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The 17 Best Travel Purses of 2024 for the Stylish Jetsetter, Tested & Reviewed

Including crossbody bags, shoulder bags, and RFID-protected options.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

What to keep in mind, your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Alli Waataja

Your favorite shoulder purse might be perfect for brunch or wearing out for drinks with friends — but would you take it on a plane? The answer might be “no,” because while aesthetically pleasing, not all purses have enough useful features to work well in transit.

“For me, a great travel purse has a balance of organization, durability, and design ,” says travel creator and digital storyteller, Alexa Moore , who has traveled to 49 countries. “Travel takes you often through different environments, from sightseeing in a quaint city to rushing through an airport, and everything in between,” which is why having something that can withstand it all is important. And this is not to be mistaken with a travel bag , which is slightly bigger and can hold a few outfits. It’s all about purses here, namely ones vetted by editors and travel experts . Find the best in show here and add one to your cart ahead of your summer holiday.

Best Overall

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Dagne Dover

What We Love: It’s durable, organized, and sold in five sizes, so if you want to match your purse to your duffel, you can.

What We Don’t Love: The neoprene needs to be reshaped if you wash it.

We’re big fans of Dagne Dover at InStyle, having written about the backpacks and weekend bags many times over. So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the brand tops this list, too. Even though the viral Landon bag comes in five sizes (and eight colors), for a purse, we recommend going for the XS or S sizes because it will hold all your essentials — and work as a personal item on the plane — without being too cumbersome. It can be carried by its top handles or adjustable, detachable crossbody strap , giving you that much-needed versatility while on the go. Both sizes offer plenty of space with organization capabilities and an exterior pocket for storing your phone; however, the small size might be a touch more useful because it specifically features an added tablet sleeve, a large interior zip pocket, a mesh pocket on each end of the interior, and a detachable key leash connected to an included Air Mesh Pouch — all of which proved necessary when traveling.

Like all of the Dagne Dover products, the neoprene, while durable, still needs to be reshaped if you plan to wash it, and if not stored properly, it can gain permanent wrinkles in the fabric. And if you need a little less room, say, for a quick weekend flight or a road trip, New York City-based fashion stylist Audree Kate López , also recommends The Dagne Dover Micah Crossbody , which is a more traditional purse silhouette and more slender.

Material: Neoprene | Dimensions: 14 (W) x 9 (H) x 4.5 (D) inches | Colors:  4

Best Budget

Lands' end all purpose messenger bag.

What We Love: There’s a padded laptop sleeve in the interior.

What We Don’t Love: The material felt a little thin.

Traveling is already expensive as is, so we completely understand if you want to save where you can. We originally tested this bag for our crossbody bags story and quickly learned it doubles as a great traveling companion. The main compartment closes completely with a zip but opens up wide so it’s easy to pack . Inside there was a padded laptop pocket with a velcro security strap. On the exterior two pockets, we kept some of our essentials, but the simple snap-button closure made us worry sometimes for their security. The bag was lightweight and easy to carry around, particularly due to its cushioned shoulder strap. It’s not the most stylish option of them all, but it has plenty of features and comes with an affordable price tag.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 14.75 (W) x 11 (H) x 5.5 (D) inches | Colors:  1

InStyle / Jhett Thompson

Cuyana Sling Bag

What We Love: It’s made of recycled plastic bottles.

What We Don’t Love: There isn’t a ton of structure to the bag.

If you’re only allowed two personal items on the plane, you may as well get something large enough to fit a few vacation outfits. We tested this sling bag by stuffing it with a bunch of essentials, and it kept giving way to more space and consuming whatever we placed into it. A jacket was easily folded into the pouch alongside our laptop and the bag was still able to fully zip . Because the canvas material was so lightweight (not to be mistaken with flimsy, quite to the contrary it was very strong ), no matter how much we stuffed into the bag it didn’t weigh us down. We love that it’s knitted from recycled landfill plastic as well.

Material: Global recycle standard-certifies landfill plastic | Dimensions: 12.5 (W) x 18 (H) x 6 (D) inches | Colors:  2

Best Water-Resistant

The north face base camp voyager.

What We Love: The exterior is abrasion-resistant, on top of water-resistant.

What We Don’t Love: It’s not particularly stylish.

Rain or shine, you want to go sightseeing in your new town. If you’re carrying around some valuables, it’s important to keep them dry and safe while on the move. Enter this Base Camp messenger bag. It has a water and abrasion-resistant exterior that protects not just what’s inside, but the outside from looking worn down. We found the strap to be very wide and distributed the weight equally on our shoulders. It had just the right amount of compartments that allowed us to organize without feeling overwhelmed by the pocket options. We especially loved the key strap!

Material: Recycled polyester tarpaulin | Dimensions: 16.5 (W) x 10.8 (H) x 4.5 (D) inches | Colors:  4

Best for Organization

Bellroy tokyo work bag.

Backcountry

What We Love: There’s even a little water bottle holder on the side.

What We Don’t Love: It’s not water-resistant.

Anyone privy to losing all their stuff in the black hole that is their purse will benefit from this work bag. While not technically a purse, the Tokyo Work Bag was too good of a travel bag that we had to include it here. There was a compartment for absolutely all our needs , including a padded laptop sleeve, tablet slip, pockets for notepads and sunglasses, and a water bottle holder on the exterior. If we needed to find something, it never took more than three seconds to do so. We continued to be impressed with the capacity and comfort of this bag, making it an excellent travel companion.

Material: Recycled polyester | Dimensions: 17.3 (W) x 14.2 (H) x 6.3 (D) inches | Colors:  3

Best Splurge

Milaner woven handbag.

What We Love: It has the design and quality of a designer bag but for a fraction of the price.

What We Don’t Love: The snap closure feels a little less safe during travels.

If you want the quality of a designer leather bag but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars, we found this option to be equal in style and luxury but for a fourth of the price . The woven bag (which is both chic and trending right now) is handcrafted in Italy using genuine leather. The interior features a deliciously soft suede which not only looks opulent but protects our belongings from scratches as well. We’ve used this bag as a personal item to Palm Springs and got an incredible amount of use out of it. Because it carried just about anything including laptops, books, cameras, change of clothes, and all our other essentials, it functioned both as a carry-on bag and a sight-seeing purse. Unfortunately, it has a snap closure instead of a zippered closure, which makes things feel slightly less secure during trips. But if you’re confident in your ability to keep everything safe, the bag is well worth the splurge.

Material: Leather | Dimensions: 20 (W) x 14 (H) x 3 (D) inches | Colors:  9

Best for International Travel

Athleta all about crossbody.

What We Love: The crescent shape is spacious and comfortable to carry under your arm for safe-keeping while traveling abroad.

What We Don’t Love: It has no outside pockets.

When we traveled internationally, we turned to this Athleta crossbody bag. Its lightweight nature made it easy to move through busy airports and unfamiliar cities without weighing us down. “This is a fanny pack meets crossbody — it’s spacious, close to your body (so it’s no-fuss while walking around) and lightweight, so you can roll or fold it into luggage,” López says. The bag, which is made in part with recycled water bottles and comes in three versatile neutrals, features a wide adjustable strap, a key leash, and a spacious interior to easily store a phone, wallet, passport, hotel key, and more.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: ​​12.25 (W) x 7.5 (H) x 4 (D) inches | Colors:  3

Best Backpack

Paravel mini fold-up backpack.

What We Love: The lightweight backpack is made sustainably using water-resistant nylon.

What We Don’t Love: It costs extra to get it customized.

You would think just any backpack would do for travel, and then you try this option from Paravel and realize you’ve been mistaken all along. This backpack is made of ultra-lightweight durable nylon that not only feels as light as a feather but has a water-resistant finish to it. So even if you’re schlepping your way through the rain to your Airbnb, you don’t have to worry about your essentials getting soiled. On top of that, it comes with a convenient little pouch that you can fold the backpack into, making it extremely easy to transport when not in use. It hardly takes up any space, so you could even keep the pouch in your purse if you know you’ll need an extra bag (say for groceries) while out and about. It fits an impressive amount of items into the bag, including a change of clothes, water bottles, passports, and more. The fact that you can customize it to include your initials is just the icing on the cake, although it will cost you an extra few dollars.

Material: Recycled plastic bottled nylon | Dimensions: 10 (W) x 12 (H) x 6 (D) inches | Colors: 6

Best Anti-Theft

Arden cove crissy full crossbody.

What We Love: The waterproof bag not only has a lot of room for essentials, but an RFID-blocking wallet built-in and locking zippers for additional security.

What We Don’t Love: The straps feel flimsy and thin.

If you’re super worried about being pick-pocketed (or losing anything), we recommend the Arden Cove Crissy Full Crossbody. The waterproof, slash-proof bag is designed with a large main zip compartment with a smaller front zip compartment. The main compartment contains two additional slip pockets and a key ring for easy organization, while the smaller one offers a built-in wallet made of RFID-blocking material, which accommodates eight cards and a few bills. Additionally, the zippers on this bag lock together, so nobody will be able to slyly steal your belongings. It comes in eight different colors, including neutrals and some punchy jewel tones.

Material: Waterproof nylon | Dimensions: 8.5 (W) x 6.5 (H) x 3.5 (D) inches | Colors:  8

Nomatic Navigator Sling

What We Love: There is anti-theft protection on it with ample amounts of organizational capabilities.

What We Don’t Love: The hard shell makes it less flexible and hard to pack when not in use.

We were incredibly impressed with this thoughtfully designed sling bag. This was truly made with the traveler in mind, with anti-theft protection , organizational features, and a water-repellent exterior . There was ample space, pockets, and hidden slits to carry just about everything we could need on a day out, including our 17-inch tablet, makeup, sanitizers, wallets, passports, and keys (in the keyholder). There’s even a water bottle holder on the exterior of the bag, which turned out to be an appreciated feature that allowed us to maximize the space inside the bag. There’s an RFID front card pocket which, although unlikely, is designed to protect our contactless credit cards from being accessed. And thanks to the charging cable hole, we could charge our electronics while on the go and still use our devices.

Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 9 (W) x 13.5 (H) x 4 (D) inches | Colors:  2

InStyle / Hang Pham

Best Belt Bag

Calpak luka belt bag.

What We Love: It’s spacious, organized, and sold in a bunch of colors.

What We Don’t Love: The lighter colors stain easily.

InStyle contributor Rebecca Norris owns this belt bag in six colors — that’s how much she loves and uses it. Most recently, it accompanied her on a 12-day trip through Europe, allowing her to zip through the airport and explore new cities without any trouble. But at home, she still uses it for casual errands, shopping trips, and gym seshes, so trust us, it’ll be useful even when not in transit.

We appreciate how roomy it is compared to other belt bags. The spacious bag features a trendy puffy exterior with a back zip pocket that can sit on our chest or waist. Inside, there’s a front mesh zip pocket and a back opaque zip pocket, which makes grouping items a cinch. The bag is sold in 15 colors, as well as a new miniature size if you prefer something a bit smaller (and something more in line with the often sold-out Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag.) Both sizes, though, work with the Luka key pouch, an additional accessory that clips onto the band for a smidge more storage — we recommend it for items that get easily lost in a purse or you wouldn’t want to be mixed with other items (i.e. dog treats). Just be careful with the lighter colors as they tend to stain easily.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 11 (W) x 5.5 (H) x 3.5 (D) inches | Colors: 15

InStyle / Taylor Calta

Béis East To West Tote

What We Love: There are ample amounts of compartments for perfect organization.

What We Don’t Love: The top zip doesn’t close all the way.

The Beis East to West Tote was our favorite travel tote in our tote bag roundup , so it only makes sense to reiterate all the reasons why we loved it here. This bag was intentionally designed for the aesthetically inclined traveler. We were met with every compartment we could want without it being overwhelming — a laptop sleeve, passport slot, water bottle socket, and even a key strap helped to keep everything organized. And still, there was enough space in the middle for spare clothes, snacks, books, and more.

We could carry it on the top handle or the detachable shoulder strap, but even more impressive was the sleeve intended for suitcase handles. We simply plopped the bag on top of our suitcase and it remained flush against the handle without falling off.

Material: Nylon, recycled polyester | Dimensions: 17.13 (W) x 14.17 (H) x 9.06 (D) inches | Colors:  2

Best Shoulder Bag

Polène numéro dix.

What We Love: You can wear it as a shoulder or crossbody bag.

What We Don’t Love: The hard cover makes it more difficult to pack in suitcases.

We’re going to take a wild guess here and assume you’d like to travel in style, in which case we recommend this gorgeous shoulder bag from Polène. The Parisian label has become somewhat of a superstar on social media, thanks to its luxurious materials (in this case, Italian textured calf leather) and designs. Author of this roundup Bianca Kratky owns this bag and has been using it non-stop for adventures where she needs to carry her essentials, keep her hands free, and look chic. Despite its crescent shape and smaller size, the bag fits an impressive number of items in it. Valuables like phones, wallets, AirPods, keys, chapstick, and hand cream fit in like a dream. She can wear it over the shoulder, or extend the strap to become a crossbody bag. While its hard cover makes it a little more difficult to pack, Kratky’s tip is to stuff it with socks and underwear before placing it in the suitcase.

Material: Italian pebbled calf leather | Dimensions: 9.4 (W) x 7.9 (H) x 3 (D) inches | Colors: 17

Best for Work

Everlane luxe italian leather tote.

What We Love: The sleek Italian leather still looks luxurious after three years of use.

What We Don’t Love: The top can’t be closed.

We’ve used this tote for the office as well as on business trips because its sleek exterior and spacious interior make it ideal for such occasions. And of course, knowing that style icon Meghan Markle is out there somewhere carrying the same bag makes us feel pretty cool. It’s made of smooth Italian leather and features one slip pocket on the interior. It’s big enough to fit our 15-inch laptop, a sweater, books, snacks, a toiletry bag , and more , which is why it’s been so useful during our long hauls across the country. It’s weathered the last three years pretty well, despite our not-so-gentle handling.

Material: Italian leather | Dimensions: 20.8 (W) x 12.8 (H) x 7 (D) inches | Colors:  3

Best Crossbody

Fossil carlie leather satchel bag.

What We Love: It zips completely closed and fits an impressive amount of items in.

What We Don’t Love: When the bag isn’t full, the shape isn’t as rectangular and folds in softly.

Kratky’s first big-girl purchase was this bag from Fossil (or at least an earlier version of it from six years ago). She intended it as her travel bag while she rucksacked her way around the world. For 365 days, this was the bag she used to carry her passport, camera, snacks, tickets, phone, and notepad . It was ideal because it came with both a top handle and a crossbody strap , making it cute for strolls into cities and practical when her hands needed to be free.

It closes completely with a zip , making it safe from any theft. The bag opens up impressively wide as well — Kratky never had to leave anything behind as everything always miraculously fit. When it’s half empty, however, the bag looks less rectangular, collapsing into itself a little. Because the leather weathered all the hustle and bustle so well, it's still in great condition. She’s keeping it to hand down to her children one day, when they’re ready to go off and explore the world, too.

Material: Leather, polyurethane | Dimensions: 10 (W) x 8 ( H) x 5.5 (D) inches | Colors:  2

Best Convertible

We the free soho convertible sling.

Free People

What We Love: It has various compartments and can be worn as a sling or backpack. 

What We Don’t Love: The non-traditional shape might be a bit oblong for larger items.

While many bags these days are convertible from crossbody to shoulder iterations, fewer can be worn as a sling and a backpack. But that’s exactly what this rugged leather convertible sling from Free People can do. “I love the zippered details and all the color options,” says travel content creator Alli Talley . But aside from looks, the bag has three compartments , so you can easily keep your items organized. The vaguely triangular shape might make storing larger items inside a bit more challenging, but we promise it is still a roomy bag — and it allows you to easily go hands-free.

Material: Leather | Dimensions: 10 (W) x 14 (H) x 5.5 (D) inches | Colors:  7

Best Lightweight

Baggu fanny pack.

What We Love: Despite how lightweight it is, it’s extremely durable.

What We Don’t Love: The strap is a little slim, and a bigger version would have felt more secure on the body.

We’ve tested a bunch of bags from Baggu thus far, and their materials always impress us with how durable yet lightweight they are. This one has the bonus of being extremely spacious, despite its compact size. Not unlike a Mary Poppins bag, you can keep placing items in it and it always seems to be able to take in more, be it books, notepads, wallets, snacks, makeup, chapstick, and more. The fanny pack can be worn across the hips, chest, and over your shoulders, all of which leave your hands free for exploration.

Material: Nylon, recycled nylon | Dimensions: 8 (W) x 6.5 (H) x 2 (D) inches | Colors: 16

Our editors evaluated their go-to bags on ease of use, transportability, safety, compartmentalization, and quality of material . To cover all of our bases, our team also called in a variety of internet-popular bags for testing. Bags with thoughtful design features, like a waterproof exterior or a packing pouch, received high remarks.

• Size: Purses come in all shapes and sizes, and if you need to carry a lot of items while traveling, a clutch isn't going to work. With this in mind, it’s important to consider your essentials while traveling to determine what size works best for you. If you plan on carrying no more than your phone, wallet, and keys, a smaller bag works great. Anything more, like a laptop or water bottle, a larger silhouette makes more sense. No matter what your needs, López says to avoid micro bags, as they’re just not realistic while traveling.
• Material: The material of your travel purse can determine two things: how durable it is and how formal it looks. Generally speaking, Moore says that leather is the most durable — and it’s arguably the most professional in appearance, too, hence why we love the Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote and the Polène Numero Dix bags. She also recommends nylon, which is renowned for its weather-resistant finish. “Leather or nylon will always fare best,” she assures us. That’s because in addition to being strong materials, they’re harder to scuff or stain, and they’re easy to wipe down.
• Functionality: We love a pretty purse but when traveling, function is of the utmost importance. “As far as design, a good travel purse is something crossbody — it allows you to keep the bag close to your body and makes it far more difficult to be taken off,” Moore says. But that’s not all it takes to be a travel-friendly bag in her book. “A great travel bag has organization, specifically a great pocket system,” she says. “One of my big travel tips is to never have all of your important or high-value items in the same bag, or even in the same pocket. I like to keep my phone in one compartment of my bag, and money and IDs in different pockets.” Re-touching on the crossbody feature, it’s not just great for security’s sake. “A crossbody will help with weight distribution on your shoulders during long travel days,” López says. This makes for more comfortable wear and a smoother, more positive travel experience overall. For Talley, comfort and pockets, in addition to a low-maintenance material, are important factors. “Those long-haul travel days can be brutal — the last thing you want is an uncomfortable purse that's always falling off your shoulders or giving you back pain," she says. As a mom of two active toddlers, she uses her bag's pockets for snacks, sunscreen, pacifiers, and chapsticks. A full zipper close is always a bonus. It secures your items when storing the bag under the seat in front of you.

Do I need to use an anti-theft purse while traveling?

As many pick-pocketing horror stories as there are swirling around social media, Moore says that anti-theft purses are great but not necessary. “I think it’s better to know how to protect your purse and belongings no matter the bag you decide to bring,” she says because “a lot of the anti-theft bags are just not the most attractive,” she admits. Doing things like not leaving your purse on the back of the chair, on the seat next to you, or at a table — especially in situations where you’re easily distracted, like a restaurant or nightclub.” She says it’s also important to be mindful of how you’re carrying your bag. While it may be more comfortable to sling it over your shoulder, on your back, or behind your hip, keep a purse tucked under your arm or held closely to your body in front. Even just choosing something that zips will help you avoid getting pick-pocketed since it makes getting into your bag more challenging.

Is a travel purse considered a personal item while flying?

Generally speaking, a purse is often considered an item in itself. If you’re not checking a bag especially, it’s important to find a silhouette that can easily fit into a larger personal item (not your carry-on), to maximize your packing imprint.

Still, it depends on the airline and who’s working the desk when you start to board. “I travel with both a backpack and a purse/crossbody bag on every trip, and I’m not usually stopped on standard airlines like Delta or United for having too many personal items,” Moore shares. “If I’m flying one of those budget airlines that are pretty strict, my little secret is ditching traveling with a handbag altogether and rather opting for a cute crossbody sling bag. Those bags lay flat against your body, and are rarely seen as ‘extra baggage.’"

Bianca Kratky is a commerce writer with three years of experience covering fashion and beauty. She’s also an avid traveler, having wandered around the world by herself for a year, and therefore knows a thing or two about smart packing. Rebecca Norris has covered women’s lifestyle content for the past 10 years. For this roundup, they spoke to the below experts.

• Audree Kate López is a New York City-based fashion stylist.  
• Alexa Moore is a travel content creator.
• Alli Talley is a travel content creator and owner of the account @traveling_newlyweds .

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Ready, Set, Jet: Shop the Season’s Most-Coveted Travel Bags

By Nicole Kliest and Alexis Bennett Parker

All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.

You’ve booked the flight, scouted the hotel, and assembled a packing list of your very best vacation-ready essentials . But what to put them in? The best travel bags that complement your OOO aesthetic are among the most important investments for those with a penchant for stylish escapes.

The Designer Travel Bag Shopping List

• The Durable Hero: Longchamp Le Pliage 18" travel bag , $160
• The Cool Canvas: Hereu Cala canvas tote bag , $485
• The Timeless Option: Staud Allora tote , $495
• The Luxe Logo Bag: Gucci Jackie 1961 large duffle bag , $3,850
• The Modern Marvel: Saint Laurent chain embellished weekend bag , $3,600
• The Minimalist Magic: Khaite Perre weekender , $3,400
• The Woven Warrior: Bottega Veneta Intrecciato duffle bag , $5,400
• The Investment Piece: The Row George leather & canvas duffel , $6,190
• The Foldable Find: Loewe Puzzle fold tote , $4,250

The season’s very best options check off all the boxes of a luxuriously-crafted bag that can weather even the most far-flung adventures. Saint Laurent’s giant quilted duffle remains a celebrity favorite (Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Olivia Wilde are fans), while Prada’s geometric-pattern trunk will feel exquisite slung over your shoulder en route to somewhere beautiful. And there’s no denying the enduring appeal of The Row’s sleek, streamlined black leather tote bag.

If you’re heading somewhere close to home, an oversized tote might feel more appropriate—we love Totême’s leather-trimmed canvas option for this. And for a budget-friendly pick, Alex Mill’s vintage-inspired canvas bag (aptly named “the perfect weekend tote”) is always a favorite. From luxe leather duffels to timeless utilitarian silhouettes, shop 28 of the season’s best travel bags ahead.

Saint Laurent

chain embellished weekend bag

NET-A-PORTER

NEIMAN MARCUS

Perre weekender

Cala canvas tote bag

BERGDORF GOODMAN

Puzzle fold tote

George leather & canvas duffel

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

Jackie 1961 large duffle bag

Louis Vuitton

Keepall 55 bag

Brunello Cucinelli

canvas striped duffel bag

Weekend XL leather-trimmed suede tote

Hunting Season

The Weekender bag

OVER THE MOON

Le Pliage 18" travel bag

ES giant YSL travel bag

Caramella Transformable stripe duffle tote bag

Bottega Veneta

Intrecciato duffle

BOTTEGA VENETA

Allora snake-effect trimmed textured-leather tote

large Book tote

Main Line canvas duffel bag

IVY striped tote bag

Gotham duffle bag

large travel bag

Leatherology

Kessler large duffle

LEATHEROLOGY

15 BEST Travel Purses for Savvy & Stylish Travelers in 2024

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The best travel purse is the Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag if theft prevention is your highest priority or the Lo & Sons Pearl if you need something a little more versatile and stylish. The Travelon messenger bag has locking zippers and tons of organizational pockets. The lightweight Pearl crossbody bag has zippered compartments and transforms into a clutch for dinners out. I’ve been testing the Pearl for about three months now and it has become a great everyday purse for my travels.

You’ll rarely catch me on the road without a purse or backpack. They’re essential for carrying valuables and staying organized. 

But there are differences between travel purses and everyday purses.

When traveling, you’ll carry extra items like your passport, laptop, and camera (aka valuables that you should keep a tight grip on!). 

And the right travel purses will help you do exactly that.

The best purses for travel are versatile, secure, and comfortable. Some are anti-theft bags, and others double as carry-on luggage when you’re flying.

As a regular traveler who has tested out a lot of purses over the years, I wrote this article to help you find the best purses for travel in every category–from stylish crossbody bags to the best anti-theft purse.

By the end, you’ll know what to consider when choosing the perfect travel purse for you.

Short on time? Here’s a quick look at the top 15 travel purses.

Table of Contents

#1 Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote

Best Stylish Travel Purse

Size: 13.5 x 18 x 5.75” Weight: 1.8 lbs Features: Made from LWG environmentally-friendly tanned leather, zipper top, and zippered interior pocket

The best purses for travel are more than practical, they make you feel glamorous.

Boasting luxurious soft leather, the Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote is a simple slim tote bag. 

This stylish travel purse is great for sightseeing because it holds everything you can possibly need from morning to evening.

The main compartment is spacious and you can even add a Tote Organization Insert for more interior pockets.

If you haven’t seen a pickpocket in action, search it on YouTube. The zipper on this tote is essential for detouring thieves.

Additionally, I feel good buying from Cuyana because they don’t feed the unsustainable fast-fashion industry.

Their durable and classic designs look good year after year.

• Stylish no matter the season
• More secure than the average open-top tote bag
• Built to last
• Only one internal pocket unless you buy the additional tote organizer

#2 Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 

Best Belt Bag

Size: 7.5″ x 2″ x 5″ Weight: 6.7 oz Features: Front zippered pocket, an internal mesh pocket, and a hidden external pocket, adjustable strap, large buckle

Belt bags, aka fanny packs, are hot stuff right now, and the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag functions as a cute travel sling purse or waist bag.

It’s as well-made as any of Lululemon’s other beloved activewear products, which isn’t surprising with the quality. of the Lululemon brand.

One of my favorite features of this bag is the exterior pocket hidden on the backside, which is very important for travel bags.

This means you can easily zip your phone in for easy access without exposing your wallet. 

Meanwhile, the inside mesh pocket is perfect for organizing just the essentials: sunglasses, lip balm, and keys.

Looking for more options? Read our guide to the best hiking fanny packs .

• Best lightweight travel purse
• A stylish and sporty option for touring cities or hiking
• You can wear it in front so your possessions are within view at all times
• Versatile as a day bag, but not as nice for a fancy dinner

#3 Away Packable Carryall

Best Purse for Carry-On Travel

Size: 15″ x 19.7″ x 9″ (6.3” x 4.3” x 2.4” when rolled up) Weight: 0.55 lbs Features: Zipper closure, spacious interior, and made from recycled nylon

Don’t be that person on your next flight who spills the contents of their bag in the middle of the aisle.

Not only is it embarrassing and frustrating, but it’s a good way to lose something.

That’s why it’s essential to have a carry-on purse or tote that zips closed like the Away Packable Carryall .

Its long handle offers comfortable shoulder carrying or holding on top of your roller bag.

And the trolly sleeve and roomy interior easily make this Away bag the best handbag for flying.

It fits a change of clothes, notebooks, a tablet for watching movies, and snacks.

I also always carry a sleeping eye mask and earplugs while traveling, which fit nicely into the interior zip pocket. 

Because it zips closed, I can slip it under a seat or into an overhead bin. Plus, its clean design will never go out of fashion.

• Returnable within 100 days
• Rolls into a small pouch when not in use
• More of a large travel tote
• Trolly sleeve
• Made of recycled nylon
• Not as much structure as a traditional purse

#4 Lo & Sons Pearl

Best Small Crossbody Travel Purse

Size: 7.75” x 9.5” x 3” Weight: 0.9 lbs Features: Lightweight, clutch or crossbody design, internal zippered compartments, and has a key leash

Ready for your small purse dreams to come true?

The Lo & Sons Pearl has the internal space of a Marry Poppins bag but is just the right size for lightweight travel days.

The Pearl also has two external zippered compartments and a smaller zippered pocket in the center. 

I love this bag for its plentiful, yet uncomplicated organization. It’s one of my favorite travel purses.

It comes in Saffiano leather, Nappa leather, and plant-based Cactus leather. And there are several colors to choose between.

But what really makes the Pearl the best small travel purse, is its versatility. It transforms from a crossbody purse to a clutch. Small but mighty!

Alternatively, you might also like the Lo & Sons Waverly 2 , which is a little smaller and comes with a waist belt to transform into a belt bag.

• Slim but has plenty of space
• Detachable crossbody strap and clutch strap
• Available in leather or plant-based vegan leather
• Sleek and stylish
• Plastic-free, metal hardware!
• Doesn’t fit big wallets
• Not as secure as travel purses with locking zippers

#5 Longchamp Pliage Original

Best Travel Purse for Europe

Size: 11” x 10.4” x 6.1” Weight: 7.76 oz Features: Foldable, leather trim, and has a zipper closure

The Longchamp Pliage Original is a leading brand from Paris that will help you blend in among fashionable Europeans.

A French girl in my self-defense class in Italy actually carried this Longchamp tote as her study abroad purse.

It’s no wonder the Longchamp Pliage has a cult following in travel circles–it folds flat for easy packing. 

Plus, it has a genuine leather handle and a water-resistant coated canvas body with leather trim. 

