Top Cross Body Anti-Theft Travel Bags

Jennie
Top Anti-Theft Travel Bags

Investing in an anti-theft travel bag is always a good decision for any traveler. No matter where you're travelling next, having extra security features in your bag is always a good idea. Even if you never have to use them, the peace of mind these features offer can be huge when navigating busy cities, unfamiliar public transport, or unknown areas. But choosing the right anti-theft bag can be difficult. Don't worry; we're here to help! Anti-theft travel bags are different from regular bags because of their unique design. They usually have zippered pockets and are made from strong, lightweight materials. The best anti-theft bags have features like anti-slash fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking panels to protect against digital scams like skimming.

In this guide, we have added different bag styles, such as slings, messengers, totes, and backpacks, so you can pick the one that best suits your style and security needs.

Top Anti-Theft Travel Bags

When choosing an anti-theft bag, look for features like hidden compartments, lockable zippers, RFID-blocking panels, and slash-resistant straps and materials (such as heavy-duty nylon). Crossbody bags are generally considered safer than shoulder bags. It’s a good idea to pick anti-theft bags that offer smart organization and a comfortable fit. Continue reading to find out what makes these picks perfect for travelers.

1. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

What makes it a great choice

The Travelon Messenger Bag is a trusted option for frequent travelers.
It has a crossbody design with an adjustable strap, making it easy to carry close to your body.

Made with 900-denier nylon, one of the toughest fabric weaves available, both the bag and its strap are designed to resist cuts. People also like it for its lockable zippers and RFID-blocking pockets, which are perfect for keeping your credit cards and passports secure. Additionally, it comes with a lockdown strap that you can use to secure the bag to a chair or table when dining out.

This bag also has excellent organizational features. There's a side mesh pocket for a water bottle, and the interior is surprisingly spacious, big enough to hold items like a packable puffer jacket or a cotton hoodie.

What you need to know

  • While this bag isn't water-resistant, you can store valuables in a waterproof case inside the bag to keep them dry.

Product Details: 

  • Dimensions: 9 x 12.5 x 3.5 inches
     
  • Weight: 1.1 lbs
     
  • Material: 900D nylon, polyester 
     
  • RFID-blocking: Yes 
     
  • Volume: 4.5L

2. Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack 

What makes it a great choice

Priced under $30, this backpack provides excellent anti-theft and organizational features for travelers. The main compartment is secured with metal zippers and a lock that is protected by a three-digit code. The second front pocket features two zippers that can be fastened with zipper clips to prevent unauthorized access.

Designed with a sleek, minimalist look, this backpack includes multiple pockets, zippered compartments, and a padded laptop sleeve. There’s also a hidden slide pocket on the back, giving easy access to essentials without needing to open the main compartment. The luggage strap is another convenient feature for hands-free travel.

What you need to know

  • While the backpack offers some solid anti-theft features, it does not include RFID-blocking pockets to protect against digital theft like skimming.

Product details:

  • Dimensions: 5 x 19 x 12 inches  
     
  • Weight: 1.6 lbs 
     
  • Material: Nylon and polyester
     
  • RFID-blocking: No
     
  • Volume: 21L

3. Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti-Theft Urban Sling

What makes it a great choice

You might be wondering if the security features on these anti-theft crossbody bags make them difficult to use. The answer is both yes and no. Some bags add so many security features that they can be a bit cumbersome, but the Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti-Theft Urban Sling is not one of them. Once you get used to the locking main compartment zippers, they’re easy to use, and we like the locking strap closure. Plus, most of the security features are internal, so they don’t interfere with how you carry the bag.

While the zippers can be a bit noisy when not locked, which might annoy some users, it's important to remember this is an anti-theft bag—so lock them up! The bag doesn’t have a secondary compartment, which was a bit inconvenient during testing when we wanted quick access to something. However, the main compartment is spacious and features thoughtful organization, including room for pens and small gadgets.

The back panel is nicely padded and has ventilation holes, which come in handy on hot days. Overall, this anti-theft bag is very comfortable, though its larger size might feel bulky for those with smaller frames.

