The Best Anti Theft Backpacks For Travel [2024]

Backpacks are one of the best types of bag for travel.  Comfortable to wear and roomy inside, the only issue is you can’t see what is going on behind you when you have it on your back, which is why anti theft backpacks are such a great product.

So if you are looking to buy an anti theft bag and you are not sure what features you need or you are looking for the best anti theft backpacks for local or international travel, you have come to the right place.

In this guide to the best theft proof backpack I take you through the security features that help keep your valuables safe and then I review the top anti theft backpacks on the market today.

Don’t let a pickpocket ruin your day – regardless of whether you are looking for the best anti theft back pack for travel, the best anti theft laptop backpack for your daily commute, an anti theft college backpack or a simple anti-theft backpack with lock, we are confident you will find a great option here in our anti theft travel gear reviews.

>> Click here to see the best anti theft backpack 2024 now

Our Top Pick: The Best Anti Theft Backpack 2024

Short on time to read all of our reviews? Our top pick for the best anti theft backpack for travel is the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450.

Best Anti Theft Backpacks Comparison Table

We have researched the market to help you choose the best anti theft bag. The best anti-theft backpacks are summarised below for easy comparison.

Use the table to help you compare the features of the anti theft bag brands side by side and then read on for all our anti theft backpack reviews.

Best Anti Theft Backpacks for Travel 2023

Image	Anti Theft Backpack	Capacity	Anti Theft Features	Laptop	Price
	Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 Anti Theft Laptop Backpack	25 L	Lockable zippers Exomesh slashguard RFID blocking	Up to 16″	CHECK
	Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack	14 L	Locking compartments RFID blocking Slash resistant	Up to 13″	CHECK
	Sherpani Soleil, Anti Theft Backpack	14 L	Water resistant RFID blocking Zip lock tunnels and clip lock Chair lock	Up to 15″	CHECK
	Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack	17 L	Lockable zippers Exomesh slashguard RFID blocking	Up to 16″	CHECK
	Nomatic Travel Backpack	20 L / 30 L	RFID blocking Water resistant Hidden pockets	Up to 16″	CHECK
	Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Backpack	45 L	Zipper locks Stainless steel cable Stainless steel wire mesh	Up to 16″	CHECK
	Pacsafe Stylesafe Mini Backpack	12 L	Locking zippers RFID blocking	Up to 11″	CHECK
	Travelon Active Anti-theft Backpack	16 L	Slash resistant Lockable zippers RFID blocking	Up to 15.6″	CHECK
	Mancro Travel Backpack	25 L	Lockable zippers	Up to 15.6″	CHECK
	KOPACK Slim Business Laptop Backpack	19 L	Anti Theft zipper Hidden compartment Slash resistant	Up to 15.6″	CHECK
	Travelon Packable Theft Proof Backpack	18 L	Lockable zippers Slash resistant RFID blocking	Ipad or tablet	CHECK
	Kopack Anti Theft Travel Backpack	20 L	Hidden zippers Hidden pockets	Up to 15.6″	CHECK
	Pacsafe Travelsafe Portable Safe	12 L	Slash resistant Locking cable	Up To 15″	CHECK

What is an Anti Theft Backpack?

Unlike regular travel bags, theft proof luggage has been specifically designed to help protect your belongings when you travel.

Whether you are waiting in an airport, on a train station, walking through a busy street, or sitting at a restaurant, you want to be confident your belongings and valuables are safe and secure with a pickpocket proof backpack.

Secure travel bags have unique security features such as:

• Slash proof materials
• Hidden pockets
• Stronger, lockable zippers
• RFID blocking pockets
• Locking cables.

These features help reduce the risk of thieves accessing and stealing your valuables.

If you travel regularly or commute to work or school, a theft proof bag is a wise investment.  They give you a greater sense of security that your gear is safely stowed away.

Guide to Buying the Best Theft Proof Backpack

The best anti theft travel backpack will give you peace of mind that no matter where you are, your passport, credit cards, camera and other valuable belongings are safely stored.

There are a number of different anti theft features in travel backpacks.

Not all travel safe bags have all features, so we have listed the key anti theft features below to help you decide which features are most important to you.

If you already know what features you are looking for, you can skip straight to our anti theft backpack reviews by clicking here.

