickpocketing, and enough space to fit your travel essentials. There's a small, lockable hook for you to attach the bag to any fixture, say a hotel bed or table leg, and it has a hidden clip for a wallet or keys. In the main compartment is a 15-inch laptop pocket; the smaller compartment has a large zip mesh pouch, padded pockets, and three nylon pockets of varying sizes. The back has soft foam padding.

When we ran a slash through the bottom, the outermost layer of fabric did tear, but we just met foam; even though the textile cuts easily, the mesh prevented us from cutting a hole wide enough for things to fall out. A few slight nitpicks: the water bottle pockets are very tight, making it difficult to get a 20-ounce bottle to fit, and the main compartment zipper occasionally caught on the inside of the bag. The straps could have been slightly easier to adjust as well. But good performance on our comfort, organization, and anti-theft property tests make this one highly recommended.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.6 x 5.1 inches | 1 pound, 7.4 ounces | 15 liters | Nylon and polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Connor Ralph

Best Lightweight

Kopack laptop backpack.

The interior organization features are outstanding, and the exterior held up particularly well during our slash test.

It's very hard to fit a water bottle in the side pouch, and there are no zipper locks.

This bag is tied for the lightest on our list, which is particularly impressive considering the amount of interior organization: three medium-sized pockets, three card pockets, and two pencil pockets in the front compartment; meanwhile, the main compartment features two passport-sized pockets and a laptop compartment that can fit a 13-inch MacBook. Our testers appreciated how the straps fit over the zipper leading into the laptop compartment so that it can't be opened up while you're wearing it. We also like the built-in USB cord for connection to a power bank and external charging.

The bag held up particularly well during our slash test: There were no marks after our initial swipes with a box cutter (though it can be cut with more effort). However, buyers should note that there are no zipper locks.

The Details: 17.7 x 11.8 x 4.3 inches | 1 pound, 8 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

We tested 14 of the top anti-theft backpacks on the market for comfort, theft protection, and features. First, we filled each backpack with items we might carry around with us for a day of travel, including a laptop, book, magazine, headphones, phone charger, and water bottle. We observed any special features like organization pockets, pouches, charging capability, etc. Then we strapped it on and carried it around. We took note of how comfortable the bag was, calling out any special comfort features like adjustable straps, compression/weight distribution straps, and padding. We thought carefully about how long we would be able to comfortably carry each bag.

Next we got into the anti-theft portion of the testing. If a bag claimed to have slash-proof material, we took a box cutter to it, giving a couple of quick slashes to see how it held up. If it didn't yield any damage, we tried to really cut through it and see just how durable the material is. Next we evaluated how well compartments and zippers were hidden. For any that claimed to have hidden features, were they actually hidden or easily visible? We also tested the locking zippers on applicable bags (both those that had inherently locking zippers and ones that required us to use separate locks) for ease of use and functionality. For those that required a separate lock, we used this one .

One common anti-theft feature we didn't test for was RFID-blocking. RFID, which stands for radio frequency identification, is a technology used in credit cards, driver's license, and passports to wirelessly transmit information (think tap-to-pay, ID scanning, etc.). Some security experts have expressed concern that thieves could potentially use devices to obtain this information from a few feet away. In reality, theft via this method is rare, and it would be difficult to pull off. Plus, much RFID technology is used to emit one-time wireless signals that become useless after a transaction. All of our research shows that RFID-blocking is not as important as marketing materials seem to claim.

Other Anti-theft Backpacks We Liked

Some of the bags we tested did not make our list of recommendations. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Oscaurt Anti-theft Travel Backpack : It looks nice, but the material was extremely easy to cut through, and the laptop slot felt a little insecure.

Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack : Overall, we thought this bag was just fine. No huge defects, but just not quite good enough to make the list.

Arden Cove Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody : While the crossbody option was nice, the straps were uncomfortable and the fabric tore easily—two turnoffs, especially considering the price.

Matein Anti Theft Hard Shell Laptop Backpack 15.6 Inch : Although durable, we found it uncomfortable, and, even worse, the combination lock did not work.

To keep your items safe and secure wherever you go, consider some of these other products that prioritize safety.

Sherpani Espirit AT: If you prefer a sling bag to a more traditional backpack, the Sherpani Espirit AT is a great anti-theft option. It features a slash-resistant bottom, zippers that clasp together, and can be worn on your front or back, depending on your comfort.

Melsbrinna Passport Holder : Any international traveler should invest in a high-quality passport holder to protect their most important document, and this budget item is stylish and durable. It comes in 43 different colors and patterns and, yes, it does include RFID-blocking technology.

Eufy SmartTrack Link : We highly recommend this luggage tracker even if you aren't checking a bag. It's small enough that you can fit it in the pocket of any backpack or purse and the keychain slot even allows you to attach it to other important items like your keys or camera to help you quickly locate lost or stolen items.

Tips for Buying Anti-theft Backpacks

Consider your use cases.

Buying an anti-theft backpack is much like buying any other backpack: Some are best as carry-on luggage, some are better for everyday use, some are better for hiking, etc. So you'll want to be sure to consider size (around 15 liters is a good capacity for everyday use, while closer to 45 liters is better for a backpack acting as a piece of luggage) and interior organization features (are you just tossing in a bunch of clothes, or are you carrying laptops and tablets and wallets?). Beyond that, you'll want to look out for the basic anti-theft properties: hidden and/or lockable zippers, slash-proof exterior, hidden compartments, and other elements that might deter a potential thief.

Think about the materials

Thick and durable materials like polyester are best for anti-theft backpacks as it guards against rips and slashes that may allow a thief to steal your items. In addition to the main compartment, it's important to evaluate the materials of all straps and zippers to be sure they can't be broken or quickly accessed. Anti-theft bags that utilize hidden zippers will also best protect any items in outside pockets, similar to how laptop backpacks protect your laptops and tablets.

Prioritize comfort

A backpack is something you wear, so be sure it's comfortable. Looks for options with padded straps and adjustability. For larger backpacks, chest and hip straps can help reduce strain on your back and shoulders. An anti-theft backpack can have all the security features in the world, but if it hurts to wear, you won't use it.

Think carefully about RFID-blocking

If a bag you like has RFID-blocking, great. But don't fret if it doesn't, and certainly don't skip a bag you like just because it is not RFID-blocking. As mentioned previously, theft through RFID-skimming is rare. While you could purchase a product with RFID-blocking tech for peace of mind, it's really not essential. Think more about your comfort and durable materials when it comes to choosing an anti-theft backpack.

There are a few factors that make a backpack "anti-theft," and all of them are primarily aimed at deterring, if not offering full protection against, thieves. First, most anti-theft backpacks appear to have no visible access points, as zippers and pouches are hidden by flaps. Many will also have zipper "locks," which are often clasps that the zippers attach to so that a would-be robber faces a delay in trying to open the bag. Second, anti-theft backpacks are usually made with slash-proof material so that a person cannot simply slash open the bag with a knife or box cutter. Many anti-theft backpacks also come with additional security features like combination locks, cables for tying the bag to fixtures, and hidden compartments. Finally, many anti-theft backpacks are made with RFID-blocking (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to guard against any possible data theft including debit card numbers and passport information.

For the most part, anti-theft backpacks are only a bit more expensive than regular backpacks. You're usually paying for slash-proof material and a bit of extra hardware. But if you are the type of person who prefers a backpack for your work bag, your carry-on, or your sightseeing tote, you should consider an anti-theft model. If you're going to have a bag on you that often, the peace of mind is worth it.

Because of their safety features, most anti-theft backpacks should only be spot cleaned. Many anti-theft backpacks include built-in USB cords and locks that you wont want to submerge in water. The best way to clean your backpack would be to follow all of the manufacturer's instructions, which usually includes using a warm, soapy cloth to dab at stains.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Chris Abell has been a travel writer and editor for several years. He and a team of travel editors planned this test; they researched to find what appeared to be the best anti-theft backpacks available and then designed a testing methodology. A team of editors then spent a full day in our onsite lab testing the 14 backpacks, with each one thoroughly vetted for comfort, organizational features, and anti-theft performance.

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Shop TODAY editors and travel experts swear by these anti-theft products while traveling

The heart-dropping, stomach-sinking moment in "Home Alone" when the McCallister family realizes Kevin was forgotten isn't one that many can relate to. However, while traveling , many of us can relate to the head-scratching moments when we ask ourselves, "Did I leave something behind?"

What's even worse than forgetting to pack certain valuables is having them stolen from right under your nose and having nothing to blame but your easy-to-access bag or luggage. The best anti-theft products employ various protective features and aim to resolve these problems while helping you keep better track of your belongings.

