Travel Gear & Essentials

27 best crossbody bags for travel in 2025

27 best crossbody bags for travel in 2025

Crossbody bags for travel quick picks

As you’re rounding out your travel gear collection, it’s important to make sure you have a crossbody bag to keep all your essentials on hand while you adventure. Whether you opt for a functional anti-theft bag or a more fashionable purse, a crossbody is a versatile handbag no matter where you are.

We rounded up a range of styles at different prices that can fit into your personal style and work for different kinds of trips. Whether you’re heading out for a European getaway and want something chic or you’re heading to Disney and need function and storage, there’s a crossbody bag that’s right for your trip.

Mini crossbody bags

This bag comes in bright tones as well as some classic neutrals and has an adjustable strap so you can fit it snugly across your chest. The bungee cord bands on the outside can hold your water bottle or phone for quick access. It offers 2.3 liters of interior storage, and it’s a great option for outdoor adventures and park trips.

While the design of this crossbody has a streamlined and fashionable look, the water-resistant nylon material makes it smart for a range of activities. There are three pockets: an exterior zip pocket, a larger interior pocket and a hidden magnetic closure back pocket. It’s an under-$50 option that’s great if you’re looking to add something to your bag lineup that doesn’t break the bank.

While Lululemon’s belt bags went viral (and for good reason), the editor-loved brand also has a great crossbody option. The wide opening makes it easy for you to quickly find items you’ve stored, and the water-repellent material makes it great for all kinds of climates. The bag is bigger than it appears, since the large pocket opens up and then folds down to close with a magnet.

Quince adds a quilted detail to this bag and gives you a different silhouette from a sling bag or belt bag. It comes in three deep and neutral colors and has three pockets for lots of storage. It should lie flat, so if you’re packing it in your carry-on or checked bag, it won’t take up much space.

A sling bag fits snugly on your chest or side, and this Baggallini option does just that while giving you lots of storage. There’s a quick-access phone pocket and interior organization pockets to keep your belongings in place while you’re traveling, including three RFID card slots.

Two separate pockets give you a built-in organization system with this sling bag. The organization system includes card slots and a divider. The strap is adjustable for a comfortable fit, and it’s great for holding your small essentials. The leather construction also adds some style and sophistication.

For less than $20, this Bagsmart bag provides tons of storage with lots of organization. You’ll find five RFID card slots, two front zip pockets, a back pocket and a large middle pocket for lots of storage. It has a trendy puffer bag look with the style and hands-free design of a crossbody.

Anti-theft crossbody bags

Travelon built this bag with RFID-blocking pockets, lockdown shoulder straps and zipper locks to keep all your belongings safe while you’re exploring. In our testing, the bag held a surprising amount while keeping things organized inside. Plus, the bag is great for those shopping on a stricter budget.

Your crossbody bag can serve as your personal item if you’re trying to narrow down what’s going in your suitcase. In our testing, it was incredibly versatile and great for carrying your day-to-day essentials and your in-flight necessities. It has an RFID-blocking pocket, anti-theft zipper clasps and a waterproof design.

This bag is expandable, giving you lots of space for carrying a water bottle, wallet, keys and more. There’s a durable keychain for you to clip things onto as well. It can even hold a small iPad if you’re looking to take that around with you throughout the day or on the plane.

A slimmer option from Travelon, this messenger bag can be worn as a crossbody and comes in a few colors and patterns, so you can find one that fits your style. It’s listed as slash-resistant and includes all the features of the Travelon bag we tested. If you’re wary of pickpockets, this bag should bring some peace of mind.

Clear crossbody bags

Clear bags don’t have to be boring. You can add a pop of color with this $20 bag. It measures 8.7 by 2.9 by 6.1 inches, so it’s a reasonable size for entering stadiums or other buildings where there are bag limitations. While it might seem small, you’ll still be able to fit your phone, keys, wallet and other essentials while you’re on the go.

A more vertical bag, this clear option comes in three different sizes and a range of color options if you want something more fun. The strap is adjustable, and there are a couple of pocket options for different storage and access.

This option is small and thin for just the essentials if you’re looking to travel light. The 1.5-inch width of the bottom doesn’t give you too much wiggle room for stuffing the interior pocket, but for those looking to hold the essentials and stay hands-free, it’s a solid choice. Plus, for less than $15, it’s a bargain.

A clear bag with the look of a designer style, thanks to the the strap and closure details. The crossbody strap is also removable if you’re looking to change to a handbag. The versatility in styling makes it great for travel since you can use it for a variety of events.

Luxury/designer crossbody bags

The main pocket of this bag from Tumi has lots of interior organization, while smaller outer pockets make it easy to grab things quickly. It’s made from a durable nylon material that’s easy to clean too.

If you’re packing extra light, this microbag from Kurt Geiger adds a pop of color to any outfit while giving you storage for your phone, hotel keys and wallet. The metal chain adds subtle detail, and there are a handful of color and material options available.

This mini crossbody has interior organization that allows it to double as a wallet if you want to eliminate the bulk of what you’re carrying in your bag. The minimalist exterior design makes it easy to style as you head out on your tours, and it’s a bag you’ll use both while traveling and at home.