1. Slashproof Material

The best anti theft bags for travel have slashproof steel mesh embedded within the fabric of the bag.

This prevents the fabric being cut open to access your bag. Most Pacsafe travel bags and some Travelon anti theft bags have this design feature.

The steel wire mesh not only protects your belongings from opportunist thieves when you are on crowded trains or in busy markets.

It also prevents unwarranted access when you leave the bag in your hotel or with the concierge.

Some slash proof travel bags also have slashproof straps. This is an extra security feature to prevent your bag being stolen when it has been locked to a table or chair.

2. Lockable Zippers

Backpacks with lockable zippers are one of the best deterrents to prying eyes.

Some will have the backpack zipper locks on the main compartment. The best anti theft travel bags will have a lockable zipper on every section.

The design of travel bag locks will differ between each lockable backpack. Some require a separate padlock or recommend you use TSA approved luggage locks. Others have unique zipper lock designs.

Lockable zippers won’t prevent a determined thief with time on their hands trying to access your bag. They are most effective when commuting or out sightseeing as they prevent opportunists accessing your bag when you are not looking.

Note that some backpacks with locks will simply have a ring to hook the zipper to, instead of a physical lock.

While a lock is a superior solution, a zipper that is hooked to a D ring will usually be sufficient to deter thieves from trying to access your bag.

3. Hidden Zippers

Continuing on the zipper theme, a hidden zipper backpack makes it hard for thieves to access your bag.

The zippers to the main compartment are hidden at the rear of the bag when it is resting against your back.

Many new anti theft travel bags have this feature and in fact for some travel safe bags this is the only anti theft security feature.

If you are looking for a simple and cheap anti-theft backpack, travel bags with hidden zippers are a good choice.

4. Hidden Pockets

Secret compartments and hidden pockets are perhaps the most common anti theft feature on backpacks advertised as theft proof travel bags.

A hidden pocket is are often tucked away at the rear of the backpack where it is more difficult to access when you are wearing the backpack.

These hidden pockets are good places to store your passport, wallet, credit cards and mobile phone.

Some travel secure backpacks will also have zippered pockets deep inside the bag. This is another common anti theft feature.

5. Water Resistant

A secure travel backpack shouldn’t only ward off thieves. It should also protect your expensive tech gear from water damage if you get caught in a downpour when traveling.

An anti theft waterproof backpack may have an integrated bag cover to pull over the outside of the bag. Other anti theft bag brands will use water resistant materials.

Note few brands claim to have a fully waterproof theft proof backpack. Most are water resistant.

So if waterproofing is important, ensure you check the details. A separate cover is often the best option.

6. RFID Protection

A travel safe backpack will often include an RFID blocking card.

While there is debate about the extent of RFID fraud, many brands include RFID blocking material in anti theft daypacks.

RFID anti theft bags typically have an internal pocket lined with RFID blocking fabric which prevents radio waves skimming your credit card and passport data.

7. Built in Locking Cable

As a traveler, one of the biggest challenges is keeping your valuables safe.

For ultimate peace of mind, some anti theft backpacks for travel will include a locking cable to tie the bag to a table, chair, post etc.

Some are integrated locking cables, others are separate and some anti theft bag brands even incorporate a locking feature within the backpack strap.

This is a great security feature when you are waiting at a train station or at the airport and you need to secure your travel bags.

How To Choose The Best Anti Theft Travel Backpack

Now you know the features available on the best anti-theft travel backpacks, how do you choose the top anti theft backpack for you?

Here are some guidelines to help you make the best choice.

1. Anti-Theft Features

Consider the anti theft backpack features above and list which ones are most important to you. 

Is your main priority to find the best slashproof backpack? Perhaps you are looking for the best RFID travel backpack with a laptop compartment?

We have included an anti theft feature summary in each anti theft bag review to help you choose.

2. Size

You will notice there is a wide range of theft resistant backpack sizes available. This is an important feature to consider.

Are you looking for anti theft luggage for carry on, the best anti theft daypack or a secure backpack for commuting?

Consider what you need to fit inside your daypack and how many compartments you need.

