15 Anti-theft Travel Bags for Valuables, from $28

If you’ve ever been to a big European city, you know how common pickpocketing is. It happens in an instant—the thieves can be so quick and unassuming, you’d miss them if you let your guard down for even a second. That’s exactly what happened when my mom and I went to Paris during Christmas a few years ago. As we stepped off a crowded bus, I turned to help her step down and caught a kid unzipping her bag, ready to grab everything inside. I yelled, chased after him, and luckily, that was enough to send him running. 

Since then, I’ve been scouring the web for anti-theft bags I can travel with (and gift to my mom for when we travel together). Because these days, it’s not just about having bags that can lock or have tight straps—thanks to new technology, pickpockets can now steal your data without even opening your bag. Armed with small handheld RFID readers, thieves can wirelessly scan credit cards or passports from a short distance to capture chip data and clone cards without ever touching your wallet.

So, between lockable zippers, anti-slash fabric, and RFID blockers, the right bag needs to pull quadruple duty in protecting your belongings. Still, they need to be lightweight enough to carry on long tours or bustling travel days, and stylish enough to keep you from looking like a total tourist. To help, I’ve found 15 of the best anti-theft bags that will protect your belongings wherever you roam, no matter your budget—because nothing ruins the vibe of a vacation quite like having to cancel your credit cards and dash to the Embassy to get a new passport. Shop the anti-theft travel bags I’m eyeing before my next trip below. 

Best Deals Overall

Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Bag

Amazon

No list is complete without the Pacsafe Go anti-theft bag. One of the best brands in travel gear, this sleek crossbody is designed with built-in security features like cut-resistant straps and panels, lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and Pacsafe’s signature TurnNLock hook system that keeps the bag tethered securely to your chair or luggage. Despite all the tech, it still feels lightweight and minimalist, made from recycled, water-resistant fabric. Best of all, it’s under $100. 

Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Crossbody

Amazon

This compact crossbody by Baggallini is packed with security features, including slash-resistant panels, a double-cable cut-resistant strap, locking zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets to protect passports and cards. Despite its protective build, it’s still chic and compact, and is made from water-repellent nylon that’s lightweight enough for all-day wear on tours and sightseeing excursions. On sale for $60, it’s one of the more affordable bags on the market. 

Travelon Compact Sling

Amazon

A sling is one of the best bags for long days on your feet—and this one by Travelon fits the bill. It’s designed with the brand’s signature five-point anti-theft system, which includes slash-resistant construction, locking zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets that keep your cards and data safe and secure. Weighing less than 1 pound, this bag sits comfortably across the body completely hands-free. The price is reasonable, too; it’s a travel essential you can feel good stocking up on in multiple colors. 

Rachel Bloom Smart Crossover

Rachel Bloom

A high-tech twist on classic travel luxury, this beautiful crossbody bag comes equipped with everything you could imagine to stay secure on your adventures, including a biometric fingerprint lock, RFID protection, and GPS tracking for even more peace of mind. Not only that, the zippers lock completely and it even comes with an alarm if your bag moves too far from your body. The full-grain, buttery-soft leather adds an element of luxury, making it perfect for travelers who want security without sacrificing style. At roughly $395, it’s an investment piece, but if you plan on traveling a lot, it’s well worth the splurge. 

Arden Cove Mini Crossbody

Arden Cove

Arden Cove’s Mini Crossbody is small but mighty, so if you need a bag that won’t weigh you down, this is the one. Its slash-proof body is also waterproof and comes with locking zippers, RFID-blocking card slots, and lockable clasps. Plus, you can add slash-proof straps for an added level of security. Despite the tough exterior, it’s still effortlessly chic, with subtle gold hardware and six colors to choose from. 

Solo Stealth Hybrid Backpack

Amazon

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Travel Bag

Macy’s

Despite its compact size, this bag is packed with smart protection. It’s got all the features you want in a quality anti-theft bag, like slash-resistant mesh, locking zippers, and a cut-proof strap to keep pickpockets away. Plus, it has RFID-blocking pockets that safeguard your cards and passport from digital theft, while the organized interior makes it even easier to grab what you need on the go. It’s also lightweight and durable, and comes in four neutral colors that literally go with everything. 

Rachel Bloom Smart Backpack (with GPS)

Rachel Bloom 

Anti-theft meets cosmopolitan-chic with this luxurious leather backpack. Like the brand’s crossbody above, Rachel Bloom’s backpack is decked out in security measures to keep your valuables safe, whether on the metro, on the street, or even commuting to work. It has  the same fingerprint sensor so only you can open it, a zipper lock, slash-resistant layer, distance monitoring, and even GPS tracking that syncs up to the app. Storage wise, it holds a lot, too, including a laptop, tablet, keys, airpods, camera, and more. 

Arden Cove Victoria Tote 

Arden Cove

As cute as it is protective, the Victoria Tote from Arden Cove was designed to be protective without skimping on style. The easy-to-match colors make it easy to take it from work to the bar, or from the plane to the piazza, and it’s even coated with a water-resistant exterior and outfitted with premium gold hardware. Plus, it holds even more than it looks, making it the go-to for travel and work (or lugging your daughter’s ipad and a few of her Labubus). 

Pincel Women’s Backpack 

Amazon

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you don’t deserve protection in your bags. This affordable option is stacked with surprising security, including an anti-theft back-zip entry, water-resistant nylon, and sturdy zippers that resist tampering. Multiple compartments help keep essentials organized and close, while the sleek design pairs with everything from my go-to matching sweat set to my business casual. 

The Foldie Crossbody 

Foldie

When you’re an overpacker like me, bags are often an after-thought because my suitcase is already full. Thankfully, the Foldie Crossbody folds down super compact for minimal carry but expands to fit everything you need. It includes secure zippered pockets, RFID-blocking compartments (take that, digital thieves), and durable construction to help deter theft while keeping your wallet within easy reach. The best part? It comes in 10+ colorways so you can mix and match depending on your outfit, your mood, and your vibes. 

Naya Small Crossbody Bag

Minooy

One of the sleekest options on the list, the Naya Crossbody boasts hidden compartments with RFID-blocking technology to shield your cards and ID from super savvy pickpocketers. The sturdy hardware and reinforced strap add security while maintaining a lightweight feel that doesn’t weigh you down. Made from high quality full-grain leather, it’s as luxurious as it is practical, and comes in 14 colors for quick mix and matching.  

PacSafe CX Convertible Backpack

Amazon

Pacsafe has helped set the standard for anti-theft bags, and their CX is one of the best in their lineup. Not only is it made with cut-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-safe pockets that stop thieves in their tracks, it converts from a backpack to a handbag in seconds. As a bonus, it’s made from recycled materials, making it not just secure, but sustainable and durable too. 

Urbanmax Sling Bag

Macy’s

One of the few slingbags on the list, the Urbanmax Sling Bag makes the cut by boasting security through its super smart design. Its close-to-body strap and hidden back pocket make it difficult for anyone (even the savviest of sneaks) to nab it, while the water-resistant material adds everyday durability. The lightweight and easy-to-carry body makes it the ultimate go-to for city life, hikes, or quick trips. 

Inicat Blocking Slingback

Amazon

Affordable and functional, this casual sling bag offers RFID-blocking pockets, hidden compartments, and a crossbody strap that keeps it snug to the body—perfect for crowded metros or festivals. The lightweight fabric keeps it from weighing you down during long travel days, and its simple design pairs easily with everything. Plus, it’s on major sale right now (under $30), so you can stock up on multiple colorways.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.