Set this baby down on the damp ground at a sidewalk cafe without worrying about your book getting wet inside.

Overall, this tote offers a high-end look, zips closed, and wipes clean for day-to-day freshness while traveling.

• Stylish purse alternative to a generic canvas bag
• Water-resistant
• Only two organizational pockets inside

#6 Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Cx Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack

Best Convertible Travel Purse Backpack

Size: 8.9” x 9.8” x 4.3” (purse mode); 13.9” x 9.8” x 4.3” (backpack mode)  Weight: 0.99 lbs Features: Expands from a purse to a backpack, locking zipper, and RFID-blocking material

The genius Pacsafe Citysafe Cx Convertible Backpack is the lightest and most versatile bag you’ll find.

I’m always buying souvenirs, books, and snacks while sightseeing. This purse unfolds into a backpack large enough to carry all of your goodies. 

Plus, no worries if there’s a morning drizzle because it’s water-resistant.

Like Travelon bags, the Pacsafe Citysafe Convertible Backpack comes equipped with locking zippers and clips and slash-resistant fabric. 

It’s also made from RFID-blocking material that will protect your credit cards from being scanned.

• Anti-theft technology protects your credit cards
• Sustainable materials 
• A little bulky as a purse

#7 Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag

Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse

Size: 12.5” x 4” x 12” Weight: 15.5 oz Features: Locking clips and zippers, slash-resistant material, RFID-blocking pockets, compact, and it has an adjustable strap

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag is reasonably priced and features a minimalist design for any outfit.

However, what makes this the best crossbody travel purse is its safety features.

This Travelon anti-theft purse has a slash-resistant body constructed from an interlocking mesh barrier, so it can’t be cut open. 

And the adjustable shoulder strap has an internal anti-slash wire and a locking main compartment.

RFID stands for “radio frequency identification.” Some thieves try to scan your credit card information using special devices without ever reaching into your purse.

Not with this purse! The individual credit card slots feature RFID-blocking technology.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag can also lock to stationary objects, so no one can snatch it while you’re relaxing at a sidewalk cafe. 

As a purse for international travel, these features are particularly important. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of travel and be taken advantage of.

Travelon’s Mini version is another of the best purses for travel if you want something smaller. 

This anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag is the ultimate secure lightweight travel handbag to slip on before heading out for the night.

• Travelon anti-theft technology
• Lots of organizational pockets
• Reasonably priced
• Might not fit your aesthetic

#8 Cluci Backpack Purse

Best Travel Purse Backpack

Size: 13.5″ x 6.25″ x 14.25″ Weight: 2.09 lbs. Features: Hidden back zipper pocket, adjustable strap for crossbody-carry, and hand-carry straps

Some of the best purses are convertible backpacks. 

The Cluci Backpack Purse is one example–it can be worn on your back, carried by hand, or slung across your body.

Not to mention, Cluci backpacks are cute and stylish. It’s the kind of bag you’ll want to carry around every day.

In terms of organization, it has stretchy pockets on either side, fits a 14-inch computer, and has a small hidden zipper pocket on the back for securing your wallet.

Made of high-quality PU leather, this is one of the best purse backpacks because it looks super cute and can hold up under daily use.

But if this backpack doesn’t feel quite right for you, check out the famous Fjallraven Kanken Backpack (another favorite of mine).

Looking for more versatile backpack options? Read our guide to the best EDC backpacks .

• Durable and stylish
• Fits a 14-inch laptop and notebooks
• Convertible from a backpack to a purse
• Zippers don’t come with locks–but luggage locks are cheap!

#9 Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote Bag

Best Luxury Travel Purse

Size: 12.25″ x 8.75″ x 4.7″ Weight: 2.1 lbs Features: Zips closed, four internal pockets, fits up to a 13” laptop, and features a pebbled leather

This Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote Bag is elegant and sophisticated whether you’re on a work trip or out for coffee in a new city.

It works well as a travel bag because the top zips closed and it goes with any outfit. Plus, there’s an internal zipper compartment to keep your wallet extra safe. 

Inside, it’s easy to keep everything organized with the internal side pockets. It’s the perfect size for carrying the necessities plus a little more.

Just keep in mind, that it’s a shoulder bag, which isn’t optimal if you prefer crossbody-carrying.

There aren’t any external pockets, but sometimes that’s for the best since everything will be securely zipped inside.

This large zippered tote is made from premium leather for a refined style.

It will look right at home on your European vacation and add to the glamour of your travel pictures.

• Stylish all day and all night
• Zipper-protected middle pocket
• Made from quality materials
• Fits a small water bottle
• Can’t be worn across the body

#10 Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Best Purse with a Water Bottle Holder

Size: 9″ x 12.5″ x 3.5″ Weight: 10.4 ounces Features: Lockable clips and zippers, slash-resistant strap and outer panels, and a key leash with a light

The Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag has all of the same features as the other Travelon bag on this list, but it’s a little bigger and has a water bottle pouch. 

I highly recommend buying anti-theft travel purses or messenger bags if you expect to be in heavy crowds.

This Travelon anti-theft bag isn’t quite as fashionable as some of the other purses on this list.

However, the lockable zippers, adjustable shoulder strap, and slash-resistant material will reduce your risk of being pickpocketed. 

This messenger bag also has RFID-blocking material so that thieves can’t scan your credit cards while standing next to you.

• Anti-theft technology
• Water bottle holder
• Super durable messenger bag
• The mesh water bottle holder will tear if you overload it

#11 PINCNEL Backpack Purse

Best Waterproof Travel Purse

Size: 12.99” x 5.9” x 13.28” (medium); 13.78” x 6.69” x 14.17” (large) Weight: 1.3 lbs (medium); 1.54 lbs (large) Features: The main compartment unzips on the back instead of the top for anti-theft protection

The most unique feature of the PINCNEL Backpack Purse is its anti-theft design. 

Unlike traditional backpacks with a zippered front pocket, this pack opens from the back. You have to take it off to reach inside. 

This is important because no one can access your laptop or wallet while you’re standing in line…and we all know how many lines there are while traveling.

It’s also made from waterproof nylon and comes in two sizes and six colors. And it includes internal organizer pockets and a small zipper pouch.

PINCNEL stands apart from the standard anti-theft backpacks, which aren’t quite as cute.

With this rucksack, you’ll have peace of mind, making it a good bag for stylish and safe travel.

• Anti-theft design
• Very affordable without sacrificing style
• Max laptop size is 11 inches

#12 Lola Mae Quilted Crossbody Bag

Best Budget Travel Purse

Size: 8” x 2” x 6” Weight: 1.46 lbs Features: 30 colors to choose from, zips closed, and its internal organization

Being a broke backpacker doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice style. 

The Lola Mae Quilted Crossbody Bag is cute and affordable for every budget-conscious jet-setter.

For the price, you obviously aren’t getting Louis Vuitton leather, but it’s still made from good quality materials and wipes clean. 

This is also the perfect Goldilocks crossbody bag: not too big and not too small. 

While wearing it, you can easily adjust the crossbody shoulder strap to keep your valuables close and secure in the zippered pocket. 

• Very affordable
• Looks high fashion
• Crossbody design
• Versatile size that’s not too big or small
• No locking compartments
• Doesn’t come with the clutch strap

#13 Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bag

Best Durable Travel Purse

Size: 9” x 13.5” x 5” Weight: 1 lb Features: Multiple pockets inside and out, trolly sleeve, water bottle holder, and it comes in unique prints

Crossbody purses feature a comfortable design, sitting against your hip or under your arm and offering automatic theft protection.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is a hobo-style crossbody purse built for travelers and anyone who wants an ergonomic purse to carry everything in one place.

Baggallini is a trusted brand known for its durability. This purse is also machine washable, which boosts its longevity by looking fresh again and again.

Additionally, the Everywhere Bag slides onto a luggage handle and features an RFID-blocking lining to protect your credit cards from hackers.

And the exterior pockets are convenient for less important items like granola bars and hand sanitizer.

It’s also super adjustable with a shoulder strap that reaches 52” and an adorable matching coin purse. 

The one downside? Unlike other anti-theft travel purses, the zippers don’t lock. If this is a deal-breaker, check out the Travelon travel purses above.

Overall, this stylish travel purse is for anyone who prioritizes practical features. You really can’t go wrong with a Baggallini purse.

• Trusted brand
• Lots of colors
• Multiple pockets
• A little bulky
• Not as fashionable

#14 BAGSMART Laptop Bag

Best Laptop Travel Bag

Size: 17.1″ x 6.5” (up to 8.7”) x 13″ Weight: 2.31 lbs Features: Expandable pockets, zippered external pocket, adjustable crossbody strap

This BAGSMART Laptop Bag is practical without looking too techy. It has a padded laptop sleeve that fits 17.3-inch laptops.

The outside is made of water-resistant polyester, and it’s even expandable.

Cushioned straps distribute the weight of a heavy computer to help prevent shoulder pain.

As a travel laptop bag, it’s also very important to note that the main compartment zips closed.

The last thing I want is for someone to reach in and grab important work documents.

Or for pens and sticky notes to fall out when I slip my bag under the seat on a plane. 

Overall, this bag’s large capacity means that it can double as a carry-on and an everyday bag, no matter where your travels take you.

• Sleek and professional
• Slim but spacious expandability
• Comfortable straps
• Long handle drop is comfortable over the shoulder or carried in hand
• No anti-theft technology
• Not high fashion

#15 Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack

Best Purse for New Moms

Size: 11” x 13.5” x 7” Weight: 1.75 lbs Features: Made from recycled materials, with a detachable shoulder strap, grab straps, and everything from stroller clips to a changing pad.

Now it’s time for the best on-the-go travel purse for moms.

Having a baby shouldn’t stop you from looking your best and traveling the world. 

The Dagne Dover Wade Diaper Tote is my favorite purse diaper bag where parents can fit everything they need, from diapers to baby bottles and fruit rollups to swimsuits. 

Its main compartments are spacious, and there’s even a spot for 13″ laptops–not that the baby is coming on business trips, but maybe a “working play date.”

And Dagne Dover has you covered with included features like a washable water-resistant bag for soiled clothes, stroller clips, a mini pouch, and a changing mat.

Plus, the Premium Neoprene and Performance Air Mesh are made of recycled water bottles for sustainable luxury.

The cushiony material is an excellent alternative to leather when you’re around kids. It’s just what new moms need.

• You can carry it two ways
• Goes with any outfit
• Nine pockets, plus plenty of open space
• Detachable strap
• Doesn’t look like a diaper bag
• A little boxy
• Not the best backpack option

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Travel Purse

What to Look for in a Travel Purse

Versatility

While traveling, your purse needs to work around the clock. Choose something that will look good at your most casual and glamorous moments.

Organization

If you like to toss everything into a soup of lip balm and pens, go for a big zippered tote. 

If you believe everything has its special place, double-check that there are plenty of organizational pockets.

Travel bags range in style from crossbody to sling, belt, backpack, and shoulder totes. 

Choose something that feels comfortable for your body type and fashion style.

Portability

Traveling with a lightweight purse is liberating. Additionally, look for something that fits in your luggage if you don’t plan to wear it every day.

When sightseeing all day, you need a purse with shoulder straps that don’t make your shoulders sore in the first hour.

Consider the types of purses you’ve enjoyed in the past. 

A convertible purse means that you can change the carrying position throughout the day.

Anti-Theft Features

As a traveler, you’re more vulnerable to pickpockets. You’ll be tired, distracted, and out of your element.

This is why it’s good to look for anti-theft features like slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets. 

Types of Travel Purses

Small vs Medium vs Large

The smaller the purse, the more portable it will be. This is especially important if you like to go out at night.

Medium purses and convertible backpacks are perfect for all-day adventures when you want to carry snacks, a camera, or a water bottle. 

On travel days, large purses are handy for carrying valuables instead of risking having them stolen or damaged in a rolling suitcase. 

If I have the space, I usually carry at least two differently-sized purses with me on my travels. 

I generally pack one small purse for going out at night or to dinner and one medium/large purse for daytime adventures and travel days.

Anti-theft purses come with special features like locking compartments and an RFID-blocking pocket to keep you safe from thieves. 

Fashionable/Luxury

Luxury bags are the perfect travel purses for France, Italy, and other fashion-renowned places.

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not enjoy being part of the fashion scene? 

Plus, depending on where you’re traveling, you might fit in more as a local and, therefore, not be as targeted by pickpockets. 

Convertible Purses 

The best purses for travel are versatile. I especially like purses that transform into backpacks for carrying my accumulation of souvenirs and brochures.

Totes are always in style and allow you to carry everything your heart desires. 

Make sure to choose a tote with enough organization on the inside, and keep in mind that all of the weight is carried on one shoulder.

It’s also not as hands-free as a crossbody bag.

Shoulder Bag

Shoulder bags have longer shoulder straps than tote bags. They hang on the shoulder and free up your hands a little better.

Crossbody Bags

Crossbody bags are hands-free and sit on your hip for safekeeping. Plus, the crossbody design helps distribute the weight evenly. 

It’s unsurprising why they’re one of the most popular styles for travel purses. 

Sling bags are another great option if you want a hands-free purse. They hug your body and sit under your arm for safekeeping. 

Typically, sling bags have a lower capacity, which is perfect for going out but not the best for a carry-on bag.

FAQs About Travel Purses

What style of purse is best for travel? 

First of all, the best purse for traveling is something that you feel comfortable using. 

I prefer anti-theft crossbody purses because they’re comfortable, easy to keep track of, and overall a very versatile bag.

What is the safest type of purse to travel with?

An anti-theft travel bag is the best option for protecting your belongings. They’re built with safety in mind. 

Most have a locking main compartment and special materials that utilize the crossbody or shoulder bag design.

What type of travel bag goes with everything? 

Black leather is the little black dress of purses. It matches every outfit, activity, and time of day.

Likewise, a medium size purse with a simple design looks good while eating lunch along the Parisian Seine or touring castles in Germany.

What should I pack in my travel purse?

Aside from a wallet, keys, and phone, pack anything that will keep you healthy and comfortable during a long and strenuous day of sightseeing.

This might include:

• Books and travel guides
• Notebook/sketchbook
• Pens/pencils
• Hand sanitizer
• Water bottle

How do you stop a bag from getting snatched or pickpocketed?

The first and most important rule for avoiding theft is vigilance. Be aware of your bag and surroundings at all times.

Don’t leave your purse where you can’t see it or put a hand on it. Keep it close, in your lap at a cafe, and wear it on the front in crowded areas.

Especially on public transportation, don’t appear too lost in your thoughts or like you don’t know where you’re going.

Once you’ve covered the basics, anti-theft technology can close any gaps. 

Should I even travel with a purse?

I always bring a purse on my travels. You’ll want to have essentials with you even when you leave your luggage behind at your hotel, hostel, or vacation rental. 

Travel purses vs backpacks–which one is better?

I’m a big proponent of backpack purses because they’re the most comfortable for my body.

That said, backpacks are out of your line of sight and therefore more vulnerable to pickpockets.

Some packs, like the PINCNEL Anti-Theft Rucksack , have solved this problem and are well-protected with hidden pockets.

It ultimately comes down to what fits your style and body best. 

Conclusion: Our Pick for the Best Travel Purse

So, which is the best pick out of all the travel purses on this list? 

All of the options in this article have their benefits, depending on what’s most important to you when you travel.

However, my personal favorite is the Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag .  

It features a simple design with a ton of interior organization and safety features.

The body and strap are made of slash-resistant material, and each pocket zips closed with anti-theft zippers.

And you can choose between the sleek black, stylish enough to go with everything option, or a pattern, which is tasteful and fun.

This is the perfect bag for carry-on travel or for a full day of adventures when you need peace of mind.

Plus, it comes from a trusted travel brand and will last for years.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for an even more stylish purse, I can’t get enough of the Lo & Sons Pearl . 

This purse comes in leather and vegan leather with 20 color and material combinations to match your style.

There are two zipper pockets for your wallet and phone and slip pockets for lip balm and masks, so it’s great for staying organized as well.

It’s small enough to take on any adventure and big enough to pack all the essentials, plus a notebook for a day of exploring.  

It’s one of the best crossbody bags for looking professional and fashionable. Plus, it transforms into a clutch or shoulder bag when needed. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elina Ansary

As a visual artist, Elina is a frequent traveler and pathological overpacker who often finds herself transporting lots of objects while traveling–from artwork to art materials to gifts and souvenirs. She’s tried tons of different suitcases, backpacks, purses, and bags in her quest to resolve her baggage dilemnas. She grew up in San Francisco, CA, and spent her childhood camping up and down Northern California.

These days, Elina visits artist residencies in locations around the world, including Amsterdam, Finland, Italy, and Australia, and has exhibited her work in galleries and museums in the US and abroad. When she isn’t writing and editing for The Atlas Heart, Elina is pursuing a Master’s degree in Visual Art at Cornell University and splits her time between Ithaca and Brooklyn.

Looking for more travel gear recommendations? Check out our related posts below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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25 Best Travel Purses That Are Actually Stylish

By Brigitt Earley and Paula Lee

Your go-to tote bags and carryalls may be perfect for every day, but when you’re on the road, the best travel purses can make a world of a difference. Dedicated travel bags come in all shapes and sizes— fanny packs , laptop backpacks , cross-bodies , work totes , anti-theft purses, and more—but generally feature multiple compartments (hi, mesh pocket) to keep your essentials organized, a usually convertible or detachable strap that’s comfortable enough to wear all day, and even anti-theft features to secure your things against pickpockets.

Whether you’re traveling internationally (finally taking that long-awaited trip to Europe?) or planning a short weekend getaway, we typically find that the best travel bags are those that you can wear close to your body, such as a cross-body, a sling, or a belt bag . When you have a bigger haul or need a convenient carry-on, you can’t beat a smartly designed backpack or packable travel handbag.

If this sounds like the stereotypical tourist bag with a less-than-flattering design, though, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. From top-rated anti-theft purses that leave your hands free for a day of sightseeing to mom-approved diaper bags and water-repellent backpacks that’ll see you through any adventure, we’ve rounded up the most reliable and stylish travel purses that will take you from the house to the airport to your destination—and back.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Lululemon Mini Belt Bag , $38
• Most Versatile: Athleta All About Belt Bag , $35
• Best Backpack: The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Best Anti-Theft Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag , $75
• Best Cross-Body Bag: Dagne Dover Micah Water Resistant Cross-Body Bag , $110
• Best Luxury: GG Marmont Belt Bag , $1,700
• Most Lightweight: Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag , $20
• Best for Airport: Cincha Travel Belt Bag , $60

Athleta All About Belt Bag

Fanny packs are great travel companions—they're unassuming yet have space for all the essentials you don't want to lose at the bottom of your tote. We've used this one from Athleta for running, but it's just as clutch for traveling since the front zippered pocket can hold passports, sanitizer, and other documents needed for the trip. The adjustable strap is great for converting into a waist bag when your shoulders get tired—although it's so lightweight you won't even notice it's there. The DWR finish also means you can safely wear it in the rain. Yay!

• Pros: Lightweight; adjustable strap, easily accessible front zipper, water-resistant material
• Cons: Small sizes makes it better suited for holding just the essentials.

Save when you shop on the best running fanny packs with these Athleta promo codes .

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

If you’re flying, this water-resistant backpack makes a great carry-on. You’ll breeze through security, thanks to a TSA-friendly 15-inch exterior laptop pocket and a catchall zip pocket to keep your passport and ticket at the ready. Of course, there are multiple compartments inside for everything else you need to tote: a spacious main area, a magazine and notebook pocket, and two water bottle holders. It also has a pass-through strap that attaches to rolling luggage.

• Pros: Spacious interior plus exterior laptop pocket, side water bottle holders; can be slipped onto the luggage handles of a carry-one.
• Cons: Water bottle pockets don't fit containers of 32 ounces or more; some reviewers say the color isn't as pictured.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

This waist bag, which comes in an impressive array of colors, keeps your hands free for navigating the ticket counter, shopping for souvenirs, or touring museums. It has an interior pocket that’s roomy enough for the essentials—a wallet, keys, and your cell phone—plus an exterior zippered pocket that’s sandwiched between you and the bag to protect any valuable personal items from pickpockets.

• Pros: Comfy to wear, versatile; comes in many colors; can fit a charger
• Cons: There are none.

Save when you shop on the best running fanny packs with these Lululemon promo codes .

Kate Spade Sam Icon KSNYL Nylon Medium Belt Bag

Wear it as a belt bag or a cross-body—either way, this small nylon and leather bag is the perfect solution for day trips and other small excursions. Pop larger items like your wallet into the main compartment, and stash smaller items like keys in the exterior pocket.

• Pros: Compact; various zippered compartments
• Cons: Expensive

Save when you shop the best travel purses with these Kate Spade promo codes and Nordstrom promo codes .

By Emily Tannenbaum

By Elizabeth Logan

GG Marmont Belt Bag

If you’re on the hunt for a stylish but still relatively affordable designer bag , Gucci’s GG Marmont Belt Bag is a worthy investment you’ll have for years to come. The soft quilted leather bag with its resin strap and black brass hardware isn’t just head-turning; it’s also highly versatile. Wear it as a belt or shoulder bag.

• Pros: Sleek design, convertible strap
• Cons: Small; doesn't fit a ton.

Dagne Dover Micah Water-Resistant Cross-Body Bag

Dagne Dover

Made from a unique and highly durable neoprene-like fabric, this roomy cross-body is as hardworking as they come. With three main compartments—one of which is on the backside of the bag to keep valuables safe—this purse has more space than most comparable options. It’s also water-resistant, so you won’t have to make a mad dash when the skies open up.

• Pros: Water-resistant, roomy for its size, easy to wipe clean
• Cons: Some reviewers say the strap is too short and they don't love the boxy shape.

Save when you shop the best travel purses with these Nordstrom promo codes .

Longchamp Le Pliage 21-Inch Expandable Travel Bag

A classic for a reason, Longchamp’s Expandable Travel Bag is both stylish and ultra functional. The durable water-resistant nylon bag features a one-of-a-kind zip inset that expands to meet your needs. Open it all the way to use it as a carry-on for your flight; once you’ve unpacked, size it down to hold as a purse while you tour.

• Pros: Water-resistant, expandable
• Cons: Some reviewers say the size is too big when unzipped; heavy to carry.

Tumi Just in Case Nylon Travel Backpack

Tumi calls this the Just in Case backpack, because you can fold it flat and stash it in your suitcase—just in case you need extra space to bring a few souvenirs home. This particular feature also makes it easy to store when you’re not traveling. We don’t see that happening, though. The sleek bag has a roomy interior, a sizable exterior pocket, and attractive gold hardware that makes it hard to resist for everyday use.

• Pros: Packs flat; back sleeve for slipping over suitcase handles.
• Cons: No padded laptop pocket

Charmore Women’s Travel Backpack

For proof that budget-friendly can be just as functional, peep this backpack. The faux leather looks a lot like the real thing but is fully water-resistant. It’s packed with compartments too. Inside, there are dedicated spots for documents, keys, glasses, your phone, and more. Outside, two water bottle holders serve as a home for your favorite beverage or a compact umbrella.

• Pros: Water-resistant, wallet-friendly
• Cons: Not super sturdy

Fjallraven Women's Kanken Mini Backpack

Available in a whopping 45 colors, there’s something to suit every personality and style. But it’s not all about aesthetics. This compact backpack is super lightweight, so you can carry the essentials in one of four compartments—a main pocket, a zippered exterior pocket, and two side pockets—on an all-day tour without growing tired and sore. As a nice bonus, the durable canvas-like fabric is dirt- and water-resistant and wipes clean.

• Pros: Popular style, great gift for teens ; lots of colors, durable canvas
• Cons: Not super big

Coach Kitt Messenger Cross-Body

If your travel plans include concerts, sporting events, and other venues that don’t allow large bags, make sure to pack a compact purse like this one. Not only does this leather option look great; it has two convenient compartments, including an outside open pocket for easy access to your tickets.

• Pros: Compact; easy access to essentials

Rebecca Minkoff MAB Cross-Body

A fantastic day-to-night option, this cross-body is made of buttery-soft lambskin that looks super sophisticated and features multiple pockets inside and out as well as an adjustable strap for continued comfort.

• Pros: Adjustable shoulder strap, versatile design

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

If you’re worried about security, you can’t beat Travelon’s anti-theft features. The bag has a hidden slash-proof chain link construction and a cut-proof shoulder strap, plus a locking zipper to keep your wallet and travel documents as safe as can be. There are plenty of organizational features to love too: slots for credit cards, pockets for notebooks and documents, a water bottle holder, and an expansion pocket for larger items like a camera or sunglasses.

• Pros: Anti-theft design; utilitarian
• Cons: Smaller than expected; water bottle pocket doesn't hold larger sizes.

Cuyana Recycled Overnight

It may be made out of recycled plastic, but this travel purse is as easy on the eyes as any. Available in two sophisticated shades—cappuccino and black, both with brass hardware—the bag is constructed with three spacious compartments, protective metal feet, sturdy handles, and cross-body straps for versatility.

• Pros: Comes in two sizes; convertible straps, eco-friendly design.

LeSportsac x Warm & Wonderful AEC Shoulder Bag

Rowing Blazers

A nod to Princess Diana’s iconic black sheep sweater, this limited edition mini hobo is part of a LeSportsac and Warm & Wonderful collaboration (designed by the Rowing Blazers ’ creative director Jack Carlson). The adjustable strap converts it from shoulder to cross-body, the ripstop nylon is durable, and there are pockets aplenty—in short, it’s a charming take on a classic travel purse.

• Pros: Durable material, convertible strap, interior and exterior pockets
• Cons: On the smaller size

Calpak Luka Belt Bag

With a matte puffy look, this adjustable waist bag is stylish, practical, and comfortable against the body. It’s generously sized and features a hidden outside pocket to fit a passport or a phone. Pair it with the coordinating duffel for a sleek set.

• Pros: Lightweight, versatile; scratch-resistant material

Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag

This best-selling half-moon bag from Uniqlo is deceptively large (I’ve fit a water bottle and Kindle in it, along with my other essentials) and has interior slip pockets. It’s also very lightweight, packs flat, and will serve you long after you return from your trip.

• Pros : Lightweight, affordable, roomy; seven colors
• Cons : No interior zip pocket

Free People Movement Renegade Sling

Free People

Sling bags lend themselves very well for a day of exploring. This thoughtful, sporty design has multiple compartments, a front pocket to stash your phone, and a padded strap for comfort.

• Pros: Lots of convenient compartments, padded strap, seven colors
• Cons: Side water bottle holder fits only smaller sizes.

Save when you shop the best travel purses with these Free People promo codes .

Aloha Collection Pinstripe Mini Hip Pack

Aloha Collection’s bags are all “splash-proof” and water-resistant, ideal if you’re headed to a rainy destination, beach locale, or even a theme park. This belt bag is super lightweight (clocking in at a little over three ounces), so you won’t be dragged down when wearing it for extended periods of time.

• Pros: Water-resistant, lightweight; packs flat
• Cons: Small

Baggallini Pocket Crossbody Travel Bag with RFID

No need to worry about identity theft with this cross-body that will keep you safe on the go. Stash your credit cards and ID in the removable wristlet with built-in RFID blocking technology. Plus, there’s a back pocket for quick phone access.

• Pros: Anti-theft RFID technology, removable wristlet, organizational features; machine-washable
• Cons: Compact size; some reviewers wish the shoulder strap were more substantial.

Mali + Lili Mackenzie Water Resistant Nylon Cross-Body Bag

A cute and colorful take on the trendy nylon bags, this affordable cross-body version is perfect for a city escapade. The little detachable pouch is useful for AirPods or lip balm, and there’s a back slip pocket for other items you want easily accessible, such as a transit card.

• Pros: Water-resistant material, clip-on pouch, printed lining so you can see your things
• Cons: Available only in green

Madewell The Transport Camera Bag

Prefer a leather bag? This vintage-y structured camera bag style gets better with age and embodies that life-well-traveled feel. It has an exterior front pocket and an interior slip pocket and also comes with interchangeable strap options (leather and webbed) so you can switch up the looks. Opt for the larger size if you want to fit an actual camera in your purse.

• Pros: Two straps; available in a larger size
• Cons: No inside zip pocket

Away FAR Messenger 16L

Throw everything into this roomy yet lightweight messenger bag, from snacks and a water bottle to a tablet or even laptop (there’s an interior slip for it). There’s also a hidden side pocket on the outside so you can easily get ahold of your phone or passport without having to frantically dig around.

• Pros: Lightweight, durable; trolley sleeve

Béis Backpack

This cotton backpack with faux-leather trim has dedicated space for almost everything to keep you organized: padded laptop sleeve, inside elastic compression straps, water bottle holders, key leash, and inside zip compartments. We also appreciate the full zip opening that opens flat and lets you easily find what you’re looking for.

• Pros: Full zipper opening, minimal and versatile design, lots of pockets, cushioned straps
• Cons: Some reviewers note that the water bottle pockets don’t expand when the bag is full.

