Why Tourists Are Prime Targets for Pickpockets (And What to Do About It)
The best anti theft backpack for tourists options in 2024 — ranked by security, value, and real traveler reviews:
| Backpack | Price | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack | ~$35-45 | 35L | Budget travelers |
| Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack | ~$40-55 | 40L | Everyday travel |
| SHRRADOO Anti-Theft Backpack | ~$30-45 | 40L | Budget day trips |
| Baggallini Securtex | $120 | Medium | Vacation travel |
| Pacsafe CX 17L | $189.95 | 17L | City & flights |
| Pacsafe V 26L | ~$199+ | 26L | International trips |
| Pacsafe EXP45 | $289.95 | 45L | Carry-on travel |
Picture this: you’re in a busy metro station abroad, backpack on your back, completely unaware that a stranger has quietly unzipped your bag. It happens constantly to tourists in crowded cities around the world.
Pickpockets target tourists because tourists stand out. They look distracted, carry valuables, and often use bags with easy-access zippers.
The good news? The right backpack makes you a much harder target.
Anti-theft backpacks use features like slash-resistant panels, locking zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and cut-resistant straps to stop the most common theft methods cold. And you don’t have to spend a fortune — there are solid options starting under $40.
Whether you’re planning a weekend city break or a multi-week international trip, there’s a secure backpack built for your budget and your needs.
Essential Features of an anti theft backpack for tourists
When we talk about a “shield” for your belongings, we aren’t just using a metaphor. A true anti theft backpack for tourists is engineered with specific hardware designed to frustrate even the most experienced pickpockets. If a thief sees a bag that looks like a fortress, they are much more likely to move on to an easier target.
Here are the non-negotiable features we look for:
- Locking Zippers and Secure Tabs: The most common theft is the “zip-and-dip.” High-quality bags like the Pacsafe® V 26L Anti-Theft Tour Backpack use Roobar™ Sport locking systems or secure zip tabs that make it impossible for someone to pull your zipper open while you’re walking.
- Slash-Resistant Panels: In some high-risk areas, thieves use small blades to slit the bottom or sides of a bag so the contents fall out. Look for bags with eXomesh® or similar steel wire mesh embedded in the fabric.
- Cut-Resistant Straps: A “snatch-and-run” involves cutting the shoulder strap. Security-focused bags reinforce straps with double stainless steel wires (like Carrysafe® technology) so they can’t be sliced through.
- RFID Protection: Digital pickpocketing is a real concern. RFID-blocking pockets prevent thieves from using scanners to steal the data from your credit cards and passports.
- Hidden Pockets: The best place for your passport and emergency cash is against your back. Many of these backpacks feature “secret” compartments that are inaccessible while the bag is being worn.
- 4-Point Technology: Some premium brands, such as Baggallini with their Securtex® line, use a 4-point system that combines slash-resistance, locking hardware, cut-resistant straps, and RFID protection into one cohesive design.
Integrating these features into your travel setup is one of the smartest moves you can make. If you’re looking for more ways to protect your wallet without breaking the bank, check out our guide on how to stay-safe-with-budget-travel-safety-gear.
Top-Rated Affordable Models for Every Traveler
You don’t always need to spend $200 to get a great anti theft backpack for tourists. In fact, some of the most popular models on the market are surprisingly affordable. We’ve analyzed thousands of reviews to find the ones that actually hold up in the real world.
The Budget Heavyweights: MATEIN, Tzowla, and SHRRADOO
If you are looking for maximum value, these three brands dominate the market.
- MATEIN: This is a powerhouse in the travel world, with over 103,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating. It features a hidden anti-theft pocket on the back and is built with durable, water-resistant polyester. It’s a fantastic choice for those who need a reliable bag for under $50.
- Tzowla: With over 50,000 reviews, Tzowla offers a fixed password lock and durable metal zippers. It’s highly popular for its combination of security and tech-friendly features like a built-in USB port.
- SHRRADOO: Another high-performer, this bag is often bought by the thousands every month. It’s known for being spacious and including a sturdy luggage strap for airport travel.
The Stylish Specialist: Baggallini Securtex
For those who want something that looks less like a “tech bag” and more like a stylish vacation accessory, the Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack is a top contender. Priced around $120, it uses trademarked technology and comes in various fabric options like TruNylon or recycled ripstop. It’s water-repellent and specifically designed to keep you organized on a multi-day trip.
Sustainability Meets Security
We are seeing a great trend toward eco-friendly materials. Many premium bags now use rPET (recycled polyester) made from post-consumer plastic bottles. For example, some Pacsafe models use the equivalent of 30 to 60 recycled bottles per bag! This means you can protect your gear and the planet at the same time. For more options on long-lasting gear, see our list of durable-and-cheap-travel-backpacks-for-long-trips.
