Would a very small crossbody purse attract thieves?

I don't think you need a bag with a cable running through it, but if it makes you feel better, that's okay. I carry a small baggalini crossbody and no one tried to cut it off me or otherwise steal it, either in Europe or the US. Why do you think a thief would be attracted to your crossbody bag more than a daybag? I don't quite follow your logic about a smaller purse being more of a target than a larger purse.

Here are two threads, among many, that you may care to read:

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/to-the-west/slashproof-purses

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/tourist-scams/assault-is-bad-end-to-a-great-trip-to-italy-using-rick-steves-advice

There was one this month, or last, from a man whose companion's strap didn't break, and she had black and blue marks, but was not dragged by the scooter. Couldn't find it quickly.

I agree with celeste. I use a cross body Baggallini purse when I travel, I don't think anyone needs an anti-theft purse. The ones I've seen are more expensive and heavier than other purses and I think they're totally unnecessary. A small cross body purse is fine and what I use at home. It will not attract thieves imo.

How you carry yourself and how attentive you are makes the difference imo, not the purse.

I don't think thieves care about the brand or type of purse you carry or how big or small it is, they are looking to see if they can take it or reach their hand into it. Make sure your purse had a top zipper, keep it close to your body, make sure that you have control of it, not spun around to your back and not flapping open. Keep it in front of our body and be able to put your hand over the top if you feel threatened or are in a high traffic area. I use a Kipling cross body, because it is light and has all the interior and exterior pockets I want and zipper on top. I like a bigger bag because I like to have a scarf stuffed in there for to meet church requirements and a water bottle.

Hi Celeste, you were asking why I think a smaller purse could attract thieves more than a larger one. Well, little crossbody bags have thinner straps....some are very thin....and it would be so easy for someone to snip it from the back and watch for it to fall to the ground. Because the purse is so small and light, losing it could go undetected for a while. This little Travelon is very light but I am certainly attracted to the smaller Baggallini bags out there. In fact, I use one daily.

Tim, the links you sent were very helpful.....especially the second link. Oh my goodness! People being dragged by scooter thieves! There was a line in one of the entries: In place of steel cabled reinforced straps, perhaps breakaway straps would be safer. Maybe!! Maybe it's time to think "velcro"! It probably doesn't matter if the purse strap has a cable through it or not as far as being dragged is concerned. The issue is probably more HOW we carry the bag, how loose the strap looks on the body....how grab-able it could be. All of this discussion is making me think!

I say this as a former investigator and former appellate lawyer for convicted defendants, thieves look for people who look vulnerable, are not paying attention, are carrying bags that are not or cannot be closed, or people who are flashing expensive valuables or cash. It could be one of those factors or a combination but I never investigated a crime and found a thief who said they stole a bag just because it was small. Granted the thieves were in New York City but I think the factors I listed apply all over the world. The size of the bag is probably 100th on a list of the 100 variables that a thief would consider. You don't need a special travel bag what you need is a bag that closes, situational awareness, and the general look that you are paying attention to your surroundings.

JHK's reply cracked me up! I'm glad for your post sten cos I am also paranoid about attracting thieves.

I never liked cable reinforced bags for the reasons mentioned. I have always used a cross body bag, but usually a little bigger than the wallet on the string you mention. I use that size at home, but for traveling, mine is about the size of an iPad or iPad mini depending on whether I need to carry a water bottle or 2. Zip top with a closable flap and the straps are seat belt material. Granted that stuff is sturdy, but slashable if they are really determined....then they can have it.
Wait a minute...I just read your last sentence - you wear it over your shoulder, not across your body? On the shoulder is too dangly and easier for people to grab and pull - particularly if you wear it on the side closest to the street. Your choice however.

