11 Best Anti-Theft Backpacks [2023] Stop Thieves

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 Anti-Theft 20L Laptop Backpack

This is a high-end backpack with a high-end price tag. However, I’d say that the price is justified because this backpack has a lot of different anti-theft technologies incorporated into it. In terms of design, the Pacsafe backpack is made of 100% polyester on the outside and features nylon lining. It’s available in 4 colors – Charcoal and Navy, Tweed & Black.

This backpack has 6 different anti-theft features, and I’d say that it’s the most secure one, out of all the backpacks in this review. First, there is the eXomesh slash guard, which will protect your belongings in case someone tries to cut them open with a knife.

Second, there is the Roobar anti-theft anchor lock, which allows multiple compartments to be locked together. It also allows you to secure your backpack to a pole, for example, and no one apart from you would be able to detach it from the pole.

In addition to that, one interior pocket of the Pacsafe features RFIDSafe fabric – so it is definitely classified as an RFID backpack. This fabric obstructs all transmissions between 10 MHz to 3 GHz. Those frequencies are usually used to read ID cards, e-passports, and credit cards, and so this fabric will also protect you from any tech-savvy thieves that want to rob you electronically.

This is the backpack that you can leave unattended for some time, and come back to find intact. Another great anti-theft feature is the design of smart zippers – they have zip sliders that are meant to overlap so that you can secure them with a padlock. However, if you want to try out this feature, you’ll have to get the padlock separately.

In terms of other features, there is a dedicated laptop compartment inside, as well as a dedicated tablet compartment. The main compartment is also quite roomy, and you could fit a lot of things in the 20-30L capacity of the Pacsafe backpack.

MarsBro Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

The MarsBro Anti-Theft Backpack is another affordable option. And a great example of what difference $20 makes. This particular pack is about half the price of the Travelon one (around $30), but it also has half as many anti-theft features.

The zipper of the main compartment is hidden close to the backpanel so that thieves can’t open your backpack while you are wearing it. It also features a pocket behind the backpanel, which will keep your most valuable items safe, and a small zippered pocket on one of the shoulder straps. And that is all.

No RFID-safe pockets, no anti-slash materials, and no lockable zippers. But if you’re on a really tight budget, then this is definitely a better option than just any cheap backpack.

Plus, it’s really great for organization. It has an organizer panel in the front compartment, as well as multiple pockets in the main compartments.

And also a laptop sleeve which will fit any 15.6” laptop – something those fancy, expensive backpacks seem to lack.

In addition to that, this has a ventilated backpanel, which significantly increases the breathability of the pack. And it has a luggage strap – a very convenient feature if you plan to use this for travel.

Overall, I wouldn’t say that this is a great anti-theft backpack. But, I would say that it’s a really good affordable backpack, with some rather convenient anti-theft features. Plus, you can always put a lock on the zippers and get an RFID-safe wallet, for additional peace of mind.

Inateck Anti-Theft Travel Backpack

This is a great backpack for travel. It’s large enough to fit everything you’d need on a short trip, and still small enough that you can use it as a carry-on backpack when you’re flying somewhere. It’s made from abrasion and water-resistant materials, and it features a padded and ventilated backpanel.

As for the actual anti-theft features, you get lockable zippers and compression straps. The straps are rather useful – not only do they protect your backpack from thieves, but they also reduce its size when it’s not filled to capacity. And ensure that the things inside don’t get jumbled around.

The pack also features several hidden pockets. There’s a zippered pocket on each shoulder strap, as well as a slip one on the backpanel. These are great for all those items you want to keep extra safe.

You can actually choose between two sizes for this backpack, but I decided to feature the larger one. With so many backpacks that can’t even fit a laptop, it’s refreshing to find one that can fit a 17” laptop.

The main compartment opens up like a suitcase, for convenient packing. And the backpack features lots of different external and internal pockets, for easy organization. Overall, it’s definitely a great bag for travelers who are looking for something safer than a basic backpack. And it comes with a free raincover!

Mancro Anti-Theft Backpack

Whether you are looking for a backpack for college or for travel, this secure backpack is an excellent choice. For one thing, it has a lot of different pockets on the inside, including one designed specifically for your laptop with a secure tab on the top. There is also an organized front pocket that will allow you to keep your items separate, and always stay organized.

The anti-theft aspect of it is that the zipper attaches to a hook that stops anyone from easily opening it. This means that if a thief were to target you, they would have a hard time locating the zipper of your backpack. Also, there is an RFID-protected pocket in the front compartment to block the scanning of your credit cards.

As for other cool features, there is a USB port with a built-in charging cable, so that you can safely charge your phone. You will still need a power bank, as the backpack itself is not a source of electricity. But given the price, you can hardly expect one.

This anti-theft backpack is also made of water-resistant material, which is kind of expected – due to the external USB port. There is also plenty of padding on the straps to help keep you comfy should your load get a little heavy.

