The Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags of 2025

Investing in an anti-theft travel bag is always a good idea for travelers, whether you’re backpacking across Asia or joining a yoga retreat at a villa in Italy. 

Anti-theft bags differ from regular bags in design—most of the compartments are zippered and the fabric is typically durable, lightweight, and high-performance. 

Some of the best and most common anti-theft bag features include anti-slash materials, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking panels that prevent skimming, a type of digital fraud. 

As someone who travels for a living, I reach for the Travelon anti-theft messenger bag for many city trips. With a spacious interior that fits all of my daily essentials, including a separate compartment for a water bottle and plenty of built-in safety features, this bag is worthy of our top spot. Here are all the anti-theft bags that impressed us the most. 

The best anti-theft bags for travel 

When shopping for anti-theft bags, look for hidden compartments, lockable zippers, RFID-blocking panels, and slash-resistant straps and materials, such as heavy-weight nylon. Crossbody styles are generally considered safer than shoulder styles. As travelers, we also prefer anti-theft travel bags with good organization and a comfortable fit. Read on for all the details about our top choices. 

Why we like it: This Travelon messenger has a trusted following among frequent travelers. It has a crossbody design and an adjustable strap for carrying closer to your body. 

The bag (including the strap) is made to resist cuts, with 900-denier nylon—one of the thickest fabric weaves. We also like that the zippers lock and that the pockets are made with RFID-blocking materials for storing credit cards and passports. Additionally, it has a lockdown strap that you can use to secure the bag to a chair or a table in a restaurant. 

This bag has great organizational features too. The side mesh water bottle pocket is a bonus, while the interior is surprisingly spacious. You can even fit a packable puffer jacket or a cotton hoodie. 

Keep in mind: This bag is not water-resistant, however, you can store valuables in a waterproof case inside the bag. 

Product details: Dimensions: 9 x 12.5 x 3.5 in. | Weight: 1.1 lbs. | Material: 900D nylon, polyester | RFID: Yes | Volume: 4.5L 

Why we like it: At under $30, this backpack has some great anti-theft and organizational features for travelers. The main compartment closes with metal zippers and a lock protected by a three-digit password. The second front pocket closes with a duo of zippers that you can secure with zipper clips to prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, the backpack is made from tear-resistant material, according to the company. 

This backpack has a rather classic, even minimalist look. Inside, travelers find plenty of pockets, zippered compartments, and a padded laptop slot. A hidden slide pocket on the back lets you access things without having to open the main compartment. We also love the luggage strap. 

Keep in mind: While this backpack has a few useful anti-theft features, it doesn’t include RFID-blocking pockets to protect against skimming. 

Product details: Dimensions: 5 x 19 x 12 in. | Weight: 1.6 lbs. | Material: Nylon and polyester | RFID: No | Volume: 21L 

Why we like it: A crossbody is generally considered the safest anti-theft bag style. This one comes with additional features designed for extra security. 

Both the exterior and the lining have panels made of stainless-steel wire mesh that the company says resists cuts. The adjustable strap is reinforced with wire. The main compartment has one zippered pocket and room for essentials. You can also fit a small camera or a seven-inch tablet in the padded sleeve. The zippers have hooks made to lock onto the front metal loop. If you’re sitting down at a restaurant or a coffee shop, you can attach the bag to your chair. 

Keep in mind: One reviewer says frequently locking and unlocking the front zippers can be a hassle. 

Product details: Dimensions: 2.6 x 8.3 x 6.1 in. | Weight: 0.5 lbs. | Material: Recycled polyester and nylon | RFID: Yes | Volume: 2.4L   

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Why we like it: If you need a formal purse for dinners and special events that blends form and function, this crossbody by Arden Cove fits the bill. It’s an elegant accessory that comes in a variety of color combinations, plus anti-theft features. 

The body is made from smooth, waterproof nylon that, on the inside, is fully lined with slash-resistant material. It has excellent organization with separate RFID-blocking card and cash slots in the front pocket. Additionally, it has a roomy main compartment with two side pockets for a smartphone and a passport. Both compartments close with locking zippers. 

