Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (2024)

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (1)

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Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (2)

By Brooke Knappenberger

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As someone who travels every two to three months, I know just how important your choice of baggage can be. While the right luggage sets and weekender bags can make or break a trip, we'd argue that picking the right crossbody travel bag or purse to use in your day-to-dayis just as crucial. Pick a bag too small and you'll be left holding water bottles and guide maps in your hand (annoying). Pick a bag too large and it'll be too cumbersome to use.

If you're not the backpack type, you'll want to look for other travel bag alternatives—and that's where these travel-ready crossbody styles come in. From typical crossbody bags to leather totes with crossbody straps, these bags combine function with style to serve as the perfect addition to your next getaway. They're just small enough to carry hassle-free, but are designed to hold all of your must-haves without a fuss—some even boast anti-theft features.

Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (3)Best Overall Crossbody Bag for Travel

Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody

You can relax your grip with this crossbody bag. Pacsafe's water-repellent crossbody bag for travel features anti-theft properties such as a slashguard strap and exterior, RFIDsafe pockets, and material to block out credit card or chip readers, plus turn-and-lock security. Plus, it easily expands for those days you need extra space with enough room for a tablet.

Pros: Expandable style; Hidden storage pocket for extra security; Includes anti-theft technology; Comes in three colors.

Cons: Narrow shoulder strap.

Customer review: "I think this is the best travel bag ever! It is lightweight and comfortable to wear crossbody. I feel secure wearing it. Holds everything I need, and I love the deep pocket for money and passports." — Pacsafe

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (4)Best Budget Crossbody Bag for Travel

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

With over 4,000 5-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 available in this bag, especially the hidden front pocket where you can store your cell phone and city guide maps.

Pros: Under $100; Zip top closure; Two water bottle pockets; Adjustable shoulder strap; Includes anti-theft technology;

Cons: Reviewers note this bag feels a bit heavy.

Customer review: "I bought this purse to take with me to Europe. We visited 4 countries in 3 weeks and this was the only purse I needed for all our excursions. It's very comfortable, kept everything organized, and the built-in cup holders were SO handy!!!!" —Amazon

Best Compact Crossbody Bag for Travel

Minooy Athena Unique Design Mini Crossbody Bag / Wallet

For the Marie Kondo-obsessed comes this crossbody and wallet in one. One look inside this bag and you'll be shocked by the many little pockets this bag has. This small but mighty bag can fit all of your credit cards, a journal, makeup, passport, toiletries, and even an iPad mini thanks to its organized, compact design. Plus, with RFID-blocking pockets, you can feel safe knowing your credit cards are protected. With smooth high-quality leather, plan to use this bag for plenty of travels over the years.

Pros: Multiple inner pockets for organization; Includes anti-theft technology; Adjustable shoulder strap; Can hold up to 12 cards; Zip top closure; Made from real leather; Comes in six colors.

Cons: Over $150.

Customer review: "As a frequent traveler, I wanted a bag that would comfortably hold all my essentials--and do so safely--but not weigh me down. This bag is absolutely PERFECT for my needs. It holds my cards in an RFID-protected space, pen and journal, my reading and sunglasses, hand cream, lip balm, and keys with room to spare for my iPhone! Plus, the leather is so incredibly soft and luxurious! LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag!" — Minooy

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (6)Best Water-Repellent Crossbody Bag for Travel

Lululemon All Night Festival Bag 5L

If your trips involve unpredictable weather or the forecast looks stormy, you'll want to invest in a water-resistant crossbody bag. This one from Lululemon will keep your belongings dry and is roomy enough to fit all your essentials. The thoughtful extra-wide opening means you can easily find what you're looking for without having to dig around. The adjustable strap means you can convert this into a sleek shoulder bag, too.

Pros: Under $100; Water-repellent fabric; Adjustable shoulder strap; Zip closure; Comes in three colors.

Cons:Reviewers note this bag can lose structure over time.

Customer review: "I bought this for a New York trip that I am currently on and it is the best! There are so many more pockets than I was expecting and I can fit so much in it without having to carry a big bulky backpack. Highly recommend." — Lululemon

Best Convertible Crossbody Bag for Travel

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Bag

Anytime I travel, I'm always tempted to bring along at least three different purses to go along with any of my plans. But since that's not the most practical way to back, I've found a better solution with this convertible bag. It's not just a crossbody bag—it can also be converted into a shoulder bag, belt bag, and even a wristlet. With so many ways to wear it, this bag is the ultimate travel piece to bring along so you stay in style. There's also a ton of different colors and leather options (including vegan leather!) to suit your fancy.

Pros: Convertible design; Zip top closure; Comes in 26 colors and three leather options.

Cons: Can't fit larger items.