Cincha Travel Belt Bag

When you’re wrestling with multiple bags at the airport (guilty), it’s helpful to have a belt bag on you. This one pulls double duty: In addition to being worn as a sling, it functions as a clever travel belt to keep your personal bag fastened on top of your roller suitcase—no more slipping or sliding around when you’re in a rush.

• Pros: Versatile design, secure zipper closure, back exterior pocket; water-resistant

By Talia Abbas

By Paula Lee

By Jake Henry Smith

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• People Tested

The 16 Best Travel Purses of 2024, Tested on Planes, Trains, and Car Rides

Including purses, backpacks, and totes for every trip

Elizabeth Marino is a freelance commerce writer for PEOPLE, focusing on home products. A lover of all things home and family, she is thrilled to help consumers find the perfect products to fit their domestic needs. In her spare time you can find her traveling to any and all historic sites and museums – and food spots – throughout the country. You can read some of her history-based writing on the Smithsonian Ocean Portal. She holds a BA in American Studies and History from Columbia University.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Verdict

• What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why trust people, what is people tested.

People / Nick Kova

Whether you’re off to the beach, Europe, or headed out on business and want to put your most professional foot forward, a good travel purse can make your next travel experience easier.

What do we mean by a travel purse? Any easy-to-carry purse, belt bag, tote, backpack, crossbody, or sling bag that's small enough to count as your personal item or underseat bag on an airplane. With a seemingly endless collection of different styles, sizes, and materials on the market, finding the right travel purse, tote, or backpack to take on your trip can be an overwhelming task. 

We tested popular travel bags on planes, trains, and, yes, car rides, and asked our team members to share their favorites. After reviewing 30 different travel purses on their capacity, portability, ease of use, design features, durability, and value, we put together this list of the top 16 travel bags, tested by real people.

Keep scrolling to shop the best travel purses, recommended by PEOPLE.

Best Overall

Cheruty backpack purse.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

Large main pouch for easy access

Opening is on the back to keep items safe

Doesn't sit on top of rolling luggage easily

Earning perfect scores across the board, this elegant travel backpack from Cheruty was our favorite. Featuring water bottle pouches, small interior and exterior pockets for passports and small devices, and soft, adjustable straps, this travel backpack has it all. Our favorite part, though, features a cavernous main pouch (with access only from the back, keeping your items extremely secure!) with a giant flap zipper opening, allowing you to easily pack your bag with all your items, small or large. Plus, it’s made with vegan leather that’s been coated with polyurethane, making it water-resistant. It also comes in two sizes and more than 25 colors.

It doesn’t include a sleeve to keep it on top of rolling carry-on luggage , but you can keep it strapped on your back while you maneuver your luggage through the airport. While it’s not a name brand, this backpack’s combination of capacity and features for a great price make it a truly fantastic option for a travel bag.

Size: 12.6 x 12.6 x 5.9 inches (medium), 13.7 x 14.7 x 6.3 inches (large) | Body Material: Vegan polyurethane leather | Available Colors: 26

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Dagne Dover

Super spacious interior with tons of pockets

Folds up compactly

Has convenient features like a key leash and a shoe bag

Doesn’t have any interior dividers

This duffel tote from Dagne Dover also earned perfect scores in all of our categories. Featuring a long zipper offering an easily accessible wide top opening, a cavernous interior, and various straps that allow you to carry it or wear it on your shoulder or crossbody, this bag has it all. It’s super lightweight and folds into itself, making for efficient storage.

While it doesn’t have interior dividers in the main section, it has a ton of pockets — including an interior laptop sleeve, four small interior side pockets, an exterior phone pocket, and a luggage handle sleeve — and it comes with a key leash, a small mesh pouch, and a shoe bag. Plus, it cleans super well — it looked as good as new after we washed it! We absolutely loved this well-made, well-designed travel duffel for any and all travel.

Size: 16.5 x 11 x 9 inches | Body Material: Neoprene, air mesh | Available Colors: 13

People / Conor Ralph

The Spruce / Nick Kova

Best Budget

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

• Capacity 2 /5

Large capacity despite small size

Comes in wide array of colors

Doesn't have any exterior pouches

If you’re looking for something more compact that will still hold a lot of items, this trendy crossbody or shoulder bag from Uniqlo is a great option. While only 11 inches by 6.7 inches at its widest points, the side pleats enable it to open up to almost 4 inches at the bottom, allowing you to fit a surprising amount inside. Plus, it’s wide enough to hold a small device like an iPad mini or a small notebook — ideal for travel purposes.

Although it doesn’t have exterior pouches, it also features flat pouches inside to help you keep your items organized. And with an adjustable strap and a wide array of fun, water-repellent colors, we know it can suit any outfit.

Size: 11 x 6.7 x 3.9 inches | Body Material: Polyester | Available Colors: 8

People / Abigail Moore

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon all night festival bag micro.

• Capacity 3 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5

Durable, high-quality bag

Versatile design and can be worn several ways

Convenient zip pockets in different sizes

No slots to organize credit cards

This small Lululemon belt bag is the ideal bag for anyone looking to keep their important items accessible and organized without the bag getting in the way. This affordable and high-quality travel purse features a thoughtful design with multiple zip pockets of different shapes and sizes, making it great for many different uses. The front zip pocket is the ideal size for money, a couple of credit cards, and a phone, so you can easily access the things you need in a jiff. (We just wish it had slots to organize the credit cards.) Plus, it’s made of water-repellent nylon (which is super easy to spot clean!) and has held up remarkably well over the year our tester has had it.

Size: 5.5 x 5.1 x 2 inches | Body Material: Nylon | Available Colors: 3

Best Crossbody

Kavu sydney satchel.

• Capacity 4 /5

Sturdy and well-constructed bag that's easy to clean

Comes in fun colors and prints

Spacious enough to hold a sweatshirt

Style and prints may not be super professional

This fantastic crossbody satchel from Kavu can accompany you on any trip. With enough capacity to hold even a bulky sweatshirt, this cotton purse is great for any time you want to bring along some belongings without it feeling unwieldy or heavy. It’s super easy to clean and quite sturdy and well-made, so it’s great for trips where you might be doing rough outdoor activities, like hiking or enjoying an amusement park. With a large exterior zip pocket, an interior zip pocket, and two small interior flat pockets, this bag is great for keeping your items organized while remaining easily accessible.

Plus, it has a long, adjustable strap and comes in 16 fun colors and prints, so you can find one right up your alley. The prints are rather bold, so this satchel might not be ideal if you need a more professional-looking bag.

Size: 15 x 13 x 1.5 inches | Body Material: Cotton | Available Colors: 16

Best Medium-Sized

Baggu nylon crescent bag.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

Lightweight to carry

Machine washable

Comes in lots of fun colors and patterns

Has two pockets but no interior separators

If you’re looking for a travel purse that’s not too big or too small, is easy to clean, and is super durable, the Medium Nylon Crescent Bag from Baggu may be the ideal fit. Made of durable heavyweight nylon (which is machine-washable and super easy to spot clean), this stylish bag featuring a variety of funky colors will hold all of your important items, and you can keep the most essential ones like keys and credit cards out of the fray in the interior zippered pouch. It doesn’t have any interior separators, but the pockets can keep most things organized.

Plus, it's lightweight, so it won't be cumbersome to carry even if it's full. And since it isn’t too big, your items won’t get all mixed up and lost in a dark corner, either. It also has an adjustable strap, allowing you to hold it close to your body, and it zips shut and has no exterior pockets, so you can rest assured your items will be safe while you wander the airport, the beach, or the streets of Europe. And, if you’re looking for something a bit bigger, Baggu has released a large version as well.

Size: 13.75 x 8 x 4 inches | Body Material: Recycled heavyweight nylon | Available Colors: 14

Best with Multiple Pockets

Multisac lorraine crossbody bag.

• Portability 4 /5

Great value

Sleek style that's appropriate for more formal settings

Ideal size: not too large, not too small

Narrow top opening can make it hard to find your belongings quickly

This well-designed vegan leather travel purse from MultiSac is the ideal option if you’re looking to keep many different items organized throughout your travels. It features four exterior pockets — three on the front (two flat, one gusseted) and one on the back (which is extremely secure and can even be a bit difficult to access oneself) — as well as three interior pockets (two small gusseted ones, and one big enough for a small device like a tablet). With this variety of pocket shapes and sizes, you’ll definitely be able to keep all your important documents organized and accessible. 

Plus, it comes in various colors and prints, and the adjustable strap allows you to wear the purse crossbody or on your shoulder. It also has a sleek style that's appropriate for more formal settings. This affordable purse is the ideal size for traveling — it’s not too large or too small. One small drawback: The narrow top opening of the purse can make it challenging to find and access your belongings quickly.

Size: 11 x 12 x 2.5 inches | Body Material: Vegan leather | Available Colors: 5

Best Foldable

Away the packable carryall.

Lightweight with large capacity

Includes storage pouch with loop

Has trolley sleeve to attach to luggage

Doesn’t have any interior organizing compartments

If you’re looking for a bag that will hold a lot but can be easily stored throughout your trip or while you’re home (or is a great “just in case” bag), you can’t do better than this foldable carryall from Away. Made of water-resistant nylon, this bag folds up into a tiny 6 by 4-inch storage pouch with a loop that can easily be tossed anywhere.

While it doesn’t feature organizing compartments, it has one flat exterior pocket, one zipped interior pocket, and a whole bunch of capacity — ideal for any trip where you want to fit it all in one bag. It also features a trolley sleeve for easy transport in the airport, and it comes in a variety of beautiful, fun colors.

Size: 19.7 x 15 x 9 inches | Body Material: Recycled nylon | Available Colors: 3

Best with Shoe Compartment

Minkars weekender bag.

Padded laptop sleeve

USB charging port

Wide opening and sturdy design

Not a lot of color options

With a spacious and easily accessible shoe compartment at the bottom, this travel tote by Minkars is great for any weekend trip. It looks a lot like a piece of Béis luggage but at half the price. It has a super wide opening and a sturdy design that holds its shape while you fill it, so you’ll have an easy time packing, unpacking, and accessing items in this bag. Plus, the shoe compartment is super spacious and easy to access.

This bag also comes with a matching toiletry case and a detachable crossbody strap, so you can carry it however works best for you. This thoughtfully designed bag also has a padded sleeve for your laptop, a trolley sleeve for hands-free rolling through the airport, and a USB charging port that’s available when you need it.

Size: 17 x 16 x 8 inches | Body Material: Waterproof | Available Colors: 2

Best Sling Bag

Patagonia atom sling bag.

Made of durable, easy-to-clean, water-repellent material

Has several pockets and pouches to keep belongings organized and accessible

Casual bag, so it doesn’t have a professional look

Another travel bag that earned top scores, this crossbody sling bag from Patagonia is excellent for anyone looking to comfortably free up their hands without sacrificing capacity. The bag itself rides on the wearer's back (close to your body), keeping your items safely out of the way without swinging everywhere and becoming a nuisance. Plus, the adjustable strap is padded and designed for comfort — and our favorite part: It features a small zipper pouch on the front for important or heavy-use items like a phone or keys.

We love how spacious this bag is and the fact that it’s water-repellent and easy to clean. The pockets and pouches in this bag are thoughtfully designed. In addition to the strap pouch, the bag features an exterior zip pouch along with the main zip pouch (and inside, there is a separator to keep your items organized), plus straps for carrying something bulkier like a yoga mat.

Size: 13.5 x 9 x 3 inches | Body Material: Water-repellent recycled polyester | Available Colors: 8

Best Lightweight

Longchamp le pliage filet mesh bag.

Compact and easy to store

Surprisingly large capacity

Comes with long straps to carry on shoulder

Contents are always visible

If you’re looking for something unique, versatile, and stylish, this mesh bag from Longchamp (in collaboration with FILT) is the ideal option. With a surprisingly high capacity (think towel, sweater, book, sunglasses, water bottle , and more ), this scrunch-upable purse is great for any time you may need an impromptu bag — especially at the beach; no sand getting stuck in the bottom here! And don’t be concerned about your items falling out — we had no issue with this throughout our use. Keep in mind that everything is visible with this bag. It also has both the iconic Le Pliage flap and snap closure and handles as well as a longer set of straps, so you can wear it however works best for you.

Size: 15 x 12.2 inches | Body Material: Cotton | Available Colors: 5

Best Versatility

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Has zipper expander, so you can switch between medium and large tote

Can fold into rectangle for easy storage and transport

Polyamide canvas material is easy to clean

No interior organizational compartments

Another one of the travel bags on our list that earned high ratings, Longchamp’s expandable travel bag is great for so many uses. Even without opening the expansion, this bag already has quite the capacity, but if you’d like some extra space, just zip open the expansion and you’re good to go. Plus, this bag comes with both Longchamp’s iconic leather flap and snap closure and handle, as well as a detachable strap for on-the-shoulder wear.

Like most of Longchamp’s Le Pliage bags, this tote is designed to be folded up into a compact little rectangle, making this the ideal bag for tossing into your suitcase “just in case,” or hiding away in your checked luggage when not in use. It doesn’t feature interior organizational pockets, which would be helpful.

Size: 17.7 x 13.8 x 9.1 inches | Body Material: Recycled polyamide canvas | Available Colors: 7

Portland Leather Leather Tote Bag

Made of high-quality materials and comes in lots of colors

Deep, wide interior

No zippered interior pockets

Tote bag lovers, rejoice: This beautiful leather tote from Portland is a wonderful option for those seeking a travel bag that’s easily accessible while also looking professional and sophisticated. Although it has minimal interior organization, with a deep, wide interior, you can fit so much into this bag (we tested the large size). We wish this tote included an interior zippered pocket for added safety.

We were easily able to fit a laptop, a wallet, a book, a Kindle, and keys (especially easy thanks to the snap-open key loop), and had room for more. Plus, each size and color also comes in open-top and zipper-top options, so you can achieve the level of ease or security you desire. Our favorite part, though: The thick, sturdy, genuine leather doesn’t slouch and has shown no signs of wear in over two years of use, even on the straps and rivets.

Size: 13 x 11 x 4.5 inches (small), 15 x 12 x 5.5 inches (medium), 18 x 12 x 6 inches (large), 13.5-21 x 13 x 6 inches (oversized) | Body Material: Leather (or suede) | Available Colors: 10

Best Backpack

Longchamp le pliage original backpack.

Secure with zippers that close tightly

Lightweight and water resistant

Great capacity

Only has one flat interior pocket

Another one of our bags that earned high ratings, this elegant Longchamp is great for anyone who prefers a backpack for traveling — and wants to know their belongings are safe. With a zipper closure as well as Longchamp’s famed Le Pliage foldover snap closure, you can rest assured your items will be secure. It also folds down to a portable size that’s easy for storage and traveling.

While it only comes with one flat interior pocket and doesn’t include organizational pockets or compartments, we were impressed by how much capacity this backpack has — we’ve fit a laptop, makeup, a sweater, a couple of water bottles, and snacks with no issue. Plus, it comes in several bright, fun colors, and it's lightweight and water-resistant.

Size: 10.2 x 11 x 3.9 inches | Body Material: Recycled polyamide canvas | Available Colors: 9

Best Leather

Portland leather camera bag purse.

This bag comes in a variety of fun colors in pebbled and smooth scales.

Given this bag’s compact size, it holds a lot of stuff.

It has a classic, long-lasting style.

It only has one interior and one exterior pocket.

For those looking for a small bag that’s both sophisticated and timeless, look no further. This beautiful leather crossbody bag from Portland Leather comes in two sizes and is super spacious. The bag has one interior and one exterior pocket and will hold all of your essential belongings without becoming a nuisance. With a squared-off design that’s made to hold its form and a zipper that extends an inch or two down the sides, you can fill this belt bag up and still be able to access your items with ease.

Size: Small: 5 x 7.5 x 2 inches, large: 9.25 x 6 x 2.5 inches | Body Material: Leather | Available Colors: 18

Best Investment

Lo & sons o.g. 2.

Lo & Sons

Super spacious and well-thought-out pockets

Different strap options

Another product with high scores, this sophisticated, functional, and versatile tote from Lo & Sons is ideal for any trip. With more pouches, pockets, and padding than we could imagine, this overnight bag can hold so much — and keep it organized. “Having a way to secure your travel bag on top of your roller luggage is a game changer, along with having secure but easy-to-access pockets for your passport and important items,” Jan Lo, cofounder and CEO of Lo & Sons shares.

This particular bag features a laptop sleeve, a flat exterior pouch, a shoe compartment, interior water bottle holders, small interior flat pouches, and a suitcase handle sleeve, plus a key leash and a detachable crossbody strap, allowing you to carry or wear it however you like. We also love that the nylon material makes it super easy to clean and that the bag has barely shown any signs of wear after over four years of use (just some slight fraying along the strap). Even better, it comes in a wide array of colors.

Size: 16.5 x 13.75  x 6.75 inches (medium), 16.5 x 14.75 x 6.75 inches (large) | Body Material: Nylon | Available Colors: 8

After considering all of our surveyed results of avid traveler members of our team, the Cheruty Travel Backpack is our favorite, thanks to its low price, durable material, and clever design. Coming in a close second is the Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag which comes in five sizes and includes a laptop sleeve and a luggage handle.

What to Know About Travel Purses

“Look for a bag that maximizes the space inside of the bag while not getting too big for the under-seat compartment," says Lo. Also, take into account what you may be using it for, as different types of trips may require different sizes of bags. For example, if you travel by plane often, you'll want to take note of your favorite airline's specific size constraints, whereas weeklong road trips allow for a little more flexibility.

With many different kinds of travel purses, what style will work best for you is worth considering before hitting the stores (online or in person). Our favorites? Backpacks, totes, and small purses, each of which offer different benefits.

• Backpacks , like the Longchamp Le Pliage Original Backpack and the Cheruty Backpack Purse , can be great for staying organized as they often have many pouches and pockets of different shapes and sizes.
• Totes are best for holding a lot of items and are a great option, especially if you’re trying to get away with taking just one big bag for your trip. We especially love the Away The Packable Carryall and the Dagne Dover Landon Large Carryall Bag because they can hold a lot but are super easy to store (both at home or during your trip).
• Small purses , like the Lululemon All Night Festival Bag Micro 2L , are great if you have just a few important/heavy-use items that you want to keep easily accessible. Smaller crossbody bags, like the Kavu Sydney Satchel , are also great for trips where you may be hiking or going to amusement parks.

Heavily impacting both a travel bag’s style and its functionality is the material the bag is made of. Leather is going to look professional but be hard to clean. Cotton is going to be durable and easy to clean. Nylon is both professional and easy to clean. In terms of durability, stylist Lindsay Albanese tells us her favorites are leather (we like the Portland Leather Tote Bag ), nylon, or even patent leather, adding that she loves a good print to hide stains or dirt.

Just like with luggage and travel makeup bags , travel purses can run the gamut when it comes to price: For this article, we tested bags at every price point, ranging from as low as $15 to as high as $400. It’s important to take your budget into account when shopping and try to find a well-made travel bag without being unduly pricey. We believe all of the options on our list are great choices when it comes to value.

To find the best travel purses, we surveyed our team on their favorite travel bags, asking them all about their experience traveling with different products. 

• Recommendations: Each travel purse submitted for recommendation had to have been used for six months or more. We received a list of 30 favorite bags to consider for the best travel purse.
• Evaluation: We then had our team rate their favorite travel purse on capacity, portability, ease of use, durability, design features, and value.

Frequently Asked Questions

This truly depends on what you hope to carry: backpacks are great for keeping many different items organized and out of the way, whereas purses are best for carrying just a few things like your important documents, wallet, and keys. Backpacks also make great work bags .

While this really comes down to personal preference, both Lo and Albanese shared that they prefer to travel with backpacks. Lo shared that, with more compartments, backpacks can hold more contents and are more comfortable and convenient. Albanese said she prefers backpacks for traveling because they’re the most functional kind of travel bag, with many different pouches to keep your items separated and organized.

The best way to keep your valuables safe while traveling is to make sure your bag is fully enclosed and wear it close to your front. Lo suggests a crossbody bag (we like the MultiSac Lorraine Women's Crossbody Bag and the Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag ) to achieve both of these. Lo says that if you need something bigger, choose a fully enclosing tote (which you can keep to your front in crowds) instead of a backpack. (In fact, the reason Lo & Sons originally designed the brand’s Waverley 2 was because their mom’s wallet had been stolen from a backpack while traveling.)

Carry-ons are what go in the overhead compartment (and are usually rollaboards), whereas personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. If your purse is small enough to fit under the seat, it will not count as a carry-on, and you can bring a rollaboard as well. The personal item dimension limits are generally around 16 x 13 x 7 inches, but be sure to check your air carrier’s specific rules.

Larger bags like the Lo & Sons O.G. 2 and the Cheruty Backpack Purse count as personal items (not carry-ons) and are a great choice if you’re hoping to use your travel bag to carry a lot of your stuff. 

In addition, you can also bring a smaller purse, like the Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag , Lululemon All Night Festival Bag Micro 2L , or Kavu Sydney Satchel , to carry important items and documents, which you can easily throw into a larger bag to get around bag number limits — which is one of Albanese’s favorite travel hacks.

Elizabeth Marino is a freelance commerce writer for PEOPLE, focusing on home products. A lover of all things home and family, she loves to help consumers find the best products to fit their domestic needs. In her spare time, you can find her traveling to historic sites and museums — and food spots — throughout the country. She holds a BA in American Studies and History from Columbia University.

Our Expert Panel

• Lindsay Albanese is a fashion stylist and entrepreneur based in Southern California.
• Jan Lo is the co-founder and CEO of Lo & Sons, a maker of thoughtfully designed and sustainably made travel essentials.

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

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The Best Crossbody Bags for Your Next Vacation, According to Travel Pros

Consider this style the Goldilocks of purses—it's lightweight, secure, and can fit more than you'd expect.

While the right luggage sets and weekender bags can make your transit significantly easier (or harder), choosing the best travel purse is just as important. Pick a bag too small, and you'll be left juggling your phone in your hands while you're sightseeing the Colosseum. Pick a bag that's too oversized, and you'll wish you'd left it behind in the hotel— case in point, not every bag makes for a good travel accessory.

With summer travel plans on the horizon, Marie Claire spoke with travel aficionados Yolanda Edwards of Yolo Journa l and Brooke Saward , the writer behind the World of Wanderlust blog, about their go-to trip accessory—the crossbody travel bag. The bag is a favorite amongst the well-traveled thanks to its hands-free design, detachable straps, and versatility, allowing it to take you from sightseeing to Aperitivo hour to dinner.

From designer styles to leather totes with convertible crossbody straps, the 20 bags on this list are small enough to carry hassle-free but are designed to hold all of the must-haves for your next destination.

The Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

• Best Overall Crossbody Bag for Travel: Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody Bag
• Best Budget Crossbody Bag for Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
• Best Luxury Crossbody Bag for Travel: Ferragamo Small Iconic Leather Tote Bag
• Best Compact Crossbody Bag for Travel: Minooy Athena Unique Design Mini Crossbody Bag / Wallet
• Best Durable Crossbody Bag for Travel: Dagne Dover Micah Neoprene Crossbody Bag
• Best Water-Repellent Crossbody Bag for Travel: Lululemon All Night Festival Bag 5L
• Best Convertible Crossbody Bag for Travel: Senreve Aria Belt Bag
• Best Sling Crossbody Bag for Travel: July Everyday Belt Bag

This 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.

With over 6,000 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!

If you're not one for packing multiple bags on a trip, your best bet is a purse that can seamlessly dress up or down. This Ferragamo bag is a favorite of Edwards, who loves it for its versatility. "I like this Ferragamo 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, too, and won't feel too big when it rests on your hip.

This crossbody and wallet in one is well suited for the Marie Kondo obsessives. One look inside this bag, and you'll be shocked by the many little pockets this bag has. Thanks to its organized, compact design, this small but mighty bag can fit all of your credit cards, a journal, makeup, 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.

Neoprene, a.k.a. the fabric used in scuba gear, may not be the first material you think of to use in a bag, but it has some excellent uses. First, it's waterproof, so whether you're heading to a tropical location or getting caught in the rain, your things will be well protected. It's also resistant to 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.

If your trip involves unpredictable weather or the forecast looks stormy, you'll want to invest in this two-in-one water-resistant crossbody bag that can also be worn over the shoulder. This one from Lululemon will not only keep your belongings dry, but it's 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.

If you're tempted to bring along multiple purses but know it's not the most practical way to pack, this crossbody bag is a stylish solution that can also be converted into a shoulder bag, belt bag, sling, and even a clutch. There are also a ton of different colors and leather options (including vegan leather!) to choose from.

Luggage brand July knew what they were doing when they created this belt bag. It's Saward's go-to bag for traveling since she can wear it over the 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. The inside is even coated, so you can clean it out in seconds.

Other Crossbody Travel Bags We Love

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 dozens of shoppers showing off just how much it can carry. One TikToker pulled out everything from a phone charger and wallet to snacks and over-the-ear headphones—despite its deceptively small size. The shoulder strap is easily adjustable, so you can wear it in a variety of ways; plus, it comes in several fun colors.

Don't be fooled by this bag's seemingly small size. 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.

We're big fans of Rothy's shoes here at Marie Claire, but the brand's bags prove just as good. Knitted from Rothy's signature thread made from plastic water bottles (about 430 grams of ocean-bound plastic, to be exact), 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 make it look as good as new.

A good leather tote bag is a must-have in everyone's closet, but one suited for travel is even better. This classic tote will fit all your things, whether 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 keeping its structured shape and doubling as a work bag . A detachable shoulder strap makes this tote even easier to haul across destinations.

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 your essentials without adding extra bulk. With two zippered compartments, you can easily keep your things organized, plus, the important things like your passport and ID will be extra secure in the internal zipper pocket. The best feature of this bag is that it comes in 17 different colors, including neutrals, pretty pastels, and croc-embossed leather, and also has the option for personalization.

A travel bag doesn't have to sacrifice style to get the job done—Cuyana's Double Loop Bag is a prime example. The unique double-loop design of the shoulder strap adds a chic touch, 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.

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 crossbody version. 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 plans, you can switch this bag from a crossbody to a shoulder bag.

If you prefer to travel light, this crossbody bag is right up your alley. It 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.

Speaking from personal experience, JW PEI bags are crazy good quality for their price point. The brand's Mini Flap Crossbody is a good option if you're looking for a trendier piece to take with you on your travels. Available in 19 different colorways—including this dark brown and fun shades like metallic silver and bright pink—there's a shade for every style preference. While this bag doesn't have a zip closure, it does close with a magnetic button and has an interior zipper pocket for your smaller personal items.

Sometimes, simple is better, as this Coach crossbody bag makes clear. 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 too small, so you can easily fit your travel essentials comfortably. Plus, the zip top closure and zipper pockets keep them secure.

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 big belt bag for every day or the mini size for quick trips—and 20 colors to match perfectly with your coordinating Calpak luggage.

Tumi is a cult-favorite luggage brand for a reason. The brand only uses the highest quality materials in their designs, and functionality is a main concern for every piece. This crossbody has ample pockets—enough for your keys, wallet, phone, and credit cards to have their own space. It's made of durable nylon and has shining golden hardware for an extra luxe touch.

Key Features of the Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

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.

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.

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.

What makes the best crossbody bags the best is their versatile nature, which allows them to pair alongside whatever's on your itinerary. From the plane to nice dinners and everything in between, a travel crossbody should be able to do everything. Turn to a structured crossbody for an elevated exploring outfit to keep a casual look luxe. Make sure you choose lightweight pieces to layer with so your crossbody can comfortably lay.

Take it from me that keeping your essentials (passport, wallet, headphones, etc.) in a backpack or shoulder bag is not a good idea when traveling. Keep your things within easy reach while being able to go hands-free with a sling crossbody. A leather option also adds a touch more elevation to your summer airport outfits .

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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Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she specializes in crafting shopping stories—from sales content to buying guides that span every vertical on the site. She also oversees holiday coverage with an emphasis on gifting guides as well as Power Pick , our monthly column on the items that power the lives of MC’s editors. 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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The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure

Take them everywhere

As someone who is constantly on the move, I’m well versed in the best travel purses. Whether I’m taking regular trips back home to Washington, D.C., or flying across the country to visit my brother in Los Angeles, I've never left the house without a purse draped across my shoulder.

Size is a matter of personal preference: You may seek out a small purse if you're packing light, or a medium crossbody if you're taking in sights with a guidebook in tow. However, I will say that big bags have been dominating trend cycles. Just take a look at recent fashion shows, such as Balenciaga’s Fall 2024 spectacle in L.A. which featured a sea of sizable shoulder bags , leather totes , and crossbody bags to tote everything you could possibly need on vacation.

No matter where you're headed or how much you plan to carry, embark on your upcoming journey in style with the 14 best travel purses ahead.

The Best Travel Purses for 2024

Best Shoulder Bag for Travel

Ysl bea textured-leather tote.

Most Organized Travel Purse

Anya hindmarch in-flight leather and suede-trimmed tote.

Best Crossbody Travel Purse

Reformation rosetta sling crossbody bag.

The supple leather of Saint Laurent's Bea tote will feel so comfortable resting on your shoulders. The handles' broad width will also reduce pressure, so carrying heavier items like your water bottle or tablet in transit won’t cause a problem.

