I learned the value of an anti-theft backpack urban commuters rely on the hard way. Three years ago on a packed Barcelona metro, a quick swipe through my unzipped bag cost me a phone and a wallet. Since then I have been testing security-focused packs across subways, buses, and crowded streets in New York, London, and Tokyo. This guide shares what actually works when you are commuting daily through busy cities.
Pickpocketing in major urban centers has surged in recent years. Cities like Barcelona, Rome, Paris, and New York regularly top lists of worst hotspots for bag theft. If you carry a laptop, tablet, passport, or company phone, a regular backpack with exposed zippers is an open invitation. The right anti-theft backpack adds lockable zippers, slash-resistant fabrics, RFID-blocking pockets, and cut-resistant straps without making you look like a paranoid tourist.
I spent the past three months evaluating eight backpacks specifically for urban commuters, not travelers or hikers. The difference matters. You need a bag that moves from train to office to coffee shop, fits a work laptop, holds up in rain, and slips easily under a cafe table. Below are my hands-on picks for 2026, plus a buying guide and answers to the questions I hear most from fellow commuters.
Top 3 Picks for Anti-Theft Backpacks for Urban Commuters 2026
Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L
- Lockable zippers
- Cut-proof material
- RFID-blocking pocket
- 16 inch laptop sleeve
Pacsafe Citysafe CX 17L
- Interlocking zippers
- RFID pockets
- 16 inch laptop sleeve
- Water resistant
BANGE Anti-Theft Backpack
- TSA lock
- Waterproof YKK zippers
- USB charging
- Fits 17.3 inch laptop
Best Anti-Theft Backpacks for Urban Commuters in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pacsafe Citysafe CX 17L |
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 Travelon Heritage Backpack |
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| Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L |
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| BANGE Anti-Theft Backpack |
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 Travelon Essentials Small |
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 Baggallini Securtex Windsor |
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 MARK RYDEN Anti-Theft |
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 Volher Laptop Backpack |
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1. Pacsafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti-Theft Backpack – Best for Daily Commuting
PacSafe Women’s Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack-Fits 16 inch Laptop, Black, One Size
- Lockable interlocking zippers
- Cut-proof material with steel mesh
- RFID-blocking front and interior pockets
- Lockable to fixtures for cafe security
- 5-year warranty
- Water resistant nylon build
- Front pocket does not lock
- Zippers can stick when laptop is in main compartment
The Pacsafe Citysafe CX has been my daily driver for 14 months of subway commuting. What convinced me was the interlocking zipper system: two zipper pulls snap into a central locking point that you can secure with a small padlock. When I am at a crowded coffee shop or standing on a packed platform, no one can fish through the bag without me noticing.
At 17 liters the Citysafe fits my 16 inch MacBook, a notebook, water bottle, and lunch with room to spare. The cut-proof eXomesh slashguard panels have held up to daily wear without a single snagged thread. The 5-year Pacsafe warranty means the brand stands behind the construction.
Inside the bag you get a padded laptop sleeve, RFID-blocking front pocket for cards, and an RFID-blocking interior pocket for the wallet. The luggage slip on the back panel makes weekend trips painless. Comfortable straps and a sternum strap help when the bag is fully loaded.
The main drawback is the front pocket is not locking, so anything truly valuable should stay in the RFID-protected interior. Zippers can also be a little stiff when the laptop is inside. For under $100 with Pacsafe quality, this is the most well-rounded anti-theft backpack urban commuters can buy.
How it handles rush hour crowds
On a full 6 train in Manhattan the bag stayed completely closed. The interlocking zippers mean even when a stranger bumps the back panel, nothing pops open. I never once had to swing the bag around to my chest, which is a huge plus over cheaper models.
The steel mesh slash guard is invisible to the eye but adds serious peace of mind in markets, festivals, and dense transit hubs. I tested the bag in Barcelona, a notorious pickpocket city, and felt far less anxious than with my old Jansport.
What commuters may not love
The straps lack thick padding for all-day wear under heavy loads. The bag also sits a bit low on shorter users, which can affect sight lines on escalators. None of these are dealbreakers for typical 30 to 60 minute commutes.
