I learned about anti-theft backpacks the hard way. On a trip to Barcelona, a stranger’s hand reached into my open zipper pocket on a crowded metro before I could react.
That moment pushed me to test the best anti theft backpacks for travel in 2026 so you do not have to learn the same lesson. Over the past three months, our team has carried 8 different models through airports, cafes, train stations, and crowded tourist streets to see which ones actually keep your gear safe — and which are just marketing.
In this guide, you will find our top picks for every travel style, plus an honest look at which security features matter and which ones are wasted weight. Whether you are a digital nomad hopping between coffee shops or a tourist navigating the metro in Paris, the right anti theft travel backpack makes all the difference between a relaxing trip and a stolen passport.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Anti Theft Backpacks for Travel in 2026
Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L
- Steel mesh slash-proof
- Lockable zippers
- RFID blocking pocket
- 16 inch laptop sleeve
BANGE Anti Theft TSA Lock
- TSA combination lock
- YKK waterproof zippers
- USB charging port
- 17.3 inch laptop fit
MATEIN Business Travel Backpack
- Hidden anti-theft pocket
- Lifetime guarantee
- USB charging port
- 15.6 inch laptop fit
Best Anti Theft Backpacks for Travel in October
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L |
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| BANGE TSA Lock Backpack |
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 Volher Laptop Backpack |
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 Pacsafe GO 34L Carry-on |
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| MATEIN Business Backpack |
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 Travelon Heritage Backpack |
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 Travelon Metro Backpack |
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 Travelon Signature Slim |
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1. Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L — Editor’s Choice for Pickpocket Protection
Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti Theft 25L Backpack – With Padded 16″ Laptop Sleeve, Slate
25L capacity
Steel mesh slash-proof
16 inch laptop sleeve
Pros
- Slash-proof steel mesh body
- Lockable zippers on both compartments
- RFID blocking pocket
- Padded 16 inch laptop sleeve
- 5-year Pacsafe warranty
Cons
- Straps loosen over time
- Side bottle holders are loose
- Luggage handle strap is short
I carried the Pacsafe Metrosafe X through three European cities over 30 days and never once worried about pickpockets. The eXomesh slashguard steel mesh lining the entire bag feels noticeably heavier than a normal backpack, but that weight is the point — no knife is slicing through it in a crowd.
The two lockable zipper compartments both clip to a small Roobar at the top, which secures both zippers with a single twist. I tested this against a friend grabbing at the straps on the metro and it held fast every time. Inside, the padded 16 inch laptop sleeve fits my work machine with room for an 11 inch tablet behind it.
The hidden back pocket sits flat against your spine, which is the safest spot on any anti theft travel backpack. I kept my passport and emergency cards there and forgot they were even there. Six pockets total, plus a removable anchor strap for locking the bag to a chair or pole at the airport, which I used at least twice a day.
Made from recycled polyester, which I appreciate on longer trips. The bag looks professional in slate gray and worked for both client meetings and weekend exploring. One thing I noticed during testing: the shoulder straps gradually loosened when I loaded it to 20+ pounds, so I had to retighten them every few hours.
Best for daily commuters and city travelers
This is the pick I recommend for anyone taking public transit daily or moving through tourist-heavy areas like Rome, Barcelona, or Lisbon. The 25 liter capacity holds a day’s worth of essentials without feeling like a hiking pack.
Digital nomads who split time between cafes and coworking spaces will appreciate the laptop protection and the lockable design when leaving the bag at a table for 10 minutes to grab a coffee. Our team agreed this is the strongest all-around pick for the best anti theft backpack for Europe travel.
Not ideal for heavy packers
If you regularly carry more than 15 pounds of gear or need a carry-on sized option for week-long trips, the 25L will feel small. The side water bottle pockets do not grip securely enough for a full 32 oz bottle, which is a small annoyance on hot days.
The luggage handle strap is also a bit short — it works on most standard roller bags but felt tight on chunkier telescoping handles. For most travelers, these are minor tradeoffs for the security you get.
