Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags For Solo Travelers in Mexico: 6 Styles You’ll Love

Post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure & Privacy policies for more details.

---

Tracking down the perfect purse, specifically the best anti theft travel bag, can be quite a challenge. Fortunately, most of us find solace in having a selection of options on hand. With the best anti theft travel bag, your belongings will stay secure, and you can travel with peace of mind.

Sadly, this workaround isn’t as effective when traveling, especially if you prefer to travel light. If you’re a committed carry-on traveler like me, you’ll likely need to pick one versatile purse to get through your trip.

When choosing your best anti theft travel bag, consider the features that matter most to you, such as size, material, and style. It’s essential to have the best anti theft travel bag that not only fits your style but also ensures safety for your belongings.

How might you go about finding the ideal travel purse for your trip to Mexico?

After years of living and traveling in Mexico, I think I’ve finally determined the perfect combination of features to look for in a travel purse.

I’ve discovered that the best anti theft travel bag for my travels has specific characteristics that help keep my items secure while I explore. Choosing the right best anti theft travel bag is crucial for any journey, especially if you wish to travel effortlessly and securely.

Recently, my beloved purse passed away. That unfortunate event prompted me to finally upgrade to an anti-theft purse. I’ve been wanting to make the switch for a while, but I couldn’t justify purchasing a new handbag when my existing one was still fully functional.

I investigated a ton of different options before settling on the perfect anti theft travel bag, and I figured I might as well share my research with you in case you’re considering purchasing one for yourself!

Is Mexico Safe? Tips for Solo Female Travel in Mexico

Below, I’ll share my TOP pick for the best anti theft travel bag as well as several other excellent options. Remember, everyone has different preferences!

HOW IS AN ANTI-THEFT BAG DIFFERENT FROM A REGULAR PURSE?

Safety features found in the best anti theft travel bags are a big reason why travelers trust them.

If you’re traveling solo through Mexico I highly recommend investing in the best anti theft travel bag you can find with great reviews. Anti-theft bags are equipped with a few unique features that set them apart from your standard purse.

Depending on your needs, you may wish to invest in an anti-theft purse for your travels (in other words, I wouldn’t go with an inexpensive anti-theft travel bag, especially if it has average or below average reviews).

Personally, I prefer the additional safety and protections an anti-theft bag offers, though, I traveled without one for years.

Key features of anti-theft purses:

The best anti theft travel bag can vary based on individual needs, but there are key features that everyone should consider. Ultimately, the best anti theft travel bag enhances your travel experience and provides peace of mind in unfamiliar areas.

To find the best anti theft travel bag, look for options that combine style with practicality.

• RFID protection: Are you aware that thieves can steal your passport and credit card information using Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFIDs)? You should be! The scariest part of the situation is that thieves can do this using small, hand-held readers without even coming into contact with you. This implies that you won’t become aware of the incident until it has already occurred.
  
  These devices even work through materials like leather, so there’s a decent chance your current purse is leaving you vulnerable. Fortunately, modern travel bags often incorporate RFID-protected compartments to safeguard your information.
  
• Slash-proof material: Some thieves aren’t skilled pickpockets and instead opt for a technique that involves cutting the strap or side of your purse to free it from your arm and running off with it. Unfortunately for these lazy criminals, many travel purses are now equipped with slash-proof material.
  
  Basically, the result is a thin layer of chainmail that protects your bag from cuts. Don’t worry, it’s not nearly as heavy as what a knight might wear.
  
• Locking zippers: Designed to deter pickpockets, these zippers include a little clip closure, so they can’t be subtly opened when you’re not paying attention. This is especially desirable for backpacks.

Are you starting to see how an anti-theft purse might have an edge over your go-to handbag? Having the best anti theft travel bag allows for comfortable travel without compromising on security. The best anti theft travel bag often features RFID protection to keep your personal information safe. Make sure the best anti theft travel bag you choose meets all your travel needs.

Characteristics of my ideal travel purse:

Predictably, not just any travel purse will do. It’s important to find something that works with your travel style and your personal style.

• Having slash-proof material in the best anti theft travel bag is crucial for added peace of mind.

• Locking zippers on the best anti theft travel bag provide an extra layer of security against theft.

• With the right best anti theft travel bag, you’ll feel secure in your travels no matter where you go.

• Choosing a nondescript design for the best anti theft travel bag can help avoid unwanted attention while traveling.

Naturally, these requirements will be different for everyone, but hey, this is my blog, so my ideal travel purse fits the following description:

• Large enough to hold all the essentials for a day of exploring
• Comfortable enough to wear for long periods
• Nondescript design that doesn’t attract extra attention
• Versatile style that goes with (almost) any outfit
• RFID protection (because one Janine is enough)
• Slash-proof material
• Locking zipper closure to protect against pickpockets

TRAVELON ANTI-THEFT CLASSIC SHOULDER BAG

This petite bag has a neutral design that makes it easy to dress up or down. It measures 8.5” wide x 8.5” tall x 2” diameter. For those of you to whom that means nothing, a sheet of paper is 8.5” wide so you can use that as a visual reference.