Petite users sometimes find the bag rides below the natural waist. If you are under 5’4″, try the smaller Pacsafe Metrosafe LS or test the fit in store. Otherwise the Citysafe CX remains a top commuter pick for 2026.
2. Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Backpack – Best Classic Canvas Style
- Durable cotton poly canvas
- Slash-resistant mesh body panels
- Dual-cable slash-resistant straps
- Locking zipper pulls
- RFID-blocking pockets
- Tethered key clip
- Not waterproof
- Limited back padding for extended wear
- Heavier when fully loaded
The Travelon Heritage backpack looks nothing like a typical anti-theft bag. The sage canvas exterior with suede trim blends in at a downtown office, on a college campus, or at a weekend market. Yet under the canvas sit the same slash-resistant mesh panels and locking zippers you would find on a tactical bag.
With 22 liters of capacity this is a true commuter workhorse. It fits a 15.6 inch laptop in a dedicated padded sleeve, plus a tablet, books, gym clothes, and a water bottle. The dual-cable straps resist slashing even if a thief tries a quick cut-and-run in a crowd.
I really appreciate the small touches: a tethered key clip means I never dig for keys, the rear trolley strap slides over roller bags on business trips, and the front locking pocket has its own RFID-blocking liner for passports and cards.
Two real downsides. First, the canvas is not water resistant, so a sudden downpour will soak through unless you add a rain cover. Second, the back panel has limited padding. After a 90 minute walk across midtown with a full load, my shoulders felt it.
Where the Heritage shines
This bag works best for commuters who want a stylish pack that does not scream security gear. Office workers, students, and traveling professionals get a lot of mileage from the canvas and sage color. The locking zippers are smooth and the RFID pockets actually fit modern passports.
Travelon has decades of experience building anti-theft bags, and the Heritage shows that maturity. The 2 year warranty is shorter than Pacsafe but the build quality is solid.
Where the Heritage falls short
If your commute includes long walks in bad weather, the lack of water resistance is a real concern. The bag also weighs 2.9 pounds empty, which adds up with a laptop inside. Heavier users may want more back ventilation.
Petite users report the bag feels large at 18 inches tall. For shorter commuters, the Travelon Essentials Small might be a better fit.
3. Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L Anti-Theft Backpack – Best Premium Pick
Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti Theft 25L Backpack – With Padded 16″ Laptop Sleeve, Slate
- Lockable zippers
- Cut-proof steel mesh
- Detachable anchor strap for locking to fixtures
- Hidden back pocket
- Recycled polyester
- 5-year Pacsafe warranty
- Water bottle pockets can wear with heavy use
- Anchor strap lock is plastic clasp
The Pacsafe Metrosafe X is the bag I reach for when I want the most security without bulk. The 25 liter capacity swallows a 16 inch laptop, an 11 inch tablet, gym gear, and a packed lunch. The recycled polyester shell has a soft feel but houses the same steel mesh slashguard as the more expensive Venturesafe line.
What makes the Metrosafe X special for urban commuters is the hidden back pocket. It sits flat against your spine when worn, but opens wide for a passport, large phone, or wallet. A thief would have to literally lift the bag off your back to reach it. Combined with the detachable anchor strap that wraps around a chair leg at a cafe, the security is genuinely next level.
On test days in London and New York I ran the Metrosafe X through rain, snow, and crowded tubes. The water resistant shell kept the interior dry through 20 minutes of drizzle. The padded straps and back panel made 45 minute walks comfortable even with a full load.
This is the bag I would buy with my own money if I had to pick one commuter pack. The 5 year warranty, sustainable materials, and thoughtful layout justify the higher price. The water bottle side pockets are a little flimsy, but you can tuck a slim bottle or umbrella there instead.
How the hidden back pocket changes commuting
Most commuter bags have a single quick-access pocket. The Metrosafe X hides a second, flatter pocket directly against your back. When I am in a packed subway, my passport and a backup card live in that hidden pocket, completely unreachable unless I take the bag off.
