There's always some risk of having your travel pack slashed, whether at home or while traveling. But do you need a security system for your pack?
I chose to address this question in a blog post rather than an article because Suite requires that writers keep articles objective and I just can’t be objective on the PacSafe issue. The PacSafe Security Web is like a little flexible chain-link fence for your backpack, designed to prevent thieves from slashing the material and helping themselves to your possessions. Oh, dear. I am not at all a fan!
Here’s why I don’t like PacSafes. Their bizarre appearance draws attention to your pack and thus to you when you’re wearing your pack and sends out two simultaneous messages.
- My bag is full of valuables.
- I think you are all bunch of thieves.
Number 1 is not what you want to advertise when you’re surrounded by thieves. Number 2 is not what you want to advertise when you are not surrounded by thieves.
Sometimes you simply must carry valuable items. I traveled through Mexico, Central, and South America by bus with a laptop. My travel partner carried several expensive cameras and lenses. But there are better ways of keeping your belongings safe than a PacSafe – number one being simply keeping your eyes and hands on your backpack in public.
The PacSafe company makes several bags with the wire mesh hidden away inside the bag, which is another story entirely. This gets you that extra protection against bag slashing without advertising that you need it. PacSafe also makes reinforced waist belts and money pouches, and small, discreet locks, which can be very useful. But the Security Web? I recommend avoiding this.
See this article on keeping your valuables safe on the bus in Central America (or anywhere else).
