35 Best Pickpocket Proof Bags & Purses Of 2025

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

Because TikTok has taught us that pickpockets are lurking while you're getting the perfect pic of a gondola cruising down a canal.

Promising review: "I used these on my backpack when traveling on a cruise and on a 30 day road trip. I felt more confident that no one could come by and unzip my bag easily. Not hard for me to undo but it definitely would deter someone because I would have felt someone trying to undo." —Missy

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $12.99 (available in four color combos).

Promising review: "Super cute, solid hardware, and very easy to use. They are juuust the right size- not too big but big enough to make a cute statement on your bag or purse. I think these look very classy and don't read as a carabiner at all. Super elegant." —Amazon Customer

Get two from Amazon for $8.90 (available in two sizes).

Arden Cove is a woman-owned brand founded by sisters Carmen and Karin Yuen after carrying disappointing bags and gear while globetrotting.

It has a waterproof body and zipper, slash-proof lining all around, locking zippers, RFID blocking material, a chain shoulder that strap attaches to a post or chair, built-in wallet, shoulder pad on strap for added comfort, bottom studs to protect it from wear and tear when setting the bag down, and an interior D-ring to attach a keychain.

Promising review: "I used this purse extensively when I traveled to Europe this summer. It was large enough to carry my two eyeglass cases, cell phone, wallet, lipstick. The two separate zippered compartments have a locking feature that prevents pick-pockets from getting easily into the bag. I felt so confident walking around Europe that none of my personal items or information were being stolen that it made the trip soooo much nicer. In addition, it IS water-proof(Got caught in a downpour in Scotland & the contents inside stayed dry). I would highly recommend getting this purse!!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $179 (available in three colors and three chain drop lengths).

I wear a size L/XL in clothing and sometimes waist bags just don't work out so well for me. With this one, I can confirm that it fit around my waist comfortably without outerwear, across my chest without outerwear, *and* over a thick coat and several layers. The pockets inside are so handy and I even had room to spare throughout my Iceland trip. This was the only purse I brought for the whole trip and it performed its job flawlessly. Just make sure that you zip the zipper ALL the way, because the zipper goes down pretty far on the sides for easier access to contents. Having my hands free was wildly convenient for a number of reasons, including crawling around inside of an ice cave and putting out my hands for some extra balance while walking on sheets of ice along cliffs. Oh, and it comes in so so SO many colors. And in case it looks familiar, TikTokers compare it to the Lulu waist bag.

Promising review: "Love this little bag! And the price — you can’t beat it." —Jolie

Get it from Amazon for $12.98+ (available in 39 styles).

Cincha Travel is a small biz in California that develops adjustable travel belts made out of vegan leather. The brand donates 100 airline miles for each purchase, which are used to reconnect separated migrant families.

Check out a TikTok of the Cincha belt bag in action. When flying with this, I rec leaving it on as the belt for your suitcase while boarding your flight. On a few flights I've been on this year, I've heard gate agents make people put their belt bags worn around their waist or cross-body into their personal item. So just be mindful of that!

Promising review: "Great little double-duty bag. Highly recommend. I could fit four passports, an iPhone, a slim wallet, and many more things in my new travel bag. A must for your next adventure." —Lindsay

Get it from Cincha Travel for $49.99 (available in four colors).

Not only does the backpack open from the inside, but it also has a phone pocket, document pocket, front zippered pocket, and an exterior side pocket. It's also made of nylon, so it's waterproof and has a strap to change it into a shoulder bag.

Promising review: "This backpack lasted an entire trip through several airports and layovers, and all across our trip through Europe. It was amazing. Because the main zipper sat against my back, I never worried about getting my items stolen. But I also had the luxury of having the two front zippers that were also surprisingly spacious to hold nonprecious items such as water bottles or cheap sunglasses, etc. This backpack also is extremely durable. It was the perfect day pack to gather knick-knacks and souvenirs for friends and family and hold whatever I shoved in it!" —H Bradshaw

Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (clip the coupon on the product page to save 5%; available in two sizes and 14 colors).

