Pacsafe Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Anti-Theft Bag for Travel
Travelling should be about discovering new places, not worrying about your belongings. Pacsafe specializes in anti-theft backpacks, crossbody bags, sling bags, wallets and travel accessories designed to add extra layers of security while you're travelling, commuting or exploring a new city.
But with different Pacsafe collections, sizes and security features available, which Pacsafe bag should you choose?
This Pacsafe buying guide explains Pacsafe's anti-theft technology, compares the different types of Pacsafe bags and helps you choose the right option for your next trip.
What Is Pacsafe?
Pacsafe is a travel gear brand known for integrating anti-theft features directly into bags and travel accessories.
Rather than relying on a single security feature, many Pacsafe products combine technologies designed to make common forms of opportunistic theft more difficult, including slash-resistant materials or straps, secured or lockable zippers, attachment points that can help secure a bag to a fixed object, and RFID-blocking compartments on select products.
This makes Pacsafe anti-theft bags particularly useful for travellers visiting busy destinations, using public transportation, staying in hostels or hotels, or simply wanting additional protection for passports, wallets, electronics and other valuables.
Why Choose a Pacsafe Anti-Theft Bag?
A standard backpack or crossbody bag is primarily designed to carry your belongings. A Pacsafe anti-theft bag adds security features intended to help protect both the bag and what's inside it.
Depending on the Pacsafe model, these may include:
- Cut-resistant straps
- Cut-resistant bag materials
- Secured or lockable zippers
- RFID-blocking pockets
- Security clips or hooks
- Locking systems
- The ability to secure the bag to a fixed object
Not every Pacsafe product includes every anti-theft feature, so it's important to compare individual models when choosing your bag.
You can also explore our complete Anti-Theft Travel Collection to compare Pacsafe with other anti-theft travel options.
Understanding Pacsafe Anti-Theft Technology
One of the biggest differences between Pacsafe and a conventional travel bag is the security technology built into many of its products.
eXomesh® Slashguard
Pacsafe's eXomesh® technology uses cut-resistant material to help protect vulnerable areas of a bag from slash-and-run theft.
On compatible products, this reinforcement is incorporated into the construction of the bag, providing another layer of protection without requiring travellers to carry a separate security device.
Carrysafe® Slashguard Straps
A shoulder strap is an obvious target on a backpack, sling or crossbody bag.
Pacsafe's Carrysafe® slashguard straps reinforce straps using cut-resistant materials, helping protect against thieves attempting to cut a strap and quickly take the bag.
RFIDsafe® Blocking Pockets
Passports and some payment cards contain RFID-enabled technology.
Select Pacsafe products include RFIDsafe® blocking pockets and materials designed to help protect compatible cards and passports against unwanted RFID scans.
Travellers who want this feature should look specifically for Pacsafe models that list RFIDsafe technology, as RFID protection is not included in every product.
Secure and Lockable Zippers
Open or easily accessible zippers can be vulnerable in crowded areas.
Many Pacsafe bags use security hooks, clips, secure zip tabs or locking systems that make the main compartments more difficult to open without the wearer noticing.
Locking and Security Systems
Select Pacsafe bags allow a strap to be secured around a fixed object.
This can be particularly useful when sitting at an airport, café or restaurant, where placing a bag beside your chair can otherwise make it easier for someone to grab.
Which Pacsafe Bag Is Best for You?
The best Pacsafe bag depends primarily on where you're travelling, what you're carrying and how you prefer to carry it.
| Type | Best For | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
Pacsafe Backpack | Sightseeing, commuting, flights and everyday travel | More carrying capacity with hands-free comfort |
Pacsafe Crossbody Bag | City travel and sightseeing | Keeps everyday essentials close to your body |
Pacsafe Sling Bag | Day trips and minimalist travel | Compact, lightweight and easy to access |
Pacsafe Carry-On Backpack | Flights and longer trips | Larger capacity for travellers who prefer backpack-style luggage |
Pacsafe Waist Pack | Festivals, sightseeing and essentials | Compact storage worn close to your body |
Pacsafe RFID Wallet or Passport Case | Passports, cards and travel documents | Compact protection for important travel essentials |
Pacsafe Travel Lock & Security Accessory | Luggage, backpacks and additional security | Adds another security option to your travel setup |
Pacsafe Backpacks: Best for Everyday Travel
A Pacsafe anti-theft backpack is one of the most versatile choices for travellers.
Backpacks provide enough room for everyday essentials while distributing weight across both shoulders. Depending on the model, Pacsafe backpacks may also include dedicated laptop or tablet compartments, organizational pockets, bottle pockets and travel-friendly features.
