Whether commuting to work or travelling the world, safety is always a consideration, especially for female travellers and commuters.
Unfortunately, ladies’ bags are prime targets for pickpockets and scammers, which is why an anti-theft handbag or backpack is a sound investment. And, as these stylish women’s anti-theft backpacks show us, there’s no need to comprise on style.
Why Women Should Choose a Stylish Anti-theft Backpack
Most women love a stylish handbag, whether for day to day or travel. They also love a practical bag, especially for travel. When it comes to comfort and practicality, a trendy backpack is often the better choice.
A backpack will be easier on your back, especially when carrying a bit of weight for long periods. They also leave your hands free, making travel, sightseeing and day to day commuting so much easier.
Having a fashionable and cute anti-theft backpack will also help you stand out less like a tourist and blend in like a local when you travel, which can go a long way to keeping you safe. It’s no wonder I list anti-theft backpacks in my Guide to Women’s Travel Essentials.
Complete your travel look: Check out our top pick for women’s lightweight travel jackets and the best women’s travel pants that are comfortable and stylish.
Until recently, backpacks have always been considered easy targets by thieves. It’s hard to know if someone has unzipped your bag when you don’t have your eye or hand on it, especially in a crowd.
It’s one of the reasons I have always been a big advocate for a crossbody bag for travel – you can keep it close to you and your hand on it, especially in crowded situations. Crossbody sling backpacks are also good for this reason – you can swing them around to the front if you are concerned about pickpockets.
Thankfully, now, with advancements in anti-theft travel gear as far as technology and design in the backpack market, the backpack is no longer a prime target for pickpockets. Ladies can opt for practicality and comfort without the fear of being a target for thieves.
And, in a market previously aimed at men, There are now trendy backpacks for women with a choice of some seriously stylish anti-theft backpacks that add style to function.
Quick Guide: Compare the Best Stylish Anti Theft Backpacks for Women
See the full review of each bag below.
Image | Description | Buy |
---|---|---|
Travelon Origin Anti-Theft Backpack with SILVADUR Treatment | Check Price | |
Top Top | XD Design Elle Fashion Anti-Theft Backpack | Check Price |
Top Top | XD Design Elle Protective Backpack Blue (with SOS Alarm and App) | Check Price |
Top Top | PacSafe Women's Citysafe Anti Theft Backpack (Fits 16 inch MacBook Pro) | Check Price |
Top Top | PacSafe Women's Citysafe Anti Theft Convertible Backpack (Fits 10" Tablet) | Check Price |
Top Top | Pacsafe Stylesafe Sling Backpack | Check Price |
Top Top | Women Waterproof Anti-theft Rucksack & Shoulder Bag | Check Price |
Top Top | S-ZONE Soft Leather Anti-theft Rucksack & Shoulder Bag | Check Price |
Top Top | Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag | Check Price |
Top Top | Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack | Check Price |
Anti Theft Backpacks for Women Buying Guide and Tips
What is an Anti-theft Backpack?
An anti-theft backpack is a backpack designed principally for travellers with built-in features that prevent or deter theft. Security features to prevent thieves from stealing the contents of the backpack. Or succeeding in a grab and go robbery, commonly known as a bag snatch.
Anti theft technology is a concept that has caught on beyond the travel sphere. Anti-theft bags are now used widely for day to day use, especially for regular city commuters.
Stay Safe When You Travel: 10 Travel Safety Tips to Put in Place Before You Go.
Previously, safety and style rarely came together with anti theft bags – practicality and function mostly always won over style or fashion. And, most anti-theft backpacks were designed with men in mind.
Thankfully, several travel safe brands have stepped up to bring a female design element to anti theft women’s backpacks without scrimping on the core safety features.
We have put together this guide reviewing anti-theft backpacks for women that are secure, practical, and stylish.
What Features Should a Good, Stylish Anti-theft Backpack for Women Have?
When deciding on the best stylish anti-theft backpack, women should consider some of the following features and practicalities to choose an anti-theft backpack that is safe and suits both your style and lifestyle.
- Cut-proof or Slash-proof Backpack Material
One common method thieves use is cutting or slashing through the bags material in a crowded situation to get to your belongings. Some will even cut through the strap and run away with the entire bag.