One of many handy features of this anti-theft bag is that the shoulder strap of this purse attaches with a carabiner. With this, you can easily loop the strap around the arm of your chair while eating. Then, if thieves try to run off with it they’ll have to take your whole chair with them!

The Classic Shoulder Bag also features a locking zipper, but only for the main compartment.

• The neutral design means it will go with almost any outfit, especially if you choose the black option. This purse could transition from day to night
• Slash-resistant body
• RFID card slots
• Locking zipper

TRAVELON ANTI-THEFT MESSENGER BAG

The Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag makes a handy carry-all for days out exploring. It measures 9.75” wide x 10” tall x 2.5” in diameter, though reviewers state that the opening is smaller than the maximum width. It’s large enough to fit a bottle of water, which is always convenient, especially when traveling.

The wider shoulder strap indicates that it should be comfortable to wear, even when carrying heavier items.

Pros:

• Neutral design
• Slash-resistant body
• RFID card slots
• Locking zipper

Cons:

• The narrow(er) opening may make it too small to fit an iPad or tablet inside. If you have one of these devices, check the measurements before purchasing.
• The style is neutral but falls on the casual side. This might not be a good option if you’re looking for something that goes from day to night.

TRAVELON ANTI-THEFT HOBO BAG

The Travelon Anti-theft Hobo Bag is large enough to fit all the essentials for a day of exploring, including a water bottle or a DSLR camera and a (small) lens. It features two slash-proof shoulder straps so you can wear it as a crossbody or a shoulder bag. Both straps are wide enough to be comfortable, even when carrying heavy objects.

The casual style of this bag means it might not be a great option for dressier outfits. Still, I appreciate that it doesn’t look particularly expensive. The bag comes in four different colors, and the dark blue option dresses up a bit better than the others.

I love that both the main pocket and the outside pockets have locking zippers. Exterior pockets are often overlooked when it comes to this feature.

Pros:

• Slash-resistant body
• RFID card slots
• Locking zipper on both the main compartment and side pocket
• Large enough to fit a DSLR camera and lens or a water bottle

Cons:

• The design might be too casual for some people

MUNDI CROSSBODY BAG WITH RFID

Measuring 8.5” wide x 5.5” tall and 1.5” in diameter, this stylish yet simple crossbody makes an excellent option for travelers who like to pack only the bare essentials. It is made from vegan leather that comes in an array of colors, meaning you’re sure to find an option that suits your personal style.

This purse boasts RFID protection, but the anti-theft features pretty much end there. The fabric of the bag is not slash-proof, nor is the shoulder strap. However, the body does offer a zipper closure with a flap covering it, which means pickpockets would have to be pretty savvy to access it without you knowing.

While the Mundi Crossbody may not have as many anti-theft features as some of the others, the design is one of the more stylish on this list. Additionally, the comparatively lower price point makes it an attractive option. In my opinion, this purse is cute and versatile enough to warrant everyday use, even when you’re not traveling.

Pros:

• Comes in a wide variety of different colors
• The simple, classic style will go with just about anything. It can easily be worn both day and night.
• RFID protection
• Zipper closure, which is also protected by a fold-over flap

Cons:

• The shoulder strap is not slash-proof
• The body fabric is not slash-proof
• It might be too small for a general travel purse, but it does have room for the essentials.

PACSAFE WOMEN’S DAYSAFE ANTI-THEFT SLIM CROSSBODY BAG

The Daysafe bag from PacSafe places functionality before fashion, but it is undoubtedly one of the most practical options on this list. This purse measures 11.42” wide x 9.84” high x 0.79” in diameter, putting it on the smaller side compared to some of the others on this list, but multiple reviewers mention that they had no problem fitting all the essentials.

This anti-theft travel bag comes in four colors. It is outfitted with slash-proof material, a slash-proof strap, and RFID blocking to keep your identity safe. The shoulder strap can be unclipped to loop around a chair or table leg for extra security.

My favorite thing about this purse is that the zipper pulls can be secured with Pacsafe’s “turn and lock security hooks.” The screw feature is then concealed under a nylon cover, making it virtually impossible for thieves to get into this purse.

Pros:

• The zipper pulls can be locked with an additional screw closure
• RFID protection
• Slash-proof body & strap
• Neutral design will go with almost anything

Cons:

• Not the most stylish option

PACSAFE WOMEN’S STYLESAFE ANTI-THEFT CROSSBODY BAG

If you liked the sound of the Pacsafe Daysafe bag but would prefer a more stylish option, allow me to introduce you to the Stylesafe Crossbody Bag.

