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Safety is always a concern when traveling, and using a secure travel purse always should be a priority. We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women, and our readers have voted for their favorite styles. Find out which of these anti-theft purse options they love the most!

 

If you don’t have time to read the entire article, this is the most popular theft proof bag for travel! 

 


What’s the Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse?


 

 

What is an Anti Theft Bag?

 

If you’ve never heard of them before, you may be wondering what is an anti theft purse exactly?

An anti-theft bag is a purse, backpack, or luggage with built-in safety features. It’s designed to help you avoid becoming a victim of theft at home or abroad. They also can be referred to as theft proof bags or slash proof bags.

 

 

Best Travel Purses and Anti-theft Bags Reviews

 

Below you’ll find the slashproof bags for traveling most recommended by our readers.

 

 

Best Crossbody Travel Purses with Safety Features

 

 

anti-theft-purse

Travelon Anti Theft Classic Messenger Bag

 

Best Travel Bags with Space for Just About Everything: Travelon Messenger Purse

 

I absolutely loved the Classic Messenger Bag for my trip to Europe. It was very spacious, offered RFID protection, plus it had two compartments for a water bottle and a travel size umbrella. I loved this feature!

Available in over 10 colors, this is another great anti-theft purse. It’s more spacious than the previously mentioned Anti Theft Cross Body Bag.

Unlike the Classic Cross Body bag, it also has a security feature (lockable zippers) on the outside pocket. However, I’d still recommend keeping valuables in the interior compartments.

In addition to the basics, it also will fit a paperback book, small tablet or Kindle, snacks, sunglasses, and more. Buy it here!

 

 

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Best Seller: Travelon Anti Theft Cross Body Bag

 

Top Pick for the Best Purse for Travel: Travelon Anti Theft Cross Body

 

The Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag is the best selling purse for travel! In fact, our readers say it’s the best travel purse ever!

It has a slim design, featuring slash-proof fabric and an adjustable, cut-proof shoulder strap. You can attach it to any post or chair for added safety, and it also comes with RFID blocking card slots.

Retailing for as low as $30, this cross body is available in over 20 colors. Our readers favor the bag in a classic black but two other popular options are the midnight and stone colors.

Without overstuffing it, you can easily carry a small water bottle, travel size umbrella, phone, and other daily essentials.

If you’re wondering what is the best anti theft bag, this is it! Buy it here!

 

If you’d prefer a roomier bag and don’t mind carrying weight on your shoulders while sightseeing all day, consider the Classic Messenger Bag shown previously instead.

 

 

Best Small Travel Purses with Safety Features

 

 

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Travelon Anti Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

 

Best Purses for Minimalist Travelers: Travelon Mini Shoulder Bag

 

When we read that this bag has the best features of a large purse without the bulk and the weight – we were sold! The Travelon Classic Mini Anti-theft Bag is a small travel purse that can carry all your daily essentials.

This slim anti-theft shoulder bag offers a locking main compartment, an RFID pocket for a passport, credit cards slots, and adjustable shoulder straps.

At just 10 oz., featuring Travelon’s durable nylon water-resistant material – this bag is a clear winner!

It’s ideal for women who prefer a small travel bag or for sightseeing days where you don’t need to bring as much with you. Buy it here!

 

 

anti-theft purse

Travelon Heritage Anti Theft Cross Body Bag

 

Best Anti Theft Bags for Traveling to Casual Destinations: Travelon Heritage Cross Body

 

The Anti-theft features include slash-resistant construction, locking compartments, slash-resistant and locking straps to keep you and your belongings protected. In addition, there is a locking front zippered pocket.

If you’re tall, the strap is long enough to allow you to wear the bag comfortably as a cross-body. However, if you’re shorter, the strap can be easily adjusted to fit your height as well.

I particularly like the look of Travelon’s “Signature” and “Heritage” Collections, like the Heritage small travel purse featured above. I highly recommend these styles if you’re looking for a more “fashionable” theft proof purse. Buy it here!