Shop TODAY spoke with Mitra Amirzadeh and Katie Jackson, two seasoned travelers, to get their insight on what anti-theft products they trust to keep their valuables safe (and what you should be looking out for when shopping).

What are anti-theft features? | What should shoppers keep in mind? | Editor-recommended anti-theft products | Expert-recommended anti-theft products | How we chose | Meet the experts

Shop Today Snapshot

Best anti-theft travel products.

What do anti-theft features look like?

Anti-theft features might not always be obvious (for example, a subtle combination lock on a suitcase). They're worth it, though. Here are a few examples of some anti-theft characteristics in backpacks, luggage and more:

• Zippers: Zippers on anti-theft bags might be hidden, such as a backpack with a zipper in the back rather than the front. There are also hard-to-find zippers that tuck into the bag itself, making them difficult to access.
• Pockets: Amirzadeh appreciates a backpack with a rear-loading pocket rather than a traditional front compartment, as it makes it harder to pickpocket.
• Bluetooth trackers: Both Jackson and Amirzadeh put their trust in Bluetooth trackers that they add to luggage, which they are able to access from their phones. The Apple AirTag was rated as one of the best travel accessories during Shop TODAY's Travel Awards in 2023, making it one that both Shop TODAY editors and travel experts trust.

What should consumers keep in mind when shopping for anti-theft products?

In order to stay one step ahead, Jackson assumes the position and mindset of a thief when shopping for these products.

She says, "What would you look for if you were going to steal a bag or its contents? Then, shop for a bag that doesn’t have those blind spots." Jackson continues, "If your bag is slightly inconvenient for you to open, that may be annoying, but in the long run it’s worth it if it prevents a thief from stealing your valuables."

This is one of the reasons why Jackson bought the Cotopaxi Allpa pack : because the zippers tuck into a loop.

Additionally, Amirzadeh has noticed an uptick in passengers carrying hip packs across the front of their bodies to clearly see and access their items. Plus, keeping your valuables in front of you helps reduce the likeliness that a thief will unzip your bag from behind.

"I think carrying your passport , your cellphone and your wallet in a hip bag that is towards the front of you, or a crossbody bag that you’re wearing across your chest, is a really good idea; you’re less likely to get your stuff stolen that way," she says.

Editor-loved anti-theft products

Ytonet laptop backpack .

Laptop Backpack

• Extremely roomy
• Opens from the top
• Many hidden pockets inside
• Zippers aren't hidden

According to Amanda Fama , a commerce editor at Shop TODAY, this one "extremely roomy" backpack. It has a unique design that opens from the top, and the handles above can be secured together. Plus, there are various pockets throughout the interior.

"I used this backpack often for traveling and commuting with my laptop, and I always felt confident that my items were secure," She says. "Plus, it's roomy enough to fit clothes and shoes for weekend trips."

INICAT Crossbody Leather Bag

INICAT Small Crossbody Sling Bag

• "Functional and secure"
• Won't give off tourist vibes
• Logo is visible

This crossbody bag features two zippered pouches in the front and one in the back, which is why associate editor Shannon Garlin trusted it with her go-to ' s when traveling abroad.

"This large (but not too large)  crossbody bag  has become the star of my latest trip abroad," she says. "Not only did I get tons of compliments from friends, but also it fit everything I needed for a day exploring a foreign city, all while feeling secure!"

Quince Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase

Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase

• Chic design
• Can scuff quickly

Usually we associate Quince with affordable luxury fabrics and basics, but did you know they make travel products as well? From packing cubes to duffel bags and more, the brand is proving to be more than a go-to for reasonably priced clothing items.

Associate editor Allie Wise owns this hard shell suitcase, that's available in four different carry-on sizes and five colors.

"I received a sample of this suitcase in tan and I have not traveled with any other suitcase since," she says. "I absolutely love how well it rolls through the airport- almost too good! It also has a TSA-approved lock to safely store all your valuables."

Samsonite Outline Pro Medium Spinner

This spinner won a Shop TODAY Travel Gear Award for best splurge suitcase.

• The lock is easy to set up
• Holds a lot, easy to clean
• None to note at this time

Well-loved by Shop TODAY editors during our Travel Awards in 2023, this medium-sized suitcase was the first time that associate editor Kamari Stewart had used one that included anti-theft features.

"This suitcase is my tried-and-true favorite," she says. "I bought it two years ago and I take it literally everywhere. Aside from the massive amount of stuff that fits in what they call a 'medium,' I love the TSA-safe lock it has."

This 360-degree roller has a three-digit lock that you can use to secure your items.

"It was super easy to set up and has been a breeze to use ever since," she says. "It definitely provides me with peace of mind on longer/farther trips where I’m always scared of it getting stolen."

Expert-recommended anti-theft products

Apple airtag.

Winner: Best tech for checked bags

• "Game-changer"
• Affordable, reasonably priced
• Audio alert is quiet

Both Jackson and Amirzadeh swear by Apple AirTags to help keep track of their items, whether they’re in the overhead bins above them or stowed away under the carriage.

“While they won’t deter theft, they provide some semblance of hope that if our bags do go missing, they’ll at least be trackable,” Jackson says.

They’re available individually or in four-packs, which is convenient if you have multiple bags or family members with things to keep track of.

“I like knowing that if I accidentally walk away from my backpack or luggage that my phone’s going to go off, because where do we go without our phone? Absolutely nowhere. I like that it tells me ‘Hey, you might have left this item behind,’” says Amirzadeh.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Super spacious
• Can be bulky

Jackson purchased this multi-tasking pack after nearly getting pickpocketed abroad and praises its zippers, a quality that is often overlooked in luggage.

“The zippers don’t lock, per se, but they tuck away, so you can’t open them unless you’re at the right angle and they take several seconds to undo,” she says.

This pack opens up like a suitcase, with zippered mesh compartments on each side that can fit a week or two weeks’ worth of clothing and items. Plus, it has loops on either side of the compartments to tuck your zipper into so they’re harder to access.

ThinkTank BackStory Backpack

BackStory™ 15

• Rear loading compartment
• Is bulky, but holds equipment

This is Amirzadeh’s choice when it comes to carting her camera equipment around. With a rear-loading compartment that includes 15 panels to store cameras and accessories, she’s able to travel from country to country without fear of her items getting stolen.

“All of my gear goes in the reverse panels and I fill the backpack from behind, so all the zippers are up against my back, instead of out there where you could be behind me in line and unzip it,” she says.

Shopper-favorite anti-theft products

Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker

Waterproof Nylon Anti-theft Rucksack

Anti Theft Backpack

How we chose.

As a team of editors who are always on the go, the Shop TODAY staff pitched protective products that they depend on while traveling. We also included the preferred travel bags and accessories from a flight attendant and a travel writer. Many of the items included have anti-theft features such as hidden zippers, rear-loading designs and more.

Meet the experts

• Mitra Amirzadeh has been a flight attendant for nine years, and a destination wedding photographer for five.
• Katie Jackson is a travel writer and expert, serving on our panel of experts for the Shop TODAY Travel Awards .

Sierra is an associate editor for Shop TODAY.

Top 10 anti-theft crossbody bags, backpacks and accessories that stop pickpockets

Here at TPG, we aren't fearmongers. We steadfastly believe that travel brings the world just a little bit closer together.

That being said, we do get a lot of questions about how to thwart pickpockets in popular vacation destinations around the world. No matter what big city you may visit — here in the U.S. or beyond — someone may want to part you from your wallet, cellphone, passport or other valuables. Don't make it easy!

With one of the busiest summer travel seasons upon us, be aware of your surroundings and select a few travel accessories that will give you an extra layer of protection — and peace of mind — as you travel the globe.

Here are several TPG-approved anti-theft crossbody bags, backpacks and accessories to slow down and stop thieves from taking your personal items.

Crossbody bags

Security experts say that crossbody handbags are a good bet since you can easily keep an eye on your belongings. With these bags, your items are safely secured to the front of you or your side via bag straps that go all the way around your body. The design is both practical and comfortable, stopping passersby from yanking your bag off your shoulder or out of your hand as you're out and about for hours on end.

To find the right crossbody bag for protecting your items, look for a bag that has a wire threaded through the straps (so they can't easily be cut) and a steel mesh liner between layers of fabric (so the bag is slash-proof). Pockets that block radio-frequency identification, which scammers can use to access your credit cards, passport and other forms of ID, are also a must. Locking zippers are essential, too, as they make it harder for someone to quickly retrieve items stored inside.

