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Travel + Leisure
03-08-2025
- Travel + Leisure
6 Common Mistakes Tourists Always Make, and How to Avoid Them, According to Travel Safety Experts
Travel safety is something I had to learn the hard way. While studying abroad in Barcelona, my phone was snatched right out of my hand by a bicyclist. Like most people, I never thought it would happen to me. Now, with more travel experience under my belt, I want to share what I've learned along the way—and bring in advice from seasoned experts—to help you stay prepared for any safety challenges that might come up while you travel. I had the opportunity to speak with travel safety expert Kevin Coffey, a retired Los Angeles Police Department detective with extensive experience investigating crimes against travelers. 'People don't think these things will happen to them, but they always do to someone," he says. Similarly, Lloyd Figgins, who has over 20 years of experience in international security and has traveled to over 80 countries, shared that one of the biggest mistakes travelers make is failing to research their destination and understand the risks. 'Your safety and security are your responsibility," he advises. "Get into the habit of owning it." With insights from these experts, I've compiled the key dos and don'ts to help you avoid dangerous situations like pickpocketing and theft while traveling, as well as the best safety products to carry with you to be one step ahead of would-be thieves. Using an Apple AirTag or a similar tracking device can be a game-changer when it comes to locating your belongings. While it's an obvious precaution if your bag is stolen or your checked luggage is lost, it's actually a crucial gadget to place in all of your bags (suitcases, backpacks, purses, totes—anything you might bring on a trip), according to Coffey. He stresses that you should especially stow one in your carry-on bag as it typically "holds your most essential items: laptop, medication, chargers, and toiletries," and, if you board last and there isn't room in the overhead bins, you'll need to check it anyway. 'Travelers with tracking devices in their luggage have been able to direct airlines exactly where to find their property,' he explains. 'I always tell people that you can't afford to travel without a tracking device in every piece of luggage, or anything that could get lost or stolen.' He adds, 'Whenever possible, try to hide them so they're not easily found. If it's lost in an airport or put on the wrong carousel, at least you'll have a way to track it down.' Pro tip: 'When I check my bag, I do it with the mindset that I may never see it again. It sounds harsh, but I only pack items in checked luggage that I can afford to lose or replace.' — Kevin Coffey In addition to using tracking devices, investing in a durable, anti-theft luggage tag for your carry-on is essential. Coffey explains that a common mistake he sees travelers make is only putting luggage tags on their checked bags and neglecting their carry-on (and the possibility that they might have to check it at the gate): 'People don't expect to lose their carry-on, assuming it will always be waiting for them after they check it." However, if your carry-on does end up gate-checked, the flight crew attaches a small tag with an elastic band. 'If that flimsy band wasn't secured properly or gets caught between other bags, it can easily stretch, break, or fall off,' Coffey warns. 'Once that tiny tag is lost, the chances of finding your luggage decrease significantly.' Coffey recommends opting for a sturdier tag with a more secure attachment mechanism. 'I really like tags with a braided steel cable because they're far less likely to break or be removed,' he says. You can stock up with the Gotswo 7-pack Silicone Luggage Tag Set or the Ovener Aluminum Luggage Tags, which come in a handy set of two. Portable chargers are essential for staying connected while traveling. Whether you're navigating unfamiliar streets or relying on GPS, a portable charger ensures your phone won't die when you need it most. Often, while exploring a new city, access to outlets is limited, and in emergency situations, a fully charged phone can be a lifeline. 'I always carry a power bank so I'm never without a way to communicate, even during power outages," Figgins shares. Portable chargers also save you from the hassle of searching for outlets, which can be sparse, crowded, or unreliable in public places. And on a plane, if you're unlucky enough to be without an outlet, a portable charger will keep your devices powered for entertainment or important tasks. With trusty power banks like the Charmast Portable Charger and Iniu Portable Charger in your bag, you'll always have power at your fingertips. Pro tip: 'Most travelers have never walked through and practiced the recovery process of a phone that was lost or stolen. Sometimes, most people don't have their recovery passwords and Apple IDs and passwords when they're traveling to try to recover.' — Kevin Coffey As our travel experts have noted, it's crucial to be prepared for the unexpected while traveling. Whether you're dealing with a power outage in a hotel, a remote