While the right luggage sets and weekender bags can make your transit significantly easier, I'd argue that choosing the best travel purse is even more critical. While there are tons of travel bags you can bring with you, crossbody options, specifically, are often the best way to go. These are the bags that you rely on when going on day trips or smaller excursions, and we found the best ones that expertly mix both style and function.
Even though cross-bodies are an endlessly chic bag style, not just anyone will work as the perfect travel bag. If you pick a bag too small, you'll be left juggling your essentials while sightseeing. Pick one that's too large, and you'll wish you'd left it behind in the hotel. Finding one with the details you need—like the right number of pockets or one that comes in a versatile colorway—takes some work.
So, we did the hard part for you. To find the best options before you jet off on an end-of-summer getaway, Marie Claire spoke to travel experts Yolanda Edwards of travel and lifestyle site Yolo Journal and Brooke Saward, the writer behind the World of Wanderlust blog, which focuses on solo travel, about their go-to trip accessory—the crossbody travel bag. The belt-bag style is a favorite amongst the well-traveled set thanks to its hands-free design, detachable straps, and versatility, allowing it to take you from sightseeing to Aperitivo hour to dinner. Edwards, for instance, says she always carries two with her on every trip and cites one from designer bag band Ferragamo as her top pick.
From designer styles to smaller leather totes with handy convertible crossbody straps, the 21 bags on this list are small enough to carry hassle-free but are designed to hold all the must-haves for your next destination. Ahead, Edwards and Saward offer insight into how to find the best travel bags, including details to look out for, their favorite brands, and more.
Marie Claire's Favorite Crossbody Bags for Travel
- Best Overall Crossbody Bag for Travel: Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody Bag
- Best Affordable Crossbody Bag for Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
- Best Leather Crossbody Bag for Travel: Cuyana Double Loop Bag
- Best Durable Crossbody Bag for Travel: Dagne Dover Micah Neoprene Crossbody Bag
- Best Compact Crossbody Bag for Travel: Minooy Athena Unique Design Mini Crossbody Bag / Wallet
- Best Luxury Crossbody Bag for Travel: Ferragamo Small Iconic Leather Tote Bag
- Best Sling Crossbody Bag for Travel: July Everyday Belt Bag
- Best Water-Repellent Crossbody Bag for Travel: Lululemon All Night Festival Bag 5L
Shop The Best Crossbody Bags for Travel
This pale pink crossbody bag allows you to relax your grip. Pacsafe's water-repellent travel style features anti-theft properties, such as a slashguard strap and exterior, RFIDsafe pockets, and material to block out credit card or chip readers. Plus, it easily expands for those days when you need extra space, with enough room for a tablet. It also comes in one other neutral, light gray hue.
What's The Material?: Nylon and recycled polyester
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Two
With over 4,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this crossbody bag has been touted as a great option for safeguarding your belongings abroad thanks to features such as RFID protection and anti-slash straps. Reviewers love all the pockets in this bag, especially the hidden front pocket where you can store your cell phone and city guide maps. It even has designated pockets for water bottles!
What's The Material?: Polyester and nylon
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: One
A travel bag doesn't have to sacrifice style to get the job done—Cuyana's Double Loop Bag is a prime example. The brand is a favorite of Emily Blunt, who was recently spotted carrying it. The unique double-loop design of the shoulder strap adds a chic touch. Another bonus is the adjustable shoulder strap—you can turn this bag from a crossbody to a shoulder bag with just one snap, meaning it can take you from day to night in seconds. Shop it in four neutral colors.
What's The Material?: Italian leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Four
This bag from Dagne Dover is madeof neoprene, a.k.a. the fabric used in scuba gear. It's waterproof, so your things will be well protected whether you're heading to a tropical location or getting caught in the rain. It's also resistant to tears or cuts, and it's machine washable. This ba also has a ton of compartments for all of your items, and a nice wide shoulder strap to keep you comfy even on the longest of travel days. Better yet, it comes in four easy-to-style colors like mustard, black and brown.
What's The Material?: Neoprene and REPREVE® recycled polyester
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Four
This tiny crossbody-bag-wallet combo is well-suited for minimalists. But, you'll be shocked by this bag's many little pockets. Thanks to its compact design, this small but mighty option can fit your wallet, a journal, makeup, your passport, toiletries, and even an iPad mini. With RFID-blocking pockets, you can feel safe knowing your credit cards are protected. High-quality leather means you can plan to use this bag for plenty of future travel and it comes in 10 shades ranging from neutrals to brights.