The Romy bag has a casual, unstructured feel to it while still giving you hands-free storage. The bucket-like bag has an adjustable drawstring closure and is a trendy option if you’re looking for a versatile bag.

Crossbody travel purses

Samantha Dawn, a personal stylist and style coach, recommends this mini crossbody for its texture and color. She said the crochet material adds dimension to your outfit and the deep brown hue is great for fall wear. It also comes in a classic black if you’re looking for something to use all year.

Bowler bags add interest to any outfit, and this one from Quince can be worn crossbody or as a handbag, thanks to the removable strap. The elongated shape leaves lots of room for a water bottle or hairbrush for touch-ups throughout the day. The neutral leather tones keep the bag easy to pair with any other accessories you’re wearing too.

“This bag is great for a night out that brings edge and personality into any outfit,” Dawn said. You’ll be able to lay it fairly flat in your suitcase, and the built-in card holders make it easy to carry your essentials. “The pop of red is a great color to make your more simple outfits pop,” she added, but if you want a neutral, the bag is available in three other colors.

Simple, classic and slim enough to pack in your suitcase, this crossbody from Deluxity is an affordable but still stylish option. There are lots of pockets for storage, and when the bag is empty, it will lie flat and be easy to pack. It’s great for carrying a smaller amount while you’re walking around.

Gap’s barrel bag has a sleek and streamlined look to it but maintains visual interest thanks to the unique shape. While it doesn’t offer interior organization, it’ll fit your phone, keys and wallet without a problem. The vegan suede gives it a soft feel, and you can choose from three classic shades.

Dawn likes the deep maroon hue of this bag as an alternative to a classic black option. She said the slouchy bag has a modern feel but can be used for professional, casual and travel days. It’s a bag you can work into your everyday wear as well as your travel lineup.

The faux suede and faux-leather details of this mini crossbody add texture and dimension to your look while keeping everything timeless and classic. It has more of a tote bag shape while sized like a crossbody bag that’s easy to pack and carry.

Customize this bag with your initials for a personalized look, or keep it classic and neutral. The zippered interior and snap-front closure help to keep everything inside safe, and you can choose between a suede or pebbled leather finish. The bag also comes with two straps, so you can use whichever feels more comfortable while you’re out and about.

How to choose the best crossbody bag for travel

Crossbody bags are versatile accessories that are both convenient to wear and easy to work into your everyday wardrobe, so you’re not just buying something you use for a week and don’t pick up again. That said, you’ll want to find a bag that does what you need while you’re on the move.

You’ll want to take into consideration where you’re headed and the activities on your vacation itinerary, as well as how you’re going to pack the bag. If you’re working with a checked bag with some room to spare, you can go for something bigger or toss in a fashionable style for dinners and casual touring. If you’re looking to keep things compact in your carry-on, go for a bag with a thinner design you can lay flat and squish down.

If you’re worried about safety when you’re traveling, especially from pickpockets, an anti-theft bag offers intentional functionality to give you peace of mind. Look for RFID-blocking pockets to help keep your digital information secure or features like locking zippers and anti-slash materials, so even in crowded spaces, you know your belongings are secure.

Finally, you’ll want to consider what you like to carry with you each day. If you like to pick up small souvenirs as you tour a new city or if you like to carry a water bottle with you, you’ll want to find a bag with storage to accommodate these bulkier items. Each brand’s website will list the bag’s dimensions so you know how much you can fit, or you can opt for a bag with added features like The North Face’s crossbody, which has an exterior bungee system that can be used to carry small water bottles.

The best crossbody bags for travel are easy to pack, let you carry your daily essentials and work with your personal style for wearing on your trip and beyond.

The following FAQs have been answered by stylist Samantha Dawn and include reporting by updates writer Ellen McAlpine.

How you wear your crossbody while traveling is up to you, though Dawn has a few tips from a style perspective. “The best way to wear your crossbody during travel is to wear it over your base clothing, but under your jacket for security and ease of your outfit,” she said. “Let your crossbody be more towards the front of your outfit rather than the back so you can keep your eyes on your bag at all times.”

“Stylistically, you can also make your travel bags more fun and personalized to you with adding a neck scarf around the strap,” Dawn said. “You can also add bag charms to add fun elements into your outfit.”

Crossbody bags may give you more peace of mind than a backpack while you’re traveling, depending on your destination and itinerary. While a backpack is on your person but out of view while you’re walking around, you can keep your hand on a crossbody bag for extra security or fasten the strap so it sits on your chest, and is just, in general, easier to keep a close eye on. You’ll sacrifice storage space for some that peace of mind, though.

Your crossbody bag will likely count as your personal item instead of your carry-on bag. Most airlines will allow you one carry-on bag and one personal item while flying. While airlines have their own carry-on size guides, your crossbody bag should fit within the personal item sizing. It’s smart to use your crossbody as a personal item for holding your in-flight essentials while you’re in your seat, but you can also keep it empty ahead of packing and store it in your suitcase or backpack for use upon your arrival.

For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights.

CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, updates writer Ellen McAlpine scoured pages from a range of retailers for crossbody bags that are lightweight, functional and ideal for travel. She also spoke with a stylist to get expert insights regarding crossbody bags that are both fashionable and functional.

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