A good anti-theft bag will have a tough outer shell and straps, preferably with cut-proof or slash-proof material to prevent this type of robbery. - Hidden/Locking Zippers
When selecting an anti-theft backpack, look for a bag that has sturdy zippers that are properly reinforced into the backpack’s material. The bag should also feature either lockable or hidden zippers for maximum anti-theft protection. Many will have both. - Secret Pockets
Secret pockets make it difficult for robbers to get to valuable items inside your backpack. Secret pockets are not just the internal pockets, they can also be external pockets that aren’t visible from outside, like on the shoulder straps, on the back or side of the backpack. External secret pockets should have hidden or anti-theft zipper mechanism. - RFID Blocking
Tech-savvy thieves can steal your credit card information, mobile phone information and other documents electronically. Anti-theft backpacks that use RFID (radio frequency identification) blocking materials (nickel or copper) block electromagnetic fields from being transmitted to or from your backpack.
Many good anti-theft backpacks will have RFID blocking pockets where you can store your cards, passport, or documents that carry electronic information.
Choosing the Right Anti-theft Backpack Purse
Having travelled full time for over five years, we know the importance of having a safe and lightweight backpack. But I also like to have versatile bags, especially for travel. This is why a good anti theft backpack should be both safe and stylish. Why carry two bags when I can have one that will cover me for all my travel situations?
We researched hundreds of products to select the most reliable and stylish anti-theft backpacks on the market. These selections are based on my experience as a female traveller who uses anti-theft backpacks and expects practicality and versatility in my travel gear.
We have selected these stylish anti-theft backpacks for women based on the following criteria:
Style: Because women shouldn’t have to compromise on style. A design that is not just practical but also stylish also makes it a much more versatile bag.
Comfort: The backpack should be lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods, even when fully loaded.
Durability: The fabric or material of the backpack must stand up to rough wear and constant use and still look good.
Anti-theft design: Consider the anti-theft features along with the design and style of the bag. Does it have the features you need along with a style you like? It won’t keep you safe if you don’t want to wear it.
Size: Consider carefully the size you need. Too large, and you could unnecessarily overload yourself just because you have space.
Weight: An empty bag shouldn’t weigh so much you blow your carry on allowance before you have everything you need in your bag.
Pocket arrangement: An ideal backpack should have multiple pockets for the proper organisation of travel essentials. But make sure external pockets have suitable theft deterrents.
The Best Women’s Anti Theft Backpack Reviews
Key Features
- Slash-resistant body
- Adjustable padded slash-resistant straps.
- Locking compartments.
- RFID identity theft protection.
- Made with environmentally sustainable materials.
- Fabric is infused with Intelligent Antimicrobial Protection.
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Roomy main compartment with internal zippered pocket.
- Padded tablet sleeve for devices up to 11″ x 9″.
- Secure front flap covered zippered pocket
- Quick grab carry handles with secure wrap attachment.
- Modern fashionable design.
From Travelon’s brand new anti-theft backpack range, this sleek, modern anti-theft backpack ticks all the boxes. In addition to thoughtful design, a sleek, stylish look and a complete suite of anti-theft features, the environment and health are also central to creating this backpack.
The Origin backpack is constructed with recycled water bottles diverted from oceans and streams. The result – 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.
This backpack has loads of internal space without being bulky and plenty of well-considered organisational pockets. In line with the minimalistic design, the Origin Anti Theft Backpack comes in two colour shades- Driftwood with black accents or all black. A perfect everyday backpack or daypack for travel. This line also has a very stylish anti-theft waist bag which we included in our Stylish Fanny Packs for Travel edition – there are some gorgeously versatile waist bags for ladies.
Pro: This bag has a sleek modern design that can work with lots of looks.
Con: It doesn’t have an external water bottle holder.
Anti-theft features:
- Slash-resistant body
- Slash-resistant straps.
- Locking compartments.
- RFID identity theft protection.
Other features:
- Adjustable padded straps.
- Padded back panel for extra comfort.
- Roomy main compartment with internal zippered pocket.
- Padded tablet sleeve for devices up to 11″ x 9″.
- Organisation panel
- Zippered pocket and tethered key clip and LED light.
