As much as I love living in NYC and enjoying the activities, restaurants, and events it has to offer, I can’t help but feel on edge when it comes to protecting my valuables in public. Theft can happen anywhere, whether you live locally or are visiting, so I’m always considering new ways to secure my belongings, including quality anti-theft bags.

I recently stumbled upon this affordable, top-rated travel sling bag and immediately wanted to test it out — and it’s since become a go-to in my everyday collection. Not only is it comfortable yet secure on my body, it’s also spacious, stylish, and equipped with hidden organizational pockets.

Protege Travel Sling Bag

I was sent this best-selling bag to test and have been wearing it consistently for weeks. I’m still shocked that it costs only $12 considering how spacious and versatile it is. I easily toss it over the front of my body, which lately has been wrapped up in a bulky sweater, scarf, and jacket combo in NYC’s cold weather. It comfortably comes with me to a variety of destinations, including brunch, the gym, and the grocery store. I typically wear it under my jacket for extra security while on the subway and walking down the street, but it fits so snug across my body, I don’t think this added precaution is necessary.

It comes with a fairly deep main compartment, which fits a paperback book, lint roller, gloves, hand sanitizer, face masks, lip balm, hair ties and clips, and more with room to spare. There’s also a convenient key clip, stretchy open pocket, and zippered pocket found inside the compartment. The mesh back of the sling bag has an easily adjustable shoulder strap and hidden zippered pocket, which safely holds my iPhone and wallet. There’s also a zippered pocket on the front of the bag that’s convenient for accessing your passport when traveling internationally and other frequently used items.

I’m not the only one loving this bag — other shoppers appreciate its value and quality. A healthcare professional shared that they comfortably stored their 20-ounce Yeti cup inside, while a mom said they brought theirs on family outings and while shopping. A third shopper swears by the bag for bike rides, since it holds everything they need, including their lunch and an ice pack, without being bulky.

Keep scrolling to shop more top-rated travel bags, including this on-sale tear-resistant sling bag that can charge your phone on-the-go and this shopper-favorite from Michael Kors that’s now 78 percent off.

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Leather Cross Dome Crossbody Bag

Suptree Shoulder Crossbody Sling Bag

iFly Travel Belt Sling Bag

Montana West Anti-Theft Backpack

No Boundaries Sling Bag

Yomym Anti-Theft Convertible Shoulder Satchel and Backpack

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