Top 21 Best Anti-Theft Backpacks • (Ultimate 2024 Reviews)

Last updated Feb 15, 2024

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

On the hunt for the best anti-theft backpack on the market? Whether you’re embarking on a weekend journey or traveling aimlessly around the world, I’ve got you covered!

This guide is so handy and thorough that you can also use it to choose the best travel backpacks in general. In my opinion, anti-theft features are necessary to have in any travel pack.

Since 2014, I’ve been living the digital nomad lifestyle, and it’s been one heck of a journey. I’ve condensed my years of nomadic knowledge into this complete buyer’s guide to help you make the best buying decision in the least amount of time. You’re going to love the table below, I promise.

Let’s dive right into my top picks! (Please excuse the exclamation marks, I get excited when I drink green tea and talk travel.)

Anti-Theft Backpack Comparison

Bag NamePriceMax Laptop SizeBuilt-in Zipper LockExternal USB PortRear Hidden PocketLuggage StrapCheckpoint FriendlyRFID BlockingSlash-Proof

Tzowla

Full Review

$$16"YESYESNOYESYESNOYES

Inateck 40L

Full Review

$$17"NONOYESYESYESNONO

All4way Swiss Design

Full Review

$$17"NOYESYESYESNOYESNO

Pacsafe Venturesafe

Full Review

$$15"YESNONONONOYESYES

Yoreprek

Full Review

$$17"NOYESYESYESYESNONO

VBG VBIGER

Full Review

$17"YESYESYESYESNONONO

Korin ClickPack Pro

Full Review

$$$15.6"YESYESNONOYESNOYES

NOMATIC 30L

Full Review

$$$$15.6" SlimNONONOYESYESYESNO

Matein

Full Review

$15.6"NOYESYESYESNONONO

DTBG

Full Review

$15.6"NOYESYESYESNONONO

eBags Professional

Full Review

$$$17"NONONOYESNONONO

VSNOON

Full Review

$15.6"NOYESYESYESNONONO

AOKING

Full Review

$$15.6"NOYESYESYESYESNONO

HiOrange

Full Review

$15.6"NOYESYESNONONONO

KAKA

Full Review

$17"YES (includes lock)NONONONONONO

Tigernu Slim

Full Review

$15.6"NONOYESNONONONO

Oscaurt

Full Review

$15.6"NOYESYESYESYESNONO

Samsonite GT

Full Review

$$15.6"NONONOYESNOYESNO

Kopack

Full Review

$$15.6" or 17"NOYESYESYESYESNONO

Bobby XL

Full Review

$$$17"NOYESYESYESYESNOYES

Travelon Classic L

Full Review

$$15.6"YESNONONONOYESYES

Anti-Theft Backpack Reviews

In each of the following sections, you’ll find all the information you need to land on the right backpack for your intended use(s).

#1) Tzowla Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack w/ TSA Lock

Tzowla laptop back is the Swiss Army knife of carry-on travel backpacks that comes with a great set of anti-theft features. The cherry on top is it’s more affordable than other backpacks with the same features.

Features

  • Lifetime warranty with 24-hour customer support
  • TSA 180-degree lay-flat features allow you to open the bag without taking your laptop out while going through the security checkpoint
  • TSA-approved combination lock installed in the fabric to lock the main compartment zippers
  • Sturdy zippers all around that accept luggage locks
  • Padded laptop compartment fits up to a 16″ laptop w/ separate tablet compartment
  • Tons of internal and exterior organization options
  • Water-resistant materials throughout
  • Includes a thick luggage strap to keep your bag secured to your rolling suitcase in the airport and an adjustable sternum strap for extra comfort
  • Sturdy top handle
  • External USB port for charging your cell phone without opening your bag (power bank not included) and a headphone port
  • Dimensions: 18.11″ x 11.8″ x 8.27″ (Height x Width x Depth)
  • Weight: 2.56 lbs
Pros
  • Superior Internal Organization
  • TSA zipper lock makes travel super convenient
  • Wide luggage strap keeps the bag secure atop your rolling suitcase
  • Lay-flat design feature for TSA security checkpoint at airports
  • Super affordable
Cons
  • Too small for longer journeys
  • Lacks anti-theft features included on pricier bags
  • Not the most glamorous design

#2) Inateck 40L Travel Backpack (Two sizes for 15.6″ and 17″ laptops)

Here’s another bag with premium features minus the premium price tag. It doesn’t pack all the anti-theft features found on bags built exclusively for anti-theft, but I think it does include two of the most important ones. It’s also perhaps the best overall travel backpack included on this list.

