For any traveler, safety is a primary concern. Let’s face it; even seasoned travelers can be vulnerable to theft. This is why a good anti-theft backpack is one of the best travel accessories you can invest in.
Theft is the last thing you want when enjoying your trip, but strange surroundings, travel fatigue, crowded situations, or just carelessness can put our belongings at risk.
Thankfully, there is now an extensive range of anti-theft bags on the market. Bags like an anti-theft backpack are designed to relieve stress by keeping your stuff safe while you travel.
You Might Also Like: See our Best Smart Tags and Luggage Trackers guide, so you never worry about lost luggage or stolen bags.
We looked at the best anti-theft handbags for women here. But what are the best anti-theft backpacks? And when looking for a traveling backpack, are anti-theft bags worth the money?
Looking for More Than Just an Anti Theft Backpack?
See our Complete Guide to Anti Theft Travel Gear for More Great Safe Travel Products & Safe Travel Tips.
If you prefer a sling bag, we’ve got the Best Sling Backpacks, all with anti-theft features and wheeled underseat luggage that helps you beat additional carry on luggage charges.
The Best Anti Theft Travel Backpacks Comparison Guide
We looked at the ever-growing range of secure backpacks on the market to see which were the best secure travel backpacks, from handy anti-theft daypacks and 30-liter packs to large 65-liter anti-theft travel backpacks.
There are plenty of innovative and stylish backpacks, loaded with cool backpack features such as charging ports and headphone interface but not all of them cut it when it comes to being a secure backpack.
We included all the top brand backpacks and chose only bags with the best anti-theft security features and technology, as well as great design with the practicality of travel in mind. These bags are so much more than just backpacks with secret pockets.
Let’s have a look at the top theft-proof backpacks for travel.
You can read a more in-depth review of each backpack below.
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Top | Travelon Origin Small Anti-Theft Backpack Modern design with the Travelon anti theft system. | Check Price |
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Top | Travelon Urban Anti Theft Backpack Clean, modern design - practical and stylish. | Check Price |
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Top | Pacsafe Metrosafe 15 ltr Anti-Theft Travel Backpack The low key look won't attract attention. | Check Price |
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Top | XD Design Bobby Original Anti-Theft backpack Popular modern design. | Check Price |
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Top | Pacsafe Slingsafe LX400 Anti-Theft Backpack Two in one backpack/crossbody bag. | Check Price |
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Top | KOPACK Waterproof Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack Scan Smart Checkpoint Friendly. | Check Price |
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Top | Travelon Anti-Theft Active Daypack All anti theft features. Meets airline carry on size. | Check Price |
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Top | Pacsafe 15 Liter Venturesafe Anti-Theft Daypack All anti theft features. | Check Price |
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Top | Pacsafe 25 Liter Venturesafe Anti Theft Travel Backpack All anti theft features. | Check Price |
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Top | Pacsafe Vibe 40 Liter Anti Theft Carry-On Backpack/Travel Bag All anti theft features. | Check Price |
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Top | Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP65 Anti-Theft Travel Backpack Ergonomic, adjustable design. Large (65 litres) | Check Price |
Read our comprehensive Buying Guide to the Best Pickpocket Proof Clothing for Travel for safe and stylish travel wear.
Found a great anti-theft bag but still want additional backpack locks?
Read our Guide to Buying the Best Luggage Locks, Luggage Straps & Cables
See Below for Additional Tips on Safe Travel and Keeping Your Belongings Safe
Anti-Theft Backpacks for Travel Reviews
We’ve reviewed some of the best anti-theft backpacks on the market. We have chosen these backpacks based on the following criteria:
- Quality anti-theft features.
- Bestsellers and average ratings.
- Design and functionality, including the versatility of design.
- Reputable manufacturers of anti-theft travel gear.
Travelon Origin Small Anti Theft Backpack
- Size: Small (33 x 22 x 13 cm)
- Fits Devices: Up to 11″
- Available in Driftwood and Black
This small anti-theft backpack ticks all the boxes from Travelon’s new anti-theft backpack range. A modern design backed by modern philosophy. This backpack is designed with the traveler in mind but also the environment. We like this line so much that we also included the small version in our stylish ladies’ anti-theft backpack reviews and the stylish waist pack in our best anti theft fanny pack reviews – yes, they’re back in fashion.
Thoughtful design offers modern functionality with all the best anti theft features you expect from Travelon, including a slash-resistant body, steel cable embedded strap, locking compartments, and RFID identity theft protection.