I’m a fan of the flap that conceals the zipper to the main compartment. I think it makes for an attractive design, plus it works to deter thieves. The only thing I don’t love about this purse is that it’s a little on the small side. It is said to have space for a small tablet, such as an iPad mini, but I’m not certain that it would hold a bottle of water.

Pros

• Versatile and attractive design that will go with anything
• RFID protection
• Locking zipper pulls
• Slash-proof body & strap

Cons

• Slightly on the small side compared to other options

THE BEST TRAVEL PURSE EVER FOR MEXICO

In my opinion, the Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Hobo is the best anti-theft travel bag for Mexico… if you’re me. It’s not cumbersome, and it is not flashy.

To be candid, I struggled with this decision. I agonized over this decision the way a country-crossover artist on The Voice agonizes over whether to go with Team Blake or Team Kelly.

I’m excited to share more about my experiences with the best anti theft travel bag in future posts!

Part of me wanted to choose a smaller purse (the Stylesafe Crossbody), but common sense told me that on travel days I’d really appreciate having space for my camera and a water bottle, so the Heritage Hobo won out.

We’re still getting to know one another, but I’ll be posting a full review soon, so stay tuned!

What do you look for in a travel purse? Do you have a go-to bag?

For me, the best anti theft travel bag has become an indispensable part of my travel essentials.

As I share my journey with the best anti theft travel bag, I hope to inspire you to consider your own travel safety.

Your ideal best anti theft travel bag should be both practical and stylish to suit your needs.

11 Big Discounts Are Available for Readers Who Finish This Article! Which Partner Discounts Will You Use?

🏨 What’s the best way to find accommodation in Mexico?

Expedia.com is wonderful specifically for reserving high-end luxury hotels and resorts and is by far the best for reserving flights. Booking.com is awesome for affordable hotels in Mexico. VRBO specializes in apartment and house rentals, making it a wonderful place to find long-term stays.

✈️ What’s the best way to find affordable flights?

In my experience traveling to and within Mexico, I LOVE Expedia.com because they simplify rate comparisons between different airlines. I’ve always come back to Expedia.com because of how wide the selection is of airlines to choose from that go to Mexico. Great pricing is another reason, too!

💸 How should I exchange money in Mexico?

Have you ever heard of the company named WISE? WISE is an app that offers the best solutions for individuals and businesses traveling internationally, providing the fastest and most cost-effective way to convert money into a foreign country’s local currency. It is the least expensive and fastest way to transfer money from your home country’s bank to one in a foreign country.

🚖 How do I find a safe airport transfer?

I recommend GetYourGuide.com for airport transfers anywhere in Mexico. It’s almost as excellent and simple to use as Uber, in my humble opinion. I’ve used them LOTS.

🚗 What’s the best way to find rental cars in Mexico?

I recommend Booking.com. What I’ve found is that their price comparison tool is updated multiple times daily, making it easy to find and prepare to snag the best deal possible because of the inclusion of fire sale types of discounts.

Other companies don’t include these short-lived discounts in their price comparison because they sync once a day (typically overnight) with each rental car company. The Booking.com tool for comparing rental car prices is what I use for car rentals in Mexico. I’ve yet to have complaints about them.

🚐 How do I book bus tickets online in Mexico?

Book your tickets with Busbud—the site is in English and takes foreign credit cards.

🤿 How do I find cool activities and tours in Mexico?

TripAdvisor is the usual website and service I use for finding fun things to do; it has great options and it’s much faster to book with them since they organize their personalized recommendations for you if you’re signed in.

🇲🇽 How can I experience Mexico like a local?

Travelers can hire a local guide through GetyourGuide.com. You’ll be able to tailor tours based on your interests—it’s basically like experiencing a destination with a local bestie!

🧳 What’s the best luggage for Mexico?

Unless you’re staying at a resort, a travel pack is recommended. I’ve used travel backpack from Osprey for the last 8+ years. 

👯‍♀️ How do I connect with fellow travelers in Mexico?

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group, a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!

✈️ Janine, How can I make a website like JanineintheWorld.com?
BigScoots.com is who I use for managing my WordPress website (which they help you make changes to and teach you as part of their service).

Use the coupon code JANINE2025 for a 15% discount on any product or service that they have. They’re really the best-managed WordPress hosts out there. This website is significantly superior to both WPengine and Bluehost.

I absolutely LOVE BigScoots. The support team at BigScoots is always available to help me with the free WordPress site they set up for me and even assisted in setting up my email! It’s the best website hosting provider with the best prices.

I assure you that you’ll love them too! What can I say? We are a company powered by WordPress.

Learning more about WordPress and WordPress plugins that basically do the work for you, especially nowadays with AI at your side.

If I can do it and make a living, then you can too! Purchase the WordPress entry level plan if you want the best WordPress support that has ever existed. It’s like getting a custom Louis Vuitton purse and picking it up at the factory.

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group, a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!