Best anti theft backpack for tourists with Laptops
For the digital nomad or the professional traveler, a dedicated laptop compartment is a must. However, a standard laptop bag is often a “steal me” sign. The best anti-theft versions hide the laptop sleeve deep inside or against the back panel.
- Pacsafe® EXP35: This is a versatile 35L beast. It features a hidden, lockable back compartment that fits a 16-inch MacBook Pro. You can read more about its specs here: Pacsafe® EXP35 anti-theft travel backpack.
- Tech Features: Many affordable models from Tzowla and MATEIN include USB charging ports. While the bag doesn’t come with a battery, it has an internal cable that lets you connect your power bank, so you can charge your phone while walking through a new city without exposing your electronics.
How to Choose an anti theft backpack for tourists Based on Trip Length
Size matters! A bag that is too big will be a burden on a day trip, while a bag that is too small won’t last you a weekend.
- Day Trips (15L – 20L): Perfect for a water bottle, a light jacket, and your camera. The Pacsafe CX 17L is a favorite for city explorers because it’s “ultra-chic” and fits under an airplane seat as a personal item.
- Weekend Getaways (25L – 30L): The Pacsafe V 26L offers three separate lockable compartments, making it easy to organize clothes and tech for a 2-day trip.
- Multi-Day / Carry-On Only (35L – 45L): If you’re a “one-bag” traveler, look at the Pacsafe EXP45. It meets most airline carry-on restrictions and has enough room for a week’s worth of clothes if you pack smart.
For more advice on choosing the right volume for your journey, visit our guide on top-budget-backpacks-for-long-trips.
Comparing Security, Capacity, and Value
Choosing the right anti theft backpack for tourists often comes down to balancing your budget with the level of risk at your destination. If you’re heading to a city known for aggressive pickpocketing, spending a bit more on a bag with slash-proof mesh is a wise investment.
| Feature | Budget Models (Tzowla/MATEIN) | Mid-Range (Baggallini) | Premium (Pacsafe) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $30 – $60 | $80 – $130 | $150 – $290 |
| Primary Security | Hidden pockets, basic locks | Locking zips, RFID | Slash-proof mesh, locking bars |
| Durability | Good for casual use | High-quality nylon | Extreme (5-year warranties) |
| Best Use Case | Domestic travel, students | Vacationers, city tours | International, high-risk areas |
Real-World Comfort and Reviews
A bag can be as secure as a safe, but if it hurts your shoulders, you’ll hate using it. Customer reviews consistently highlight a few key comfort features:
- Weight Distribution: Look for padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap to keep the weight off your lower back.
- Breathability: Mesh back panels help prevent the dreaded “sweaty back” during summer tours in Rome or Bangkok.
- Weight: That anti-theft features (like steel mesh) add weight. A premium 25L anti-theft bag might weigh around 2.2 lbs, which is slightly heavier than a standard school backpack.
Pro Tip: Many travelers are now adding tracker tags (like AirTags) to hidden internal pockets. This adds an extra layer of security if your bag is ever misplaced by an airline or left behind at a cafe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Security
What is the typical cost of a high-quality anti-theft bag?
You can find entry-level security bags for $35 to $55. These usually offer hidden pockets and basic zipper locks. For professional-grade protection (slash-proof mesh and advanced locking bars), expect to pay between $120 and $280. While the upfront cost is higher, it is much cheaper than replacing a $1,000 smartphone and a stolen passport mid-trip.
Do anti-theft features really stop pickpockets?
They are highly effective against opportunistic thieves. Most pickpockets look for the easiest victim. If your zippers are locked and your straps can’t be cut, a thief will likely move on to someone with a standard open tote bag. However, no bag is a substitute for situational awareness. Always keep your bag in sight!
Can these backpacks be used as personal items on flights?
Generally, yes. Most backpacks under 30 Liters (like the 17L Pacsafe CX) will fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Larger 45L bags are designed to be “carry-on” items that go in the overhead bin. Always check your specific airline’s dimensions before heading to the airport.
Conclusion
At FinanceZora, we believe that travel should be about making memories, not worrying about your wallet. Investing in a high-quality anti theft backpack for tourists is one of the most practical ways to protect your financial health while exploring the world.
Whether you choose a budget-friendly MATEIN for a quick weekend trip or a premium Pacsafe for a month-long European adventure, the peace of mind you’ll gain is priceless. Remember to combine your new gear with smart habits: wear your bag on your front in extremely crowded subways, use a phone lanyard, and always stay aware of your surroundings.
Ready to gear up for your next adventure? Explore more essential travel gear on our main page for more tips on traveling safely and affordably. Safe travels!