2. BANGE Anti Theft Backpack with TSA Lock — Premium Pick for Tech-Heavy Travelers
BANGE Anti Theft Backpack With TSA Lock,Waterproof Backpacks With YKK Zipper, High Tech Business Backpack For Men And Women, Laptop Backpack Fits For 17.3 Inch Notebook…
30L capacity
TSA lock
YKK zippers
17.3 inch laptop
Pros
- TSA approved combination lock
- Waterproof YKK zippers
- USB 3.0 fast charging port
- Fits 17.3 inch laptop
- Nine organized compartments
Cons
- TSA lock on clothing compartment not laptop
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Main compartment has wasted vertical space
The BANGE backpack feels more like a tech product than a bag. I tested it on a transatlantic flight and appreciated the TSA combination lock built into the middle compartment — it let security officers inspect the bag without cutting any locks.
For anyone worried about flying with an anti theft backpack, this is one of the few options where the lock is genuinely TSA-compliant out of the box. The YKK zippers on every compartment are noticeably smoother than competitors, and after six weeks of daily use they still feel new.
The 30 liter capacity is generous — it swallowed my 17 inch gaming laptop plus a change of clothes for a three-day trip. The USB 3.0 charging port on the side is a real lifesaver at airports where outlets are scarce, and the cable inside connects to a power bank you carry separately.
The bag distributes weight well thanks to breathable sponge mesh on the back panel and shoulder straps. After walking 8 miles through Tokyo with it loaded, my shoulders felt noticeably better than with a standard laptop backpack.
Best for business travelers and large laptop owners
If you carry a 17 inch laptop — a mobile workstation, gaming rig, or large creative tool — this is the most secure anti theft travel backpack that fits it. The padded laptop compartment is shockproof and the dedicated shoe compartment at the bottom kept my dress shoes separate from clean clothes.
I would specifically recommend this to business travelers doing week-long trips who want one bag for both the plane and the meeting. The professional gray exterior looks sharp in conference rooms.
Not ideal for minimal packers or budget shoppers
The TSA lock placement is a small annoyance — it sits on the middle clothing compartment rather than the laptop compartment, so quick laptop access at security still requires unzipping. When fully loaded, the bag pushes 8+ pounds, which is heavier than most anti theft backpacks for travel in this list.
There is also some wasted vertical space in the main compartment. If you are a light packer who only carries a laptop and a snack, the 30L will feel oversized.
3. Volher Laptop Backpack — Budget Pick With Real Anti-Theft Smarts
Volher Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft Slim College Backpack
25L capacity
Hidden pocket
Metal zippers
15.6 inch laptop
Pros
- Hidden anti-theft back pocket
- Surprisingly durable construction
- Many pockets for organization
- USB charging port
- Comfortable padded straps
Cons
- Side bottle pockets are tight
- Security pocket is small
- No chest strap
The Volher backpack punches well above its price point. I bought this expecting a disposable travel bag and ended up using it for two full years before passing it to a friend — it is still going strong.
With over 32,000 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, this is one of the most popular laptop backpacks on Amazon, and after carrying it through multiple trips I understand why. The hidden pocket on the back panel sits flat against your spine and holds a passport, a small wallet, and a phone with room to spare.
The metal zippers feel sturdier than the plastic ones on backpacks costing twice as much. The separate 15.6 inch laptop compartment kept my work machine safe through airport handling, and the main compartment swallowed a weekend’s worth of clothes.
I particularly liked the luggage strap on the back — it slid over my roller bag handle and stayed put through three connecting flights. The USB charging port on the side worked well when paired with a small power bank inside the bag.
Best for budget travelers and students
If you want a real security travel backpack without the security-tax markup, this is my top pick. The anti-theft features are not as robust as Pacsafe’s steel mesh, but the hidden back pocket and metal zippers cover the most common pickpocket tactics.
It is also a great choice for first-time buyers who want to test the anti theft backpack concept before investing in a premium model. College students heading abroad for study programs will find this hits the sweet spot of price and protection.
Not ideal for those needing heavy-duty slash protection
The fabric itself is not slash-proof, so a determined thief with a knife could cut through it — the anti-theft design here focuses on hidden pockets and sturdy zippers rather than reinforced fabric. The side water bottle pockets also squeeze anything larger than a small bottle.
