Backpacking in Europe...

[MG_Saldivar]

Another handy security item is a small combination lock to lock together the zippers on your pack:

http://www.eaglecreek.com/40031.html


This doesn't help if your bag is stolen, or if a determined thief cuts open your bag, but it should help against opportunity-seeking pickpockets. Also, a handy trick I learned when traveling by train is to tie my pack to the overhead bin or to the seat -- either with cord or (ideally) by 'clicking' a belt buckle (i.e., on a pack waistbelt) to itself after running it through a handy bar or grate.

 

[cheung_victor]

The HAK can give you more trouble than you really want if you get caught with it. It has that concealed weapon thing going, and that can be bad. A SAK, well, I don't know if anyone would consider it a weapon, and backpacking certainly gives you a reason to have one, but the HAK is a different story. I'd leave it at home.

I agree a sak or leatherman, it has more tools and it’s a familiar knife to all cultures.