- Secure front flap covered zippered pocket
- Quick grab carry handles with secure wrap attachment.
- Lightweight and streamlined design.
Size: Medium (33 x 22 x 13 cm), 8.5 L volume
Weight: 520 grams
Fabric: Made with sustainable-certified recycled RPET material which is infused with Silvadur intelligent antimicrobial protection.
Colours: Available in 2 colours DRiftwood with black accents and all black
Key Features
- Hidden zippers & pockets.
- Slash-proof material.
- Two hidden exterior compartments for cell phone, passport or other documents.
- Padded sleeve fits 9.7” tablet.
- Water-repellent material.
- Adjustable straps.
- Lightweight.
- Interior organiser panel
XD Design is a popular Dutch brand that has been manufacturing stylish anti-theft backpacks for five years. Their products are designed for people who don’t want to compromise on fashion and security.
We love this backpack not only because it looks great but also because it meets so much of our criteria – it is easy to carry, stylish with a sleek design, and a great backpack for travel. This backpack is a perfect blend of both fashion and theft-proof features.
Pro: It is designed to fit perfectly to the back, placing less pressure on the spine.
Con: The faux leather finish is not as durable for constant travel as maybe nylon or real leather.
Anti-theft features:
- Hidden, high-end YKK zippers.
- Strategically placed hidden pockets.
- Slash-proof material.
- Two exterior hidden compartments for cell phone, passport or other documents.
Other features:
- Padded tablet compartment for a 9.7” smart device.
- Water-repellent material.
- Adjustable straps.
- Elastic loops inside the main zipper for keeping a water bottle/ umbrella.
- Lightweight.
- Interior organiser panel with two zipper pockets and two slip pockets.
- Wide base.
Size: Medium (22 x 12 x 30 cm), 6.5 L volume
Weight: 650 grams
Fabric: Faux leather, protected with PP board as the inner layer
Colours: Available in 7 colours (anthracite, black, denim blue, light blue, light grey, mocha, pink)
XD Design Elle Protective Backpack (with SOS Alarm and App)
Studies show that 65% of all women have had to deal with harassment and 20% have been stalked or followed. The XD Design Elle Protective Backpack with SOS Alarm and App can help you feel more secure.
Key Features
- Hidden zippers & Pockets
- SOS alarm and Messaging app.
- Slash-proof material.
- Two exterior hidden pockets for cell phone and documents.
- Padded sleeve for a 9.7” smart device.
- Water-repellent material.
- Adjustable straps.
- Lightweight
This backpack is similar in design to the one listed above with all the anti theft features. However, the standout with this anti theft backpack is not just the stylish design, it also features SOS buttons and a messaging app button on the shoulder straps.
By pressing the SOS button twice, a loud alarm is triggered scaring the thief or the harasser. Which is why this backpack is also called as an Anti-Harassment Backpack for women.
By pressing the messaging app button twice, an SOS message with your current location is sent to a friend or family – whichever number you have registered with XD Design (up to 3 people).
Pro: The SOS alarm and messaging app features in the backpack makes it extra secure for women.
Con: Only comes in 2 colours.
Anti-theft features:
- Hidden, high-end YKK zippers.
- SOS alarm and Messaging app.
- Strategically placed hidden pockets.
- Slash-proof material.
- Two exterior hidden compartments for keeping a cell phone or passport or other documents.
Other features:
- Padded tablet compartment for a 9.7” smart device.
- Water-repellent material.
- Adjustable straps.
- Elastic loops inside the main zipper for keeping a water bottle/ umbrella.
- Lightweight.
- Interior organiser panel with two zipper pockets and two slip pockets.
- Wide base.
Size: Medium (28 x 17 x 36 cm).
Weight: 540 grams.
Fabric: Faux leather, protected with PP board as the inner layer.
Colours: Available in 2 colours (blue and black).
Key Features
- Cut-resistant material.
- RFID blocking compartment.
- Interlocking zippers.
- External pocket with safety zipper loop.
- Hidden pockets.
- Turn and lock security hooks to secure to table or chair.
- Large wire-framed bucket opening.
- Trolley snap to slide on luggage handle.
