Top Cross Body Anti-Theft Travel Bags

Jennie
Top Cross Body Anti-Theft Travel Bags

Investing in an anti-theft travel bag is always a good decision for any traveler. No matter where you're traveling 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. Keep reading to learn why these selections are ideal for travelers.

1. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

What makes it a great choice

The Travelo Anti-theft  Messenger Bag is a reliable choice for regular 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. It also has a lockdown strap that you can use to strap the bag to a chair or table when eating out.

The bag also has great organizational options. There's a side mesh pocket for a water bottle, and the inside is surprisingly roomy, large enough to accommodate items such as a packable puffer jacket or a cotton hoodie.

What you need to know

  • Although this bag is not water-resistant, you can place valuables in a waterproof case within the bag to ensure they stay dry.

Product Details: 

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

2. Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack 

What makes it a great choice

Under $30, this backpack offers great anti-theft and organizational capabilities for travelers. The main pocket is locked with metal zippers and a lock covered by a three-digit code. The second front pocket has two zippers that can be secured with zipper clips to keep others out.

With a slimmer, sleeker design, this backpack offers several pockets, zippered sleeves, and an insulated laptop case. There's even a hidden slide pocket on the rear that provides direct access to a must-have item without needing to open the full compartment. Luggage strap accessibility is another advantage for hands-free travel.

What you need to know

  • Though the backpack has some good anti-theft properties, it lacks RFID-blocking pockets to guard against electronic theft such as 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 does not include a secondary pocket, which can be a little awkward while testing, when we needed immediate access to something. But the top compartment is quite large and includes thoughtful organization, such as space for pens and little gadgets.

The back panel is well-padded and includes ventilation holes, which are a blessing on warm days. This anti-theft bag is overall very comfortable, although its bigger size may feel bulky on people 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. However, the Pacsafe  EXP35 proves that this doesn't have to be the case. This slim and comfortable travel backpack has excellent security features to secure your belongings.

All the pockets have lockable zippers, and the main compartment also features Pacsafe's  Deluxe locking system. The material of the bag also contains Exomesh, which renders it slash-proof. Additionally, the straps have Dymemma to add even more protection.

However, all the security features can make it difficult to access your belongings quickly. This can be a problem when you’re at customs and need something quickly. 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 may move around inside. On the other hand, a larger bottle means you can stay hydrated for longer.

The Pacsafe  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: 3.3 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-blocking material. 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.

Although 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 L

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 travel-friendly look, which is great, but not for everyone. If you’re after something more stylish and professional, check out the Arden  Convertible  Belt Bag.

This crossbody bag is both stylish and secure. The zippers clip into place to protect the main compartment, the inside 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, so you can easily view everything at once and keep everything organized. The inside space is primarily used for flat objects such as money, cards, and other similar little necessities. If you have to carry bulkier items, it may not be your best fit.

Still, with its fashionable style and robust protection features, this bag may make a perfect choice for your city trip or business trip.

What you need to know

  • The inside layout may not suit all traveling requirements
     
  • The fashion may not appeal to everyone's preferences

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 internal organization to keep your items separated.

Product Details:

  • Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.1 x 3.4 in.
     
  • Weight: 0.4 lbs
     
  • Material: Recycled polyester
     
  • RFID: Yes
     
  • Volume: 1.9 L

8. Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack

What makes it a great choice

Lightweight and compact, this Baggallini backpack is water-resistant with excellent anti-theft travel features. The internal panels and straps are cut-resistant, and the zipped back pocket is RFID-blocking material. Locking zippers secure the main compartment.

One of the strongest points of this backpack is how much storage capacity it has. It has a variety of card slots and compartments for your tablet and smartphone, both in the main pocket and back pocket. It also features 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: 7.5 L

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 areas, 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 cool 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 in.
     
  • 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—slip pockets with an adjustable strap to wear under clothes—have become increasingly popular. This one is the right size to hold a passport, cash, and credit cards without being too bulky.

Made from RFID-blocking material, 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: Not applicable

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

Anti-theft bags have special features designed to keep pickpockets away. These features usually include features such as zippers that can be locked, straps that lock or are hard to cut,  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 do not have time to deal with obstacles; they need to act quickly 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 will not be able to cut through the bag. RFID-blocking layers also help by stopping people from scanning your credit cards and stealing your information.

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