While several brands make anti-theft bags, popular manufacturers include Travelon and Pacsafe. Both of these companies prioritize quality, appearance and functionality when producing their bags.

This particular Travelon bag is a solid option for frequent travelers, as it's compact enough to fit the essentials without adding bulk. I've had it for about a year now and really like it for specific uses: transiting through an airport when I'm also wearing a backpack, visiting a museum where larger bags are not permitted, heading to dinner and going on a half-day tour that doesn't require lugging bigger items.

While this bag, which measures 8.5 inches by 7 inches by 2 inches, can fit the items I always have on me — two pairs of glasses, my iPhone, a Vera Bradley ID/card wallet, two passports, keys, a pen and a pill case — it won't accommodate much more. Still, it has all the important anti-theft features to look for, including slash-proof steel mesh sandwiched between the fabric layers, a locking main compartment zipper and a cut-proof, wire-reinforced strap that has a locking carabiner so you can thread your bag through a post, chair or table leg to prevent someone from snatching it while passing by.

On the outside, you'll find a front flap with a magnetic snap closure. I usually stash any sightseeing tickets or papers I need in there so they're easy to access. Behind the front flap sits a slip-in pocket that comfortably fits an iPhone. There's also a zippered back pocket that's ideal for storing a few dollars so you don't need to unlock and access your wallet inside when buying a drink or something small.

Inside the bag, you'll notice a main compartment with three RFID-blocking credit card slots and a passport pocket. Additionally, there are an internal zippered pocket and an attached key ring loop with an LED. The latter comes in handy for securing items like my pill case.

If appearance is important to you, odds are you'll appreciate that this bag is available in four colors. Choose from neutral hues like black, smoke (dark gray) and sable (tan), or go for a deep pop of color with the ocean (navy blue) option.

At 8 inches by 10.5 inches by 2 inches, this bag is a little roomier than its sister bag, the Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Quilted Slim Pouch . Like the Signature Quilted Slim Pouch, the Classic Small East/West Crossbody doesn't have any side pockets to store water bottles or umbrellas. However, its wider design makes it possible to store select miniature umbrellas inside.

This bag has all the same anti-theft features previously mentioned. There are locking zippered pockets on the front and back, plus a main compartment (also with a locking zipper) that has RFID-blocking credit card slots and a passport pocket. The interior also has a pocket for a phone and a tethered key ring with an LED.

Those who love bolder colors will like that this Travelon option comes in a few nontraditional hues, including spruce (deep green), purple and midnight (dark blue). Neutrals like black and nutmeg (brown) are available as well. If you prefer a textured fabric, opt for the quilted version in the wine rose, geo sunflower or painted floral pattern.

During Amazon's Prime Day sale, you can get this bag for abut $35 versus the usual $49 retail price.

If you're looking for a large bag with two zippered, mesh side pockets that can comfortably fit water bottles, umbrellas or sunglasses, the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger could be the right pick. It has all the same anti-theft features noted in the above bags but in a more spacious design.

Measuring 12.5 inches by 9 inches by 3.5 inches, this larger option from Travelon has a magnetic flap closure in the front that hides a locking zippered pocket. There's also a back pocket with a locking zipper closure that reveals four RFID-blocking credit card slots, a larger slot, a pen loop and a removable key clip with an LED when opened. Four wall pockets and an additional pen loop are tucked within the main compartment.

Color options range from solids like black, midnight blue and nutmeg to patterns like black with white stripes, black with white flowers and AV stripe (multicolor).

Pacsafe says it's the original anti-theft bag brand, and all its products — including the Metrosafe LS200 Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag — come to the table with all the features you seek. Security details include a cut-proof strap with a TurnNLock security hook so you can attach the bag to a chair or table for additional protection, a slash-resistant lightweight steel mesh layer, RFID-blocking pockets and locking zippers.

While the high price tag is a drawback, most reviewers love this bag, especially its locking zippers. Pacsafe's locking zippers are widely considered the safest in the business, as they don't unfasten as easily as those from Travelon (which act more like clips). If you're nimble with good dexterity, this shouldn't be a problem, though the extra effort required to open the zippers may make them difficult for those with arthritis or other hand-related health issues.

Featuring Econyl regenerated nylon, a product made from recycled materials like fishing nets and plastics found in the ocean, this bag is a great environmentally friendly option for those who need to store various items on the go.

Measuring 11.4 inches by 9.3 inches by 2.8 inches, the bag comes with a handle at the top for easy grabbing, as well as a wide shoulder strap, a zippered back pocket and two side pockets with snaps for smaller water bottles, umbrellas or sunglasses. Inside, you'll find an RFID-blocking zippered pocket and a padded sleeve for storing an 11-inch tablet.

Color options are limited, but both are ideal for coordinating with various outfits. You can choose between black and ocean blue.

Anti-theft backpacks have many of the same attributes that the best anti-theft crossbody bags have: cut-proof straps, slash-resistant fabric, RFID-blocking pockets and secure zippers. The main difference between the two is that the backpack design keeps your items safely stored on your back instead of in front of you or on your side.

There are many brands that offer travel backpacks , but Nomatic, Baggallini and Travelon stand out when it comes to anti-theft backpacks. These traveler-approved manufacturers take great strides to ensure the backpacks they offer are not only harder to steal but also stylish, well made and practical.

If you're more concerned with keeping your things safe during airport, train or bus transit, consider the water-resistant Nomatic Travel Pack. Available in 14- and 20-liter sizes that weigh 3.5 pounds and 4.2 pounds, respectively, this bag has backpack-style straps, handles similar to those on carry-on bags and luggage trolley sleeves.

Unlike most backpacks, the Nomatic Travel Pack opens like a traditional carry-on for easy packing. It also has a backpack-style zippered pocket on the front with plenty of interior pockets, including a lockable RFID-blocking security pocket, multiple mesh zipper pockets and a notebook pocket. The side pockets are large enough to fit bottles up to 3.5 inches in diameter.

Noteworthy details include the zipper expansion feature, which lets you add up to 10 liters of extra space so you can fit souvenirs and other items you pick up during your travels, and the hidden back pocket, which is capable of fitting a 16-inch laptop. There are cord pass-through holes in each compartment, too, so you can charge your devices or easily access your wired earbuds.

Whether you choose the smaller 14-liter bag (which is 17.5 inches by 11 inches by 5.5 inches, making it small enough to pass as a personal item on airplanes) or the larger 20-liter bag (which measures 18.5 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches), know that there is only one color available: black.

This backpack from Baggallini acts more like a purse than a traditional backpack you use for storing everything you own, as it only measures 13 inches by 10 inches by 3.5 inches. But if you don't mind the smaller capacity that may not fit your laptop, odds are you'll like this fashionable alternative to standard anti-theft backpacks.

Safety features include slash-resistant panels, cable-reinforced straps, sleek locking zippers on the front pockets and an RFID-blocking pocket for credit cards. The back of the bag features another zippered pocket that opens to reveal four more credit card slots and two interior zippered pockets. There are also two side pockets designed for water bottles, umbrellas and other items.

Made with a lightweight, water-resistant material, the Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack is one of the lightest options available, weighing only 1.1 pounds.

As for colors, you'll have several options that go beyond the standard shade of black commonly found on travel bags. In addition to black, you can purchase the bag in charcoal, pacific (deep blue), ruby red or portobello (beige/brown). Two dark prints — black cheetah and midnight blossom — are available as well.

Few backpacks come with a wide zippered pocket at the top like the one you'll have with this Travelon bag . From a bird's-eye perspective, it lets you easily see what's in the bag while it's standing upright.

The zippered front pocket is spacious, revealing a pocket for your phone, a tethered key ring clip with an LED, and RFID-blocking pockets for three credit cards and a passport or two. When unzipped, the front pouch gussets extend so you can pack thicker items like a pocket-size guidebook in there as well.

The main part of the bag has a section for an iPad or tablet, plus a second larger compartment and a small open pocket. One side has a pocket for a water bottle or umbrella, while the other has a zipper compartment that reveals a mesh pocket.

Like Travelon's crossbody bags, this backpack has adjustable straps that are cut-proof. Additionally, every compartment is lockable and all four sides feature slash-resistant mesh lining, adding extra layers of security while you're traveling with your bag.

Available colors are similar to what you'll find for other Travelon bags, too. You'll have three solid choices — black, midnight and nutmeg — in addition to prints like black with white flowers, black with white stripes and geo tile.