Dimensions: 11"H x 19.3"W x 5.5"D.

Material: Leather

Color: Black

Misplacing your belongings can gravely impact any adventure. (I've lost several essentials in the past because I’ve relied on jacket pockets and non-closure bags to carry my precious belongings.) Instead, invest in a bag like Anya Hindmarch’s In-Flight tote to organize all your must-haves. This suede-trimmed design is equipped with countless compartments that will house every kind of essential, small or large.

Dimensions: 10.2"H x 15.4"W x 9.8"D.

Material: Canvas, leather, suede

Colors: Brown, multicolored

Attempting to carry a handbag while juggling heavy luggage can be a cumbersome experience. That’s why Maguire likes to sling Reformation’s Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag over her shoulder. “The black colorway will go with everything in your closet,” Maguire notes—whether you're traveling far or spending another day in your home town.

Dimensions: 9.75"H x 11.75"L x 4"D

Material: Leather, suede

Proenza Schouler Stanton Leather Belt Bag

For those who pack lightly, you’ll simply need an uncomplicated belt bag to wear around your waist. Turn to Proenza Schouler's Stanton bag, which features a stud-fastening belt and a twill lined interior. If you would rather wear this accessory as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag, just adjust the belt size to your desired length.

Dimensions: 7.7"H x 16.9"W x 4.5"D.

C olors: White, black

Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Nylon Shoulder Tote

Those who have traveled with me know my go-to purse is Longchamp’s Le Pliage tote. As a self-proclaimed carrier of big bags, I’m not ashamed to say that my list of essentials is lengthy. This tote effortlessly stores my phone, wallet, laptop, and favorite book— along with a host of other items that many would call unnecessary on the road.

What reviewers are saying: “This is the perfect daily bag that can hold all of your essentials. The bag is very lightweight and has an inside pocket to hold small items. No need to hold a bottle of water in your hand or an umbrella. This bag is deep enough to hold all your key items for the day without being too heavy.”

Dimensions: 11.75"H x 12.25"W x 7.5"D.

Material: Nylon, leather

Colors: Brown, black, navy, red, pink, blue, green, gray, dark green, orange

Madewell The Zip Top Medium Transport Leather Tote

If you’re traveling for work, chances are you’re constantly answering emails and completing last-minute tasks in transit. For this reason, it’s wise to invest in a durable leather bag that’s large enough to fit your laptop. Madewell’s Essential Tote is a crowd favorite, and with a secure zip closure, firm handles, and even a cup holder, we understand why.

Dimensions: 12"H x 11"W x 6"D.

Colors: Brown, black, green

Chloé Marcie Medium Textured-Leather Tote

Some of us like to pack several bags in our suitcases. But if options tend to overwhelm you, and you’d rather just take one purse that will get the job done, Chloé’s best-selling Marcie bag is up for the task. Use the detachable shoulder strap while traveling, and when you reach your destination, carry it by the handles.

Dimensions: 9"H x 13.8"W x 4.3"D.

St. Agni Soft Crescent Bag

“This fanny pack from St. Agni is the perfect size, and I love the color,” says Maguire. The neutral hue of this crescent shaped accessory makes it a great everyday bag no matter what you're packing. If you’re brainstorming your next travel outfit, consider pairing this piece with a gray crew neck, black leggings, and chunky sneakers .

Dimensions: 5.5"H x 11.5"L x 4"D.

Color: Ecru

THE ROW Camdem Leather Tote

Gargantuan? Not quite. Spacious? Most certainly. With a width of over 1 foot, The Row’s Camdem tote is especially fitting for heavy packers. However, despite its large size, there’s no need to worry about losing your smaller items within this purse. The internal zip pocket will keep your tiny things within reach.

Dimensions: 9.1"H x 12.6"W x 49.2"D.

Isabel Marant Nessah Bag

The warm burgundy shade is what initially caught my eye, but what really drew me in was the smooth adjustable strap. I might have to indulge in this Isabel Marant piece for my next trip out to L.A.

Dimensions: 7"H x 11"W x 2"D.

Color: Burgundy

Prada Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag

Prada’s shoulder bag is designed with recycled nylon, but that in no way takes away from its elevated, carry-everywhere aesthetic. The minimalist silhouette and silver hardware are sleek and lightweight for city travels. The removable pouch is a nice (and useful) touch.

Dimensions: 9.4"H x 11.6"W x 3.5"D.

Material: Recycled nylon

Mansur Gavriel Small Zip Tote

Mansur Gavriel's zip tote is made with gorgeous saffiano leather and decorated with a pastel pink hue that is beyond charming. The dimensions are just large enough to carry travel necessities like a passport holder, snacks, and a guidebook without weighing you down. With seven other shades to choose from, perhaps you might even consider purchasing more than one.

Dimensions: 10"H x 12.5"W x 4"D.

Colors: Cream, beige, blue, pink, red, burgundy, green, multicolored

Acne Studios Embossed Faux Patent-Leather Tote

A glossy finish like this is truly hard to resist. Acne Studios’ tote has convinced me that traveling with a patent leather purse will make my next city vacation experience that much better.

Dimensions: 13.8"H x 18.1"W x 6.3"D.

Material: Patent leather

BOTTEGA VENETA Hop Large Intrecciato Leather Tote

The fashion industry’s obsession with slouchy silhouettes isn’t fading anytime soon. Take part in the excitement with Bottega’s iconic tote, woven with the brand’s signature intrecciato technique that’s noticeable wherever you're headed this year.

Dimensions: 14.2"H x 22.4"W x 4.3"D.

Colors: Brown, white, blue

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27 Crossbody Bags You’ll Want to Take Everywhere

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Crossbody bags are an undeniable staple for frequent travelers. They’re supremely useful, with room for essentials like your passport , credit cards, cell phone, and AirPods, and yet still lightweight enough to carry around all day. Plus, with a crossbody bag, your hands are free—which means you can easily snap a photo or look up directions while you’re on the go. We also love how versatile the crossbody bags are, taking you from daytime hikes and city walking tours to evening dinner dates. To help you discover the best crossbody bags to wear this spring and beyond, we rounded up a list of our favorites for travelers, with varying price points and styles. Below, 27 crossbody bags you'll take everywhere, from timeless leather purses and water-resistant camera bags to beach totes with removable straps.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Kristi Kellogg.

Shop our top picks:

• Best everyday bag: Madewell The Sydney crossbody bag
• Best leather bag: Cuyana Mini Double Loop bag
• Best for active days: Lululemon 2L crossbody camera bag
• Best clear bag: Uspeclare clear crossbody bag
• Best mini bag : Quince Italian Leather Phone crossbody
• Best designer bag: YSL Lou Leather camera bag
• Best evening bag: Coach Tabby Pebbled Leathered crossbody
• Best day-to-night bag: Kate Spade Knott small crossbody bag
• Best beach bag: Paravel Small Cabana tote
• Best for parents: MZ Wallace Metro crossbody bag

Best everyday crossbody

Madewell sells some of our favorite crossbody bags—they're well-priced, practical, and chic. This bestseller is made of smooth luxe leather and features both a top handle and a removable crossbody strap. Everyday essentials like your wallet, sunglasses, and keys will stay safe thanks to its magnetic closure. This is that perfect wear-everywhere-with-everything bag you'll reach for time and time again.

Best leather crossbody

Cuyana delivers an elevated crossbody that's practical for daily use with the Mini Double Loop bag. The structured piece has an adjustable strap, which you can even monogram in tiny gold lettering, as well as a magnetic flap closure and interior slip pocket. The Italian leather crossbody is handmade by artisans in Turkey. Shop it in core colors black, ecru, cappuccino, dark olive, or stone.

Best hybrid shoulder bag

This elegant bestseller from Banana Republic fits a ton. Its Italian pebbled leather exterior mixed with the slouchy, half-moon silhouette makes it one of the most versatile bags on our list. Whether you're dressed casually for a museum outing or wearing a dress and heels for a night out, this shoulder bag that doubles as a crossbody is the perfect companion. Versatile bags like this are perfect for quick trips when you're only packing one purse to wear with every outfit.

Best water-resistant crossbody

Made of lightweight, water-resistant fabric, this sporty crossbody from Fjällräven is a smart choice for travelers no matter what's on the agenda. It features two interior mesh pockets, a zippered exterior compartment, and a convenient top carry handle. Plus, at $50 it's one of the most affordable options on our list.

Best for active days

If you love the functionality and effortlessly cool vibe of Lululemon's Everywhere belt bag , you'll equally adore its crossbody camera bag. It's ultra lightweight and made of water-repellent fabric. There's two separate zippered compartments to keep items organized and it's available in a variety of colors like brown, wine berry, black, gray, white, and more.

Best clear crossbody

In need of a cute stadium-approved bag for an upcoming concert or sports game? Here's one you'll actually want to rewear. It's clear, compact, and under $15 on Amazon.

Best for day trips

Dagne Dover's 100 percent vegan neoprene crossbody is ultra lightweight and soft—a crucial detail for travelers carrying this bag around all day. It's the perfect blend of sporty and stylish; wear it to the airport, on a hike, or on a city walking tour. There are several interior pockets to keep travel essentials organized and it's just the right size for day trips.

Best affordable crossbody

If you're need of a crossbody for a camping trip, music festival, or last-minute weekend getaway, this simple black crossbody bag is only $20 on Amazon and is eligible for Prime delivery, meaning you can get your hands on it in just two days. It features a long adjustable strap, an exterior pocket for you phone, and a removable pouch for small items like your AirPods or lip balm .

Best for outdoor adventures

Toss your bug spray, sunscreen, or small water filter in this hands-free option that is perfect for outdoorsy travelers. It fits more than you think—and it features a front sleeve pocket and a soft strap.

Best for commuting

You know Athleta for it's activewear, but don't sleep on its accessories, especially this functional crossbody. Its perfect for a theme park visit, shopping day, or commute, and it's roomy enough to fit a whole lot, including your sunglasses, portable charger, and some snacks. Grab it in oak (pictured), teal, green, dark lapis blue, light gray, or black.

Best durable crossbody

Searching for something that's a little more durable? Look no further than the July Carry Me crossbody , a hardshell bag that's both water-resistant and easy to clean. This practical crossbody comes from Australian luggage brand July—known for designing the world's lightest carry-on . The Carry Me crossbody features two deep pockets, snap closures on each side to keep it secure, and a removable strap that when taken off, turns the bag into a clutch.

Best mini crossbody

This small, chic leather crossbody holds just the essentials—your phone, credit cards, and a lip balm. It can be worn day or night and with just about any outfit, making it a worthy companion on any trip. Not to mention, it won't take up much suitcase space at all.

Best slouchy crossbody

Another favorite of ours from Banana Republic is this slouchy leather staple that can be carried as a traditional handbag or as a crossbody. It features an adjustable shoulder strap, an interior pocket, and a clasp closure. Any of its four shades—black, ivory, brown, or yellow—would be great additions to a capsule wardrobe .

Sleekest crossbody

When you want the practicality of a crossbody but the option of a shoulder bag, this stylish leather number is the perfect solution. It has a flat base for stability, an interior zip pocket and card slots, and a thick adjustable strap. Best of all, it'll look good with both casual and dressier outfits.

Best colorful crossbody

We love this sporty, bright green crossbody from Baggu that's ideal for hiking, camping, or concert-going . It has multiple pockets and doubles as an organizational pouch when you remove the adjustable strap. Plus, it's made of recycled materials and is machine washable.

Best hybrid tote bag

The smaller but equally classic version of Madewell's signature Transport tote is the ideal bag to wear over your shoulder for a day of sightseeing. It goes with every outfit, and it's a bag that we've recommended over and over again for its timeless look and practicality. Another major plus: For how well this lasts, it's at a great price point—delivering the longevity of a high-end bag without the hefty price tag.

Best saddle bag

A newer style from Cuyana is its Double Moon saddle bag. Made of Italian leather, this is an ideal bag for vacation: smart, stylish, and spacious enough to store everything you need while exploring a new city center. In addition to its two main compartments, it also features a back slip pocket and a magnetic closure. This neutral color will match just about everything you pack.

Best slim crossbody

This simple, cream-colored crossbody from Tory Burch is a great bag for day or night. Its slim yet surprisingly spacious, making it a practical bag to pack without taking up a ton of space. It's also available in black, lavender, brown, and a gray-beige shade.

Best designer crossbody

Some occasions call for something a little more special than your everyday crossbody—and YSL's take on the camera bag is an elegant affair. It's crafted with calfskin in a matelassé chevron pattern, and has a wide open interior with an interior side pocket. The designer bag is made in Italy and is available in three shades.

Best evening bag

Coach has stepped up its game over the last few years with new sleek designs on its classic silhouettes. One popular style is the Tabby pebbled leather crossbody bag. The sleek, structured look and stylish gold strap makes it great for evenings out.

Best day-to-night crossbody

Versatility is key in a good crossbody bag. Whether you're museum hopping in New York City or grabbing gelato in Florence , this leather bag from Kate Spade has you covered. It's easy to dress up or down and fits just the right amount of must-haves without being too bulky or heavy to tote around all day or night long. Grab it in classic black or white and it will match everything.

Best for the beach

If you're headed on a vacation—especially a beach vacation —this Paravel tote is a must-pack. It transforms into a crossbody with the cabana strap add-on, and is made out of heavy-duty, water-resistant canvas; plus, it has a vegan leather base and accents, and zip and slip pockets throughout. The bag is customizable, too: It comes in two sizes, four colors, and can be monogrammed.

Shop more of our favorite travel tote bags here .

Best sustainable crossbody

This everyday crossbody has been tested to hold up to 50 pounds—and while you're unlikely to ever fill it with that much weight, it's a comfort to know the strap is durable enough to fit all of your essentials plus a little extra. The bag features a zipper closure to keep your items secure and interior slip pockets for cards or your phone. What we love most: As with everything Rothy's, it's sustainably made and machine washable.

Best crush-proof bag

This crush-proof canister-style crossbody is meant to protect your essentials—like a favorite pair of sunglasses, a tube of hand sanitizer, or a fragile film camera you love to travel with—in a lightweight, streamlined design. The water-resistant interior will also keep everything dry, just in case. What we love most, though, is the chic, retro, monogrammable style—nobody will ever believe it's practical, too.

Best for hiking

Whether you're hiking , biking, or heading out for a game of pickleball, this convenient and compact water bottle holder saves you the hassle of lugging around a heavy, full-size bag. My favorite feature is the insulated and water-resistant interior, but it also comes with multiple pockets, a detachable shoulder strap, and a drawstring closure—a nice touch when you're on the move. It's available in more than a dozen colors and fun patterns.

Best for holding your phone

If you're looking for something that holds your ID, phone, and not much else, say for runs, hikes, or walking around a cruise ship, turn to this slim crossbody from Béis. It's available in the brand's signature beige and black.

Best for parents

MZ Wallace designs some of our top editor-recommended sling bags and duffels . We equally love this lightweight, diamond-quilted crossbody bag that's ideal for busy parents or travelers on the move who need something reliable. There's an exterior zippered pocket for easy access to items like your phone or wallet, and the bag is water-resistant and washable.

None of our reviews are sponsored. We earn a commission when you purchase items through our links.

Home » Travel » Travel Purses

The Best Travel Purses

November 2, 2022

M ake your vacations easier by finding a stylish travel purse that can carry all of your daily essentials comfortably and safely. We tested five different travel bags over several trips and daily errands to find the most durable and aesthetically pleasing purses.

Our top pick is the Sherpani – Vale Crossbody Purse because of its comfortable straps and added security features. We also loved the Fjällräven – Kånken Totepack for its versatility as a tote or backpack and fitted perfectly for a carry-on under a plane seat. Alternatively, we also chose the Patagonia – Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack as our fave lightweight bag option.

Our Top Choices

Best overall

Vale Crossbody Purse

Kånken Totepack

Best fanny pack

Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

The 5 travel purses we tested

Important features to consider, safety features.

Many travel purses come with features that keep your valuables safer. For example, some bags offer locking or carabiner zippers, making it harder to open the bag without alerting you. Or cable loops that lock your bag to a chair. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) blocking pockets prevent someone from stealing your credit card information. Secret pockets or compartments built into some purses offer even more security. While not every trip requires such rigorous security, it may give keep peace of mind.

Style & size

Purses can come in endless styles and designs like cross-body, shoulder, fanny pack, backpack, messenger, tote, or multi-use. Each design is subjective to each person, but we prefer bags that we can use on many different occasions and that is long-lasting. You also want to ensure that the bag style is comfortable to wear during travel.

Travel purses come in various sizes and styles, and your preferences could differ depending on your needs during your trip. For instance, we like wearing backpacks or messengers for our carry-on option because they hold a lot. Everyday walking calls for a small and lightweight option to fight fatigue and keep you comfortable.

Items used during travel can often take more of a beating than products you use at home because you may use them for longer periods over a series of consecutive days. Any travel purse’s materials can affect its durability. Many bags also have anti-slashing fabric made of nylon or polyester that stops thieves from cutting straps or slicing your bag open. Synthetic fabrics can also be water-resistant and add another level of protection. Purses made of faux leather (or polyurethane) are often budget priced. However, be cautious of cheap materials because they tend not to last as long as genuine leather bags.

How we selected & tested:

We selected five different purses of different styles, materials, and sizes under $100. Travel purses come in many variations, and we wanted to test bags of all types, like messengers, crossbody bags, shoulder bags, totes, fanny bags, and backpacks.

We test each bag on several domestic and local trips, on planes, car rides, metros, and walking adventures to evaluate its comfort level and durability. During testing, we evaluated how much each bag could hold daily essentials like wallets, phones, water bottles, jackets, souvenirs, and snacks. We also took note of how effortless it was to carry from daytime touring to nighttime dinners or events.

Sherpani - Vale Crossbody Purse

See Price at Amazon

The Sherpani – Vale Crossbody Purse is our top pick for best travel purses because it can be a crossbody bag, shoulder bag, or messenger bag. It’s fitted with an anti-slash fabric with comfortable and secure straps that make carrying a medium-sized bag while traveling by foot a breeze. At 13.5” x 14” x 4.5”, this bag fits a 24 oz Hydroflask, wallet, iPhone 13 Pro, and a medium-sized jacket easily.

What’s great about this bag is that it’s reversible, too, so you can have different aesthetic choices if you want, and it comes in five different colors. It looks sleek, and we wore it during day trips and nice dinners. The Sherpani – Vale includes plenty of interior and exterior pockets on either side of the folded flap. With a wide opening at the top, you can fit bigger items inside, and the zipper also securely locks into a carabiner making thefts less likely to occur. Read more…

If you’re traveling in sketchy areas, rest assured that the locking cable attachment will securely keep your bag next to you instead of being up for grabs by potential thieves. The only issue we encountered was that some of the bag’s brand lettering started coming off after rigorous wear. However, this was a minor issue. At just under $65, this durable travel purse is perfect for any trip.

Fjällräven - Kånken Totepack

We use the Fjällräven – Kånken Totepack as our daily day trip and carry-on bag because it’s versatile, well-made, holds a lot of items, and still fits under a plane seat with extra room for your feet. Its 36” x 30” x 15” size holds one 14-inch laptop, Bose headphones case, and one travel pillow, and it still has space for snacks and chargers.

The interchangeable straps allow you to wear this bag as a backpack to carry heavy items or as a tote for beach days during vacations. Its water-resistant coating also comes in handy for unexpected rainy days or accidental spills on the plane or at the beach. Additional details like a wide-open top zipper and a foam seat pad are great for securely fitting and holding a laptop. Read more…

The only issue we had with this bag is that it doesn’t have padded straps, and you can’t adjust the straps for fit, which might not fit some people with broader shoulders. However, this wasn’t a dealbreaker for our testers and was still comfortable to wear. While the Fjällräven – Kånken Totepack is the most expensive bag we tested at $95, we think the durability and limited lifetime warranty make it worth the price.

Patagonia - Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

This Patagonia bag is our pick for the best fanny pack because of its lightweight and durable body. This bag may be tiny at 4.75″ x 8″ x 2″, but we could fit a lot more than expected, like a small wallet, Pixel 5 phone, one 20-pack of wet wipes, and even some candies.

The Bluesign design is made of sustainable ripstop and water-repellent fabric durable enough to travel throughout Vietnam for three weeks in various climates. The comfortable and smooth straps adjust to fit waists from 8″ to 36″. This bag can also be worn as a crossbody belt bag too. Read more…

If you need to pack this bag in your luggage, it easily stuffs itself into the front pocket for easy transportation. While traveling abroad, we were worried that the clasp location would welcome thieves to unbuckle our bag, but we didn’t have any real issues. We found that the durability and lightweight features of the Patagonia – Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack, along with its $35 price tag, were a great deal.

Mundi - RFID Crossbody Bag

The Mundi – RFID Crossbody Bag is a wallet-style purse with four large accordion pockets, 12 card slots, and more interior and exterior pockets. Thanks to the adjustable straps, this bag doubles as a shoulder bag and a crossbody bag. This bag is for someone who wants to carry fewer items. Its small size (8.5″ x 5.5″ x 1.5″) makes it easy to carry all day long if you need your wallet and phone (and maybe a lipstick or two).

One issue we had with the Mundi bag was the imitation leather material. Unlike the photo on the website that mimicked an authentic, supple leather texture, the bag is a lot shinier and softer in person, which makes me question its durability over time. We foresee the material ripping easily. The adjustable straps also get stuck on the rubbery material frequently. Read more…

It’s also equipped with radio-frequency identification (RFID) blocking pockets that protect your card information. This bag is helpful if you want to pare down your belongings to your wallet and phone. But if you want to wear multiple bags during your trip, you will need to transfer credit cards and IDs one by one (instead of simply moving your wallet) to different bags, which could be slightly annoying.

However, we do like that the sleek and minimal style is easy to use for day trips to dressier dinners. If you’re looking for a more affordable, small wallet purse, then this $20 bag is made for light wear.

Travelon - Metro Bag

Travelon purses are popular because they offer many security features like anti-slash fabrics, RFID blocking pockets, and locking zippers–the Travelon – Metro Bag is no different. What was our original front runner during our tests ended up flopping due to the shoddy quality.

This small-sized bag measures 2” x 8.25” x 5.25” and works as a crossbody bag and a fanny bag. While we liked the minimalist style and myriad of pockets for organization, we didn’t like the bulky body and stiff straps that were difficult to adjust. Read more…

The main issue we had with this bag was the flimsy snap clips. There’s a locking feature on the snap clips; however, it’s not secure enough to make a difference and makes it easier to unhook the snap. During a test trip wearing the Travelon bag as a crossbody bag, the snap clips unlatched itself and fell to the floor. The Travelon – Metro Bag had a lot of potential, but we wouldn’t recommend this bag because it felt unsafe to wear.

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The Best Crossbody Bags for Easy Travel

Keep your belongings safe and accessible while traveling with these lightweight, stylish purses.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

When it comes to carrying a purse while traveling, a crossbody bag is your best bet to stay hands free while keeping your belongings secure on your body. But not all crossbody travel bags are the same, and it's important to consider what matters most to you, whether that's style, accessibility, safety, spaciousness, comfort or other factors.

The good news is that we've rounded up the best options for every style preference, budget and travel need.

Our top picks

Best Overall Crossbody Travel Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag large 2l.

Best Value Crossbody Travel Bag

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

Best Lightweight Crossbody Travel Bag

Vera bradley featherweight crossbody purse.

Best Sling Crossbody Travel Bag

Baggallini central park sling crossbody.

Best Leather Crossbody Travel Bag

Leatherology meadow large satchel.

Best Anti-Theft Crossbody Travel Bag

Travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Best Waterproof Crossbody Travel Bag

Nite ize runoff waterproof hip pack.

Best Modular Crossbody Travel Bag

Athleta revive modular crossbody bag.

Best Crossbody Travel Bag With Bottle Holder

Beis the sport sling.

Best Spacious Crossbody Travel Bag

Lululemon all night festival bag 5l.

You can learn more about how we chose these styles and what to consider as you shop at the end of this article, but first, here's everything you need to know about the best crossbody bags for travel.

Best Travel Backpacks | Best Luggage | Best Carry-On Luggage | Best Underseat Luggage | Best Tote Bags | Best Weekender Bags | Best Duffel Bags | Best Fanny Packs | Best Packing Cubes | Best Travel Gear

This fan-favorite belt bag has a loyal following of both men and women (including several GH staffers!) thanks to its comfortable fit, lightweight materials and spacious interior — all for a reasonable price. The nylon fabric is water-resistant, while the strap is fully adjustable so you can get a close fit around your torso (or waist if you prefer to wear it as a fanny pack).

Just note that unlike some crossbody bags that sit at the hip, this one lies flat against your torso, so it's not quite as easy to access the contents. Though its smaller 1L version is more popular, we think this larger size is great for travel because it can hold more while you're on the go.

Dimensions: 8.3" x 2.2" x 5.7" | Colors: Over 15 options

Despite its low cost, this bag wowed our experts and consumer testers with its comfort, style and spaciousness. In fact, it can even hold a water bottle along with a phone, wallet, keys and other essentials — all with room to spare.

One tester told us, "I love how lightweight it is and how much I can fit inside it!" Beyond that, the curved shape helps it feel comfortable at your side, even when you're walking for miles. Though its materials aren't quite as luxe as pricier bags, it still looks sleek and neutral enough to wear with a variety of outfits.

Dimensions: 11" x 6.7" x 3.9" | Colors: 7 options

Though the style looks and feels substantial, it's s urprisingly lightweight thanks to its performance fabrics that also happen to be water-repellent. Each bag features a quilted design and is easily packable so it doesn't take up valuable space in your suitcase.

The bag is on the larger size for a crossbody with one big main compartment, plus a small zippered pocket in the front so you can quickly find your essentials. It's also worth noting that the adjustable strap is longer than some other crossbodies, meaning it can also be carried as a low-hanging shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 12" x 122" x 4" | Colors: 7 options

Sling bags are ideal for anyone who wants the functionality of a backpack with the wearability of a crossbody bag. This one in particular is made with smart travel features, including RFID protection and an extra strap to stop pickpocketing.

It also has plenty of compartments, including ones on the back (facing your body) and an easily accessible pocket in the front. One GH staffer that swears by this bag saying, "It's super comfortable and feels secure to wear while in big cities or crowded areas."

Dimensions: 7" x 12" x 2.5" | Colors: 10 options

For those who prefer leather bags over ones with synthetic performance fabrics, this fashion-forward pick is great for a more elevated luxury look, especially when you're dressed to impress on vacation.

While most stylish leather crossbodies have sky-high designer price tags, this one is on the more affordable end. Worn by celebrities like Serena Williams and Kristen Bell, it's not as lightweight as other travel crossbodies, but our testers say it's not too heavy, either. It has two zippered pockets, each with organizational compartments inside. It's also available in smaller sizes at lower costs.

Dimensions: 10.25" x 7.25" x 4" | Colors: 9 options

If safety is a big concern for your trip, consider a bag that has smart features to keep your belongings protected. This one in particular is equipped with five standout anti-theft features , including zippers that clip closed to prevent pickpocketing, slash-resistant fabric, slash-resistant straps, RFID-blocking pockets and a strap clip that lets you secure it to a chair when you're dining.

Travelon makes a variety of anti-theft crossbody bags , but this one is Amazon's Choice with nearly 10,000 reviews and an average 4.6-star rating. It has a slim design with interior pockets to carry essentials like your passport, phone and wallet, though it doesn't hold quite as much as other styles.

Dimensions: 8.5" x 8.5" x 2" | Colors: 15 options

If you'll be traveling in wet conditions — including going underwater — consider a waterproof pouch that you can wear as a crossbody. This one even has a waterproof zipper and is designed to keep your contents dry ; you can even carry your phone and money into a pool while wearing it! A clear front screen allows you to use a touch-screen phone without taking it out. Plus, the crossbody strap can adjust to be worn as as a belt bag.

Dimensions: 8.58" x 4.92" x 1.77" | Colors: 2 options

If you prefer a smaller crossbody but worry that it's not big enough, consider this unique style from Athleta that has add-on compartments in the strap.

The main pouch is a foam-like material with a water-repellent finish and it lies flat against the body. The strap contains pouches designed to hold sunglasses and AirPods. As an added bonus, the strap is removable and can be attached onto other bags, while the pouch can be used as an organizer inside larger purses.

Dimensions: Not listed | Colors: 2 options

For those that always carry around a water bottle, this sporty sling bag has a hidden bottle pouch that you can tuck away whenever you don't need it.

Besides its two zippered compartments, it also has a microfiber-lined pocket in the front for your cell phone or sunglasses. Plus, there's a small zippered compartment in the back in case you need your phone or other essentials kept safe. It's not super spacious, but it has card organizers inside a zippered pocket in case you just want to bring a credit card and ID without a full wallet.

Dimensions: 6.7" x 8.2" x 2.7" | Colors: 3 options

Like a modern-day messenger, this style has a wide opening so you can easily sift through everything you packed inside. Once it's zippered shut, the top folds over and secures with a magnet. (Just note that Lululemon warns the magnet can interfere with certain electronic devices and bank cards.)