 

 

Best Anti Theft Backpacks with Safety Features

 

 

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Travelon Signature Slim Anti Theft Backpack

 

Best Theft Proof Backpack: Travelon Signature Bag

 

Ever since I started having back issues, I’ve found that purse backpacks are a good alternative to travel handbags because they evenly distribute the weight across my back.

Because of this, I’ve been on the hunt for cute and stylish options, and the Signature Anti Theft Backpack by Travelon was a great find! This is the best anti theft backpack for travelers who want to have a stylish option with all the benefits of a safe travel bag.

The main compartment has RFID blocking card and passport slots, an open top wall pocket, zippered wall pocket and tethered key clip with LED light. There’s a hidden slash pocket under the flap, perfect for sunglasses or a smartphone.

Because of its slim width, it’s a good option for summer travel when you don’t need to carry around extra layers. Buy it here!

 

 

 

 

What Are the Special Features of an Anti-Theft Bag?

 

There are special safety features found in anti-theft bags:

 

 

Slash-proof Fabric

 

Thin but strong wire or meshed wire built into the straps so thieves cannot cut into them. Even with the cut proof cables, slash-proof fabric and straps, the bag is relatively lightweight.

 

 

Zippers with Locking Latches

 

One of the most important features in all Travelon anti theft purses is their “lockable” zippers with little latches you can use to avoid pickpockets. The zippers make it more challenging to open your bag. This feature is easy to miss but absolutely essential, and it’s one of the top reasons this brand has the best travel handbags.

One thing to note is that some anti theft bag styles don’t have lockable zippers in smaller exterior pockets. Avoid putting anything of value in the front pockets. Keep things you need easy access to such as chapstick, eye drops, tissues, or some spare change, but store your wallet on the interior zipped compartment closest to your body.

 

 

Attach to Your Chair or Table while Dining

 

Many of the best theftproof travel bags have adjustable shoulder straps, which can be attached to a chair, table, or post using the included carabiner.

 

 

RFID Lining

 

Many bags have extensive RFID blocking organizational pockets and separate areas for credit cards, pens, or interior zippered pouch for money or loose change. RFID lining helps to keep credit card information from being stolen electronically.

 

 

Easy to Clean Material

 

As a bonus, the material is easy to clean and hard wearing, making it ideal for travel. Generally speaking, anti theft travel bags for women are made with a water-resistant nylon making it easy to clean in addition to keeping your belongings dry during light showers.

 

 

Versatility

 

For the most part, theftproof bags are versatile and designed with classic, if not plain, styling. They are available in neutral colors and can be worn with everyday outfits at home just as well when you’re traveling.

Many of our readers also like these travel bags to commute to and from work on public transportation, making it a worthwhile investment.

 

Tip: Travelers think the best travel bag for women is a cross body style as it can be worn securely across their body instead of wearing it loosely slung on their shoulder. Tip: keep your money extra safe with an RFID Secret Bra Wallet, too!

 

 

Using the Travelon Anti Theft Classic Messenger Bag for a 12-Day Europe Trip

 

How Do I Choose the Best Purse for Travel?

 

The best purse for international travel may be one that has anti theft features. It’s something an individual traveler has to decide based on their comfort levels with safety.

However, the one thing that all traveling purses should have is an opening with zippers that can be securely closed. Avoid bags with wide openings or faulty clasps.

You also want to consider the weight and size of the bag as you’ll be carrying it for hours while sightseeing. Unless you’re carrying items for other people or children, avoid choosing a bag that’s too big. It should just hold your daily essentials and enough space to store a couple of layers if you’re traveling in cool weather.

Take style into consideration and remember that an outdoors backpack will look out of place in a big city. The idea is to blend in. Choose the style of bag that you would also use at home.

 

 

Brands with the Best Anti Theft Bags

 

There are two main brands that offer the best anti-theft travel bags for women:

 

Travelon anti theft bags are the most popular option for our readers. They absolutely love this brand, which is why the top selling anti theft travel purse styles are all from Travelon!

If you’re looking for the best travel bags with security features, Travelon has a wide variety of options. If you’re on the hunt for a no-frills unisex anti-theft bag, then Pacsafe might be your best bet.

