After traveling through Europe with my Venturesafe 150 GII (new version
VIBE) and an old Oakley backpack. I decided to combine the two and pick up a Pacsafe backpack. Pick pocketing is a prevalent crime in large cities and I wanted a more secure backpack for an upcoming trip to Manila and Japan. This backpack looks good and doesn't scream "anti-theft".
The appeal of any Pacsafe bag is their anti-theft features and this bag has a lot of them. The bag has four outside pockets with two side pockets to hold other items like water bottles.
Zippers
This bag comes with two types of zippers designed to prevent theft, the zip clip and the secured zip tab. Both zipper types make it harder to pickpocket which is a plus when you're on a crowded area. The zip tabs are easy to use but the zip clip is a bit harder. Trying to get both zippers to clip is a bit difficult and takes a minute. It's a great system that could be improved upon in the next version of this bag. The main compartment zipper has holes for a travel lock as well for extra security.
Slash Guard and Straps
Another anti-theft feature is the eXomesh slash guard. The slash guard is a metal net that is between bag fabrics. The net doesn't cover the whole bag, just the bottom half of the bag. This stops thieves from cutting your bag open and running off with what's inside. The bag straps also have metal wires which prevent cut and run theft. The strap also comes with a turn and lock security hook which can be attached to a fixture. This helps prevent snatch and grabs.
RFID
The bag comes with an RFIDsafe pocket for credit cards and passports. This pocket prevents RFID skimming. Most passports have RFID chips as well as some credit cards. My cards do not have an RFID chip so my passport was the only one that needed to be safe.
Rain Cover
This is very convenient and would have come in handy in recent trips. My camera bags have rain covers but I haven't seen many regular back packs with them. I had to use this once while in the Philippines and it was easy to pull out and cover my bag.
Bag Support
This bag comes with an aluminum support which helps with load transport as well as a hip belt. The hip belt can be stowed away when not in use. Their is also an adjustable sternum strap. If you load up your bag with some heavy stuff this support can take the load from your shoulders and transfer to your hip, making long walks not too bad.
Other Features
Like most bags on the market, this one comes with a organizer pocket, a laptop sleeve and side pockets for drink bottles. The laptop sleeve also doubles as a hydration pouch. Side compression straps are also available for when your pack is not full and you need to slim your bag a bit. The bag will work with the
Travelsafe X15 Anti-Theft Portable Safe
if you want another level of securtiy.
Final Impressions
I love this bag. It's a bit pricey with a MSRP around $170 but the peace of mind is worth it. Nothing beats being aware of your surroundings but this bag surely helps. The durability is great as well. I've used it on two trips and it's holding up very well and looks brand new. I had a minor complaint when it came to the zippers but it's not a huge issue. It's also comfortable for long trips with a full pack. If the X30 is too big, they make a smaller model
Venturesafe X22
(22 L). Overall, I would recommend this bag for people who want extra security when they travel.
Lift Heavy and Level Up!
if you want another level of securtiy.
(22 L). Overall, I would recommend this bag for people who want extra security when they travel.