Airbnb, or a campsite, a dedicated flashlight ensures you won't be left in the dark. If you plan to explore at night, whether taking a walk, hike, or just returning from dinner, a flashlight or headlamp is "always useful" says Figgins. Relying solely on your phone's flashlight isn't ideal; it drains the battery, which you need for navigation and communication, and its light isn't nearly as powerful as a standard flashlight. Worried about space? Compact flashlights, like the portable ones from GearLight and Lighting Ever above, are easy to pack, offering a much better solution without taking up much room. When it comes to security, it's smart to take extra precautions, especially in hotels or Airbnbs. Bringing your own lock and door wedge provides peace of mind. "I always travel with a door wedge, which I place under my hotel room door from the inside," Figgins says. "Even if someone has a master key, they still can't get in, and I can sleep soundly." A door wedge creates an extra barrier against unauthorized entry, particularly in accommodations where you may not fully trust the door's lock. These small, easy-to-pack versions from Kerui and Trustella greatly enhance your personal safety, ensuring you're taking proactive steps to protect yourself and your belongings. Overpacking can be more than just inconvenient—it can make you a target for theft, as it signals you're a tourist with (poorly packed) valuables. 'It's tempting to bring every gadget, but my rule is to keep it simple and light,' says Figgins. 'Most travelers take far too much stuff they don't need and will never use." If you're unsure about an item, chances are you can leave it at home. To pack smarter and stay safe, consider tools like packing cubes to keep things organized, travel-size toiletries, and versatile, lightweight clothing. If laundry is available, you can bring a laundry bag and pack even less. Opt for dual-function electronics, like a tablet that can serve as your laptop, e-reader, and entertainment device, reducing the need to carry multiple items. Pro tip: 'Build situational awareness into your travel and be aware of your environment, identifying what can cause you harm, and how you're going to avoid it. These days, people are focused on their smartphones, rather than what's around them. This means that they are distracted—and that's what criminals want to see. Make yourself a hard target by being situationally aware and, more often than not, the bad guys will move to an easier target.' — Lloyd Figgins Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
CNN
13-05-2025
- CNN
From pickpocket-proof to RFID-blocking options, these are the 16 best anti-theft travel bags
Anti-theft bags quick picks Anti-theft passport wallet: Pacsafe RFID-Safe V150 Anti-Theft Passport Wallet Anti-theft purse: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag Anti-theft backpack: Shrradoo Anti-Theft Laptop Travel Backpack No matter where you're headed or how you're spending your vacation, ensuring your belongings stay secure is a crucial step in getting adventure-ready. And while the anti-theft bag market has shrunk over time, that doesn't mean that these bags are any less useful. 'The number-one issue that's going to be faced in this vertical of traveler loss theft is going to be pickpocketing,' Kevin Coffey, a travel safety trainer and retired Los Angeles Police Department detective, said. 'And it's going to be one of two ways: One, it comes out of your pocket itself, and the other is going to be coming out of a bag that you're carrying.' According to Coffey, there are several key features that a good anti-theft travel bag should possess, including the ability to detach a strap and secure it to a secondary device, anti-slashing features, and RFID blocking. From crossbody bags and sling bags to travel purses and backpacks, we've rounded up a range of anti-theft options, all of which include at least one security feature. Lewis N. Clark RFID-Blocking Money Belt The waist belt has an ultra-slim design that fits discreetly underneath your clothing and is constructed with RFID-blocking technology and durable rip-stop nylon. It's even got self-repairing zippers. The multiple compartments keep your currency, electronics, passports, travel documents and more organized and easily accessible when needed. Pacsafe Vibe 100 Anti-Theft Fanny Pack Keep your valuables safe while on the go with the lockable zips and cut-resistant materials of the Pacsafe Vibe 100 Anti-Theft Fanny Pack made from recycled PET for optimal sustainability. It also has RFID-safe pockets and a Roobar locking system. It can even hold a 7-inch tablet, as well as with the usual suspects — keys, phone and wallet. Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack The Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack has a slew of security features, including RFID-blocking card slots, a slash-resistant body and straps, and locking compartments. These features can help provide an additional level of convenient security against theft. Monos Metro Sling Bag The Monos Metro Sling is all about sleek, functional design. This versatile single-strap bag can be worn around the waist, over the shoulder or crossbody, with smart interior pockets and a built-in keychain carabiner to keep essentials secure. A full-length back pocket offers easy access to your wallet, phone or passport. Made entirely of vegan materials, it comes in nine stylish colors. Pacsafe RFID-Safe V150 Anti-Theft Passport Wallet Also from Pacsafe, this passport holder has RFID-blocking material to protect against unauthorized scans of your credit cards and IDs, with six card slots, a zippered mesh window slot for an ID card, a mesh passport holder, a boarding pass slip pocket, a zippered pocket and a pen loop. There's also a detachable strap that is reinforced with a hard-to-cut wire, and you can wear it around the wrist or secure it to a belt loop to deter pickpockets. AquaVault Anti-Theft Portable Beach Chair Vault 'As an avid beachgoer, I absolutely love the Aqua Vault FlexSafe anti-theft bag,' said travel blogger Marla Cimini. 'It's basically a portable safe that offers peace of mind.' This compact bag secures to a beach chair, umbrella or other fixed object with a combination lock you set yourself. It fits your phone, keys, wallet and other small valuables and features splash-proof, slash-resistant and RFID-blocking material. It also has mesh pockets, a belt loop, and a top handle so you can carry it like a purse or even use it as a bike bag. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag 'If a thief can't get into your bag, they'll try to take the whole thing,' Coffey said. 'People often hang purses on the backs of chairs or cover them with a jacket; [those are] easy targets. That's why it's important to secure your bag to something fixed, like a chair.' The Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag makes that a cinch with a detachable, slash-resistant strap you can loop through a chair or table. Its five-point anti-theft security system includes slash-resistant panels, locking compartments and an RFID-blocking organizer for added peace of our review Baggallini Modern Pocket Crossbody Bag Travel journalist Elizabeth Heath loves her Baggallini bag, which boasts RFID-blocking technology, a detachable strap and plenty of space for your belongings while remaining relatively compact. You'll also find plenty of compartments and pockets inside to store all your smaller items. We love the options on offer, with more than 30 colors and designs available. "I bought the bag in a neutral/unisex color so that my spouse can carry it too," Heath said. "That way, we can get by with one 'purse' when we travel, and I'm not left holding the bag and the phones, wallets, tickets, etc.' Peak Design Everyday Tote This 15-liter Peak Design Everyday Tote really lives up to its name. It's great for an adventure or holding your photo equipment, but it also works for everyday trips because it combines a sleek aesthetic with functionality that protects, organizes and gives quick access to your gear. The extra-wide opening has a weatherproof UltraZip, seals with a magnetic clasp and folds over to provide extra pickpocketing protection. Travelon Anti-Theft Urban Messenger Bag With its five-point anti-theft security system, including a lockdown strap, the Travelon Urban Anti-Theft Messenger Bag updates the Essential Messenger Bag with a sleek, squared design and a main compartment featuring two padded sleeves that can hold a 14-inch laptop along with an iPad or tablet. Buckles secure the flap over the main compartment, while the front and rear pockets have zippers, offering excellent security. It can be worn as a crossbody or over the shoulder. Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack The Pacsafe CitySafe convertible backpack is a great design with a 2-in-1 option: It can be worn as a travel backpack or folded down as a handbag or crossbody bag. Any way you wear it, you'll get all the anti-theft features standard for Pacsafe bags. It has smart zipper security, cut-resistant fabric and a cut-resistant anchor strap that stores away neatly or secures to a fixed object, along with RFID-blocking pockets. Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack Travelon's Signature Anti-Theft Backpack is a great choice for travelers looking for anti-theft features alongside a clean and functional design. The main compartment has an RFID-blocking slot that holds credit cards and passports. There's also an inner zippered wall pocket with an attached key clip with an LED light. The hidden anti-slash pocket under the flap is perfect for your cell or sunglasses. Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack Away's Everywhere Zip Backpack is constructed with water-resistant nylon, a breathable mesh back panel for extra comfort and a full wraparound zip opening for access to its spacious main compartment. Its anti-theft features include a padded 15-inch laptop pocket with a magnetic locking zipper, an external secure front zip pocket and a hidden easy-access slip pocket for your phone or passport. Shrradoo Anti-Theft Laptop Travel Backpack The Shrradoo Anti-Theft Laptop Travel Backpack is a great value at well under $30. It has a built-in lockable compartment for securing a laptop and other valuables, which provides an extra layer of security against theft. Additionally, its durable build, spacious compartments and multiple pockets, including a USB charging port and expandable water bottle sleeves, make it a practical and versatile option for our review Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L This bag is a go-to for Jarryd Salem, founder of the travel blog Nomadasaurus. 