• If you are a parent, you might need a larger pack to fit the kid’s drink bottles, sweaters and hats.
• If you are looking for the best anti theft backpack for college you will need a pack large enough to fit your laptop, books and notepad.
• A small anti theft backpack may be all you need if you pack light and need to carry a wallet, camera and water bottle.

Also consider whether the backpack is a good fit for your height.

Some antitheft backpacks are much longer than others, and may not be comfortable, especially if you are on the shorter side.

We list the backpack dimensions and laptop sleeve sizes in the anti theft travel bag reviews below to inform you about the size of the bag.

3. Style

There are a range of colors and styles available for many pickpocket proof backpacks. Where different colors are available we have indicated below.

The anti theft backpacks also differ in how they open and can be accessed.

Some of the secret zip backpack options open 90 or 180 degrees, others have access from the top.

4. Pocket Layout

I don’t know about you, but I need a good number of pockets in a backpack. Trying to find your mobile phone at the bottom of a backpack is never fun.

We explain the pocket layout for each bag below, but do consider whether external pockets or a backpack with hidden pockets are important to you (as some don’t have them).

5. Comfortable to Wear

Comfort is always an important criteria, and this will differ depending on your height and for how long you carry the bag.

Good anti theft backpacks will have high quality foam on the back of the bag. 

Note the quality, shape and padding of the straps too if you carry the bag for long periods of time.

We list the travel safe bag comfort features below to help you choose the best anti pickpocket bag for you.

Best Security Backpack – Product Summary

To quickly recap, here are the best theft proof backpacks reviewed in detail below:

• Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 anti theft travel laptop backpack, 25 L
• Travelon anti-theft classic backpack, 13L
• Sherpani Soleil anti theft backpack (women), 14L
• Pacsafe Citysafe CX anti theft backpack, 17L
• Nomatic travel backpack, 20L
• Pacsafe Venturesafe large anti theft backpack, 45L
• Pacsafe Stylesafe Mini Backpack, 12L
• Travelon Active anti theft pack, 16L
• Mancro anti-theft laptop backpack, 25L
• Kopack Slim anti thief backpack, 15L
• Travelon packable anti-theft travel backpack, 18L
• Kopack security travel backpack, 20L
• Pacsafe Travelsafe portable safe, 12L

The Best Anti Theft Backpack Reviews 2024

Whether you are looking for the best men’s anti theft bag or an anti theft women’s backpack, we think you will find a great option on our list.

1. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 Anti Theft Laptop Backpack Review

Best antitheft backpack overall

The Pacsafe Metrosafe backpack is our top pick for the best anti theft luggage. Pacsafe have an outstanding reputation for producing a high quality cut proof backpack.

We think this Pacsafe anti theft backpack has the best combination of anti-theft features, style, size and functionality. It also comes with a 5 year warranty!

The backpack and backpack straps are embedded with stainless steel wire and are cut proof. It is one of the few anti slash backpack options on our list.

All three sections have lockable zippers using a clever locking system to keep prying hands out of your bag. The straps have turn and lock security hooks which makes it so quick and easy to lock your bag down when out at a restaurant or at a train station.

The padded laptop sleeve inside fits a 16″ laptop and is suspended so your tech gear doesn’t touch the ground when your bag does.

The Pacsafe anti theft bag has a good number of zippered internal pockets, including an RFID pocket. The side pockets are practical for carrying water bottles and an umbrella.

This slash proof backpack is one of the larger options at 25 liters and can easily fit a laptop, camera, sweater, phones and other bits and pieces.

The Metrosafe LS450 is often out of stock, so if you are in a hurry, the Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti Theft 25L Backpack - With... has all the same anti theft features and is made from recycled PET.

There is also the smaller Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 which is 15 litres if you prefer a smaller daypack.

Best For: If you are looking for travel safe backpacks, this pack is a great option with plenty of antitheft features. We love it and think it is the best Pacsafe daypack for travelers and for everyday use too.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

2. Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack Review

Best stylish anti theft day pack

The Travelon anti theft travel bag is one of the smaller, more stylish anti theft bags on our list. It is a popular choice amongst female travelers who rate it as one of the best small anti theft bag options.

Like the Pacsafe backpack, the anti theft classic has slash proof straps and body.

Both compartments have lockable zippers and there are two small side pockets (not lockable).