Promising review: "This is hands down the best backpack when traveling abroad. The security features are amazing and I did not have to worry theft since the zippers are hidden." —Amazon Customer

"Used this backpack when I traveled to Italy! It kept the pickpockets from taking my things as the zipper is concealed and on my back.You would definitely notice someone trying to unzip!" —Datsrt

Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in four colors).

Promising reviews: "So love this product, I hardly notice that I was wearing this the whole time during my trip in Paris especially — when we taking the metro." —grace

Get it from Amazon for $18.95+ (available in two colors).

I own this bag in the gorgeous green shown here and have been dripping in compliments when I carry it out and about. The strap is long and sturdy enough to wear crossbody over my heavy faux-fur coats, and it just looks way more expensive than it is. I'm packing it as one of my two (maybe three?) bags for an upcoming trip that includes stops in Paris, Bologna, and Milan without worry of pickpockets because it feels so secure.

Get it from M. Gemi for $278 (available in six colors).

The bag has hidden, slash-proof, chain link construction and an adjustable, cable-reinforced, cut-proof shoulder strap. Plus, a locking zipper.

Promising review: "Bought this bag last minute before my 1-month trip to Spain. It was such a lifesaver! There is so much pickpocketing in the cities, and there was no way anyone could do this. I held both of my teenagers' wallets, and I could even go to Hydro Flasks on the expandable sides. Love this, and we’ll take it with me every time I travel now." —JLar

Get it from Amazon for $49.48+ (available in three colors).

Former BuzzFeeder Abby Kass used these on a trip: "My mom and I both used these when we went to Paris in January 2020 and loved them. They're super convenient to use and since we visited in the winter, we actually kept them under our coats, so nobody (especially pickpockets) could see them. I like how nice the case and strap looked and that I could hold my phone out over the ledge of the Eiffel Tower ledge for an epic sunset shot, and not worry about it falling to its death. Plus, the attached wallet is perfect to stash a credit card, ID, and even a subway ticket. Can you see it chilling at my side in the right photo? Yep, that's where it was the entire trip and will be every other trip I take."

Promising review: "I’m obsessed with my Bandolier. It’s so useful having my phone and Metro Card so accessible so I don’t have to dig through my bags. I feel comfortable wearing it, and I love the hands-free aspect. I never worry about someone stealing it, and I don’t go anywhere without it!!!" —Lo

Get it from Amazon for $112 (available in eight iPhone models and four color combinations).

Promising review: "Finally, a purse that fits my phone perfectly and my necessities. I always like having my phone with me, but my back pocket isn’t really cutting it anymore. On top of that, without a purse, I don’t have a place for my keys, money or anything else. I like that I can carry this crossbody and be hands-free of all those things. The zippers keeps everything secured well. It’s stylish and durable and can be adjusted for a custom fit." —Heavy Duty

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in eight styles).

Promising review: "Bought for a trip to Vegas, didn’t want to worry about losing anything or being pickpocketed. Pockets close to the wearer’s back and discreet — worked perfectly. Got SO MUCH STUFF IN THIS!! Easily fits almost all sizes/heights/widths of water bottles." —Jessica Jordan

Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in 14 colors/styles).

MKP Collection is a small biz specializing in bags.

Promising review: "There is so much room in this bag! Pockets? Everywhere! Strap to carry on your shoulder OR- of course, the backpack shoulder straps and they are very comfortable! I carried a lot in my bag yesterday and carried it all on my shoulders and the straps, in no way, dug into my shoulders. Just perfect. AND... the pink color I chose is everything!!!!! It's so satisfying!!!! And I don't normally talk like that. ❤️" —Melanie

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (clip the coupon on the product page to save 5%; available in 15 colors).

Citrusy Boutique is a small biz specializing in fashion accessories.

Promising review: "Honestly, so worth the purchase. The black-on-black looks sleek and expensive. One of my fave Amazon purchases in a while. Looks like luxury but on a cheap budget!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in seven styles and short or extended strap lengths).