'As professional photographers, anti-theft features are crucial since we travel with expensive gear,' he said. In addition to hidden pockets and lockable zippers, Salem said the bag's best feature is its subtlety. 'They don't look like camera bags, which makes them less of a target. The less attention your gear draws, the safer it is.' Travelon Anti-Theft Packable Backpack The Travelon Anti-Theft Packable Backpack is all about optimal security and convenience for travelers. Its standout feature is the five-point anti-theft security system that includes several key elements like slash-resistant mesh barriers and stainless steel wire embedded in the straps. Locking compartments also help prevent pickpockets from accessing the contents of your bag. It's important to understand the features that can help protect your belongings. From durable materials to clever design details, here's what to look for when shopping for an anti-theft bag. Slash-resistant fabric Slash-resistant material is engineered to withstand knife attacks, a common tactic used by thieves trying to quickly cut open a bag. These fabrics are usually reinforced with steel mesh or carbon fiber wires woven into the lining, so they're extremely tough to pierce or slash. Hidden, lockable zippers and compartments Well-designed anti-theft bags feature discreet zippers and lockable compartments to outsmart pickpockets. Some zippers are hidden under flaps or panels, while others can be secured with integrated locking mechanisms. If your bag doesn't come with a lock, check out our guide to the best TSA-approved locks to find one that works for your setup. Reinforced shoulder straps Strap-cutting is another quick-grab method used by thieves. To help prevent it, look for bags with reinforced shoulder straps — often built with steel cables or high-strength fibers like Dyneema — that are extremely difficult to slice through. Secure attachment points Many anti-theft bags include locking clips or anchor points so you can secure your bag to a fixed object, like a chair or table leg. This feature is especially useful at cafés, train stations or anywhere you might briefly set your bag down. Ease of use Ultimately, you want to find an anti-theft bag that's easy to use. 'Find one that fits your dexterity level,' Coffey said. 'If the features are difficult to use and quickly secure, you're probably not going to be using it all the time, and then [the anti-theft features become] pointless.' What are the most secure anti-theft bags? What are the most secure anti-theft bags? If you're looking for secure anti-theft bags, there are several smart options to choose from. Backpacks with slash-resistant materials, lockable zippers and RFID-blocking compartments are perfect for carrying valuables like laptops while staying protected. Crossbody bags offer compact convenience with cut-proof straps and hidden pockets that deter pickpockets. For added versatility, convertible bags that switch between backpack and purse modes combine style with hidden zippers and secure compartments. Messenger bags with slash-proof panels and locking mechanisms provide both organization and peace of mind, especially for commuters. And for hands-free travel, waist packs with hidden buckles and RFID protection keep essentials close and secure. What is the difference between an anti-theft bag and a normal bag? What is the difference between an anti-theft bag and a normal bag? The main difference between anti-theft bags and regular bags is security. Anti-theft bags include features like slash-resistant materials, lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets and hidden compartments to deter thieves. Regular bags prioritize style and function but lack these protective elements, making them more vulnerable to theft. Is RFID blocking important for anti-theft bags? Is RFID blocking important for anti-theft bags? RFID blocking is a key anti-theft feature that protects credit cards, passports and IDs from wireless data theft. It prevents criminals from using scanners to steal your info without contact, adding an extra layer of security against identity theft and fraud. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Marla Cimini, an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures Kevin Coffey, author, travel safety trainer and retired Los Angeles Police Department detective who founded the Crime Investigation Detail for airport and travel-related crimes Elizabeth Heath, travel writer and editor living in central Italy Jarryd Salem, founder of the travel blog Nomadasaurus and managing director at Peak Evolution Media CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this articles, travel editor Kyle Olsen sought advice and recommendations from professionals such as retired detectives and experienced travel bloggers, to the effectiveness, practicality and real-world relevance of a wide variety of anti-theft bags.
