You probably know several horror stories of friends who lost their phone, money or documents when on a trip. As careful as you think you are, it can also happen to you.
While there is no theft-proof solution, you can keep most thieves and pickpockets at bay by implementing a combination of security precautions.
For instance, you can use a lock on the zippers when travelling and a cable lock when you set the backpack down.
Alternatively, just buy an anti-theft security backpack.
Personally, I prefer getting a security backpack. No matter how much I try to secure my backpack, there is still a loophole left for thieves. For instance, they could just slash it open, making the padlock useless.
A security backpack provides better protection for your valuables.
What is a Security Backpack?
A security backpack is designed to deter and prevent theft in a number of ways that prevent a thief from finding their way into the bag or snatching away the entire backpack.
Lockable zippers are standard in security backpacks. They ensure no one can open the bag especially when you are in a crowded place.
If you want more security, there are backpacks that secure the zippers with a combination lock.
Another common security feature is an anti-slash back. The backpack will usually be embedded with steel mesh or some other tough material like Kevlar to ensure no one can cut or tear it open.
The straps may also be reinforced with a tough material for added protection.
There are tons of extra features that are available in different bags. It’s up to you to decide the ones that are best for your needs.
A security backpack is of course going to be pricier than a normal backpack. But it’s definitely worth the price tag especially if you travel often or use a backpack for your daily commute.
What to Consider When Buying a Security Backpack
1. Security
Check which security measures the bag contains. Expensive security backpacks contain more protections to cover every loophole that a thief might take advantage off.
If you have the budget, a premium well-secured backpack is the best choice. You’ll get features like anti-slash protection, lockable zippers and hidden compartments.
If you have a lower budget, you can still get a fairly well-secured backpack at an affordable price.
2. Ruggedness
Most security backpacks are also designed to be taken into rough places. They can withstand a fall and some light drizzle.
If you are planning to use the bag for activities like hiking, get one that can withstand the tough outdoor conditions while still keeping your valuables safe.
3. Comfort
A security backpack is still a backpack and needs to be comfortable.
Make sure the straps and backing are padded and that you can adjust them for a snug fit.
4. Capacity
Decide how big you want the backpack to be. This will depend on what you’ll use it for and what you’ll carry in it.
If for instance it’s for work or college, check that it can fit your laptop.
Backpack capacities range from as small as 10 litres for a casual bag to as much as 50 litres for a travelling daypack.
Most security backpacks fall between 10 and 25 litres.
Best Anti-theft Security Backpack Reviews
1. PacSafe Metrosafe LS350 Anti-theft 15L Backpack
This 15-litre backpack is perfect for daily commute, college, hiking or as a travelling daypack. It even has a special protected compartment for a 13-inch MacBook (or whichever laptop you use).
When it comes to security, PacSafe took no chances designing a secure backpack. It’s pricey than most but you’ll see why.
The main security feature is the security clip for the zippers. The zippers clip into a hook and then a sliding barrel ensures no one can take pull them out. For extra security, you can add your own padlock.
To protect against slashes, a stainless steel wire mesh is built into the back, sides and bottom of the bag. The shoulder straps also have a lightweight stainless steel wire embedded to prevent anyone from cutting them and snatching the backpack.
A Turn-and-Lock hook at the end of the straps allows you to secure the bag around a fixed object such as the leg of your bed or chair. And because the straps have embedded steel, there is no way a thief will be able to take off with the backpack.
Finally, there is an RFID-safe compartment where you can store your credit cards and car keys. This prevents anyone with an RFID scanner from stealing any crucial information.
What we like about it:
- Plenty of security features.
- Large enough for travelling or daily commute.
- Adjustable straps for comfort.
2. Smashii Anti-Theft High Security Rucksack
If you are planning to do some serious travelling, you need a bag large enough to hold everything you’ll need. The Smashii anti-theft rucksack fits the bill.
It’s actually a 2-in-1 bag: a larger 65-litre rucksack plus a smaller 15-litre daypack.
Most of the security features are in the larger backpack. The zippers are large enough for easy locking with a padlock. There is also a Kevlar anti-slash technology that covers the back and sides of the bag.
When you are not on the move, you can use the retractable wire cable to secure the bag to a fixed point. The cable secures into a combination lock.
The daypack is more basic and has no security features; just a minimally padded laptop compartment and some pockets for your documents.
I wouldn’t recommend using the daypack on its own when out and about. Place it in the main rucksack where it’s more secure.
