The Best Anti-Theft Backpacks for Vegas, Airports & Everyday Security
- Eric Beuning
- Apr 13
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 4
For all its glitz, glamour, and high-rolling energy, Las Vegas has a quieter side most visitors never think about—until it’s too late. Beneath the neon lights, skilled pickpockets and bag snatchers work the crowds with expert precision, targeting distracted tourists who are dazzled by the spectacle around them.
On my last trip to Vegas, I watched two backpacks get snatched in broad daylight—and even had someone try to lift my wallet. According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, overall reported offenses climbed slightly in 2023 to more than 133,000 incidents, with property crimes still topping the list in tourist-heavy areas.
That doesn’t mean Vegas is unsafe. It just means you need to play it smart. Whether you’re weaving through the Strip, catching a flight, or navigating crowded terminals, protecting your gear starts with the right bag. And that’s where a quality anti-theft backpack comes in—designed with lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and slash-proof materials that keep your valuables exactly where they belong: with you.
Why Anti-Theft Backpacks Are a Must in Las Vegas
Getting around Las Vegas requires a lot of walking. Especially on the strip and downtown. Crowded attractions make it a hotspot for opportunistic theft attempts, and experienced would-be thieves know how to spot a vulnerable backpack.
The best anti-theft backpacks have hidden zippers, are made from slash-resistant materials, and often have RFID-blocking compartments to keep your valuables secure.
Not only are they practical for walking the streets of Vegas, but they’re also invaluable in airports and everyday suburban life. So, they have value every time you travel and give you peace of mind walking the city streets back home.
The Best Anti-Theft Backpacks for Las Vegas & Airport Travel
Having worked a little bit in security and product testing in the past, I think the following are some of the best anti-theft backpacks for the money. They have the safety and security features you need to keep your personal valuables safe while also being fairly stylish.
Equipped with locking compartments, slash-resistant body and straps, and RFID-blocking
pockets, this backpack is designed for maximum security. I like how the zips and pulls are cleverly disguised with this discreet anti-theft backpack. This might seem like a little thing, but it’s exactly the sort of feature that pack snatchers will notice and look for an easier target.
This cross-body pack features slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and a built-in stainless steel wire mesh to deter thieves. Being a crossbody bag, it can’t be pulled off a single
shoulder, while still giving you the ability to quickly sling it to the front when you need to take something out of it.
Built-In Theft Protection: Outfitted with Pacsafe’s award-winning eXomesh Slashguard stainless-steel wire mesh and RFID-blocking pockets to keep both your gear and personal data secure.
Lockable Design: All main compartments feature lockable zippers, and the entire bag can be locked to a fixed object.
Crossbody Convenience: The single-strap design keeps the bag close to your body and out of reach of grab-and-run thieves.
Compact Yet Spacious: Thoughtfully designed compartments fit your phone, wallet, and sunglasses.
Travel-Ready Comfort: Lightweight and padded with a breathable back panel that keeps you cool.
Sleek, Unisex Style: The minimalist urban look pairs easily with both travel wear and casual outfits.
I also love that it's built to be locked onto objects. So, let’s say you’re at a store and you need to use the restroom, but they have a strict policy of no bags being allowed in the bathroom. In a moment like this, you can simply lock the pack onto something and secure the panels without having to worry about it.
I love how this anti-theft backpack combines security with convenience. It includes a smart secure lock, USB charging port, and multiple compartments. It's tough enough to also handle life in an overhead bin of an airplane, allowing you to keep everything you need with you when you fly.
Smart Security Lock: Built-in combination lock helps protect your valuables and documents on the go.
USB Charging Port: Stay powered up while traveling—charge your devices directly from your backpack.
Durable & Travel-Ready: Rigid construction handles overhead bins and daily commuting with ease.
Waterproof Protection: Sealed compartments keep electronics and paperwork safe, even in sudden downpours.
Organized Interior: Multiple pockets designed for laptops, tablets, and important files.
Professional Look: Sleek, modern design ideal for business travel or everyday urban use.
I used this backpack on a courier contract where I needed to transport sensitive documents and two laptops for a client. I deeply appreciated its waterproof compartments when I was caught out in a cloudburst rainstorm!
This FENRUIEN Anti-Theft Backpack combines sleek style with smart security features, including a hidden zipper design and a durable, water-repellent shell.
Its expandable capacity and USB charging port make it perfect for navigating airports or city streets like the Las Vegas Strip.
Hidden Zipper Design: Keeps your valuables protected from quick-grab thefts in crowded areas.
Durable Shell: Made with a tough, water-repellent exterior to withstand daily travel and weather.
Expandable Storage: Adjustable capacity for everything from tech gear to travel essentials.
USB Charging Port: Charge devices conveniently while moving through airports or the city.
Shockproof Compartments: Structured interior keeps laptops and electronics secure in transit.
Sleek Travel Design: Fits easily under airplane seats and offers a professional, modern look.
I really love its structured design and shockproof compartments. My friend has one of these, and when we flew together last year, I had a small case of “Bag Envy” watching him move it through the TSA checkpoint easily, and then quickly tuck it under his seat on the plane.
Companion Security Accessories for Las Vegas Travel
The following are some other safety and security accessories I recommend for a Las Vegas vacation and walking the Vegas Strip.
This money belt is discrete, and lets you keep all your important items like wallet, money and passport strapped to your person. I appreciate how comfortable it is when you sit down. I wore this through an entire showing of Cirque du Soleil Mystere on the Las Vegas Strip without a problem.
This Zero Grid neck wallet is also a handy way to keep your money, cards, and passport safe in Las Vegas. My mother used to use this when she traveled and would tuck it in her bra.
In Las Vegas, pepper spray is one of those things where it’s better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. However, the TSA has very strict and complex guidelines about what types of pepper spray can be brought on a plane. This Sabre Pepper Spray meets those criteria and can be legally transported inside checked baggage.
NOTE: Some airlines have their own separate rules about pepper spray, so be sure to check them.
Final Thoughts on Anti-Theft Backpacks in Las Vegas
Prioritizing security doesn't mean compromising on style or convenience. With the right anti-theft backpack and accessories, you can enjoy all that Las Vegas has to offer with confidence.
My standard practice is to have one backpack for every two adults. Children never wear backpacks, as bag snatchers know their packs are easily taken and often have electronics that are easy to pawn.
Bag snatchers are more likely to come up from behind you, whereas pickpockets will usually approach you while walking the other way. As a large man, I make sure to make momentary eye contact with suspicious-looking people walking toward me, as would-be pickpockets are far less likely to act if they feel “Seen.” Then, I will make it a point to glance back before stopping at a crosswalk. All it takes is a momentary turn of your head to make a would-be pack snatcher think twice. And of course, backpacks are always worn on both shoulders when walking the Las Vegas Strip.
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