After reading many horror stories about pickpocketing in Europe (we were going to Italy this summer), I decided to take extra precautions.  I looked at a number of security bags but decided on PacSafe MetroSafe because I liked the size, shape, and security features.  I liked black because it felt less noticeable and promoted a non-gender specific look.  My husband, who will not touch my purse with a ten foot pole, carried this thing like a messenger bag all over Italy.  He was a bit apprehensive until I told him it basically looks like a large camera bag (it's true) and that was it!  We were able to carry a small umbrella and water bottle in each of the two exterior side pockets.  I had our thick travel book, phrase book, a shawl, small money purse, passports, lip balm, hand sanitizer, city maps, sunglasses, keys, fruit and small snacks.  We weren't carrying a back pack and never had a need for more space (I had a tiny compact ChicoBag just in case).  They do make a larger Metrosafe but this was good enough for us.  As far as the security, top notch!  I saw a man/woman team look at each other and the woman nodded "no" to the man.  Not sure if it was the bag or my vigilance, either way, they weren't going to get into Fort Knox.  If you're careful in how you wear the bag, use the security features (I didn't think they were obnoxious - isn't piece of mind the point?) and don't put it down for someone to grab and run off with (trains are notorious), you won't be sorry!  We plan to use this again and again.

Final note, which I think someone else may have mentioned in another review, beware of the strap that goes across your body.  I was wearing a backpack so while I'm not sure if it was the bag or the backpack, it may cause certain shirt materials to peel. To be on the safe side, I will most likely line the back of the strap with fabric at some point to rule it out.  I still give it a 5-star though!