What you need to know

  • Zippers can be noisy when not locked
     
  • No secondary compartment for additional items

Product details:

  • Dimensions: 36.5cm x 20cm x 8cm 
     
  • Weight: 370g
     
  • Material: Almost 100% regenerated nylon and recycled polyester  
     
  • RFID-blocking: Yes Volume:  5L

4. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 Travel Backpack

What makes it a great choice

When people think of anti-theft backpacks, they usually imagine big and bulky ones. But the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 proves that doesn’t have to be the case. This sleek and comfortable travel backpack comes with great security features to keep your things safe.

All the pockets have locking zippers, and the main compartment has Pacsafe’s Roobar Deluxe locking system. The bag’s material also includes eXomesh, which makes it slash-proof. Plus, the straps have Dyneema to add even more protection.

That said, all the security features can make it harder to access your things quickly. This can be a problem when you’re at customs and need something fast. To avoid slowing down the line, it’s a good idea to unlock the zippers ahead of time. The water bottle pockets are roomy, but smaller bottles might move around inside. On the plus side, a larger bottle means you can stay hydrated for longer.

The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 is big but not bulky, and it has one of the highest levels of security features on the list. It could be the perfect anti-theft backpack for you!

What you need to know

  • Access to the compartments can take some time
     
  • Small water bottles may slip out of the side pockets

Product details: 

  • Dimensions: 52 × 25 × 20 cm
     
  • Weight: 3.33 lbs
     
  • Material: Recycled Polyester
     
  • RFID-blocking: Yes 
     
  • Volume:  35L 

5. Travelon Anti-Theft Greenlander Compact Sling

 

Travelon Anti-Theft Greenlander Compact Sling

What makes it a great choice

Not everyone needs a big, anti-theft bag. Sometimes, you just want something small to carry your phone, wallet, and a few extras. If that’s what you’re after, the Travelon Anti-Theft Greenlander Compact Sling is a great option.

Just like other Travelon products, this bag is packed with security features. It’s made with slash-resistant materials; the main compartment has a zipper that clips into place, the front pocket uses a pull-through zipper lock, and the inside has RFID protection. That’s a lot of safety packed into a small sling! Luckily, these features don’t get in the way of how you use it. The bag can hang a little awkwardly, depending on how it sits, but that’s a minor issue for such a compact and secure option.

While it doesn’t hold a lot, the Greenlander Compact Sling is a solid choice for anyone who wants a lightweight, anti-theft bag for everyday essentials.

 What you need to know

  • Doesn’t have much space for more than your daily essentials 
     
  • It might look a little awkward to wear in certain positions 

Product details: 

  • Dimensions: 5 in x 7.25 in x 1.75 in (12.7 x 18.4 x 4.4 cm)
     
  • Weight: 0.4 lb (0.2 kg)
     
  • Material: RPET Polyester
     
  • RFID-blocking: Yes 
     
  • Volume: 0.75 Liters 

6. Arden Cove Grande Marina Convertible Wallet and Belt Bag

What makes it a great choice

Most of the anti-theft bags on this list have a sporty or travel-friendly look, which is great but not for everyone. If you’re after something more stylish and professional, check out the Arden Cove Grande Marina Convertible Wallet and Belt Bag.

This clutch-sized crossbody bag is both chic and secure. The zippers clip into place to protect the main compartment, the interior has RFID-blocking material, and the strap is designed to resist cutting. It’s a great blend of fashion and function.

Depending on how you plan to use it, the inside of the bag might work great or not quite meet your needs. It opens in an accordion style, which makes it easy to see everything at a glance and stay organized.

The space inside is mainly designed for flat items like cash, cards, and other small essentials. If you need to carry bulkier things, it might not be the best fit.

Still, with its stylish design and strong security features, this bag could be a great choice for your next city outing or business trip.