Related: 5 best backpacks for every travel style

Accessories

For some, a crossbody bag or backpack will suffice for travels near and far. However, traveling with smaller anti-theft accessories like money belts and neck wallets may be the way to go when you have a lot of items in tow. These accessories let you safely store credit cards, cash, passports and more beneath your clothes so pickpockets can't grab them on the fly.

You'll find various brands selling anti-theft accessories, but some of the most popular manufacturers include Alpha Keeper, Venture 4th and Zero Grid. Travelers favor these brands due to their safety features, high quality and comfortable, breathable designs.

This Alpha Keeper money belt works great for various vacations, especially ones that include visits to places that require checking larger bags before entering, such as museums. It's a hassle-free option for meals, too, as you can dine out without having to constantly keep an eye on a purse or wallet.

Despite the product description saying the money belt fits waists from 25 to 45 inches, it actually stretches to 55 inches, making it a terrific option for all kinds of travelers, including those who are plus size. If your shirt isn't long enough to fully cover the money belt, you can wear it outside your clothes or tucked into your pants.

The wallet, which is 10.7 inches by 5.3 inches, is made of ripstop nylon and a triple layer of fabric that blocks RFID. It has two zippered compartments on the front, the smaller of which is ideal for storing a few credit cards, cash or sightseeing tickets; behind the larger pocket, you can fit three passports, a smartphone, additional credit cards, cash and more. There is also a breathable mesh back pocket, though keep in mind that this pocket does not block RFID.

Designed for both men and women, Alpha Keeper's money belt is available in four neutral colors: black, brown, beige and gray.

If you don't like the idea of wearing a money belt under your clothes, a neck wallet is another option. Just load it with your valuables before placing it around your neck. To keep it from dangling and flopping as you move from point A to point B, tuck it inside your clothes.

Venture 4th's version of a neck wallet has several features that make it ideal for safely storing your travel documents, credit cards and cash. The pouch, which measures 8 inches by 5.5 inches, is made of lightweight ripstop nylon material, and the front has a clear window where you can place your ID, your travel insurance card or another small document. Two vertical zippered pockets on the front are good places to stash your earbuds, tickets or other small items.

At the top is a velcro flap that hides two larger compartments: one that's just the right size for your phone and another that can fit passports, money and other documents. The exterior back panel is made from breathable mesh fabric.

One downside to this neck wallet is that the strap is not cut-proof. However, it is made from a soft material with a toggle to adjust its length, giving you the flexibility to tweak where it sits so it's fully hidden under your clothes.

Available colors are all neutrals, though you'll find more options than other brands offer. Pick from black, pure black, beige, brown, gray, green, navy blue and silver.

Not all money belts are designed for frequent use. If you're more concerned with hiding important items like spare cash or an emergency credit card, then this option from Zero Grid may work well for you.

Measuring 38 inches by 1.5 inches, this travel security belt has a zippered compartment that's hidden inside the belt. To access its contents, you need to take it off to expose the pocket.

Because of the narrow design, you can't use this twist on a traditional money belt to store wider items like passports. However, it could work well for a photocopy of your passport; you'll just need to fold the photocopy first so it fits. The same is true for any cash you wish to hide within it.

This belt is approved by the Transportation Security Administration, meaning you can wear it while transiting through airports. Some reviewers were particularly impressed with the fact that it didn't set off the alarm when they were going through airport scanners.

Note that this belt only comes in one color: black. Perhaps the lack of different hues is a good thing, as the standard black color prevents the belt from sticking out while it's being worn.

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6 Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags (with Travelon & Pacsafe)

When you’re traveling, one of the most important things is keeping your belongings safe from pickpockets and other types of theft. Losing your passport or money while traveling overseas is a fear we all have. But the threat of theft from pickpockets and drive-by snatchings is high, so you must take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. An anti-theft bag can help ward off would-be slash and grab thieves.

Having traveled to over 70 countries, many of which have a not so great track record for travel scams and theft, I’ve tried out many anti-theft bags and I’ve narrowed the choices down to just two brands: Travelon and Pacsafe . These top two brands make some of the very best anti-theft backpacks and anti-theft purses you’ll find anywhere.

I’ve listed these and six bags (backpacks and purses) below for you to see and read more about. We’ve got full reviews of each bag, plus links to additional reviews on Amazon, and quick links you can use to purchase the bag you think is right for you.

We’re talking about travel handbags today, but we’ve also covered a few other travel issues you might be trying to solve, like how to find the best travel pants (which I now wear practically every day!) and our top carry on luggage choices . Also check out our guide on finding the best travel backpack or purse .

⇒ See all of our travel gear reviews .

Table of Contents

Quick Pick List – Best Anti Theft Bags

In case you don’t have time to read of the reviews and debate over which anti theft bag is the perfect one for you, I’ve put together a chart below to my top picks for best anti-theft bags to help you make a quick choice.

Rest assured, we haven’t included any bag that doesn’t meet our stringent quality standards, so no matter which bag you pick, it’s already been vetted and approved by us.

*My Top Picks

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket

• RFID blocking
• Slash-proof body and strap
• Front slash-resistant pocket
• Locking zippers

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS200 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag

• Lots of pockets
• Lockable zippers
• Slash-proof
• Can be worn 2 ways
• Fits a 10″ tablet

What is an Anti-Theft Bag?

If this is your first time hearing about an anti-theft bag, you might be wondering what it is exactly. These bags are designed with special features that make them more difficult to gain access to and harder to steal. They have technology that other bags don’t have.

While we never advocate carrying around valuables or irreplaceable items while traveling, we know it’s impossible to go somewhere without a passport, credit cards, ID, and at least some cash. All of those things are vulnerable to theft. That is where an anti-theft bag comes in. These bags protect you from a lot of typical scams performed by thieves in major touristy areas.

Typical Theft Scams

• Cutting through the strap of a shoulder purse to snatch it
• Snatching a shoulder bag from a motorcycle or bike
• Scanning ID or credit cards inside of a purse that is unprotected
• Slashing through the material of the bag to dump the contents out the bottom
• Pick-pocketing a bag that has been left unzipped or is easy to unzip without detection

A typical purse or backpack does not provide any protection from these attempts to steal your belongings. But an anti-theft bag does.

What Are the Special Features of an Anti-Theft Bag?

Most anti-theft handbags include a long list of features that will protect you against covert theft attempts, like slashing the bag or cutting the strap.  Make sure the following features are present in any anti-theft bag you intend to purchase.

» Slash-resistant mesh body panel

To protect against slash-n-grab thieves who speed by in crowds and on motorbikes, the panels of the bag should have a stainless-steel or chain-link mesh that fits between the outer layer and the fabric lining on all sides of the bag. This makes it impossible to cut through quickly.

» RFID blocking

You may not even have thought that thieves have the technology to just pass by you on the street with an RFID reader to scan the cards and passport in your bag, but they do. Almost all of the cards you carry contain RFID chips with personal information.

Make sure you purchase a bag that has RFID blocking technology. There should be protected slots where you can put your cards to keep them safe.

» Slash-resistant shoulder strap

One of the easiest ways for a thief to steal your bag is to quickly cut the strap when you’re not paying attention and swipe the bag away from you. To protect against these thieves, your anti-theft bag should have stainless steel cables or chain that run within the straps to make them impossible to cut through easily.

» Locking straps

The #1 rules for ladies in a restaurant is to never place your bag over the back of the chair, because it’s just too easy for a thief to grab it away before you know it. One of the top features of an anti-theft bag is locking straps that allow you to attach your bag to a chair or stable object in a way that prevents it from being taken.

» Locking compartments and zippers

Thieves are trained at being stealthy. They can unzip your purse or backpack without you even knowing it, to extract everything without your knowledge. A good anti-theft bag has locking compartments to protect you against pickpockets.

Top Anti-Theft Bag Brands

As I mentioned already, there are two main brands that make some of the best anti-theft bags on the market today. They are Travelon and Pacsafe. I personally have carried the Classic Light Travelon anti-theft bag for many years and I love it so much I’ll probably cry if it ever breaks.

Why are these two brands the best? It’s because they are committed to providing the best technology to keep your belongings safe.

» Pacsafe Bags

Pacsafe started making their bags in 1998. Being travelers themselves, they set out to make a better bag that would make traveling a bit easier – so you didn’t have to worry so much about losing important items, being robbed of all your cash, or having to protect your luggage with utmost vigilance at all times.

Their bags have really great security features like Turn & Lock security hooks, Pop and Lock security clips, and locking cables. With this technology, you can lock your bag to something like an airport chair and know it’ll still be there when you wake up.