Unlike the Pacsafe travel bags, the zippers simply attach to a d ring at the base of the zip. They can be fiddly to undo in a hurry, but are a simple pickpocket deterrent.

There are plenty of internal pockets including an RFID pocket inside the two compartments. Travelon backpack reviews note the straps are slightly shorter than others, which makes it a good choice for people on the shorter side.

This Travelon anti theft backpack doesn’t have room for a large laptop but can fit a tablet, ipad or small laptop up to 13″. 

While only 14 L in size, it is still able to fit most items you would expect to carry when out sightseeing during the day including a camera, light sweater, phone and headphones.

Best For: If you are looking for a more stylish anti theft backpack for weekend city trips or sightseeing when you travel, we think the Travelon daypack is a great choice.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

3. Sherpani Quest Anti Theft Backpack For Women

Best anti theft women’s backpack

If you are looking for the best women’s anti theft backpack, the Sherpani Soleil anti-theft bag is a great choice.

At 14 liters it is on the small side, but it is tailored for a female fit, has a contemporary urban design and an array of genuine anti-theft features.

This Sherpani slash resistant backpack has padded adjustable straps, two exterior and two side pockets and one main compartments with plenty of interior pockets to keep you organized.

You can wear the bag three ways – as a backpack, crossbody bag or tote. This makes it perfect for both work and travel.

In terms of anti theft protection, Sherpani have a 5 point anti theft system. The bottom of the bag is lined with anti slash material and the straps are slash proof. The bag is RFID protected, exterior zippers are fitted with lock tunnels and a clip lock on the main compartment.

The chair loop lock allows you to tie your bag to a pole, table or chair when you are out and about for extra peace of mind.

The melange and nylon fabric is water resistant to protect your gear when you caught in the rain and the compression straps help keep the bag compact when not fully packed.

Sherpani have a range of stylish anti-theft bags, cross body bags and tote bags to choose from and they all come with a lifetime warranty!

Best For: If you are looking for the best anti theft women’s backpack (stylish and functional), this bag by Sherpani is a great choice.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

4. Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Daypack Review

Best anti theft backpack for women

The Citysafe CX is Pacsafe’s best selling women’s anti theft backpack. Super chick and versatile, this stylish anti theft backpack is perfect for travel, weekends away and for school.

While only 17L, it fits a 16″ laptop in the padded internal sleeve and there are plenty of easy access internal pockets to keep your gear organized.

The Pacsafe Citysafe CX has all the anti theft technology you expect on Pacsafe backpacks – RFID blocking pockets, TurnNlock security hook, slashguard material, roobar style zip locking system and a secure zip tab.

The exterior and interior materials are water resistant and the newest version of this bag is made of Pacsafe’s ECONYL® regenerated nylon.

This bag comes with Pacsafe’s limited 5 year warranty.

Best For: If you are a traveler, student or commuter looking for a stylish slash proof bag to protect your gear, the Citysafe CX backpack is a great option.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

5. Nomatic Carry On Anti Theft Backpack Review

The Nomatic Travel Bag is one of the most functional anti theft carry on bags on our list.

Perfect for commuting and short trips away it has over 22 internal pockets to store your gear efficiently, including handy hidden pockets.

Made from water resistant materials it has high quality full perimeter zippers so you can open the bag like larger luggage for easy access and magnetic side pockets to keep the essentials handy.

The RFID safe storage, hidden pocket on the back of the bag, tuck away straps and secret air tag pocket make this the perfect anti theft daypack for travel.

The other great features of this bag are the built in expansion, which takes the bag from 20L to 30L and cord pass through holes for convenient charger access.

This theft proof bag fits up to a 16″ laptop. The laptop section is padded and suspended to protect your laptop when putting your bag on the ground.

Best For: Nomatic Travel Packs have a devoted following amongst frequent travellers. It has the essential theft proof backpack features you need and is a great choice for commuters looking for the best theft free backpack.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

6. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Backpack Review

Best anti-theft carry on backpack

If you are looking for the best anti theft carry on luggage, the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 is a great choice.

The Pacsafe Venturesafe bags are the outdoor range of Pacsafe bags and have all the world class anti theft features we have come to expect from Pacsafe.