One GH staffer said she uses it every day and noted that the flap "feels secure while commuting or traveling and allows for a quick retrieval for items inside." Like other Lululemon bags , it has a lightweight and water-resistant performance fabric.

Dimensions: 7.9" x 3.9" x 8.3" | Colors: 3 options

Dange Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag (Extra Small)

Available in five sizes, this style's largest options make perfect weekender bags while the smaller ones are more ideal as crossbody purses. This extra-small size still has a five-liter capacity, making it spacious enough to carry on-the-go essentials, even holding a small tablet or notebook.

We especially love this one's organizational features: inside the main zippered compartment are three pockets and a key leash, while the outside has a phone sleeve for easy access (though keep in mind: It's not zippered, so it's less secure). We also love its soft neoprene fabric and wide straps to support a heavier load.

Dimensions: 9" x 4.75" x 6.25" | Colors: 9 options

MZ Wallace Crossbody Belt Bag

When fashion is the first and foremost priority, consider a splurge-worthy style like this quilted belt bag. Despite its large size, it's still fairly lightweight thanks to its nylon material. It's also functional for travel with two zippered compartments and built-in pockets for organization.

We love its versatility thanks to its three detachable straps: Two wide ones for your waist or across the body and one chain strap to dress it up. Online reviewers call it "perfect for international travel," with one saying she found it especially useful on a trip to London and Paris.

Dimensions: 10" x 8.5" x 2" | Colors: 4 options

Bandolier Crossbody Bag

For a simple, chic and timeless style, this small crossbody is described as a "sleek look with a ton of functionality packed in" by one GH analyst who personally uses it. For starters, the adjustable strap can be swapped for other straps from the brand , plus the bag can expand a bit to pack in more when you need it. The flap secures with a magnet (there's no zipper) and it's made with real pebbled leather for an elegant look that can be dressed up.

Dimensions: 8" x 6" x 3" | Colors: 3 options

Madewell The Medium Transport Tote

Combining the capacity of a tote with the convenient strap of a crossbody, Madewell's bag is a tester favorite thanks to its supple leather and spacious interior.

A GH analyst that carries this bag while traveling said it's especially useful if you're going to be shopping so you don't have to carry around extra bags as you explore new cities. It's also ideal if you need to carry a bulky load, like an umbrella, water bottle and layers of clothing, but be aware that there's no zippered closure for protection.

Dimensions: 12.25" x 11" x 5.5" | Colors: 2 options

Coach Willow Bucket Bag

If you're willing to invest in a well-made crossbody, this luxury bag from Coach looks stylish and uses high-end construction. One GH staffer that recommended this style said, "I own a variety of Coach bags and they continue to stay in great condition," adding that the Coach Outlet is a great option for more affordable versions.

She likes this bag in particular because of how roomy it is, calling it "just the right size." Just note that it has multiple sections, some of which are unzippered, making contents less secure while traveling.

Dimensions: 9.25" x 8.75" x 4.25" | Color: Black

How we chose the best crossbody travel bags

The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab are passionate about finding the best products at the crossroads of fashion and function, constantly testing to find apparel and accessories that perform well, feel (and look) great and last for years to come.

To find the best crossbody bags for travel, we considered our staff's personal favorites from the dozens of styles that we've tested in our Lab and personally tried out in real life. We also asked other Good Housekeeping editors and analysts to weigh in with their recommendations, plus we performed market research using our product expertise to find new and popular styles from brands we know and love.

How to shop for travel-friendly crossbody bags

The one thing all crossbody bags have in common is that they're worn across your body. Other than that, here's what to consider when choosing the best crossbody bag for your next getaway:

• Size: Smaller dimensions typically mean the bag is more totable, but will hold less. Alternatively, larger bags may fit more inside but can be cumbersome to wear, depending on your type of travel. Besides the dimensions, also consider the capacity: 1-2 liters will be smaller, while 5 liters will be more spacious yet still comfortable to wear.
• Compartments and pockets : Some crossbody bags have one main compartment, while others have several compartments to help you stay organized. Also check for pockets inside the compartments, including pouches to hold your phone, keys and cards for easy access.
• Closures: Most crossbody bags for travel have zippers to keep everything safe and secure inside. However, some have magnet closures and others have no closures at all. Consider how secure you need your belongings to be and whether you'll be at risk for things falling out or being pickpocketed.
• Materials: Many styles are made of synthetic performance fabrics (like nylon and polyester) because they're lightweight and water-resistant. If you prefer a more luxurious bag, opt for leather (or even faux leather). Also keep in mind that bags with metal hardware will be heavier to carry around.
• Adjustability: To ensure your crossbody bag will fit comfortably around your torso, check for an adjustable strap so you can find the right fit. Some crossbody bags are also convertible, meaning you can change the straps or change how you wear them on your body.
• Packability: If you'll be packing your crossbody bag in your suitcase, consider opting for a lighter and thinner style instead of one that's more structured. If you do prefer a structured bag for style, consider wearing while en route to your destination or filling it with smaller items (like socks and underwear) in the suitcase so you don't waste valuable packing space.
• Safety features: Certain trips require you to pay closer attention to the risk of people that prey on tourists. In these cases, look for anti-theft features like secure zippers, straps that can attach onto your seat and RFID-blocking technology.
• Appearance: Last, but certainly not least, it's okay to choose a travel bag based on how it looks without sacrificing other important features. Consider what you'll be doing and wearing throughout your trip. Some of our recommendations are especially good at transitioning from daytime exploring to nighttime dining while matching a wide range of outfits.

Why you can trust Good Housekeeping

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of the Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has been reviewing travel bags for over 10 years. Lexie also oversees the annual Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards and regularly reports on categories like the best luggage and the best backpacks . She has personally used many of the crossbody bags featured in this article.

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

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The 15 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Vacation

The hack for easy, breezy adventuring.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

Don't underestimate the power of a good travel purse. The best ones make your trips all the more seamless, whether that means easier access to essentials in security lines or less spillage of snacks. While these bags are as practical and functional as it gets, they can also be stylish. And that's where we come in.

Keeping all of that in mind, we found the 15 best travel purses that eagerly await your next adventure. And if you don't have a trip planned, well, this is your excuse to satiate that wanderlust.

Travelon Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

For a bag that foils the pickpockets, this simple shoulder bag is a solid choice. From the slash-resistant construction to the locking compartments to the RFID-blocking card and passport slots, it's as secure as it gets.

FP Collection Hudson Sling Bag

Free People's sling bag is beloved by many, and for good reason, too. Choose from seven different hues for a bag that suits you, with an adjustable woven strap and exterior zip pockets for practicality.

Baggallini Take Two Bryant Crossbody

Stay protected on the go with a crossbody that gives you two RFID-protected card slots. This will prevent anybody from scanning your cards and stealing your personal information as they pass by.

Calpak Stevyn Mini Crossbody Bag

You have probably seen Calpak's carry-ons, but don't sleep on the brand's mini bags. This one has a water-resistant exterior and zippered pockets to safely store items.

Golden Goose Star Shoulder Strap Bag

For a travel bag that's ultra-cool and undeniably unique, look no further than Golden Goose. With an adjustable shoulder strap, inside pocket, and external pocket for your phone, this bag was made for travel and weekend wear. The playful pops of color and sneaker keychain make this a standout select.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Lululemon's convertible belt bag style can be worn as a fanny pack or crossbody, making this petite purse incredibly versatile. Featuring a water-repellent fabric, an exterior zip pocket, and a few interior ones, this bag packs a punch.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Dagne Dover's neoprene duffel is a durable, lightweight design that will go everywhere and anywhere with you. Aside from being entirely vegan (which we love), it also has some hidden assets. Think: laptop sleeve, dust bag, shoe bag, and more. Pick from a variety of sizes and colors.

Alo Yoga Utility Crossbody Bucket Bag

Exterior mesh pockets make for quick access to your belongings, while a drawstring cinches for security. Zippered pockets and an adjustable carrying strap finish off the features of this bucket bag.

JW PEI Aylin Canvas Crossbody Bag

This Oprah-approved crossbody is perfect for the person who's looking to carry their phone and a few credit cards. It doesn't hold much, but it holds all your bare essentials. Perfect for quick trips out and about.

Mansur Gavriel Vegan Apple Leather Mini Crossbody

While we love Mansur's totes, here the brand takes its thoughtful craftsmanship to the crossbody silhouette. The Italian apple-based material (yes, you read that right) keeps the style sustainable so you can shop this bag with a clean conscience.

Longchamp Le Pliage

Made from recycled canvas, you've surely spotted Longchamp's signature style at the airport or train station before. The exterior wipes clean, while the interior features two slip pockets for organization. One of the best things about this bag is that it can be folded into the size of a paperback book.

TUMI Asra Shoulder Bag

It's to no surprise that Tumi, a purveyor of high-quality travel products, has just delivered one of the chicest purses for your next trip. The nylon construction is super easy to clean, and multiple pockets (including a zip one) make for ample storage.

Paravel Mini Cabana Tote

Sustainability is at the core of Paravel's collections, constructed from plastic water bottles. Attach the crossbody strap for hands-free carrying, or keep as a top-handle top. Multiple pockets stow your smaller accessories.

PAK Rêve The Origin PAK Backpack

You can rest assured that this nylon backpack, founded by a travel writer, was essentially made for any and all trips. Between the front pocket that unzips into a jacket sling and oversize side pockets for extra-large water bottles, every detail that went into this bag aims to make your life easier.

Dorothee Schumacher Raffia Shoulder Bag

If you're headed on a beach vacation, this raffia bag from Dorothee Schumacher brings the boho chic vibes in functional fashion. The adjustable shoulder strap makes for easy carrying, and concealed magnetic fastening keeps your possessions secured.

Gaby Keiderling is a New York–based writer working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features. She also covers celebrity style for Esquire 's “Get Ready with Me” franchise. Her work can also be seen in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar , and more. Sometimes you can spot her around the West Village, out on a walk with her dog, Sneakers.

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Home » Gear » The VERY Best Travel Purses To Keep Your Gear Organised In 2024!

The VERY Best Travel Purses To Keep Your Gear Organised In 2024!

A great trip is all about the details, and this is one I hate! Your boarding pass always picks the worst time to disappear, especially if it’s crammed into one of 50 different side compartments in a rush to get through security.

I always like to wear my heaviest clothing through the airport to save luggage space, which generally means  a lot  of pockets. I got sick of searching through every nook and cranny of my raincoat and day bag every time I had to show a travel document or pay for a coffee, so I strapped the essentials to my waist and took off a new traveller. Life-changing I tell ya!

The best travel purses turn you from a frantic pedestrian into a prepared thespian, beating TSA records and sitting down at your destination without breaking a sweat. Whether you are shopping for your daily commute or a backpacking adventure, keeping your shit together (physically and mentally) is easy with a travel purse!

Full of handy pockets (more pockets!) and surprising features, travel purses can function as carry-on bags, day packs, wallets, and more. All these travel purses are all carry-on friendly and easy to throw over one shoulder or have just in your hand.

Heading on an adventure these days means jumping through more hoops than a toddler on a sugar high! From check-in to take off you’ve got to present enough bits of paperwork to destroy a small forest! Let alone the amount of caffeine this process requires to get through! So, there’s a fair bit of juggling passports, visas, health forms and credit cards going on before you can finally sit back in your seat and relax!

So, what’s the solution? With some planning, a decent travel purse will keep everything you need organised, safe and close at hand. When you hit the road you want to be travelling with the least amount of bulk as possible whilst having your essentials exactly where you need them without making them vulnerable.

So what exactly makes a purse built for travel? Any purse can be called a travel purse, but only certain features truly make your travel days easier.

You’ll want to have a storage area for important paperwork and documents, to work as a wallet and also somewhere to safely keep your phone too. Travel purses also come in different shapes, sizes and wearability. Some are pretty minimal just for the essentials whilst others can double as a carry on bag and hold extra items like a compact camera and an iPad. Some are over the shoulder bags or cross-body bags whilst other purses are designed to be able to fit in a pocket or a larger bag.

Above all else, any quality travel purse is built to last for thousands of miles.

We searched far and wide for travel purses that are uniquely capable of holding the essentials without adding too much weight and bulk to your setup. So let’s get down to business and find the perfect purse for travel for you.

Quick Answers: What Are The Best Travel Purses?

• #1 Pacsafe Go Anti Theft Purse –  Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag
• #2 Osprey Arcane Pouch –  Arcane Zip Pouch Medium
• #3 Kodiak Leather Purse –  Leather Purse
• #4 Mahi Leather Classic Vegan Purse –  The Classic Purse (Vegan)
• #5 Harber London Crossbody –  Crossbody Bags
• #6 Harber London iPad Sleeve –  Ipad Sleeve

Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

• > Slash-proof travel purse
• > Five muted colour options

Arcane Zip Pouch Medium

• > Covered by a lifetime guarantee
• > Uses recycled plastic

Leather Purse

• > Zippered exterior pocket
• > Heavy-duty nylon liner

The Classic Purse (Vegan)

• > Eco-friendly travel ensemble
• > Waterproof lining and YKK zippers

Crossbody Bags

• > More extensive travel arsenal
• > Enthusiastic metal buckle

Ipad Sleeve

• > Space for an additional keyboard, stylus
• > Ability to fold into a stand

The Best Travel Purses That Money Can Buy

Before you spend your hard earn cash, you’ve got to find the perfect place to store it right! The great thing about these travel purses is that they can double as a daily carry for your essential items as well as organising your important documents on those busy and stressful travel days.

We’ve scoured the market to find the most durable, sustainable, high tech, and good looking travel purses on today’s market. So, it’s up to you to decide which one will serve as your man bag! Let’s take a took and see if you can find the best vacation purse for your trip.

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#1 Pacsafe Go Anti Theft Purse –  Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

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Now we all know that travelling can be a magical and mind-altering experience, but let’s also not be naive and forget that travelling around the world with a heap of cash, expensive phones and western passports doesn’t make us a target. “what is the best purse to use when traveling?” Well, it’s the one that keeps your gear the safest for us!

Let them come. Slasher and dasher, the evil twins of prancer and vixen, frequent every city south of the North Pole and they can be an absolute nightmare when it comes to your trip. Protect your hard-earned gear with a slash-proof travel purse that has plenty of tricks up its sleeve and keeps those pickpockets in places like Rome , at bay!

This compact crossbody bag has enough storage for things like a small camera and a tablet alongside your documents, so it’s great not just for transiting through an airport but for those days out exploring too. Instead of hiding your stuff under your shirt and being all uncomfortable and fumbling around, with the Pacsafe slash-proof bag and shoulder strap, you can be confident to wander around with your gear in a convenient location.

Pacsafe have nailed the practical, rugged, and quality categories to bring home a theft-proof purse that fits into any adventure and also look pretty swish at the same time, especially in the coastal blue and yellow colourway which is a personal favourite.  

If you’re travelling with a larger camera and laptop and are looking for something just as secure but with a bit more storage, why not check out the Pacsafe Venturesafe X 12L backpack as well.

Our team loved this bag and felt it was the perfect travel purse for keeping your stuff safe, especially in high-risk areas or even as a great beach bag . They loved that they could throw inside all their valuables, including a small camera, and walk around with absolute confidence that they were safe. They also felt that the bag still looked pretty good considering all the wild and crazy features packed into it!

#2 Osprey Arcane Pouch –  Arcane Zip Pouch Medium

From the largest backpacking bags to itsy bitsy bum backs (fanny packs for the Americans), Osprey makes the best in the business. It’s a company we’ve trusted to keep our gear safe and organised on many trips. So what you get here with this travel purse is a take on the concept from a serious and well-respected adventure company and with that comes their lifetime guarantee.

Another bonus is that no animals were harmed in the making of this vegan zip pouch and instead it uses recycled plastic to create this miniature masterpiece, so great for the environment too. Don’t expect to fit an overnight flight’s worth of necessities inside the Arcane pouch, in fact, it’s pretty minimalistic. You’ll find space for your travel documents, charging cords, headphones, phone and keys, as well as efficient credit card storage. 

The nice thing is that it comes in a few different sizes so you can shuffle through and find the perfect version to suit your needs and travel style.  

Are you a vegan traveller looking for other great cruelty-free products for your trip? Check out our rundown of the best vegan backpacks .

Our team loved that this purse was pretty minimalist and low-key, for them it meant they could fit in all they needed without overpacking and carrying more than was necessary. They loved how flat this thing was due to it’s minimalist design and so how easily it could fit into a pocket or compartment of their bag without bulking it out.

#3 Kodiak Leather Purse –  Leather Purse

This leather travel purse puts on a masterclass of long-lasting efficiency right by your side and is the smallest bag in the Koyuk collection. The three straps balance out the load and mean despite them being pretty thin, they’re still super comfy even when the bag is fully laden. The stylish look also means it’s a travel purse you can bring out with you even when you’re dressed up and it won’t look out of place.

There’s a convenient zippered exterior pocket at the front, this comes in super handy when you need to grab something quickly like spare change or mints. The large main compartment has an additional heavy-duty nylon liner giving your gear inside an extra layer of protection from the elements as well as from scratching. There are also 4 cardholder slots too for easy access without having to get your wallet out.

Synthetic materials are bridging the gap, but nothing lasts longer than leather. This Kodiak clutch could be the last travel purse you ever have to shop for. The top-grain grows a personality by bending, creasing and subtly shifting colours over time. 

If you’re err, into leather, then check out the selection of leather travel bags on offer and see which one suits your style best.

Our team felt this was the best traveling purse for those wanting something lowkey but with a surprising amount of storage space whilst looking pretty fly! They loved that it had that traditional purse look and feel to it, which combined with the leather material made it feel like something they could take out for a fancy meal at night and exploring a new city during the day.

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#4 Mahi Leather Classic Vegan Purse –  The Classic Purse (Vegan)

If you’re looking for something super minimal and compact enough to fit the essentials without taking up too much space, the Mahi Mahi cork purse might just be the one. This pocket-sized vegan offering functions more like a traditional purse or wallet and can easily be thrown inside a larger bag or even be used every day as your main wallet.

What is really unique about this purse is the materials it’s made from. With a cork exterior, it’s not only a head-turner but it’s a sustainable and vegan material. Don’t worry though, because on the inside there is a waterproof material lining it so all your gear will stay safe whatever the weather.

For such a small offering there’s plenty of organisation inside, with three pockets and five compartments, you’ll never be left digging through your wallet again!

Mahi has cork day bags and luggage that can work alongside this vegan purse to present an eco-friendly travel ensemble capable of taking a beating. You can also give this bag a personal touch with a custom monogram. Each option is handmade to order and built to last.   

If you’re into the style of the Mahi Mahi but you’re looking for something a bit different, check out the selection of travel wallets on offer too as they offer some similar features in a smaller size.

Our team loved this wallet style purse and how low profile it is and how easily that meant it fit inside their bags or even smaller cross body packs. They loved the unique cork material which they found to be durable and hard wearing as well as looking stylish. The inner zippered sections and card slots were also a stand out feature for organisation too.

#5 Harber London Crossbody –  Crossbody Bag

Let’s be honest, we all wanna look stylish when we’re getting about and travel purses should we say, just sometimes ain’t it when you’re trying to have a bit of swag. In fact, many of them can look a bit geeky and we’re not about that! But who says style and function can’t come together?!

Whether you’re getting about around town or crossing continents on an intrepid adventure, this Harber bag has you covered for all eventualities! With its stylish brown leather interior, this versatile bag won’t look out of place wherever you take it.

But it’s not style over substance either. There is enough room to fit your passports, documents, notebooks, phone, headphones and wallet easily in here and with the wide but soft strap it all sits on your body comfortably and within easy access. It’s a great accessory to add to your travel pack as it doesn’t take up any unnecessary room for the versatility it offers.

It’s the perfect grab bag for a day or night out when you don’t need to drag along 20l worth of gear! It doesn’t just look the part either, with the hardwearing leather finish and the tough metal buckle, this hardworking bag is ready to sit by your side for decades.

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a stylish icon when you’re on the road and you’re looking for some extra special gear, then check out the extensive line of Harber travel gear on offer.

Our team felt this was the best small travel purse for those wanting to look super stylish on the road. They felt the cross-body style was both comfortable and added an extra sense of security. They loved the size and felt it was perfect for keeping their essentials without becoming heavy.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

#6 Harber London iPad Sleeve –  Ipad Sleeve

Hey, we did say Harber had an extensive collection and here’s another one for you! It can be tempting to bring along the laptop but why not give it a rest, pack light and instead bring along an iPad or tablet so you can sit back and focus on some cocktails at sunset rather than emails!

With space for an additional keyboard, stylus, and the ability to fold into a stand, your sleeve will mean it’s a great compromise for lightweight travellers looking to escape the office whilst still having the ability to check in here and there when needed.

There is no such thing as too much protection for your expensive electronic equipment. The stylish but functional design of the sleeve means that you can either chuck it in a larger bag or carry it around on its own without worrying about dropping it! The hardwearing and weather-resistant leather exterior also means it’s protected from a light shower and the woollen interior is scratch-free.

Even though it’s primarily an iPad sleeve, the generous space of the interior means that you can easily slip inside a passport and documents whilst travelling through the airport.

Our team loved this purse for professional use when you need to carry your laptop plus a few extra items on a business trip, commuting or between buildings at work. They found the materials not only to be stylish and good-looking but durable and great at protecting their gear too. They felt the purse was great on it’s own or combined with a larger bag for extra protection.

Still bringing your laptop? Check out the best laptop backpacks for travel instead!

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Final Thoughts on The Best Travel Purses

From glorified wallets to full-on satchels, you just got an inside look at the best handbags for day-to-day wear as well as the best travel purse for international travel. Whatever you’ve got planned, these purses will make sure all your important documents stay safe and organised!

As you can see from the broad spectrum of choices on this list, we’ve got more purse styles to choose from than Harrods! That means your perfect bag is somewhere out there, just waiting for you to come along and rescue it from travel obscurity! Do the right thing and it might become one of your favourite pieces of travel gear .

Take this list and cross-reference these purse options with your plans. Need something pretty versatile that can accompany you not only on a night out but also on the red eye the next morning? Or are you a pretty minimalist traveller looking for the most compact way to keep all your shit organised? Maybe you’re just a hardcore traveller who just wants to make sure your passport doesn’t get nicked! Well, there’s some great travel purses for every need here.

Pairing up your travel purse with a day bag like the Aer Tech Pack 2 and a larger backpack or suitcase, or even as a complement to one-bag travel, is a great way to get the most out of your setup. These specific travel tools aren’t made to be stuffed full or to serve as your only bag for an entire trip, but as an ideal way to keep your passport, wallet and documents organised, safe and handy whilst travelling.

Hopefully, you’ll find the right bag from this list of best travel purses for 2024 that will keep the crucial things handy and help your trip set off without a hitch. You’ll be sipping Champaign and watching movies at 32,000 ft before you know it!

Need more ideas? Check out the best travel organisers too.

Aiden Freeborn

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Travel Handbags: 7 Best Travel Purses

Picture a glorious spring day in Paris.

I’m sitting in a café with my friend Susanne. She loops the strap of her handbag over the back of her chair. You know the gesture – you’ve probably done it a hundred times.

She’ll never see that handbag again.

There are things you do with your traveling hand ba – and then there are things you don’t do, like loop it over the back of your chair.

But before we get into the  how  of handbag handling, let’s look at the  what.  What follows are the best travel handbags for women (at least, I think so!)

THE BEST TRAVEL HANDBAGS FOR LADIES – A BUYER’S GUIDE AND COMPARISON CHART

The 7 best travel purse options .

The table above lists the best traveling handbags for women – but it’s just an outline. I’ve expanded on a few individual models below because yes, you need the best travel purse ever. 

How do you find great ladies travel handbags and which is the best travel handbag for you?

Standard-sized travel purse for women

If you need something to fit all of the essentials in but isn’t cumbersome to carry around on your travels then I’ve got some excellent options for you. These travel purses are the ideal size, have nifty pockets, and are anti-theft.

• Don’t let the rain keep you from exploring. This Baggallini crossbody is also a stylish travel purse, light and water-resistant, so you can take advantage of wet travel days without worrying about your valuables and electronics getting drenched
• It comes with a removable RFID-resistant wallet you can pull out of the middle of the bag. For me, this feels safer than having an outside zippered pocket for my cards.
• It has oodles of pockets (including one for a water bottle or umbrella), and wonderful color options if you happen to be tired of your basic brown, grey or black travel handbag. That all makes it one of the best purses for traveling in Europe (or anywhere else) when youre looking for more of an urban vibe.

• Anything I say about this bag is going to be heavily biased... because this is my all-time favorite of all crossbody purses – my best purse for international travel!
• I have two of these, in different colors and sizes. This slightly more compact version has a few extra goodies, like a front zipper that secures under a little loop, a feature I love.
• Like most Pacsafe bags, it’s slash-proof, which gives me extra peace of mind in busy city centers, and the pocket with credit card slots features RFID-blocking technology.
• My iPad fits perfectly in the CS200, but the Gii is much roomier: if you have a DSLR, it will easily fit. I carry my Macbook Air in it. So I use the CS200 for daily sightseeing, but the Gii if Im working.
• The bag itself is a lightweight travel purse: you can fill it without feeling like youve overpacked. I have traveled all over the world with this, which is why it is my go-to as one of the best handbags for travelling oversea

• Im not sure I would normally include this among shoulder bags for women – it is more of a messenger bag than an anti-theft purse but... Ive added it to the list because I bought one myself (small size) and used it for a month as I traveled through Eastern Europe. Had I gone for the large I might have even used it as a carry-on.
• It has a waterproof flap (rain-tested in Romania by me), enough pockets to keep me happy, especially the external one (which is not available in the XS size). The key strap was also useful given the two cavernous main compartments. Plus compartments for pens, and an internal water bottle.
• I absolutely loved this bag! The wide shoulder strap is so comfortable I loaded the Timbuk2 with plenty – but my back was fine at the end of each day. Im still addicted to my Pacsafes, but this one gets as many kudos from me.

Small travel purse options – the best travel handbags for Europe

The above four are ‘normal-sized’ travel shoulder bags and will carry pretty much anything you need, even though some bags are smaller than others.

BUT –  you may need something smaller . If you’re flying within Europe or on a discount airline, you may find you’re only allowed a single carry-on, handbag included.

The best handbag for flying is a small travel handbag: you can slip it into your carry-on if you’re not allowed a second bag on the flight.

The best small travel purse is the one you’re allowed to take with you on the plane!

• Here I go with Pacsafe again! The Metrosafe LS100 is a popular anti-theft bag and among the best travel purses for Europe, safe and stylish, if youre looking for something small and discreet.
• Its smaller and more compact than its counterparts, but you still get all the great anti-theft features (RFID-blocking pocket, locking zippers, and slash-proof fabric) Pacsafe is famous for.
• Its also water resistant, which makes it ideal for autumn wear in Europe when the skies open up. Its not large, but you can fit a lot into it – most of what you need for the day. No laptop but you can fit in a mini tablet. I like mine – I unfortunately have one of the older versions and dont like the wine color but these new tints are much nicer.

• Travelon bags are much-loved for their anti-theft properties and their affordable price. This is one of the more popular small travel bags: it holds everything you really need (passport, phone, credit cards), and encourages (or maybe forces) you to leave the extras at the hotel. This makes it a great purse for European travel.
• Both the strap and purse body are made of slash-proof mesh, the straps and zippers lock, and the inner compartment blocks RFID thieves. And I know you could buy an LED light anywhere, but I love that this travelling purse comes with one attached. This is an ideal lightweight travel handbag to slip into your luggage or use for the basics - passport, money, cards, phone...

• This looks like a rather fun little travel purse for ladies and one of the few on this list I havent tried for myself. But I probably shall.
• Its an anti-theft cross-body bag, so has everything going for it in a travel handbag for women, with a steel cable in the strap and anti-slash protection on the sides.
• Its an anti-theft cross-body bag, so has everything youd want in a travel handbag for women, with a steel cable in the strap and anti-slash protection on the sides. It also has RFID blocking for both the lined internal pocket and the outside locking pocket.
• This is a small bag for such things as your glasses, papers, phone, keys and the like, and will also hold a small iPad. The strap is adjustable and the exterior is water resistant so rain or shine, your things will be protected. ~

AND HERE’S ONE THAT ISN’T QUITE A TRAVEL HANDBAG…

• For those of you who prefer daypacks to womens handbags for travel (youll find a selection of great travel daypacks here), this is a sleek, frills-free anti theft backpack that will fit everything you need for a day trip and comes in red, teal and black. It features a couple of pockets and a padded electronic sleeve: just be aware that laptops larger than 13” probably won’t fit inside them.
• It’s not particularly stylish, but you’d be able to wear it around both urban and rural areas without raising eyebrows.
• And it has the usual Pacsafe safety features, including the stainless steel wire mesh in the fabric and the wire-reinforced straps, turn and lock security hooks on zippers, and an RFID blocking pocket and main compartment. If youre keen on a theft-proof backpack, this is probably as close as youre going to get.

