Best Travel Crossbody Bags for Women

In this article, we will explore the best travel crossbody bags for women.

Crossbody bags (or crossbody purses) are one of my favorite accessories!

And, I am not only talking about travel accessories.  They are my everyday go-to choice.

After having purchase dozens of crossbody travel bags (hope my husband is not reading this), here are my recommendations if you are considering going this route.

Please note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link. Of course this comes as no extra cost to you and helps me to keep offering solid information to readers.

Best Crossbody Travel Bags At A Glance

Choosing a women’s crossbody travel bag is a personal thing. Because of that, I have chosen to include in this article a wide variety of options.  Find below a high-level view of the crossbody travel purses reviewed in this article.

Why Use a Crossbody Bag for Travel?

After traveling locally, nationally, and internationally for over 20 years, the benefits of crossbody bags have outperformed other travel bags I have used.

Here are some of the reasons why I use this type of purse:

• It allows me to be hands-free
• If allows me to reach the contents inside the bag easily (I do not have to move the bag to the front like with a backpack)
• I do not have to worry about somebody ripping the crossbody travel purse from my shoulder
• I do not have to worry about the bag falling from my shoulder
• There is plenty of space to carry my daily essentials
• The size of the crossbody travel bags I tend to pick is just right to avoid having to leave them in a locker
• I do not get a sweaty back during hot days (like when you are wearing a backpack)
• All my essentials (including documents) are already packed in the case of an emergency.  I once was evacuated from a hotel in London in the middle of the night and I picked my bag before exiting the room.
• I do not have to separate from the bag if I do not want to.  To me, the main advantage of a travel shoulder or crossbody bag is that you can eat at a restaurant, ride on a bus (or other transportation modes), ride a bicycle, and even use the restroom without having to take it off.  This fact gives me so much peace of mind
• Also, you can invest in the best crossbody travel purse in the market and use it on other adventures (hiking, beach hopping) and run daily errands.

Which are the Best Cross-Body Bags for Travel?

Even though the term “best” is subjective and personal,  I will provide my opinion on what factors I take into consideration when choosing a good crossbody travel bag.

Size – You may want to choose a medium-sized piece with enough space to carry daily essentials.  If you choose a small crossbody bag, it may be difficult to have all your stuff well-organized and it may be complicated to take out particular pieces.  Plus, you may want to have a bit of space left for things you buy or things you need to temporarily store.  If you choose a super large crossbody bag, you may be tempted to bring too much.  Then, you are going to be bothered by the weight (and your neck will suffer).

Weight – In this case, weight refers to the material used to manufacture the piece. You want to choose a lightweight crossbody bag, ideally something that weighs less than a pound.  For example, leather crossbody bags can weigh up to 3 pounds.  If you want to rock the leather looks, I will choose a soft leather crossbody bag.

Anti-Theft Features – Repeat after me, you want to get an anti-theft crossbody bag if possible.  This means choosing a purse made of material difficult to slash and a sturdy strap.  Some brands add locking zippers and straps that allow you to secure the bag to a non-stationary object.

RFID Blocking Features – Without getting too technical, you want to get a bag that secures your credit card and passport information.  Nowadays, the information contained on those can be read with all sorts of devices.  It may not be possible to get an entire RFID blocking crossbody bag.  Usually, bags come with an RFID pocket.  Only what is inside the pocket is protected.

Water-Resistant – Oh, this is such an important feature! I do not have to tell you about protecting all your essentials from water.  

Tons of pockets –  The more pockets, the better in terms of organization

Side Pockets – These types of pockets are so helpful when you need to carry a bottle of liquid.  One pocket is good, two is better.

Color – This is a less important factor on the list.  However, I would choose a dark color over a light color because I do not want to deal with a bag that looks dirty. And, I love color but when I travel, I am the “black crossbody bag” or “brown crossbody bag” boring lady.

Style – I know we all want to look good when traveling.  Hey, I am all in when it comes to a stylish crossbody bag or a designer crossbody bag. However, versatility and security are top priorities when making a decision.  I have noticed that is kind of complicated to find a super cute bag with all the practical bells and whistles I am looking for.  So, I pick something that looks good but I am sure it is not something that you will find in a fashion magazine.

Best Crossbody Travel Bag

Before digging into different features and styles, I want to mention my favorite crossbody travel bag.

For years, I traveled with a brown, sporty crossbody bag from REI.  When it was time for a replacement, my heart broke since the style was discontinued.  After testing several bags, I wasn’t sure I was going to find a product that covers all the boxes.