Customer review: "Love this bag! I bought it for a long trip I’m Europe. I’m currently traveling and so far I love it! I wanted something that was functional and but also matches my European summer outfits! This was perfect fit! The quality is better than expected! I love the quality of the zippers too! Overall luxury feel bag with functional design! It is perfect!Read more about review stating European summer dream purse!" — Lo & Sons

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (8)Best Splurgeworthy Crossbody Bag for Travel

MZ Wallace Crosby Zip Nylon Crossbody Bag

Don't be fooled by the seemingly small size of this bag. This surprisingly spacious crossbody contains plenty of pockets to keep your essentials organized and comes with two interchangeable crossbody straps, one leather and one chain. It's the perfect bag for moms traveling with small tots who need space to stash on-the-go snacks and other necessities.

Pros: Comes with two adjustable strap options; Features four external zippered pockets for easy access; Zip top closure.

Cons: Over $200.

Customer review: "This bag holds everything! I can’t believe all that fits inside. Amazing! Not to mention the 3 strap options. This bag is a winner and worth every dollar!"

Best Leather-Alternative Crossbody Bag for Travel

Matt & Nat SAMLG Large Crossbody Bag

For those seeking an alternative to leather crossbody bags, check out Matt & Nat. The brand, founded in 2007, makes accessories out of recycled materials like nylon, cardboard, rubber and cork, and water bottles. This under-$100 option comes in six colors and looks sophisticated.

Pros: Under $100; Adjustable shoulder strap; Made from recycled materials and vegan leather; Zip top closure; Comes in six colors.

Cons: Cannot hold large items.

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (10)Best Tote-Sized Crossbody Bag for Travel

Portland Leather Goods "Almost Perfect" Crossbody Tote

A good leather tote is a must-have in everyone's closet, but one suited for travel is even better. This classic tote will fit all of your things, whether it be a laptop or water bottle, and keep them secure with its zip-top closure. Made from real leather, this tote will last you through plenty of trips while also keeping its structured shape and even doubles as a work bag. A detachable shoulder strap makes this tote even easier to haul from destination to destination.

Pros: Made from real leather; Zip top closure; Comes in 10 colors.

Cons: Unlined.

Customer review: "I am in love with my violet cross body tote! The quality is amazing and I could just fondle that gorgeous leather all day. I use the shoulder straps and I love having the zipper for added security. This is a great size for an everyday bag for me." — Portland Leather Goods

Best Padded Crossbody Bag for Travel

Calia Women's Quilted Travel Tote

In case you didn't know, puffer bags are trending hard this season, so why not upgrade your travel bag to fit the times? Not only is this big tote stylish, but it's also functional enough for your next big trip. You can fit a water bottle, laptop, and a pair of shoes in the roomy interior, plus there's a zipper exterior pocket for quick access.

Pros: Under $100; Adjustable and removable crossbody strap; Includes a water bottle pocket and padded laptop sleeve; Zip top closure; Padded shoulder straps.

Cons: Reviewers note the inner lining is not durable.

Customer review: "Bought this to use as a carryon for travel. Lightweight and comfortable shoulder straps." — Calia

Best Personalized Crossbody Bag for Travel

Leatherology Meadow Double Zip Camera Bag

A camera-style bag may be simple, but it's an incredibly effective carry-all when it comes to travel. Leatherology's double zip camera bag is just the right size to hold all of your essentials without adding any extra bulk. With two zippered compartments, you can easily keep your things organized, plus the really important things like your passport and ID will be extra secure in the internal zipper pocket. The best feature of this bag, though, is that it comes in 17(!!) different colors including neutrals, pretty pastels, and croc-embossed leather, and has the option for personalization.

Pros: Comes in 17 colors; Can be personalized; Zip top closure; Made from real leather;

Cons: Can't hold large items.

Customer review: "I got this bag for traveling on my honeymoon and I did the trapunto monogram with my new married initials and this bag was worth every penny. It held so much and yet was compact, traveled well. It’s durable yet soft and supple! I love this bag so so much for traveling and just being on the go and I will be back for more!" — Leatherology

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (13)Best Durable Crossbody Bag for Travel

Dagne Dover Micah Neoprene Crossbody Bag

Neoprene, AKA the fabric used in scuba gear, may not be the first material you think of to use in a bag, but it has some seriously good uses. First off, it's waterproof so whether you're heading to a tropical location or get caught in the rain, your things will be well protected. It's also resistant against tears or cuts, plus it's machine washable. Besides the killer fabric on this bag, it's got a ton of compartments for all of your things and a nice wide shoulder strap to keep you comfy even on the longest of travel days.

Pros: Comes in five colors; Adjustable shoulder strap; Zip top closure; Has multiple interior pockets.

Cons: Some reviewers note the shoulder strap is too short.