Promising review: "Discreet yet spacious. I purchased this for a recent trip. I was able to fit my phone, passport, credit cards, and cash in it easily and it wasn’t bulky or obvious under my clothing. It was comfortable to wear for extended periods of time." —KailensMom

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 20 styles and two sizes).

Promising review: "Perfect travel purse. This purse was lightweight and held enough but not so much to make it heavy. The strap was comfortable and the compartments were perfect for easy accessibility (for you) to your phone while still keeping everything locked up and secure from pick picketers. It is big enough to fit a small umbrella, possibly a tiny scarf if you’re going to basilicas where shoulders must be covered. Compartments were good for cards, cash, and lipstick. It was all I needed for two weeks in Italy." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in four colors).

Promising review: "I bought this for a Mediterranean cruise and it was perfect! It fit my cell phone, battery pack, wallet, and passport very comfortably. Loved that it was very versatile and comfortable to wear leaving my hands free and not having to worry about pickpockets in crowded tourist areas." —Jane

Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in two sizes and 38 colors).

Here's what my colleague Chelsea Stuart has to say: "This is a great (read: cheaper) alternative to Baggu's frequently sold-out Nylon Crescent Bag. It's super spacious despite its small appearance, it has an interior pocket for important stuff, and the strap is adjustable so you can wear it a few different ways. I like that it's soft and slouchy so when I don't have much in there, it's super compact."

Promising review: "This bag is perfect for everyday use! It fits everything I need like my phone, wallet, Chapstick, hand sanitizer, and sunglasses, and still has so much space leftover for anything else I may need to carry along with me for the day!" —Tiffany

Get it from Uniqlo for $19.90 (available in eight colors).

Sherpani is a small biz specializing in bags and has a dedicated anti-theft collection. As for this bag's anti-theft features, it has RFID protection, exterior zipper lock tunnels, a clip lock for the main compartment opening, and a chair loop lock system. The bottom of the bag is lined with anti-slash fabric and the main strap is also slash-proof.

Though this can convert to a crossbody, one reviewer mentioned that they didn't like that feature as much (also that whole review is a great read!).

Promising review: "I’ve been searching for the perfect work bag for the last three years. This one is it! It accommodates my work issued laptop and I’m able to zip it closed with the laptop inside. I love that I can put my Hydro flask in the side pocket or on the inside. The straps are padded and comfortable as well. I have finally found my work bag." —Tanya Jahr

Get it from Amazon for $83.50+ (available in seven colors).

Promising review: "Excellent travel bag! This crossbody bag is secure and provides RFID protection. Comfortable to wear/carry and easy to wipe down for cleaning. Purchased bag for travel and it may become a daily usage bag too! Highly recommend!" —Teresa G.

Get it from Amazon for $42+ (available in 13 colors and a smaller size).

I snagged this backpack after hearing my colleague Chelsea Stuart sing its praises. I had a trusty (now discontinued) InCase backpack I used as a personal item, and it served me well on dozens of trips for about five years. But I wanted a bag that opens up like a suitcase for easier packing. Since buying, I've taken it on countless weekends and international trips. Including, like I said up there ^, to Iceland with just this and a space vac bag full of clothes.

Inside, you'll find a mesh zippered pocket and a plastic pocket perfect for your toiletries. I can fit enough wet toilet toiletries in the second pocket as I'd be allowed to carry on for a plane. In the mesh pocket, I put other necessities like cotton swabs, medicine, eyeglasses, etc. The main compartment is deceptively deep, so you can easily roll clothes and Lego-fit them in together without using packing cubes. In fact, I fit all of the stuff in the second picture in that section (a romper, PJs, a bikini, sunscreen, five pairs of undies, a pair of jean shorts, a nap dress, three pairs of socks, two pairs of sandals, two T-shirts, a slip skirt, sleep mask, curling iron, mini flat iron, makeup bag, and tote bag). AND it has stretchy X-straps to keep it all secure like you'd see in a roller suitcase so when I unzip it, everything stays put. But before I forget, there's a separate cushioned laptop pocket close to the backpack straps that I found works well for books or a Kindle if your travel leaves you laptop-less.

