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The 10 Best Anti-Theft Backpacks On Amazon

We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team

by Rachel Cavanaugh

Whether you're traveling to a foreign country or simply trekking around town, a backpack with extra security features can provide added peace of mind. The best anti-theft backpacks offer a combination of durability, comfort, and security, thanks to upgrades like hidden pockets, locking mechanisms, and RFID protection. Here are a few things to look for when shopping around:

  • Durable material: Backpacks made with tough, durable material such as high-density polyester, nylon, or Oxford are your best bet. Some bags even feature "slash-proof" fabric, which uses a hidden layer of steel mesh wiring to make it resistant to being cut open.
  • Locking mechanisms: Some bags have built-in padlocks while others have special zippers that allow you to attach your own. Some even have hooks to lock your strap to the leg of a chair and deter thieves from quick grab-and-runs.
  • Hidden pockets: Pockets that rest against your back instead of on the front of the bag are a great way to keep your belongings secure.
  • RFID protection: This anti-theft technology is meant to prevent digital pickpockets from picking up your credit card and identity information via radio waves, and while some experts believe it's unnecessary, it certainly doesn't hurt to have.

In addition to these anti-theft upgrades, look for some of the usual features that make backpacks great, like adjustable straps, accessible compartments (including one for a laptop), and a comfortable fit.

Given these considerations, take a look at the best anti-theft backpacks below.

We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.

1A Slash-Proof Drawstring Backpack With A Locking Closure System

This one-of-a-kind slash-proof backpack incorporates chic design aesthetics with top-notch theft deterrence. The bag is made with something called FLAKnit fabric that's practically impossible to cut — which gives potential thieves a run for their money. On top of that, it has steel-enforced locking straps and a sturdy brass lock (like a "portable safe for your valuables," per the manufacturer). In addition to keeping your stuff safe when you're walking around, you can lock it to tables or chairs when you're in coffee shops or restaurants. The straps are made from soft and lightweight rope, with a sturdy sternum strap for extra comfort. Get this bag in your choice of denim blue, gray, or tan.

2This Compact Laptop Bag With A Security Hook

This miniature laptop backpack features a clever aluminum security hook on the shoulder strap that makes it fast, simple, and effortless to attach it to a table or chair when you're on the go. And while it boasts a slim profile, it's still large enough to fit all the day's essentials, thanks to the zippered front panel, multiple interior pockets, stretchy water bottle holder, and fully padded laptop sleeve. The tough bag is constructed from durable recycled polyester and it comes in five cute colors, like honeybee yellow and stargazer blue.

3A Luggage Pack With RFID-Blocking Pockets For Your Passport & Credit Cards

Designed with RFID protection, this handy travel luggage backpack may help safeguard your credit cards and passports while you're traveling. It's made with durable, high-density nylon fabric and features a tough leather carrying handle and a clever front pouch with a magnetic closure system that offers quick access to small items. The convenient, sleek-looking bag has a roomy main compartment, adjustable shoulder straps, a sturdy zipper, and a padded laptop sleeve. And when you land at your destination, you can use the luggage strap to attach the backpack securely to your suitcase handle. It's available in black, navy, and vintage gray.

4This Cute Faux Leather Knapsack With A Secure Back Zipper Design

On top of being super chic, this knapsack-style backpack provides safety features like an anti-theft back zipper for stashing valuables and a two-way carrying system that lets you convert it from a shoulder bag to a backpack, allowing you to wear it as a purse around town or slip it over both shoulders to keep it securely next to you. It's made of soft faux leather with durable metal buckles and a no-snag zipper. Plus you can choose from large and small sizes in classic shades like tan, brown, and black.

5This Small Carry-On Backpack With A Built-In Lock

If you're looking for something that you can wear around town that's also secure enough to use when you travel, look no further than this anti-theft carry-on backpack with a fixed passcode lock and hidden security pocket that can't be accessed from the outside. Made with durable and water-resistant polyester, it features multiple interior and exterior storage pockets, along with a laptop sleeve, and — big bonus — a built-in USB charging port. The luggage strap lets you attach it securely to your suitcase handle, and you can choose from six colors.

6This Colorful Anti-Theft Purse Backpack That Comes In A Variety Of Patterns

Looking at this stylish backpack purse, you'd never guess that it's made of tough, high-density Oxford fabric. Plus, the zipper to access your valuables sits right against your back, which means no one can sneak their hands in without you knowing. It has a soft polyester lining and features multiple pockets for organizing small items. And it's convertible, too, so you can switch between wearing it as a backpack and shoulder bag. Best of all, this option is super lightweight and fully waterproof. Choose from five fun colors and patterns.

7A Camera Bag With Lockable Zippers & Compartments For Your Gear

A fantastic option if you're carrying expensive camera gear, this lightweight yet extraordinarily tough bag features a special compartment with dividers and pockets for your camera, lenses, and accessories, along with anti-theft lockable zippers and hooks. The laptop pocket rests against your back for extra security, and there are pockets for a water bottle and a tripod. Available in five colors, it's water-resistant but comes with a rain cover for extra protection.

8This Cool Sling Backpack With A Built-In Combination Lock

For folks who want something that's smaller and fully waterproof, this anti-theft sling bag with a built-in combination lock is just the ticket. It's made with rugged material that repels water, along with a waterproof zipper. The front pocket is carbon filter-lined for odor resistance and the adjustable strap makes it comfortable to wear. This bag is available in three basic colors: green, gray, or black.

9A Quality Duffel Backpack With Lockable Zippers

Made with heavy-duty fabric and soft, padded straps, this rugged outdoor duffel backpack can be closed with a padlock (which must be purchased separately). The lockable backpack is great for traveling due to its comfortable design and secure, back-opening zipper. In addition to the locking mechanism, it has a handful of pockets and pouches including zippered mesh dividers and webbing handles for simple hauling.

10A High-End Backpack With Slash-Proof Fabric

For the ultimate in peace of mind, this anti-theft backpack is made with sturdy, cut-proof fabric and features lockable zippers on all its exterior pockets, plus an RFID-blocking compartment for IDs and credit cards. Plus, the padded, adjustable shoulder straps feature a clasp, so you can secure the bag to tables or chairs. It's water-resistant and comes in four colors: khaki, black, navy, and dark tweed.