For a more traditional women’s travel purse, Travelon has a large collection of styles in all shapes, colors, fabrics, and sizes.

In comparison to PacSafe, Travelon offers various options for small travel bags such as the ones shown above.

The details are what stand out the most. I particularly like the metal hardware, which makes the designs look like “regular” purses.

Where Pacsafe truly excels is its anti theft backpacks. Pacsafe offers them in various sizes, including larger carry-on styles, which open from the side to give you full access to all your belongings.

When we researched their favorites, the vast majority of readers preferred the Travelon brand over any other brand.

 

Are All Travelon Bags Anti Theft?

 

Yes, all Travelon bags anti-theft. While some of our readers do buy Pacsafe or anti-theft purses from other brands, the vast majority do prefer Travelon.

I viewed each of their entire collections and found them to be quite distinct in what they had to offer.

 

 

Watch this video for more tips on how to keep your stuff safe while traveling.

 

 

How to Use Anti-theft Travel Bags

 

Whether you choose to use anti-theft travel bags for women or regular purses, always follow these precautions:

 

  • Choose a cross body purse and always wear the strap across your body; don’t wear the strap hung over one shoulder.
  • Avoid carrying all your valuables (including your passport) in your travel purse in busy tourist areas or when attending markets or festivals.
  • Use additional anti-theft products like a bra pouch or money belt to hide the majority of your cash. Only carry the money in your wallet that you’ll need for the day. See a full listing of anti-theft products here!
  • Have your bag positioned toward the front, not against your back side.
  • Hold your purse close to you when in crowded trains or public transportation.
  • Avoid walking next to the street where your travel purse could be yanked from your arm by a motorbike or vehicle.
  • Look up scams and thefts in your travel destination. For example, search topics like “Bali scams” or “Tourist theft risks in London.”

 

For more tips, please read how to keep your passport safe while traveling!

 

 

Watch my video on TPSY TV for a few more anti-theft products.

 

 

Top Anti-Theft Bag Alternatives

 

Items featured in video (in order as shown)

 

Please note: The anti-theft travel purse suggestions and tips offered here are meant to encourage cautious travel but cannot guarantee that theft won’t occur.

 

 

The Benefits of Anti-theft Travel Purses

 

No matter which destination you’re traveling to, safety should always be a top priority. Anti theft slash proof bags can help protect your belongings by making it more difficult for thieves to rip your bag or cut the strap.

  • In Paris: A traveler shared a story of seeing someone’s entire purse get slashed from the bottom. Everything fell out, allowing the thieves to grab it and run.
  • In Tanzania: A volunteer was mugged for her purse with a knife (in which case it doesn’t matter what type of purse you have – just hand it over).
  • In Madrid: An expat had her belongings stolen when walking home late at night.
  • In Southeast Asia: It’s common for thieves on motorbikes to drive past you and cut or rip the strap of your travel purse from your arm, in some cases, dragging you with them. Read one traveler’s story here.

 

While there are reports of thefts from travelers, there is a much higher number of people who’ve never experienced anything even close to these scary situations.

These stories are not meant to scare you. That’s the last thing I want you to feel — the world is a much safer place than we give it credit for. It’s good to be well-informed and cautious, but please don’t feel paranoid.

Fortunately, in many years of full time travel, I’ve never had my travel bag, purse, or any other belongings stolen (so far).

So, while theft does occur, it shouldn’t deter you from enjoying your travels.

 

 

Where Can I Buy an Anti Theft Purse or Travel Bag?

 

You can find theft proof bag brands in travel stores or department stores, but we prefer Amazon as it’s easy to shop and you can usually find the best deals, too!

The Travelon Crossbody Bag in black is the most popular anti theft purse for travel! You can buy it on Amazon.

 

 

So, What Is the Best Travel Purse? Do You Really Need an Anti-Theft Bag?

 

Ultimately, whether you need an anti-theft bag is up to your personal comfort level. Some travelers feel more confident in knowing they have their belongings secured while others are perfectly comfortable with their regular handbag.

