11 Best Anti Theft Travel Backpacks: How to choose best anti theft backpacks
Every time we travel, we carry a piece of our cherished belongings with us – be it a special bracelet, a scarf, a note-book or a photograph. It makes us a little less home-sick when we are overseas, when we look at an item – that fills our heart with joy and memories. In our travels, we also take essential items like passport, IDs, money and electronics and it is SO important to ensure they are kept safe and secured at all times. That’s where a sturdy, cut proof companion comes to the picture, which is your travel back pack. Anti theft travel backpacks are a necessity when you travel in crowded places, public transit, overnight journeys and the like. In this post, we will highlight the 11 best anti theft backpacks for travel available in the market and how you should be choosing one for yourself.
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Best Anti Theft Travel Backpacks – Guide to choose the best anti theft backpacks
Anti theft back pack are made up of special slash proof or cut proof materials that can resist thieves or pickpockets from getting access to your valuables. They also have metal zippers and locks on them to secure your items. On your travels or daily commute, you will always carry important documents, cash and electronics, so having a solid anti theft backpack gives you a piece of mind when you are exploring the world or going about your day!
Most travel backpacks range from 15 litre to 80 litres. To fit as a carry-on, a backpack cannot exceed 45 litres (for most flights). At 45 L, you can comfortably carry electronics/laptop, camera, 4-5 sets of clothes, shoes, cosmetics, documents, water bottle, etc. Always carry what you NEED, don’t carry items in excess (think about your back)
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why should you get an anti-theft backpack?
There are SO SO many reasons why you should get an anti-theft backpack.
- My first reason is travels to popular places. If you are traveling to Europe, say Paris or Rome and walking in crowded market squares, carry your belongings in an anti theft backpack or a cross body bag.
- Traveling in public transit in New York or London? Or overnight trains from Lisbon to Madrid, having an anti-theft backpack will allow you to sleep peacefully while you hook your backpack to a secured/stationary spot
- Identity theft can happen anywhere. Secure your passports and IDs with RFID protection that comes in built with most anti theft back packs.
Read our post on Carry essentials for long haul flights
How to choose anti theft backpacks for travel?
Before we get into the specifics of how one should choose an anti-theft travel backpack, lets go over some of the key features of these bags.
Backpack composition
- Anti theft backpacks are made up of sturdy and durable material, which safeguards your valuables. In the market, there are backpacks with cut-proof or slash proof technology. Cut or slash proof bags mostly have hidden steal cables in the backpack composition, which makes it impossible for thieves to cut through the bags
- Anti-theft back packs also consist of hidden slots or pocket to secure small items
- Locks and zippers are common features of anti theft bags (pickpocket proof)
RFID Protection – in Anti theft travel backpacks
- RFID is an acronym for radio-frequency identification. It refers to the technology where digital data encoded in RFID tags or smart labels can be/are captured by a reader via radio waves.
- Anti theft travel backpacks with rfid blocking technology protects your passport, credit cards and other IDs. This is one of the MUST have safety features for identity protection
How to choose anti theft bags for travel?
Here are some important factors that you should consider while choosing the BEST anti theft backpack
- Where are you traveling to? Crowded place, transit stations, tourists places ✔ Choose an anti-theft back pack with cut and slash proof technology
- What are you carrying?
- Traveling with just the essentials like passport, some documents, small electronics? ✔ Get an anti-theft backpack with RFID technology. Small size back-pack is always better.
- Need to carry everything clothes, laptop, documents? ✔ Choose a bag with all the prime anti theft features (lock, slash proof, RFID) and a size of 40-45L
- Only using a backpack as a weekender bag with clothes, cosmetics. ✔ Choose a sturdy backpack, with locks (RFID not necessary)
- Carrying a laptop? ✔ Check laptop size (11′ inch upto 17 inch, padded sleeves) and the bag dimensions
- How long are you carrying the bag for?