BEST TRAVEL HANDBAGS FOR WOMEN: THE FEATURES THAT REALLY MATTER

Not all handbags for traveling abroad are made equal and there are a number of features that make good travel purses as opposed to just blah ones. When looking for the best women’s travel handbags, here’s what you should consider:

• Pockets . Most women have suffered with a “too big” purse that seemed to devour all the contents. Good purses for travel include pockets – zippered, mesh, credit card slots – that allow you to organize and actually find everything that fits.  Click here for a really super travel handbag with compartments!
• Space for electronics . We need space for our gadgets, including cameras, cell phones, tablets and laptops/notebooks. The perfect handbag for travel has plenty of room for all these. I need to be able to carry my 13″ Macbook Air to most places.  Click here for the perfect big travel handbag  (the larger sizes).
• Style . A bag with some semblance of “everyday” style will help you look more local and not scream “tourist” too loudly. Designer travel bags may be a bit pricey but you’ll find plenty of cheap travel bags with lots of styles – different colors, shapes, materials, sizes.
• Durability . Frequent travel requires a bag that will withstand all sorts of wear and tear. It doesn’t have to be leather, but it does need to be made with strong material and sturdy fasteners. Beware of shoddily made purses that can fall apart after a single trip. The best handbag for travel should last and last and last – first, because they’re well made but second, because the style is perennial and never becomes old.
• Safety features . Being a solo female traveler comes with some risks, so having an anti-theft bag with safety features like anti-slash mesh or locking zippers can bring some peace of mind. The one thing travel handbags for women must deliver is safety for your belongings. There’s little point in carrying it around otherwise…  See the best anti theft travel hand bags for ladies .
• Carrying options . The best purses for travel are those which you can carry multiple ways, including over-the-shoulder, across-the-body and even backpack-style (I like cross-body purses best).
• Comfort : Since you’ll probably be toting it around with you most of the day, a good purse for traveling needs to be comfortable – think wide strap that doesn’t slip off, bag that doesn’t slap across your middle…
• Water-resistance : This isn’t essential but the best handbags for travel should be weather-friendly, both for esthetics and because you want to keep your contents dry.  See more waterproof travelling hand bags for ladies . 

HOW ESSENTIAL ARE GOOD TRAVEL HANDBAGS FOR TRAVELLING ABROAD? 

Maybe not that essential. It depends.

If you’re a person who doesn’t carry much around, you may not need one. You can always stash your phone, room card and credit card in a money belt or  travel pouch , right? Or if you hate the idea of a traveling handbag, consider a travel daypack instead.

But with so many women’s travel handbags on the market, how do you know which one to get?

If you  are  a handbag person, here are a few simple questions you should ask yourself before you buy:

• How do you  carry your handbag?  Across your chest and back, on your shoulder, or slung over your arm (not the best idea for keeping your hands free in an unfamiliar environment, by the way)…
• How lo ng are you going for?  A small purse for traveling (or no purse at all!) might do for a short visit but if you’re off for a few weeks you’ll need a bigger handbag to travel with.
• What kind of tra vel is involved?  If you’re staying in a central hotel or apartment, you can always leave things in your room and go back for something if you need to ( nothing too valuable though ).
• How  often will you be using it?  Do you need it all day or is it for evening wear or work?
• What will you carry ?  If you need your iPad and your iPhone and makeup and clumps of keys, you’ll need a different bag than if you’re slipping your phone, a pen and a Moleskine notebook into something that zips up: the best purse for travel abroad needs to fit what you intend to carry.
• How often do you need access to your stuff?  I use my iPhone every minute or two so I’m lost without an outside pocket to slip it into.

Answering these questions will help you choose.

And if you travel often, don’t skimp on the expense. You’re better off investing in the best purse for travel now rather than buying cheap travel handbags that will unravel in the middle of nowhere – and that you’ll have to replace.

See my recommendation for the best handbag for travelling overseas!

7 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR TRAVEL HANDBAG AND ITS CONTENTS SAFE

Other than deciding on the best handbag for travlling, the most important issue you’ll have to deal with is probably security.

1. Don’t wear flashy brand name labels  on your travel hand bag: they make it that much more attractive to steal.

2. Don’t be arrogant  as in “it won’t happen to me because I’m too smart/careful/savvy” — it  can  happen to you. I’m a seasoned traveler and I’ve had my belongings lifted. It’s almost inevitable after a lifetime of travel. What I do know is without being careful, it would have happened far more often.

3. Make sure your bag is hard to get into.  Even the best travel purses for women can be stolen. That’s why I like the slash-proof straps with all sorts of wire mesh. I can still lose it and it can disappear — but it won’t be slashed while I’m wearing it and my belongings lifted from under my nose.

4. Pay attention.  The best time for someone to steal your bag is when you’re busy taking that ultimate photograph or admiring the view. You’re not paying attention and you won’t even notice: there goes your perfect handbag for traveling. I sadly speak from experience.

5. Wear your bag in a way that dissuades theft.  Most often thieves look for an easy mark. A handbag across your chest (as opposed to hanging loosely over a shoulder) will look more challenging and less appetizing.  Keep your bag on the inside rather than on the street side. Yes, there have been instances of women being dragged along by a thief on a scooter BUT seeing a well-protected bag should be pretty dissuasive. If this worries you, use a pashmina or a scarf over your shoulder. It won’t hide your bag completely but it makes it more complicated for thieves – and they like to keep things simple.

6. Never leave your bag unattended.  Obvious, right? And if you don’t want to hang onto to it tightly while trying to eat, tie it to the table. Or get one of those metal cable locks to tie your bag to your table or chair: someone else might want that perfect travel handbag you just bought. I simply keep mine on – the strap is long enough to do that comfortably.

7. Don’t carry all your valuables in your purse . Split your things up by using a  money belt  or pouch and spread your cash around various clothes pockets.

Whatever I do, I will NOT be hanging my bag on the back of a chair!

WHICH OF THESE TRAVEL PURSES WILL BECOME YOUR FAVORITE TRAVEL COMPANION?

There are some incredible travel handbags to choose from. From stylish travel handbags and durable purses to functional bags with all the pockets you could ever need — you’re bound to find your next favorite travel accessory. 

Remember, don’t keep all of your valuables in one place, and never leave your handbag unattended!

— Originally published on 26 January 2016

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The 12 Best Travel Purses of 2024

P lanning summer travels includes determining what purse works best for your itinerary. If you're going abroad, you may want anti-theft features and compartments with space for glasses, passports, sunscreen and more – but you can also find plenty of extras like built-in wallets, hidden pockets and key ring attachments. There's a wide range of different styles on the market to suit your travel purse needs.

U.S. News editors tapped travel experts for their top picks and researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry review sites and more, to come up with this selection of the best travel purses.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - The Best Travel Purses

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. We update this article regularly to ensure the bags we're recommending are in stock and continue to have great overall reviews from consumers, while also considering new product launches. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

Best Overall: TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody

What sets it apart: This sleek design blends fashion with function. The Tyler Crossbody by TUMI has multiple organizational features, including a spacious main compartment for a passport, camera and other personal essentials; a U-shaped front pocket with a leather card pocket and key leash; two front zippered pockets; and a back slip pocket. The upscale nylon construction is durable yet polished and it can be spot cleaned for when those spills happen. What's more, the detachable leather charm can be monogrammed.

Expert review: "This is one of my go-to handbags for any trip – especially European vacations," says Rachael Hood , a senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The pockets and separate compartment keep everything organized and quick to find. The nylon construction has a silky and upscale feel, and the overall design is versatile for travel or daily use."

Price: $295 or less

Multi Button Enhancement : Travel - The Best Travel Purses - TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody

Best Crossbody: Lug Ranger 2 Crossbody Bag

Full of organizational details, the Lug Ranger 2 has multiple compartments to keep essentials neatly stowed. The front zippered compartment has a built-in wallet with RFID protection and a key leash. Just above that, you'll find a magnetic-closure slip pocket on the front of the bag for your cellphone, to make answering a call or taking a selfie easy. The main internal compartment can fit your camera, snacks and personal essentials. There are two slip pockets for sunglasses or cords, plus a clear zippered pocket for sunscreen, lotion or other small liquids. The back zippered compartment has two pen slots and is ideal for wipes, a passport or other travel-related items.

Expert review: "I use this bag at least weekly, and I really like this design for weekend road trips," says Hood. "I have multiple colors and prints that I like to switch out for seasonality, and the wipeable and water-repellent material is forgiving, whether it's raining, snowing or I spill my latte."

Price: $80 or less

Multi Button Enhancement : Travel - The Best Travel Purses - Lug Ranger 2 Crossbody Bag

Best for Europe: Minooy Eirene Crossbody Bag

What sets it apart: When traveling abroad, versatility is key, and this chic design by Minooy offers just that. Constructed of high-quality full-grain leather in a choice of four classic colors, this multicompartment travel purse is packed with details. The separate main zippered pocket keeps everything from lipstick to a phone cord in its place. The crossbody bag offers understated luxury, the RFID-blocking internal compartment has six card slots, and the outside zippered pocket can hold up to an iPhone 14 Pro Max or Galaxy S22 Ultra.

Expert review: Marisa Méndez , senior travel editor at U.S. News, adores this purse. "I love how soft the leather is on this bag as well as all of the pockets and loops for organization," says Méndez. "My favorite feature is that the entire bag is RFID-blocking so I don't need to worry about carrying a wallet; I can just use the card slots in the bag."

Price: $159 or less

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Best Anti-Theft: Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

What sets it apart: Protecting your valuables is always important, but when you're traveling it's even more vital. This bag features Travelon's patented five-point anti-theft system, which includes slash-resistant handles and mesh panels within the walls of the bag. The bag also offers RFID protection, a locked main compartment, and the ability to fasten the bag to a chair or post to deter a thief in a restaurant, train station or airport.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight construction of the bag, combined with the theft-proof security features and multiple pockets, makes this a traveler favorite. Owners of this bag say it holds all of your travel essentials from passports to sunglasses, and that it holds up well after years of use.

Price: $70 or less

Multi Button Enhancement : Travel - The Best Travel Purses - Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

Best Shoulder Bag: Vera Bradley Glenna Satchel

What sets it apart: Machine-washable and available in an array of eye-catching prints to suit your style, the Glenna Satchel is a large shoulder bag ideal for city adventures, day trips, shore excursions and daily activities. The spacious main compartment has a zip pocket and three slips, along with room for a book, tablet, planner, phone and wallet. There are two exterior slip pockets to stow things like maps or handouts, and a hidden zip pocket on the outside as well to secure smaller items. For added options, the drawstring adjusts the size of the bag depending on your needs.

Travelers appreciate: Fans of this bag praise the functionality and the pretty print options of the satchel. Though, some do note that the straps could be longer.

Price: $110 or less

Multi Button Enhancement : Travel - The Best Travel Purses - Vera Bradley Glenna Satchel

Best Messenger Bag: Tory Burch Nylon Small Messenger

What sets it apart: Constructed with a 100% recycled nylon shell and trimmed in leather, this design gives major '90s vibes in all the best ways. The unstructured messenger bag is perfect for travel with an interior compartment for your wallet, phone, keys and more, plus an interior slit pocket and zippered pocket to keep valuables secured. The front exterior pocket of the bag zips, and the back slit pocket is ideal for your phone or items you want to reach quickly. Finished with a magnetic closure flap and a removable crossbody strap, this bag adds an element of style to your travel wardrobe.

Travelers appreciate: Lightweight, practical and functional are a few of the words bag owners use to describe this messenger bag. They say it works well for sightseeing, and that the bag can hold a lot without looking clunky or overstuffed.

Price: $248 or less

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Best Backpack Purse: CALPAK Luka Mini Backpack

What sets it apart : Designed with travel in mind, this mini backpack has a luggage trolley sleeve and matches the duffels and other items in the CALPAK Luka collection. You can put your tablet, wallet and other must-haves in the interior compartment; your cell phone and a travel umbrella in the exterior side pockets; your passport in the hidden back zippered pocket; and other items in the front zippered compartment. The bag's lining is water-resistant, the puffy exterior is soft and comfortable to carry, and the straps are adjustable to suit your needs.

Expert review: "The compact and functional design makes is possible to pack my iPad, reading material, a wallet and even a camera," says Hood. "Plus, I can coordinate my purse with other CALPAK Luka luggage items. The only downside is the two exterior pockets are a bit small, as they can't hold a water bottle."

Price: $72 or less

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Best Small Travel Purse: Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small

What sets it apart: For a compact design with adaptability, this Lo & Sons design checks all the boxes. This convertible style has a two-part strap to transform into a belt bag, crossbody, clutch, shoulder bag or wristlet with ease. The neatly organized interior compartment has space for your phone and essentials with a three-slot zippered pocket, an interior slip pocket, and an exterior card slot ideal for a room key or transit card. Offered in a choice of natural-grain nappa leather, scratch-resistant textured Saffiano leather or plant-based cactus leather, this style can easily go from day to night or boardroom to ballgame.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag really like the option to adjust the strap to suit the day's events. They compliment the quality construction and overall look, with many saying it's great for travel because it can easily fit into a duffel or backpack.

Price: $178 or less

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Best Packable: LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag

What sets it apart: Made of recycled ripstop nylon, this lightweight and durable handbag can easily be packed into your suitcase and pulled out for use when you arrive at your destination. It lays flat when not full of your belongings. This roomy travel purse has plenty of space in its two main compartments for a wallet, water bottle, cell phone, on-the-go necessities and a few fun things you find along the way. The front has two exterior zippered pockets, and there's a back zippered pocket as well. With the adjustable crossbody strap, the bag can also be worn as a shoulder bag. What's more, LeSportsac continuously adds to the color and pattern choices in this classic bag with everything from beloved animated characters to florals or plaid.

Travelers appreciate: Handbag owners rave about the pockets, durability and color options for this style. Many note while it is great for travel, it's also ideal for everyday use with plenty of space for everything.

Price: $105 or less

Multi Button Enhancement : Travel - The Best Travel Purses - LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag

Best Belt Bag: Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

What sets it apart: Offered in a choice of neoprene or air mesh, this versatile option is U.S. News' top fanny pack pick . This hands-free belt bag has an adjustable belt, a small front zip pocket (a great spot to stash cash for tipping) and a back panel exterior credit card. The roomy main compartment comes equipped with an elastic loop, a key clip and a card pocket to keep things easy to find.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this belt bag like the quality construction, color options and the overall versatility of the design. They also compliment the fabrication and say it holds the essentials without being bulky.

Price: $95 or less

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Best Sling Bag: CLUCI Small Sling Bag for Women

What sets it apart: Available in a wide variety of colors, this hands-free crossbody bag is perfect for those on the go. The three zippered pockets are roomy enough for travel essentials like keys, sunglasses, lipstick, wallet and sunscreen. Place your ID and credit cards in the five interior card slots, so you can leave your wallet at home. The back pocket of this sling bag is ideal for keeping important items close to your body to prevent theft, and the adjustable strap makes it comfortable to carry.

Expert review: "My favorite travel purse is the vegan leather crossbody bag by CLUCI," says Sharael Kolberg , a U.S. News travel contributor. "Not only is it environmentally and animal-friendly, it's also stylish and easily fits my wallet, passport, reusable water bottle and snacks. Plus, the front pocket allows easy access to my smartphone."

Price: $25.99 or less

Button Enhancement : Travel - CLUCI Small Sling Bag for Women

Best Convertible: augustnoa mini noa

Compact and versatile, this sustainable style can be carried as a crossbody, an over-the-shoulder bag or a backpack. On the outside, there's a zippered front pocket ideal for a room key, transit card or lip gloss. The interior has a deep slip pocket, a mesh zippered pocket and a spacious compartment with room for a phone, a small point-and-shoot camera, hand sanitizer, a wallet, your passport and other essentials.

Expert review: "I love the carrying options of this bag, and the gold hardware really elevates the look of the purse. I find myself using this bag on walks and adventures where I want to bring my phone and camera," says Hood.

Price: $89 or less

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FAQ Module : Travel - FAQs - The Best Travel Purses

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood has had a serious love for handbags her entire life. For everything from daily errands to global journeys, she has tried a variety of travel purse styles from an array of brands, discovering the good, the bad and the very best options. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research expertise to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Editor Picks: The Top Travel Accessories
• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• The Top Toiletry Bags
• The Top Clear Stadium Bags
• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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The 19 Best Weekender Bags for Every Type of Traveler, According to an Expert

Who knew a travel bag could be so chic?

We reached out Tom Marchant, CEO and co-founder of luxury travel brand Black Tomato , to talk a bit about these travel staples. He says investing in weekender bags that are lightweight and easy can make all the difference. He shares, "as the name might suggest, [weekender bags work for] long weekends or more ambitious trips where there are weight limitations for a flight."

Slightly larger than the average backpack yet not as cumbersome as a rolling carry-on, the weekender bag effortlessly fills the niche between the two. These bags, typically featuring an over-the-shoulder strap, are equipped with modern features such as key hooks, water bottle holders, shoe pockets and more, signaling that now is an excellent time to invest in one.

Weekender bags are perfect for all kinds of travel, from road trips to luxury international travel. For the most part, you can trust that your weekender bag will fit on the plane with you, whether under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. Weekender bags also tend to be lighter than other luggage, which is an important consideration when traveling. Read on to discover 19 travel expert-approved weekender bags.

The Best Weekender Bags for Travel

Our Expert Pick

Volume+ weekender.

Best to Use with Luggage

The weekender.

Best Designer Bag

Pierre leather weekend bag.

July is taking over the travel industry, so it's easy to see why it would be one of our expert's favorite bags on the market right now.

" July is an Australian brand that’s making great luggage and has a great price point," shares Marchant. "Their Volume+ Weekender is made from durable water-resistant nylon fabric, and has an expandable base that unzips for additional room, and the front pocket is handy for keeping important items within reach."

About this weekender:

Away luggage sets are among our favorites for long-haul travel, but their weekender bag is a sleeper hit that shouldn't be overlooked for shorter trips.

Designed to hold a few days' worth of belongings in a stylish, compact design, this bag prioritizes quality and comfort. Its cushioned shoulder strap, spacious interior for easy garment storage, and computer pocket elevate it from a standard weekender to something more sophisticated.

What reviewers say: "This bag just went to Lebanon, England, and Switzerland. Great quality and the amount it holds was amazing. 17 days on the road and only took this bag and Away Bigger Carry On ."

The classic duffle shape of this ultra-luxurious weekender bag is truly quiet luxury at its finest. Available in different colors and finishes from leather to suede, you cannot go wrong with this well-crafted bag.

Landon Carryall

Sustainability is central to discussions on everything from outdoor rugs to luggage, and that includes the approach taken by Dagne Dover. The company has crafted a thoughtful, eco-friendly design; the bag’s inner lining, shoe bag, and dust bag are all made from REPREVE® Recycled Polyester, which is derived from recycled plastic bottles.

Compact Weekender

A weekender bag gets a lot of use, so you might as well go with something that looks great on the go. The handsome craftsmanship and lifetime warranty of this Carl Friedrik bag make it a worthy investment.

What reviewers say: " Among the best bags I ever owned (including much much more expensive ones). Outstanding quality, amazing details all around; the super soft leather has a lovely feel to it—to a point where you struggle using the bag outdoors to prevent it ever from getting any scratches. Which it doesn't really [need], I found it to be quite resilient. "

Go-Bag Mini Travel Duffel Bag

Available in a variety of sizes and bold colors, Baboon Over the Moon has got the weekender bag game down to a science.

"I'm not exaggerating when I say my Go-Bag goes everywhere with me," Associate Editor Sarah DiMarco shares. "It's tough enough to serve as a carry-on for flights and compact enough for spur-of-the-moment beach trips. Also, I love that it's weatherproof and so easy to clean after a wild adventure."

Sesia Happy Day Tote

The name Loro Piana is synonymous with high-quality luxury—and the incredible craftsmanship of this bag speaks volumes. Its chic pebbled leather and unique detailing set it apart from the crowd.

Le Pliage Green Travel Bag

When the weight of your luggage is a deciding factor in whether it makes it onto the plane, a lightweight, expandable option becomes a valuable investment. Longchamp, with its compact Le Pliage collection, has a travel bag that can expand as your travel horizons broaden.

The Weekender in Canvas

Looking for a classy bag with handwoven details? Your search ends with Hunting Season. The incredibly chic, New York-based brand offers some truly stunning designs that will surely captivate you. The bespoke charm of this weekender bag will have everyone asking you where it's from.

Weekend Suede Tote

Handcrafted in Italy, Métier has mastered the art of suede. The vibrant colors, woven details, and other features on the brand's expertly crafted piece will make any design lover's heart skip a beat. Beyond that, the bag is surprisingly roomy. Everything you need for a weekend away can be stylishly tucked into this lovely piece.

Olive Wax Holdall

Barbour's waxed cotton was made to withstand harsh British weather, so it's certainly capable of handling a bit of travel. Owning this piece feels somewhat like stepping back in time, as it lacks high-tech features such as a key holder or laptop sleeve. However, the timeless simplicity and quality craftsmanship ensure it will remain a favorite for years.

Aerin Oversize Weekender

Aerin may be known for its incredible tableware, fragrances, and home goods, but the lifestyle brand created a bag that has us wondering how we ever lived (or traveled) without it. The luxurious material and unique design make Aerin's weekender bag stand out among the more traditional options on this list. Unlike other selections, this bag features an open top, similar to a tote, allowing you to hold more without worrying about a zipper breaking.

Paravel Weekender

Paravel, known for creating upscale luggage with a focus on sustainability, offers an excellent weekender. The recycled vegan leather adds a sophisticated touch to the bag and lets you easily attach it to your rolling luggage. Pretty and practical!

What reviewers say: "This is the BEST weekender I have ever owned. It will hold clothes for more than a mere weekend (including an extra pair of shoes!) and still fit beneath the seat on an airline...This is a beautiful bag and worth every penny."

Luka Large Duffel

Looking for a bag that works just as well as a pillow as it does a weekender? The plush, dreamy material of Calpak's Luka Duffle will fit the bill.

What reviewers say: " It's great for weekend travel, it fits the large compression packing cube and large cosmetic case . It's amazing and so cute. I can pack a lot and still have room!"

Cloud Carry-On

One of the biggest troubles with travel is how easy it is to accumulate souvenirs and other mementos during your trip, and then we have nowhere to put them. Luckily for us, cult-favorite bag brand Baggu has a solution.

"More often than not, I end up with more belongings at the end of a trip than at the start," DiMarco shares. "That's why I adore the Baggu Cloud Carry-On—it effortlessly folds up into my carry-on and is ready when I need extra space. Plus, it slips comfortably under the airplane seat and counts as a personal item."

The Canvas Go-Tote

Sometimes, even after our travels end, we still want to carry around a weekender bag for the gym, work, or other activities. The stylish neutral look of Cincha's Go-Tote is designed for just that.

With places to hold your water bottle and laptop, you can easily incorporate this piece into your everyday life. Also, the gaps in the side of the outer leather detailing allow you to easily add one of the brand's nifty Travel Belts , making it easy to connect to your rolling luggage.

Weekender Bag

Sleepovers and long weekends away with friends are popular among younger folks (or those young at heart!), and Stoney Clover Lane's sweet and colorful designs are the perfect accessory for these adventures. Bonus: Patches and monograms can be added to your bag for a customized look.

Clare V. Weekender

L.A.-based brand Clare V. is known for its chic and classic designs. The bags get a touch of L.A. cool-girl fun through a variety of playful strap options.

City Adventurer Tote Bag

Lululemon may be known for its viral belt bag , but for adventures that need more than just the bare essentials, this tote bag from the the athletic apparel brand has got you covered. The sporty look of the bag with the stylish outer pocket is sure to set it apart from the crowd.

About this weekender

What types of trips are best suited to a weekender bag.

Longer weekends, roadtrip adventures, and trips where luggage weight is paramount are a few trips that work well for the weekender. More adventurous travel like safaris are also deserve to use a weekender bag.

"Safaris are a good example as almost all lodges launder clothes, but if hopping between countries or lodges, it makes sense to pack smart," Marchant says. "Weekenders can usually do the trick."

Mary Alice Russell (she/her) is the assistant market editor for VERANDA. She composes gift guides and stories about style, design, decor, shopping, markets, and trends. Currently attempting to master the art of needlepoint, Mary Alice loves creating, baking and discovering hidden treasures like sea glass or the perfect chai latte.

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The 13 Best Travel Pouches of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Stay organized on the go with these helpful travel pouches.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Pouches We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brierley Horton

It can be difficult to stay organized while traveling, but one of the best travel hacks for keeping belongings safe and tidy is with a handy travel pouch. From singular bags to sets that include two or three different sizes, there are tons of options out there to fit your needs whether commuting by train, car, or plane. 

To test various travel pouches, we tried 26 options from luggage brands we know and trust like Steamline, Cotopaxi, and Béis. We tested dopp kits, tech organizers, single pouches, sets of multiple bags, and we also tried one pouch with insulation built into it — something we’ve never seen before in luggage accessories. Keep reading to see which travel pouches are must-haves for travel and a few that fell short of our expectations.

Best Overall

Steamline luggage the palm cosmetics set.

Steamline Luggage

This set of three pouches is made from recycled water bottles and comes in vibrant prints. 

The largest pouch could be a little bit bigger. 

From palm trees to polka dots , the unique patterns are just one reason we love this set of three travel pouches from Steamline Luggage. The small, medium, and large pouches are made with fabric derived from recycled water bottles — an eco-friendly element we appreciate seeing in travel accessories . Between the three pouches, you can fit a variety of travel essentials like phone chargers, makeup, an eReader, and more. 

We liked having the ability to use the various-sized pouches for different occasions like commuting to the office when we wanted to travel light with only one or two pouches versus traveling on an airplane with all three bags for organization. When you’re not using the pouches, you can store them inside one another and lay them flat so the set won’t take up room at home. 

The Details: Set of three | Recycled water bottles

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best for Beach or Pool

Mark & graham poolside clear pouch.

Mark & Graham

The contents of the bags stayed perfectly dry when we splashed them with water.

It would be nice to have one more smaller bag included in the set.

If you’re planning to spend some time near the water on your next trip, it would be wise to invest in a water-resistant set of pouches like these ones from Mark & Graham. The plastic pouches can keep water off your valuables — which is especially useful for technology like phones or chargers — when you’re at the beach, the pool, or if you keep a water bottle in your bag. The set of two pouches comes with a medium and a large pouch, and we were able to fit a 13-inch laptop in the larger pouch for size reference. The medium pouch is best for eReaders, phone chargers, wallets, earbuds, or any other smaller item. While we wish the set came with an even smaller pouch for bringing the bare essentials to the beach or pool, the two different sizes are still helpful for a variety of travel items. Plus, you can personalize these pouches with initials as a special touch if the set is a gift to treat yourself or loved ones.

The Details: Set of two | BPA-free plastic | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Heer Chaudri

Best Leather

Leatherology small accessories pouch.

Leatherology

The leather pouch has a flat bottom so it can sit on a table without falling over.

The size we tested is pretty compact, but there are larger sizes available, too.

Small but mighty, this buttery leather pouch from Leatherology is the perfect carry-all for everyday essentials. When we commuted to the office, we found the bag was the ideal size for keeping items like credit cards, a driver’s license, and some makeup essentials together in one place. It was easy to fish the small pouch out of a larger bag and the smooth zipper helped with getting to the essentials quickly and seamlessly. We appreciated that the bag has a flat bottom so it can stand upright on a table — a convenient feature for hotel bathroom or an airplane tray table to make the most out of small spaces. The water-resistant lining makes cleaning the interior a hassle-free experience, and the soft leather material didn’t scuff or scratch during testing even when sitting in a purse next to keys. If the small size is too compact for your needs, it also comes in convenient medium and large sizes, too. 

The Details: One pouch | 7.5 x 6.65 inches | Full grain leather | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Calpak Compakt Zippered Pouch Set

The high-quality materials and functionality of the set rival our top-performing pouches that had a higher price point. 

The largest pouch isn’t quite big enough for a laptop. 

Preparing for a trip can get pricey with the need for luggage and accessories, so we love that this set of three travel pouches from Calpak comes at an affordable price without sacrificing quality. Made with durable ripstop nylon and polyester fabric, the small, medium, and large zippered pouches are designed to protect and organize travel essentials. The water-resistant material is thin enough to lay the bags completely flat when empty, but they don’t feel the slightest bit flimsy. Depending on the type of trip, we loved that the various sizes of pouches are useful for a range of items from tech and toiletries to makeup and undergarments. The bold colors and patterned pouches make it easy to spot in a larger bag or you can opt for a muted shade like the black or mauve. For three high-quality pouches under $30, you might even want to put two sets in your cart.

The Details: Set of three | Ripstop fabric | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Sarah Quagliariello

Best Dopp Kit

Beis the dopp kit.

The bag has two separate compartments for organizing toiletries and other accessories.

It’s designed to be used as a toiletry bag.

This Béis dopp kit is a spacious toiletry bag for storing makeup, skincare, and other travel beauty essentials. Similar to the brand’s iconic weekender bag , the two separate compartments are helpful for organizing items from three-ounce bottles to makeup palettes. The interior also boasts one slip pocket and one zippered pocket for extra protection when it comes to packing and organizing fragile toiletries. Made with a sturdy wire frame, the kit feels protective enough to pack in a checked bag with confidence that the toiletries will be kept safe. You can wipe the fabric exterior and water-resistant interior lining clean for easy upkeep. After using this bag several times, we ditched our toiletry bag of 10-plus years in favor of this one, so we think it’s worth every penny.  