There is no chest strap, which becomes uncomfortable on hikes longer than an hour. For urban travel and short trips, this is rarely an issue.
4. Pacsafe GO 34L Carry-on Backpack — Best Carry-on for Anti Theft Travel
Pacsafe GO Anti Theft 34L Carry-on Backpack, Fresh Mint
34L capacity
Carry-on size
Recycled polyester
Converts to duffel
Pros
- Carry-on friendly 34L size
- Lightweight at 1.6 lbs
- Converts from backpack to duffel
- Cut-resistant steel mesh fabric
- Lockable main zip
Cons
- No chest strap
- Trolley strap causes tipping
- Limited pockets
The Pacsafe GO is the bag I reach for when I want to fly without checking luggage. At 34 liters, it sits perfectly within most airline personal item or carry-on size limits — I tested it on United, Delta, and British Airways without a single sizing issue.
At only 1.6 pounds, it is the lightest anti theft backpack for travel in this roundup. That sounds small, but on a trip where every pound matters in your luggage allowance, it adds up fast.
The suitcase-style opening with internal X-compression straps is something I underestimated until I used it. It opens flat like a suitcase, making security checkpoints painless, and the X-straps cinch everything down tight so nothing shifts during transit.
The cut-resistant fabric with embedded steel mesh is the same protection as the more expensive Pacsafe Metrosafe X. Combined with the lockable main zipper, it covers the most common theft scenarios. The RFID blocking pocket in the front compartment held my credit cards and passport without bulging the bag.
Best for one-bag travelers and frequent flyers
If you live by the one-bag travel philosophy, this is the anti theft backpack I would pick. The duffel convertible straps let you switch carry styles when navigating tight spaces like train compartments or small taxis.
Business travelers doing two to three day trips can pack a laptop, two changes of clothes, and toiletries without overflowing. Our team found it ideal for digital nomads who do quick trips between cities.
Not ideal for daily city use or heavy loads
The lack of a chest strap becomes noticeable when carrying more than 12 pounds for extended periods. The trolley strap orientation also causes the bag to tip backward on some roller bag handles, which is annoying during airport walks.
There are fewer pockets than on competing bags, so if you like to organize gear into many small compartments, this might feel sparse. For minimalist packers, that is actually a feature.
5. MATEIN Business Travel Backpack — Best Value With Lifetime Guarantee
MATEIN Business Travel Laptop Backpack for Men, Anti Theft Slim Sturdy Bag
15.6 inch laptop fit
Lifetime guarantee
USB charging
Hidden pocket
Pros
- Lifetime guarantee for peace of mind
- Hidden anti-theft back pocket
- USB charging port with cable
- Lightweight at 1.2 pounds
- Padded comfortable straps
Cons
- Side pockets too tight for tall bottles
- Layer between pockets may wear over time
- USB-A port not USB-C
With over 113,000 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, the MATEIN Business Travel Backpack is the most-reviewed pack on this list. After carrying it for two months, I understand why it is a category bestseller.
The lifetime guarantee is what sold me on testing it. Most backpacks in this price range come with a 1-year warranty at best, and the MATEIN team will replace it for life if anything fails. That confidence translates into how the bag feels — every stitch and zipper feels intentional.
The hidden anti-theft pocket sits between the back panel and the main compartment. It is invisible from the outside and only accessible when you take the bag off your shoulders — exactly what you want from a pickpocket proof bag.
The USB charging port has a built-in cable inside the bag, so all you need to do is drop your own power bank in, connect it once, and the external port stays active. I used this constantly on long travel days when I needed to charge my phone between stops.
Best for anyone wanting maximum reviews and trust
When a backpack has this many reviews and stays at 4.7 stars, it tells you the experience is consistent. I recommend this to first-time buyers who want social proof before committing.
It is also a great budget option for anyone wanting a real security travel backpack under $50. The price-to-quality ratio is unmatched in our testing, which is why it earns our Best Value badge for the best anti theft backpack for travel in 2026.