» Travelon Bags

Travelon is leading brand in anti-theft luggage, including Anti-theft travel purse, crossbody bags and backpacks. They’ve been making bags for over 30 years, and their entire product collection contains over 400 items. You can trust that they are at the forefront of anti-theft technology.

Their products are really well designed and manufactured. You know you’re getting quality with Travelon and they’ve seemingly thought of everything.

Anti-Theft Travel Bag Reviews

★ our top pick:  travelon anti-theft cross-body bucket bag.

There are a lot of different Travelon anti theft bags to choose from, but the Travelon Crossbody Bag is one of the best. It’s a rather large bag, so it fits the most situations for the majority of people.

The size of this bag is 10″ x 14″ x 4″.  It’s one of the largest crossbody bags you can find, particularly keeping in mind that you don’t want to be carrying around a lot of weight all day. If you pack this bag full, it will be quite heavy. They also have a very similar crossbody bag that you might be interested in as well that is slightly taller and has more exterior pockets.

Organizational Features:

• The large interior pocket has plenty of room for your larger items. There’s also a smaller zippered pocket inside for change, cash or smaller items. Along the side is a row of card slots that are RFID blocking.
• There’s a second zippered pocket on the outside that has larger, padded slots for things like your phone and passport.
• On either side of the bag, there are water-bottle holders, which also work nicely as umbrella holders.

Anti-Theft Features:

• Lockable main compartment with RFID-blocking card and passport slots
• Slash-resistant body
• Adjustable, slash-resistant shoulder strap that can be locked to a stationary object
• Zippered rear pocket with removable LED light

Pros:   Large and versatile. Plenty of space for everything to be neatly packed away. Can be carried crossbody for added protection. Cons:  The lining isn’t as high quality as expected and can tear away from the bag if carrying heavy items often.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Small Crossbody Bag

If you’re looking for a small anti-theft crossbody bag to carry only the essentials and keep it streamlined, the Travelon Classic Small Crossbody bag will suit you well. This bag has many of the same features as the bucket bag (featured above), but without the extra space.

The size is  10.5” x 8.5” x 2.5” with an adjustable 13”- 25” strap.  For me, this is the perfect size for travel. Not too big, not too small. They also have a very similar crossbody bag that you might be interested in as well that is even smaller (8.8″ x 6″ x 1.5″) and is perfect for someone who carries just the basics and nothing bulky.

• The main interior pocket has room for your bigger items, like sunglasses and wallet. Along the side is a row of non-zippered card slots that are RFID blocking and a larger pocket for your cell phone. The main compartment has plenty of room for a Kindle or iPad mini.
• There’s a zippered pocket on the inside to hold loose items, like cash and coins. There’s a small LED light in the pocket.
• On either side of the bag, there are zippered pockets.
• Size: 10.5″ x 8.5″ x 2.5″

Pros:   The material is easy to clean and is water-resistant. It’s perfect size for those who don’t like to carry a lot of stuff, which leads to it not being overly heavy. Cons:  No water bottle pocket. The credit card slots are not tight, so cards don’t feel securely fastened in.

I like the Pacsafe messenger bag because it looks more like a generic travel bag, rather than a purse. I travel often with Nick, who doesn’t really want to carry around a purse, so I end up carrying the stuff all the time. This bag is more masculine and doesn’t look like a purse, so we can share the responsibility of carrying it. You can buy this bag in 5 different colors.

The size is 11.4 x 9.3 x 2.8 in. I’ve found that it can be very slim if you don’t pack it full of bulky items, but it has plenty of space to expand in case you do have a lot of things to pack in it. All in, this bag can hold 7 liters. If you’re looking for a slightly smaller version, check out the  Metrosafe LS140 , which holds 5 liters. It’s also a popular choice from Pacsafe.

• This bag is practically made of pockets. There are 3 interior slip pockets, 2 interior zippered pockets and 4 exterior pockets.
• It has an internal protective and padded sleeve that can hold a full-sized iPad tablet or small laptop computer.
• For added security, there is a velcro flap that covers the front panel, behind which you’ll find a zippered compartment for your cards, cell phone and keys.
• The shoulder strap is expandable from 13.4 to 29.5 inches.
• Two side water bottle or umbrella holders
• RFID-safe blocking material built into a pocket in the main compartment
• Turn & Lock Security Hook attaches the bag to a fixture
• Lightweight, hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless steel wire mesh embedded into fabric
• Lockabout Security Clip
• Smart Zipper Security

Pros:   Love the turn & lock security hook to attach the bag to the chair in a restaurant for added security. Well made, high-quality fabric. Cons: Can be tedious to get into the front zippered compartment with the overlaying flap. The water bottle holders aren’t large enough for 20 oz bottle.

Pacsafe Cruise 8l Anti Theft All Day Crossbody

Unlike the larger Pacsafe LS200, this bag looks more like a travel purse. It’s also smaller than the LS200, so is suited more for people who don’t wish to pack a lot of stuff inside.

The main compartment provides plenty of space for smaller items like sunglasses and wallet, with lots of organizational pockets in the interior. It has a lockable zippered main compartment with 1 zippered RFID blocking pocket on one side and 1 regular zippered pocket, plus a phone pocket, card slots and key clip. There are also two side slip pockets for a small water bottle or sunglasses. I don’t find that a water bottle actually fits well there, though.

The thing I like most about this bag is how sleek and simple it is. The pockets are all very discreet and the zipper is hidden inside the seam so it’s kept safe from would-be thieves.

The size of the bag is 8. 7″H x 11. 8″W x 4″D with an adjustable shoulder strap. It weighs just 0.93 pounds thanks to the lightweight recycled Polyester material it’s made with.

• This bag has a zippered main compartment with an RFID zippered pocket.
• A zippered front pocket provides space to slip a phone or passport.
• Smart zippers fasteners that can’t easily be accessed by thieves
• Cut-proof material (made with a lightweight steel mesh) 
• Adjustable wire-reinforced strap
• RFID-safe blocking material that keeps your cards safe.

Pros: The part about this bag is that it is slim and small. If you’re a light packer but want to have some space in a lightweight bag to carry important items, this bag is perfect. Water-repellent. Cons:   Not a large bag, so you might find that some items you need just won’t fit. Not a lot of interior organization.

Best Anti-Theft Backpacks

When looking for the right theft-proof backpack, there are a few things to consider. Generally you won’t be purchasing an anti-theft backpack to use in place of luggage on a trip. So you don’t need it to be exceptionally large. Instead, you’re looking for an alternative to a purse or cross-body bag, in which to carry your important items while traveling, like electronics, jacket, umbrella, water bottle.

The two backpacks on our list are just the right size for carrying around as a day bag, which is around a 15L – 28L. If you’re a light packer, you could use either of these backpacks as a weekend bag with no problems.

Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack

It’s called the Classic for a reason. This Travelon anti-theft backpack has all the features you need in a backpack, plus the uncomplicated and reliable anti-theft features.

The size of the bag is  16 x 12 x 6 inches, which gives plenty of space for everything you’d need on a day trip. One of the things I like the most about this backpack is the large main compartment. That makes it versatile for anything from packing a picnic for the beach or packing for a 3-4 day trip.

• The main compartment is large enough to fit a fully packed medium packing cube , plus a toiletry bag , a lightweight rain jacket and a few more odds and ends.
• Also inside the main pocket is a sleeve where you can fit a small (13″ or smaller) travel laptop , or an iPad , and there’s a zippered pocket in the back for storing paperwork or documents.
• In the front pocket, there’s room for a book or Kindle , plus all of your smaller items (cell phone, passport, credit cards, sunglasses, etc.
• The bag also has a side pouch where you can store a water bottle, thermos or umbrella.

Pros:   Perfect for carrying whatever you need – from day trip to a full weekend away. Lots of great organizational features. Cons:  This bag is for light packers. If you have a lot of items to pack, you may find it too small. Also better suited for a smaller framed person, as the straps are not incredibly long.

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 Anti-Theft 15L Backpack

For a slim and lightweight backpack with fantastic security features, you can’t find one better than the Pacsafe LS350. While it’s quite a small backpack – the size is 16.5 x 11.6 x 5.1 inches – I’ve found that it holds everything I could need for a day out as a tourist.

Nick and I often only take one bag and we can put 2 jackets, a water bottle, 2 umbrellas, my small travel purse, any documents we need and sunglasses inside and still have plenty of room for thing we pick up throughout the day.  All in, this bag can hold 15 liters.