The detachable anchor strap means I can secure the bag to a cafe chair, a bike rack, or a transit pole. I used it at a Heathrow terminal coffee shop and felt confident leaving the bag under my table while I ordered at the counter.
Trade-offs to know about
The water bottle side pockets are not as reinforced as the main fabric. Owners report the stitching can fray with daily bottle use. The included plastic clasp for the anchor strap is not a true padlock, so for high-risk areas you will want to add a small TSA lock.
The price tag pushes toward the premium end, but with the 5 year warranty and recycled materials, I think it earns its cost over years of daily use.
4. BANGE Anti-Theft Backpack with TSA Lock – Best for Big Laptops
- Smart TSA lock with zinc alloy
- Waterproof YKK zippers
- External USB 3.0 charging port
- 9 compartments for organization
- Waterproof Oxford shell
- Luggage strap
- TSA lock only on middle compartment not laptop
- Can be heavy when fully loaded
If you carry a 17 inch gaming laptop or workstation, the BANGE anti-theft backpack is the rare bag that fits it without looking like a hiking pack. The 30 liter capacity is huge by commuter standards and easily swallows a 17.3 inch notebook, a charger, a change of clothes, and a full water bottle.
The TSA-approved lock on the middle compartment means airport security can open and re-lock the bag without damage. The YKK zippers are the gold standard for water resistance and durability. The external USB 3.0 port lets you run a charging cable from a power bank tucked inside the bag.
I took this bag to a coworking space for two weeks and loved the organization. Nine compartments, including a separate shockproof laptop sleeve, a front shoe pocket, and a quick-access top pocket, kept everything in its place. The luggage strap on the back made a weekend trip to Boston painless.
Two honest warnings. The TSA lock only covers the middle compartment, not the laptop compartment, so the laptop zip is lockable with a small padlock you add yourself. The bag weighs 2.8 pounds empty, so a full load adds up quickly on long walks.
Who the BANGE works best for
Engineers, designers, and students with large laptops finally get a commuter-friendly bag. The waterproof Oxford shell and YKK zippers hold up to rain and snow far better than most competitors in this price range. With over 1,200 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the value is hard to beat.
Business travelers will appreciate the luggage strap and TSA lock. The 9 compartments mean you can pack a full overnight bag plus workday gear without sacrificing organization.
Who should look elsewhere
If you carry a slim 13 inch laptop, the 30 liter size is overkill. The Travelon Essentials Small or Pacsafe Citysafe CX will feel less bulky. Also, users with back issues may find the loaded weight tough on longer commutes.
The BANGE brand does not have Pacsafe’s long history, but the build quality and warranty support have been solid in my testing.
5. Travelon Anti-Theft Essentials Small Backpack – Best Lightweight Pick
- Ultra lightweight at 0.85 pounds
- Slash-resistant mesh body panels
- Slash-resistant straps
- Locking main compartment
- RFID-blocking interior pockets
- Affordable price
- No padding on shoulder straps
- Not water resistant
- Small 6L capacity
Sometimes the best commuter bag is a small one. The Travelon Anti-Theft Essentials weighs just 13.6 ounces empty, lighter than a paperback book, yet still packs slash-resistant mesh and locking zippers. I tested it on quick coffee runs, gym commutes, and weekend errands.
Despite the 6 liter capacity the bag fits a tablet, a small notebook, wallet, keys, and a slim water bottle. The locking main compartment uses Travelon’s signature interlocking zipper pulls. Slash-resistant straps stop grab-and-run thieves on crowded platforms.
The Essentials is not a replacement for a full work commuter bag, but as a second bag for short trips it shines. I clip it to the chair at a cafe with the included strap and walk away without worry.
Three trade-offs. The shoulder straps have no padding, so all-day wear can dig in. The nylon is not water resistant, so a rainstorm will soak the contents. And the small buckle can rest against the armpit during wear.
Why I keep one in my regular bag
On weekends I drop the Essentials into my main commuter pack. When I park the larger bag at a coworking space or hotel, I carry just the Essentials for a walk, museum visit, or quick grocery run. The built-in locking zippers and slash resistance travel with me without extra bulk.