The Details: One pouch | 11 x 6.5 inches | Cotton, canvas, poly | Water-resistant lining

Travel + Leisure / Dera Burreson

Best Tech Organizer

Peak design tech pouch.

There are tons of pockets and compartments to store tech accessories.

It can’t fit large technology. 

For travelers that like to stay extra organized on the go, this Peak Design Tech Pouch has a spot for every accessory you could possibly need on a trip. There are more than ten slip pockets, zippered pockets, and compartments to keep items of various sizes — from phone chargers to outlet adapters — safely tucked away en route to your destination. In addition to tech accessories, we placed toiletries, including glass bottles, into the pouch and found that the compartments protect fragile skincare items just as much as computer and phone gadgets. While the pockets secure items, the 200D recycled nylon canvas exterior is fully weatherproof and ensures the contents are protected from Mother Nature and rough baggage handlers alike. One thing to note is that you likely wouldn’t be able to fit any tech like a laptop or tablet in this case, but you might be able to squeeze an eReader in depending on the size. 

The Details: One pouch | 9.5 x 6 inches | Nylon, polyester 

Travel + Leisure / Awa Dia

Best Crossbody

Fjallraven high coast pocket bag.

The pouch comes with a detachable crossbody strap to use it as a purse.

It can’t fit much more than a phone, hand sanitizer, and small wallet.

Versatility is key when it comes to traveling so we love that this Fjallraven pouch doubles as a crossbody purse. It comes with a removable strap that seamlessly clips onto the pouch to bring your essentials with you wherever you go. The pouch itself is relatively small, so it’s best for storing a phone, credit cards, passport, and lip balm in the main compartment or front zippered pocket. Made with durable recycled polyamide, the materials are extremely lightweight and can be wiped clean. Plus, there are 12 color options, including yellow, orange, blue, and green shades. 

The Details: One pouch | 11 x 6.7 inches | Recycled polyamide | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Riddley Schirm

Best for Suitcase Organization

Baggu 3d zip set.

The nylon bags work perfectly as packing cubes . 

The bags are thin and unstructured, so we wouldn’t pack toiletries in the pouches.

During testing, we found that this set of three pouches from Baggu make it easy to organize accessories in a bag or clothing in a suitcase. The small and medium pouches are perfect for undergarments or T-shirts, while the largest bag can fit shoes, jeans, or a lightweight jacket. We also found that the two smaller pouches can hold technology and accessories if you’re using a backpack or a tote bag. The recycled nylon material is sturdy and well-constructed, but it’s unstructured like the brand’s reusable shopping bags, so fragile items like skincare or jewelry might not be as well protected. When you’re not using the pouches, you can lay them completely flat or fold them for hassle-free storage.

The Details: Set of three | Recycled ripstop nylon  

Travel + Leisure / Brierley Horton

Best Ligtweight

Aloha collection mid pouch.

Aloha Collection

Our bottle of hair conditioner spilled in the bag, and no liquid escaped through the zipper or material. 

There aren’t any other pockets on the interior or exterior.

This do-it-all pouch from Aloha is made with the brand’s splash-proof fabric, designed to be ultra-lightweight, packable, and water-resistant. During testing, we used it as a toiletry bag for a weekend getaway and noticed a conditioner bottle spilled everywhere inside the bag. Luckily, the fabric and zippers contained the mess, and it didn’t leak into the rest of our luggage, so we think this pouch could double as an excellent swimsuit bag to transport a wet suit if needed. The durable fabric is extremely lightweight and foldable without feeling flimsy or cheap, and we expect this pouch to last for plenty of trips down the road. The mid-size pouch comes in tons of fun patterns like monstera and palm tree prints, or you can opt for a solid black pouch. 

The Details: One pouch | 11.5 x 8.5 inches | Splash-proof fabric | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Best Compartments

Cotopaxi nido accessory bag.

There are various pockets and separators for organizing toiletries to technology.

  It would take up a lot of space in a smaller bag like a tote or backpack.

Designed to store small accessories that get lost in larger bags easily, this Cotopaxi dopp kit has plenty of compartments to keep you naturally organized. With three separate sections, we loved how easy it was to designate each pocket for toiletries like skincare and a toothbrush or tech accessories like phone chargers and earbuds. We packed toiletries in the bag for multiple trips and, while nothing leaked, we appreciated that the lining is waterproof and can be wiped clean for easier upkeep. The pockets are also expandable so you can adjust the capacity as needed for short or long trips alike. Just remember: the more you pack, the bigger the pouch will be, causing it to take up more space in a carry-on or backpack. 

The Details: One pouch | 9 x 6 x 5 inches | 840D recycled nylon

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Christopher

Best Insulated

Otm makeup bag.

There is a layer of insulation built-into the pouch for regulating the temperature of the contents.

The zipper doesn’t run the entire length of the pouch, so it can be difficult to get items in and out. 

If you’ve ever left lipstick in your purse on a hot day and found that it’s completely melted and lost its shape, then you need this insulated pouch to protect expensive makeup from the elements. It’s made with a layer of Pristinium insulation designed to regulate the temperature of the interior of the pouch to keep the contents at room temperature. I personally tested this cylinder pouch by placing my most expensive makeup in it and using a hair dryer to heat the exterior. Luckily, I found that the contents inside remained perfectly cool and didn’t heat up even though the exterior was hot to the touch. I also took the pouch with me in my checked bag for a ski trip, and it did an amazing job at protecting my toiletries. The only slight downside I ran into is that the zipper is a little short, which makes it harder to pack and take items out. 

The Details: One pouch | 6.5 x 3 inches | Vegan leather, Pristinium insulation

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Machine Washable

Kusshi on-the-go pouch set.

You can toss these pouches in the washing machine to extend the lifespan.

Due to their envelope shape, the pouches don’t stand upright.

It’s no secret that traveling can take a toll on bags so we recommend these durable and machine-washable pouches from Kusshi. The duo is made with thick and protective neoprene material that wards off water and stains while providing a layer of cushioning between the packed contents and the rest of your luggage. This is particularly helpful for traveling with fragile items like sunglasses, jewelry, or skincare bottles. We used the smaller pouch for travel essentials like hand sanitizer and a passport, and the larger pouch protected our toiletries like lotion, face wash, and other makeup products. If anything spills on the inside or outside of the pouch, all you have to do is toss them in the wash and they’ll come out looking brand new and ready for the next adventure.

The Details: Set of two | Neoprene

Travel + Leisure / Aleena Qazi

MZ Wallace Metro Pouch

The pouch is large enough to fit tablets, eReaders, and various other travel necessities.

It only comes in black.

For a one-and-done travel pouch, this spacious one from MZ Wallace can fit everything you need for commuting near and far. It’s plenty big enough to fit technology like phones, tablets, and eReaders (or paper notebooks for non-techies), and there are three zippered pockets on the inside for smaller items that can get lost easily like lip balm, credit cards, or keys. Made with a quilted recycled Oxford material and leather zipper pulls, this pouch is as stylish as it is functional and durable. The only thing that could make this pouch any better is if it had a waterproof lining on the inside for accidental spills and more color options, but otherwise, we think it’s the perfect carry-all bag.

The Details: One pouch | 13.19  x 9.65 inches | Recycled oxford

Travel + Leisure / Genevieve Roublick

Other Travel Pouches We Liked

There were a few travel pouches that we deemed worthy of an honorable mention but didn’t make our short list. 

Stoney Clover Lane Travel Pouch : This clear pouch makes it easy to see what’s inside of it, but we noticed that the fabric lining got dirty easily in testing.

Lululemon Command the Day Dopp Kit 5L : It’s relatively small for a dopp kit, but it has a good number of pockets for organizing toiletries and tech accessories.

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Zip Pouch : The cotton canvas material feels high-quality and well-made, but the capacity isn’t quite big enough to store the essentials in our opinion.

We hand-selected 26 travel pouches to test from trusted travel brands like Cotopaxi, Béis, and Calpak to see which ones held up during our trips. After testing single pouches and sets of two or three, over a dozen earned glowing reviews for quality and functionality. 

We took notes of any special features that make the pouches unique and packed each pouch with small essentials to observe the capacity, design, and organization. Our favorite dopp kits and tech organizers were filled to the brim with pockets, compartments, and separated sections for seamlessly organizing accessories and toiletries. The best sets we tested came with a variety of pouch sizes for packing various items like clothing, wet swimsuits, makeup, eReaders, passports, and more. We also made sure to test a variety of singular pouches for one-and-done shoppers, trying several options with special features like waterproof linings, insulation, and plenty of interior pockets.

The above list contains our favorite pouches, which we will continue to long-term test over the course of six months to make sure they hold up. We will update this article as we continue to test even more travel pouches that deserve a recommendation.

Tips for Buying a Travel Pouch

Think about what you plan to carry.

You can use travel pouches for all types of essentials from passports to clothing items, depending on the size and design of the bag. If you’re planning to use a travel pouch as a toiletry bag, consider purchasing a dopp kit, which is specifically designed for toiletries and skincare products. For those that travel with a lot of technology, opt for a tech organizer pouch since they generally have more pockets and compartments. A set that comes with multiple pouches is the most versatile option for those looking for multiple sizes. If you plan to use your travel pouches at the beach or pool, you should look for a waterproof option.

Pay attention to size

The size of a travel pouch can vary greatly from something you can carry in a small crossbody bag to something much larger that can hold a laptop. In general, dopp kits and tech organizers will be wider than a typical envelope-style pouch that has a more versatile design. Travel pouches also come in various shapes like envelope, square, and cylindrical, so you’ll also want to think about how much room the pouch might take up once it’s packed in a carry-on or backpack. Take a look at the dimensions of the pouches if you’re purchasing online so that you know exactly how big (or small) it will be.

Look at special features

Just like size and shape, all travel pouches feature different designs. Some pouches boast special features like waterproof linings, insulation, zippered pockets, ripstop fabric, and water-resistant exteriors. Depending on what your needs are, checking the product description is the best way to see if the pouch fits what you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel pouches are like mini packing cubes for your backpack, tote, or purse. You can organize your belongings with pouches to keep everything in designated spots, which can make traveling much more smooth. If you keep all of your travel documents, tech accessories, and toiletries in designated pouches, you’ll know exactly where to find everything without having to dig around your bag for loose items. 

The beauty of a travel pouch is that you can use it for a lot of different things. A travel pouch can act as a toiletry bag, a tech organizer, a wallet, or a packing cube. While it depends on the size and design, the sky's the limit with intended use, so it’s the perfect addition to your luggage collection to help stay organized on the go. If you find a pouch you love, you can even use it to store items at home.

It depends on the type of material the pouch is made out of, but it should come with cleaning instructions (or at least list them in the online product description). It’s common for fabric and plastic bags to be wipe- or spot-cleaned with soap and water, but you may see that certain pouches are machine washable.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes most of the team’s tested content. Anna is a chaotic traveler, who was often found holding up TSA security lines digging through her bag looking for her driver’s license before she invested in a travel pouch (or five). After participating in this test, Anna used her newfound knowledge of organized travel and thorough testing insights from other T+L editors to compile the best travel pouches.

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25 Designer Tote Bags Worth Your Investment

The results are in: You deserve to treat yourself.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Blake Geffen, CEO and co-founder of Vivrelle, confirms that a designer tote is a great option for anyone looking to start—or expand—a high-end collection. As for what to look for, durability is key. “Both designer and non-designer bags should always be judged by the quality–from fabrics and construction to the stitching and zippers, buckles, etc.,” she says. “Our tote bags are constantly in motion, so it’s important that the one you’re using can endure your day-to-day comings and goings.”

The Modern Classic

Loewe puzzle fold tote.

The Bottega Babe

Bottega veneta large intrecciato tote bag.

The Sustainable Option

Stella mccartney frayme whipstitch tote bag.

That said, what you choose will depend on your lifestyle. “Compartments and zipper pockets are also qualities I’m always looking for, though may be less important to others. Depending on the setting, shoppers may also want to consider fabrics and strap styles...While the trend cycle shifts quickly, nothing is more fashionable than owning your own unique sense of style.”

At ELLE, we’re all about honing your personal style. So, taking Geffen’s insights into consideration—along with the must-know summer 2024 bag trends , size, and additional features—we curated a list of the 25 best designer tote bags to carry through summer and beyond, just for you. See them all below.

A luxury bag is an investment for your forever wardrobe in and of itself, but one from Loewe—like this geometric Puzzle Fold Tote—has a modern look that feels effortlessly timeless. In other words, you’ll truly never tire of it.

Colors: 6 options

Materials: Calfskin

Dimensions: Height: 12.4 inches; width: 10 inches; depth: 5.7 inches

ELLE readers love the Bottega Veneta Andiamo . But just in case you’re looking for something a little different than the celebrity-loved style, I present to you the Large Intrecciato Tote bag. It’s spacious, features the label’s signature woven leather, and comes in the must-have color of the moment. What more could you ask for?

Material: Calfskin

Colors: Tapioca, Bordeaux

Dimensions: Height: 20.1 inches; width: 12.8 inches; depth: 7.3 inches

If you don’t want to go the leather route, Stella McCartney has the bag for you. This classic bag (which features a cool whipstitch detail along the side) is made from an apple waste leather alternative. How cool is that?!

Material: UPPEAL™️ vegan alternative to animal leather, sourced from apple waste

Colors: Midnight Black, Tan Brown

Dimensions: Height: 12.6 inches; width: 11.8 inches; depth: 6.5 inches

Tory Burch Mesh Tote

Let’s be honest: This might be the best tote you can have for summer. With the mesh material, it’s as easy and breezy as you can get.

Materials: Nylon; pebbled leather trim

Colors: Cuoio, Verde, Warm Sand, Prismatic T Monogram

Dimensions: Height: 7.5 inches; width: 9.8 inches; depth: 3.9 inches

Cult Gaia Sadie Tote Bag

No bag feels quite as quintessential for the warmest days of the year like a straw or raffia bag . Leave it to Cult Gaia to make one that’ll hold everything and more. I can already envision this on a summer picnic or beach day.

Material: Polyethylene

Colors: N/A

Dimensions: Height: 13.46 inches; width: 23.62; depth: 7.17 inches

The Row Park Tote Three Bag

Without a doubt, a tote from The Row had to be on this list. With a reputation for designing beautiful, high-quality bags (and the accolades to back them up), the Olsen twins never seem to miss when it comes to a good, investment-worth bag. Yes, other options are available from the brand, but there is no doubt this timeless style will be in your closet forever.

Materials: Calfskin leather

Colors: Cypress

Dimensions: Height: 20 inches; width: 11.5 inches; depth: 7 inches

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote

There’s just something so refreshing about a leather tote bag that comes in an unexpected color. Even if you’re the type of person with a neutral closet, this is the perfect way to brighten up a summer ensemble.

Materials: Italian tumbled calfskin

Colors: Seaglass, Desert, Black/Flamma, Dolly, Avorio

Dimensions: Height: 11.8 inches; width: 21.5 inches; depth: 9 inches

Polène Numéro Douze

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been seeing Polène everywhere—and perhaps there’s a good reason for that. This sturdy leather tote feels sculptural, thanks to its artful folds. Plus, it comes in eight different colors, so there’s one for everyone.

Materials: Calf leather

Colors: 8 options

Dimensions: Height: 12.5 inches; width: 14.9 inches; depth: 6.7 inches

Tod’s T Timeless Shopping Bag in Raffia and Leather Medium

Remember: It’s the season of raffia. Anyone looking for a luxury take on the woven look that feels fresh for 2024 will love this leather-trimmed option from Tod’s.

Material: Raffia; leather

Dimensions: Height: 11.4 inches; width: 18.5 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Dooney & Bourke Large Shopper Tote

If you’re in the market for a designer option that won’t break the bank, look no further. Dooney & Bourke has a classic option that makes for a great under-$200 option. And because you aren’t spending an arm and a leg, won’t have to be too precious carrying it around.

Material: Leather

Colors: 13 options

Dimensions: Height: 12 inches; width: 13.50 inches; depth: 4 inches

Marc Jacobs The Jacquard Medium Tote Bag

Sure, you could have a standard canvas tote bag, but why do that when you can have this woven jacquard-style from Marc Jacobs? After all, it really does send the message: This is the tote bag.

Material: Woven Jacquard

Colors: 14 options

Dimensions: Height: 10.63 inches; width: 13.19 inches; depth: 5.91 inches

Khaite Zoe Tote

When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a bag from Khaite—and this paneled one will take you from season to season. Just think about that cost per wear.

Material: Full-grain suede (calfskin)

Colors: Beige Suede, Midnight Suede, Rouge Noir Suede, Rouge Noir Multi Leather

Dimensions: Height: 15.3 inches; width: 12.6 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Ferragamo Tote Back With Cut-Out Detailing

The unexpected silhouette of this forest-green tote will have everyone staring enviously. It just has a bit of a calming effect, doesn’t it?

Material: Smooth and suede calfskin

Colors: Forest Green, Brown/Black

Dimensions: Height: 12.9 inches; width: 16.1 inches; depth: 6.1 inches

Rebecca Minkoff Megan Tote

Another more accessible option comes from Rebecca Minkoff by way of Amazon. I love the subtle edge that the brass hardware gives this otherwise low-key bag.

Colors: Stone

Dimensions: Height: 11.5 inches; width: 14 inches; depth: 5.75 inches

Saint Laurent Shopping Leather Tote

Saint Laurent’s Shopping Leather Tote is one of those bags that will always be a top-notch option. It’s unassuming, but well-made—and it will only get better the more you carry it.

Colors: Noir

Dimensions: Height: 11 inches; width: 14 inches; depth: 5 inches

Gucci Original GG Medium Tote Bag

What a way to say, “It’s all Gucci,” right? This medium-sized tote is perfect for the longer days, when you need to carry a bit more than just the essentials—be it a book, mini fan, or headphones.

Material: Canvas; leather trim

Colors: Beige and Blue

Dimensions: Height: 11 inches; width: 11.8 inches; depth: 10.2 inches

Prada Crochet Tote Bag

Is there be anything chicer than a crochet Prada tote on the beach? I think not.

Material: Raffia-effect yarn

Colors: Aqua, Petal Pink, White, Black

Dimensions: Height: 14.96 inches; width: 14.17 inches; depth: 1.18 inches

Chloé Marcie Hobo Bag

In case you haven’t heard, hobo bags are back in a major way. On that note, so is the boho-chic aesthetic—due, in part, to Chloé! Give your ensembles a casual-cool edge, with the help from this slouchy tote.

Colors: Dark Nut, Misty Ivory, Motty Grey, Dark Khaki, Black

Dimensions: Height: 11.4 inches; width: 14.2 inches; depth: 3.9 inches

Givenchy Voyou Large E/W Canvas Tote Bag

Canvas tote bags are the perfect way to get all the functionality of a leather option without having to worry about the upkeep. This style from Givenchy is the perfect way to keep your summer outfits looking casual, but still effortlessly polished.

Material: Canvas

Colors: Neutral

Dimensions: Height: 16.93 inches; width: 15.75 inches; depth: 5.12 inches

Alaïa Mina 25 Tote Bag

It doesn’t get more Alaïa than this cut-out tote bag. Without a doubt, this will be the hero of your summer ensembles, no matter where you’re traveling.

Colors: Blanc Optique

Dimensions: Height: 7.87 inches; width: 9.84 inches; depth: 4.72 inches

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13 Best Purses For Traveling In Europe

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Purses For Traveling…

A travel purse can either make or break your trip to Europe. Since you’re going to spend a lot of time being outside, you’re going to need a reliable purse. The best purse for traveling in Europe should be able to hold fashion without compromising its function. Choosing the wrong bag for traveling in Europe can really result in an awful travel experience. From sore shoulders from lugging it around the whole day, not having the right size to pack all your things, to even worst—having them stolen.

Whether you’re roaming around an ancient neighborhood or having a refreshing experience in small towns in Europe , you’ll need the best handbag for traveling in Europe. If you need a larger purse, consider getting the best bags for traveling in Europe instead.

How to Choose the Best Purse for Traveling in Europe

Before picking up the best cross body bag for travel in Europe, there are several things you should consider. While needs may vary according to each individual, your bag should at least have these features below. This is to ensure you’ll have a safe and sound trip across the pond.

Security Features

The best purse for traveling in Europe usually features some kind of security tech. One of the most popular securities found in travel purses is the Radio-Frequency Identification or RFID. Usually, you can find it featured in the bag’s pocket. It’s where you can safely store your credit card since RFID is meant to protect your identity from being stolen. Aside from RFID, an advanced and locked zipper is also common. You’ll easily notice anyone trying to unzip your bag.

Size and Compartments

While our preference of a bag size can vary, your purse should be able to hold your most valuable items. Items you should never leave at the hotel include passport/ID, hotel keys, and your wallet or credit cards. All things considered, a travel purse with a compact size should be your most favorable option. Apart from functionality, a compact size purse tends to be lightweight and easier to carry. Another plus point if it has enough compartments to make your items easier to organize.

It’s no brainer that your travel purse should be comfortable at all times. Especially if you’re going to spend most of your time on foot, traveling from one place to another. The best cross body bag for travel in Europe should hang comfortably over your shoulder. You don’t want to end up with strain after a long day of traveling.

What kind of purse is the best for travel?

Simply put, the best purse for traveling in Europe should be two things: safe and comfortable. With the many available choices, there’s something for everyone today from the market. But not all of them cover two of the most important features in a travel purse. If you find the right bag that’s safe and comfortable, you should look for no more. Especially if it comes with a friendly price tag!

Should you carry a backpack in Europe?

Backpacks are generally suitable for traveling in Europe. They’re easy to maneuver in most places; whether you’re taking the stair to your hostel or having a trip on a train. Backpacks are also roomy enough to fit 1 – 2 weeks of clothing. So yeah, if you’re planning to carry your backpack on your next trip to Europe, you’ll be good to go.

Are Kipling bags good for travel?

Kipling is popular for its backpacks and sling bags. And to this day, it’s many people’s favorite because of its very lightweight material, making it very suitable as a travel bag. Kipling backpacks, bags, and luggage also offer fun colors and designs. It’s more than enough to satisfy everyone’s tastes and preferences. Spending your money on a Kipling travel bag is worth every penny. And it should last as it’s made durable.

LoZoDo Women Satchel Handbag

With a great number of reviews online, LoZoDo Women Satchel Handbag passes the mark as the best handbag for traveling in Europe. The first thing that attracts buyers is the super friendly price tag. For a handbag with decent leather quality, it costs less than 30 USD.

Of course, it’s not the only reason why it’s the best purse for traveling in Europe. People are praising how stylish it looks and it does the job well. The storage is roomy enough to store your traveling essentials from passport to sunscreen and a bottle of water. Not to mention how you can style it both as a handbag and shoulder bag. People are excited about how this affordable bag is exceeding their expectations. It makes a great gift idea as well! Truly the best purse for traveling in Europe.

What We Love

Exceeding expectations and provides beyond its low price point.

• Very affordable
• Perfect for traveling
• Good quality
• Durability issues

Baggallini Everyday Traveler Bag

Speaking of the best purse for traveling in Europe, there are many reasons why Baggalini bags are the cult classic. And it’s mainly because they have everything people look for in a traveling purse: from reasonable price tag, sturdy and well-made design, to great choice of models and colors. Baggalini bags gain many fans online because of these particular reasons. And their latest Everyday Traveler Bag is no exception.

The new and improved Everyday Bag makes up for its big sisters’ flaws. And people are very satisfied with the improvement. You’ll notice how the current version is equipped with a built-in wallet inside. With RFID pockets and two main compartments, this bag holds all your traveling essentials in one. Most importantly, it gives you the peace of mind you deserve as you’re having leisure.

Anything you need in the best cross body bag for travel in Europe!

• Equipped with RFID
• Sturdy design
• Convenient built-in wallet
• Zippered compartments
• No cons found so far

Zocilor Women’s Multipurpose Purse Backpack

For the most part, people love Zocilor Women’s Multipurpose Purse Backpack for its look and function. The backpack holds spacious storage and is stylish enough without having to break the bank. As the name suggests, the backpack is convertible into a shoulder bag. The colorful single strap is a great finishing touch to its overall design. Providing you extended comfort as you carry it throughout the old European neighborhood.

Available in several charming colors, the bag is simply cute. The company claims that it’s made of high-quality PU leather, vegan leather, as well as a poly fabric lining. The material is also water-repellant and it provides enough room if you’re planning for a long day trip in Europe. For all these reasons, it’s hard not to mention it as the best purse for traveling in Europe.

Great design with charming style and very functional.

• Great size; not too big or too small
• Multiple ways to carry
• Made of sturdy material
• The straps are too bulky
• It looks expensive, may attract robbers

Kenneth Cole Reaction Runway Call Nylon

Planning a business trip to Europe soon? Kenneth Cole Reaction Runway Call Nylon is the perfect bag for you. What makes it the best handbag for traveling in Europe is particularly because there aren’t many bags like it. Most traveling bags are made casual and are not meant for business travel. And your daily work purse may also not be the best option if you’re taking it for travel. People are happy with Reaction Runway Call Nylon because it’s ideal for both situations.

The bag size fits under most airplane seats, making it very easy for storing. You can put most of your traveling and working essentials in the bag, including your laptop. Have we mentioned that it’s a rolling laptop bag? Yep, it’s equipped with a handle and you can drag it around for easier maneuvering.

You can find three compartments built in the bag, making it easier for you to organize each of your items. Some of the pockets are also equipped with an RFID security system, another plus for a traveling bag.

A highly functional handbag for when you need to do a business trip to Europe.

• Side pocket for water bottle
• Strong handle
• The compartments keep your things organized
• Not suitable for traveling heavy

Estalon Leather Crossbody Bag

If you’re more of a practical person, Estalon Leather Crossbody Bag is the right choice for your trip to Europe. It’s made of great quality leather and provides enough room to carry all your traveling essentials. The bag has the typical leather smell right out of the box but it’s only temporary and you’ll be able to comfortably use it.

As you can see from the picture, it has that cool rustic design. But most people suggest that the bag needs a little breaking in before finally looking as pictured. It comes with a great selection of colors and you can get your hands on it just for 40 USD. All things considered, it’s the best cross body bag for travel in Europe!

A stylish and functional leather crossbody bag.

• Great leather quality
• Perfect space for your traveling essentials
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Some users reported durability issues

MUNDI Jacqui Vegan Leather Crossbody Purse

If you’re a practical person and love to keep your traveling essentials as few as possible, this is the right purse for you. People love Mundi Jacqui Vegan Leather Crossbody Purse for many reasons. You’ll love how it’s convertible into a wallet as the shoulder and wrist strap are detachable. The straps are of great quality and thick, providing more comfort as you use the purse for long hours.

You can put 6 cards on the slots and remove them in a breeze. The cell phone pouch holds most types of phones, including phones with big screens. Your cards and passport will be protected as the bag also features an RFID security system. For what it’s worth, these reasons are why it’s the best cross body bag for travel in Europe.

Everything you need in a traveling crossbody bag is covered in this compact purse.

• Well-made and thick strap.
• Also equipped with a wrist strap

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel

Get yourself this charming crossbody bag from Michael Kors. The Jet Set Travel Messenger Bag is the best cross body bag for travel in Europe not only because of its known quality. It makes a practical traveling purse when you’re out spending the day sightseeing or hopping from one site to another.

The Jet Set Travel bag comes in the perfect size, it’s not too big or too small. Just the right size to store your most valuable items along with a pair of sunglasses and a compact umbrella. And even with those items inside, you can still fit a thin cardigan since the bag still has enough room.

A great traveling crossbody bag that worth every penny.

• Outside phone pocket equipped with magnetic clasp
• Perfect size for travel
• A great deal considering it’s a designer brand
• Well-made and very sturdy
• It’s a popular designer brand, it may attract robbers

MyFriday Small Crossbody Phone Bag

Never bring anything other than your phone, passport, and credit card during a day trip in Europe? This compact crossbody bag is made for you. With a waterproof design, chic choices of colors, and plenty of slots for cards, MyFriday Small Crossbody Phone Bag makes the best cross body bag for travel in Europe.

The good things don’t stop there. It comes with two different lengths of an adjustable strap which you can use depending on your mood. The biggest compartment fits Samsung Galaxy Note, which basically means most phones will fit into the purse. With a wide range of choices of colors, there’s something for everyone.

It’s small but mighty!

• Super lightweight
• Enough compartments
• Compact design
• Comes with both adjustable long and short strap choices
• Poor quality zippers

Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag

For less than 30 USD, Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag makes the best handbag for traveling in Europe. First of all, the bag is lightweight and comes in several cute choices of colors. It seems well-made from the look of its quality stitches and canvas material. The bag is also versatile enough, you can carry it on your shoulder or use the longer strap as a cross body bag.