CNN
19-04-2025
- CNN
From pickpocket-proof to RFID-blocking options, these are the 16 best anti-theft travel bags
Anti-theft bags quick picks Anti-theft passport wallet: Pacsafe RFID-Safe V150 Anti-Theft Passport Wallet Anti-theft purse: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag Anti-theft backpack: Shrradoo Anti-Theft Laptop Travel Backpack No matter where you're headed or how you're spending your vacation, ensuring your belongings stay secure is a crucial step in getting adventure-ready. And while the anti-theft bag market has shrunk over time, that doesn't mean that these bags are any less useful. 'The number-one issue that's going to be faced in this vertical of traveler loss theft is going to be pickpocketing,' Kevin Coffey, a travel safety trainer and retired Los Angeles Police Department detective, said. 'And it's going to be one of two ways: One, it comes out of your pocket itself, and the other is going to be coming out of a bag that you're carrying.' According to Coffey, there are several key features that a good anti-theft travel bag should possess, including the ability to detach a strap and secure it to a secondary device, anti-slashing features, and RFID blocking. From crossbody bags and sling bags to travel purses and backpacks, we've rounded up a range of anti-theft options, all of which include at least one security feature. Lewis N. Clark RFID-Blocking Money Belt The waist belt has an ultra-slim design that fits discreetly underneath your clothing and is constructed with RFID-blocking technology and durable rip-stop nylon. It's even got self-repairing zippers. The multiple compartments keep your currency, electronics, passports, travel documents and more organized and easily accessible when needed. Pacsafe Vibe 100 Anti-Theft Fanny Pack Keep your valuables safe while on the go with the lockable zips and cut-resistant materials of the Pacsafe Vibe 100 Anti-Theft Fanny Pack made from recycled PET for optimal sustainability. It also has RFID-safe pockets and a Roobar locking system. It can even hold a 7-inch tablet, as well as with the usual suspects — keys, phone and wallet. Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack The Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack has a slew of security features, including RFID-blocking card slots, a slash-resistant body and straps, and locking compartments. These features can help provide an additional level of convenient security against theft. Monos Metro Sling Bag The Monos Metro Sling is all about sleek, functional design. This versatile single-strap bag can be worn around the waist, over the shoulder or crossbody, with smart interior pockets and a built-in keychain carabiner to keep essentials secure. A full-length back pocket offers easy access to your wallet, phone or passport. Made entirely of vegan materials, it comes in nine stylish colors. Pacsafe RFID-Safe V150 Anti-Theft Passport Wallet Also from Pacsafe, this passport holder has RFID-blocking material to protect against unauthorized scans of your credit cards and IDs, with six card slots, a zippered mesh window slot for an ID card, a mesh passport holder, a boarding pass slip pocket, a zippered pocket and a pen loop. There's also a detachable strap that is reinforced with a hard-to-cut wire, and you can wear it around the wrist or secure it to a belt loop to deter pickpockets. AquaVault Anti-Theft Portable Beach Chair Vault 'As an avid beachgoer, I absolutely love the Aqua Vault FlexSafe anti-theft bag,' said travel blogger Marla Cimini. 'It's basically a portable safe that offers peace of mind.' This compact bag secures to a beach chair, umbrella or other fixed object with a combination lock you set yourself. It fits your phone, keys, wallet and other small valuables and features splash-proof, slash-resistant and RFID-blocking material. It also has mesh pockets, a belt loop, and a top handle so you can carry it like a purse or even use it as a bike bag. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag 'If a thief can't get into your bag, they'll try to take the whole thing,' Coffey said. 'People often hang purses on the backs of chairs or cover them with a jacket; [those are] easy targets. That's why it's important to secure your bag to something fixed, like a chair.' The Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag makes that a cinch with a detachable, slash-resistant strap you can loop through a chair or table. Its five-point anti-theft security system includes slash-resistant panels, locking compartments and an RFID-blocking organizer for added peace of our review Baggallini Modern Pocket Crossbody Bag Travel journalist Elizabeth Heath loves her Baggallini bag, which boasts RFID-blocking technology, a detachable strap and plenty of space for your belongings while remaining relatively compact. You'll also find plenty of compartments and pockets inside to store all your smaller items. We love the options on offer, with more than 30 colors and designs available. "I bought the bag in a neutral/unisex color so that my spouse can carry it too," Heath said. "That way, we can get by with one 'purse' when we travel, and I'm not left holding the bag and the phones, wallets, tickets, etc.' Peak