Besides a clean, modern anti-theft design, this anti-theft backpack stands out because of its sustainable design and intelligent antimicrobial technology.
The Origin backpack is constructed with recycled water bottles diverted from oceans and streams; the bag’s lifespan is doubled while the environmental impact is halved. The result is a lighter, more durable bag while reducing CO2 emissions and carbon footprint by 45-50%.
The recycled fabric is also infused with Silvadur antimicrobial technology by DuPont. This intelligent antimicrobial technology provides a wearable safeguard preventing the spread of microorganisms in the fabric.
Key Features
- Made with certified recycled RPET environmentally sustainable materials.
- Fabric is infused with intelligent Antimicrobial Protection – Silvadur by DuPont
- Anti-Theft security system including:
- Slash-resistant body, slash-resistant strap, locking compartments, and RFID identity theft protection.
- Adjustable padded straps.
- Comfortable padded back panel.
- Roomy main compartment with zippered pocket.
- Padded tablet sleeve for devices up to 11″ x 9″.
- Organization panel, zippered pocket and tethered key clip.
- Secure front flap covered zippered pocket
- Quick grab carry handles with secure wrap attachment.
From the same Travelon Origin Anti-theft backpack range.
- Size: Medium (42 x 32 x 20 cm)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 15.6″ and tablet up to 10″
- Available in Black and Grey.
We like this backpack firstly because it is made by Travelon, who has a solid reputation for producing quality anti-theft travel gear. It is also one of the best carry-on backpacks for so many styles of travelers.
The stand out on this one is the design. This Travelon anti theft backpack has a more clean, modern design, moving away from the traditional travel-style backpack.
Probably more suited to the business traveler looking for a slim business laptop backpack or someone who needs to carry their tech, this backpack is practical, stylish, and loaded with smart anti-theft features.
KEY FEATURES
- Slash-resistant body panels.
- Adjustable cut-resistant, shoulder straps that can be secured to a stationary object to prevent a grab and go theft.
- Low profile secure zipper on the main compartment for extra security.
- Hidden locking compartments and zip pockets.
- Secret RFID blocking pocket on the shoulder strap.
- Padded pocket for a 15.6″ laptop and separate pocket for a tablet up to 10″.
- Drop pockets for cables and other devices.
- Air mesh back panel and backpack straps are cool and comfortable to wear
- Water and dirt resistant fabric
- Add-a-bag strap allows the backpack to slide over the handle of wheeled luggage
- Side water bottle pocket
- Size: Small (15 litres)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 13″ and iPad
- Available in 5 Colours.
This pack is a tried and true travel design, a great all-around anti-theft daypack. It’s very lightweight, has loads of pockets, yet is not overly large.
The interior has a sleeve for a 13 “laptop that could also be used as a tablet sleeve, and the bag is well padded so that electronics are protected, including cameras and tablets. The back is padded, so objects won’t stick into you, although it does not have a ventilation layer.
This backpack is perfect for city touring, an alternative to carrying a purse, especially on a plane or just a daily commuter bag. The classic design is more stylish than a standard travel backpack, so it will work for all travel occasions.
Two outer water bottle pockets allow for either two water bottles or a bottle and umbrella. And, of course, being Pacsafe, it has all the best anti-theft features.
KEY FEATURES
- The fabric is embedded with lightweight stainless steel wire mesh to protect against slash-and-run theft.
- Security clip and smart zipper security provide multiple layers of protection.
- Lockdown points for zippers to help prevent pickpockets.
- RFIDsafe blocking to protect IDs and credit cards from hacker scanning.
- Internal attachment point for wallets and keys.
- Size: Small (13 liters)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 15.6″ and iPad
- Available in Black, Red, Blue, and Grey
One of the original anti-theft backpacks, the Bobby backpack, is a popular, reputable brand in the anti-theft bag market. However, we feel it lacks some anti-theft features of Pacsafe and Travelon bags.
It is made with anti-shock foam, several protective layers, and a cut-proof PP Protection board, making it impossible to cut through the backpack. The entire bag is water-repellent which would be very attractive to tech owners.
Hidden zippers make it impossible to enter the bag while wearing it. Three hidden pockets on the sides and back are accessible for you during use but impossible for thieves to see or access. Perfect for your phone, wallet, or passport.
A USB charging anti-theft backpack, the USB charging port is conveniently integrated into the side of the backpack, a popular feature for travelers. Reflective stripes on the front, top, and shoulder straps keep you safe at night with 360 degrees of visibility.