Customer review: "The perfect crossbody for travel or everyday. I bought it for a recent trip and it was exactly what I wanted. The bag was big enough to fit sunglasses, camera, wallet, and the front pocket was perfect for chapstick, keys, and other small travel items. The storm (navy) color is beautiful, also bought the large Landon carryall duffle to match." — Nordstrom

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (14)Best Leather Crossbody Bag for Travel

Cuyana Double Loop Bag

A travel bag doesn't have to sacrifice style to get the job done. Prime example: Cuyana's Double Loop Bag. The unique double loop design of the shoulder strap adds a chic touch to this bag, and if you opt for this poppy red shade, it's even more of a statement. Another added bonus is the adjustable shoulder strap—in just a snap, you can turn this bag from a crossbody to a shoulder bag, meaning it can take you from day to night in seconds.

Pros: Made from real leather; Adjustable shoulder strap; Comes in six colors.

Cons: No zip top closure.

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (15)Best Everyday Crossbody Bag for Travel

Madewell The Transport Shoulder Crossbody Bag

Madewell's Transport Tote is one of our favorite leather totes of all time, so it should come as no surprise that we love the crossbody version as well. It's made from soft leather that reviewers say looks and feels luxurious. The interior is roomier than you may think and is specially designed to hold at least a tablet, pouch, and water bottle. Another great feature is the double set of straps. Depending on your desired look and your plans, you can switch up this bag from a crossbody to a shoulder bag to fit your needs.

Pros: Zip top closure; Made from real leather; Includes two adjustable and removable shoulder straps; Comes in four colors.

Cons: Some reviewers note the shoulder strap is too long.

Customer review: "I live in a city and walk alot and can't say enough about this bag. It's big enough for a reusable bag, small umbrella, bottle of water. I have it in black and want to buy the camel or green for the spring/summer. LOVE!" —Madewell

Best Mini Crossbody Bag for Travel

Bandolier Dillon Bag

If you're the type of person that prefers to travel light, this crossbody bag is right up your alley. It may be small, but it holds your travel essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and passport securely and in style. And because your phone is likely what you reach for most, you can keep it handy with an easy-to-reach for pocket. Reviewers say the quality of the leather is especially good, making the bag look and feel extra luxurious.

Pros: Zip top closure; Includes handy pocket for phone; Made from real leather.

Cons: Can't fit larger items.

Customer review: "I am in LOVE! It’s everything I wanted :) it’s so soft and spacious for essentials and has the perfect slot for your phone :)" — Bandolier

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (17)Best Classic Crossbody Bag for Travel

Kate Spade New York Medium Roulette Pebble Leather Crossbody Bag

Sometimes simple is better, as made clear in this Kate Spade crossbody bag. With a sleek, classic design, this bag suits just about everyone's style and will go with nearly everything in your closet. It's not too big or not too small so you can easily fit your travel essentials comfortably, plus the zip top closure and inner zipper pocket keeps them secure. While you can't go wrong with black, we love this pale blue for a parred-down pop of color, or go even punchier with a bright Barbie pink.

Pros: Zip top closure; Interior zipper pocket; Adjustable shoulder strap; Comes in three colors.

Cons: Some reviewers note that the hardware on the shoulder strap squeaks.

Customer review: "Nice size and leather not too stiff. Nice outer pocket for cell. Nice guitar type strap looks on trend. Light blue should go with a lot of outfits. Nice style!" — Nordstrom

Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (18)Best Trendy Crossbody Bag for Travel

JW PEI Women's Mini Flap Crossbody

Speaking from personal experience, JW PEI bags are of crazy good quality for their price point. If you're looking for a trendier piece to take with you on your travels, might I suggest the brand's Mini Flap Crossbody? Available in 19 different colorways including this dark brown (perfect for fall, by the way) and fun shades like metallic silver and bright pink, there's a shade for every style. While this bag doesn't have a zip closure, it does close with a magnetic button and has an interior zipper pocket for your most precious items.

Pros: Under $100; Comes in 19 colors; Interior zipper pocket.

Cons: No zip top closure; Shoulder strap is not adjustable.

Customer review: "Super cute bag with plenty of room for the essentials. Also fits my iPhone perfectly. I like that it stays closed as well, things don’t fall out." — Amazon

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Your Next Vacation Is Crying Out for a Crossbody Travel Purse (19)

Brooke Knappenberger

Associate Commerce Editor

Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes across the board from fashion and beauty to books and celebrities. As a pop culture junkie, Brooke obsessively consumes and writes about the latest movie releases, streaming TV shows, and celebrity scandals. She has over three years of experience writing on fashion, beauty, and entertainment and her work has appeared on Looper, NickiSwift, The Sun US, and Vox Magazine of Columbia, Missouri. Brooke obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism with an emphasis on Magazine Editing and has a minor in Textile and Apparel Management.

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