<\/span><\/h2>\nThe best of these backpacks gives you the peace of mind that you need to really enjoy your travels. This means that you’ll know that your credit cards, camera, passport, jewelry and any other valuables are safely stored.<\/p>\n
A wide variety of these backpacks is available today. Some have just one critical safely feature while others have several. Once you are familiar with some of the most common security characteristics of these packs, you’ll be better able to decide which are necessary to you.<\/p>\n
Let’s take a look at some of these characteristics.<\/p>\n
1. Made from a Slash-Proof Material<\/h3>\n
Usually incorporating steel mesh into the fabric that makes up the bag, slash-proof material is designed to prevent a thief from cutting open your bag. Many of the backpacks made by manufacturers like Travelon and Pacsafe are made with slash-proof material.<\/p>\n
If slash-proof material sounds intriguing to you, then consider taking it one step further. Some models even have slash-proof straps so that your backpack can’t be cut from your shoulders or from around the leg of a table or chair.<\/p>\n
2. Locking Zippers<\/h3>\n
Most backpacks have a lockable zipper on the main compartment, but those that have lockable zippers on every compartment are the ones that will really protect your valuables.<\/p>\n
If you are looking for a backpack with lockable zippers, then keep in mind that some backpacks will require you to purchase separate padlocks, or the manufacturer may recommended that you use only TSA-approved locks.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, some of these backpacks have unique, built-in locking systems.<\/p>\n
Lockable zippers offer you protection when you are out sightseeing and want to enjoy yourself. A thief who has unlimited access to your bag and plenty of time may be able to circumvent the locks, but this security system does what it’s supposed to by preventing crimes of opportunity.<\/p>\n
3. Concealed Zippers<\/h3>\n
Some backpack manufacturers have found absolutely ingenious ways to hide zippers. This makes it really hard for a thief to quickly come up behind you and access the contents of your bag. Usually, a backpack with this feature has zippers on the side of the bag that rests against your back when you are wearing it.<\/p>\n
If you’re on a tight budget and are looking for a theft-proof backpack, choosing a model with this safety feature may be the best way to go.<\/p>\n
4. Secret Compartments<\/h3>\n
Here’s a security feature that will have you feeling like James Bond. It’s also one of the more common anti-theft features on backpacks.<\/p>\n
A hidden pocket may be placed on the side of the pack that rests against your back to make it more difficult to access. Secret compartments sometimes also are found inside the bag. These are great places to tuck your cell phone, credit cards, passport and other valuables.<\/p>\n
5. RFID Protection<\/h3>\n
This is an increasingly popular anti-theft feature that involves a simple RFID-blocking card. Basically, these backpacks have an internal pocket that is lined with an RFID-blocking fabric. Anything placed in this pocket is protected against radio waves that can skim your passport and credit card data.<\/p>\n
6. Locking Cables<\/h3>\n
When you’re traveling, you won’t necessarily want to have your backpack strapped to your back at all times. A model that has a built-in locking cable gives you improved peace of mind by making it easy to lock your bag to a post, chair, table or any other convenient item.<\/p>\n
This feature makes it virtually impossible for anyone to casually stroll by and snag your backpack.<\/p>\n