The Best Crossbody Bags for Easy Travel
Keep your belongings safe and accessible while traveling with these lightweight, stylish purses.
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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
To find the best crossbody travel bags, we considered top brands and styles that our fiber scientists and travel pros in the Good Housekeeeping Institute Textiles Lab — who test travel gear and fashion accessories of all kinds — have evaluated in the Lab and with consumer testers, as well as the ones our product experts personally use in their everyday lives. After reviewing everything from the materials and packing compartments to convenience, durability and appearance, we're confident these are your best bets for travel and beyond.
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.
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Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag Large 2L
Pros
- Unisex design
- Lightweight and water-resistant materials
- Adjustable strap (can also be worn as a fanny pack)
Cons
- Not as easy to access contents when worn against torso
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
Pros
- Curved shape fits comfortably across the body
- Lightweight materials
- Users say it holds more than they expected
Cons
- Materials don't appear as luxe as other picks on this list
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
Vera Bradley Featherweight Crossbody Purse
Pros
- Lightweight, water-repellent fabric
- Packable for carrying in a suitcase
- Long adjustable strap
Cons
- Some may find the size too bulky
Though the style looks and feels substantial, it's surprisingly 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
Baggallini Central Park Sling Crossbody
Pros
- Organizational compartments
- RFID protection
- Extra buckle to prevent pickpocketing
Cons
- Some online reviewers say the zippers can be finnicky
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
Leatherology Meadow Large Satchel
Pros
- Stylish design loved by celebrities
- Handy interior organization compartments
- Good price for a genuine leather bag
Cons
- A bit heavier than other travel bags
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
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
Pros
- Clips to keep zippers closed and straps secured
- RFID-blocking pockets
- Amazon's Choice with thousands of five-star reviews
Cons
- Less spacious than other styles
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
Nite Ize Runoff Waterproof Hip Pack
Pros
- Waterproof design keeps belongings dry under water
- Clear panel gives access to touch-screen devices
- Convertible strap
Cons
- Specific to water activities, making it less versatile than other styles
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
Pros
- Built-in compartments on the strap
- Detachable design means you can use the pouch and strap separately
- Lightweight material with a water-repellent finish
Cons
- Less spacious than other styles
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
Pros
- Bottle pouch that tucks inside when not in use
- Several pockets and organizational features
- Comfy sling style
Cons
- Doesn't hold as much as other crossbody styles
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
Lululemon All Night Festival Bag 5L
Pros
- Fold-over closure keeps contents extra secure
- Wide opening for convenient access
- Spacious capacity
Cons
- Contains magnets, which can interfere with some devices and credit cards
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)
Pros
- Plenty of organizational compartments
- Spacious interior
- Wide strap for support
Cons
- Exterior phone pocket is not zippered
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
Pros
- Chic quilted pattern
- Includes three convertible straps
- Spacious with built-in pockets
Cons
- Pricey for a nylon 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
Pros
- Expandable design
- Interchangeable straps
- Elegant look for dressy outfits
Cons
- Smaller size means less packing capacity
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
Pros
- Spacious to carry a large load
- High-quality leather
- Wear as a crossbody or over the shoulders
Cons
- No zipper closure
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
Pros
- Upscale design
- Durable, long-lasting materials
- Compact yet roomy inside
Cons
- Unzippered design means contents are less secure
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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