I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won't fall out. In fact, I stuck a flashlight and an umbrella in one side pocket. (You could always use a flashlight.) Plus! It has a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, writing pens...all sorts of those little extras you need to access quickly. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into overhead storage compartments on the trains. I love the look and construction of it with faux leather and sturdy black canvas, and the trolley passthrough to easily fit on my roller suitcase I'm about to drag through a bunch of airports. At nearly $80, this isn't the cheapest backpack option but if you're a frequent traveler, you'll get so much mileage on it and seriously save on some baggage fees, making it well worth the cost. This backpack and I are going places, for sure. And if something ever happens to it — though I highly doubt it because it's SO sturdy — I'll 100% buy another. I'm obsessed!

Get it from Beis Travel for $118 (available in seven colors).

Promising review: "I bought this for a trip to Greece, and it was a lifesaver! With the pockets, I could also use it as a purse!" —Julia

Get it from Amazon for $12.73+ (clip the coupon to save 20%; available in 14 colors).

Here's what BuzzFeed writer Amanda Davis had to say about this backpack:

"My partner has had this backpack for YEARS (he did the custom colors option) and still uses it daily. Whether he's commuting to work, to a coffee shop, or away for the weekend — this is literally the bag he'll grab, no questions asked. He says it's incredibly durable, and I think it still looks great even after constant use!"

Get it from Timbuk2 for $89+ (available in five colors or a custom option).

I own the Luka Duffel in the color 'oatmeal', and I use it EVERY TIME I travel. Whether I use it solo for a short weekend trip or as a personal item with a carry-on and a checked bag. Either way, this duffle will definitely be with me. My favorite part has to be the exterior shoe compartment, but I also love that there are TONS of spacious pockets inside and outside the bag — there's even one hidden in the convenient trolley sleeve. The puffy material is also water-resistant and makes the straps comfy, too (although I still appreciate the long adjustable shoulder strap that comes with it). I love it!

Get it from Calpak for $126.40+ (available in two sizes and four classic colors; limited edition colors may vary).

It folds into a tiny pouch when not in use, is tear and water-resistant, and even has a separate side pocket for shoes. There's also a side strap that slides easily over your roller luggage handle.

Promising review: "We bought this to take with us when we visited our daughter who is studying abroad for four months. We figured she would not have enough room in her luggage when it was time to come home. Folded up, this bag was so compact and lightweight, it took up almost no room in our own luggage for the trip over. Then, sure enough, she had a ton of clothes and shoes to send home with us and packed this bag full. We checked the bag, and it made it through two international flights without a scratch. The BEST feature is the side strap that allows you to slide it over the handle of a rolling suitcase so you don't have to carry it. This is probably the most practical and the best-value item I have purchased in years." —Tosa Mom

Get it from Amazon for $17.99 (available in 11 colors/patterns).

This one checks all the boxes: super roomy, has plenty of pockets (including one for shoes and a separate wet bag!), and has a strap that slides down over your luggage handle for easy transport. And reviewers say it meets even Spirit and JetBlue's personal item rules and fits under airplane seats!

Promising review: "One bag handled a week of travel! This bag is like magic! I fit four pairs of shorts, four shirts, underwear, socks, and a couple of workout outfits with sports bras, two pairs of sandals, four bathing suits, a coverup, a sun hat, toiletries, cosmetics, a laptop, a notebook, three device chargers (computer, phone, and Fitbit) and an electric toothbrush. Even when packed to the max, the weight is comfortably distributed so it doesn’t break your back. It fits under the seat perfectly, too. I bought it when it was 50% off, but I’d pay full price knowing how awesome this bag is for travel." —AlexanderK

Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in four sizes and 19 colors/styles)

Promising reviews: "I instantly loved this purse when it arrived. It was packaged so nicely in a gift box with a cloth bag inside. The blue is the perfect sky blue. It is a bit shiny, holds its shape, the handle works well in the crook of an elbow or over the shoulder. LOVE IT." —McLulu

"I was looking for a smaller purse for summer outings/vacations, dinners, weddings etc. It’s perfect!" —Cristi

Get it from Amazon for $50.14+ (available in seven colors).