Consider a Pacsafe backpack if you:
- Carry a laptop or tablet
- Spend full days sightseeing
- Commute by public transit
- Want more storage than a sling or crossbody bag
- Prefer hands-free travel
- Need one bag for both everyday use and travelling
For even more options, compare Pacsafe with our complete selection of Anti-Theft Backpacks.
Pacsafe Crossbody Bags: Best for Sightseeing
For city trips, a Pacsafe anti-theft crossbody bag can be an excellent alternative to a backpack.
Crossbody bags keep essentials such as your phone, passport, wallet, sunglasses and travel documents easily accessible while keeping the bag close to your body.
They're especially convenient when navigating airports, train stations, tourist attractions and busy city streets.
A Pacsafe crossbody bag is a strong choice for travellers who want security features without carrying a full-size backpack.
Browse our selection of Crossbody Bags to compare different sizes and styles.
Pacsafe Sling Bags: Best for Lightweight Travel
A Pacsafe anti-theft sling bag sits between a backpack and a crossbody bag.
Slings typically provide more carrying space than a small crossbody while remaining lighter and less bulky than a backpack. They're well suited to sightseeing, day trips and travellers who only need to carry the essentials.
Many travellers also like sling bags because they can be repositioned toward the front of the body when navigating particularly busy areas.
Explore our Sling Bags to compare Pacsafe sling packs with other travel-friendly options.
Pacsafe Carry-On Backpacks: Best for Air Travel
Travellers who prefer to avoid traditional wheeled luggage may want to consider a Pacsafe carry-on backpack.
Larger travel packs provide substantially more capacity than everyday Pacsafe bags and can work well for weekend trips, international travel and minimalist packing.
When selecting any carry-on backpack, always compare the bag's exterior dimensions with your airline's current carry-on requirements. Airline size and weight restrictions can vary by carrier, route and fare.
Pacsafe RFID Wallets and Passport Holders
You don't necessarily need a new bag to add Pacsafe security products to your travel setup.
Pacsafe RFID-blocking wallets, card sleeves and passport cases provide compact options for storing cards, passports and travel documents.
They can be useful for travellers who want to organize important documents separately or add RFID-blocking protection while continuing to use their existing luggage.
Browse the complete Pacsafe collection to find RFID-blocking wallets, passport cases, card sleeves and other Pacsafe travel security accessories.
Choosing the Right Pacsafe Size
Choosing the correct capacity is just as important as choosing the right security features.
Small: Essentials Only
A compact crossbody, waist pack or small sling works well for:
- Phone
- Wallet
- Passport
- Keys
- Sunglasses
- Small travel essentials
These are ideal for sightseeing or travellers who prefer to carry as little as possible.
Medium: Everyday Travel
A medium sling or backpack provides additional room for items such as:
- Tablet
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Light jacket
- Chargers
- Travel documents
- Everyday essentials
This is often the most versatile size for day trips and urban travel.
Large: Full-Day or Carry-On Travel
Larger Pacsafe backpacks and travel packs are better suited to:
- Laptop
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Toiletries
- Travel accessories
- Longer day trips
- Carry-on travel
For air travel, remember that capacity in litres does not determine whether a bag qualifies as carry-on luggage—always check the actual dimensions.
Which Pacsafe Collection Should You Choose?
Pacsafe offers several collections designed around different types of travel and everyday use.
Pacsafe GO
The Pacsafe GO collection is a good place to start for everyday travellers looking for lightweight anti-theft bags in practical styles.
The range includes options such as backpacks, crossbody bags, sling bags and larger travel bags, making GO particularly versatile for vacations, sightseeing and everyday use.
Best for: Casual travel, city trips, everyday use and travellers looking for a lightweight Pacsafe option.
Pacsafe V / Vibe
The Pacsafe V and Vibe collections focus on versatile anti-theft bags suitable for urban travel and everyday use.
Depending on the model, you'll find security technologies such as RFIDsafe blocking materials, Carrysafe slashguard straps, eXomesh slashguards and locking systems.
Best for: Frequent travellers, commuting, city exploration and travellers who prioritize security features.
Pacsafe Citysafe CX
Pacsafe Citysafe CX combines anti-theft functionality with a more refined, lifestyle-focused appearance.
Options include backpacks and convertible bags designed to transition easily between travel and everyday settings.
Best for: Travellers who want anti-theft functionality with a more polished look.
Pacsafe ECO
The Pacsafe ECO collection offers travel and outdoor-oriented designs with anti-theft technology and recycled materials.
Depending on the model, features can include RFIDsafe blocking pockets, slash-resistant materials, locking systems and comfortable carrying systems.
Best for: Outdoor adventures, active travel, sightseeing and travellers looking for security-focused bags made with recycled materials.
What Is the Best Pacsafe Bag for International Travel?