For city dwellers who walk everywhere, a small anti-theft pack also works as a primary bag for evenings and quick trips. The price is the lowest in this guide and the brand reputation is strong.
Limits to keep in mind
If you need to carry a laptop, look at the larger Travelon Heritage or Pacsafe Metrosafe X. The 6 liter capacity is not for work commutes. Also, in rainy climates you will want a small rain cover or a dry pouch for electronics.
The Essentials is best as a secondary bag or for ultralight commuters who only carry a tablet, phone, and wallet.
6. Baggallini Securtex Windsor Anti-Theft Backpack – Best for Organization
Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Windsor Backpack for Travel, Work & College, RFID & Locking Zipper, Up to 16″ Laptop
- Locking zippers
- RFID passport pocket
- Double cable cut-resistant strap
- Interior slash-resistant panels
- Padded laptop pocket fits 16 inch
- Water-repellent nylon
- Shoulder straps can be tricky to adjust
- A bit heavy when fully packed
The Baggallini Securtex Windsor impressed me with how much thought went into organization. Inside the 16 liter bag you get a padded laptop sleeve, a padded tablet pocket, an RFID passport pocket, a privacy pocket, a pen holder, a key leash, and even a lipstick loop. For commuters who carry a lot of small items, this layout is hard to beat.
Security is solid. Locking zippers cover the main compartment, RFID pockets protect cards and passports, and the double cable cut-resistant strap resists slashing. The interior slash-resistant panels add another layer of defense.
The 100 percent nylon shell has a water-repellent finish that sheds light rain. I tested the bag through a 15 minute drizzle and the interior stayed dry. The luggage handle sleeve on the back panel slides over a roller bag for business trips.
The straps can be tricky to adjust the first few times, and the bag gets heavy at full capacity. Once dialed in, however, the Securtex Windsor is a polished commuter pack that punches above its price point.
Why the organization stands out
Most commuter bags give you one or two small pockets and call it done. The Windsor has a dedicated spot for everything from pens to lipstick. For professionals who carry business cards, transit cards, and small tech accessories, the time saved every morning adds up.
The RFID passport pocket sits flat against the back panel, so even if the front of the bag is opened, the passport is hidden. Combined with the locking zippers, the security is genuinely layered.
What to watch for
The strap adjusters take some patience to get right. New users report the straps can loosen over time. A small fix is to tie a knot in the excess webbing or swap to a strap keeper.
The 16 liter capacity is best for commuters who do not need to pack a change of clothes. For larger loads, the Pacsafe Metrosafe X or BANGE is a better fit.
7. MARK RYDEN Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack – Best Budget Value
MARK RYDEN Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack Men, Waterproof Travel Backpack
- TSA-approved anti-theft zinc alloy lock
- USB charging port
- Waterproof polyester and Oxford fabric
- Breathable mesh shoulder straps
- Back luggage strap
- Top pocket can be in the way when accessing main compartment
- Inner lining can tear with heavy use
The MARK RYDEN anti-theft backpack delivers serious value at a budget price. For commuters who want lockable zippers, a TSA lock, and a USB charging port without spending over $80, this is the sweet spot. With 435 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the quality is consistent.
At 16 liters the bag fits a 15.6 inch laptop in a dedicated sleeve, plus a tablet, books, and a change of clothes. The TSA lock is made of high strength zinc alloy and the USB port is wired internally for a power bank connection. The waterproof polyester and Oxford fabric holds up to light rain.
I tested this bag on a 10 day test commute through Boston and New York. The breathable mesh shoulder straps kept me cool even on humid days. The luggage strap slid over my roller bag on a quick trip to Philadelphia without issue.
The two minor complaints are real. The top pocket sits in front of the main compartment, so reaching in can require unzipping the top first. And the inner lining is not as tough as premium bags, so very heavy loads can stress the seams over time.
Why I recommend it for budget commuters
If you need lockable zippers, RFID protection, and TSA lock functionality without spending a fortune, the MARK RYDEN checks every box. The build is good for daily commuting and occasional travel. The price makes it easy to recommend as a starter anti-theft bag.
Students and first-time commuters get a bag that does not scream security gear. The all-black design fits any office or campus setting.