Hi! I am currently on a trip to London. I also wanted a small cross body purse for the things you mentioned. It was too late for me to get an anti-theft purse (I just learned about them) so I went with a purse I was able to get in my home town. Having given it some thought though I thought I would rather a thief have my purse than me getting a broken arm or some such. I bought a very small purse that matches the color of my coat. I am going to wear it across my body but under my coat. My credit cards, etc. are going in a skin colored neck bag I have. I am also going to have an over-the-shoulder (cross body) bag for carrying water, my coat, etc.. I'm willing to lose everything in this bag to keep myself healthy, so it IS NOT anti-theft. I am wondering where people keep their passport while traveling about, however. I don't know that I need to have it with me while out seeing the sights, but I don't want to leave it in my rented flat either. Have a safe and WONDERFUL trip, sten!!

In addition to carrying a daypack, I would like to carry a very small
crossbody purse so I can easily access a day's worth of money, a
credit card, reading glasses, sunglasses, lip gloss, my small cell
phone

I'm curious why you think you need TWO bags? I carry my non-valuables in a shoulder bag and my daily valuables (cash and cards) in a little pouch pinned beneath my waistband. It's easy for me to access but invisible to anyone else. Yeah, I tuck some euro into my pocket but not an amount I'd be upset to lose. Haven't had it lifted yet.

My husband does use a Pacsafe for some of our stuff and we love it but for daily sightseeing, you don't need a daypack AND a crossbody purse, and I wouldn't carry cash/cards in a purse anyway.

Hi JHK: Thank you for your input. I like your answer because I really want to carry a small purse! But I have a question: If a thief were looking at a sea of crossbody bag straps from behind and this thief was using the “cut-strap-with-scissors” technique, it seems they would cut the thin straps, the ones belonging to little bags, first….not only because these straps are easier to cut, but because the owner of the small, light bag could very well not notice it falling away.

From your experience, do you think a thief that encounters an anti-theft strap would walk away from it or possibly take revenge out of frustration?

This all makes me rethink what exactly the purpose of the anti-theft bags is. If the bag deters the relatively harmless roaming, thieving hand with its fancy clasps, very good! But if the bag makes a thief angry because it doesn’t yield to cutting or slashing, it seems an armored bag may not be way to go. If a thief wants a bag, maybe he or she should have it!

The purpose of the expensive anti theft bag is for the manufacturer of that bag to part you from your money. Situational awareness and good common sense counts for more than an expensive bag.

Hi Sten:

I have made 9 trips to Europe and have only had a problem once in a crowd waiting to board a train. I was carrying a backpack and my wallet was stolen out of it. Since then I have carried a range of cross body bags, even a mini Doney & Bourke bag. I carry a small amount of money and my debit card, Kleenex, etc. . I have had no issues. I monitor my surroundings and keep my hand on top of my bag in crowds. I think you may be overthinking this.

Take what ever type of bag you feel comfortable using. A thief that can't cut a strap is not going to stick around to see why' not. Don't carry what you can't lose and concentrate on enjoying your trip.

This has been a very helpful discussion for me, everyone. Thank you all for your input!!

Hi Maria… no, no….I definitely wear my purse crossbody! I’m not a shoulder gal! I am increasingly thinking that cable reinforced bags could invite trouble. If I look, I’m quite sure I will find a small purse out there that may deter roaming hands while not be fully armored.

Folks, I can see that this is all about HOW you carry your bag and HOW alert you are to your surroundings (and trying not to make determined thieves angry!)

Hi Egram, I like that idea of hiding the small purse under a coat…or it could be a sweater or top or something. Harder to do if it is hot out, but there are ways. About the passport: that goes in your money belt that is under your clothes.

Kathy, I knew someone was going to question me on the TWO bags! Well, it’s like this: I find it too much of a hassle to keep those little purse things in a daypack, you know? I like having ready access to small amounts of money, reading glasses, sunglasses, and my cell phone. The purse is small and part of me and I am so used to carrying a small purse already. In a restaurant it stays crossbody and in my lap. It sounds like you use pockets like I would use a small purse (more or less) and I can see where that arrangement would be more secure if the pockets are secure. But what if you are wearing a skirt? The money belt is under my clothes with the important things secure. The daypack holds the extra jacket, umbrella, guidebook pages, lunch stuff, and sometimes the small purse. And actually, it would be my husband who would probably carry the daypack….we would share it.