Pick pockets tend to target busy tourist areas in large cities all over the world; some female travelers feel safer with an anti theft purse vs. a regular purse.

The best travel purses are the ones that give you the most confidence. Being a confident traveler who’s vigilant and aware of her surroundings is one of the best ways to stay safe.

 

 

Still looking for more options? Here are five more styles to consider:

 

 

anti-theft-purse

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS200 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag

 

Best Bags for Long Commutes: Pacsafe Cross Body Purse

 

For sporty slashproof bags, Pacsafe has several options to choose from, including the PacSafe LS200. It’s incredibly spacious as a versatile, unisex messenger bag and even has an exterior pocket for a water bottle.

Slightly bulkier than other styles, it’s roomy and has a variety of pockets. Travelers like its ability to be used as a small camera bag.

While it’s a popular purse for travel, people who commute on buses and trains for work also like them. Buy it here!

 

Note: Even if you use safe travel bags like the ones featured in this post, never carry all your money and credit cards while sightseeing. Hide the majority of your cash in a bra pouch then store the money you’ll need for the day in your anti-theft purse.

 

 

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Baggallini Anti Theft Convertible Backpack

 

Best Anti Theft Convertible Backpack: Baggallini Bag

 

The one downside that you may experience if using a backpack as your travel purse is that some attractions such as museums or historic sites don’t allow backpacks. This is where the Baggallini solves this rare but potential issue and wins as an awesome anti theft backpack. You can turn it into a shoulder bag in a moment’s notice.

It features slash-proof SecurTex fabric panels and a zippered pocket that is hidden against your back — ideal for a slim wallet or cash. We also love that it includes a convenient, removable RFID-protected phone wristlet. Take the bag from day to night.

This is one of the best bags for minimalist travelers who want to go hands-free and only carry the essentials. This is a slim backpack and is not recommended if you need a lot of space. Buy it here!

 

 

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PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack

 

Best Theft-proof Backpacks with Laptop Sleeve: Pacsafe Citysafe Bag

 

For jetsetters traveling with a laptop, the Pacsafe Citysafe can accommodate up to a 16-inch laptop. It’s very roomy, lightweight, and classic. With interlocking zippers and cut proof material (lightweight steel mesh) to prevent theft/pickpocketing and it’s very lightweight and only 1.54lbs.

This bag is popular for travelers who are concerned about using a backpack in public spaces. With a top carry haul handle and a Luggage Slip that slides over luggage handles to keep your bag balanced on a wheeled bag. It also has a Turn and Lock Security Hook that you can use to secure this backpack on fixtures, which is particularly useful if you’re dining outdoors. 

As a plus, it also has padded straps, which provides extra comfort when carrying heavier, things such as a laptop and charger. Buy it here!

 

 

Best Stylish Travel Purses with Safety Features

 

 

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Travelon Anti Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody

 

Best Travel Bags for Style: Travelon Signature Cross Body

 

The Travelon Anti-theft 3 Compartment Cross Body is part of its Signature Collection, which offers sleek, sophisticated styles, including this theft proof bag, backpacks, wallets, and various sized purses.

One of my favorite things about the Signature Collection is the subdued antique-brass hardware. It looks more like a regular bag vs. an ”anti-theft” bag. Based on looks and functionality, this is easily the best traveling purse for Europe and other major destinations!

Choose the classic black color for a discreet safe travel purse or opt for a colorful option to match a vibrant wardrobe. Buy it here!

 

 

anti-theft-purse

PacSafe Stylesafe Anti-theft Convertible Crossbody Bag

 

Best Large Stylish Anti Theft Travel Bag: PacSafe Stylesafe Convertible Crossbody

 

I love that PacSafe is designing better looking anti theft travel bags such as the Stylesafe Collection. I particularly like the look of the hardware and zippers.

It offers good functionality without sacrificing style or space. It has lots of room for everything including an 11-inch iPad, travel umbrella, and sweater. It’s water-resistant and easy to clean.

