13 Best Crossbody Bags For Travel

A question that is uppermost in most traveler’s minds is security, how to carry essentials without being the target of pickpockets. While backpacks have always been one of the most convenient travel accessories, more people realize that a crossbody bag is a much better option.
The reason is its easy access and added security. With a crossbody travel bag, you’re handsfree and safe. You can safely whip out your camera and capture that perfect picture while having your belongings securely around you. Another great thing is that a crossbody travel bag is not bulky but stylish too.
Today you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to buying a designer crossbody bag because there are so many of them in the market. Which one to settle for and how to choose the right one is probably the uppermost question. To make things simpler for you we’ve picked what we think are 13 Best Crossbody Bags For Travel.
However, before perusing our list there are a few things that you need to keep in mind when choosing a bag. Our tips below will help you do just that.

How To Choose The Right Crossbody Bag

There’s no right or wrong answer to this one as most things we buy are related to personal choice. However, there are some practicalities that are universal no matter what your choice. So some things to look out for before picking out the ‘cutest’ looking bag are :

Don’t Compromise on Material

No matter which part of the world you’re traveling in you’ll want the have the most durable bag. You don’t want something that begins to fray, or shoulder straps and zippers that break. Don’t compromise on quality as this is where you’re going to be keeping some of your most important stuff. A bag made from water-resistant material is also a must to keep your gadgets safe.

Light is Right

When you’re going to be filling your bag with quite a few things you want to make sure that the bag itself doesn’t weigh a ton. Choose something that is lightweight and easy to carry. Also, choose a size that fits your travel needs.

Security

If you’re traveling to a congested city or a place renowned for pickpockets then you’ll probably need some additional security. There are plenty of stylish anti-theft crossbody bags to choose from. These bags have slash-resistant bodies and straps, lockdown hardware and locking compartments. They also have RFID blocking compartments to prevent identity theft. However, if you’re settling for a regular crossbody bag make sure that it has good zip closures.

Comfort

This is another area that you should not compromise on no matter how good looking the bag is. At the end of the day, you don’t want to mire your trip with sore shoulders. Padded straps are great but if they’re not available to make sure your strap adjusts well. Make sure your bag also has a side pocket for your water bottle.

Now that you have a fair idea of what you’re looking for in a crossbody bag, check out our list below.

Travelon Luggage Anti Theft Cross Body Bag

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There’s no denying that this is one of the best crossbody travel bags in the market with its special anti-theft features. Travelon is probably one of the most dependable when it comes to security. When you’re traveling you want the freedom to carry your essentials without worrying about security. This crossbody bag helps you to do just that.
The locking compartments are one of the best things about this bag. Pickpockets are going to have a hard time getting into this one, as we’ve personally experienced. Another great feature is the stainless steel mesh. Camouflaged under the outer fabric, between the lining, the stainless steel protects the bag from slash and grab thieves.
The Travelon has one more hidden surprise in the strap. The straps too are fitted with stainless steel cables which cannot be cut. You can even lock down your bag onto the back of a chair with no fear of someone snatching it.
Added to this are the RFID blocking slots which help keep passports and cards safe from identity thieves. This is definitely a personal favorite as the stylish crossbody bag also sits snugly against the body.

What We Love About It

• The bag is available in 16 different colors so we were really spoiled for choice.
• An easily adjustable strap that makes the bag look trendy.
• The LED light which you can clip your keys onto.

Pros

• Slash-resistant body and straps
• Can be locked down to the back of a chair or post
• RFID Blocking Slots and Pockets
• Removable LED Light

Cons

• Although it is fairly roomy don’t expect to be able to carry too much bulk.
• The magnetic buttons on the front are not as sturdy as they seem.

Price & Info HERE

 

 

Travelon Unisex Anti Theft Heritage Crossbody Tour Bag

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This versatile unisex crossbody travel bag looks good on both men and women. It may be a little compact if you’re looking to carry any extras in your handbag. However, it works well if you only want to fill it with smaller stuff. The padded compartment is big enough to hold an iPad or tablet. For added security, it is fitted with a zippered RFID blocking pocket.

The unisex crossbody bag also has two mesh expansion pockets for a water bottle, sunglasses or an umbrella. It also features an LED light with a tethered key clip, great for keeping your keys safe. Like most Travelon crossbody bags, this one is also slash-resistant with locking straps.

We like that the bag is made from durable cotton canvas with rich suede trim. It makes the bag look high-end yet stylishly casual.

What We Love About It

The two expansion pockets which are handy for an umbrella or water bottle.
Lots of compartments with easily maneuverable zipper locks.
The rear zippered pocket which is fantastic for carrying a passport or any small high-value item.

Pros

• Padded roomy compartment with zippered RFID blocking pocket
• The material is durable and trendy.
• Tethered clip with LED light.
• Sturdy and comfortable strap.
• Available in four colors

Cons

• You cannot put too much into the front pockets as they tend to minimize the space of the main pocket.

