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4 days ago
- Business
My Mom Has Been to 40+ States for Work, and This $15 Carry-on Hack Is the Most Genius Tip She's Taught Me
It's safe to say my mom is a travel expert. After visiting 45 states and over 15 countries, she's learned a thing or two about packing the perfect bag and getting through TSA security with ease. I thought I knew all her tricks, but during her last visit to New York, I noticed something new. Instead of simply placing her personal item bag on top of her carry-on suitcase, she fastened them together . Apparently, she's been doing this for years . In 2016, my mom discovered the Travelon Bag Bungee on Amazon and hasn't traveled without it. The handy contraption, which is a longtime-favorite travel accessory for flight attendants and frequent fliers, keeps her personal item bag off her shoulders, allowing her to navigate the airport with ease. It's no wonder she always beats me to the gate. Thanks to its low-profile design, the luggage strap blends in seamlessly with her luggage while keeping her items protected. Plus, the mechanics are simple. You just have to attach the cord to your luggage handle, then place your personal item on top, and lock it in place. The rope is made with a flexible material and can stretch to accommodate anything from a small purse to a large carry-on. It can even hold up to 40 pounds, and with some careful maneuvering, you can position it to hold multiple bags in place. According to my mother, buying this device has saved her from spending money on new luggage. It's especially helpful for business travel. 'Some of the travel bags that are out there aren't stylish for work,' she said. 'I don't want to come into a meeting with a backpack, so having the bungee allows me to keep my work tote.' Rest assured, this item is perfect for a vacation too. If you tend to overpack (like me), the bungee-cord system will prevent your items from spilling out. Whether you're hoping to free up your hands while traveling or want to ensure your luggage is safe, the Travelon Bag Bungee is sure to come in handy. If you're interested in trying this hack, you can grab one on Amazon before your next trip. Scroll down for even more genius luggage straps to add to your travel day repertoire, starting at just $7. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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7 days ago
- Business
The 50 Best Amazon Outlet Deals for Travelers—Shop Samsonite, Adidas, Skechers, and More From $5
As a shopping writer, my job is finding the biggest online deals, leading me to lesser-known spots filled with incredible discounts on travel essentials. My favorite under-the-radar shopping destination is the Amazon Outlet store because I always check out feeling like I hit the jackpot, and right now it's filled with travel essentials up to 74 percent off. The online retailer's outlet has early summer overstock deals on popular items, like Samsonite travel bags and Skechers walking shoes. So, whether you're looking for sleek new luggage for a low price or a fresh outfit to wear on the plane, you can count on Amazon's hidden outlet to have massive deals available. Keep reading to find must-haves to refresh your travel arsenal, with prices starting as low as $5. 27,000+ five stars: Skechers D'Lites Fresh Start Sneakers, $60 (originally $74) Skechers D'Lites Fresh Start Sneakers, $60 (originally $74) 74% off: Adidas Crosshatch Golf Pants, $24 (originally $90) Adidas Crosshatch Golf Pants, $24 (originally $90) Anti-theft pick: Travelon Convertible Sling Bag, $12 (originally $20) Travelon Convertible Sling Bag, $12 (originally $20) Suitcase organizer: TravelWise Packing Cubes, $26 (originally $39) TravelWise Packing Cubes, $26 (originally $39) Top carry-on pick: Verage Underseat Carry-on Luggage, $89 (originally $130) Verage Underseat Carry-on Luggage, $89 (originally $130) Under $50: Adidas Weekender Mini Backpack, $34 (originally $55) Adidas Weekender Mini Backpack, $34 (originally $55) Most compact: Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Tote Bag, $29 (originally $40) Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Tote Bag, $29 (originally $40) Weekend getaway MVP: Vera Bradley Cotton Duffel Bag, $40 (originally $80) Vera Bradley Cotton Duffel Bag, $40 (originally $80) Packing essential: Etekcity Digital Luggage Scale, $9 (originally $11) Etekcity Digital Luggage Scale, $9 (originally $11) Best personal item: Hanke Carry-on Luggage, $88 (originally $110) Amazon's Outlet has practically everything you could need for traveling, but at a very reduced price. That includes these traveler-loved Skechers sneakers that shoppers have described as a 'game-changer' for feet. This Samsonite weekender bag is on sale for less than $100 and has pockets for your laptop and water bottle, and has a handy sleeve that slides over the handle of your carry-on suitcase. No matter where you're going, you'll want to travel with a trusty set of luggage, like this on-sale luggage from Bagsmart that comes with a carry-on and a duffel bag for less than the cost of one suitcase. For weekend getaways, you'll want this Vera Bradley duffel bag, which has a gorgeous pattern you'll easily be able to spot in the overhead bin—it's currently at the lowest price it's been in a month. Suitcase space saver: Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Tote Bag, $29 (originally $40) Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Tote Bag, $29 (originally $40) 2-for-1: Bagsmart Carry-on Luggage and Duffel Set, $53 (originally $66) Bagsmart Carry-on Luggage and Duffel Set, $53 (originally $66) Perfect everyday bag: Travelon RFID-blocking Travel Wallet, $15 (originally $19) Travelon RFID-blocking Travel Wallet, $15 (originally $19) Carry-on-only traveler-loved: Verage Underseat Carry-on Luggage, $89 (originally $130) Verage Underseat Carry-on Luggage, $89 (originally $130) Under-$100 luggage pick: Hanke Carry-on Luggage, $88 (originally $110) Hanke Carry-on Luggage, $88 (originally $110) Samsonite Virtuosa Weekender Duffel Bag, $59 (originally $100) Adidas Weekender Mini Backpack, $34 (originally $55) Vera Bradley Cotton Duffel, $40 (originally $80) Travelon Convertible Sling Bag, $12 (originally $20) Amazon Basics 2-piece Luggage Set, $42 (originally $50) You can also take advantage of major Amazon Outlet markdowns on travel-friendly clothes, like this breezy pair of linen shorts that are stylish and lightweight enough for beach getaways. This Eddie Bauer travel dress has a versatile design you can wear for sightseeing, then dress up with jewelry and heels for a nice dinner. Day-to-night look: Eddie Bauer Aster Crossover Dress, $28 (originally $90) Eddie Bauer Aster Crossover Dress, $28 (originally $90) Under-$50 pick: Adidas Men's Crosshatch Golf Pants, $24 (originally $90) Adidas Men's Crosshatch Golf Pants, $24 (originally $90) Perfect airport outfit: Ekouaer Two-piece Lounge Set, $31 (originally $50) Ekouaer Two-piece Lounge Set, $31 (originally $50) Cool layering piece: Dokotoo Chunky Knit Cardigan, $20 (originally $40) Dokotoo Chunky Knit Cardigan, $20 (originally $40) Unde- $20 find: Arolina Short-sleeve T-shirt Dress, $17 (originally $20) Arolina Short-sleeve T-shirt Dress, $17 (originally $20) Amazon Essentials Short-sleeve Maxi Dress, $16 (originally $27) Lee Men's Extreme Motion Shorts, $23 (originally $35) Dokotoo Pom Pom Short-sleeve Shirt, $10 (originally $20) Vichyie Tank Top, $14 (originally $19) Lnx Linen Shorts, $10 (originally $20) You'll find plenty of deals on comfy shoes at Amazon's outlet, including a pair of ultra-supportive walking sneakers from Ryka that are less than $100. These Skechers slip-on shoes have a memory foam insole for extra comfort, plus they'll spare you the trouble of untying and retying laces to get through airport security.. Best white sneakers: Skechers D'Lites Fresh Start Sneakers, $60 (originally $74) Skechers D'Lites Fresh Start Sneakers, $60 (originally $74) Comfiest walking shoes: Ryka Devotion X Max Walking Shoes, $68 (originally $120) Ryka Devotion X Max Walking Shoes, $68 (originally $120) 16,000+ five stars: Keen Whisper Closed-toe Sport Sandals, $66 (originally $115) Keen Whisper Closed-toe Sport Sandals, $66 (originally $115) Airport security-friendly: Skechers Slip-Ins Skip Cute Sneakers, $45 (originally $65) Skechers Slip-Ins Skip Cute Sneakers, $45 (originally $65) Summer travel must: Naturalizer Soul Goodtimes Wedge Sandals, $70 (originally $100) Naturalizer Soul Goodtimes Wedge Sandals, $70 (originally $100) Skechers Arya-Sweet Slip-in Loafers, $42 (originally $75) Clarks Breeze Sea Sandal, $30 (originally $55) Teva Men's Mush II Flip-flops, $28 (originally $34) White Mountain Helga Flat Sandals, $25 (originally $59) Naturalizer Soul Cindi Sandals, $53 (originally $90) Clarks Laurieann Kay Sandals, $57 (originally $85) The Amazon Outlet has discounts on handy accessories that'll take some of the stress of traveling away while making you a more savvy traveler. This digital luggage scale is less than $10 and can quickly tell you how much your suitcase weighs (to save you from being surprised or paying overweight fees at the airport). This set of packing cubes, on the other hand, will keep your clothes sorted and organized, resulting in more suitcase real estate for extra "just in case" items. Under-$10 pick: Etekcity Digital Luggage Scale, $9 (originally $11) Etekcity Digital Luggage Scale, $9 (originally $11) Overpacker must-have: TravelWise Packing Cubes, $26 (originally $39) TravelWise Packing Cubes, $26 (originally $39) 50% off: Sizobi Passport Holder, $5 (originally $10) Sizobi Passport Holder, $5 (originally $10) Smart luggage identifier: Sodsay Luggage Tags, $5 (originally $10) Sodsay Luggage Tags, $5 (originally $10) SwissGear TSA-approved Luggage Locks, $9 (originally $ Mifaso 2-pack European Travel Plug Adapter, $14 (originally $19) Magarrow Utility Luggage Straps, $5 (originally $10) Travelon Luggage Lock, $8 (originally $12) Totes Umbrella, $19 (originally $36) Travelon Seat Pack Organizer, $10 (originally $15) The deals even extend to outdoor gear that'll add convenience to outdoor adventures, including a car air mattress with an included pump, so you can sleep comfortably while driving across the country. This $22 hydration backpack makes hydrating easy while on the go, whether you're hiking a trail, biking, or running, with its hands-free design that also provides extra storage for your essentials. Nearly 100,000 five stars: LifeStraw Personal Water Purifiers, $28 (originally $40) LifeStraw Personal Water Purifiers, $28 (originally $40) Hiking must-have: Mobihome Hydration Backpack, $22 (originally $26) Mobihome Hydration Backpack, $22 (originally $26) Top cooler deal: Igloo Backpack Cooler, $45 (originally $69) Igloo Backpack Cooler, $45 (originally $69) 2 for the price of 1: Fundango Camping Chairs 2-packs, $88 (originally $110) Fundango Camping Chairs 2-packs, $88 (originally $110) 5-minute setup : Uboway 8-person Beach Canopy, $45 (originally $90) : Uboway 8-person Beach Canopy, $45 (originally $90) Iswees Car Air Mattress, $35 (originally $50) Adidas Stainless Steel Water Bottle, $16 (originally $30) Energizer LED Headlamp, $10 (originally $20) Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket, $53 (originally $179) Adidas Men's Bucket Sun Hat, $22 (originally $34) 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.