Features

  • Two sizes: the 40-liter model can handle a 17″ laptop while the slightly smaller edition holds up to a 15.6″ laptop
  • Stowable shoulder straps allow you to hold the bag horizontally using the sturdy side handle
  • Two main compartments, a tablet sleeve for up to a 13″ tablet, a separate toiletry pocket, and more organization pockets
  • Rain cover included
  • Sturdy zippers include holes for your luggage lock of choice
  • Hidden anti-theft pocket on the back panel
  • Wide shoulder straps for extra comfort and a sternum strap to keep weight evenly distributed
  • Durable scratch & splash-resistant materials
  • Luggage strap at the back panel to hook onto a rolling suitcase
  • Dimensions: 21″ x 13″ x 7″ (Height x Width x Depth) for the 17″ version and 18.9″ x 11.8″ x 7″ for the 15.6″ version
  • Weight: 3.63 pounds for 17″ version and 3.36 pounds for 15.6″ version
Pros
  • Durable and loaded with useful travel features
  • Attractive design
  • Hidden back panel pocket
  • Included rain cover
  • Toiletry compartment
  • Large capacity for longer trips
Cons
  • Need to buy travel locks for full security
  • Heavier than other bags on the list
  • Need to reach down into the bag for access

Note: It’s not in English, but the demonstration is great nonetheless.

#3) All4way Swiss Design Anti Theft Laptop Backpack

The All4way Swiss Design Anti-Theft Backpack is a great choice for business travelers. This bag has an attractive, sleek design and comes loaded with anti-theft features, including built-in RFID pockets to protect your identity & credit card information while in transit.

Features

  • Shockproof laptop compartment fits up to a 17″ laptop
  • Built-in RFID pockets for identity and credit card information protection
  • Reflective zippers
  • Hidden pocket in the back panel to stow valuables
  • Zippers on the main compartment include holes to pass a luggage lock through
  • An external USB port for charging your cell phone
  • S-shaped padded shoulder straps keep your back cozy during long walks or hauls
  • Waterproof materials
  • Sunglasses strap and key holder
  • 1-year warranty
  • Dimensions: 19.3″ x 14.2″ x 7.5″ (Height x Width x Depth)
  • Weight: 2.43 lbs
  • Company headquarters located in Switzerland
Pros
  • RFID pockets built into the bag
  • Comes in two sizes
  • Hidden back panel pocket
  • Shockproof laptop sleeve
  • Swiss quality
  • Rain cover and external USB port included
Cons
  • No 180-degree lay-flat feature
  • Main compartment zippers don’t go to the bottom of the bag
  • No sternum strap
  • Pricier than budget bags

#4) Pacsafe Venturesafe GII 25-Liter

This list wouldn’t be complete without one of Pacsafe’s best anti-theft bags. While this bag does cost a bit more than the bags before it, you get what you pay for when you invest in a Pacsafe pack. Pacsafe is one of the leaders/pioneers in the burgeoning anti-theft gear industry.

Features

  • Padded and suspended internal laptop sleeve holds up to a 15″ notebook computer
  • Slash-proof materials incorporate steel mesh to keep thieves out
  • Internal RFID pocket for credit/debit cards, passport, and other items that include sensitive personal information
  • Built for rugged travel: premium breathable back support panel, hip & sternum straps, padded shoulder straps, and side pockets for water bottle or umbrella
  • Water-resistant materials
  • 5-year Pacsafe warranty
  • Capacity: 25 liters
  • Dimensions: 19.7″ Height x 11.4″ Width x 7.9″ Depth
  • Super lightweight at just 2.08 lbs
Pros
  • Great for hiking trips
  • Premium anti-theft features
  • Replaces outdated packs used by backpackers
  • Internal RFID pocket
  • Superior comfort
  • Built-in zipper clips keep pickpockets out
  • Comes in two sizes
Cons
  • Not intended for business travel
  • Higher price than budget anti-theft bags
  • No luggage strap on back panel

It also comes in black.

#5) Yoreprek Anti-Theft TSA Laptop Backpack

Behold the Yoreprek laptop travel backpack. The Yoreprek is certainly in the conversation for the best tech travel backpacks in 2021. It doesn’t include all the premium anti-theft features you’ll find in a Pacsafe or Travelon bag, however, it does include enough of them to get you by and add its name to my ultimate list.