It’s very easy to switch from shoulder bag to crossbody bag in seconds and also has a long shoulder strap and might be more suitable for tall women. Buy it here!

 

 

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Sherpani Soleil Anti Theft Backpack

 

Best Convertible Anti Theft Backpack: Sherpani Soleil 3in1 

 

In recent years, the Sherpani Soleil 3 in 1convertible backpack has become a reader favorite! One exclaims, “I used it for four weeks in Europe this summer. Loved it!” This durable and water-resistant bag has numerous compartments to hold anything from a phone to a water bottle, or a small makeup bag, and there’s a laptop sleeve as well as a luggage sleeve.

More budget-oriented than some Pacsafe products, this comes loaded with anti-theft features that include anti-slash fabric, zip locks, RFID blocking protection, and a looping lock system for chairs or table legs. The 3 in 1 function means you can wear it as a crossbody, use it as a tote, or backpack, making it super versatile!

And the way it looks? This TFG reader doesn’t hold back, “Wow! It’s beautiful, versatile, and affordable!” Buy it here!

 

 

Best Anti-Theft Travel Bag Comparison Chart

 

This is a quick review of the best anti theft travel purse options listed above.

BRAND | MODEL FEATURES | REVIEWS RATING | PRICE
Travelon Anti Theft Classic Messenger Bag Best Travel Bags with Space for Just About Everything

It’s more spacious than the previously mentioned Anti Theft Cross Body Bag and even has two expandable side pockets to hold an umbrella and a full-sized water bottle. This is perfect for travel!
Check Price
Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag Top Pick for the Best Purse for Travel

The Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag is the best selling purse for travel! In fact, our readers love this purse more than any other style in their travel bag collection.
Check Price
Travelon Anti Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag Best Purses for Minimalist Travelers

When we read that this bag has the best features of a large purse without the bulk and the weight - we were sold!
Check Price
Travelon Heritage Anti Theft Cross Body Bag Best Anti Theft Bags for Traveling to Casual Destinations

The Anti-theft features include slash-resistant construction, locking compartments, slash-resistant and locking straps to keep you and your belongings protected. In addition, there is a locking front zippered pocket.
Check Price
Travelon Signature Slim Anti Theft Backpack Best Theft Proof Backpack

Dare I say, “rocker chic”? Not too bad for an anti-theft backpack purse!
Check Price
Pacsafe Metrosafe LS200 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag Best Bags for Long Commutes

For sporty slashproof bags, Pacsafe has several options to choose from, including the PacSafe LS250. It’s incredibly spacious as a versatile, unisex messenger bag and even has an exterior pocket for a water bottle.
Check Price
Baggallini Anti Theft Convertible Backpack Best Anti Theft Convertible Backpack

It features slash-proof SecurTex fabric panels and a zippered pocket that is hidden against your back -- ideal for a slim wallet or cash.
Check Price
PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack Best Theft-proof Backpacks with Laptop Sleeve

It’s very roomy, lightweight, and classic. With interlocking zippers and cut proof material (lightweight steel mesh) to prevent theft/pickpocketing and it’s very lightweight and only 1.54lbs.
Check Price
Travelon Anti Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Best Travel Bags for Style

The Travelon Anti-theft 3 Compartment Cross Body is part of their Signature Collection, which offers sleek, sophisticated styles including this backpack, wallets, and various sized purses.
Check Price
PacSafe Stylsafe Anti-theft Convertible Crossbody Bag Best Large Stylish Anti Theft Travel Bag

It offers good functionality without sacrificing style or space. It has lots of room for everything including an 11-inch iPad, travel umbrella, and sweater. It’s water-resistant and easy to clean.
Check Price
Sherpani Soleil Anti Theft Backpack Best Convertible Anti Theft Backpack

I used it for four weeks in Europe this summer. Loved it!
Check Price

 

See a full listing of anti-theft products here!

 

 


What are some of the precautions you take when you travel to keep your valuables safe? What do you think is the best travel bag for women? Share and comment below!


 

To learn more travel safety tips, please read:

 


 

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