- Need a backpack all day long ✔ Opt for anti-theft classic bags, light and small travel backpack (like a day pack). Consider shoulder straps and check if its padded for extra comfort (padded shoulder straps)
- In-Flight carry-on ✔ Check the bag size/weight. Generous mouth opening to take items in and out, if needed at security check in. Having compartments is also handy at the airport check in.
- Extra Features – Other than the primary anti-theft features, some backpacks are loaded with extras like USB ports, headphones ports, side pockets for water bottle which is also something to consider
11 Best Anti theft Backpacks for Travel Comparison Guide + Reviews (Best Anti theft Travel Backpack)
| Anti Theft Backpack | Details | Check Prices |
|---|---|---|
Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15L  | Size: Small - Fits 11' laptop - RFID ✔ - Great daypack or commuter - For petite travelers Price: $$ | Check prices |
Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 25L  | Size: Large - Fits 15.5' laptop - Roomy backpack - RFID ✔ - Perfect carry-on - For tall travelers Price: $$+ | Check prices |
PacSafe Vibe 40l Anti-Theft Carry-on Backpack  | Size: Very Large - Fits 15' inch laptop - Generous opening, roomy - RFID ✔ - 40 L, carry on approved - For all travelers Price: $$+ | Check prices |
Pacsafe Venturesafe Exp45 Anti-Theft Carry-on Backpack  | Size: Very Large - Fits 15' inch laptop - Generous opening, roomy - External slots for umbrella, mats, jackets - RFID ✔ - 45 L, carry on or check in - For all travelers Price: $$$ | Check prices |
XD Design Bobby XL 17" with USB port  | Size: Large - Fits 17' laptop - USB port - RFID ✖ - Water repellent - Fits all travelers Price: $$ | Check prices |
XD Design Bobby Urban Anti-Theft Backpack Cut Proof  | Size: Large - Expands up to 27L - RFID ✔ - Hidden pockets - Water repellent - Perfect carry-on Price: $$+ | Check prices |
Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack  | Size: Small - Fits tablet - Stylish - RFID ✔ - Classic everyday backpack Price: $ | Check prices |
MODAR Anti Theft backpack with Smart Lock, USB Port   | Size: Large - Fits 16' inch laptop - Smart lock - USB + headphone port - RFID ✖ - Roomy Price: $ | Check prices |
Tzowla Anti-Theft Backpack TSA Lock & USB Charging Port  | Size: Large - Fits 16' inch laptop - USB + Headphone slot - TSA lock - RFID ✖ - Best for carrying clothing Price: $ | Check prices |
Kopack Slim Anti theft Backpack  | Size: Slim/large - Fits 17' laptop - Best for electronics - RFID ✖ - Water resistant - USB port - Fits all travelers Price: $ | Check prices |
Mancro Anti Theft Back pack  | - 20 x 12.2 x 5. 7 inch - USB port - RFID ✖ - Best for electronics & travel essentials Price: $ | Check prices |
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Pacsafe Backpack Metrosafe LS350 15L Anti Theft Backpack Review
Pacsafe is a leader in anti-theft bag technology and this back pack is a great example. Pacsafe anti-theft backpacks are made up of ‘eXomesh Slashguards’ technology, so what it does is that the bag material is made of hidden stainless steel wire mesh, making it impossible to slash and run away with your belongings. It also has lock down point for zippers (which secures your backpack against pickpockets) and also has discreet zippers. This anit-theft backpack can fit an 11 inch laptop.
Details
- Dimensions: 16.5″H x 11.6″W x 5″D
- Size: Small
- Colors: Black, navy, khaki
- Warranty: 5 years
Anti-theft Backpack features
- Pacsafe anti theft bags come with patented anti-theft technology with slash proof material (‘eXomesh Slashguards’)
- It includes lock down zippers – which are intuitive Lockabout security clips offering 3 levels of security against pickpockets.