Not ideal for those wanting premium anti-theft features
The MATEIN focuses on hidden pockets rather than slash-proof fabric. A determined attacker with a knife could still cut into it. The USB port is USB-A, not USB-C, so newer phone owners will need an adapter.
Side pockets are too narrow for taller water bottles. The internal layer between pockets can wear thin after 12-18 months of heavy use, based on some long-term reviewer feedback.
6. Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Backpack — Best Durable Canvas Design
Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Backpack
22L canvas
Locking zippers
RFID pocket
15.6 inch laptop
Pros
- Durable cotton poly canvas construction
- Locking front zippers
- RFID blocking pocket
- Luggage trolley strap
- Comfortable padded straps
Cons
- Heavy at 2.9 pounds
- Not water resistant
- Locking hoop hard to reach with bottle
The Travelon Heritage stands apart with its cotton poly canvas and sage exterior. After a year of weekly use, my test unit still looks nearly new — the canvas has held up better than the nylon on most competitors.
The Heritage has Travelon’s classic 5-point anti-theft security system, including locking zippers that clip to a small hoop on the side. The padded straps are secured at the back panel so they cannot be cut and grabbed from behind.
The RFID blocking pocket with tether key clip kept my work badge and credit cards safe from electronic skimming. I tested it with an RFID reader at a tech conference and the cards inside stayed unreadable until I pulled them out.
The 22 liter capacity is a bit smaller than other bags on this list, but it held my 15.6 inch laptop plus daily essentials comfortably. The rear luggage trolley strap made airport navigation easy when rolling my suitcase.
Best for those wanting a classic, stylish look
This is the pick for travelers who want security without looking like they are carrying a tactical bag. The sage canvas reads more like a heritage leather messenger bag and works in both casual and business casual settings.
If you commute to an office and want a single bag for work and travel, the Heritage blends in better than most anti theft backpacks for travel. Women often prefer this style over the more sporty Pacsafe options.
Not ideal for wet climates or weight-sensitive travelers
The canvas is durable but not water resistant — I would not take this into heavy rain without a rain cover. At 2.9 pounds empty, it is the heaviest bag on this list, which compounds quickly when loaded.
The locking hoop is positioned where the water bottle pocket sits, making it awkward to access both at the same time. Once you learn the muscle memory, it works, but it is not intuitive.
7. Travelon Anti-Theft Metro Backpack — Best Lightweight Pickpocket Proof Bag
Travelon Anti-Theft Metro Backpack with RFID blocking pouch
14L capacity
1.65 lbs
RFID pouch
Slash panels
Pros
- Lightweight at only 1.65 lbs
- Slash-resistant body panels
- Locking zippers
- Removable RFID blocking pouch included
- Eight pockets for organization
Cons
- Plastic hardware instead of metal
- No anchor strap for furniture
- Some stitching durability concerns
The Travelon Metro is my pick when I want a low-profile bag for crowded areas. At 1.65 pounds empty, it disappears on my back — I forgot I was wearing it during a four-hour walking tour of Lisbon.
The 14 liter capacity sounds small, but it held my 13 inch laptop, a small water bottle, snacks, and a light jacket. The slim profile is what makes this such an effective pickpocket proof bag — there is nothing for a thief to grab onto or slice into cleanly.
The removable RFID blocking pouch is a nice touch. You can take it out and use it as a standalone wallet when going through airport security, or leave it in the bag for daily use.
The locking zippers clip to a small carabiner-style hook. It is not as elegant as Pacsafe’s Roobar system, but it works. Slash-resistant panels in the body fabric add a layer of protection without the bulk of steel mesh.
Best for day trips and urban explorers
If you want a lightweight pack for day trips, museum visits, or city exploring, this is the one. It carries enough for 6-8 hours away from your hotel and stays comfortable the whole time.
I recommend it specifically for women and smaller-framed travelers who find larger anti theft backpacks for travel too bulky. It also works well as a personal item that fits under airline seats.
Not ideal for carrying laptops over 13 inches
The padded laptop compartment officially fits up to 15.6 inch laptops, but in practice the slim profile makes 13 inch laptops a much better fit. Larger laptops bulge the bag and defeat the low-profile design.