At 45 liters it is the only anti theft convertible backpack on our list and is large enough to carry everything you need for a short trip (or even a longer trip to Europe if you pack light). It also meets most airline carry-on standards and has a padded internal laptop sleeve.

This Pacsafe slash proof travel backpack is versatile and can be worn two ways – as a backpack, or as luggage with the straps tucked away.

It has padded shoulder straps, hip belt for extra support, a large main compartment with book style opening for easy access to you clothes (with a strap to hold them in place) and a smaller front compartment with plenty of pockets for your small valuables.

It has some useful design features for backpackers including a hold strap for storing your jacket or travel pillow and external compression straps to keep the bag compact.

In terms of anti theft features this Pacsafe travel backpack has more than any other anti theft backpack Amazon has to offer.

Stainless steel mesh within the fabric means it is a cut proof travel bag.  It has puncture resistant lockable zippers and a locking cable to secure your bag. (Note a separate lock is required to actually lock the zips to the bar).

If you are looking for checked anti theft luggage, note the straps can be tucked away.

Best For: If you are looking for the the best travel anti theft backpack that will fit all of your belongings in for your next trip away, this is the perfect choice.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

7. Pacsafe Stylesafe Mini Backpack Review

Best anti theft small backpack for women

The Pacsafe Women’s Stylesafe Mini Backpack is a small theft proof backpack perfect for day trips and sightseeing.

At only 12 liters, you will fit a tablet or small laptop in the padded sleeve, and it is large enough to fit a camera and other small bits and pieces in the main compartment. It has 2 drink bottle holders on the outside for easy access while out sightseeing.

Inside the Pacsafe anti theft bags there is an RFID pocket as well as other small pockets to keep organised.

The unique anti theft feature on this bag are the clippable secure zippers, cut proof material and the adjustable anchor strap to secure your bag without a lock. This system acts as a simple deterrent to would be thieves.

Best For: The Pacsafe Stylesafe backpack with lockable zippers is a good choice for people looking for a safety backpack in a smaller more compact size.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

8. Travelon Active Anti-Theft BackPack Review

Best anti theft backpack for men

The Travelon Active anti theft daypack is one of the most popular locking travel backpack options on our list, with several advanced anti theft features and a thoughtful design.

This pack from the Travelon Active Collection has a large main compartment with internal pockets and a fleece lined padded 15.6″ laptop and tablet section.

The front organizer compartment has an RFID blocking pocket and several small lockable pockets for keeping you organized.

What we love about this anti theft bag is all the Travelon Anti Theft Security System features including slash resistant mesh on the front and bottom, slash resistant strap, TSA approved lockable zippers and RFID blocking card slots and pocket.

When you combine that with handy features such as the padded shoulder straps and chest clip, zippered side water bottle pockets, tethered key clip with LED light and internal pockets for storing valuables, you see how practical this secure backpack is for travelers and commuters alike.

A 16 liters it is large enough to fit the essentials without being bulky and heavy. It is water and dirt resistant and has breathable air mesh on the back for extra comfort.

Best For: If you want advanced anti-theft design and a comfortable pack for long days of sightseeing, the Travelon Active anti theft daypack is a great choice for travel.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

9. Mancro RFID Anti Theft Travel Backpack Review

Best anti theft backpack for students

The Mancro anti theft backpack is a basic anti theft bag with lockable zippers. Like the Bobby, it has a built in USB charger accessible from outside the bag.

There are two main compartments but note only the main compartment has a lockable zipper (which attaches to a ring on the side of the bag).

There are plenty of small internal pockets to stay organised and external side pockets for a water bottle or umbrella.

At 25 litres the Mancro backpack is more generous in size and will comfortably fit school books and laptop, or gear to get out and explore when traveling.

Whilst the supplier advises up to 15.6″ laptops will fit, many Mancro backpack reviews indicate people can actually fit a 17″ laptop in the sleeve.

The Mancro RFID Backpack doesn’t have any of the more advanced anti theft features. But it is roomy, well priced and one of the best anti theft everyday backpack options.

Best For: We think it is a good anti theft school backpack for college students. If you are looking for the best anti pickpocket backpack for travel, we think there are better options on this list.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

10. Kopack Slim Laptop Anti Theft Backpack Review

This Kopack anti theft backpack has three main compartments and an overall capacity of 20 liters and is one of the best anti theft backpack with charger options.

