Last Updated on March 27, 2025 by Oliver
If you’re gearing up for a big trip—whether you’re sipping spritzes in Italy or backpacking through Southeast Asia—the last thing you want is to end up wallet-less and stranded because some sneaky pickpocket got the best of you.
Trust me, it’s not fun explaining to the embassy why you have zero ID and no money.
That’s why finding the best anti theft purse travel option is a game-changer. After getting pickpocketed in Milan, I found the perfect solution—and now I’m never traveling without it.
Why I Needed an Anti-Theft Purse
I’ve been traveling solo for years, and my trusty Lululemon fanny pack was basically glued to my hip. It worked great—until it didn’t.
Last summer in Milan, someone managed to unzip it and swipe my wallet while I was distracted in a crowded piazza. (Thankfully they only got a handful of euros and some back up credit cards!)
That was my wake-up call. With a summer of backpacking through Europe ahead of me, I knew I needed something more secure. Enter the Travelon Classic Mini Shoulder Bag—and honestly, I’m never looking back.
Why I Chose This Travelon Anti Theft Travel Bag
Pickpocketers are seriously the worst. Like, come on—we’re on vacation trying to live our best lives, and you’re out here ruining it?!
That’s why, after my Milan incident, I went down a rabbit hole researching anti-theft bags. The one that kept showing up? The Travelon Classic Mini Shoulder Bag.
It’s packed with security features—cut-proof straps, locking zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets to protect my cards and passport from digital theft.
Now I can roam the streets of Rome, dance the night away in Barcelona, and literally just exist in Paris without feeling like I need to clutch my bag and side-eye everyone.
And I’m gonna tell you exactly why this is the absolute best anti theft purse—and why have to have it on your next upcoming trip! Let’s get into it!
💡Also, check out my favorite digital nomad backpack—it’s completely changed the way I travel, and I’m obsessed!
Anti Theft Features of the Travelon Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
The safety features on this bag are UNREAL—like, I didn’t even know some of this tech existed.
I remember back in 2019, my sister-in-law showed up to Paris with an actual lock on her fanny pack because she was so paranoid (and honestly, fair enough). The horror stories about pickpockets will have you double-checking your pockets every five seconds.
But with this anti theft bag for ladies, you can just toss all your stuff inside and actually relax, knowing your stuff is safe.
Locking Zippers for Extra Security
You know that heart-stopping moment when you realize your bag was unzipped without you noticing? Yeah, not happening with this bag. The zippers literally lock in place, so no one’s sneaky hand is getting in there.
The lockable zippers work kind of like a carabiner—you have to press on a specific spot to unlock and move the zipper. (It’s easy to use once you get used to it but might take a bit of practice at first).
The thing I love about the Mini Shoulder Bag is it actually has two zippers without the lock, I can put things in there like my chapstick, sunglasses or a city map that I want to have access to without unlocking the whole bag.
RFID-Blocking Pockets to Protect Your Cards
I didn’t even know electronic pickpocketing was a thing until I heard terrible stories about people getting their cards skimmed just by standing too close to someone in a crowd. Scary, right?
That’s why the RFID-blocking pockets in this bag are a major plus, especially if you’re visiting a busy and touristy city.
I also love their built-in wallet with RFID protection, so I don’t have to bring my big wallet along when I just need my cards and ID. Plus, the design of the wallet makes it easy to access and use without having to fumble through your bag.
Slash-Resistant Straps and Body
Before I got this bag, I’d constantly hear stories on TikTok about people getting their bag straps cut with box cutters and stolen in broad daylight—WTF?!
Now obviously, I haven’t tested this (because, you know, I like my stuff), but you can feel the difference. The straps are thick and reinforced with a slash-resistant wire mesh inside, so even if someone tries to cut through them, they won’t get far. The body also has multiple layers of cut-proof material, adding an extra layer of protection.
I seriously hope you never have to have this tested but it’s a nice peace of mind to have while traveling.
Multiple Secure Compartments for Organization
There’s nothing worse than frantically digging through your bag at airport security or while trying to buy a train ticket.
The classic mini shoulder bag has multiple secure compartments that keep your essentials organized and your belongings safe. There’s a hidden pocket for cash and change, a zippered compartment for your passport, and even a slot for your phone.
It’s not just about security—it’s about not feeling like a hot mess every time you need to grab something.And trust me, I know all about that!
Adjustable and Comfortable Crossbody Design
As someone with chronic shoulder and neck pain, finding a comfortable travel bag is basically a mission.
