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Anti-theft hip pack

Posted by (Ottawa, Canada) on

I know that Rick Steves recommends that people not use hip packs since pickpockets assume that’s were you stash your valuables. I agree considering the flimsy plastic buckle system most use. But I came across a product called the Stashsafe 100 & 200.

http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&_action=detail&id=19

Like Rick recommends, I plan on using a money belt for deep storage, passport etc... But for storing your day spending money, digital camera, the hip pack seems like the ultimate compact storage center. After reading up on the anti-theft features that this particular hip pack has, I can't help but to think that I should be able to wear it without worrying about pickpockets.

Has anybody used this product before? Any experiences with hip packs while traveling?

Posted by
1003 posts

I got a pacsafe neck pouch and camera strap and they seem quite well-made and all...i like the metal wiring embedded in them...
But... really.... even if the stashsafe is "safe"... do you really want to scream I'M A TOURIST! quite that loudly? Well, if you're ok with it, then yes it does seem that the pacsafe products are very well-designed and secure. but of course, it's still an open pouch and if you can get into it easily, the pickpockets will still find a way. Personally, and I know it's harder for guys because you can't as easily carry a "purse" or a "bag" over the shoulder, I might go with their wired camera strap for your camera, and maybe their wallet with a chain for your day spending money? But only you can decide what you would be comfortable in! :)

Posted by
85 posts

I was looking at getting one of the pacsafe purses for the same reason. Anyone use one of the purses or totes?

Posted by
769 posts

Id agree with the other posters - skip the fanny/hip pack - but get the good under garment items. Some succested a neck-pouch with wire can be a bit dangerous around your neck - a reagular cloth one hidden under your clothes should suffice. I have the camera strap and the chain-wallet myself!

Posted by
1 posts

I purchased the Metrosafe 200. We just returned from two weeks in Italy and the bag was wonderful. At one time I had a camera, two bottles of water, Rick Steve's Italy book, plus extras. I felt totally safe at all times with the bag. When walking around Rome one day I got tired of carrying it and used it as a fanny pack. I highly recommend this bag.

Lea Ann

Posted by
206 posts

How about a messenger bag? IMHO, they do not look as "touristy" as a hip pack.

Posted by
1568 posts

Steve I would go for the 200. It seems a little larger than the 100.
I ordered a Stashsafe (10" x 7") and received it in the mail yesterday. It seems smaller than the 100 as it would only hold my Sony movie cam. Got it on clearance from REI for $17.xx so was worth it. I am very pleased with mine....no cords hanging...even the zipper pulls lock into the wired belt.

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