The rear hidden laptop section is tucked behind the shoulder straps for extra security and the zipper can be locked to a D ring (no lock provided).

Overall we like the slim design and hidden laptop compartment on the Kopack anti theft laptop bag. This model fits up to a 15.6″ laptop, but there is an option to select a larger design for a 17″ laptop.

Note that the laptop section is not suspended, and in some Kopack backpack review feedback this was an issue (as your laptop does touch the bottom of the bag).

The front compartment has a lot of practical small pockets, but there isn’t a d ring to lock the zips, so we wouldn’t recommend storing your passport and wallet here.

Like many other travel safe bags, the Kopack anti-theft backpack comes with an external USB charger port to charge your phone on the go.

Best For: This Kopack backpack is not slash proof but it is a good choice for local trips, students and daily commuters.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

11. Travelon Packable Theft Proof Travel Backpack Review

Best lightweight secure backpack for travel

If you are looking for a packable travel anti theft backpack, this fold away bag by Travelon is a great option.

Unlike a regular backpack it packs into its own compartment for easy storage in your luggage when traveling. But when unpacked it has a reasonable capacity of around 18 litres.

The pack is made from water and dirt resistant lightweight fabric and there are two side mesh pockets for handy water bottle and umbrella storage. Inside the main compartment is an interior RFID pocket.

it has all the Travalon Anti Theft security features you would expect including slash resistant mesh on the bottom and front panels, lockable compartments and slash resistant straps.

There is no laptop sleeve inside the bag, but customers report the bag can comfortably fit an ipad or tablet in the main compartment.

The Travelon packable travel anti-theft backpack is a modern lightweight backpack and one of the best secure backpacks on this list.

Best For: The Travelon Anti theft active packable backpack is a good travel safe bag for trips to Europe and backpackers looking for a compact option.

>> Click here to check the price and read Amazon reviews

12. Kopack Scan Smart Anti Theft Laptop Backpack Review

Best anti theft laptop backpacks

This Kopack backpack with hidden back pocket is a slightly larger design.

It has a number of good anti theft features such as hidden zippers, a hidden back pocket and small interior pockets for keeping your mobile and wallet safely stowed.

It has one main compartment, with a number of small pockets and a separate padded sleeve for a large laptop up to 15.6″ and also a tablet.  

There is padding on the back and on the shoulder straps for extra comfort.  Unfortunately there are no large side pockets for a water bottle.

This minimalist anti theft bag opens 180 degrees so packing the bag is simple, as is going through airport security. 

The Kopack travel backpack has a capacity of around 20 liters so there is plenty of space to store your gear.

Best For: This is a great anti theft college backpack and business commuters, but is also a good choice for travelers who are looking for an affordable anti theft backpack.

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

13. Pacsafe Travelsafe Portable Safe

Finally, the last product we recommend to purchase in conjunction with an anti-theft travel backpack is the Pacsafe Travelsafe Portable Safe.

This product is great to leave in your hotel room or in your camper with all the tech gear you don’t want to carry around with you during the day.

Most hotel safes are not large enough to store laptops, kindles and other gear you may want to leave at the hotel.

We own the 12l Portable safe and it easily fits a laptop, tablet, 2 kindles, 4 passports, 2 mobile phones and a DLSR camera.

You can lock the bag up and head out to explore, unencumbered by the weight of your valuable tech gear.

You can be confident it is safely stored at the hotel or in your camper away from prying eyes and fingers.

We travel everywhere with this bag and think it is an essential item for travel and one of the best motorhome accessories too.

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

How to Avoid Pickpockets

Whilst a theft safe backpack is a great way to deter pickpockets, it also pays to take some simple precautions to reduce the risk of theft.

Below we share some of our best tips to avoid pickpockets when you travel based on our experience traveling the world over the past 25 years.