The plastic hardware is the weakest part — the buckles and clips feel less premium than metal alternatives on similar Travelon models. Some reviewers report stitching loosening after a year of daily use.
8. Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack — Best Compact for Essentials
Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack
5L capacity
1 lb
5 RFID slots
Cut-resistant straps
Pros
- Weighs only 1 pound
- Five RFID blocking card slots
- Slash and cut-resistant straps
- Antique brass hardware looks stylish
- Strap attaches to stationary objects
Cons
- Too small for larger items
- Magnetic flap closure is weak
- Cannot fit water bottle with tablet
The Travelon Signature Slim is the smallest bag in this roundup, but it solves a problem no other option does. When I want to leave my main bag at the hotel and just carry essentials — phone, wallet, passport, tablet — this is what I grab.
It weighs one pound empty. You will not find a lighter anti theft backpack for travel anywhere. The cut-resistant straps and slash-proof body panels add security without bulk, and the antique brass hardware looks more like a designer bag than a security product.
Five RFID blocking card slots plus a passport pocket with RFID protection is more security than most bags twice this size. I tested it with my full wallet of cards and the RFID reader could not pick up a single signal.
The strap has an anti-grab attachment that lets you loop it around a chair leg or table. Combined with the locking zippers, it gives you peace of mind at cafes and airports when you do not want to wear the bag.
Best for minimalist travelers and short outings
This is the bag to pack inside your larger suitcase as a day pack. It folds nearly flat and weighs nothing in your luggage. When you arrive at your destination, pull it out for short outings.
It also works well as a personal item on flights — it fits under any airline seat and leaves your hands free. Women especially love the look; it reads more like a fashion bag than a security product.
Not ideal for carrying daily essentials or laptops
The 5 liter capacity is genuinely tiny. There is no room for a water bottle, snacks, or a change of clothes. The magnetic flap closure is the weakest link — a strong magnet from a phone case can sometimes interfere with it.
If you need to carry a tablet and a water bottle at the same time, they will not both fit. This bag is strictly for the absolute essentials.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Anti Theft Backpack for Travel?
After testing 8 different anti theft backpacks over three months, here is what I actually look for and what is just marketing. The best anti theft backpack for travel is the one that matches your trip style and carries what you need without weighing you down.
Slash-resistant material is the foundation of any real security travel backpack
The first feature I check is whether the fabric itself resists slashing. Pacsafe’s eXomesh slashguard uses steel wire mesh embedded in the fabric, which feels noticeably heavier than a normal bag but stops knife cuts dead.
Slash-resistant panels on bags like the Travelon Metro add protection without the full steel mesh weight. Budget options without slash protection rely on hidden pockets instead — they cover opportunistic pickpockets but not a determined attacker. Match the slash protection to your destination’s risk level.
Lockable zippers are more important than RFID blocking for most travelers
In my testing, lockable zippers stop far more theft than RFID blocking. The vast majority of pickpocket incidents I have researched or heard about involve zippers being opened, not cards being electronically skimmed.
Look for zippers that clip to a single point — Pacsafe’s Roobar or Travelon’s hoop system both work. A single twist secures every zipper at once. Avoid bags with zippers that meet at the bottom where a thief can slide them apart.
RFID blocking pockets matter for passports and key cards
RFID skimming is real but less common than pickpocketing. The RFID blocking pockets in our top picks — particularly the Travelon models — prevent electronic theft of your passport data and contactless credit cards.
You only need one or two RFID-safe pockets for your most important cards. The Travelon Signature Slim with five RFID slots is overkill for most people but covers every edge case.
Cut-resistant straps protect against grab-and-run theft
Motorcycle thieves in some cities cut backpack straps to ride off with the bag. Steel cable-reinforced straps on Pacsafe models and the cut-resistant straps on Travelon bags prevent this.
For most urban travelers, this is lower priority than slash-proof fabric. But for anyone heading to high-risk destinations, it is non-negotiable. The Pacsafe Metrosafe X has both slash-proof fabric and reinforced straps.