• The roomy main compartment offers enough space to put a medium-size packing cube, or a couple days’ clothing and a rain jacket.
• The backpack has an internal protective sleeve for up to a 13-inch laptop or tablet.
• There’s a front zippered pocket with organization sleeves in which to tuck away all of your loose items. There’s also an extra zippered pocket in the front pocket flap.
• Two side water bottle or umbrella holders.
• Adjustable wire-reinforced Carrysafe Slashguard Strap
• Turn & Lock Security Hook attaches strap to secure fixture
• RFID-safe Blocking Material built into a pocket in the main compartment

Pros:   Comfortable and adjustable shoulder straps Cons: The back is not ventilated and there is no sternum strap. Not as big as the Travelon backpack. Don’t expect to fit a ton in there!

With these 6 anti-theft bags to choose from, your travels will never be safer. Take it from us – we’ve been traveling for over 20 years – it’s important to take extra care of your belongings while on the road.

Nothing will ruin your travels faster than falling victim to a slash and grab thief. Protect yourself by purchasing one of the best anti-theft handbags on the market.

Like this post? Why not save it to your Pinterest board! ↓ ↓

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

2 thoughts on “ 6 Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags (with Travelon & Pacsafe) ”

If you have a lot of items to pack, you may find it too small. it’s important to take extra care of your belongings while on the road. Generally, you won’t be purchasing an anti-theft backpack to use in place of luggage on a trip.

Definitely these are purses, not travel luggage. It’s a great way to keep your personal items safe while traveling.

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15 best anti-theft bags for travel in 2024.

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 .

Travellerspoint

Quick roundup of our top picks

What to look for in a great anti-theft travel bag

The best anti-theft bags for travel would have impeccable security features in their designs. Here are some things to look for in specific:

1. RFID protection

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.

3. Slash-proof

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.

4. YKK zippers

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.

5. Water-resistant

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.

6. Secret pockets

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.

7. Style and comfort

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!

15 Best anti-theft bags for traveling

1. loctote flak sack ii - overall best anti-theft travel bag.

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:

• Slash-proof fabric
• Patented double steel reinforced locking strap & combination lock
• RFID blocking pocket

Read more in our full Loctote Review .

2. Loctote Cinch Pack - Best anti-theft daypack

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.

• Industrial water resistant exterior
• UHMWPE locking straps
• Hidden easy-access exterior pocket

3.   Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Backpack - Best simple yet chic anti-theft backpack

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!

• Cute and simple style
• RFID-blocking pocket
• Cut-resistant materials
• 16-inch laptop sleeve PLUS phone pocket

Read our full review of the Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack

4. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L - Best maximum sized carry-on 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 .

• Large 40L carry-on size
• Comfortable carry with multiple straps and padding
• Durable, waterproof fabric and hardware

Check out our full Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack review here.

5. Skyborne Smart-Pack Plus - Most sleek anti-theft backpack

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!

• Large 30L capacity
• Waterproof ballistic nylon exterior
• Ergonomic straps and comfort
• Hidden pocket for passport

Check out our full Skyborne Smart-Pack Plus here .

6. Alpaka Elements Backpack Pro - Best durable anti-theft backpack

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.

• Lockable zippers and a hidden pocket
• Comfortable to wear
• Honeycomb Ripstop Nylon lining
• Smart internal organization

7. MINICAT Small Travel Crossbody Purse - Best anti-theft travel purse

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.

• Affordable and stylish travel purse
• Multiple compartments and dedicated slots
• RFID blocking protection

8. XD Design Bobby Urban Cut Proof Bumbag - Best anti-theft bumbag

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.

• Cut proof material
• 3 points safe buckle
• RFID blocking pocket 

9. Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack - Most stylish anti-theft backpack

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.

• Organization panel, slip pocket and zippered pocket with RFID blocking
• 5-Point Anti-Theft security system
• Key clip with LED light

10. Baggallini Backpack Purse - Best convertible anti-theft bag

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.

• Locking zippers
• RFID protection
• Convertible backpack and satchel

11. Inateck 40L Carry-on Travel Backpack - Best anti-theft laptop bag

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 .

• Large 40 L capacity
• Various organizational compartments and hidden pockets
• Secure dual zipper and double locks

12. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 - Great large anti-theft backpack

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?

• Lockable zippers and cut proof material
• Super strong anchor strap

13. Oscaurt Travel Backpack

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.

• Hidden main zipper and secret pockets
• Built-in charging cable and USB port
• Very comfortable to wear

14. MarsBro Laptop Backpack

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.

• Ergonomic design
• External USB with cable
• Multiple compartments and pockets

15. XD Design Bobby Backpack Trolley

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. 

• Convertible trolley and backpack
• TSA lock and RFID blocking
• RPET recyclable materials

Anti-theft bag FAQ

Why do you need an anti-theft bag.

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.

What is the best anti-theft bag for travel?

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.

What is the best anti-theft travel purse?

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!

What is an anti-theft pocket?

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.

Which anti-theft bag are you getting?

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!

Interested in more of our gear guides? Check out ...

• Best luxury carry-on brands
• Best eco-friendly sustainable backpacks
• Solgaard backpacks review

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Best 19 Anti Theft Bag for Travel for 2024

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. 

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.  Support my blog here . 

Best Anti Theft Bag for Travel for 202 3

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

Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling

PacSafe Go 15L Anti-Theft

Best anti theft cross body bags | best anti theft purses, arden cove cross body bag.

• PacSafe Metrosafe LS250 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Tour Bag

Pacsafe citysafe cx anti-theft square crossbody, travelon anti-theft signature 3 compartment crossbody, best anti theft backpacks, arden cove convertible backpack and crossbody .

• PacSafe Go 15L Anti-Theft Backpack
• PacSafe Camsafe X25 Anti-Theft Camera Backpack
• Travelon Anti-Theft Courier Slim Backpack

Travelon Signature Anti-Theft Slim Backpack

Best anti theft slings, pacsafe vibe 325 anti-theft sling pack, travelon anti-theft active waist pack, pacsafe go anti-theft sling pack, monos metro sling, best anti theft handbag totes, pacsafe citysafe cx anti-theft satchel handbag.

• Anti-Theft Addison Tote

Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Tote Bag

Unbox therapy x pacsafe anti-theft briefcase.

• Peak Design Everyday Tote

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.

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

Shop Pack Safe Metrosafe

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.

• Security Clips
• Slash resistant materials
• RFID Blocking Materials

Shop Travelon Hertiage Tour Bag

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:

• Anti slash material
• Roobar Locking Style System

Shop Anti-Theft Square 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
• 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. 

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.

• 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
• Slashguard Materials
• TurnNLock Security Hooks

Shop Pacsafe Go 15L Anti-Theft Backpack

Bagsmart Camera 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. 

• Pocket for up to a 14” laptop
• Slash Resistant
• Locking Clasps

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?

• 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.

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:

• PopNLock Security Clips
• Roobar Locking System

Shop PacSafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling 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:

Shop Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist 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.

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.

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.

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:

• TurnNLock Clips

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. 

• Locking clasps

Shop Travelon Anti-Theft Addison Tote

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. 

• TurnNLock Security Clips

Shop Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Tote Bag

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.

• 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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Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags

This post may contain affiliate links.

When choosing a bag (a handbag, travel purse, daypack, or backpack) for travel or city use most people will give some thought to security. It makes sense to buy a bag that makes a bag snatcher’s or pickpocket’s life as hard as possible. We’ve taken a look at the best anti theft travel bags for travellers, the ones designed to keep your passport, cash and other travel essentials attached to you. These anti theft bags work just as well for daily use, anywhere in the world.

This post has a few sections, you can use the following links to jump to the part of the post you need.

• What features should anti-theft travel bags have? • A selection of trusted anti-theft bags available in the US, Australia, UK and worldwide. • Larger bags, backpack-style, that are anti-theft for travel. • My personal, small, crossbody bag, trial.

Update: The world has supply problems right now. Some of our recommended “best” anti-theft bags and purses are unavailable. We are looking for alternate suppliers. This Travelon bag does seem to be in stock, and it’s a best-seller, but supply is limited and you probably need to buy before they’re all gone. (it may, become unavailable, please check.) Likewise, this Bagallini bag is available at time of publication. If you’re in the UK, this unisex cross-body anti-theft sling or sash bag is hugely popular and available . It’s ideal for men to use while travelling. In Australia you can buy Travelon anti-theft bags here, in the US look here . Most links on this page will work for Europe, the Americas and Asia. Now we’ll run you through features, plus more models with photos.