What's The Material?: Soft full-grain leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: 10
This maroon Ferragamo crossbody bag is a favorite of Edwards, who loves it for its versatility. "I like this bag because it has a detachable cross-body strap and becomes a top-handle bag that I would take to fancy lunches or dinners," she says. It's the right size for your essentials and won't feel too big when it rests on your hip.
What's The Material?: Calf leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: One
This July pick is Saward's go-to for traveling since she can wear it over her shoulder. "Everything is easily accessible, but not located on the side or back of my body where it could be a potential hazard for pickpockets," she explains. It's made from woven cotton, making it easy to pack and machine-washable, and it comes in four classic hues. The inside is also coated, so you can clean it out in seconds.
What's The Material?: Cotton with TPU coating
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Four
If your trip involves unpredictable weather or the forecast looks stormy, you'll want to invest in this sporty two-in-one crossbody bag that can also be worn over the shoulder. This top-rated athleisure brand Lululemon find will keep your belongings dry and roomy enough to fit all your essentials. The thoughtful extra-wide opening means you can easily find what you want without digging around.
What's The Material?: Nylon and polyester.
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Two
Other Crossbody Bags for Travel We Love
Leatherology's Meadow Double Zip Camera Bag is the right size to hold all your essentials without adding bulk. With two zippered compartments, you can easily keep your things organized. The essential items like your passport and ID will be extra secure in an internal zippered pocket. The best feature of this bag is that it comes in 12 different colors, including neutrals, pretty pastels, and croc-embossed leather, and also has the option for personalization.
What's The Material?: Full grain leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: 12
It wouldn't be a stretch to say this bag may be Uniqlo's most popular item ever. This $20 bag has gone viral on TikTok, with tons of users showing off just how much it can carry in their videos. I actually bought the black version for a trip to Europe, and it served me better than I could have imagined—it's comfortable, holds so much despite its deceptively "Mini" name, and is durable. The shoulder strap is easily adjustable so that you can wear it in various ways. Plus, it comes in several fun colors.
What's The Material?: Nylon and polyester
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Nine
Madewell's Transport Tote is one of our favorite leather totes of all time, so it should come as no surprise that we also love the smaller crossbody version. It's made from the same soft leather that reviewers say looks and feels luxurious. The interior is roomier than expected and is specially designed to hold a tablet, a makeup pouch, and a water bottle. Another great feature is the double set of sturdy straps. Depending on your desired look and plans, you can switch this bag from a crossbody to a shoulder bag.
What's The Material?: Leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Two
Tumi is a cult-favorite luggage brand for a reason. It only uses the highest-quality materials in its designs, and functionality is a primary concern in the design process of every single piece. This crossbody has ample pockets—enough for your keys, wallet, phone, and credit cards to have their own space. It's durable nylon and has shining golden hardware for an extra luxe touch.
What's The Material?: Nylon and leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Four
A sure way to ruin a trip is by packing a bag that's too heavy to carry around all day—but you won't have that problem with this bag. It's made from a material that's as light as air. It comes in two different sizes—this larger one, or the mini size for quick trips—and over 20 colors to match perfectly with your coordinating luggage sets.
What's The Material?: Polyester
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: 23
Don't be fooled by this bag's seemingly small size. This surprisingly spacious crossbody from Shay Mitchell's brand, Beis, contains plenty of pockets to keep your essentials organized. In the middle is a built-in card organizer while the front has a micro-fiber lined pocket for your most precious item, your phone. There's also a water bottle pouch on one side so you always remember to stay hydrated.
What's The Material?: Nylon and vegan leather trim
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: One
We're big fans of Rothy's shoes here at Marie Claire, but the brand's bags are just as good. Made from Rothy's signature sustainable fabric (which is made from plastic water bottles), this is a great find for those looking for leather alternatives. It includes two removable straps to easily take you from day to night and has plenty of pockets to keep your things organized. The best part? It's fully machine-washable, so when on-the-go spills inevitably occur, you can keep it looking as good as new.
What's The Material?: Marine-plastic knit and Rothy's signature thread spun from plastic water bottle
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Seven
This bag may be small, but it securely (and stylishly) holds your travel essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and passport. And because your phone is likely what you reach for most, you can keep it handy with an easy-to-reach pocket. Reviewers say the quality of the leather is especially good, making the bag look and feel extra luxurious.