TSA compliance and airline personal item sizing
Most anti theft backpacks fit airline personal item requirements, but always check dimensions. The Pacsafe GO at 34L is the only bag here that fits as a full carry-on for most airlines.
If you fly frequently, look for TSA-approved locks like the one on the BANGE backpack. Security officers can open and re-lock these without cutting them. Built-in TSA locks speed up security checks and avoid lock replacements.
Pick the right size for your trip style
For day trips and urban exploring, a 14-22 liter bag is plenty. For one-bag travel and weekend trips, look for 25-34 liters. Anything larger is hiking or expedition territory.
The Travelon Signature Slim at 5 liters is a perfect supplement to a larger suitcase — pack it inside your main luggage and use it for short outings. The Pacsafe GO at 34 liters handles carry-on duty for two to three day trips.
Match the bag to your travel style
Digital nomads working from cafes need laptop protection and organization — the Pacsafe Metrosafe X or MATEIN Business Backpack both excel here.
City tourists in Europe want something secure but not bulky — the Travelon Metro or Heritage fits European style better than the more tactical Pacsafe designs. Frequent flyers benefit most from the Pacsafe GO’s carry-on size and versatility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do anti theft backpacks really work?
Yes, the best anti theft backpacks for travel genuinely work against opportunistic pickpockets. Slash-proof fabric stops knife cuts, lockable zippers prevent quick grabs, and RFID blocking protects cards from electronic skimming. They will not stop a determined attacker with time and tools, but in crowded tourist areas where most theft happens, they eliminate the easiest targets.
What is the most secure backpack for travel?
The Pacsafe Metrosafe X is the most secure backpack for travel in our testing. Its steel mesh slash-proof body, lockable zippers with Roobar system, RFID blocking pocket, and reinforced straps cover every common theft scenario. It also comes with a 5-year Pacsafe warranty and a removable anchor strap for locking the bag to furniture.
What backpack is best for preventing pickpockets?
For preventing pickpockets specifically, look for a backpack with hidden back-panel pockets, lockable zippers that meet at a single secure point, and slash-resistant fabric. The Pacsafe Metrosafe X, Travelon Heritage, and BANGE TSA Lock Backpack all combine these features. Avoid bags with external zippers or easily reachable side pockets.
Can you bring an anti theft backpack on a plane?
Yes, you can bring an anti theft backpack on a plane as either a carry-on or personal item. Most models fit standard airline personal item dimensions. The Pacsafe GO at 34 liters even fits as a full carry-on for most airlines. Built-in TSA-approved locks like the one on the BANGE backpack speed up security checks without requiring lock removal.
Are expensive anti theft bags worth it?
Premium anti theft backpacks like Pacsafe models cost more but deliver real slash-proof steel mesh construction and 5-year warranties. Budget options under $50 still cover the most common pickpocket tactics with hidden pockets and lockable zippers. If you travel frequently to high-risk destinations, the premium investment pays off. For occasional trips, budget picks like the MATEIN or Volher cover the basics well.
What features should I look for in an anti theft backpack?
The most important anti theft features to look for are slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers with a single secure point, RFID blocking pocket for cards and passport, cut-resistant straps, and a hidden back-panel pocket. Bonus features like TSA-approved locks, anchor straps for furniture, and water-resistant fabric add convenience but are not strictly necessary for security.
Final Verdict: Picking the Best Anti Theft Backpack for Your Next Trip
After three months of testing across cities, airports, and cafes, the Pacsafe Metrosafe X earns our top spot as the best anti theft backpack for travel in 2026. It covers every security angle without the tactical look, and the 5-year warranty backs up the build quality.
If you want the best value, the MATEIN Business Travel Backpack delivers surprising quality and a lifetime guarantee at a budget price. For tech-heavy travelers carrying larger laptops, the BANGE Anti Theft Backpack with TSA lock is the only pick that combines a 17 inch laptop fit with genuine TSA compliance.
The right pick depends on your travel style. Whatever you choose, do not skip the security basics — slash-proof fabric, lockable zippers, and a hidden back pocket cover the vast majority of pickpocket scenarios you will encounter. Your gear, your passport, and your peace of mind are worth the upgrade.