- Metrosafe LS350 anti theft backpacks include RFID technology to protect against identity theft
- Organizational space with 5 slips, 2 zippers and 3 exteriors
- Clean and low profile design, loaded with strong anti-theft features
- Easy to carry the MOST essentials.
Why Choose this Backpack?
- Pacsafe is ONE of the best brand names in the anti theft backpack manufacturers
- It protects your items as well as provides identity protection (with RFID technology)
- This Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15 L is best suited for petite travelers.
- Also perfect if you wish to carry limited items.
Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 25 L Anti Theft Back pack Review
The Pacsafe Metrosafe is a good size back pack to carry a 15 inch laptop, and store documents, mid size camera, 1-2 pair of clothes, small electronics and other travel essentials. The back pack is made up of patented technology, which consists of cut proof material made up of lightweight steel to prevent theft and pick pocketing. Also comes with RFID technology to keep credit cards and IDs safe from identity theft.
Details
- Dimensions: 18.9″H x 11.8″W x 6.7″D
- Size: Medium – Large
- Colors: Black, gray, deep navy, khaki, earth
- Warranty: 5 years
Anti-theft Backpack features
- Pacsafe anti theft bags come with patented anti-theft technology with slash proof material (‘eXomesh Slashguards’)
- Includes RFID technology to protect against identity theft
- Ample organizational space with 3 lockable zipper, 1 padded sleeve – laptop compartment (that fits 15″ Laptop), 2 side pockets, 2 zipper interior Pockets (1* RFIDsafe), 1 Clip
- Can hold a lot of contents including electronics. Very roomy backpack.
- Easy and comfortable on the shoulders. Adjustable strap with slash guard protection
Why Choose this Backpack?
- Pacsafe is ONE of the best brand names in the anti theft backpack realm
- It protects your items as well as provides identity protection (with RFID technology)
- Spacious – holds electronics and other travel items
- This Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 25 L is best suited for tall travelers. Some might find the straps too wide and it can be only adjusted up to a certain length, may not fit petite body frames.
Pacsafe Vibe 40l Anti theft Large Backpack Review
If you are looking for a carry-on anti theft backpack to carry a few days worth of clothes and other essentials, along with laptop electronics – then consider the Pacsafe Vibe 40 L anti theft backpack. As the name suggests, this is a large backpack – 40 litre – and is approved as an in-flight carry on. It features all the Pacsafe standard anti theft features like the ‘eXomesh Slashguards’, has RFID safe pocket, smart zippers and so much more.
Details:
- Dimensions: 19.7″H x 13.8″W x 7.1″D
- Size: Very Large (40 L)
- Colors: Red (Goji berry), Black, Navy, Camouflage
- Warranty: 5 years
Key Anti-theft back pack features
- This backpack comes with Pacsafe’s patented anti-theft technology – slash proof material (‘eXomesh Slashguards’)
- Includes RFID technology to protect against identity theft
- Smart zipper technology with zip sliders that overlap and zipper pullers have discreet security hooks
- Also comes with Roobar anti-theft anchor lock – this feature allows for multiple compartments to be locked together with a single padlock. It also enables you to lock down zippers, slash guard straps and lock cables
- PopNLock Security feature allows you to attached the strap to a secure feature (like a bike lock), to prevent theft in overnight trains or buses.
- Comfortable to carry, with multiple ways to use the strap
- This backpack open like a suitcase carry-on, so you can fit a lot in it. Includes an internal sleeve for a 15 inch laptop
Why Choose this Backpack?
- Pacsafe’s brand name – it is a well known brand for anti-theft backpacks
- 40L backpack fully loaded with anti-theft features – you can take it in-flight (carry on approved) and on overnight journeys and keep your valuables secure
- One of the best – LARGE size anti theft backpacks available in the market
Pacsafe Venturesafe Exp45 Anti-Theft Carry-on Backpack
If you require a LARGER backpack – 45 Litre – which is still carry on friendly, then consider this Pacsafe Venture safe 45 litre anti theft backpack. Loaded with features of slash proof material, anti theft zippers, RFID technology, with tons of compartments for your shoes, clothes, water bottle, laptop and cosmetics – this is a great option for someone looking to maximize the carry-on limit in an airplane.
