What is RFID and where to find it – Beside-U Bags & Accessories

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What is RFID?

Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (27)

Wonder how to keep all your personal banking information… well, personal? Do you even know what is RFID?  You need to know what RFID is, where to find it and how to keep your info safe.  RFID is Radio Frequency Identification.   Radio waves are used in a variety of industries for identification from hospitals to libraries by using RFID chips embedded into badges and books.  A chip holds information that can be read by an accompanying system, much like a barcode. 

How does this relate to handbags, purses or knapsacks, you may ask?  You are likely carrying a wallet with cards carrying your banking information.  Consider the “tap” feature on your debit or credit cards, this is made possible by the RFID chip that is being read every time you make a transaction.  Similarly, many passports (including American and Canadian) have adopted this feature for convenience and security reasons.

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As with any new technology, there are those unscrupulous types who will garner your information and use it for the wrong reasons.  Thieves will use knowledge and equipment to steal the information from your cards and passports, which can lead to a variety of finance or identity-related crimes.  Nothing could be worse than having your identity stolen when you are travelling.  Getting the right gear to keep your information safe is so important. In order to keep your information secure, Beside-U offers RFID-guarded zipper pockets in nearly all their bags. Place your wallet and passport inside for secure, worry-free travelling.

If you need to understand how it works Beside-U has a short video to explain how.

I wanted to provide my readers with a review of a great travel bag and knapsack because, on my recent trip to Florida, ALL my girlfriends were carrying a Beside-U BAG!  They all had great things to say about these bags and I will post links to their reviews so you will have a second, third and fourth opinion.  I have also created a short video showing you the bags.

Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (12)

The first bag that we’re looking at is the Ezra cross-body bag.  This lightweight nylon bag is perfect for the traveller that likes to keep their hands free while also having their possessions easily accessible. Two zippered pockets in the front and two open pockets on the side add extra storage to this bag.  The best part about these bags is the quality of the hardware and the zippers.  They glide easily and are sturdy.  You will find the stitching and overall finish of superior quality and up for repeated use.  I once reviewed a bag whose stitching came apart with only a few weeks of use – you will not have that problem with any Beside-U bag!

Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (17)
Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (15)

I love that this bag has many compartments.  With an abundance of exterior pockets for your commonly used items and interior slip pockets for ID cards, wallets and cell phones, these bags are perfect for every day or for travelling.  Keeping organized means that you are not distracted looking for something when you should be paying attention to your surroundings and your luggage.  There are pockets small notebooks, small water bottles, make-up etc.  It’s also equipped with an interior RFID-blocking zippered pocket that is spacious enough to fit your whole wallet. This bag also features two new security features: a click hook to lock the main compartment and a small, detachable security whistle.

Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (6)

Looking for something to carry more than just the essentials on your travels?  I carry a lot of things when I am travelling and at times, there is just not enough space in my purse for what I need.  I wanted to have a good look at a backpack/tote bag from Beside-U and they had plenty of options.  Whether you were looking for a laptop bag (which I am coveting for my hubby) or a knapsack, there is something for you.  The second bag I’m reviewing is the Pratum backpack.

Equipped with an 11-inch laptop sleeve for your laptop or tablet, a spacious main compartment and additional front and side pockets, this bag is perfect for the day tripper.  You can easily store a small laptop (my 15.6-inch laptop would not be able to fit but my tablet and portable keyboard are no problem)!  There is also room for a DSLR,  GoPro or even a small drone. I managed to have room for all my equipment plus a book!

Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (18)
Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (9)

There is a secret pocket in the back where you can keep your valuables close to you.  I like that the back straps are wide and provide padding for better support.  The benefit of carrying this backpack is its lightweight nylon make that is both water and tear-resistant plus it is easy to clean (they even ship you washing instructions with your order).  I love the large compartment.  It let me store my jacket, mitts and hat when I was recently in Toronto for the day.   Another HUGE bonus is this knapsack features a lockable main compartment (check out my review on YouTube in this video Winking smile) and a detachable security whistle – how cool is that?

Beside-U Review for bags & backpacks RFID protected - @DownshiftingPRO (29)

I really enjoyed reviewing these Beside-U Canada bags because they are good quality, durable, fashionable and come in a variety of styles, colours and sizes.  You can feel confident knowing your items are safe and by your side with Beside-U’s lightweight nylon bags (and they really are light!).   I would love to hear what you think.


Disclosure: This is a sponsored post and as such I was given two bags to review.  No other compensation was received.  All opinions are that of DownshiftingPRO.com and are truthful.

 🥾 Explore: Tours & Experiences
🏡 Where to Stay: Top Accommodations
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🛫 Get Away: Find Flight Deals
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