What's The Material?: Genuine pebble leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Five
JW PEI bags are of great quality for their price point, and I should know, considering I own a few. The brand's Mini Flap Crossbody is a good option if you're looking for a trendier bag to take with you on your travels. Available in 13 different colorways—including this dark brown and fun shades like metallic silver and bright pink—there's a shade for everyone. While this bag has no zip closure, it has a secure magnetic button and an interior zippered pocket for your personal items.
What's The Material?: Vegan leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: 13
Slim bags like this one are a dream to pack—or to keep close to you on a crowded street. Longchamp is known for its lightweight nylon fabrics, but the brand's leather offerings are worth the investment, too. The adjustable shoulder strap, zipper-top design, and zippered interior pockets make this a versatile pick.
What's The Material?: Leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Three
Sometimes, simple is better. With a sleek, classic design, this brown bag (which also comes in white) suits everyone's style and will go with nearly everything in your closet. It's not too big or small, so you can easily fit your travel essentials comfortably. Plus, the zip top closure and zipper pockets keep them secure.
What's The Material?: Leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Two
I can always count on Quince for high-quality finds that won't break the bank. Made from Italian leather, this bag has a look and feel that feels so luxe. It features two zippered compartments and a magnetic-close middle compartment, all of which have plenty of pockets for each of your things to have a designated spot. It also comes with a removable wristlet strap so you can easily turn this bag into eveningwear.
What's The Material?: Top-grain Italian leather
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Four
Some people are the type to throw everything in a bag and go—and that's ok! If you would rather not mess around with multiple pockets, an oversized pouch option like this is the way to go. You can throw in everything you need for the day, and it can be a lot, thanks to this bag's roomy interior, zip the top, and head out the door. It has a nice thick strap, so no matter how much you're schlepping around, your shoulder won't ache.
What's The Material?: Polyester
How Many Colors Does It Come In?: Two
What to Look For in a Crossbody Bag for Travel
- A Secure Closure: How it closes separates a good travel purse from a great one. It's the most important feature of a travel purse for Edwards, who says, "It needs to have easy access, but a secure closure so nothing falls out and people can't reach into it." A crossbody bag would ideally have a zip-top closure, but a flap works, too. Stay far away from anything that doesn't close fully or only uses magnetic closures, or you'll risk easy access to pickpockets.
- The Right Size: This may be up to personal preference, but size matters when it comes to the best travel purses. Howards says, "It can’t be too small—and must hold her wallet, passport, glasses, and lip balm—but it isn’t a carryall." With a tote bag, you'll be too tempted to throw in non-essentials, resulting in an aching shoulder at the end of the day. Instead, a crossbody bag is the "Goldilocks" of travel purses—they're small enough to carry your essentials but not too big to be burdensome.
- The Color: Sure, a red bag may look especially trendy right now, but it's actually smarter to bring something less noticeable as your travel purse. "I would avoid choosing bright colors, because you don't want the location of your money, bank cards, or phone to stand out," Saward advises. Instead, the travel pro says she always goes with a sleek black bag—that way, her necessities are kept more under-the-radar, not to mention a black bag goes with every look seamlessly.
How to Style the Best Crossbody Bags for Travel
A structured crossbody bag is ideal for keeping casual looks elevated. A contrasting bag breaks up a monochromatic outfit, or it can seamlessly blend in when worn with brighter hues.
Styling your bag isn't about making your bag the star—it's more about making sure that the bag works with every other item you pack in your travel capsule wardrobe. Versatility is everything when shopping for a travel bag. It needs to work with a travel day ensemble and a nice dinner. An easy, neutral-colored bag will work with your easiest leggings outfits or an endlessly-layered ensemble on a busy morning spent at the airport.
Meet the Experts
Yolanda is the founder of Yolo Journal, a magazine and newsletter dedicated to traveling. She's also a longtime magazine editor, having previously worked as a photo editor at Condé Nast Traveler and later as the publications creative director.
Brooke is a travel expert who's spent the last 10 years blogging about her travels on the World of Wanderlust blog and Instagram account. She shares her tips, tricks, and guides on her favorite cities and how to navigate solo traveling, as well as a Masterclass on travel blogging. She's also the author of World of Wanderlust, which features her best travel tips and stories from her travels through Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, Oceania, and the Middle East.
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