We like that you can personalize this bag with different straps, including chains, designed to resist cuts. Studs on the bottom are a thoughtful touch for protection against wear and tear. 

Keep in mind: This purse has enough space for smaller daily essentials, but you may need a larger bag for bulkier items. 

Product details: Dimensions: 3.5 x 8.5 x 6.5 in. | Weight: 1.2 lbs. | Material: Nylon and vegan leather | RFID: Yes | Volume: 1.9L 

Why we like it: Compact and lightweight for everyday use, this water-resistant Baggallini backpack has plenty of anti-theft features for travel. The straps and interior panels are made to resist cuts, while a zippered back pocket is constructed of RFID-blocking material. The main compartment closes with locking zippers. 

Storage capacity is one of this backpack’s best features. Travelers find multiple card slots as well as smartphone and tablet pockets in both the main compartment and the back pocket. Additionally, there are two side pockets for water bottles. 

Keep in mind: This backpack is not large enough to fit a laptop. The zippers on the front pockets do not lock. 

Product details: Dimensions: 10 x 13 x 3.5 in. | Weight: 1.1 lbs. | Material: N/A | RFID: Yes | Volume: 7.5L 

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Why we like it: Waist or hip packs can be good anti-theft options because they fit close to the body and can be worn multiple ways, even under a coat. 

This Pacsafe sling pack has a water-resistant recycled polyester exterior and has an RFID-blocking pocket. The case is enhanced with a strap designed to resist cuts and a double-locking buckle. 

Inside, the sling pack has a small wall pocket and a roomy main compartment that can fit essentials. For extra security, you can lock the zippers in place using the clip on the sling’s left side. 

Keep in mind: This sling pack fits small everyday essentials. There is not much internal organization to keep your belongings in order. 

Product details: Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.1 x 3.4 in. | Weight: 0.4 lbs. | Material: Recycled polyester | RFID: Yes | Volume: 2.5L 

Why we like it: This sling bag is a good option for travelers looking for something smaller than a backpack but larger than a hip pack. It weighs less than a pound and has a roomy interior. You can easily fit a tablet or a book inside, as well as other daily essentials and travel documents. There is an RFID-blocking compartment and multiple zippered pockets. 

Additionally, the company says the polyester material is reinforced with slash-resistant panels. The strap is made with two sets of cables and padding for comfort. We like that all the exterior zippers lock. This sling bag also has a locking system that secures to furniture. 

Keep in mind: The sling bag is not entirely RFID-blocking. 

Product details: Dimensions: 7 x 14 x 4 in. | Weight: 0.9 lbs. | Material: Polyester | RFID: Yes | Volume: 5.5 lbs.  

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Why we like it: Neck wallets—flat pouches with an adjustable cord you can wear under clothing—have become popular in recent years. This one is large enough to fit a passport, some cash, and credit cards, without feeling too bulky. 

The wallet is made from RFID-blocking nylon and has an adjustable neck strap. It has one main compartment separated into two with a flap Velcro closure. 

Keep in mind: This wallet has a regular Velcro closure and the strap is not cut-resistant. 

Product details: Dimensions: 7 x 5 in. | Weight: 1 oz. | Material: Nylon | RFID: Yes | Volume: N/A   

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How we chose the best anti-theft travel bags 

In addition to our own experience as travel journalists and expert advice, we looked at these main factors when evaluating the products on our list: 

• Third-party reviews: We considered feedback and online reviews from customers for each product on our list to ensure consistent high-quality and reliability. 

• Anti-theft features: For each of our products, we looked into the number and efficacy of its anti-theft features, such as hidden compartments, lockable zippers, RFID-blocking panels, slash-resistant straps and materials, etc. 

• Material: We paid special attention to the fabric, focusing on materials designed to be difficult to cut, such as high-weave nylons, as well as RFID-blocking layers to prevent digital theft. 

• Size and weight: Luggage and travel bags must be comfortable and functional regardless of extra features, which is why we also considered each product’s capacity and dimensions. 