What you need to know

  • The internal format might not fit every travel need
     
  • The style might not match everyone’s taste 

Product details:

  • Dimensions: 4.5 in x 1.75 in x 8 in (11.4 x 4.4 x 20.3 cm)
     
  • Weight: 0.525 lbs (238.1 g)
     
  • Material: Faux
     
  • RFID-blocking: Yes
     
  • Volume: 1.9 L 

7. Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Sling Pack

What makes it a great choice

Waist or hip packs are great anti-theft options because they stay close to your body and can be worn in various ways, even under a jacket.

This Pacsafe sling pack features a water-resistant, recycled polyester exterior and includes an RFID-blocking pocket for extra security. The strap is cut-resistant, and the bag also has a double-locking buckle.

Inside, the sling offers a small wall pocket and a spacious main compartment for your essentials. For added security, you can lock the zippers in place using the clip on the left side of the sling.

What you need to know

  • This sling pack is best for carrying small everyday items. It lacks extensive internal organization to keep your things separated. 

Product Details:

  • Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.1 x 3.4 inch
     
  • Weight: 0.4 lbs
     
  • Material: Recycled polyester
     
  • RFID: Yes
     
  • Volume: 2.5L 

8. Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack

What makes it a great choice

Compact and lightweight, this water-resistant Baggallini backpack offers great anti-theft features for travel. The straps and internal panels are designed to resist cuts, while the zippered back pocket is made from RFID-blocking material. The main compartment is secured with locking zippers.

One of the standout features of this backpack is its storage capacity. It includes multiple card slots and pockets for your smartphone and tablet, both in the main compartment and back pocket. There are also two side pockets for water bottles.

What you need to know

  • This backpack is too small to hold a laptop, and the zippers on the front pockets are not lockable. 

Product Details:

  • Dimensions: 10 x 13 x 3.5 in.
     
  • Weight:  1.1 lbs
     
  • Materials: N/A
     
  • RFID: Yes
     
  • Volume: 7.5L

9. Sherpani Esprit AT

What makes it a great choice: Imagine you have a trip in three days. Your friends or family have told you to pack for weeks, but you’re just starting now. You’ve always wanted a travel sling, but you’re worried about keeping your stuff safe. That’s probably how you found this page—and lucky you! As of now, the Sherpani Esprit is available with Prime One-Day Shipping to some places, so you can get it just in time.

Besides fast shipping, this anti-theft crossbody bag comes with handy features: locking zipper tunnels, a clip to secure the main opening, a loop to attach it to your chair, and enough space for a 10-inch tablet. The safety features are pretty simple, but if you’re in a rush, they still offer good protection. Plus, we like the fun color options—you can stay safe and stylish!

It’s made for women, but men with smaller frames can wear it comfortably, too. If you need a quick-shipping, lightweight bag with basic anti-theft features and cool colors, this might be the perfect one for your trip!

What you need to know

  • It might be too small for some body types
     
  • Not reversible

Product details:

  • Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 5 inches
     
  • Weight: 13 oz
     
  • Material:100% Recycled Mélange & Ballistic Nylon
     
  • RFID: Yes
     
  • Volume: N/A

10. Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Neck Wallet 

Why it’s a great choice 

Neck wallets—slim pouches with an adjustable cord to wear under clothes—have become increasingly popular. This one is just the right size to hold a passport, cash, and credit cards without being too bulky.

Made from RFID-blocking nylon, this wallet also features an adjustable neck strap and a main compartment divided into two sections with a flap Velcro closure.

What you need to know

  • The Velcro closure is standard, and the strap is not cut-resistant.

Product details:

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

What does "anti-theft" mean in a bag?

Anti-theft bags come with special features made to keep pickpockets away. These features usually include things like zippers that can be locked, straps that lock or are hard to cut, strong slash-proof material, and layers that block RFID signals to protect your cards. Bags with these features are harder to steal from, so pickpockets are more likely to avoid them and look for easier targets.

Pickpockets typically don’t have time to deal with obstacles; they need to act fast and move on. The same goes for slash-proof materials; unless a thief is bold enough to use something like a saw in public, they won’t be able to cut through the bag. RFID-blocking layers also help by stopping people from scanning your credit cards and stealing your info.

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