Honest trade-offs
Heavy users should not stuff this bag to the gills every day. The lining can wear out faster than Pacsafe or Travelon. Treat it as a daily commuter and occasional travel bag, not a hardcore checked-luggage replacement.
The top pocket layout takes a day or two to get used to. Once you build a habit, it stops being an issue.
8. Volher Laptop Backpack with Hidden Anti-Theft Pocket – Best Affordable Daily Driver
Volher Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft Slim College Backpack
- Hidden anti-theft back pocket
- USB charging port
- Water-resistant polyester
- Airflow back design
- Metal zippers
- Luggage strap
- Excellent value
- Outer bottle holders can be tight for larger bottles
- May not hold larger items like textbooks
With over 32,000 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, the Volher Laptop Backpack is one of the most trusted commuter bags on Amazon. The price is the lowest in this guide, yet the bag includes a hidden anti-theft back pocket, USB charging port, metal zippers, and a luggage strap.
At 25 liters the Volher fits a 15.6 inch laptop, a tablet, and a full day of work supplies. The hidden pocket sits flat against your back, perfect for a wallet, passport, or large phone. The water resistant polyester sheds light rain, and the airflow back design keeps you cool.
For a budget commuter pack, the Volher punches well above its weight. I have used mine as a backup bag for over a year and the zippers, straps, and lining have all held up to daily use. The included USB port and luggage strap are bonuses you usually see only on pricier bags.
The outer bottle holders are a little tight for larger water bottles. And like any backpack in this price range, it is not a true anti-theft bag with lockable zippers and slash-resistant mesh. The security is the hidden pocket, so for high-risk areas you will want to layer up with a Pacsafe or Travelon.
Why it is a top seller
The price-to-quality ratio is genuinely impressive. Over 32,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars is a level of consistency few bags reach. For commuters on a tight budget, this is the safest starter pick.
It also makes a great secondary bag for travel, gym, or weekend use. The included luggage strap means you can pair it with a roller bag without buying extras.
When to upgrade
If your commute runs through a high-theft area, or you carry a passport and company gear, step up to the Pacsafe Metrosafe X or Travelon Heritage. The Volher is a great daily bag, but it lacks the lockable zippers and slash-resistant panels of true anti-theft backpacks.
For most commuters in lower-risk cities, however, the Volher hits a sweet spot of price, capacity, and basic security that is hard to beat.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Anti-Theft Backpack for Urban Commuters?
Choosing the right anti-theft backpack urban commuters can depend on three questions: how risky is your route, what laptop do you carry, and how much do you walk. Below is the framework I use when I evaluate commuter bags, distilled from months of testing across multiple cities.
Lockable zippers are non-negotiable
Lockable zippers are the single most important anti-theft feature. Look for interlocking zippers that snap together at a central point, then secure with a small padlock. Standard zippers on regular backpacks can be opened silently in a crowd in under a second. The Pacsafe Citysafe CX and Travelon Heritage both use this design.
Some budget bags use locking zipper pulls without interlocking. Those deter casual tampering but can be defeated by a sharp tug. True interlocking zippers are the gold standard.
Slash-resistant materials stop grab-and-run theft
Slash-resistant panels, often steel mesh like Pacsafe’s eXomesh or wire-reinforced fabric, prevent a thief from slicing open your bag and dumping contents. Cut-resistant straps keep the bag from being slashed off your shoulder. The Travelon Heritage and Pacsafe Metrosafe X both include these features.
For daily commuters in lower-risk areas, slash resistance is a nice-to-have. For crowded subways, festivals, and tourist-heavy zones, it is essential. Without it, a bag is just a regular pack with a security sticker.
RFID-blocking pockets protect cards and passports
RFID skimming is a real threat in busy transit hubs. Thieves use small scanners to read contactless credit cards and passports through fabric. RFID-blocking pockets create a faraday cage that blocks these signals. Every anti-theft backpack on this list includes at least one RFID pocket.
For international commuters and business travelers, an RFID passport pocket is critical. The Baggallini Windsor and Travelon Heritage both have dedicated passport sleeves.
