15 Best Crossbody Bags and Purses for Travel
When we head out on a trip to a new destination, we typically carry around a lot of things with us that we normally wouldn't and have to plan where to put them. A crossbody purse is a perfect solution. It’s the size of an everyday purse, but small enough to hang from your shoulder to free up both hands. Plus it will make you look *super* chic while you are traveling. To help you prepare for your upcoming trip, we put together a list of the 15 best crossbody purses for travel that are not only safe and functional but stylish, too.
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Best crossbody bags and purses for travel: our top 15 picks
1. Best overall travel crossbody bag: Arden Cove
Started back in 2016 by two sisters, Arden Cove has been delighting female travelers with its stylish designs and custom locking hardware. Their Crissy Full Crossbody with Faux Leather Strap comes in at the top of our list for 2024 - and for a number of reasons. The bag features 100% slash-resistant lining, RFID-blocking technology to protect your credit cards, organizational compartments, durable water-resistant nylon, a D-ring to attach a key, and custom locking hardware. You also have the option to swap out the faux leather strap for a chain strap. And with 8 different color combinations, there’s bound to be an option that fits your personal style and preference.
Price: starting at $169
Read our full review of the Arden Cove Crissy Full Crossbody (and why we love it so much) here.
2. Best lightweight travel crossbody bag: Away
Looking for something light that won’t weigh you down? Look no further than Away. Crafted from a blend of 100% recycled nylon and polyester, the Everyday Crossbody from Away is incredibly lightweight and includes the perfect amount of organizational compartments — no more, no less. The adjustable webbing crossbody strap, enhanced by daisy chains on both sides, also provides a customizable and comfortable fit. With a main compartment featuring a convenient back wall slip pocket, organization is simplified, and the front zipper pocket further adds to the ease of accessing essentials on the go. This bag also comes available in three fun colors: wave, mustard, and classic black.
Price: starting at $45
3. Best leather crossbody bag: Lo & Sons
The Pearl from Lo & Sons is made from premium leather and can seamlessly convert from a shoulder bag to a large clutch. It features tons of pockets to accommodate your phone, credit cards, passport, and other essentials and comes with an adjustable shoulder strap. We also love the option you have to select what type of leather. Lo & Sons features three types: scratch & water-resistant saffiano leather, soft and buttery nappa leather, and plant-based, environmentally conscious cactus leather.
Price: starting at $193
Read our review of The Pearl from Lo & Sons here.
4. Best luxe crossbody bag: Cuyana
If you’re looking to step up your travel game with a luxe leather crossbody, then look no further than Cuyana’s Half-Moon Shoulder Bag. Made with an adjustable strap, this bag can transition easily from a practical crossbody to a convenient shoulder bag. It’s constructed from heavyweight Italian leather and all materials are sourced from a small family-owned factory outside of Pisa (…we’re obsessed). What’s more? The leather is LWG Silver certified (meaning it’s tanned responsibly and sustainably).
Price: starting at $298
5. Best hardshell crossbody bag: July
Australian brand July's Carry Me Mini Case is a great option for travelers because it is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around during your travels. It’s made with a crush-proof polycarbonate shell and also has a number of convenient features, such as a concealed zipped pocket and interior mesh pocket on the inside, and an adjustable shoulder strap. Overall, the Carry Me Mini Case crossbody bag is a practical and fashionable choice for anyone looking for a convenient and stylish way to carry their belongings while traveling.
Price: starting at $65
6. Best minimalist crossbody bag: Nisolo
Elevating travel convenience, the Convertible Crossbody Bag from Nisolo emerges as the ultimate minimalist choice for wanderers. Its thoughtful design seamlessly combines versatility and style, allowing it to adapt to various travel scenarios effortlessly. Crafted with precision and finesse, the sleek waterproof leather exterior exudes timeless elegance while the adjustable strap offers customization for comfortable wear (in fact, you can wear this bag a total of 5 ways!). With its spacious interior, including internal card and zipper pockets, this crossbody bag efficiently holds travel essentials, making it the perfect companion for those who seek both functionality and sophistication on their journeys.
Price: starting at $158
7. Best anti-theft travel crossbody bag: Pacsafe
Pacsafe is known for being a leader in anti-theft travel products, and their Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Square Crossbody undoubtedly lives up to its lofty reputation. This bag comes jam-packed with anti-theft features such as RFID-blocking pockets, wire-reinforced straps, and cut-resistant lining and is made from sustainable ECONYL® nylon and recycled polyester. It’s easily our favorite option for women who are looking for a bag that has extra protection and seamlessly adapts from an afternoon spent exploring a new city to a night out on the town.