The backpack is designed to relieve the pressure on the spine and lifts the weight off your shoulders by an extra 20%. There is a luggage strap on the back to fit the Bobby over your suitcase handle while you travel, which we love.
Features
- Cut-proof backpack design
- Hidden zipper and secret pockets.
- An integrated USB port for charging
- Shockproof storage design
- Illuminating safety strips
- Water repellent fabric
- Ergonomic weight balance design
Cons
- It doesn’t have locking zippers
- Straps do not have cut-proof reinforcement
- No locking mechanism for attaching to a fixed structure
- No RFID pockets
- Size: Medium (20 liters)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 15″ and tablet.
- Available in 5 colors and designs.
We love this backpack for its sheer versatility for travel. It’s also loaded with all the anti-theft features you want in a theft-proof travel backpack.
A two-in-one backpack with anti-theft features. The detachable front pocket transforms into an anti-theft crossbody shoulder bag with the included strap, enabling you to downsize and carry the essentials when you don’t need the whole backpack.
The backpack laptop compartment can hold a 15″ laptop with plenty of room for all your other essentials. An excellent backpack for both travel and everyday use.
Features
- Two-in-one backpack with a detachable anti-theft crossbody bag.
- Embedded with stainless steel wire mesh to protect from a quick slash-and-run theft.
- Dual-release security buckles to secure the bag to a fixed structure.
- Ultra-strong wire-imbedded Dyneema webbing straps help prevent cut-and-run theft.
- RFID safe blocking pocket to prevent data theft.
- Smart zipper security to prevent pickpockets.
- Padded sleeve for up to 15″ laptop.
- Size: Medium
- Fits Laptop: Up to 17″
- Available in Grey
This anti-theft backpack by Kopack has a unique strap design that is connected to give you extra support when wearing this backpack.
It’s stylish, lightweight, and very organized.
Two features we like in a travel backpack is the luggage strap at the back for sliding onto your luggage handle. The other is this bag flips right open for TSA/ Airport security inspection, making it one of the best computer backpacks on the market. You don’t have to remove all your electronics at airport security which is a big win. You would be surprised how many things get stolen at airport screening points.
The Kopack is an excellent anti-theft backpack for both everyday commuting and travel. Although, like Bobby, it lacks some of the more robust anti-theft features you might want for certain types of travel.
Features
- Scan Smart Checkpoint Friendly – fully opens for TSA / Security inspection.
- Hidden zippers to deter pickpockets.
- Tear-resistant durable nylon fabric, not anti-slash.
- Waterproof – Built-in Rain Cover.
- USB Charging Port
- It comes in two sizes
- Shockproof compartment for electronics
- Breathable air mesh back panel
- Lacks some anti-theft features.
- Size: Medium
- Fits Laptop: Up to 17″
Cons
- Fabric is tear-proof, not anti-slash.
- Doesn’t have locking zippers.
- Straps do not have cut-proof reinforcement.
- No locking mechanism for attaching to a fixed structure.
- No RFID pockets.
Travelon Anti Theft Active Backpack Carry-on
- Size: Medium (approx 32 liters 14″x21″x7″)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 15.6″ and iPad or tablet.
- Available in Black, Blue, and Teal
If you want to buy a good anti-theft carry-on bag, this is a no-nonsense lightweight bag that ticks all the boxes.
While it is no-nonsense, it has all the required anti-theft features and is roomy enough if you want to travel light with only one bag.
The bag can be carried in three ways: as a backpack, top handle, or side handle and meets airline carry-on requirements.
Perfect for a carry-on bag or active outdoor adventure travel.
Features
- Slash-resistant construction.
- Slash-resistant, adjustable straps.
- Locking zippers.
- Front zippered pocket and side pocket.
- Large RFID blocking card and passport slots.
- Reflective printing for safety day and night.
- Water and stain-resistant.
- Two padded pockets – one for a laptop to 15.6” and one for an iPad or tablet.
- Roomy main compartment with zippered mesh pocket and hold-down straps for garments/clothing.
- Tethered key clip with LED light.
- Air mesh padded back panel and air mesh backpack straps for comfort.
- Add a bag strap, top grab handle, and sternum strap.
- Size: Medium (15 liters)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 13″ (or 3L hydration pack)
- Available in Black and Blue
A lightweight, durable daypack with anti-theft features, this bag is ideal for hiking, travel, daily commuting, and as a handy carry-on.
The Venturesafe 15L features a sternum strap and two side stretch pockets that accommodate water bottles. The internal protective sleeve fits a 13-inch laptop or 3-litre hydration pack.
