I have been searching for the perfect backpack for my travels and stumbled across the Pacsafe Slingsafe LX300 Anti-Theft Backpack while I was shopping at Traveler's Depot (San Diego's best mom-and-pop travel store). I was initially browsing around Traveler's Depot for a guidebook to Costa Rica, but ended up walking out of the store with a new smart travel backpack. So what drew me to this backpack? Here are my top five reasons for purchasing this backpack.

SmartBackPack+++www.thetravelpockets.jpeg

SmartBackPack+++www.thetravelpockets.com

1. Lockable Zip Sliders

The one thing that worries me about carrying a backpack is the fact that I can't see what is going on behind me. I have had an unfortunate incident about five years ago and had my iPhone pickpocketed. Ever since then I have been so paranoid about carrying anything on my back. This backpack has lockable zippers that make it pretty much next to impossible for pickpocketers to get into.

2. RFID Safe

So you may be wondering what the heck does RFID stand for. Don't worry I had no idea and had to google it myself. It stands for Radio Frequency Identification. Apparently, RFID readers can easily be bought online by absolutely anyone (and they aren't expensive). Thieves use this hand-held reader to steal information that is stored on anything that has a microchip, like your credit cards and passports. Thanks to this RFID safe pocket inside the backpack, the unique material blocks transmissions and stops RFID readers from stealing your personal information.

3. Outsmarts Bag Snatchers

The shoulder strap has a releasable security hook at one end that allows you to attach the strap to a table, chair, or anything else you may want to attach it to. This stops thieves from easily walking away with your bag.

4. eXomesh Slashguards

Ok, so I haven't heard of anyone ever getting their bags slashed, but it's nice to have a bag that is capable of handling this type of situation, right? The fabric of this backpack has a built-in stainless wire with mesh panels which prevents contents from falling out of the bag if it were cut by a thief.

5. Padded Laptop Sleeve

This bag had major bonus points when I saw that it also had a separate padded sleeve for my 15" MacBook. I used to carry my laptop in a separate padded case, but now I can eliminate that extra case and just toss it in my new backpack.