Features

  • Padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 17″ laptop
  • Includes more than 20 organizer pockets
  • External USB port with included headphone port
  • Anti-tear and water-resistant materials
  • Hidden zippered anti-theft pocket in back panel
  • Zippers include holes to easily hook through locks
  • Luggage strap to hook onto a rolling suitcase
  • TSA-friendly lay-flat feature allows you to skip the annoying part where you have to take out your laptop
  • Rugged top handle
  • Adjustable padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel
  • Massive 50-liter capacity
  • Dimensions: 20.2″ Height x 15.8″ Width x 11.8″ Depth
  • Weight: 2.5 lbs
Pros
  • Ultimate convenience with tons of useful features
  • Big enough to get by on longer trips
  • Includes luggage strap for hooking atop a rolling suitcase
  • External USB port for charging your phone on the go
  • Lay-flat feature and side compression straps
  • Low price tag
Cons
  • Too large for some uses
  • Lacks several anti-theft features

#6) VBG VBIGER Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

Here’s one of my top picks in the looks department. I love that this pack includes a zipper lock and has a sleek outer appearance without too many bells and whistles dangling from it. Let’s take a look at what makes this bag one of the best anti-theft backpacks for travel.

Features

  • Fits up to a 17″ laptop
  • Anti-theft features: combination lock at zippers, durable zippers for use with luggage locks, and a hidden zipper pocket in the back panel
  • An external USB port for charging your phone without opening the bag
  • Small reflective strip for safer walks at night
  • Made with tear & scratch-resistant materials
  • S-shaped padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel
  • Dimensions: 11.4″ Wide x 6.3″ Depth x 17.3″ Height
  • Weight: 2.16 pounds
Pros
  • Sleek appearance makes it versatile
  • Built-in combination zipper lock is handy
  • Sturdy top handle
  • Ample internal organization
  • Fits all laptops up to 17″
  • External USB port
  • Hidden stash pocket in back panel
  • Luggage strap to hook to a rolling suitcase
  • Super affordable
Cons
  • No RFID pockets
  • No TSA-friendly lay-flat feature

#7) Korin Design ClickPack Pro Anti-Theft Backpack

Korin’s ClickPack Pro is a premium anti-theft bag designed for travel and everyday use. It costs more than the budget bags on this list and comes packed with brilliant features you won’t find in other bags. Let’s see if you fall in love with this bag the same way I did.

Features

  • The laptop sleeve holds up to a 15.6″ laptop and a separate tablet sleeve holds up to a 10″ tablet
  • True slash-resistant fabric keeps out sneaky pickpockets
  • Built-in TSA-approved combination zipper lock at main compartment
  • Retractable cable lock allows you to attach the bag to any fixed object, essentially turning the bag into a portable safe
  • Included RFID protection for your passport and credit cards
  • External USB port for easy cell phone charging on the go
  • TSA-friendly lay-flat feature for airport security checkpoints
  • Hidden easy-access pockets in shoulder straps
  • Included rain cover and internal storage bags
  • Special design ensures the bag hugs your back and evenly distributes the weight of the bag
  • Sturdy top handle and key ring
  • Dimensions: 17.7″ Height x 11.8″ Width x 6.3″ Depth
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs
Pros
  • Awesome convenience
  • Retractable cable lock is unique and super useful
  • Attractive design
  • Premium quality features and materials
  • Internal storage bags and rain cover included
  • TSA lay-flat feature
Cons
  • Too small for extended travel
  • Higher price tag
  • No luggage strap to hook to a rolling suitcase
  • No sternum strap

#8) NOMATIC 30L Anti-Theft Travel Pack

Now for the most premium and expensive bag on the list, the NOMATIC 30L Travel Pack. Similar to the Korin bag, the NOMATIC comes equipped with brilliant features and design elements.

Personally, I love the look of this bag and would feel proud to sport it while traveling. However, it’s important to keep in mind that an expensive-looking bag can draw unwanted attention.