General Travel Safe Tips

1. Use the anti-theft features of your bag. Lock the backpack compartments. This is the single most effective tip for how to prevent pickpocketing.
2. Place valuables such as your wallet and passport inside a zippered internal pocket in a locked compartment of your backpack.
3. Take only what you need out with you and lock the rest of your valuables in your hotel room in the pacsafe portable safe.  A pickpocket can’t steal what you don’t carry with you. We will often lock away our passports, extra credit cards and tech gear in the Pacsafe portable safe when we head out sightseeing.
4. Keep your wallet locked away and carry a small amount of cash and a single credit card in a front pocket for purchases.

Tips for how to prevent pickpocketing when you are out sightseeing

1. For simple backpack security, always secure your bag when placing it down, such as in airports, on trains and in restaurants. This could be as simple as placing the strap around the leg of a chair, or locking it to a table.
2. Don’t store your wallet or your smartphone in your back pocket – this is a prime target for pickpockets.
3. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at busy tourist attractions, on public transport, at night and in restaurants. Read the common pickpocket techniques below.
4. Don’t leave your bag unattended.
5. In busy markets or on crowded public transport, bring your backpack around and wear it on the front. Not so cool, but safe.
6. Don’t leave your smartphone on the restaurant table or have it out when waiting for a train or bus.
7. Keep DSLR cameras out of sight. When using them, use a cross body strap like this one to secure them to your body.

Common Pickpocket Techniques

Here are some of the most common pickpocket techniques to be aware of when you travel or commute.

Distraction

Pickpockets will often work in groups, with one distracting you with a question or asking for directions.

Meanwhile their partner is removing items from your bag. Bring your bag close and stay alert when helping others.

Smartphone Grab

Phones left on tables at outdoor tables in restaurants are a common target for pickpockets. Keep it out of sight.

Bag or Pocket Slash

It isn’t common, but sometimes a pickpocket will slash your bag (or even your back pocket) without you noticing and remove items from your bag.

Busy markets, street performances and crowded public transport are common places for this to occur. Bring your backpack to the front when in crowded places.

Raid Luggage On Buses

In countries where luggage is stored under or on top of the bus, pickpockets have the opportunity to rifle through the bags at bus stops and stations.

Do not store valuables in stowed luggage and ensure your luggage is locked. Also keep an eye on luggage being removed from the bus at each stop.

Crowded Areas

This is one of the most common locations for pickpockets to work. Busy and crowded metro stations, museums, trains and bus stops are common places for thefts to occur.

Be aware of your surroundings, secure your bags and ensure your travel bags are locked when traveling on public transport. Always hold them close to you.

Offers Of Help

Pickpockets often offer to help with carrying luggage, buying tickets and giving directions.

While you don’t want to suspect everyone who is helpful of being a pickpocket, be aware of your surroundings if you are offered help by a stranger.

Are Anti Theft Backpacks Worth The Money?

Theft proof luggage can cost more than a regular travel backpack, but losing your wallet, camera, or passport will cost a whole lot more.

Plus, who wants the hassle of trying to replace these items when you are on vacation?

Having peace of mind that your belongings are safe in anti theft luggage is a small price to pay when you travel.

How Do Anti-Theft Backpacks Work?

There are many different security features on anti-theft backpacks aimed at deterring pickpockets and making it more difficult for thieves to steal your belongings from your backpack when traveling.

Common anti-theft features include lockable zippers, slash proof mesh embedded in the pack fabric, tether straps to secure your bag, hidden zippers and secret internal pockets.

What Is The Best Anti Theft Backpack?

The best theft proof backpacks for you will depend on your individual travel and security needs.

Backpacks with a combination of security features such as slash proof mesh, lockable zippers and locking cables are a great option for deterringn thieves.

Pacsafe and Travelon are two of the best anti theft backpack brands and we recommend several of their bags in this list.

If you are still unsure, here are our top three picks:

• Best secure backpacks for travel: Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450
• Best stylish anti theft backpack for ladies: Travelon Classic Antitheft bag
• Best travel backpack for Europe (anti theft carryon): Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

Before You Go

If you are planning a longer trip, see our travel gear essentials here.

Or if you are looking for gift ideas, see our road trip gift guide, gift ideas for RV owners and the best gifts for kids reviews.

All our recommended travel gear articles can be found here.

More Travel Guides

• Guide to Europe by Campervan
• South Africa in 2 Weeks – Road Trip Itinerary
• Exploring Bali off the Beaten Track

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