Barbara….I think you may be right. I’m overthinking this! But it’s fun having this conversation with you all and I am now clearer about how to handle my stuff. Much clearer!

Thank you all!

I too am a two-bag carrier. Small crossbody bag with wallet, metro pass/tickets, phone, lipgloss/chapstick, and other essentials, and a small backpack for what I want to have with me but is less urgent to be protected -- guidebook, Kindle, sunscreen, water bottle, baseball cap, whatever. Basically anything in my backpack I know could be vulnerable and could go to someone who really wants in there (i.e. there's nothing in there it would kill me to lose).

This system works well for me and has for a long time! Everyone has their preferred method!

My wife got one of those Pacsafe or Travelon bags. I did not like those straps which are narrow and stiff. They are not that comfortable. The straps look weak and very tempting for a cut/snatch. However, because of the wire cable, your risk having your head torn off if somebody wihipping by on a moped tries a snatch and grab. I'm a guy and I always carry a shoulder bag everyday, at home or abroad. I always carry a tablet, smartphone and wallet. When travelling, I have a camera and passport, tickets etc. My shoulder bag has a two inch wide nylon strap. It is not as cut proof as a Travelon or Pacsafe, but it looks strong and is a deterent to a cut/snatch and grab.

I am also a two bag person, at the moment anyway, when need be; i.e., carrying my dslr. My cross body bag is always attached to me, sometimes under my coat or vest (I'm not a sweater person) and sometimes on top. This is my small body bag: http://www.baggallini.com/minis/rfid-bryant-pouch/BRY757-BG.html It holds necessary cards, some money, my iPod, passport when in transport, meds, phone when needed. I use this bag at home and when away. It worked out perfectly well with my cross body camera bag also. I never locked the zipper but it could be locked with a safety pin if necessary.

Many people on this very forum have been the victims of pickpocketing attempts (though the thieves sometimes got nothing of value, or the incident was interrupted in progress). Clearly, this is a fairly common occurrence that can affect even experienced travelers.

We've just had a report of a motorized snatch attempt in Naples. I believe that is not, overall, a common theft technique, but I've been reading warnings about that sort of thing specifically in Naples for at least 30 years, probably longer. One victim who stubbornly held on to her purse ended up with a broken collarbone, so it's something I try to keep in mind.

I haven't seen anything about this recently, but there used to be warnings about thieves on motorbikes grabbing purses held on people's laps in cars stopped at traffic lights, sometimes smashing a closed window to get access to the purse. You can see how that might be a rather productive technique when traffic is sluggish, but as I said, I haven't heard about it lately.

You'll notice that I haven't mentioned strap-slashing. That's because I don't think I had ever heard of it until the Pac-Safe people started marketing products to prevent something that must surely be extraordinarily rare.

A friend of mine had her purse strap slashed here in the states in an elevator at a Hyatt. My cross body purse with a cable in the strap is not heavy at all.

Gimmicks, these are all gimmicks. Just don't carry anything of value and only the money you need for the day and be aware.

I have been thinking about this awful motorcycle-theft experience a couple had.... Tim sent us this link:

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/tourist-scams/assault-is-bad-end-to-a-great-trip-to-italy-using-rick-steves-advice

It is so hard to imagine a motorcycle thief grabbing a crossbody purse unless:
1) The thief, for some reason, did not realize the purse was being worn crossbody, or:
2) The thief thought the strap would break and the purse would come free

Sten, I recently bought that exact same Travelon purse, and I think it will be better size-wise than my previous travel models I've had. However, I find that the strap is significantly longer than it needs to be, and I need to make it as short as possible to wear it as a waist pack without it sliding down my hips. I intend to shorten it before my next trip this October.