Details:
- Dimensions: 21.6″H x 13.8″W x 8.7″D
- Size: Very Large (45 L)
- Colors: Black, Purple/Plum, Blue, Navy
- Warranty: 5 years
Key Anti-theft back pack features
- This backpack comes with Pacsafe’s patented anti-theft technology – slash proof material (‘eXomesh Slashguards’)
- Includes RFID technology to protect against identity theft
- Water resistant and durable long lasting material
- Comfortable to carry, with multiple ways to use the strap. With padded & adjustable shoulder straps (25.2″ to 36.22″), it allows for better weight distribution when hiking and/or walking. Back support padded with honey-comb fabric.
- This backpack open like a suitcase carry-on, so you can fit a lot in it. Includes an internal sleeve for a 15 inch laptop.
- Comes with three external attachment points to fit jackets, yoga mat, or sleeping bag.
Why Choose this Backpack?
- Pacsafe’s brand name – it is a well known brand for anti-theft backpacks
- 45L backpack fully loaded with anti-theft features – you can take it in-flight (carry on approved) and/or check in and keep your valuables secure
- One of the best – LARGE size anti theft backpacks available in the market
Bobby Anti Theft Backpack Review – 17 inch Bobby XL with XD Design & USB port
Bobby is a Dutch design brand who have been manufacturing backpacks and bags for the past 30 years. They have 8 models in their anti theft backpack design and one of them is the 17′ bag called the Bobby XL. As the name suggests, it is a big back pack and can fit up to a 17 inch laptop and a 12.5 inch tablet in the neatly organised compartments. The Bobby Anti theft back pack is made up of cut proof material and comes with hidden zippers and pockets for safety of your belongings. It is a unisex backpack.
Details
- Dimensions:18.5″ H x 12.4″W x 5.1″D inches
- Size: Large
- Colors: Black, Gray
Anti-theft Backpack features
- Back pack is made up to Cut proof material, with hidden zippers and pockets
- Backpack material is water repellent
- One of the Best anti theft waterproof travel backpack
- Has compartments to neatly organised your electronics
- The mouth opening of the bag is wide. It opens entirely to fit all items and then closes – using the hidden zippers.
- Also comes with an integrated USB for charging
- Backpack design puts less pressure on the spine through an optimal weight balance of items
- Note: The backpack doesn’t have a top handle
Why Choose this Backpack?
- Best for carrying larger electronic items, it is kept secured and safe under the cut proof back pack material.
- It is good for day to day commute, with electronics
- Can be used as a business laptop backpack
- Mid range – Good value anti theft waterproof backpack
XD Design Bobby Urban Anti-Theft Backpack Cut Proof Review
The XD Design Bobby Urban is the ULTIMATE anti theft backpack. It is made up of supreme cut proof material and it comes with steel enforced lock, hidden pockets, including hidden RFID protected pockets. This backpack can be expanded up to 27 litres – so this is a LARGE capacity bag. It is also water repellent and had reflective stripes for travels at night/low light.
Details
- Dimensions: 18.5″ H x 12.6″W x 5.9″D inches
- Size: Large
- Colors: Gray, Black
Anti Theft Features
- Made of cut proof material, with steel enforced locks (lock combination)
- RFID protected pockets, with hidden pockets in the shoulder straps and in the back
- Water repellent material
- This bag offers a large capacity and flexible usage – with roll up opening/closing (additional capacity net (30×30 cm)
- Luggage strap
- Padded material for laptop and tablet and space for other carry-on items
Why choose this backpack?
- Very versatile as it can be expandable.