All in all, this is not a top-end pack, but the features for the price are certainly worth your time and money.

Oscaurt Anti-theft Travel Backpack

The Oscaurt bag is another super-affordable anti-theft backpack with a very modern design. You will either love the look of it or hate it. It is made of water-resistant PCVC polyester, with a padded back panel. Inside the backpack, there are several pockets, one of which is specifically designed for your laptop (up to 15.6”).

If you love organization, this pack is smart, with the tilting backpanel to access the inside. But I am not a fan. I find it complex and all the pockets, although they have a purpose, limit the packing space, as I mentioned.

Of course, there are a few external pockets on this backpack. There is the main one on the front, which is designed to be slim and not easy to access (against thieves I guess!). And there are semi-hidden side pockets for the usual – water, umbrella, etc.

This tilting design is also part of the security of the pack as the zipper runs around the back and is then hidden by a fold of the material. Not a bad idea, but certainly not as great as a Travelon or Pacsafe pack.

Other cool features of this anti-theft backpack include a USB port that connects to your battery which is in a dedicated pocket on the inside (of course, there are lots of dedicated pockets :>). 

All in all, not a bad pack if you like organization and a little security, along with a super modern design. However, I would go for something else on this list.

Loaged Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

The Loaged backpack is made of polyester, and it is available in 4 different colors. What I really like about this particular backpack is the exterior pocket on the back.

Even though it can’t be locked, it cannot be accessed easily by anyone other than you, due to its location. This makes it a great pocket to store any items that are valuable, but that you will need handy –your wallet, phone, passport, etc.

As for the anti-theft technologies, there are steel hooks and buckles that go over the zippers of the backpack, so that the thieves would have a hard time opening it. In any case, you would definitely notice if someone attempted to tamper with it, while you were carrying it.

Additionally, it’s important to note that the anti-theft features aren’t meant to just secure the main compartment. They also cover the big front pocket, which is a big plus.

In my opinion, this anti-theft technology is much more convenient than a combination lock. You would definitely feel it if someone started to mess around with the hooks, but it is also much easier for you to open this bag up when you need to.

In the main compartment, there is a dedicated laptop compartment, and it can fit laptops up to 16 inches. There are also several other pockets inside, which make this backpack great for school or daily bike commute.

There are also several other pockets inside, which make this backpack great for school or a daily commute.

In addition to that, there is also a strap on the back of this backpack that allows you to secure it to the handle of your suitcase – another very convenient feature for all travelers. Also, there is a USB port on this bag, but unfortunately, you won’t get a headphone jack.

AMBOR Business Laptop Backpack

The AMBOR backpack is made of eco-friendly waterproof nylon, and you can get it in 2 colors, Grey and Black. It is also very lightweight and durable, and therefore a great choice for travelers, but also for students.

Additionally, there is a dedicated laptop pocket (up to 15.6” laptop) in the main compartment – another very convenient feature for both travel and school.

This waterproof anti-theft backpack features a combination lock that can fully secure the main compartment, but not the exterior pocket.

The original combination is 000, and you should immediately change it. You can do that quite easily; press the button of the lock, and then set the combination to whatever you like. Once you have done that, release the button and rotate the numbers again, and you’re done.

Both a headphone jack and a USB port are included in this backpack. A USB cable is also included in the purchase, but a power bank is not.

As for the other features, there are several pockets in the roomy main compartment – for your accessories, glasses, phone, etc.

Additionally, there are also several different pockets in the exterior compartment, but just keep in mind that it can’t be locked. Therefore, I’d say that the exterior compartment is great for any items that are not really valuable (financially), such as pens, notebooks, water bottles…

Overall, this is perhaps the best anti-theft backpack for students because it combines low cost with functionality.

Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-Theft Sling Backpack

The Metrosafe is a great small anti-theft backpack. It’s made from cut-proof materials (steel mesh), and it has lockable zippers. In addition to that, you’ll also find an RFID safe pocket in this pack, which can hold your ID and credit cards.

The backpack features a main compartment and a front pocket. The main compartment is roomy and features a padded tablet sleeve. It has lockable zippers, which you can secure with a padlock (not included in the purchase).

The front pocket is zippered and it also features lockable pullers. But the star of this pocket is the organizer panel, with slip pockets for your phone, pen holders, a key clip, and a padded sleeve that fits a 7” tablet. Oh and a zippered mesh pocket on the lid.

The downside to Metrosafe is its size. Even though it has two padded sleeves, only the one in the main compartment can fit a regular-sized tablet. The sleeve in the front pocket can fit a 7” device – a tablet or one of the newer smartphones.

But you won’t be able to fit a laptop in this pack. Maybe you can squeeze in an 11” baby, but anything larger is out of the question. Therefore, this backpack is only good for people who have smaller devices, or who are used to working on their tablets.