I LOVE feeling confident with the cable in the strap. I have a co-worker who had her strap slashed at the Trevi fountain.

I completely agree with carrying two bags -- one small cross-body for my day cash, a card, iPhone, lipstick... and I carry an extremely lightweight, small nap sack (Sea to Summit), in which I carry my day "stuff"... water bottle, clothing layer, etc. -- none of which would ruin my trip if it were damaged, lost, or stolen.

The reason for TWO bags, is because with the small cross-body (which I sometimes change to "waist pack" in restaurants), it NEVER COMES OFF MY BODY when out and about. Or, while dining. It is small, light, and discreet. If it were one, larger bag, then I wouldn't keep it on myself in those situations, and then it would be at risk for being stolen.

Also... remaining "alert" and "vigilant" is over-rated. It is impossible to predict every scam situation. In addition, you're on holiday... you're trying to take everything in -- looking up at buildings -- looking down so you don't trip off the narrow curb -- looking and listening everywhere. You are very unlilkely to spend 100% of your time being super aware of your surroundings. Just like when you KNOW magic is an illusion, and you WATCH CLOSELY -- you STILL can't see the sleight of hand. They are PROFESSIONALS. You are not.

Cheers,
Vivian

If the majority of your cash, credit cards, and passport are in your money belt, as you indicated, then the small risk of someone stealing 100 euros that you might have available in the purse is really insignificant.

One reason I like my cross-body bag is that it's easy to keep my hand on, so that I both appear and am vigilant.

@ Sten,
I will try to answer your questions but want to remind you that I have only dealt with pickpockets and muggers/robbers in the US and European thieves may be different – perhaps they are more sophisticated. I know that this sounds awful but you are giving street thieves way more credit for thinking and planning than you should. Street thieves as opposed to people who plan heists (which you only really have to worry if you are a Kardashian, a Saudi princess or a group of Asian tourists on a tour bus) are not very smart. They mainly fall into two categories: ones who don’t want to use violence and those who plan the theft with violence in mind.

The first group is made up of pickpockets or people who swarm you (setting aside whether that swarming constitutes violence in that they are touching you against your will) with lots of people touching you and one takes the item. If you confront them they either disappear or try to talk their way out of the problem. You avoid those thieves by having situational awareness and help it along by keeping you bag closed and a hand on it. Yeah, they might avoid a small bag but that would be because it’s harder to get into it without you knowing but that is not a major consideration because skilled ones can literally reach into your pocket and take stuff without you knowing. They are not armed. They can’t cut your bag because they are not armed. We don’t have a lot of those in the US but we do have some and they are mainly in big cities. In fact a veteran policeman I used to work with in New York used to complain about how lazy young American thieves were in the 90s because all they would do is grab a gun and mug someone instead of taking the time to learn the skill of pickpocketing like in the old days.
The second group are the ones who use violence or the threat of violence which could be a smash and grab, a gun, a knife to hold you up or to slash their bag, a fake gun in a pocket, yanking your bag and running or riding away, or using their size as an intimidation tactic. There are other things but the main thing is that you know or are very likely to know when the crime happens. Confrontations with those people can go either way and it mainly has to do with how desperate or hardened they are. Sometimes it ends badly and sometimes it does not. It’s just that simple. Those people look for people who they think are vulnerable. What makes you vulnerable could be anything but you can reduce that to some extent by being aware of your surroundings and looking like you are paying attention to life. Sometimes there is nothing you can do to avoid appearing vulnerable such as when the person is armed and does not think that you are or when you appear to be a stranger/tourist in an area. I have known thieves who only rob petite women and thieves who rob only old people and thieves who hang out in empty parks and rob anyone who walks in at night who does not look tough and thieves who only rob people they think are tourists and do not speak English or know how to call 911. Again the size of the bag will not matter, it will be whether they think that they can take you. If they think they can take you, they will try. In the very unlikely hypothetical situation in which they would be faced with a bunch of bags and people who all appear to be equally vulnerable, my guess is that they'd probably take the bigger bag because there would be more stuff in it. But in the real world, the decision is made based on conclusions about the potential victim.