Promising review: "I recently took a cross-country flight with my three kids. I really didn't want to worry about checked bags getting lost so maximizing our carry-ons was a priority. This backpack fit an unfathomable amount of stuff! Lots of zippers and compartments for everything from shoes to laptops/iPads, easy access compartments for cell phones and boarding passes, I fit tons of neatly folded clothes. The best part was that fully loaded it easily slid under the seat." —Kindle Customer

Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in five sizes and 38 styles).

The wallet comes with a boarding pass compartment, a passport compartment, three credit card slots, an ID slot, a slim card pouch, a ticket slot, a slim pocket, a cellphone pouch, a coin zippered pocket, a key holder, and a place to put your pen.

Promising review: "I absolutely love this wallet. I needed a new travel wallet, and this holds everything I need all in one place, and it still closes nicely and stays flat! I can fit my boarding pass, passport, ID, credit cards, money, checked baggage tickets, receipts, and more in it, yet it doesn’t bulk up or look like an overstuffed mess. It's just amazing. The description says it only holds US money, but I just used the boarding pass flap to hold all my Japanese Yen, which are larger. I didn’t use the zippered pocket for coins as I much prefer a separate coin purse for that sort of thing. I definitely recommend to anyone who travels a lot!" —Anthony Luu

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 12 colors).

Promising review: "This product was just as described. It fits comfortably and securely. I plan to use mine with international travel, so my cards and documents are handy." —DSCin AZ

Get it from Amazon for $23.95+ (available in four colors).

Promising review: "I wanted a go-to 'pick up and run' item which would keep me organized. I love the sleek style of this backpack purse. It’s simple in design, yet so functional on many levels. This also allows me to take it on a plane easily – holding everything and more. For the price, that is a power puncher. Added bonuses are the phone charger and luggage strap. I usually have a very cute briefcase but backpacks even out the weight and make carrying easier. Update: after using this bag now for three years and it's still in such great condition. We were traveling every other week or so for a while there, so it got soo much use! A laptop, a tablet, books, wipes, two side pockets for water, it's PERFECT. Flight attendants always ask me about it. I know of a dozen friends who jumped on the wagon and purchased this as well...NO COMPLAINTS. Three years and going strong!" —Caribare

Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in two sizes and six colors).

Promising review: "I work at a school and bought this mini-size backpack for work. It has two pockets which hold a lot of stuff and is very sturdy. I can fit a 16.9 FL OZ size water bottle inside of it. The quality is excellent, and it’s very comfortable to wear throughout the day. It’s a great value for your money, and I really love Hershel products! I would definitely buy this backpack again!" —QueenBee of 3 Boys

Get it from Amazon for $33.17+ (available in three colors).

BuzzFeed contributor Courtney Hayes owns a couple of Clare V. bags: "My Clare V. bags are some of my favorites. They're a splurge but my cost-per-wear is essentially pennies at this point. They're somehow both classic and trendy, plus the quality can't be beat. I read somewhere that these are 'legacy bags' and I couldn't agree more."

Get it from Clare V. for $325+ (available in 12 colors/styles).

Check out their bag straps and other bag accessories.

Promising review: "I love the compartments , the appearance and I have a strap that came with it...it can be a backpack or a shoulder bag...my Bible fits very well in this bag...I love the color, very durable." —Carolyn Moye

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in 16 colors).

Promising review: "Gorgeous bag. The material is so easy to clean. It's beyond sturdy and looks very chic. The zipper pocket inside is great for storing things discreetly. The length is great. It sits perfectly under my arm with a little bit of room still. Overall great purchase." —Mary

Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in eight colors and one other style).

Promising review: "Love this bag so much and how all seasonal year rounds the colors are! I've already gotten many compliments on it and can't wait to take it on my beach vacation next month!" —Arianakalani

Get it from Anthropologie for $88 (available in 11 styles and check out more styles here).

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.