- Great carry-on option, to include large size laptop, clothes, cosmetics, documents, and other essentials
- If you want reflective stripes and/or hidden card slots (on straps or back)
Travelon Anti Theft Backpack Review
Travelon anti-theft backpack is a classic everyday bag. It is equipped with an anti slash technology and comes with RFID protection. The back pack is ideal for everyday wear or quick in-city exploration. It has multiple compartments for organisation, including water bottle side pocket and a tablet sleeve.
It will not fit a laptop, but does fit a tablet, some clothes, cosmetic bag/packing tube, credit cards, documents, water bottle or umbrella.
Details
- Dimensions: 6″ D x 16″ H x 12″ W inches
- Size: Small
- Colors: Black, Navy, Nutmeg
Travelon Anti theft backpack features
- Classic back pack, with anti theft features (pickpocket proof)
- Slash-resistant body construction and slash-resistant, adjustable backpack straps
- RFID protection against ID theft
- Comes with locking compartments for tablet, credit cards, passport, water bottle, scarf
- Locking Straps – This allows you to lock your bag to a stationary object like a chair.
- The bag opening is very generous and wide
- Also has side pocket for umbrella or water bottle
- It is a small back pack and better suited for people with small body frame/statures. Strap extension is limited
Why Choose this Backpack?
- If you want a decently priced backpack, to carry day to day travel items – buy this bag – anti theft classic bag
- Very stylish backpack, with some great anti-theft features like slash proof material, RFID and strap locking
- Not suitable if you wish to carry larger electronics.
MODAR Anti-theft laptop back pack Review
The MODAR backpack is an affordable anti-theft travel backpack with a unique password code lock system as one of its features. It is a medium to large size bag, which holds up to 16 inch laptop, has reflective strips, USB charging port and private pockets to store items. The bag itself is made up of water-proof sturdy material.
Details
- Dimensions: 19.7′ H x 11′ L x 7 ‘ W
- Size: Large
- Colors: Black, Gray
- Warranty: 12 months
MODAR Anti theft backpack features
- The backpack is made up of water proof material
- It comes with a unique anti-theft pass code (3 digit anti-theft smart lock) to securely keep your valuable inside the bag
- Contains USB charging port + Headphone port
- It has reflective strips (for visual at night, ensures safety)
- Can hold lot of items including a 16 inch laptop and other travel essentials. It meets your daily needs or trips with a load of 20 kgs or 44 pounds
- It comes with private pocket (hidden design, which provides a private space)
- It also has a small pocket to store credit card on the shoulder strap – luggage strap (easy to take it to the trip)
- The backpack provide ergonomic support as well. The shoulder straps are wide and adjustable
Why Choose this Backpack?
- Good value for the price you pay for this backpack
- Perfect to carry day to day travel items, laptop, etc – secure it with a smart lock
- Hidden card slot (1 one), USB charging, headphones slots, spacious interiors are some of its nice features
- No RFID protection
Tzowla Travel Anti theft backpack TSA lock & USB Charging Review
Tzowla is one of the popular newer brands in the anti theft travel and business backpack market. This backpack has the anti theft feature – TSA lock. The backpack is made up of durable material, which is also water proof and has sturdy zippers to secure your valuable inside. This is a large size backpack and fits clothes, laptop, books, wallet, headphones, etc.
Details
- Dimensions: 18.11″ L x 11.8″ W x 8.27″ H inches
- Size:Large
- Colors: Black, Navy
- Warranty: Lifetime
Anti theft backpack features
- Classic back pack, with TSA Lock anti theft feature
- Opens the backpack 90-180 degree making it easy to check bags at security
- Water resistant and durable material, with sturdy metal zipper
- Adjustable backpack straps. Ergonomic backpack support
- Comes with USB port for charging and headphones hole
- Tons of organisation space for all of your belongings
- No RFID protection
Why Chose this Backpack?