Hi Vivian....it is nice to hear your thoughts on the Travelon purse I'm interested in. It sounds like we, and others on this thread, travel similarly. I like your idea of converting the purse to a waist pack when seated in a restaurant. I know this probably sounds overboard (and I would probably never follow through and do this) but I have an idea for making a cabled-strap safer should a scooter thief (or someone else?) try to grap the purse: why not make a little break-away system where the strap meets the purse...a way for the purse strap to separate from the purse thus eliminate the danger of ever being dragged by the purse. It's just a thought.

JHK, this is an interesting discussion. I have a new appreciation for the skilled pick pocket! It sounds like people who cut straps in Europe or elsewhere would be considered more dangerous by the mere fact they use a sharp to carry out the deed. They may not ever intend to injure a person but it is a more aggressive act than pick pocketing. When I really I think about this, when I picture someone having a go at my cabled purse strap from the back, I must admit I like the idea of this person being immediately successful! I realize the chances of this happening are slight but if it did happen, it makes sense to offer the path of least resistance! A thief could very well be surprised and confused as to why the strap wasn’t cutting (it would be odd!), and this could delay things and cause a confrontation. I say, take it!

I hope that you make it out of Europe alive! Pretty scary stuff - I don't know if I'll make it home from work today after reading this material.

Hi Emily....it is scary stuff....the things that can happen, but I'm not scared. Just educated and having fun making intelligent purchasing decisions. I'm in the midst of making a number of purchases for travel and as you can tell, I'm a researcher when it comes to spending money! I want the few things I bring to be well-thought-out and highly functional. These are things I would use in Asia, Europe or the U.S. Thanks for your input.

I hope that you make it out of Europe alive! Pretty scary stuff - I
don't know if I'll make it home from work today after reading this
material.

The original poster just asked a question to get different opinions. No need to make her feel bad for asking the question.

I put a lot of thought into my choices for travel as well, for me I need a cross-body messenger bag that I can put a book, camera and even a light sweater in, or some small purchases. Zipped closures are a must but I never bother with cables or anything, just follow the usual precautions (wear a belt-loop pouch, day's worth of cash and 1 credit card in slim wallet that is fastened to the bottom of purse). I can always spot a fellow tourist when travelling--crossbody bag clutched firmly, compared to what I perceive to be locals who have enormous tote-style purses that are often open at the top, bobbing along behind them.

This past trip a LeSportsac Everyday Essentials bag worked great for me, lightweight and sturdy, wide & comfortable strap that never irritated. You might check out their offerings for smaller bags. In the past I used a smaller Coach leather crossbody but it was too heavy and not big enough. If I know I'll be shopping, like at a flea market, I'll add one of those nylon bags that folds into it's own little attached pouch.

I use a 2-purse system. For my regular touring purse I have a LeSportsac Everyday bag. I also have an Eddie Bauer Travex cross body wallet.

Purse: I use this when I need to carry my iPad Mini, an umbrella and other stuff. I posted recently that I got picked in Paris with this purse. They got my ziplock bag of OTC meds but not my coin purse which had my day money in it. I was wearing a money belt with my money stash, credit and debit cards. I had added a ring to the zipper on the side where I carry my money and can use a carabiner to keep it closed. I had not secured it and felt nothing nor noticed anyone close by. No harm done, hand lotion and nail clippers replaced in 5 minutes at the Monoprix.