Most tote bags are built with an open compartment. But Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag has a zippered compartment for safer storage. The bag stretches to 10” deep and this can be both a pro and cons. On a brighter note, you will definitely notice if someone tries to unzip your bag and reach inside. It is both safe and comfortable, and that’s why it’s the best purse for traveling in Europe.

Well-made, very stylish, and more than enough to carry your traveling essentials.

• Well-made and sturdy
• Provides wide straps for better weight distribution
• Zippered main compartment
• Available in several fun colors
• Built of quality stitching and quality canvas
• Some users mentioned a strong chemical smell

Michael Kors XS Carry All Jet Set Travel

Many people prefer designer bags for the very obvious reasons: their top-notch quality. And most of the time, it’s a great bang for the buck. Michael Kors XS Carry All Jet Set Travel is no exception, the quality precedes its popularity.

As the best handbag for traveling in Europe, XS Carry All Jet Set Travel comes in a perfect size. It’s well-made, lightweight, and makes a great gift idea as well! The most fun part is that you’ll get a longer strap, so you can use it both as a handbag and a crossbody bag. With seven choices of charming colors, you can definitely add a touch of personality as you travel.

Small and great handbag with fun choices of colors. Perfect for traveling and comes with a very reasonable price tag.

• Lightweight
• Comes with a crossbody strap
• Perfect size for a travel purse
• Not the safest product to stroll around with

LOVEVOOK Tote Satchel Hobo Set

With so many amazing and chic choices of colors, Lovevook Tote Satchel Hobo Set makes the best purse for traveling in Europe. And that’s because it doesn’t compromise on its function. For less than 50 USD, you can get a set of three bags: a handbag, a small sling bag, and a slim pouch. Each is great on its own and you can either take the shoulder bag or slim pouch for when you’re traveling in Europe.

People are praising its high-quality material, which is on par with most high-end handbags. Get ready to get compliments as you use the bags! Join a large number of fans of this bag and get yourself the best purse for traveling in Europe.

A set of three includes a handbag, a cute sling bag, and a slim pouch. All is great on its own.

• Great choices of colors
• True to display
• The purse holds its shape
• Looks expensive, may attract robbers

Baggallini Slim Hobo Bag

Another best purse for traveling in Europe from Baggalini, the Slim Hobo Bag should definitely be your next travel companion. Your first impression may be about how the bag looks compact and decent. You may know that the brand is notably popular online for its simple yet highly functional bags. And the Slim Hobo Bag is included in everyone’s favorites.

The bag is perfect for anyone who loves to keep their things organized. You’ll find several zippered pockets both inside and outside of the bag. The included coin purse is RFID protected, it’s the perfect place to keep your credit cards and passports. On top of all these features, the bag is also lightweight and water-resistant.

The price is rather inexpensive compared to other Baggallini bags. But it doesn’t compromise on the quality nonetheless.

• Durable & water-resistant
• One pocket is RFID-protected
• Roomy main compartment
• Very helpful to keep your items organized
• Issues with the strap

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag

So, what does it take to be at the best of the best purse for traveling in Europe? It needs to be able to cover all three things a traveling purse should have. As the name suggests, Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag features a sufficient security system with its RFID-covered card slots. Carrying the things you only need while traveling in Europe is highly recommended. Aside from its comfort issue, it’s mainly to minimize the risk if the worst-case scenario happens.

It brings us to the second element, which is size and compartments. Overall, the Body Bucket Bag comes in a perfect size for travel. Wait… scratch that, it IS made for travel. Keeping that in mind, the manufacturer did a great job in designing the bag. It holds your traveling essentials and more, you can even put water bottles on the sides of this bag!

When it comes to comfort, you don’t have to worry about having a sore shoulder after a long day. The strap decent enough to hold weight without having to hurt you. All these features are all in one bag that costs less than 50 USD. Look no more, we’ve got the winner here.

Everything you need in the best purse for traveling in Europe is covered in this bag.

• Surprisingly very roomy
• Comfortable to use for long hours
• Water-resistant material
• Easy to clean
• Uncomfortable shoulder padding

Author:  Emma Landa

I'm a traveler with a thirst for adventure and a passion for style. From the runways of Paris to the boutiques of Milan, I've traveled the world in search of the most glamorous and exclusive fashion experiences. I love nothing more than indulging in the latest designer collections and discovering hidden gems in the world of fashion. I've explored the streets of Tokyo, discovering unique and avant-garde styles that are pushing the boundaries of fashion. And in New York, I've attended the most exclusive fashion shows, rubbing shoulders with the industry's elite. But fashion isn't the only thing that I indulge in. I've also stayed in some of the most luxurious hotels and properties around the world. From the stunning resorts in Bali to the opulent villas in Tuscany, I know how to travel in style and comfort. Sharing my experiences and insights with others is something that I'm passionate about. Through my social media channels, I offer a glimpse into the world of luxury fashion and travel, inspiring others to explore the world of high-end fashion and indulge in the finer things in life. So, come along with me on my journey and let me show you the world of luxury fashion and travel like you've never seen it before!

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The 10 Best Travel Makeup Bags for Organized Chaos

From brands like Away, Beis, and Calpak.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

The best travel makeup bags of course come in many shapes and sizes, but our team of editors and experts came together to find the most incredible options for every type of makeup lover out there. Whether you only have a couple of staple products or have had to seriously consider bringing an additional carry-on to fit all of your beauty favorites during your travels, we've included options for you. Below, read on to find the best travel makeup bag for you.

The Best Travel Makeup Bags

• Best Overall: The Small Toiletry Bag
• Best Budget: Queboom Travel Makeup Bag
• Best Organizer: Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag
• Best Multi-Compartment: The Dopp Kit
• Best Bulk: Skkn by Kim Vanity Bag

What to Consider

When selecting the best travel makeup bag for yourself or for a giftee, you have a few things to consider before pressing "add to cart." First, you should check out how much space you really have in your travel backpack or carry-on to fit additional storage essentials. Then, you have to think about what you're putting in the bag. Will it only be small makeup items, or will you also want to throw in skincare essentials, small toiletries, and hair accessories? Once you have figured that out, consider the type of material your makeup bag should be. How important is it for you to be able to wash this? If it's a must, you'll obviously want something waterproof.

How much space do you have in your luggage to add a travel makeup bag? Will you mostly be throwing it into a weekender or a large suitcase that has miles of space inside? Consider what you're working with on the road (and in your perhaps very full closet), then peep at the travel makeup bag's dimensions to ensure it'll fit easily into your packing routine.

Laura Geller , a New York City-based makeup artist and entrepreneur who has her own namesake makeup brand filled with editor-loved products, says size is perhaps the most important factor shoppers should consider.

"I tend to travel with a lot of makeup so I can switch up my looks when I’m on my trips. I find a lot of the ones on the market are very small and only hold a few things, so I’m always on the hunt for one that can hold a lot," she explains. "Additionally, I like one that can lay flat ( hanging organizers work here, too) so that I can easily find everything, and I’m not rummaging for a product at the bottom of a bag."

Compartments

Are you a Type A traveler who needs everything divided into certain spaces? For example, will you want your blushes to stay in one pocket, your concealers to stay in another, and your brushes securely placed in built-in brush holders? Or, could you care less and just want something that'll fit everything?

"I love one where you don’t have to be worried about organizing all of your makeup, that holds a lot of product and is easy to find your items once it’s been opened," said Geller.

Either way is right, so long as it's what you or your giftee want. When looking for a travel makeup bag, make sure that it has enough compartments, pockets, and dividers to fulfill your needs.

Washable Material

If you or your giftee have experienced an exploded concealer or liquid blush from time to time, then you know how important a washable (specifically, a machine-washable) travel makeup bag is. Many of the best travel makeup bags on the market are made with at least wipeable material that makes for an easy clean-up.

How We Selected

Our product experts tested these travel makeup bags at home, on the road, and, of course, in the air and at hotels. We judged makeup bags for their organizational features, space, material, and giftability. Some of these selections have been used for years and years, while other newer ones have been put through the wringer for at least a few weeks. When we weren't traveling, we simulated the experience by bringing these travel makeup bags with us to the gym and to the office to determine how well they fit into commutes and luggage.

If we weren't able to test a bag, we conducted thorough research, vetted the brand, or took our expert's recommendations on what features a good travel makeup bag needs to be useful.

Why Trust Us

I have more than half a decade's worth of experience professionally testing and reviewing travel essentials and makeup. Additionally, I reached out to our beauty editor for her expert picks, as well as professional makeup artists who travel a lot to include their choices.

Away The Small Toiletry Bag

I wasn't at all shocked at the high quality of Away's Small Toiletry Bag — the beloved travel brand is known for its innovative creations that combine organization and aesthetics to create truly remarkable accessories, bags, and luggage .

What makes this travel makeup bag the best of the best is its sleek and useful features. The zip-up bag has two sections each with zip-up mesh enclosures that allow you to see your contents without having them spill on top of each other. One section is a deep pocket that is capable of fitting bigger items like hairbrushes, serums, or cleansers. The other side includes five brush holders as well as more open space for any additional items.

While the name says it's small, I found I was able to fit a lot of products inside, including several blushes, five brushes, cleansers, foundations, serums, and more.

The shape of the bag as well as the nylon material it's made with make for a sturdy traveler that can be smooshed a bit to fit into tight bags, but will keep its shape enough so that your items won't be crushed throughout your journey.

But, if any travel mishaps do occur and foundation spills or powder gets everywhere, you can easily wipe off smudges and stains since the interior is coated for easy wipe-downs.

This makeup bag comes in four chic and aesthetically-pleasing colorways. The white option would make a great gift for brides before they embark on honeymoons and the black would be a great gift for your boyfriend and his toiletries (he could use the brush holders for combs and other essentials).

When it comes to travel makeup bags, you'll be hard-pressed to find one more dependable than this.

Related: 44 Long-Flight Essentials to Make Traveling More Comfortable, Even If You’re Sitting in Coach

Queboom Queboom Travel Makeup Bag

If you're on a tight budget or are perhaps buying a bunch of travel makeup bags to gift your bachelorette party, or group of girlfriends before a trip, or are grabbing several as gifts for teens for your nieces or kids, you won't break the budget with this style.

Under $10, this Amazon favorite is similar to the Away bag in that it has a clamshell opening, a sturdy handle, and makeup brush holders (six to be exact). Though each side of this bag isn't sectioned off with zip-up closures, you will get a detachable zipped-up pouch with this buy. The addition comes in handy for hair ties, bobby pins, or jewelry that can easily be lost during travel.

Additionally, this bag is waterproof on the inside and outside, so you or your giftee can clean it up easily post-travel by simply tossing it in the washing machine.

There are a whopping 25 color options and patterns to choose from, but we're partial to this muted sage green or this bold yellow that would come in handy if you often lose things (nothing's easier to spot in a messy closet than a makeup bag that essentially glows in the dark).

KUSSHI Washable Travel Makeup and Cosmetic Everyday Bag

The Best Products beauty editor Nicole Saunders has endless knowledge on all things makeup. Seriously. Ask her anything and she'll know the answer and give you 17 recommendations in 16 seconds. So, of course, we had to tap her for some of her most coveted travel makeup bag recommendations.

"I love my Kusshi makeup bags and highly recommend them as a beauty gift to yourself or a loved one," she said. "They're available in two types of materials — fabric and leather — but I prefer fabric because it's cheaper and easy to clean if makeup accidentally gets on the exterior or interior lining. Speaking of, the vast variety of colorways to select ensures it matches everyone's personal style. I'm personally obsessed with the Candy Apple Red fabric with leopard interior because it's easy to spot in my workbag or suitcase."

There are three sizes to chose from, including the Everyday which holds up to 10 products, Signature which fits up to 20 products, and Vacationer which carries up to 30 products.

She says she can fit a good amount of product in the Signature size option, including foundation, powders, blushes, brushes, and lipsticks. We also got our hands on the Vacationer, and wow. That thing will fit your entire makeup collection easily. It just might also take up half of the space in your weekender/ carry-on...

Dagne Dover Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag

This travel makeup bag comes with so many goodies inside, you'll feel like it's Christmas opening it up. In addition to the three makeup brush holders, and a built-in mesh pocket, the bag comes with two removable zip-up pouches (the small size only has one). One's long and narrow and is great for holding combs, additional brushes, and mascara, while the other bigger option is stellar for organizing flat products like highlighters and powders.

The washable bag comes in small and large sizes and has three different finishes: neoprene, air mesh, or seasonal. It also comes with a unique locking securing system. Once you zip it up, you can then take each side fold and button it down so it's more compact.

Also, when you buy this bag you'll get a free duster to keep it in while you store it. However, I like this bag so much that I use it as my daily makeup bag. It's big enough to fit the essentials — I have two sunscreens, concealer, foundation, two blushes, a mascara, and a few eyebrow products in now — but doesn't take up a lot of coveted bathroom or closet space.

The quality of this travel makeup bag is impressive. Though it's flexible, the thick fabric keeps glass products protected from breaking during transit while still fitting into tight quarters inside bags or luggage.

Beis The Dopp Kit

If you're looking for a travel makeup bag that will fit a lot of products, look no further. This dual-compartment design from Beis is a big boy with big storage capabilities.

"Even though Beis lists dimensions on their website, I was still surprised by how big the Dopp kit was," said Best Products tester and writer Lauren Gruber . "I was able to fit my daily makeup and brushes in the top compartment and my skincare and perfume in the bottom compartment, which claims to be spill-proof."

She says the separate sections made it easier to organize all of her cosmetics and additional toiletries — there are two interior slip pockets to keep your toothbrush and medications separate.

This travel makeup bag also features a loop at the top that you can use in your bathroom or hotel room on towel hooks. "The design is very attractive and I love how it comes in so many colors coordinate with the rest of your Beis luggage," Gruber continued. "I could also see myself using it to keep my portable chargers, cables, and pens organized for a longer trip. I was packing into the Beis Front Pocket Carry-On Roller and I did find that it was difficult to get the Dopp kit to lay flat inside of my luggage when packed to the brim. For that reason, I would suggest pairing it with a larger piece of luggage like the Check-In Roller. "

Skkn By Kim Vanity Bag

To be honest, at first glance, I was thoroughly unimpressed by this $70 travel makeup bag. The floppy construction and minimal pocket and compartment options seemed like proof that it was overpriced and overhyped.

However, after giving this bag a chance, I realized just how useful the XL holder can be — thanks to the elastic loop system inside. The nine loops are meant for the brand's entire skincare system but do a stellar job at holding everything from contact solutions, serums, cleansers, foundations, shampoos, and more essentials. I didn't realize how big of a game-changer this was until I loaded it up on my own for a five-day trip.

Usually, I throw toiletries into my suitcase and hope for the best, but this bag allows for everything I need to stay in one spot. From small concealer brushes to large bottles of lotion, I fit it all.

Will this bag take up a good chunk of space in carry-on bags? Yes. But you'd be using that space regardless, so you might as well do so in an organized fashion.

It only comes in one colorway because Kim Kardashian famously loves muted and matching aesthetics, so don't expect any patterns. It'd make a great luxury gift for somebody who loves to Keep Up and has a mini Sephora store in their home.

Lay-n-Go Lay-n-Go Cosmo Drawstring Organizer

Geller recommends a travel makeup bag that's a bit unique to the average consumer. "I love this one from Amazon," she said of the Lay-n-Go. "I love it so much I actually got it for my entire marketing team as a holiday gift one year."

The clever style cinches up into a pouch bag but once loosened, lies flat like a pancake so you can see all of your products easily. Thanks to the dozen+ makeup loops throughout the bag, your concealers, brow gels, and mascaras will remain in place no matter what position the bag's in.

In addition to these holders, the travel makeup bag also has a zip-up pocket to hold smaller items like rings, watches, or hair ties.

This is a great gift idea for makeup lovers who perhaps get a little messy in hotel bathrooms with all of their belongings. They'll be able to see all of their makeup while getting ready for the day without having to take everything out and leave it in the sink... not that this has ever happened.

It comes in 30 pattern options ranging from neutral blacks and blues to eye-catching leopard and camo. Choose whatever fits your giftee's style for a more customized element.

Stoney Clover Travel Large Pouch

If you're looking for a beauty gift for somebody who loves glitz, glamor, and personal touches, look no further than a Stoney Clover pouch. These have long been loved by the internet for their chic design that photographs super well. You can choose to customize pouches (monograms are an extra $24 and patches are an additional $15) or get pre-made designs like this travel one, which will likely ship faster.

While they're great for holding pretty much everything, from brushes to snacks, expect a bit of chaos inside since there aren't any pockets, pouches, or brush holders to utilize. However, if you're just looking for something cute that'll hold whatever you need, this is a great option.

I've had this travel makeup bag for years and it's so handy at keeping literally everything I own in one spot. I use it as bulk storage for when I'm traveling for a long amount of time and have found it to be great at fitting larger items, like contact lens solutions, serums, and fragrances.

My only major qualm about this bag is that there aren't any pockets, slots, or makeup brush holders that would organize my items. So, when I use it, I expect a bit of chaos and a bit of my time rummaging through it. It's hard to find another makeup bag out there as cute and as giftable, though.

In addition to being a stellar travel makeup bag, this pouch could also be a useful pencil pouch, accessories holder, or desk organizer.

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag

Hanging toiletry bags are great options that double as travel makeup bags. This best-selling one from Amazon has four different compartments, a bunch of inner pockets, and elastic straps that hold everything from shampoo bottles to eyeshadow palettes. To top it all off (literally) a hanger head is attached so you or your giftee can easily hang the bag on racks at home or in hotels.

The different compartments have useful design features like elastic straps and double zippers to hold large bottles upright and in place. The transparent sides are also great because you can peak inside and note what you have without having to unzip the entire bag and search through it.

Choose from 2 size options and 8 colorways to match your luggage or aesthetic.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Makeup Bag

Another recommendation from Saunders, this travel makeup bag from celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury is compact but chock-full of useful design elements.

"It's the perfect gift for someone like me who has a sizeable beauty collection and wants to keep everything as organized as possible," Saunders explained. "I have a compartment for eyeliners, brow pencils, and mascaras, another for eyeshadow quads and singles, and one solely for my lipsticks. It's a small detail, but I appreciate that the zipper never gets stuck, which has happened more often than not with other makeup bags I've tested. Not only is this bag functional, but it's stunning! The classic pillow talk pink faux leather exterior with the cheeky lip and lipstick print is gorgeous and lives proudly as a display piece on my shelf."

The accordion-style bag has five compartments, a zipper pouch, and a zipper closure. And, perhaps most importantly, it features a bold lip design that's the same color as the brand's iconic Pillow Talk lipstick .

Related: Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Foundation Is Our Beauty Editor’s Biggest Makeup Secret

Summer Cartwright is senior editor for Best Products and FirstFinds and is based in New York. She has written and edited for sites including Cosmo , People , InStyle , Food & Wine , Real Simple , and StyleCaster . Her interests outside of work include running, eating dessert, and playing with her two cats, Peaky and Polly. She received her master’s degree in magazine writing from New York University, and her bachelor’s degree in public affairs journalism from The Ohio State University.

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11 Designer Bags You Can Shop for $300 or Less That Don’t Sacrifice Quality for Cost

Whether you keep up with the fashion market or not, you probably know designer handbag costs are soaring (think Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès). These luxury brands seem to be playing hard to get, and we often can’t justify spending much of our paychecks on them. The good news? Mid-range brands are recognizing the demand for designer bags under $300.

Today, designer handbags under $300 are the perfect pieces for those who want the look and feel of a high-end purse but are on a slightly more affordable budget. These accessories don’t sacrifice quality for cost and remind shoppers that “you should always make your purchases based on quality and design rather than a brand name,” says Alexa Eshaghzadeh and Jordan Gross, celebrity stylists and co-founders of Alexa Jordan Curations . “While there are definitely higher priced bags that we would encourage clients to invest in, there are many attainable designer bags that marry a high-quality look and an affordable price, and we always recommend them to our clients.”

• Alexa Eshaghzadeh , celebrity stylist and co-founder of Alexa Jordan Curations
• Jordan Gross , celebrity stylist and co-founder of Alexa Jordan Curations
• Zoe Gofman , celebrity stylist

Wondering where to find these bags? “Those looking for designer handbags under $300 should look to brands like St. Agni, Flattered, Masur Gavriel, and Loeffler Randall,” notes celebrity stylist Zoe Gofman . “These designers craft high-quality bags, from tote bags to gym bags and crossbody bags , with durable fabrics and various color choices.”

Keep reading because we’ve rounded up the best designer bags under $300 that are elevated and on par with the luxury bags on our wishlist.

• 01 what to look for
• 02 designer bags under $300
• 03 why are designer bags expensive?

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Best designer bags under $300, at a glance

• Fréja Caroline Bag , $258
• Staud Carmen Beaded Box Bag , $295
• Behno Elizabeth Baguette Bag , $295
• Loeffler Randall Billie Flap Bag , $295
• Tory Burch Mesh Tote , $248
• Ganni Small Shopper Tote , $195
• Mansur Gavriel Large Tote , $235
• Simon Miller Lopsy Bag , $295
• Manebi Raffia Bag , $205
• St. Agni Mini Bon Bon Bag , $210
• Dragon Diffusion Pom Pom Bucket Bag , $265

What to consider when shopping for a designer handbag

A designer handbag in neutral colors is always a good choice. These hues are the most versatile, able to be paired with other neutrals, pops of color, and prints alike. Gross and Eshaghzadeh agree that a simple black, brown, or tan is a safe way to invest in an expensive bag. However, they recommend bold colorways for trendier, less expensive bags, as they don’t have to be as adaptable to all seasons and outfits.

The saying “quality over quantity” holds true when it comes to owning designer handbags. That is because the higher the quality is, the less likely you will have to replace it. “You also always want to make sure the quality of a handbag is good,” says Gross and Eshaghzadeh. “When doing this, examine the hardware, stitching, and materials. Bags with strong stitching are usually less likely to tear and have a longer lifespan. We also always encourage our clients to invest in bags with metal hardware.” Metal can withstand heavy loads and wear and tear, so you can feel comfortable that your bag can hold anything hefty you throw in it. If you’re looking for more education regarding which designer handbags are worth your dollars, check out Tanner Leatherstein , an internet personality who distinguishes between goods made with quality leather and quality craftsmanship and those that cut corners.

Before purchasing a designer bag, consider how big or small you want the bag to be based on what you will be using it for and what you will be carrying in it. “For an evening bag, we will always push for something smaller as our clients typically won’t want to carry a large bag on a night out,” says Gross and Eshaghzadeh. “For a daytime bag, we encourage bigger bags that will fit everything you need for the day.” If a client or customer is looking for a trend-forward or seasonal bag, Gross and Eshaghzadeh recommend spending less on those designs as they won’t be worn often. “For example, we’ve been loving the ALC Simone Raffia Bag for summer,” says Gross and Eshaghzadeh. “It is a lower price point and chic for the summer, rather than spending over $1,000 on a designer raffia summer bag as it likely won’t be used as the season changes.”

Versatility

“When considering versatility in a designer handbag, think about when and where the bag will be used,” says Gross and Eshaghzadeh. For example, when shopping for a day-to-day handbag, you’ll want to ensure it fits everyday necessities. You also want to make sure it’s easy to carry throughout the day and has features like a soft strap that rests comfortably on the body and pockets that allow you to organize your goods.

Personal style

Gofman notes that your style is the most important thing to consider whether you’re shopping for a $250 or an over-$1,000 designer bag. “Since my style tends to be more classic and simple, I love sprucing up my look with a colorful bag or something a bit louder,” she says. While there is always a time and place for a minimalist bag and outfit, choosing a bag with more personality can help counterbalance a simple outfit and make it visually intriguing.

Shop the best designer bags under $300

If your Instagram feed is anything like ours, then you’ve probably noticed Fréja’s Caroline Bag on the arms of your favorite style influencers. This bag is all the rage because it’s designed in collaboration with digital creator Caroline Lin, made locally in New York City, features vegan leather that feels and looks durable, and has no hardware, which the brand notes is intentional for maximum versatility. “Many of our clients have this one and get a lot of use out of it,” says Gross and Eshaghzadeh. “We love it, especially for the daytime.”

Staud’s Carmen Beaded Box Bag is perfect for anyone attending a wedding or gala. The intricately beaded design has a feminine feel, while the structured box construction adds a touch of sophistication suitable for black-tie events. Despite its small appearance, rest assured that you can fit all your evening essentials and more.

A glance at the F/W 2024 runways and you’ll notice that east-west bags were having a major moment. So, hop on this year’s biggest bag trend with Behno’s Elizabeth Baguette Bag. It has a logoless design that works for all styles, a strong magnetic closure that keeps your belongings safe, and two long shoulder straps that allow the bag to hit your lower rib cage. “This is the perfect low-key statement bag,” says Gross and Eshaghzadeh. “It is timeless and well-made. We also love the wide array of color options from red and lilac to silver and gold.”

Update your collection of white handbags for this season and beyond. The Loeffler Randall Billie Flap Bag is a perfect choice. It features a complete woven design similar to Bottega Veneta’s handbags but without the high price tag. The bag also has a magnetic snap closure to keep your belongings safe and a card slot in the interior for easy access when making a purchase. Trust us, this bag looks luxurious, especially with an all-white outfit.

Between footwear and handbags, mesh is the hottest fabric this summer. So, hop on the bandwagon and invest in Tory Burch’s new Mesh Tote. This bag has a screen-like weave that’s cool-looking, breathable, and summer-ready. It also has a napa leather-trimmed tulle around the perimeter of the bag and on the straps for maximum durability.

Customers are raving about Ganni’s handbags due to their eco-friendly approach and charming designs. The Shopper Tote has a small, lightweight design with a nautical stripe pattern that makes it perfect for pairing with a suit and heading to the beach. It comes with an adjustable and removable shoulder strap and an embroidered logo. This tote will elevate your summer looks whether you opt for the blue- or red-stripe version.

Mansur Gavriel is a luxury accessories brand known for its classic handbags, all made in Italy. The brand’s products are crafted with quality materials that improve with age. The large tote bag is a great example of the brand’s expertise, featuring a clean, structured design suitable for everyday use. This bag is versatile whether you’re off to the office or dropping off your kids at school. According to Gross and Eshaghzadeh, “This is a great travel or work bag.” Gofman adds, “We love that it can fit a laptop and is durable enough to hold all your travel necessities.” This timeless bag has stood the test of time and remains stylish, making it a safe purchase.

“We also love the Simon Miller Lopsy bag,” says Gross and Eshaghzadeh. “This is a great summer daytime bag that can also be used for a casual summer night out. We love the size as it can go from day to night, and we love the faux leather material since it’s eco-friendly. This is a great alternative to the Bottega Jodie Bag.” Gross and Eshaghzadeh note that it is the perfect addition to any summer or vacation look and recommend styling it with a white outfit or sundress.

Don’t leave for your next vacation or weekend getaway without Manebi’s Raffia Bag. This slouchy, hand-woven purse exudes the relaxed feeling when you’re finally lying on a lounge chair with a refreshing beverage in your hand. It completes all outfits, from linen pants and bathing suits to a maxi skirt and cardigan, making them look effortless. “This is a great summer bag, especially perfect for vacations,” adds Gross and Eshaghzadeh. “You can take it from day to night, from the beach to the bar, and beyond.”

“St.Agni is one of my favorite brands—I love their quality and minimalist style approach,” says Gofman. Its Mini Bon Bon bag is a perfectly sized crescent bag that can fit a phone, large wallet, keys, and multiple lip glosses. It also has a short handle that rests comfortably on the hand. The simple design pairs nicely with its sustainable-forward construction, which features vegetable-dyed suede leather lined in organic cotton. “You can wear this bag super casually or dress it up,” notes Gofman.

If last year’s fashion trends indicate what this year will bring, it’s safe to say that Dragon Diffusion’s woven leather bags will be in high demand. While I and other fashion enthusiasts love the brand’s totes, we are particularly interested in the brand’s bucket bag. It has a cylindrical shape, a deep interior, pom pom details, and a long shoulder strap. Gross and Eshaghzadeh say, “This is one of our favorite summer bags! It’s so easy to travel with because it’s small and can be folded neatly into a suitcase. Plus, whether you choose the white or tan option, it will elevate any outfit!”

Why are designer handbags so expensive?

While it’s not entirely black-and-white, the high cost of designer handbags can be justified by several factors. Designers take into account the cost of materials and craftsmanship, as well as supply and demand and inflation. Brands aim to maintain exclusivity by setting higher prices, as the more expensive a handbag is, the more difficult it is to obtain, leading to increased demand.

“Designer handbags have higher price tags because brands want to keep their customer base exclusive,” notes Eshaghzadeh and Gross. “The higher the price of a handbag, the harder it is to obtain, increasing demand.

The rising cost of designer handbags is also influenced by brand value. As a company’s value and reputation grow, the prices of its products tend to rise. This ties in with exclusivity, as brands may limit their inventory when they receive a lot of buzz to maintain their prestige.

“While some designer price tags may be getting out of hand, I think more times than not, it’s worth your dollars,” says Gofman. “Of course, there are more amazing options under $1,000 each season, but these bags will not hold the same value as designer handbags. Ultimately, when you spend more, you may get more value because the bag typically lasts longer and is more versatile.”

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