This post is the first in our new series, Favorite Travel Gear, where we’ll share the things that have truly earned their place in our travel routines — no sponsorships, no gimmicks, just what we actually use and love!
I’m pretty particular about what I pack. Years of travel have taught me that the right gear plays such an important role! When it comes to bags—day bags, crossbodies, backpacks—there’s one brand that’s earned permanent real estate in my suitcase and on my shoulder: Pacsafe.
There’s no affiliate links here – I just genuinely love these bags, and after years of using them across dozens of countries, I think they’re worth talking about.
Here’s why.
Why Anti-Theft Bags Matter: A Story from Rome
A few years ago, my cousin was exploring Rome. At some point during her day—she’s not even sure when—someone slashed the bottom of her bag with a razor blade. Her camera fell out and was gone.
She didn’t realize it happened until much later. No confrontation. No awareness. Just… gone.
That’s how bag slashing works. It’s quick, silent, and by the time you notice, the thief is long gone.
What Makes Pacsafe Different
Pacsafe bags are built specifically to combat the most common travel theft tactics: slashing, grabbing, pickpocketing, and bag snatching.
They’re not bulletproof (obviously), but they make it significantly harder for opportunistic thieves to get to your stuff—and most thieves are looking for easy targets. Make it difficult, and they move on.
Here’s what Pacsafe builds into their bags:
Slash-Resistant Material
Remember my cousin’s slashed bag? Pacsafe bags have a lightweight stainless steel wire mesh embedded in the fabric. You can’t tell it’s there by looking at it, but try to slash the bag with a knife or razor? Not happening.
Locking Zippers
The zippers have built-in clips that let you lock them together, so someone can’t just unzip your bag while you’re distracted on a crowded metro or walking through a busy market.
RFID-Blocking Pockets
Credit card skimmers are everywhere. Pacsafe bags have RFID-blocking pockets to protect your cards and passport from electronic theft.
Cut-Resistant Straps
Bag-snatchers often target straps—cut the strap, grab the bag, run. Pacsafe straps have that same steel wire mesh woven through them. Good luck cutting through that.
Attachment Clips
Many Pacsafe bags come with clips that let you secure your bag to a chair, table, or hotel luggage rack. Sounds paranoid? Maybe. But it’s nice to know your bag can hang off the back of your chair and won’t go anywhere while you’re enjoying lunch at a café.
The Three Pacsafe Bags I Actually Own (And Use Constantly)
I don’t collect bags. I’m not a “one bag for every outfit” girl. But I do own three Pacsafe bags, and each one serves a specific purpose when I travel.
1. Pacsafe GO Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag
What it is: A sleek, minimalist crossbody that holds just the essentials—phone, wallet, passport, keys.
When I use it: City exploring, day trips, any time I want to be hands-free but still have my valuables secure and accessible.
Why I love it: It’s lightweight, sits flat against my body (no awkward bouncing), and the locking zippers give me peace of mind in crowded places. Plus, it doesn’t scream “tourist bag”—it just looks like a normal crossbody.
Perfect for: Urban adventures, museums, markets, café hopping.
Shop the Pacsafe GO Anti-Theft Crossbody
2. Pacsafe GO Anti-Theft Festival Crossbody
What it is: A slightly larger crossbody with more pockets and organization—great for when you need to carry a bit more but still want that secure, hands-free vibe.
When I use it: Day trips where I need water, snacks, sunscreen, extra batteries for my Insta360, and all the usual stuff. Also great for festivals, outdoor concerts, or anywhere with big crowds.
Why I love it: The organization is excellent (multiple compartments, including RFID-blocking pockets), and it’s still comfortable to wear all day. The adjustable strap means it works whether I’m wearing a t-shirt or a bulky jacket.
Perfect for: Full-day adventures, outdoor events, travel days when you want essentials close.
Shop the Pacsafe GO Festival Crossbody
3. Pacsafe Anti-Theft Backpack
What it is: A compact backpack that’s small enough to be a personal item on flights but roomy enough for a day’s worth of gear.
When I use it: Travel days, day trips, any situation where I need both hands free but want to carry more than a crossbody allows…it’s also my go-to at home when I’m just heading to a local coffee shop to work for a change of scenery.
Why I love it: It has all the anti-theft features (slash-resistant fabric, locking zippers, RFID pockets) but looks and feels like a normal backpack. The padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 13″ laptop, and there are water bottle pockets on the sides. It’s also incredibly comfortable to wear.
Perfect for: Flight days, day trips, photography outings, any time you need a secure daypack.
Shop the Pacsafe Vibe 16L Backpack – The one I have is super-old and they’ve updated it in the years since, but this is the newest version of the one I have
Peace of Mind is Priceless
Here’s the thing about travel: the best experiences happen when you’re present. When you’re not worried about whether someone just unzipped your bag on the subway or if your credit cards are being skimmed while you’re ordering coffee.
Pacsafe bags let me be present. I’m not constantly checking my bag or holding it in a death grip or wearing a backpack like a baby. I can focus on where I am, what I’m seeing, who I’m with.
Worth every penny.
The Sustainability Bonus
Pacsafe isn’t just about making great bags—they’re also committed to two of my favorite things: thoughtful sustainability and giving.
What they’re doing:
- Using recycled materials in their products
- Working toward more sustainable manufacturing practices
- Donating 1% of all sales to sea turtle conservation efforts (who doesn’t love turtles?!)
Who Should Consider Pacsafe?
You’ll love Pacsafe bags if:
- You’re traveling to cities known for pickpocketing (Barcelona, Rome, Paris, anywhere with busy metros)
- You want to feel secure without looking like you’re wearing a bulletproof vest
- You appreciate thoughtful design and quality materials
- You travel solo and want that extra layer of security
- You’re tired of constantly worrying about your stuff
You might not need Pacsafe if:
- You’re doing a beach resort vacation where you’re rarely in crowds
- You’re backpacking on a tight budget (Pacsafe bags aren’t cheap, though they’re worth it)
The Bottom Line
I’ve used a lot of travel bags over the years. Some were fine. Some fell apart after one trip. Some looked great but were a pain to actually use.
Pacsafe bags have earned their spot in my packing routine because they just work. They’re secure without being bulky. Durable enough to handle real travel, not just Instagram photoshoots. And I love the colors.
Check them out!
