Pacsafe was founded in Hong Kong in 1998 by two Australian travelers and entrepreneurs, Rob Schlipper and Magnus McGlashan. The idea for Pacsafe originated during their travels through South America and Morocco, where they observed travelers protecting their backpacks with wire mesh or sleeping on top of their luggage to deter theft. Recognizing the need for a more elegant solution, they developed the Pacsafe Protector, a stainless-steel wire mesh that wrapped around backpacks and could be locked to fixed objects. This became the company’s first commercial product. [1]

As travel habits evolved, Pacsafe expanded beyond security nets into complete travel gear, including:

• Anti-theft backpacks

• Crossbody bags

• Sling bags

• Messenger bags

• Women’s handbags

• Laptop backpacks

• Carry-on luggage

• Travel wallets

• Portable travel safes

• RFID-blocking accessories

Over the years, the company shifted from serving mainly backpackers to designing products suitable for everyday urban life while maintaining its focus on travel security. [2]

Pacsafe operates under Outpac Designs Limited, headquartered in Hong Kong, with international operations supporting customers across North America, Europe, Asia, and other global markets. The company distributes its products through:

• Official online stores

• Travel retailers

• Outdoor equipment stores

• Department stores

• Authorized distributors in numerous countries

Its logo features a turtle whose shell resembles both a padlock and wire mesh, symbolizing protection and durability. [1]

Pacsafe’s core philosophy is that people enjoy travel more when they feel secure. Rather than emphasizing fear of theft, the company promotes the idea that effective security enables travelers to focus on discovering new places with greater peace of mind. According to the brand, anti-theft technology should be integrated seamlessly into attractive, functional products rather than appearing overtly tactical. [2]

Pacsafe is widely regarded as an innovator in travel security and has developed several proprietary technologies.

eXomesh® Slashguard

A stainless-steel wire mesh embedded inside bag panels to help resist slash-and-grab theft.

Carrysafe® Slashguard Straps

Flexible stainless-steel cables integrated into shoulder straps to reduce the risk of straps being cut.

Roobar® Locking System

A locking mechanism that secures zipper pulls together and, in some models, allows the bag to be attached to fixed objects.

Secure Zip Tabs

Specially designed zipper systems that make unauthorized opening more difficult.

RFID Blocking

Wallets and passport holders include materials intended to reduce unauthorized reading of RFID-enabled cards and passports.

PopNLock Security Clip

A locking clip that allows users to secure their bag to tables, chairs, or other fixed structures.

TurnNLock Security Hook

A hook designed to make it more difficult for shoulder bags to be quickly removed or snatched.

These technologies are often combined within a single product depending on the collection. [2]

Pacsafe offers products across several categories:

• Travel backpacks

• Everyday backpacks

• Laptop backpacks

• Sling bags

• Crossbody bags

• Messenger bags

• Women’s handbags

• Duffel bags

• Carry-on luggage

• Travel organizers

• RFID wallets

• Passport holders

• Portable travel safes

• Luggage locks

• Security cables

• Travel accessories

Most products emphasize durability, organization, and integrated security rather than removable accessories. [2]

In recent years, Pacsafe has increased its focus on sustainability by:

• Using recycled polyester fabrics in many products.

• Incorporating recycled PET bottles into manufacturing.

• Reducing virgin plastic usage.

• Offering long-lasting designs intended to reduce waste.

• Supporting conservation initiatives through the Pacsafe Turtle Fund.

The company positions product longevity as an important aspect of environmental responsibility. [3]

Pacsafe has partnered with several brands to develop limited-edition collections that combine anti-theft functionality with each partner’s design identity. Examples include collaborations with:

• Quiksilver

• Aigle

These collaborations typically feature recycled materials alongside Pacsafe’s security technologies. [2]

Pacsafe has established a strong reputation among:

• International travelers

• Backpackers

• Digital nomads

• Frequent flyers

• Urban commuters

• Photographers

• Business travelers

The brand is often recommended for destinations where pickpocketing or bag theft is a concern. While its products generally command higher prices than standard backpacks, they are recognized for combining security features with quality construction. Community discussions frequently cite their durability and integrated anti-theft design as key strengths, while noting the premium price. [4]

Pacsafe offers an international warranty against manufacturing defects:

• 5 years for most bags

• 2 years for many accessories

Coverage applies to eligible products purchased through authorized retailers and is subject to the company’s warranty terms. [2]

Since its founding in 1998, Pacsafe has become one of the most recognizable names in anti-theft travel gear. Its innovations—including slash-resistant materials, locking zipper systems, RFID protection, and integrated bag security—have influenced the broader travel accessories industry and helped establish anti-theft design as a standard feature in premium travel bags. [2]

1. Pacsafe

2. From Wire Nets To Anti-Theft Backpacks – 20 Years of Safe Travels – Pacsafe – Official North America Store

3. Pacsafe’s 20th Year In Review – Pacsafe – Official APAC Store

4. Bag na iwas tanim-bala modus