Design Everyday Tote This 15-liter Peak Design Everyday Tote really lives up to its name. It's great for an adventure or holding your photo equipment, but it also works for everyday trips because it combines a sleek aesthetic with functionality that protects, organizes and gives quick access to your gear. The extra-wide opening has a weatherproof UltraZip, seals with a magnetic clasp and folds over to provide extra pickpocketing protection. Travelon Anti-Theft Urban Messenger Bag With its five-point anti-theft security system, including a lockdown strap, the Travelon Urban Anti-Theft Messenger Bag updates the Essential Messenger Bag with a sleek, squared design and a main compartment featuring two padded sleeves that can hold a 14-inch laptop along with an iPad or tablet. Buckles secure the flap over the main compartment, while the front and rear pockets have zippers, offering excellent security. It can be worn as a crossbody or over the shoulder. Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack The Pacsafe CitySafe convertible backpack is a great design with a 2-in-1 option: It can be worn as a travel backpack or folded down as a handbag or crossbody bag. Any way you wear it, you'll get all the anti-theft features standard for Pacsafe bags. It has smart zipper security, cut-resistant fabric and a cut-resistant anchor strap that stores away neatly or secures to a fixed object, along with RFID-blocking pockets. Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack Travelon's Signature Anti-Theft Backpack is a great choice for travelers looking for anti-theft features alongside a clean and functional design. The main compartment has an RFID-blocking slot that holds credit cards and passports. There's also an inner zippered wall pocket with an attached key clip with an LED light. The hidden anti-slash pocket under the flap is perfect for your cell or sunglasses. Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack Away's Everywhere Zip Backpack is constructed with water-resistant nylon, a breathable mesh back panel for extra comfort and a full wraparound zip opening for access to its spacious main compartment. Its anti-theft features include a padded 15-inch laptop pocket with a magnetic locking zipper, an external secure front zip pocket and a hidden easy-access slip pocket for your phone or passport. Shrradoo Anti-Theft Laptop Travel Backpack The Shrradoo Anti-Theft Laptop Travel Backpack is a great value at well under $30. It has a built-in lockable compartment for securing a laptop and other valuables, which provides an extra layer of security against theft. Additionally, its durable build, spacious compartments and multiple pockets, including a USB charging port and expandable water bottle sleeves, make it a practical and versatile option for our review Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L This bag is a go-to for Jarryd Salem, founder of the travel blog Nomadasaurus. 'As professional photographers, anti-theft features are crucial since we travel with expensive gear,' he said. In addition to hidden pockets and lockable zippers, Salem said the bag's best feature is its subtlety. 'They don't look like camera bags, which makes them less of a target. The less attention your gear draws, the safer it is.' Travelon Anti-Theft Packable Backpack The Travelon Anti-Theft Packable Backpack is all about optimal security and convenience for travelers. Its standout feature is the five-point anti-theft security system that includes several key elements like slash-resistant mesh barriers and stainless steel wire embedded in the straps. Locking compartments also help prevent pickpockets from accessing the contents of your bag. It's important to understand the features that can help protect your belongings. From durable materials to clever design details, here's what to look for when shopping for an anti-theft bag. Slash-resistant fabric Slash-resistant material is engineered to withstand knife attacks, a common tactic used by thieves trying to quickly cut open a bag. These fabrics are usually reinforced with steel mesh or carbon fiber wires woven into the lining, so they're extremely tough to pierce or slash. Hidden, lockable zippers and compartments Well-designed anti-theft bags feature discreet zippers and lockable compartments to outsmart pickpockets. Some zippers are hidden under flaps or panels, while others can be secured with integrated locking mechanisms. If your bag doesn't come with a lock, check out our guide to the best TSA-approved locks to find one that works for your setup. Reinforced shoulder straps Strap-cutting is another quick-grab method used by thieves. To help prevent it, look for bags with reinforced shoulder straps — often built with steel cables or high-strength fibers like Dyneema — that are extremely difficult to slice through. Secure attachment points Many anti-theft bags include locking clips or anchor points so you can secure your bag to a fixed object, like a chair or table leg. This feature is especially useful at cafés, train stations or anywhere you might briefly set your bag down. Ease of use Ultimately, you want to find an anti-theft bag that's easy to use. 