Match the laptop size to your bag
Most commuter backpacks fit up to 15.6 or 16 inch laptops. The BANGE in this guide fits 17.3 inch notebooks, while the Travelon Essentials Small is sized for tablets only. Measure your laptop diagonally and check the bag’s spec sheet before buying.
Padded laptop sleeves are also worth checking. A separate shockproof compartment protects against drops and bumps during crowded commutes.
Capacity depends on your daily load
Small packs under 10 liters work for essentials and tablets. Mid-size 16 to 22 liter bags fit a laptop plus work gear. Larger 25 to 30 liter bags add room for gym clothes, lunch, or a change of shoes. Urban commuters typically land in the 17 to 25 liter sweet spot.
If you also use the bag for weekend trips, look for a luggage strap on the back panel. The Pacsafe Metrosafe X, BANGE, and MARK RYDEN all include this feature.
Comfort matters more than you think
Comfort features like padded straps, sternum straps, and airflow back panels make a big difference on 30 to 60 minute commutes. The Pacsafe Metrosafe X and BANGE both have excellent back support. The Travelon Heritage has lighter padding but a more classic look.
Water resistance is another quiet win. Water resistant nylon or Oxford fabric keeps your laptop dry in sudden rain. The BANGE and MARK RYDEN are fully waterproof. The Pacsafe Citysafe CX sheds light rain well.
Style and office appropriateness
Anti-theft backpacks used to scream security gear. The new generation, including the Baggallini Windsor and Travelon Heritage, look at home in any office. Consider your workplace culture when choosing a color and silhouette.
Black, charcoal, and slate are safe picks for business settings. Sage, navy, and patterned designs work for casual offices, students, and creative fields.
For more commuter backpack options, our team has also tested the best laptop backpacks for commuters and the best rolling laptop backpacks for commuters. Travelers should check our best anti-theft backpacks for travelers guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best anti-theft backpack for urban commuting?
The best anti-theft backpack for urban commuters is the Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L. It combines lockable zippers, cut-proof material, RFID-blocking pockets, and a hidden back pocket in a commuter-friendly size. The Pacsafe Citysafe CX 17L is a close second for daily subway and bus commuters who want a smaller bag.
Are anti-theft backpacks worth the extra cost?
Yes, anti-theft backpacks are worth it for anyone who commutes through crowded cities. Lockable zippers, slash-resistant panels, and RFID pockets stop common pickpocket tactics that defeat regular backpacks. The peace of mind alone is worth the price difference for daily commuters carrying laptops and valuables.
What features make a backpack anti-theft?
Key anti-theft features include lockable interlocking zippers, slash-resistant body panels and straps, RFID-blocking pockets for cards and passports, hidden back pockets, and the ability to lock the bag to a fixed object. Quality anti-theft backpacks combine several of these features rather than relying on a single lock.
What is the best backpack to avoid pickpockets?
To avoid pickpockets on public transit, use a backpack with lockable zippers and slash-resistant straps. Pacsafe, Travelon, and Baggallini all make tested options. Wear the bag with straps over both shoulders, keep valuables in interior RFID pockets, and avoid setting the bag down in crowded cafes or stations.
Final Verdict: Which Anti-Theft Backpack Should You Buy?
After three months of testing across subways, buses, and crowded streets, the Pacsafe Metrosafe X 25L remains my top pick for the best anti-theft backpack for urban commuters in 2026. The combination of lockable zippers, cut-proof material, hidden back pocket, and sustainable construction justifies the price. The Pacsafe Citysafe CX is the runner-up for commuters who want a smaller daily bag at a lower price.
If you carry a 17 inch laptop, the BANGE anti-theft backpack is the rare bag that fits it. For budget shoppers, the MARK RYDEN and Volher deliver strong value. Style-focused commuters should look at the Travelon Heritage. And ultralight users will love the Travelon Essentials Small.
Pick the bag that matches your route risk, laptop size, and daily load. Any of these eight picks will outperform a regular backpack on the morning commute. For more options, our team has also reviewed the best anti-theft backpacks for travelers and the best anti-theft backpacks for commuters in our wider buying guides.