Features

  • Fits up to 15″ slim laptops in a zippered laptop compartment (keep this in mind if you own a thicker laptop)
  • Approved as a carry-on bag for most airlines
  • Made of durable water-resistant Kodra Tarpaulin
  • Includes RFID pocket
  • Internal mesh divider to separate your clothes from your electronics
  • 180-degree lay-flat feature for TSA checkpoints
  • Waterproof “Kiss-lock” zippers
  • Charging cable pass-through in all major compartments
  • Separate tablet sleeve
  • Magnetic water bottle pocket
  • Luggage strap to connect to a rolling suitcase
  • Side handle to hold horizontally like a briefcase
  • Retractable key leash
  • Includes a compression packing cube and hard sunglasses shell
  • An expandable option allows you to choose between 20L and 30L capacity
  • Dimensions: 18.5″ Height x 6″ Depth x 12″ Wide
  • Weight: 4 lbs
Pros
  • Slim profile with the expandable option
  • Premium materials and anti-theft features
  • Stylish design
  • Super versatile
Cons
  • Heavier than other bags
  • Most expensive

#9) Matein Anti-Theft Business Travel Backpack review

Now, let’s get back to the best budget anti-theft travel backpacks. Previously, I shared my Matein backpack review, and I decided to add it here as a top pick. This backpack is full of great features and has a lot to offer every type of user.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop
  • Includes luggage strap to easily hook bag atop your rolling suitcase (this is a must-have feature for me)
  • Custom-fitted shoulder straps help evenly distribute the weight of the bag
  • External and internal organization pockets
  • Elastic mesh side pockets to hold water bottles or other items
  • External USB port for charging your cell phone and other USB devices
  • Hidden anti-theft zippered pocket in back panel
  • Water-resistant materials
  • Dimensions: 18″ Height x 12″ Width x 7.8″ Depth
  • Weight: 2.05 lbs
Pros
  • Easy on the wallet
  • Packed with useful features
  • Sleek design
  • Versatile: great for students, adventure travelers, business travelers
Cons
  • Lacks premium anti-theft features
  • Too small for extended journeys

#10) DTBG Anti-Theft Business Travel Backpack

Here’s another budget anti-theft travel bag that’s slipped under the radar for most people. It currently has less feedback than the other bags on this list, however, it comes with some compelling features not included in other bags.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop and 9.7″ tablet
  • The main compartment sits against your back for extra security and opens at a 90-degree angle for easy access
  • External USB port for charging USB devices including your cell phone on the go, plus an earphone port
  • Anti-theft zippers stay concealed
  • Hidden anti-theft pocket in back panel
  • Constructed with durable oxford fabric that is both tear & water-resistant
  • Zippered card pocket in the shoulder strap
  • Luggage strap to hook it to a rolling suitcase
  • Dimensions: 17.7″ Height x 12.2″ Width x 3.9″ Depth
  • Super lightweight: 1.52 lbs
Pros
  • Crazy low price
  • Tons of features for this price
  • Unique design
  • Hidden zippers to keep pickpockets out
Cons
  • Missing premium anti-theft features
  • Less feedback than other bags

#11) eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

Now we’re moving back into the more premium class with the eBags Professional Slim backpack. I had previously included this bag in my reviews of the best anti-theft backpacks for business travelers, and I decided it deserves a spot on my ultimate list.

Features

  • Holds up to a 17″ laptop and includes separate tablet compartment
  • Comes in four attractive colors
  • Includes a removable crush-proof container for fragile items like sunglasses
  • Includes luggage strap for connecting to a rolling suitcase
  • Shoulder straps can be stowed away to carry the bag horizontally by the handle like a briefcase (great for business travelers)
  • Diagonal stash pocket in the middle compartment
  • Removable adjustable sternum strap
  • Zippers include holes to add luggage locks
  • Capacity: 21.5 liters
  • Dimensions: 18″ Height x 12.75″ Width x 8.5″ Depth
  • Weight: 3.3 lbs
Pros
  • More stylish than other bags
  • Incredible organization
  • Superior comfort
  • Perfect size for a carry-on bag
  • Top of the line YKK zippers
Cons
  • No external USB port
  • No RFID pockets
  • Easy to access the front compartment (need luggage locks)
  • No lay-flat feature for TSA checkpoints