If you are looking for a bag that’s both stylish and functional then Pacsafe Citysafe CX anti-theft backpack is ideal for you. This backpack seems compact but is extremely spacious.
Other than Pacsafe’s sound reputation in producing anti theft bags, a feature in this stylish anti-theft backpack women love is the contrasting rose pink interior that makes it so easy to find all your belongings.
Pacsafe Citysafe CX anti-theft backpack for women also comes in a smaller 11 L size. The Citysafe CX 11 L has all the similar features minus the expandable side pockets and the trolley snap.
Anti-theft features:
- Cut-resistant material.
- RFID blocking compartment.
- Interlocking zippers.
- External pocket with a zipper that slides under a loop for extra-safety.
- Turn and lock security hooks on the shoulder strap to lock the backpack to a table/ chair.
- Wide wire-framed bucket opening.
Other features:
- Adjustable and padded shoulder straps.
- Strategically placed hidden pockets.
- Padded laptop compartment that fits 13” laptop.
- Water-repellent material.
- Lightweight.
- Expandable side pockets for water bottle or compact umbrella.
- Trolley snap at the back that fits on to a suitcase handle.
- Top carry haul handle.
Size: Medium (28 x 15 x 40 cm), 17 L volume
Weight: 700 grams
Fabric: 100% nylon with polyester lining
Colours: Available in 4 colours (blue, purple, econyl storm and blue)
Key Features
- Slash-proof material.
- Interlocking security zippers on the main compartment.
- RFID blocking compartment.
- Adjustable and slash-resistant shoulder straps.
- Detachable turn and lock strap to lock to secure fixture.
- Exterior pocket with safety loop for zipper.
- Two in one design – converts to a handbag.
- Lightweight.
- Padded sleeve fits 10” smart device.
- Water-repellent material.
Pacsafe’s best-selling stylish anti-theft backpack for women will take you from day to night. Ladies love this anti-theft backpack that converts effortlessly into a fashionable handbag. This ‘two in one’ travel bag is safe, stylish, practical for travel and incredibly versatile.
It fits a 10” tablet securely leaving enough room for a wallet, sunglasses, snacks, electronics, tissues, medicines, hand sanitizer, and a travel jacket. The inside lining of the bag is a lovely contrasting rose-colour which makes it easier to find things.
Pro: This stylish anti-theft backpack serves a dual purpose – converts effortlessly from a backpack to a stylish handbag.
Con: The straps slide around a little when in backpack mode.
Anti-theft features:
- Cut-proof material.
- Interlocking zippers for the main compartment.
- RFID blocking compartment at the back.
- Adjustable and cut-resistant shoulder straps.
- Detachable shoulder strap to lock it to secured fixture.
- Exterior pocket with zipper that slides under a loop for extra-safety.
Other features:
- Multiple pockets for better organization.
- Convertible into a handbag.
- Lightweight.
- Padded tablet compartment that fits 10” smart device.
- Water-repellent material.
Size: Medium (26 x 12 x 34 cm), 8 L volume.
Weight: 450 grams.
Fabric: Polyester, has an interior layer of steel mesh material.
Colours: Available in 6 colours (black, tan brown, purple, econyl storm, merlot and blue).
Key Features
- Cut-proof material.
- Adjustable and cut-resistant shoulder straps.
- Detachable shoulder lock and turn strap to secure to a fixed structure
- Rear slip pocket and RFID zipper pocket.
- Interlocking zipper pulls.
- Two in one design – converts from crossbody sling to backpack.
- Padded sleeve fits 10” smart device.
- Flattened bottom for upright structure.
- Side pocket for water bottle or compact umbrella.
Pacsafe Stylesafe’s anti-theft convertible sling to backpack for women is a spacious bag for dual-use that is perfect size for travel as well as everyday use.
The bag is super-lightweight and is ideal when you want to travel light. There are loads of compartments to keep all your travel essentials organised. The stylish and functional exterior give it a fashionable look that some of the other bags lack.
Pro: The bag can be converted from a dual-shoulder backpack to a single-shoulder sling bag.
Con: Some find the straps a little short in sling mode and perhaps better suited to those of a smaller structure.
Anti-theft features:
- Cut-proof material.
- Adjustable and cut-resistant shoulder straps.
