Stuff that works (for me)...

Any trouble getting it through airport secruity as carry-on?

None at all.

It sailed right through the gate X-ray machines.

I got a chance to see the screen a couple of times and it was easy to see the cameras/laptop inside.

I use a pack safe sleeve which i think has been discontinued - were made in 2 sizes - the larger takes a laptop OK - wire mesh and covered with black canvas - low profile and cheap - easy to lock around something. The puny brass padlock is the weakpoint.

Thanks for the review. I'll probably get one for my next trip.

One final question: I just did some poking around and saw a more expensive model from which the entire mesh cage can be removed and used separately. Had you considered this? From your experience, would it be a practical alternative and worth the extra money?

That model wasn't available when I bought mine.

I never use a day pack while out, everything I need fits into my camera bag. If you use a day pack when walking around then it might be a good idea for you.

Thanks. Now I know what I'll be using my 20% REI coupon for.

Planning a two-week trip to Guanajuato and Michoacan, and having difficulty deciding what to take as a day bag. Generally, even at home, I prefer to carry something slung across my shoulders than a backpack, mostly because I can see what's going on. I bought a PacSafe shoulder bag today at REI, but indeed, it is a bit heavier than a regular nylon bag. I know it's practically a travel law to wear a moneybelt, but just the same I'll ask: mightn't it be safe enough carrying your passport and money in your PacSafe bag, and skipping the moneybelt, which I find super uncomfortable? I do it at home, and home's been San Francisco, New York City, Barcelona. That's probably the only thing that would make the extra weight of the PacSafe bag worth it. That, and I could also feel okay about my camera and my prescription sunglasses which are, unfortunately, way cool looking.

This is the PacSafe bag I got, the CitySafe: http://www.rei.com/product/735777

I have 2 pacsafe bags & I love the extra security they give.

Personally I wouldn't put money and passport in a pack that I might take off and have someone grab.

Stuff like that lives inside my pants. That's where I keep my really valuables of all sorts.

I sew a simple pocket inside my pants. If I'm going to need my passport then I'll put it in my shirt pocket until I'm done and then stash it away. Before I leave the room each day I put my "daily allowance" in a front pocket or shirt pocket and keep the bulk of my money and charge cards 'down under'.