Much like the previous carry on bags, this is a no-nonsense daypack designed for ease of use, but with all the anti-theft features you would want for travel.
Features
- Slash guard stainless steel wire mesh embedded into fabric helps protect against slash & run theft.
- Smart locking zips.
- Adjustable wire-reinforced slash guard strap helps prevent cut & run theft; Turn and lock security hooks attach the strap to a secure fixture.
- RFIDsafe blocking pocket.
- Padded sleeve for 13-inch laptop or 3-litre hydration pack.
- Moulded foam back support.
- Size: Large (25 litres)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 15″ (or 3L hydration pack)
- Available in Black and Blue
A larger version of the Pacsafe Venturesafe 15L GII Anti-Theft Daypack. With all the same features but larger capacity – 25-liter volume | Dimensions: 19.7 x 11.4 x 7.9 in / 50 x 29 x20 cm.
Depending on the size of daypack you need, either of these bags tick boxes for design and anti-theft features.
Features
- Slash guard stainless steel wire mesh embedded into fabric helps protect against slash & run theft.
- Smart locking zips.
- Adjustable wire-reinforced slash guard strap helps prevent cut & run theft; Turn and lock security hooks attach the strap to a secure fixture.
- RFIDsafe blocking pocket.
- Padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop or 3-litre hydration pack.
- Moulded foam back support.
Large Anti-Theft Backpacks
- Size: Large (40 litres)
- Fits Laptop: Up to 15″ laptop sleeve.
- Available in Black, Blue and Camo Print
Sleek, comfortable, and secure 40-litre backpack with inbuilt anti-theft technologies. Perfect for short trips, backpacking travel, weekends away or as a carry on bag.
Opens like a suitcase so is easy access for clothing etc. The bag can be carried three ways: as a backpack, top handle or side handle and meets airline carry on requirements.
Perfect for the person who wants to travel light.
There are no RFID pockets but with a bag this size, good chance you won’t be keeping valuable documents or cards in it.
Features
- Lightweight, hidden slash guard stainless steel wire mesh embedded into the fabric.
- Stainless steel slash guard shoulder straps.
- Smart zippers that interlock and secured to the Roobar Sports locking system.
- PopNLock security clip allows you to attach your bag to a secure fixture.
- Padded 15-inch laptop-compatible sleeve.
- Padded adjustable shoulder straps that can tuck away, padded waist and sternum straps.
- Three-way carries system.
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP65 Anti Theft Travel Backpack
- Size: Large (65 litres)
- Available in Black Only
The 65-litre anti-theft Pacsafe Venturesafe backpack is perfect for the adventure traveller or someone who wants to travel light and be mobile.
This spacious and secure backpack has all the right anti-theft features including slash guard material, ToughZip technology which has puncture-resistant double-layer zippers.
The Roobar Locking System secures the interlocking zippers from both compartments in one place, and a lockdown point for the 3mm stainless steel locking cable that is included with the bag to secure it to a fixture, essentially turning your pack into a portable safe.
The main compartment opens like a suitcase for easy access and has internal compression straps to pack gear tightly and maximise space with plenty of organisational pockets.
There are padded shoulder straps and waist strap with an ergonomic aluminium frame which makes carrying a heavy load balanced and comfortable.
The adjustable back harness can be adjusted to six height settings making finding the perfect fit easy for any body size. External compression straps keep the bag compact for transit.
The size of this bag will meet some airlines carry on regulations but not all.
Features
- Can be worn in two different ways.
- Has an adjustable back harness system.
- The ergonomic, internal frame offers increased balance and support.
- Adjustable, padded hip belt for stability and weight distribution.
- Zip-away shoulder straps and hip belt to protect straps in transit.
- External attachment points for items such as jackets, yoga mats, or sleeping bags.
- External and internal compression straps to keep gear in place.
- Sternum strap.
- Internal attachment point for wallets and keys.
- Water bottle pocket.
- Anti-theft features including:
- Slash-Proof construction.
- Locking Compartments.
- Puncture-proof zips.
- Interlocking zippers.
- Lockdown point with an additional 3mm stainless locking cable.
Why Choose an Anti Theft Backpack for Travel?
Backpacks make good sense for travel, whether it’s a day pack or a carry on travel backpack for single bag travel. They’re comfortable when carrying heavier loads and convenient for keeping our hands free when sightseeing.
Although where backpacks win on design, they can fall down on the security front.