'Find one that fits your dexterity level,' Coffey said. 'If the features are difficult to use and quickly secure, you're probably not going to be using it all the time, and then [the anti-theft features become] pointless.' What are the most secure anti-theft bags? What are the most secure anti-theft bags? If you're looking for secure anti-theft bags, there are several smart options to choose from. Backpacks with slash-resistant materials, lockable zippers and RFID-blocking compartments are perfect for carrying valuables like laptops while staying protected. Crossbody bags offer compact convenience with cut-proof straps and hidden pockets that deter pickpockets. For added versatility, convertible bags that switch between backpack and purse modes combine style with hidden zippers and secure compartments. Messenger bags with slash-proof panels and locking mechanisms provide both organization and peace of mind, especially for commuters. And for hands-free travel, waist packs with hidden buckles and RFID protection keep essentials close and secure. What is the difference between an anti-theft bag and a normal bag? What is the difference between an anti-theft bag and a normal bag? The main difference between anti-theft bags and regular bags is security. Anti-theft bags include features like slash-resistant materials, lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets and hidden compartments to deter thieves. Regular bags prioritize style and function but lack these protective elements, making them more vulnerable to theft. Is RFID blocking important for anti-theft bags? Is RFID blocking important for anti-theft bags? RFID blocking is a key anti-theft feature that protects credit cards, passports and IDs from wireless data theft. It prevents criminals from using scanners to steal your info without contact, adding an extra layer of security against identity theft and fraud. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Marla Cimini, an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures Kevin Coffey, author, travel safety trainer and retired Los Angeles Police Department detective who founded the Crime Investigation Detail for airport and travel-related crimes Elizabeth Heath, travel writer and editor living in central Italy Jarryd Salem, founder of the travel blog Nomadasaurus and managing director at Peak Evolution Media CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this articles, travel editor Kyle Olsen sought advice and recommendations from professionals such as retired detectives and experienced travel bloggers, to the effectiveness, practicality and real-world relevance of a wide variety of anti-theft bags.
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Price Chopper raises $73,000 for California fire relief
WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Market 32/Price Chopper collected donations from January 19th to February 15th for American Red Cross Disaster Relief at all its supermarkets across six states, including Massachusetts to aid those impacted by the California wildfires. Donations came in through Price Chopper's registers from customers who opted to round up their change with a total of $63,338.77 raised, The supermarket added $10,000, bringing the total donation to $73,338.77 that will go directly to help people in the fire-impacted communities. The Palisades and Eaton wildfires destroyed more than 15,000 structures in the Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Altadena, and Pasadena, most of them homes. Thousands more were damaged, and over two dozen people lost their lives. The recovery will take years, if not decades, and will cost tens of billions of dollars. Over this time, the victims are in need of significant support. To donate, visit the American Red Cross online. California governor asks Congress for nearly $40 billion for Los Angeles wildfire relief The American Red Cross is operating disaster recovery centers and providing emergency shelter, meals and snacks, emotional support, and financial assistance. 'At Market 32/Price Chopper, we believe in stepping up in times of crisis, and we are grateful to our customers for standing alongside us in support of the American Red Cross California Wildfire Fund,' said Blaine Bringhurst, Market 32/Price Chopper president. 'Compassion and shared humanity connect us, no matter the distance. The destruction and devastation are difficult to comprehend, and we're incredibly proud of these results and the impact this funding will have in supporting those who have endured great loss.' 'When thousands of Southern Californians faced the devastating loss of their homes and communities, the American Red Cross was there meeting their urgent need for food, shelter, and mental health services, ensuring no one had to face this heartbreak alone,' said Kevin Coffey, Regional Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross Eastern New York Region. 'We are so grateful to Market 32/Price Chopper and their customers for their generosity and ongoing support for our critical mission. Their support ensures we can be there for our neighbors in need 24/7, bringing hope and healing when needed most.' WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