What we like about it:
- Large capacity.
- 2-in-1 design.
- Available in several colours.
3. PacSafe Citysafe CS300 Anti-theft Compact Backpack, 14.9 litres
This is a slightly smaller version of the Metrosafe LS350 backpack I reviewed above. With a capacity of 14.9 litres, it is ideal for daily commutes and urban travelling.
It has most of the security features of the Metrosafe LS350 backpack.
This includes the exomesh, a stainless steel mesh at the back and sides to prevent slashing. The zippers are also lockable to prevent pickpocketing.
The adjustable straps are reinforced with wire to prevent slicing. They also come with a security hook that you can use to secure the bag around a fixed object such as your hotel bed.
To protect your credit cards and IDs from being remotely scanned, there is an RFID-safe compartment.
In terms of organization, this backpack has plenty of places to stash your stuff.
There is the main compartment with smaller pockets for your phone, keys and other small stuff. There is also a padded sleeve for an 11” notebook laptop as well as side pockets for things that you need to reach quickly.
What we like about it:
- Good security features.
- Compact and comfortable to carry around the city.
- Lots of pockets to organize your things.
4. KALIDI 15.6 inch Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack
If you are looking for a lower priced security backpack for school or business, this one is perfect.
It can easily fit a 15.6” laptop and leave plenty of space for your books and stationery as well as smaller stuff like credit cards.
The main security feature is the dual zippers that are secured with a combination lock. Once you lock them, there is no way someone will be able to open the backpack.
The outer material is not embedded with something tough like steel mesh or Kevlar, but it is still hard enough to make it hard for someone to cut through it.
There are plenty of places to organize your things. There’s the main compartment for your laptop. There are also a couple other hidden pockets where you can put your passport or phone. A hidden side storage bag can be used to store an umbrella or water bottle.
This backpack comes with a USB charging port (power bank not included) which you can connect to a power bank and charge your phone on the go.
There is also a 3.5mm audio jack to which you can connect your phone or iPod on the inside and plug in your earphones on the outside. This lets you listen to music without worrying about someone snatching your phone.
What we like about it:
- Great for work and college students.
- Secure combination lock.
- Lots of storage areas.
- Extra features – USB port and audio jack.
5. Kopack Anti-theft Laptop Rucksack
This is another excellent choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly secure backpack for your laptop (up to 15.6”).
It has a unique hidden zipper design which makes it hard for pick pockets to steal anything. There is no combination lock but you can secure the zippers using a small padlock.
The exterior of this backpack is made from a tough water-resistant material. So even if you are caught in a light drizzle, your laptop will be okay. It’s also hard to cut through.
What I love most about this backpack is its versatility.
The inside is filled with numerous pockets and compartments to put your stuff. There is a larger pocket for your laptop and a smaller one where you can put a tablet. Both are protected by an elastic band and soft foam padding.
There are half a dozen other pockets for your pens, phone and bottle. The exterior is just as versatile.
There is a hidden pocket for your passport and other valuables and an elastic band where you can put a pen or glasses for quick access.
That’s not all. There is also an integrated handle which you can pull out if you don’t want to carry the bag on your back.
What we like about it:
- Very versatile.
- Fairly good security.
- Available in several colours.
Frequently asked questions
How does an anti-theft backpack work?
Different anti-theft backpacks have different security measures built into them. Some use a metal mesh or a Kevlar insert to resist slashing and tearing attacks. Many anti-theft backpacks also come with lockable zippers.
You can also find backpacks that incorporate RFID protection to protect things like credit cards and car keys.
How do I secure my backpack?
The easiest way to secure your backpack is to lock the zippers so that no one can access your valuables. Also, find a way to attach the backpack to yourself or something solid like furniture when you are sleeping or seated in a restaurant. You can use a lockable cable or a strap.
For documents and devices like your phone, get a bag with hidden compartments that make it harder for thieves and pickpockets to reach your valuables.
How can I keep my phone safe in my backpack?
Never put your phone in an external side pocket. It’s super easy for someone to grab it from there especially in a crowd.
Get an anti-theft backpack that contains hidden compartments to make it harder for anyone to snatch the phone out of your backpack. Add an extra layer of security by locking the zippers with a padlock or some other kind of lock.
Finally, never leave your backpack unattended. When you are in a dorm room, restaurant, airport lounge or in a bus, use a strap to attach the backpack to your hand or the leg of the bed or seat.