There isn't one Pacsafe bag that's best for every international traveller. The right choice depends on what you'll carry and how you'll use the bag once you reach your destination.
For sightseeing: A Pacsafe crossbody or sling bag provides easy access to essentials without the bulk of a full backpack.
For full-day excursions: A Pacsafe anti-theft backpack provides more room for water, clothing, electronics and other essentials.
For airports and flights: A larger Pacsafe travel backpack may work as a carry-on, subject to your airline's size requirements.
For passports and cards: Consider a Pacsafe RFID-blocking wallet or passport holder.
Many travellers may find that a combination works best, for example, a larger travel bag for transportation and a smaller Pacsafe sling or crossbody for exploring the destination.
Are Pacsafe Bags Worth It?
A Pacsafe bag can be worth considering if security is an important factor when choosing travel gear.
They're particularly relevant for travellers who:
- Frequently visit busy cities or tourist destinations
- Use trains, buses and public transportation
- Carry passports, phones, cameras or electronics
- Travel internationally
- Stay in hostels or shared accommodations
- Want additional protection against opportunistic theft
- Prefer security features integrated into the bag rather than adding accessories later
Anti-theft features cannot guarantee that a bag or its contents will never be stolen. Instead, they add layers of protection designed to make common types of opportunistic theft more difficult.
Pacsafe Buying Guide: Quick Recommendations
| If You Need... | Consider... |
|---|---|
A bag for sightseeing | Pacsafe Crossbody or Sling Bag |
An everyday travel bag | Pacsafe Anti-Theft Backpack |
A compact bag for essentials | Pacsafe Sling or Waist Pack |
A bag for work and travel | Pacsafe Laptop Backpack |
A larger bag for flights | Pacsafe Carry-On Travel Backpack |
Protection for cards and passports | Pacsafe RFID Wallet or Passport Case |
A stylish everyday anti-theft bag | Pacsafe Citysafe CX |
Lightweight casual travel | Pacsafe GO |
Outdoor and adventure travel | Pacsafe ECO |
Security-focused urban travel | Pacsafe V / Vibe |
Frequently Asked Questions About Pacsafe
What is special about Pacsafe bags?
Pacsafe specializes in travel bags and accessories with integrated anti-theft technology. Depending on the product, features can include cut-resistant straps or materials, secured or lockable zippers, RFID-blocking compartments and systems that allow a bag to be secured to a fixed object.
Are Pacsafe bags slash-proof?
It's more accurate to describe Pacsafe's applicable technology as cut-resistant or slash-resistant rather than claiming a bag is completely slash-proof. Select products use security technologies designed to reinforce vulnerable areas of the bag.
Do all Pacsafe bags have RFID protection?
No. RFID-blocking technology is available on select Pacsafe products. Look for RFIDsafe® in the individual product specifications if RFID protection is important to you.
What is the best Pacsafe bag for Europe?
For sightseeing in European cities, many travellers will find a Pacsafe crossbody, sling or compact backpack convenient because it keeps everyday essentials close while providing additional anti-theft features. The best choice depends on how much you plan to carry.
Is Pacsafe good for international travel?
Pacsafe is particularly well suited to international travel because many of its products are designed around common travel-security concerns, including bag snatching, unauthorized access to compartments and slash-and-run theft.
Can Pacsafe bags be used as carry-on luggage?
Some larger Pacsafe travel backpacks are designed with carry-on travel in mind. However, permitted dimensions and weights vary between airlines, so always compare the specific bag dimensions against your airline's current requirements before travelling.
Are Pacsafe bags good for everyday use?
Yes. Many Pacsafe backpacks, crossbody bags and sling bags are designed for both travel and daily use. They can be especially useful for commuting, public transit, school or working from cafés and shared spaces.
Which is better: a Pacsafe backpack or crossbody bag?
Choose a Pacsafe backpack if you need more capacity or regularly carry a laptop, water bottle or extra clothing. Choose a Pacsafe crossbody if you primarily carry a phone, wallet, passport and smaller essentials and want easier access while sightseeing.
What size Pacsafe bag should I buy?
For essentials, consider a compact crossbody, waist pack or sling. For sightseeing and everyday travel, a medium sling or backpack is more versatile. For clothing, laptops or carry-on travel, consider a larger backpack or travel pack.
Shop Pacsafe in Canada
Whether you're preparing for an international vacation, a weekend getaway or your daily commute, choosing the right Pacsafe anti-theft bag comes down to finding the right balance of size, carrying style, organization and security features.
Canada Luggage Depot carries a wide selection of Pacsafe backpacks, anti-theft bags, sling bags, crossbody bags, RFID-blocking travel accessories, wallets, passport cases and travel security products.
Shop Pacsafe in Canada and find the right anti-theft travel gear for your next trip.
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