#12) VSNOON Anti-Theft Business Laptop Backpack

Here we have another budget anti-theft bag with lots of happy customers. The VSNOON travel pack comes equipped with several anti-theft features and an attractive design, minus the high price tag. Let’s check out the features included in this travel backpack.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop
  • Made with both tear & scratch-resistant materials
  • Airflow back design with ventilated padding keeps your back from getting sweaty while providing ample support
  • Breathable padded shoulder straps
  • Foam-padded top handle for an extra comfortable grip
  • External USB port and headphone hole
  • Anti-theft stash pocket in back panel
  • Includes a sternum strap and luggage strap to hook onto a rolling suitcase
  • Made with water-resistant materials
  • Dimensions: 19″ Height x 14″ Width x 6″ Depth
  • Super lightweight: 1.9 lbs
Pros
  • Includes features present in more expensive bags
  • Extremely easy on the wallet
  • Extremely Lightweight
  • Superior Internal Organization
Cons
  • Missing several premium anti-theft features
  • No RFID-blocking materials
  • No lay-flat feature for TSA checkpoints

#13) Aoking Anti-Theft Business Slim Travel Backpack

For those of you who love the NOMATIC travel pack but don’t want to fork out a mountain of cash for it, this bag is the one for you. For hundreds of dollars less, you get an attractive bag with solid features. Let’s take a look inside.

Features

  • Padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 15.6″ laptop
  • Water-repellant exterior materials and waterproof zippers to keep your stuff dry in most conditions
  • Unique lay-flat access design (see photo below)
  • An external USB port for charging on the go
  • Luggage strap to hook onto a rolling suitcase
  • Shockproof bottom to protect your laptop and other electronics
  • Easy-access pockets in shoulder straps
  • Anti-theft hidden pocket in the back panel
  • Zippered expansion system increases capacity from 25 to 30 liters
  • Dimensions: 12.2″ Width x 7.09″ Depth x 17.7″ Height
  • Weight: 1.88 lbs
Pros
  • Designed to repel heavier rain than other bags
  • Lay-flat feature allows for strategic packing
  • Super lightweight
  • Good budget option compared to NOMATIC
Cons
  • No sternum strap
  • No RFID-blocking materials
  • Lacks other premium anti-theft features

#14) HiOrange Anti-Theft Travel Laptop Backpack

Coming in late in my list is another great budget option, the HiOrange anti-theft travel backpack with laptop compartment. It’s managed to rack up a lot of positive feedback and comes equipped with some nifty features at this price point. Let’s look at what this bag has to offer.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop and 9.7″ tablet
  • External USB port
  • Hidden anti-theft pocket in the back panel to store valuables
  • Built with durable waterproof and slash-resistant materials that won’t wrinkle
  • Breathable honeycomb structure in shoulder straps and back panel
  • Total capacity: 32 liters
  • Dimensions: 17.3″ Height x 6.3″ Depth x 11.1″ Width
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs
Pros
  • Super affordable
  • Waterproof inner layer
  • Packs in some great features for the price
Cons
  • No sternum or hip straps
  • No luggage strap for hooking to a suitcase
  • Missing anti-theft features

#15) KAKA Large Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

The KAKA travel backpack is another great budget travel backpack option that’s on the light side for anti-theft features yet packed with useful features for travelers. For the price, it’s amazing what you get when you purchase this bag. Let’s explore what this travel bag by KAKA has to offer.

Features

  • Holds up to a 17″ laptop
  • Tons of different compartments to keep all your possessions efficiently organized
  • Built with water-resistant materials
  • Breathable back panel and shoulder straps with extra comfy padding
  • Rugged top handle
  • Includes a zipper lock (non-TSA approved)
  • Sternum strap for extra support
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty
  • Dimensions: 12″ Width x 7″ Depth x 22″ Height
  • Weight: 2.1 lbs
Pros
  • Larger capacity for longer trips
  • Durable materials
  • Compression straps throughout
  • Lots of organization options
  • Zipper lock included
  • Great for taller people
Cons
  • Missing most anti-theft features
  • Too big for some uses

#16) Tigernu Slim Anti-Theft Travel Backpack

Tigernu is another popular brand that is certainly in the discussion for the best anti-theft backpack at Amazon. It does lack several premium anti-theft features, yet it has a cool look and a friendly price tag compared to the NOMATIC and Korin Design bags above. Let’s check out the features.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop and includes a separate protective sleeve for tablets up to 9.7″
  • Tons of organization for tech gadgets and personal belongings
  • Wide shoulder straps for extra support and breathable mesh back panel
  • Includes anti-theft hidden pocket in back panel
  • The design hides the laptop compartment against your back
  • D-ring attached to bag to lock the zipper on your laptop compartment
  • Built with tear-resistant and water-repellent materials
  • The dual-layer zipper keeps pickpockets out
  • Total capacity: 22 liters
  • Dimensions: 13″ Width x 6.7″ Depth x 19.3″ Height
  • Lightweight: 2.1 lbs
Pros
  • More attractive than other designs
  • Tough materials for a low price
  • Its professional look makes it ideal for business travel
Cons
  • No luggage strap to connect to a rolling suitcase
  • No sternum strap
  • No external USB port