- Exterior pocket with zipper that slides under a loop for extra-safety.
- Detachable shoulder strap to reinforce and securely lock it to secured fixture.
- Slip pocket at the back.
- RFID zipper pocket inside the main compartment.
- Interlocking zipper pulls.
Other features:
- Side pocket for water bottle or compact umbrella.
- Convertible into a crossbody or sling bag.
- Super-lightweight.
- Water-repellent material.
- Padded tablet compartment that fits 10” smart device.
- Internal key ring.
- Flattened bottom for upright structure.
Size: Medium (22 x 9 x 31 cm), 10 L volume
Weight: 330 grams
Fabric: Polyester, has an interior layer of steel mesh material (eXomesh)
Colours: Available in 5 colours (black, coral, green, mocha and navy blue)
Key Features
- Cut-proof material.
- Adjustable and cut-resistant shoulder straps.
- Detachable shoulder strap to lock it to a secured fixture.
- Hidden exterior pocket.
- Expandable side pockets for water bottle or compact umbrella.
- Lightweight and Water-repellent material.
- Laptop compartment for device up to 9.7″.
- Large capacity
- Two in one design – switch from backpack to shoulder bag.
If you are looking for a small, lightweight, water-resistant, multipurpose, and stylish anti-theft backpack, then Pincnel’s anti-theft backpack purse for women fits the bill perfectly.
Though the bag looks small, the main compartment is deceptively large. You can fit a tablet, books, water bottle, wallet, makeup kit, pens, keys, headphones, even a small winter jacket.
The hidden zipper compartment on the front is perfect for keeping passport, phone, or wallet for ease of access by you only.
The backpack also has a top single strap so it can be carried as a handbag/ purse, which makes it look more stylish.
Pro: The backpack is super-spacious and doesn’t feel heavy even when fully loaded. It is also budget friendly.
Con: The back zipper opening to the main compartment is a little tight which makes it difficult to access larger items.
Anti-theft features:
- Cut-proof material
- Adjustable and cut-resistant shoulder straps
- Detachable shoulder strap to reinforce and securely lock it to secured fixture
- Hidden exterior pocket
Other Features:
- Expandable side pockets for water bottle or compact umbrella.
- Lightweight.
- Water-repellent material.
- Tablet compartment that fits 10” smart device.
- Multiple pockets for better organization.
Size: Medium (33 x 15 x 34 cm)
Weight: 590 grams
Fabric: Soft durable PU leather and nylon
Colours: Available in 7 colours (black, blue, brown, dark red, grey, khaki and olive)
Key Features
- Hidden main compartment.
- Strong strap hooks.
- Detachable shoulder strap to lock it to a secure fixture.
- Padded laptop compartment for a 9.7” smart device.
- Adjustable straps.
- Side pockets for water bottle or a compact umbrella.
- Pocket at the back.
- Made from quality soft leather.
This leather backpack is very versatile. It can be used as a backpack with the shoulder straps and as a purse if one of the clip-on shoulder strap is released. It has a semi-glossy leather look that gives it a stylish and feminine appearance.
S-zone Soft leather stylish anti-theft backpack has so much storage space yet doesn’t look bulky. It is so versatile it can be used for day to day wear or travel and will take you from day to casual evenings out no problem.
Pro: The backpack is extremely durable. The quality of the leather used, and the craftsmanship is incredible.
Con: The backpack has excellent theft-proof features but also quality hardware which makes it one of the heaviest in our selection – although not entirely a deal-breaker.
Anti-theft features:
- Hidden main compartment.
- Strong strap hooks.
- Detachable shoulder strap to reinforce and securely lock it to a secured fixture.
Other features:
- Padded tablet compartment for a 9.7” smart device.
- Adjustable straps.
- Side pockets for keeping a water bottle or a compact umbrella.
- Pocket at the back.
- Open and zippered pockets inside.
Size: Medium (32 x 16 x 33 cm).
Weight: 960 grams.
Fabric: Soft genuine leather.
Colours: Available in 7 colours (black, blue, brown, grey, light blue, pink and wine red).
Key Features
- Slash-resistant construction.
- Adjustable and slash-resistant shoulder straps.
- Interior RFID blocking card slots.