• Storage: Anti-theft bags should help you stay organized while traveling. We chose travel bags with plenty of card slots, zippered pockets, and specialty compartments to maximize storage. 

• Overall style: Form and function go hand in hand, and we didn’t sacrifice one for the other. All products on our list are as aesthetically appealing as they are functional, and most come in a variety of colorways. 

Tips for buying an anti-theft travel bag   

Lifestyle and travel habits 

When shopping for an anti-theft travel bag, it can help to consider the types of trips you most often take and your lifestyle, says Alicia Skehan, the designer for Baggallini. For example, if you often travel by airplane, consider investing in a larger anti-theft backpack that can serve as a carry-on, plus a smaller crossbody bag you can use at your destination.   

Kind of protection 

Locking zippers and slash-resistant materials don’t add bulk or weight, so consider a bag with various anti-theft features. Keep in mind that not all may be useful—or convenient—for every traveler. 

For some, locking zippers and password-protected padlocks may be inconvenient and cumbersome. If that’s the case, a bag with multiple compartments, with at least one that closes using a standard zipper, may be a better option. 

The structure or design may help too. A crossbody or sling bag secured to the front of your body or a neck wallet may help provide peace of mind. At minimum, choose an anti-theft bag with RFID-blocking pockets. 

Opt out of leather 

When it comes to anti-theft travel bags, leather lacks the functionality of materials like nylon and polyester, says Marcus Johnsson, the Stockholm, Sweden-based vice president of design and marketing at Pacsafe. Synthetic fabrics are water-resistant, lightweight, and easy to clean.  

To make them extra-strong, anti-theft bags are usually made from high-density polyester and nylon. A stainless steel mesh lining is then sandwiched between the exterior and the lining for added protection. In a similar fashion, stainless steel cables covered in fabric are used to reinforce straps. 

Travel itinerary 

Activities can help determine the security features you need in a travel bag. For example, if you’re heading to a city, shop for a bag with a strap that locks to a fixed object, such as a chair or a table in busy restaurants or coffee shops. 

If you’re planning to stay at hostels or visit the beach, you may want to invest in an anti-theft bag that has security features to protect the bag itself. For these types of bags, a padlock would be more appropriate than lockable zippers.   

Style and function 

Johnsson advises against choosing an anti-theft bag that makes you feel “like you’re walking around with a piece of function.” Instead, opt for a style that’s just as visually appealing as it is practical, he says. The Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody is a great stylish choice. 

Tracking devices 

While some large suitcases feature built-in tracking technology, most handbags and backpacks don’t. For extra peace of mind, you can add a tracking device, such as an Apple AirTag or a Tile device, to your bag, enabling you to locate your bag in case it’s stolen. 

Frequently asked questions 

Are anti-theft bags worth it? 

The U.S. Embassy in Paris reports that over 2,000 passports are stolen or lost in the City of Light each year, many resulting from pickpocketing operations in popular areas, museums, and subway and train stations. No travel gear is safe from theft. However, anti-theft travel bags may help reduce the chances of physical and digital theft, especially if used properly. Travelers should always be vigilant about protecting their belongings, no matter where they travel.   

What is the best bag not to get robbed? 

No bag can offer full protection against theft. However, an anti-theft bag with features such as hidden zippers, re-enforced and anti-slash straps, locks, and RFID-blocking pockets, can help deter thieves. 

What is the safest type of purse to travel with? 

A crossbody bag is generally considered one of the safest to travel with because it’s more difficult to snatch. Authorities suggest carrying your bag tightly under your arm to avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing. In addition to a crossbody, travelers can also try an anti-theft waist pack or a hip bag worn across the chest, with the buckle in the back. 

What is RFID? 

Certain credit cards, passports, and small devices use radio frequency identification, or RFID, a radio wave-based technology that identifies people, animals, and objects. They act as unique tags with stored information enabling you to do things like tap to pay for goods or scan your passport to get through airport security. Scammers and digital thieves use skimming devices to read the data stored in cards and passports. An RFID-blocking holder or purse can help protect against unauthorized access.