Also, this is a sling anti-theft backpack, and not everyone will like that. But that’s another anti-theft feature – the turn & lock security hooks ensure that this thing stays on your body until you decide to take it off.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Backpack

If you want high-end protection at an affordable price, this is a very safe backpack to get. It’s made by Travelon – a high-end brand that specializes in making safe, anti-slash backpacks and travel bags.

And this particular slash-proof backpack has several anti-theft features. It is mostly made from slash-resistant mesh, which includes shoulder straps. Additionally, you get RFID-safe slip pockets inside the front pocket, that will protect you from identity thieves. And on top of all that, the pack also features locking zippers and lock-down straps.

But this backpack is not just safe. It is also very stylish and great for organization. It features an organizer and a key clip in the front compartment, multiple pockets and a sleeve in the main compartment, and two side pockets.

Only one side pocket is zippered and completely safe. The other one is a slip pocket, so it’s best for holding a water bottle or a small umbrella. And you don’t have to worry about your belongings inside getting wet, thanks to the water-resistant materials.

But it has a downside – you can’t really fit a laptop in this backpack. The sleeve in the main compartment is large enough to fit an iPad, but it’s not padded. Therefore, the impact resistance of the pack is not that great.

It’s not the best backpack out of the bunch. But you can get it for under $50, which kind of makes up for the features it lacks. At least for me.

XD Design Bobby Elle Anti-Theft Backpack

This one is for all the ladies who want a stylish and safe backpack. Yes, it’s possible to have both – the Bobby Elle pack is very stylish, but it’s also one of the safest backpacks in this review.

However, it does have a hefty price tag. So, definitely not a great option if you’re looking for something affordable.

This anti-theft backpack for ladies has the features to justify that price. For one thing, it’s made from (expensive) cut-resistant and water-resistant faux leather. It also has no access points on the front – all the fun is in the back. Kind of like a mullet.

So, the zipper to the main compartment is all the way in the back. There’s also a small zippered pocket on the bottom of the backpack, as well as an additional pocket on the backpanel.

The main compartment is rather spacious. It has a padded tablet sleeve (fits 9.7” devices), and several zippered and slips pockets. You can actually fit quite a lot of stuff inside this backpack, even though it doesn’t look like it. And that’s one of my favorite things about it.

The shoulder straps are a bit of a downside, though. They’re very thin and feature belt-buckle adjustment points. Definitely not as functional or comfortable as plain padded shoulder straps. But remarkably stylish, for sure.

NOMATIC Anti-Theft Backpack

If you’re looking for a truly premium option, then this is the backpack for you. The Nomatic backpack is as expensive as it looks – but for a damn good reason.

The backpack is made from Kodra 500D Tarpaulin waterproof fabric with water-resistant zippers. Its anti-theft features include lockable external zippers and RFID-safe internal pockets.

Here’s the catch – this is not the safest backpack you can get. However, it is the best backpack with some great anti-theft features, without a doubt.

The Nomatic features expandable capacity, a laptop sleeve that fits 15” laptops, a tablet sleeve that fits 12” tablets, a retractable key leash, a padded backpanel, a sternum strap, a luggage strap, and a cord pass-through. And there’s more.

There are two side pockets on this backpack, which are designed to hold water bottles. But they are magnetic – they snap pack into place when empty, for a sleeker look.

In addition to all of that, this backpack also features a removable organization panel, which gives you the versatility of use. Want to use this for a trip? No problem. Just remove the organization panel, and you will be able to fit more clothes inside the bag.

Another thing I have to mention is that you get a case for your sunglasses when you buy this pack. It’s a hardshell case, which features a removable (softshell) sleeve inside.

Kopack Anti-Theft Backpack

The Kopack is a good affordable option. It’s not too expensive, and it has some really cool features. The exterior of this slash-proof backpack is also waterproof, and the bag has hidden zippers and lockable zipper pullers. However, they aren’t interlocking, meaning you will need a padlock to secure the opening of the main compartment.

This pack also features two rear hidden pockets, which are great for all the items you want to keep very safe. And it has a padded and ventilated back panel, for your carrying comfort. This makes it a great backpack for the warmer months since the ventilation ensures you won’t sweat too much while you are wearing it.

Additionally, it is also a TSA-friendly backpack. It has a 90-180 degree opening, which exposes your laptop immediately. Pretty useful for getting through TSA checkpoints fast.

But what I like the most about the Kopack is the shock-proof padding of the laptop sleeve. It will protect your (17”) device in case of a nasty fall or a bump, which is rather useful.

One thing to note is that this backpack is available in two sizes. I’ve listed the dimensions for the larger one, which can fit 17” laptops. The smaller backpack can fit 15.6” devices at most, and it’s recommended for smaller people.