The Travelon Classic Minihas an adjustable strap that lets you wear it exactly how you like, whether that’s close to your chest or lower at your hip. It’s not padded, but the strap is lightweight and doesn’t dig in—even after a long day of exploring.
And I absolutely love the lock-down strap feature because it lets you secure it to a chair or table, so no one’s running off with your bag while you’re busy enjoying a spritz.
I used to have to tie my bag around my leg every time we ate, but now I just hook it onto the table and enjoy my meal without any worry.
How It Holds Up While Traveling
I’ve put this bag through a lot—packed trains, crowded markets, and long day trips where I’m walking for hours. It’s honestly held up better than any other travel bag I’ve used.
The material still looks brand new even after being shoved under airplane seats and tossed on the ground during quick coffee breaks.
It’s also just the right size for day-to-day exploring—it’s small enough to stay comfortable but big enough to hold my essentials (and random souvenirs I pick up along the way).
I really only have one complaint and that’s the style, it’s just not my favorite. It’s black, so it matches everything (and they haveother color options too), but it definitely makes me look like a tourist.
But if style isn’t your priority and keeping your belongings safe is what truly matters, then this is undoubtedly the best option available.
The Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Small size but big enough to hold everything you need
- Secure—locking zippers, RFID protection, and slash-resistant straps give serious peace of mind
- Built-in wallet with RFID blocking means you can skip carrying a bulky wallet
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear, even on long day trips
- Adjustable strap and lock-down feature to secure it to chairs or tables
- Affordable price for the level of protection and quality
- Super durable—it’s made to last for years, even with heavy use
- Solid colors go with almost everything, so you can wear it every day
Cons:
- The style—it’s functional, but not the most fashionable option
- Made out of nylon, so not super eco-friendly
- Not waterproof, but relatively water-resistant—can handle light rain but not a downpour
Other Anti-Theft Purses I Recommend
If you’re looking for something similar but with different features, here are three other options I love:
Travelon Anti Theft Purse Classic Messenger Bag
This crossbody anti theft purse travel option is a little bigger than the Mini Shoulder Bag with a compactable pocket for a water bottle. It’s perfect if you need to carry more without sacrificing security.
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Convertible Crossbody & Waist Pack
A smaller, more discreet option. I love that you can switch it to a fanny pack—super convenient when my shoulders need a break, even if it screams “tourist.”
Personally, I think this is one of the best anti theft crossbody bags out there if you don’t like to carry a lot of things.
Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Cross-Body Bag
This is a higher-end option with a sleek faux leather design and slash-resistant chain strap with classic hardware. It comes in six colors and three strap lengths, so you can match it to any outfit. I don’t own this one (yet), but this is the best anti theft travel purse to elevate any euro summer outfit.
I like purchasing these off Amazon because the free shipping with Prime is super convenient, and their customer service is always reliable if anything goes wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anti-Theft Travel Bags
Do you really need an anti-theft bag for travel?
If you’re traveling to busy cities or tourist hotspots, absolutely. Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas, and an anti-theft bag gives you extra security and peace of mind.
What is the safest type of purse to travel with?
An anti-theft bag with locking zippers, RFID-blocking technology, and slash-resistant material is your best bet. Crossbody bags are especially secure since they’re harder to snatch.
How can I prevent my purse from theft?
Use an anti theft crossbody bag with locking zippers and secure it to a chair or table when sitting down. Keep your bag in front of you and avoid leaving it unattended.
How can a bag be anti-theft?
Anti-theft bags have travel accessories like locking zippers, slash-resistant straps and body panels, and RFID-blocking pockets to prevent skimming and theft.
Are all Travelon purses anti theft?
Not all of them, but most of Travelon’s travel-focused new arrivals shop includes anti-theft features like locking zippers and RFID protection. Always check the EXACT Travelon purse anti theft details to be sure.
Final Thoughts on Why I’ll Never Travel Without This Anti-Theft Purse Again
I can’t believe I traveled for so long without an anti-theft purse. Seriously, after getting pickpocketed, this bag has been the best travel investment I’ve made in a long time.
It’s comfortable, secure, and fits everything I need without weighing me down. I can finally walk through busy markets, hop on public transport, and enjoy a night out without constantly clutching my bag.
If you’re looking for a reliable travel purse anti theft option, do yourself a favor and grab the Travelon Classic Mini Shoulder Bag. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
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