In my personal experience as a global traveller of many years, a small cross-body handbag or travel purse is extremely useful. You don’t always want to carry your day-pack, backpack or suitcase if you’re just going out for the evening, for instance. For times like this, I generally use a small cross-body bag, there are several designs below suitable for evening use.

I have a couple of cross-body fabric bags that I pack for travel, both have internal pockets and I can easily add extra security with a safety-pin or two. If you want to buy a travel bag designed to keep the thieves at bay and look a bit dressy or formal, somebody has thought of that!

Here are the best and most popular anti-theft bags for travel and for travellers. As an extra security measure, some also have RFID blocking capacity. The new anti-theft backpacks with built in charging ports are another travel must-have, see them at the end of the post along with a few extra anti-theft devices you may like. All are suitable for use as travel bags and have similar anti-theft features while having slightly different uses.

These bags are mostly aimed at women, but some would work just as well for men, My husband uses a small cross-body bag on airport days, his is a small Kipling bag similar to this one . Although not designed as anti-theft travel bags, the Kipling is rugged and sturdy and is ideal for men or women . We think they’re a great, long-lasting, good-looking, option and of course, can be worn crossbody. My husband has used his on travel days for almost 20 years.

Anti-Theft Bags

For uk, europe, and usa.

If you don’t have time to read this full post, our top picks are here. One is an anti theft bag for travel, work or city. See it here. The other is an anti theft backpack ideal for city life or travel days. See it here. Find full descriptions and specifications further down the page.

For Australia

If you are in Australia, the Travelon anti-theft bag is here. and the city anti-theft laptop bag is here.

Tips For Buying and Using an Anti-Theft Bag or Purse

Before we get into the best anti-theft bags here are some extra tips for travel bag security:

• Keep your bag across your body, not on 1 shoulder.
• Wear the bag on your front, not on your hip or behind.
• Keep a hand on it on busy trains, buses or in markets.
• Don’t keep everything in one bag, spread valuables around various hiding places.
• Avoid motorised bag snatchers by keeping yourself and the bag away from the road.

What Features Should an Anti-Theft Bag Have?

In an anti-theft travel purse or bag look out for features such as:

• anti slash fabric
• locking pockets and locking zippers
• RFID blocking
• Steel-enforced shoulder straps
• locking hardware for securing to immovable objects
• hidden or secret pockets

The Travelon bags generally have all of these anti-theft features.

Cross Body Anti-Theft Purses and Bags

We’ve shown most of the bags below in black but they do come in multiple  colours from blue to red to gold, click-through on each item to check the range. The Baggalini bags, below, have a particularly good colour range including cool stripes but they don’t have the tough anti slash, anti cut technology of the Travelon bags.

Lewis N Clarke Secura Anti Theft Bag

Take a look here! Lewis N Clarke Secura Anti Theft Bag. This is perfect if you’re out and about in wet weather. (out of stock at time of editing)

My favourite! Unfortunately not available yet in the UK without extra import/shipping fees, ( to the best of my knowledge, I’ve looked but that could change) although other Lewis N Clark products are available. USA and Canada can buy this cool green, blue or black bag.

• water resistant outer
• durable exterior
• fabric lined
• anti-slash fabric and internal steel shoulder strap reinforcement
• exterior locking pocket
• locking hardware to secure to tables etc.
• RFID blocking pocket for cards
• internal organiser pockets including zip pocket
• slimline profile
• 11 x 3 x 9.5 inches
• 49 inch strap
• main locking zip compartment
• also available in onyx

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Take a look – Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag. A key feature is the lobster claw designed to be secured to bars or tables.

If you are in Australia , the Travelon anti-theft bag is here .

• internal pockets
• external water holder
• RFID blocking card and passport sections
• cut proof, cable reinforced shoulder strap
• lobster claw clasps on pockets and straps
• slash resistant internal mesh on body panels
• main strap can be used to fasten to immovable objects using lobster claw
• strap length 28-48 inches
• size 11 x 10 x 4.5 inch
• a range of colours, I like the blue.

New – Travelon Messenger Anti Theft Urban Bag

Take a look at the new urban Travelon messenger here. This could be my new favourite!

I like this one a lot! It’s a little more expensive than most of the travel bags on here, but for people like me who often carry their laptops ( I’m what’s known as a digital nomad, I work online from anywhere) a bag like this is gold. I love the style too, plus the usual Anti Theft features along with a laptop pocket.

• Take a small laptop, plus ipad or tablet in a padded buckled compartment (up to 14 inches)
• Has a pass-thru strap on the rear to secure this bag to your wheeled luggage.
• RFID blocking pockets for passports and credit cards
• Strengthened strap which can be attached to fixtures and furnishings.
• Slash resistant mesh

Travelon Classic Anti-Theft Mini Shoulder Bag

Check out the Travelon Classic Anti-Theft Mini Shoulder Bag. Perfect if you need a small bag. Best for a night out maybe?

• available in black, blue, red, light grey – many colours and patterns
• slash proof
• locking compartment
• RFID blocking card and passport area
• cut proof shoulder strap
• strap can be fastened to immovable objects
• size 10 x 9.5 x 2 inches

Travelon Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Cross-Body Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody, Black, Straight Pocket

• comes in blue, red, dark grey, beige and black
• 3, larger, locking compartments
• main compartment has RFID blocking card and passport section
• slash resistant body
• cut resistant shoulder strap
• strap can be fastened around immovable objects with lobster claw fastening
• 29 inch drop
• larger size, 11.5 x 13.75 inch

Baggalline Everywhere Cross Body Bag

Baggalline Everywhere Cross Body Bag. Great if you’re wearing your bags across your body.

• A great range of colours
• multiple pockets
• spacious, longer drop for cross body use.

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag

This one comes in red, blue, black, patterns, there is loads of choice!

This one is a larger size, with all the usual Travelon anti theft features

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross body bucket bag will hold a 10 inch tablet or I pad.

• anti cut strap
• anti slash panels
• RFID blocking card/passport section
• lower price than many for the black version
• built in external water pocket
• built in external umbrella pocket
• locking main compartment
• strap can lock to an immovable object
• larger size 10 inch high by 14 inch deep
• available in leopard, grey, green, purple and black – good choice of colours.

Bagallini Pocket Waterproof Cross Body Bag

• durable nylon
• great colour range

Larger Anti Theft Travel Bags, Backpacks and Daypacks

With most of these bags you will need portable chargers or power banks, we created a post on our favourite (often solar) chargers here . The Bobby Bag is the most expensive of these 3 but it’s so feature-packed it’s hard to ignore. This one is my pick for city use or even to use as a small carry on bag. I regularly use a small backpack or daypack as a travel purse, it’s far more convenient and like the cross-body bags, more secure.

Baggalini (a well-known anti-theft travel bag brand) now make their own stylish anti-theft women’s small backpack or daypack for vacations, perfect for European trips. Take a look here. This one features Baggalini’s Securetex textile.

The Bobby Bag was out of stock the last time we checked, check out this very inexpensive one instead, we are keeping the information below for now, as these may become available again. The Bobby Bag is a costly purchase, I’d rather spend more in this instance.

Anti Theft Laptop Bags or Day Packs

Above – Low Cost Anti Theft Business Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port Fits 15.6 inch Laptop

A backpack that will take your laptop safely and securely is an absolute God-send and these days I’d say that any daypack you choose, other than for trekking , must be laptop-sized. This one has all the bells and whistles. The zips are lockable with a combination padlock and his has an external USB port for charging your mobile devices. This Mancro bag is an Amazon Best Seller and the price is budget friendly.

Above – Again, pretty cheap – Oscaurt Anti-theft Travel Backpack, Business Laptop School Bookbag with USB Charging Port

The Original Bobby Bag

The Original Bobby Bag below would be my choice. It’s so packed with features that I can’t possibly describe them all here. Again you can charge, again it has protective layers, I love that you can keep public transport cards handy in front pockets ( the perfect bag for London use!). Just click through and see the features, it’s a brilliant design. Next time I’m in London I’m getting one of these, pink, blue and yellow compact versions are available too.

The most expensive of these 3 and Amazon’s Choice – XD Design Bobby Original Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack with USB port (Unisex bag) bag)

If you are in Australia  the original Bobby Bag city anti-theft laptop bag is here .

Anti-Theft Bags Available in the UK

Just click below to see a selection of anti theft bags available in the UK currently.  For our USA readers and all other countries, you should be fine with any of the other links on this page. Pacsafe are very popular in the UK and you’ll see a few choices below.

Are Anti Theft Bags Worth Buying?