- If you want a backpack with some anti theft features to carry clothes, cosmetics, books, etc and no valuables like Credit card (no RFID protection) or laptop then get this bag
- It found its place in this list – because of warranty, sturdy back pack material with the TSA lock, ergonomic support, USB port for charging
Kopack Anti theft Backpack with USB Review
Kopack anti-theft backpack is ideal for carrying your electronics (travel computer backpack). It is a slim slash proof backpack with about 17 organisational compartments. The laptop backpack can fit up to a 17 inch laptop – you can choose the size of the laptop pouch on check-out. The backpack is made of a durable and tear-resistant material. It also comes with a 4 tooth zipper to secure your laptop.
Details
- Dimensions: Choose from 15.6/17,17.3 inch laptop sizing
- Size: Slim but roomy and big
- Colors: Gray, Black
Kopack Slim backpack features
- Tear resistant, with double zipper and lock. Comes with an anti-puncture 4 tooth zipper on the main compartment
- Water resistant material. No marks left if water is wiped off in 5 minutes.
- Anti-scratch keeps bag brand new look for long time
- Padded shoulder straps for comfort.
- Multi pockets for organization
- Great detailing on the backpack like band for sunglasses
- Detachable USB cable to charge your electronics
- Slim backpack. Great for city or everyday wear
Why Choose this Backpack anti theft?
- Anti-theft business backpack – Kopack anti theft bag is a slim business laptop backpack. Perfect for petite bodies
- Safeguards your electronics while on the go. Perfect as a commuter bag with laptop and other small electronics like headphones, cables, iPod, etc
- One of the best “looking” anti theft backpacks
Mancro Anti Theft Laptop Backpack Review
Mancro anti-theft laptop backpack is a great option to carry your electronics and travel essentials. You can stow your laptop (upto 15.6 inches), and other valuables in this anti theft back pack. The back pack is made up of anti-theft material which is TEAR RESISTANT and comes with locks and metal zippers. You can set the lock combination for security. It comes with compartments, which helps in organization. The backpack has a generous opening and it can also fit clothes and shoes for 1-2 days. The bag is also waterproof.
It is easy on the shoulders, has a padded strap, which is also breathable and adjustable.
Details
- Dimensions: 20 x 12.2 x 5. 7 inch
- Size: Medium – Large
- Colors: Black, Red, Navy, Blue, Camouflage, Gray
Anti theft Back pack features
- Generous size, can fit up to 15.6 inches laptop and additional tech accessories and other travel essentials (clothes and cosmetics)
- Backpack is made up of anti-theft material, has metal zippers, locks and invisible pocket for keeping your valuables against thieves.
- It is waterproof and tear resistant
- Back pack has a built-in USB port for charging, on the go
- Unisex back pack. It comes in a variety of colors too
- Great organisational space – 3 main, 9 small and 2 sealed envelope sized inner pockets
- Sturdy and easy on the back
Why Choose this anti theft travel backpack?
- For budget lovers – This backpack is priced at a lower end of anti theft backpacks.
- Spacious backpack to hold electronics and travel essentials
Hope you found this article useful in deciding which anti-theft backpack to carry in your travels. This LIST has all the best in the market, you wont be disappointed.
Additional Reading Related to Anti theft travel backpacks
- Get Travel tips for Europe and use your anti theft travel backpacks Europe Travel Tips
- In need of a packing list for Europe, combine anti theft backpacks for travel and include clothing items for Europe – Europe Packing List
- Prefer a wheeled backpack for travel? Get a detailed review and comparison guide – Best Wheeled backpacks for Travel
Last Updated: August 11 2019
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Pin – The Best Anti-Theft Back pack for Travel Reviews: How to choose best anti theft travel backpacks
Once I was traveling and I lost my precious things in a robbery so I was finding a best and secure backpack that can handle my important documents and gadgets efficiently. This great and informative article help me a lot in choosing the right backpack for my travel.
Thanks for sharing
Really a great post on anti theft backpacks, i read it very simple and informative. keep it up thanks