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Amazon's President's Day Sales Reflect Growing Safety Concerns

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 20:21 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locale: Multiple, UNITED STATES

Monday, February 16th, 2026 - Amazon's annual President's Day sales event is in full swing, and a significant trend is emerging: a surge in demand for personal safety and anti-theft devices. This year's discounts on items ranging from anti-theft backpacks and personal alarms to GPS trackers and home security systems aren't just about snagging a good deal; they reflect a broader societal increase in anxiety regarding personal security, both while traveling and at home.

The discounts, which began over the weekend, showcase reductions on popular products like the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Backpack (now $45, previously $64), the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack ($33 from $41), and the high-tech XD Design Bobby Hero Anti-Theft Backpack ($119, down from $149). These backpacks aren't just about carrying belongings; they're engineered with features like hidden zippers, slash-proof materials, and RFID-blocking pockets to protect against pickpockets and digital theft - a growing concern in crowded urban environments and tourist hotspots.

Beyond protecting possessions, individuals are increasingly investing in devices for direct personal safety. The Skylet Personal Safety Alarm and Tactical Defense Personal Alarm, currently available for $16 and $17 respectively (down from $20 and $21), offer a simple but effective deterrent, emitting a loud siren to attract attention in potentially dangerous situations. These compact devices provide a sense of empowerment, particularly for individuals who walk alone at night or work in potentially vulnerable roles.

Perhaps the most telling indicator of shifting safety priorities is the strong performance of GPS trackers. The Apple AirTag, a popular choice for tracking belongings and even pets, is available for $29 (a slight decrease from its usual $30 price), while the Tile Mate (2022) is discounted to $25 from $30. These aren't just 'find my keys' gadgets anymore. Increasingly, they're being used for peace of mind - tracking luggage during travel, monitoring the location of elderly family members, or even providing an extra layer of security for children.

The inclusion of door and window alarms, like the Simple Home Security Door Window Alarm Set (now $24, previously $30), further highlights the broadening scope of personal safety concerns. While traditional home security systems remain prevalent, these affordable and easy-to-install alarms offer a convenient and accessible entry point for those looking to bolster their home security without a significant financial investment.

The Rise of 'Precautionary Security'

Experts suggest this trend represents a shift towards what's being termed 'precautionary security'. Dr. Evelyn Reed, a sociologist specializing in fear of crime, explains, "We're seeing a move away from reactive security - calling the police after something happens - towards proactive measures. People are anticipating potential threats and investing in tools to mitigate risk before an incident occurs."

This increase in demand isn't necessarily reflected in rising crime rates. While certain types of crime fluctuate, overall statistics often remain stable or even decrease. Instead, the perception of risk, fueled by media coverage of isolated incidents and the constant stream of information available online, appears to be the primary driver.

"Social media plays a huge role," says Mark Olsen, a security analyst. "People see videos of thefts or assaults, and it creates a heightened sense of vulnerability, even if those incidents are statistically rare. This leads to increased demand for products that offer a sense of control."

The Amazon sales are merely a symptom of this larger trend. Other retailers are also reporting increased sales of personal safety devices, and security-focused startups are attracting significant investment. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative products emerge, catering to the growing desire for personal safety and security. Amazon's President's Day offerings are a clear signal that the market for peace of mind is booming.