#17) Oscaurt Anti-Theft Travel Backpack

Those of you who are on the hunt for a premium anti-theft backpack for a budget price will surely be interested in the Oscaurt Anti-Theft Travel Backpack.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop
  • Zippers at the main compartment are completely hidden while the bag is on your back
  • Hidden anti-theft pocket in back panel
  • Opens at a 180-degree angle for easy access to all the internal organization pockets
  • External USB port
  • Water-resistant front panel
  • Large sleek side pockets to carry water bottles and umbrellas
  • EVA material in the back panel can withstand up to a 25kg load without changing shape (great for back support)
  • Capacity: 12 liters
  • Dimensions: 11″ Width x 5″ Depth x 17″ Height
  • Weight: 2.3 lbs
Pros
  • True anti-theft main compartment
  • Super low price
  • Internal materials are soft to keep gadgets safe
  • Lay-flat feature for TSA airport checkpoints
Cons
  • Minimal exterior pockets
  • No sternum strap
  • Smaller capacity

#18) Samsonite Modern Utility GT

I’m a huge fan of Samsonite luggage, and I’m glad to see that they’ve added an anti-theft backpack option to their collection. It’s light on anti-theft features but a great travel backpack nonetheless. Let’s see what’s inside.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop
  • Built with water-resistant durable 1000D nylon
  • Includes internal RFID-blocking pocket to store your passport and credit cards
  • Includes luggage strap to hook to a rolling suitcase
  • All pockets are zippered
  • Tons of exterior and internal organization pockets
  • Capacity: 2066 cu. in. or 33.85 liters
  • Dimensions: 18″ Height x 13.5″ Width x 8.5″ Depth
  • Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz.
Pros
  • It’s Samsonsite quality
  • Tons of pockets for organization
  • Made with premium durable materials
  • Affordable
Cons
  • No lay-flat feature
  • No external USB port
  • No sternum strap

#19) Kopack Waterproof Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

I had previously reviewed Kopack anti-theft backpacks and decided this bag more than deserved a spot on my ultimate list of best anti-theft backpacks for travel. Let’s explore the features offered in this bag.

Features

  • Fits up to a 15.6″ laptop in a shockproof sleeve and has a separate tablet sleeve
  • Zippers at the main compartment are completely hidden to keep out even the cleverest pickpockets
  • Built with water-resistant, anti-scratch materials
  • Includes a built-in rain cover for those times you need to go into waterproof mode
  • The ABS anti-slip base is waterproof in case you need to set the bag down on a wet surface
  • External USB port
  • TSA-friendly lay-flat feature to speed up the airport security checkpoint process
  • Anti-theft hidden pockets in the shoulder straps, back panel, rain cover pocket, and side pocket
  • Includes luggage strap
  • Comes in two sizes for laptops 15.6″ and 17″
  • Dimensions: 11.8″ Width x 17.7″ Height x 5.5″ Depth (15.6″ version), 20″ Height x 12″ Width x 5.9″ Depth (17″ version)
  • Weight: 1.94 lbs (15.6″ version), 1.98 lbs (17″ version)
Pros
  • Super lightweight at under 2 lbs
  • Premium anti-theft features
  • Includes rain cover
  • TSA-friendly lay-flat feature
  • ABS anti-slip base
  • Tons of sneaky anti-theft pockets
Cons
  • Too small to use alone for longer journeys
  • No RFID pockets
  • No sternum or hip straps

#20) XD Design Bobby XL 17″

This list wouldn’t be complete without the Bobby anti-theft backpack by XD Design. I previously reviewed XD Design Bobby backpacks, and I have to say that XD Design produces some of the best theft proof backpacks in the world.