Yes, we think the added peace of mind and security of using an anti-theft travel bag is helpful. Anti-theft bags have features such as slash-proof fabric, hidden lockable pockets, hooks and straps to attach to furniture and cut-resistant cross-body or shoulder straps. They also often have RFID blocking technology. I have had a bag, a backpack, slashed on a train. I had an anti-theft layer inside the outer bag. The thieves got nothing.

Extra Anti Theft Devices For Travel

In addition to your anti-theft bag, you may want some other anti-theft devices for your trip.

Cable locks allow you to secure your bags to a bench, a train luggage rack, a table, your other bags, or anything that will make them harder to snatch. Useful at airports, train stations and anywhere you sit-a while, the brand below is one of the most well respected and TSA compliant. Cheap versions are easy to break. Cable locks are brilliant if you need to attach bags to an immovable object like on a train for instance.

Most of the dedicated anti-theft bags remove the need for a cable lock, but your main luggage may still require locking up.

Then you can think about hidden wallets and pockets in secret pouches. They’re all going in our new post, coming soon!

More Anti-Theft Bags and Other Travel Essentials

Anti-theft bags can be cross-body, a shoulder purse, a small backpack, large backpack or and main luggage bag. We think they should be items on your travel essentials list.

Visit our other posts in our “travel gear” category for more items to pack and carry with you on your trip, to Europe, Africa, Asia, the world!

Small Cross-Body Anti-Theft Purse v Travel Organiser

This year (2023 and 2024) I’m trialling a very small cross-body bag by Bagallini to use in place of my travel passport wallet organiser. I think this will work well and be more “hands-free” at the airport.

I used this bag in Japan last fall and it was great for the airport and on the plane. For evenings it was good, but for big sightseeing days, I took my daypack and kept this little bag inside. I was very happy with this anti-theft bag and I will use it for my extended solo travels in 2024, alongside my daypack, which doubles as my carry-on luggage.

This is the bag I chose to buy. It’s a Baggalini triple zip, I chose beige to match my boots and it has a glorious pink lining.

Don’t Worry About Theft Too Much

I want to reassure you that theft isn’t a major issue from the moment you leave your front door to travel.

In 20+ years of travel, to 50+ countries I’ve had one pickpocketing incident. I stupidly left my bag unzipped on a crowded bus in Malaysia.

We have had one bag stolen completely, we took our eyes off it in an airport in Australia.

On one occasion we had a bag slashed by a potential thief, luckily it had a metal mesh inner to make it knife proof.

We travel full-time and have lived in London (which some travellers consider high risk for theft and sadly our theft problem is rising, scooter thieves are targetting pedestrians) for many years.

These anti theft travel bags exist, mostly, to give you extra peace of mind. It’s your choice, do you need one? While a handy-sized cross body bag is always a good idea, particularly for airport days when your documents ( see organisers here ) need to be accessible and extra pack security is reassuring, we don’t want you to think your belongings and documents are always in imminent danger. Make sure you take out good travel insurance too, this is the one we use .

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

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Alyson Long

What is thai food (thai food for beginners), amphawa floating market, 30 thoughts on “best anti-theft travel bags”.

We absolutely love your post on anti-theft travel bags – very useful information. We are going to buy the Lewis N Clarke Secura Anti Theft Bag – thank you.

Oh good, that one is my favourite!

Really many many thanks for your great advice. Actually anti theft bag is really so helpful for a tourist or for a traveling. In your blog I find few tips which are helps me on my next travel. Thanks for everything.

I love your travel bag. It is really good for travelling.

Great post! Thanks for the tips on the best bags to keep from the thieves.

This idea was absolutely nice, it gives travelers peace as they travel. to their different Africa safari destinations. Thieves will now have nothing un worked for!

Alison, you may want to update these recommendations . I purchased a Travelon anti theft bag that you recommended from Amazon. It looked fantastic….. until I read the small sticker attached that warned me that the fabric of the bag had been treated by a chemical that is known to cause cancer and birth defects in the State of California ! I was really shocked to see this sticker on the bag and that Travelon and Amazon are allowed to sell products that carry a health warning. Needless to say, I packaged it up and used Amazon’s return system to send it back. To their credit, Amazon were great and I got a full refund .

Interesting, thanks Julie. It happens all the time. We eat stuff here in Australia that is banned elsewhere and vice versa.

Whenever I travel, I usually got so stressed out because of how I make sure to look after all my things thinking someone is just out there waiting for his perfect time to grab my belongings from me. This is maybe a result of a traumatic experience I had a couple of years ago when someone tried to pickpocket me. The experience created a hole in my heart to the point that it is really hard for me to trust people anymore. Good thing the market already have these kind of bags that offers protection to its market. I’m really very glad that at least I can be assured of my safety especially when i am on the road with these bags. Thank you for this article. I will definitely grab one. You’re such a blessing.

Thank you, I even can’t think about such blogs. Very helpful. I will love to purchase one for my India trip.

Good selection of bags thanks for sharing. I am looking for a Anti Theft bag and your analysis has narrowed down my choice.

I have been searching better anti theft bags for months and it would be great if I found it before March coz I am planning to travel to Germany for the very first time and need something light and easy to lug around. Thanks

Incredible analysis. Anti-theft bags are brilliant in design. Again, good job.

Good post – I have had three Travelon bags now – after being pickpocketed in Barcelona on the metro from what I thought was a hard to steal from bag (not one of theses obvs), but those guys are the best! I got a small one initially and used it at home and travelling. Great for cash and passports, but that was all so I replaced it with a bucket bag last year and while it is ideal for hand luggage as an addition to checked in luggage, not so much for everyday, too big and it looked like a travel bag. Researching them for a friend I found the Travelon Hobo bag, with all the security features but it looks like the canvas bags of my student days. Love it. Doesn’t scream traveller. As you say Alyson, theft is not a major threat, I have been pickpocketed twice, once in 1982 in St Tropez and once about 10 years ago in Barcelona and these are two places where the professionals practice their art – but the reassurance that I have taken the best precautions to prevent theft makes me feel better (the Barcelona event stressed me for weeks after as I felt I had been stupid). The belt, I am getting one for my husband, as he is the back up money guy and hates taking his belt off at airports. He also wants a man bag, so I may look at the Kipling. Thanks for the research and advice.

It’s oly happened to us in Malaysia Coral. A pick pocket on a bus just stuck his hand into my day pack, which was open. The betrayal of trust is hardest to deal with for me. Thieves are not a major threat, but there are always a few and taking precautions is good for peace of mind. A lot of trouble in London recently too with scooter thieves snatching bags and phones as they ride past, particularly areas like Mayfair. I’ve lived in London years, but these days I’m cautious. Did you see the shooting of that boy yesterday? Oh my gosh crime is getting bad there.

I liked the idea of an anti-theft backpack. Along with added security, it helps to store the laptop and other essential belongings while going on a trip or while using daily commutes.

It is just a perfect post. With all the aspects clearly mentioned, this is going to help me pick up the best anti-theft travel bag. Your small miniature bag is lovely! I liked it.

Awesome post! I love the security belt! I discretely keep back up cash in local currency, american dollars and I also insert certified copies of my documents such as passport and birth certificate. Best travel buy ever!

Yes, it can be a smart move and with a belt you can just wear it and forget it, no sweaty pouches under your clothes.

Love the sound of these. Fantastic post, thanks!

This is a great list. I love Baggalini, my everyday go-to is a Baggalini. I bought the Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag in purple for traveling to Paris. It was great! It held 2 bottles of water, a nappie and wipes, and small snacks, in addition to my wallet. It is a great size.

Really useful article – I haven’t really thought about this in much depth yet but will definitely come back here when we cross that bridge in our travel plans.

I really like the look of the Kipling one, but might have to purchase one of the ones with inner mesh for our next adventure too. Always thought about them but never bought one. I really must!

Lots of great suggestions. I’d never heard of the travel security belt, great idea!

We’ve had a Kipling backpack style bag for sixteen years and they are very robust-really fancy one of the across the body anti-theft ones. Really stylish too.

I have a Kipling too, a bit bigger than your husband’s. I love it because it’s super cute and light.

Great bags, I did not know there are antitheft travel bags. Thank you for this article. So useful! My mother got her bag cut on the bus. Fortunately they did not steal her wallet, but the bag was ruined. I will look into these for her.

Great advice! And these were exactly what I was looking for, thanks!

It is common to get your bag stolen during travel or trip. Making sure that you have anti-theft in which you can put essential would be best idea. I appreciate the suggestions and buy 1 for my next travel with my family.

It’s not common. Don’t worry.

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