That was my thinking until I stumbled upon the Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag.  Don’t get fooled by the name.  This is a dreamy travel crossbody bag!

Let me start by saying that the Travelon Crossbody Bags have some of the best ratings on online retailers.  Well, there is a reason behind the craze!

This bag is made of a light but sturdy (anti-slash) material.  On the outside, it has pockets in the front and in the back.  On the inside, there are two sets of pockets too.  It even comes with a small flashlight that allows you to search the bag contents in low light conditions.

In summary, the bag allows me to be super organized and carry all I need.  The two side or slip pockets are fantastic too.  

As you can see, there a multitude of reasons why this is my favorite crossbody bag for travel.

Pros

• 5 Anti-Theft Features including RFID Protected Pocket
• Light
• Water-Resistant
• Tons of Pockets (Including Two Side Pockets)
• Colors to Choose From

Cons

• <centerThe bag is longer than wider (or, more vertical than horizontal).  Sometimes, I find it difficult to find specific items and do not like the fact that I have to pile things on top of others.

Before moving on, I want to mention that Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag may be a better option for those that prefer a more horizontal bag.  

This bag has the same pros as the Messenger Bag but is wider and has more space. This will work better for people who want to carry books, tables, and DSLR cameras.  

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Best Cross Body Bags for Traveling

It is time to move on with the rest of the recommendations.

Small Crossbody Bag

Those who are interested in carrying the minimum (wallet, cellphone, keys), should consider the Secura Ant-Theft Sling Messenger Crossbody Bag.

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This little bag is slash-resistant, has an RFID blocking pocket and locking zippers.  The thick, adjustable strap makes it easy to wear.  And, the great thing is that this bag makes you look sharp.  It perfectly goes with business and business casual attire.

Now, this is my small crossbody bag choice.  Small is small.  You will not be able to fit the essentials plus a camera, or umbrella, or tablet, or guide book here.

Pros

• Fantastic Price
• Anti-Theft Features including RFID Protected Pocket
• Light
• Water-Resistant
• Tons of Pockets (Including Two Side Pockets)
• Colors to Choose From

Cons

• Minimal Space
• No Side Pockets

Sporty Crossbody Bag

If you are looking for ample space, great value, and do not mind rocking a more sporty look, the SUKRY Nylon Crossbody Bag will work wonders for you.

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Because of its size, this bag is a good companion to your carry-on suitcase.  As an example, it can fit a wallet, phone, camera, 11-inches tablet (such as an iPad), and much more.  When it comes to functionality, the bag has 10 pockets including two front pockets, a middle pocket, and a back pocket.

The anti-theft features refer to the zipper design and RFID-protected pocket.  Notice the bag is made of nylon.  Even though the material is stalwart, keep in mind it may not be as slash-proof as other bags I have recommended in the article.

Pros

• Fantastic Price
• Anti-Theft Features including RFID Pocket
• Water-Resistant
• Tons of Pockets (Including Two Side Pockets)
• Over 10 Colors to Choose From

Cons

• Not as stylish as you may want
• Sturdy but not completely slash-resistant

Nylon Crossbody Bag

Ok, bear with me since I have another nylon crossbody bag recommendation.

The MHCNLL Crossbody Travel Purse is pretty similar in features to the SUKRY Nylon Crossbody Bag (about the same size, price, and utility).  So, it works fantastic as a luggage complement or travel day bag. 

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Now, I feel like the MHCNLL Crossbody Travel Purse has a better design.  I think I find it more appealing from a style perspective because it has more straight lines.  

In addition, the tip of the zippers are rounded.  That adds to the cool look. Plus, it is so much easier to open bags with these types of zippers (easy for you to open, not strangers).

The side pocket may not stretch as much as one would want.

Pros

• Fantastic Price
• Anti-Theft Features including RFID Protected Pocket
• Water-Resistant
• Tons of Pockets (Including One Side Pockets)
• Stylish
• Over 8 Colors to Choose From (Including Fun Prints)

Cons

• Sturdy but not completely slash-resistant

By the way, this is the model I own (love this pattern!)

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Brown Leather Crossbody

There is something so appealing about brown leather crossbodies.  I do not know if it is because I am such a fan of the boho and cowgirl looks.

Anyway, my brown leather crossbody pick is the Estalon Crossbody Bag for Women.  This gorgeous bag, made with 100% leather, has good structure, capacity, and functionality.  It has two front pockets, an inside pocket, and a phone holder.

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And, guess what?  You can choose from over 6 shades of brown.  Yes, you read that right.  If you want to go the blue or green crossbody route, you can do that.