Features

  • Holds up to a 17″ laptop with an additional sleeve for tablets up to 12.9″
  • Built with slash-proof and water-repellent materials
  • Anti-theft hidden zippers at the main compartment
  • External USB port
  • Optimal balance design saves your back from harmful stress
  • Hidden anti-theft side pockets and back panel pocket
  • Luggage strap to hook to a rolling suitcase
  • Capacity: 15 liters
  • Dimensions: 5.1″ Depth x 12.4″ Width x 18.5″ Height
  • Weight: 1.98 lbs
Pros
  • Premium anti-theft features and materials
  • Super lightweight at under 2 lbs
  • Holds larger laptops and tablets
  • Proven track record of happy customers
Cons
  • Higher price tag
  • No RFID pockets
  • Not big enough alone for long trips

#21) Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Large Backpack

Another leader in the anti-theft bag market is Travelon. I’ve decided to include their Classic Large size backpack in my ultimate list. Let’s take a look at what this bag has to offer.

Features

  • Holds up to a 15.6″ laptop and has a separate tablet sleeve
  • A full set of premium anti-theft features: slash-resistant materials, locking compartments, RFID-blocking sleeve, and slash-proof shoulder straps
  • Tethered key clip with LED light
  • Water-resistant materials
  • Dimensions: 12″ Width x 18.5″ Height x 7″ Depth
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs
Pros
  • Premium anti-theft features and materials
  • Super lightweight at just over 2 lbs
  • Affordable
  • Includes RFID-blocking pocket
Cons
  • No external USB port
  • No luggage strap
  • Too small alone for longer trips
  • No lay-flat feature

Best Anti-Theft Travel Accessories

In this section, I share with you several items I like to have in my anti-theft gear collection.

In a previous article, I reviewed the best money belt for international travel. Personally, I like to keep my passport, credit cards, and wallet under my shirt in a concealed RFID-blocking money belt while going through the airport. I also use this bag when I walk around outside after arriving in a new location.

It gives me peace of mind knowing my most valuable possessions are locked away against my body. If someone wants to rob my backpack, oh well, at least I have my most important possessions: passport, money, debit/credit cards.

My money belt is my most essential anti-theft accessory for travel.

Second, not all bags include luggage locks. I recommend using these locks while in the airport or in safer areas of transit.

Pro tip: If you walk around outside in a busy city with locks hanging from your bag, you’re begging pickpockets to target you.

#3 is an item I sometimes add to my anti-theft travel gear collection, the stash can. My favorite one is the Barbasol stash can.

I’ve used this exact can on many trips to successfully hide valuables.

#4 is a lightweight retractable cable lock. These are great for connecting suitcases or other items to fixed objects. They won’t block a person with massive bolt cutters, but they will block most people from quickly stealing your entire suitcase or backpack.

Fifth, you may want to check out a portable safe. Master Lock sells a quality safe for a very fair price #ad.

#6 is an actual money belt. I’ve never personally used one because I wear a handmade leather belt with a custom buckle that I bought in the forest of Northern California (I love cool belts and buckles).

However, if you don’t care about the style of your belt, these are great for holding money or very small items.

Bonus Travel Safety Tips

As a bonus to this list, I want to share with you a few travel safety tips I’ve learned over the years:

  • Don’t bring your passport, credit/debit cards outside unless you absolutely have to. I prefer to lock mine up always and go outside with only the money I need and a backup cell phone. Following these rules makes walking around cities much less stressful.
  • As I mentioned earlier, don’t use visible travel locks on pockets while walking around cities. Pickpockets will target you since they know/think you’re hiding something valuable. A vlogger got robbed in Bogota by making this mistake.
  • Always keep your passport, credit/debit cards, cell phone, etc. in a concealed money belt. If someone does rob your backpack, you’ll still have your most important possessions. Invest in cloud storage to automatically back up your important files and photos.
  • In my opinion, slash-proof materials could be overkill. If someone comes at me with a knife, I’ll hand over my bag before I hand over my life. This goes back to keeping your most important possessions in a concealed money belt. Grab-and-go robbers don’t have time to pat you down.
  • When staying in hostels, invest in a retractable lock or bike lock. This way, you can lock your bag to a bed frame or other fixed object. The portable safe above is also a solid option.
  • If you use Airbnb, look for places that provide an electronic safe. I always like using one of these when I travel. Tip: Airbnb is a great site to find places to stay in new destinations before you have a chance to check out apartments or hotels in person.
  • Stay on the beaten path in more obscure destinations. I’ve been places where there isn’t another foreigner in sight.

Bottom Line

Be sure to check back on this list for years to come, as I plan to keep it updated with the best anti-theft backpacks for travel currently available.

I made sure to include every little detail to make your current or upcoming travels the best they can be!

Cheers and safe travels!

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