While ladies handbags may be prime targets for thieves, backpacks can be easy pickings for pickpockets. It’s hard to protect your belongings when you can’t keep your eye on them at all times, especially in a crowd.
This is where a good quality theft proof backpack designed with travel in mind comes into its own. More than just a backpack with a lock, a good anti-theft traveling pack addresses all of the safety concerns travellers face every day.
What Features Should Good Anti-Theft Backpacks Have?
Security, Slash Proof backpack and Anti-Theft Design – Reasons why Anti-Theft Backpacks are Worth the Money.
Good anti-theft bags are much more than just a backpack with hidden pockets or include an additional, separate backpack lock.
As a minimum, a good anti-theft bag should have most, if not all of these features:
- RFID Blocking – Smart RFID protected compartments to block scanners and prevent identity theft or electronic pickpockets.
- Quality Lockable Zippers and Locking Features – Lockable backpack, lockable zips and compartments to prevent pickpockets.
- Secret Pockets & Hidden Compartments – Internal, hard to access hidden pockets and secret compartments for valuables such as passports or cash.
- Anti slash Fabric Construction – Lightweight anti-slash fabric/panels on a cut-proof backpack to prevent thieves from slashing the bag.
- Reinforced Steel Straps – Straps should have some reinforcement to prevent thieves from slashing the strap and running away with your bag.
- Locking mechanisms for securing the bag to immovable objects.
Choosing The Right Travel Backpack
When comparing anti-theft travel backpacks currently on the market, think about the type of trip you are taking and the most practical backpack for you.
The same applies even if you are looking for an everyday anti-theft commuter backpack for college or work. Or if it is possible to choose an anti-theft backpack that will work for both travel and everyday use.
Function
Obviously, the bag needs to be functional as well as safe. Ask yourself:
- Does it have all the compartments you require, such as padded laptop sleeves or padded shoulder straps for comfort?
- If it is a large pack, can it be transformed from a backpack into a bag thanks to the handle on top?
- Do you need to have the capability to carry a water bottle or hydration (liquid) pack for hiking?
Make sure you think about how versatile your pack needs to be for the type of travel you are doing.
Construction and Material
Always look for a sturdy yet lightweight construction. You don’t want a security backpack to be too heavy before you have even put anything in it.
Do you need a water-resistant bag? If so, make sure you choose a high-quality, water-resistant material. Some claim to be water-resistant and are anything but even in a light drizzle.
And, of course, when considering construction and fabric, we would always recommend opting for a slash-proof backpack.
Size
Decide what you need to carry with regard to the size you require. If you only need a day pack, think carefully about the size. You don’t want to be carrying around unnecessary weight. It’s too easy to overload a bag if it is larger than you need.
If you are looking for a large backpack as your primary luggage, again, think about how much you can reasonably carry. Which leads us to comfort.
Comfort
Does the pack have the required padding on the shoulder straps to be comfortable all day? Will it be comfortable on your back with regards to breathability and lumbar support? If it is a larger pack, does it have a padded waist and sternum straps to help with the load? Does it come with a water bottle pocket?
Style
Last but not least – style. Nobody wants to commit to a bag they don’t like, so it should look good. Also, style goes a long way to keeping you safe as well. If your daypack screams traveller or tourist, you are more likely to be targeted by thieves.
Blending in is a significant aspect of safe travel. A backpack that looks more like an everyday backpack as opposed to a “travel” backpack will be less noticeable or enticing. Ladies can find a range of stylish anti-theft backpacks designed specifically for women here.
Additional Tips on Safe Travel and Keeping Your Belongings Safe
- Remember, while an anti-theft travel backpack is an excellent precaution against theft while you travel, it is not a complete guarantee. It will, however, significantly improve your chances and at least give you some peace of mind.
- People will more often have individual items stolen from inside a bag or from their person than having an entire bag taken. Having a good anti theft backpack will make it harder for thieves to succeed. However, no matter how good the anti-theft features, it is still wise to keep valuables in internal pockets.
- Ultimately, the traveller is responsible for their safety so, always be cautious with your personal belongings and be vigilant while you travel, especially in crowded areas to avoid becoming a target of crime.
- Bags should never be left unattended.
- When using a backpack especially, make sure the straps are firmly fitted, and all openings are securely fastened.
Staying safe when you travel is as much about how you act and how you dress as the gear you take with you.
Read our Complete Guide on How to Dress Like a Local When You Travel.
Blending in can go a long way to enhancing your experience and ensuring you don’t stand out as a target