Price: starting at $89
Read our full review of the Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Square Crossbody here.
8. Best backpack-style crossbody bag: Canvelle
Are you in search of a crossbody bag that can hold all your essentials? Then the Canvelle Sling Backpack might just be what you need. With its sleek and contoured design, this backpack features an air-cushioned back panel, a wide strap, and a roomy interior lined with water-resistant material that is easy to clean. In addition to these, it comes with convenient features like a key clip, water-resistant back pockets, and a versatile design that can be worn on either the front or the back.
Price: starting at $115
9. Best foldover crossbody bag: Quince
Quince repurposed 11 plastic bottles to create their highly practical Revive Nylon Foldover Crossbody. This bag features two separate zipper compartments and a back pocket, which ensures that your phone is always within easy reach. The nylon material is entirely recycled, making it eco-friendly, and its smooth texture, exceptional durability, water resistance, and lightweight design make it ideal for carrying with you everywhere.
Price: starting at $69
10. Best sling bag: CALPAK
With over 600 5-star reviews, it’s clear CALPAK’s Luka Belt Bag has made some die-hard fans. Reviewers love how this sling bag can seamlessly convert from a fanny pack to a crossbody for everyday, hands-free use. It features several compartments to store all your essentials and is incredibly lightweight and scratch-resistant. And classic to CALPAK, it comes available in beautiful neutral tones as well as bright limited-edition colors.
Price: starting at $58
11. Best versatile crossbody bag: Lo & Sons
The Nouvelle by Lo & Sons is a versatile and eco-friendly crossbody bag, perfect for daily use or travel. It features a premium recycled nylon exterior and cactus leather accents, making it lightweight and comfortable to carry wherever you go. The chic and minimalist design effortlessly complements any outfit, making it a great choice for both day and night occasions. Whether you're heading to work, the gym, a date night, or a vacation sightseeing adventure, the Nouvelle has got you covered.
Price: starting at $175
Read our review of The Nouvelle from Lo & Sons here.
12. Best machine-washable crossbody bag: BAGGU
The Medium Nylon Crescent Bag from BAGGU gives off an effortlessly casual look and features two interior pockets that are large enough to carry more than just the essentials. You can wear this bag as a crossbody or slung over your shoulder for a hands-free experience. Made from recycled nylon, this bag is easy to clean if you happen to attract some stains while you use it. And as a classic BAGGU design, you have the option of purchasing this crescent bag in a fun, bright color or a unique print.
Price: starting at $49
13. Best packable crossbody bag: Anothersole
Made from 100% recycled plastic, this bag from Anothersole can function both as a handbag and as a crossbody bag. The lightweight fabric makes it easy to pack into your carry-on and — our favorite part — it’s entirely machine washable. Even though this bag looks small, don’t be deceived. It’s surprisingly roomy on the inside and can easily hold all of your essentials. If you’re looking for a fun purse that packs a punch, this bag was made for you.
Price: starting at $88
14. Best outdoorsy crossbody bag: Topo Designs
Built with custom carabiner attachments and an adjustable shoulder strap, this pick from Topo Designs is one of our favorites for our more outdoorsy and adventurous gals. This bag features both internal and external pockets, secure zippers, and is made from 100% recycled nylon. Available in a variety of fun color options as well as solid colors, you’re bound to find the right color that fits your needs.
Price: starting at $49
15. Best durable crossbody bag: The North Face
As a well-trusted travel brand, we had to include this pick from The North Face on our list. Made from recycled nylon and a water-repellent finish, this bag has both internal and external zippered pockets as well as internal organization compartments which include a key hook, pen holder, and divider sleeve. The comfortable, adjustable strap allows for either a crossbody or over-the-shoulder carry.
Price: starting at $59
Travel purse crossbody FAQs
Why are crossbody bags for travel so popular?
Crossbody bags are popular for travel because they look fashionable, can function just as well as a handbag or purse at home, and have security features like slash-resistant straps and sides, RFID-blocking material, and lockable compartments.
What is the best kind of purse to travel with?
One of the best kinds of purses to travel with is a crossbody bag. Crossbody purses are great because they're easy to carry and keep your hands free, but they also have anti-theft features that can keep your valuables safe.
Are travel purses worth it?
Travel purses are definitely worth the investment because they are designed to protect your belongings from theft, which can be a big concern for those who travel frequently. Many people travel with their phones in their pockets or bags, but this means that they're more likely to lose them if those items are stolen or pickpocketed. By keeping your phone and other valuables in the safe confines of a travel purse, you can ensure that nothing gets lost on your trip.