EB Wallet: I wear this when I think it is going to pour rain as I can zip it up under my rain jacket or when I'm not going to need much. I also use this when I am on a tour (Rick Steves or other) and can leave a bag on the bus with the iPad etc. I also wear this on the airplane. I travel solo and keep my passport in this along with day money until I get thru passport control at my destination. I wear it under my cardigan so it is mostly hidden.

I can almost guarantee you will go thru a number of personal systems until you find one that works for you!! Happy shopping!

I have been thinking about every entry on this thread. Thank you to everyone for your ideas (and thank you, Pilgrim). I’ve been looking at the links those of you have sent and considered going smaller and bigger with my “purse”, and even seriously considered the one entry asking why I’m taking two bags. This really is a good question. It is true I can get wound up with straps and pulling here and there to get bags free so I wonder if it might be best to bite the bullet when traveling and just make do with a small backpack, with secure zippers. It’s a pain to get into a daypack for small things, but maybe that is the way it should be if I don’t want to carry a small but bulky messenger-type crossbody. I know you are right, Pam…. I will undoubtedly try a number of personal systems to find a favorite one! I must admit that is the fun part!

I know Rick uses a back pack, but I just don't see it. If for physical reasons you really cannot carry 4 pounds or lighter across your body, then so be it, but for a pack to be secure you would need to carabiner closed every zipper, or carry it on your front - now talk about bulky! In crowds, or on public transport they stick out beyond your personal space and into others'. Europeans aren't very patient with that. If you need something from it, then you need to take it off and search for something making it very vulnerable to be grabbed out of your hand as you can't have a secure hold on it while also looking for it. Each and every travel bag I have has a zip top and a flap - that takes care of that problem of the purse being picked if they can get at the zipper. Unfortunately my bags aren't made anymore but they were lightweight. Sort of like the PacSafe Metrosafe, but lighter and slightly smaller - with a flap over the top and a clasp so they aren't getting to any zippers in a hurry. Unfortunately, I am not seeing much choice out there, but did see one....though it may not appeal https://www.amazon.com/Travelon-Anti-Theft-Flap-Front-Cross-body-Pewter/dp/B06XHWB1PS/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1494808220&sr=8-21&keywords=travel+handbag

I was in Paris for 2 weeks in Sept. 2012 and used a version of this Kipling tote/satchel which has a long cross-body strap:
https://www.amazon.com/Kipling-HB3170-414-Defea-Cross-Body/dp/B008Z9AISC

It was nice because you could stuff it with quite a lot, yet it was only the size of an average purse. However I would have liked to just use a "real" tote bag or purse and blend in like a local even more. But crossbody is no nice when you're traveling because you can keep your hands free to take photos and whatnot.

When in crowds or areas where there seemed to be a higher chance of theft (Montmartre -- base of Sacre Coeur steps was teeming with crowds of kids who were approaching people and looked to be working lots of scams / distractions), I kept it in the front with my hand over it and/or my hands actually holding the set of handles. I also walked very confidently. Look people in the eye if they seem shady, don't duck your head and look afraid. They are looking for easy targets.

Maria, you know, I think you are absolutely right about zipper locks on a backpack being downright frustrating! They would be certainly necessary so people aren't in your back pockets! I mean, trying to deal with all those obstacles for getting money, or sunglasses, or a cell phone out…. it makes traveling seem like more of burden, doesn’t it! I believe Rick carries a wallet in his pants pocket…. pants with pockets with buttons, or something. He can continue with the same set-up he is used to back home (like a woman with her purse). His backpack must carry the bulkier things: water, an umbrella, a light jacket, etc.

There have been a lot of entries here about crossbody messenger-type bags/purses, something I originally considered. I even put a lot of time into picking out just the right small bag and ended up buying this Eagle Creek bag:

https://www.rei.com/product/888262/eagle-creek-guide-pro-courier-rfid-shoulder-bag

I tried it during a trip to California and found it awkward because I am so used to the extreme organization of my small Baggallini purse, but maybe what I really need to do is practice with it more, and adopt a positive attitude! I am used to carrying a purse like lots of women, so maybe I just need to get with the plan and carry a bigger “purse” when traveling. It would simplify the two-bag issue (a small purse and a backpack). I could use a lightweight backpack when needed, or my husband can carry that. I have studied Sarah Murdoch’s website (adventureswithsarah.net) and I know she prefers carrying a messenger bag.