On the negative side, I am not a fan of the bag’s strap.  To me, it negatively impacts the design and it would not keep up with the lifestyle of the bag.

Pros

• Fantastic Price
• Front Pockets
• Stylish
• Over 10 Colors to Choose From
• Can be Used for Any Occasion

Cons

• No Specific Anti-Theft Features
• No Side Pockets

For a bigger version of this bag, click here!

Black Leather Crossbody

If you prefer how black leather looks, you can buy the Estalon Crossbody Bag for Women (recommended above) in black or go for the COCHOA Real Leather Crossbody Bag.

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This bag has a simple but exquisite design.  In this case, the strap totally goes with the material used on the rest of the bag.  Another exciting thing is that leather becomes more beautiful with age.  This is a piece that keeps getting better and better with use.

Pros

• Good Price
• Front Pockets
• Stylish
• 6 Colors to Choose From
• Can be Used for Any Occasion

Cons

• No Specific Anti-Theft Features
• No Side Pockets

Vegan Crossbody Bag

The Scarleton Large Crossbody Shoulder Purse is a top option for those who want to stay away from animal products.

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The bag is manufactured using washed leather, a synthetic, soft, and pliable material.  And, I have to give a shoutout to Scarleton since it is a brand founded in Los Angeles.

This bag has plenty of space to store all your essentials (including a regular-sized tablet such as an iPad), two front pockets, and several inner pockets.  In addition, the bag is water-resistant and can be wiped with a damp cloth.

Pros

• Fantastic Price
• Front Pockets
• Stylish
• Water-Resistant
• 10 Colors to Choose From
• Can be Used for Any Occasion

Cons

• No Specific Anti-Theft Features
• No Side Pockets

Hobo Crossbody Bag

My hobo crossbody bag pick is on fire! I cannot tell you how much I adore the Realer Hobo Bag for Women.  And, even though hobo and boho are not synonyms, this bag makes for an awesome boho crossbody bag too.

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This bag offers tons of space and good structure.  The main compartment is divided into two and there are pockets on both sides.  The design includes handles and a long strap.  Therefore, you have options when it comes to carry or wear the bag.  Oh, and it has tassles! Don’t you love tassels?

The color selection is crazy too.  You have tons of options.

Pros

• Fantastic Price
• Stylish
• Anti-Scratching
• Anti-Fading
• Slightly Water-Resistant
• Plenty of  Colors to Choose From
• Can be Used for Any Occasion

Cons

• No Specific Anti-Theft Features
• Weighs About 2 Pounds

Colorful or Floral Crossbody Bag

The options I have discussed above are available in specific colors.  Because of this, I need like I need to present a more colorful, eclectic option.

This is where the Vera Bradley Women’s Signature Cotton Hipster Crossbody Purse comes into play.  This bag can be ordered in about 30 different prints. There are so many beautiful options to choose from.

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As other bags discussed here, the Vera Bradley has outside and inside pockets, making it easy to organize essentials.  Keep in mind the bag is tall and wide but slim.  

Pros

• Good Price
• Light
• Plenty of  Patterns to Choose From
• Machine Washable

Cons

• No Specific Anti-Theft Features
• Non-Water-Resistant
• Can Get Dirty Easily

Stylish Crossbody Bag

When it comes to style, I cannot get enough of the Fossil Women’s Fiona Crossbody Purse.  It comes in different colors but my favorites are the black & white (black stripe) and the snake print (silver).

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The other thing that I like about this bag is that it is pretty even when it comes to height and width.  That gives the person wearing it a slick look.

Pros

• Super Stylish
• High-Quality Materials
• Good Structure 
• Pockets

Cons

• Higher Price When Compared to Other Recommendations
• No Specific Anti-Theft Features

A larger version of this bag can be found here.

Minimal Phone Crossbody Bag

I know some ladies do not mind going the minimal route.  If you feel comfortable only carrying bills, credit cards, and a cell phone, the Valentoria Small Crossbody Handbag is a great option.

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The main compartment of this bag opens like a wallet.  There is plenty of space to organize ID cards, credit cards, bills, and documents.  There is a front pocket designed to hold your cell phone and small items.  Coins and other must-carry can be stashed in the back pocket.

Now, you will need to be extra careful with this bag since, due to its size, it is easy to misplace or leave behind.  It is better to not take it off.

Pros

• Super Light
• Tons of Colors to Choose From

Cons

• Minimal Space

Hope you are as excited with crossbody bags as me!

What is your favorite travel crossbody bag?

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