- Locking zippers.
- Turn and lock security hooks on the shoulder strap to lock to a table/ chair.
- Can hold a small tablet device.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Multi-compartment for easy organisation.
- Interior keychain hook with a flashlight.
Travelon is a brand that specialises in manufacturing anti-theft travel gear. Travelon AT classic sling bag is a stylish theft-proof bag that is comfortable to wear. You can wear it on your right or left shoulder simply by changing the strap direction.
The bag is roomy enough, but it is advisable not to overload it as you’ll be carrying the entire weight on one shoulder. The anti-theft features are top-notch as one cannot slash the bag or the straps or un-zip the zippers easily.
Pro: The bag has Travelon’s top of the range anti-theft security features at a very reasonable price.
Con: Water bottle can slip out from the mesh pocket of the bag.
Anti-theft features:
- Slash-resistant construction.
- Adjustable and slash-resistant shoulder straps.
- Interior RFID blocking card slots.
- Locking zippers.
- Turn and lock security hooks on the shoulder strap to lock the backpack to a table/ chair.
Other features:
- Mesh expansion pocket to hold a water bottle or an umbrella.
- Water-repellent.
- Lightweight.
- Passport pockets.
- 1 inner zippered pocket.
- Interior keychain hook with a flashlight.
- Mesh back for comfort.
- Multi-compartment for easy organisation.
- Can hold a small tablet.
Size: Small (18 x 9 x 35 cm).
Weight: 400 grams
Fabric: Polyester
Colours: Available in 3 colours (black, blue and nutmeg)
Key Features
- RFID blocking card slots.
- Front slash-proof pocket.
- Cut-resistant material.
- Adjustable and slash-resistant straps.
- Locked zippered pockets.
- Lock-down straps to prevent grab-and-go robbery.
- Water-repellent and Stain-resistant.
- iPad and tablet sleeve.
Travelon’s signature slim and stylish anti-theft backpack for women is a premium quality backpack that has all anti-theft features packed in along with a designer appearance. The internal colours of the backpack are light and pretty which gives it a fashionable finish and makes things easy to find.
The internal organisation is great making it a perfect backpack for daily use. The bag which is compact and stylish has been designed with women in mind.
Pro: The backpack has lots of pockets for better organization of travel essentials.
Con: The straps of the backpack slide off the shoulders if not adjusted correctly. Not ideal to be worn with loose straps as some backpacks can be.
Anti-theft features:
RFID blocking card slots.
Front slash-proof pocket.
Cut-resistant material.
Adjustable and slash-resistant straps.
Locked zippered pockets.
Lock-down straps to prevent grab-and-go robbery.
Other features:
- Passport slot.
- Magnetic front flap closure.
- Water-repellent.
- Stain-resistant.
- iPad and tablet sleeve.
- Lightweight.
Size: Medium (28 x 5 x 33 cm)
Weight: 520 grams
Fabric: Nylon
Colours: Available in 3 colours (black, sable and smoke)
Tips For Keeping Yourself Safe While Travelling
While anti-theft backpacks will help keep your belongings safe, it is not a complete guarantee against theft. Here are a few quick tips to keep you and your backpack safe:
You can find our complete safe travel guide with the best anti-theft travel gear reviews here.
- On public transport, try to keep your backpack to your front with your arms looped through the straps.
- In cafe and restaurant situations, if your backpack has lockdown straps, use them where practical to secure the bag to a fixed object such as a chair or table to prevent grab and run theft. But never leave your bag unattended in this way.
- Do not pack important things like tablet, passport, or camera in outside pockets. Unless in a secure, hidden pocket with antitheft protection for items you regularly access. Internal pockets are still the best.
- Only carry what cash and cards you need. Do not keep all the cash or cards in your backpack, leave some in your accommodations safe so you don’t get caught short. Keep a little cash or spare card hidden in your clothes pocket in case of emergency, pickpocket-proof clothing has hidden pockets for this.
- Do your research and know the safety status of the destination you are travelling to, prepare yourself and act accordingly while you are there.
- Invest in good travel gear. Don’t scrimp when it comes to safety.
- Make sure you have appropriate insurance.
Whatever happens, always remember that your personal safety is more important than your materialistic belongings.