I could always bring a small lightweight little purse for those times I don’t want to bring the bigger bag… like some of you mentioned.

I seem to be going full-circle! I think I’ll pull out my Eagle Creek bag and get to know it better!

Sten, I think that looks very functional and much like the bags I have. Our Canadian counterpart of REI is MEC and they made similar bags, but with a full top flap...sadly, no longer available. You'll find you can get quite a bit in there including a narrow waterbottle and a teeny tiny umbrella. I bet a folded and rolled fine merino wool cardi will even fit in the main compartment.

Persevere with getting used to it. As you say, every new purse needs getting used to.

I'm a little troubled by some of the responses in the thread - the one's dismissive of anti-theft bags as nothing more than a money making scheme preying on people's fears. I disagree. And the same could be said of moneybelt makers.

While some aspects of anti-theft bags may be overkill, the POINT is that they are designed to be extremely difficult for a thief to access. A typical purse or daybag is easy to get into: unzip or unsnap and in goes the hand and out goes the wallet. Secure bags have systems designed to keep thieves from gaining access, at least easily or without your knowledge. Frankly, you can put everything in an anti-theft bag and have it safe; I've always though of adding a money-belt as overkill and redundancy.

If you have or find a bag that is secure from easy entry, then that could be used in lieu of an anti-theft type bag. Grab and run thefts are fairly rare in Europe, especially in most cities, but rare cases of broken bones makes a better headline than a surreptitious pickpocket theft.

Really all that is needed is to find a system that will keep your items safe, works for you and is comfortable and then just do it and don't worry.

PS - I have known of people whose bags were cut, either the straps or the underside. Most were 20-30 years ago so it may not be as common now.

Douglas, I would be one that is guilty of thinking people put too much reliance on these bags, but if it gives them peace of mind, then most likely I shouldn't criticize. I think the reason I don't like them is because of all the little catches on the zippers. I travelled with a woman who had one and to me she made herself vulnerable as after accessing the bag, she would stop and fiddle with it getting the zips closed up with the little latches again. Sometimes she did it in the store, which was a little more secure, but she also wouldn't move out of the way of others at the cash. Doing this on the sidewalk drew attention to herself - in my opinion. To me that is telling anyone watching that 'I have something worth protecting, therefore I have something worth stealing'. Perhaps that is just my take on it.
As far as slashing bags, my bags have seatbelt webbing straps. Not an easy thing to cut. Also, anything I don't want lost or stolen (that isn't secured on my person and not visible) is in zipped pockets inside the lining of the bag, so even if they slash the main body, they won't get much of value. The bag that Sten has has pockets inside a zipped pouch with a flap with latch over the top of that....pretty secure in my mind. I often even sew my bags. Dull outside, but snazzy girlie linings, and always a smaller shallower lining so that a slasher most likely doesn't even cut it. Also various zipped interior pockets and interior clips for keys and a caribiner watch I use so they don't fall out of the body of the bag.
For what it is worth, I have managed this system through numerous solo travels - a month in Ecuador, 3 trips to Tanzania (including a month of volunteering where my daily commute was 3 hours return - so walking and local bus; more walking and local bus), Uganda, Istanbul, Europe, Mexico. I rarely had in-room safes and in several of these countries, anything is more than what they have and tempting in their eyes. Nothing stolen, never threatened.
One thing to consider is that outdoor restaurant tables are also very vulnerable. One sits down, their purse is still across their body and on their lap...but their camera or cellphone is placed on the table and 10 minutes of distraction or dropping your guard and they are gone. Happens more often than one wants to hear.