Review on Black Pacsafe Venturesafe X Sling Pack With Anti-Theft Features by Eric Cooper

The short version: I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a bag to hold small items like a phone, wallet, power bank, etc. However, if you want to carry a laptop (or an iPad with a case on it), larger camera, etc., look elsewhere. Also, the zippers are loud, so be ready for a little noise.Pros: Pacsafe consistently makes the best packs for security, and this is no exception; if that's your primary concern, you should at least stick with this company. The Roobar zipper locking system is great; I've heard other reviews talk about this taking a while to open, but unless you have physically locked the zippers with an external lock, I've never taken more than a few seconds to unlock the pack. It takes a little longer to lock back up, but it's not bad. The built-in slash guard provides peace of mind, and being able to lock the strap to a fixed point is a nice touch, even if I don't personally use it. This is also one of the few slings that I've carried that seems to stay positioned properly on my back, rather than sliding down under my arm when loaded. The sling can be positioned for either arm, and is comfortable and breathable. The outer mesh pocket is stretchy enough to fit a "standard" water bottle (the Smartwater/Lifewater size), but probably wouldn't fit a wider Nalgene. The pockets have plenty of organization, and a good mix of size.Cons: This pack is smaller than I expected. I can fit an iPad Pro in the back sleeve, but just barely and only if I remove the case (see the picture). With even a small case on the iPad, it no longer fits in the dedicated pocket and instead takes up a large portion of the main pocket. The main pocket is also too small for anything but a very light jacket, especially if you have an iPad or similar device in it. Finally, because this is a narrow but long sling, it can be difficult to access items that are at the bottom of the pockets, since there isn't much room to get your hand in there. While I love the Roobar system for locking the sling, the zippers themselves make a lot of noise when they are not locked together. Of course, if you are traveling and locking them every time you access the sling, this won't be a big deal. But if, like me, you plan on using this pack as a daily carry and don't always want to lock it, the zippers can get annoying. The outer mesh pocket uses a J-hook closure, but even with a standard water bottle in the pocket, you can no longer closer the hook, which means it just kind of dangles as you walk (see the picture). This makes anything you put in the pocket feel less secure and just kind of looks sloppy.Summary: This is a great pack for a light daily carry, and would be perfect for someone traveling and looking to bring some small items with them while they are out and about. If you want to carry a tablet or larger electronic device, I'd look for a bigger option. The zippers are noisy, and the pack can be tough to access, but if you lock it regularly and don't overstuff it, it'll work well. Just know that anything you put in the outer mesh pocket will be less secure and detract slightly from the otherwise clean aesthetic.