Price & Info HERE

 

Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe CS100 Anti-Theft Travel Handbag

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If you’re looking for a classic everyday crossbody bag then we recommend the Pacsafe Citysafe Cs 100. This women’s bag which is available in three colors ranks high on security. We were quite impressed with the subtlety of its anti-theft features. The eXomesh slash guards that are camouflaged within the body, carry-safe straps, and the turn and lock security hooks. Added to this is the RFID blocking pocket to keep your personal data safe.
With plenty of room to store your essentials, this bag is the perfect crossbody bag for travel. Another great feature that we liked is the classic silhouette design that gives it that stylish edge. The bag is practical without looking bulky or ordinary.

What We Love About It

• The classic silhouette design makes this a more stylish bag to carry around.
• We felt that the black bag was a lot roomier than the mulberry one.

Pros

• Padded CarrySafe shoulder strap embedded with stainless steel wire
• Roomy compartment with a protective sleeve
• RFID protected pocket
• Smart Zipper with a security hook
• eXomesh Slashguard to prevent slash and steal
• Durable water repellent fabric

Cons

• The zippers can be a little complicated to handle.
• Limited choice of colors.
• A little heavy at 14.1 oz.

Price & Infor HERE

 

Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bagg

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This probably won’t sit well with those who prefer to carry smaller travel bags. However, for someone in a habit of cramming their handbags, this is probably the best crossbody travel bag for you. The great thing about this bag is that despite its bigger size it is still pretty lightweight. We found that cleaning the durable water-resistant material is a breeze too. You can wipe off stains pretty easily.
The purse is stylish and functional with well-organized pockets with ideal depth. You don’t have to fish around too much inside to find something. There’s also a lipstick compartment to keep this essential from ‘coloring’ the bag by mistake.

The Baggallini comes with two side pockets but they’re not ideal for carrying big water bottles. You could probably squeeze in a narrow water bottle into the open pocket. The other side pocket is great for carrying sunglasses as it has a zipper and elastic pouch.

Although this bag is bigger in size it’s not big on security like the other bags. The only safety feature on this one is the RFID on the removable coin purse. However, another thing that this crossbody bag is big on is the range of colors. With over 20 colors to choose from, you’re spoiled for choice with this one too.

What We Love About It

• The wide array of thoughtfully designed compartments which helps in organizing little things.
• We thought the removable purse in the same color was a cute addition to the bag.

Pros

• Despite its bigger size, it’s not heavy or bulky
• RFID protected lining
• Durable water-resistant material
• Sleeve for luggage handle
• Exterior pockets are ideal for storing your phone

Cons

• More highly-priced than most crossbody travel bags

Price & Info HERE

 

Vera Bradley Women’s Signature Cotton Hipster Crossbody Purse

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If you’re looking at something which looks rich but doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket then this one is for you. We’re probably a little biased towards bright-colored things, and that’s probably why the Vera Bradley scored big with us. We think these brightly colored bags with versatile designs and customized patterns are one of the best luxury crossbody bags for travel.
They probably won’t score big with older women, but younger women and girls will definitely love these bags. The crossbody strap is adjustable so that the bag can be worn crossbody or slung over the shoulder. Another great thing about this bag is the storage space. Three interior and exterior pockets make it really handy for carrying a number of things. You’ll be surprised by just how much you can fit into this luxurious crossbody bag. The icing on the cake with this one is that it is machine washable and durable too.

What We Love About It

• The wide range of colors and patterns that add a bit of zing to any outfit.
• Spacious and stylish to put an extra dash of color on that trip.
• Not too heavily priced

Pros

• Extremely light with a sleek finish.
• Great storage space.
• Available in over 30 different colors and patterns
• Durable and machine washable

Cons

• The strap could have been better designed. The metal adjuster tends to dig into the skin if worn at certain angles.
• No anti-theft features

Price & Info HERE

 

Roma Leathers Genuine Leather Multi-Pocket Crossbody Purse Bag

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This crossbody bag doesn’t score big on design but is a great choice for those who prefer genuine material to synthetic. The reason why we picked this bag is because of its durability and low price range. Since it’s made from cowhide leather you can be sure that it will last through your travels. Even if it does not last for years, you won’t be too disappointed at the price you paid.
For a bag of this size (9 x 6.5 x 1 inches) you can surprisingly fit quite a lot into it. This is because of the many zippered pockets that there are on the outside. The back pocket, however, is not zippered which makes its ideal for carrying your phone. The adjustable strap also allows you to play around with the style. You can carry it over your shoulder or across your body.
We think that is one of the best budget crossbody bags because although it does not have any anti-theft features it’s secure enough to keep everything safe.

What We Love About It

• Although it’s small there’s a lot that can fit into it.
• We liked the fact that it’s made from genuine leather which is designed to last.

Pros

• Available in 5 different colors
• Made from genuine leather
• Affordable Price
• Rear open pocket makes it handy for a boarding pass or phone

Cons

• The strap connection is a little weak.

Price & Info HERE

Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC Convertible Crossbody Handbag

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We’re probably pushing up the budget with this bag when compared to our previous pick but there’s a reason for it. Not everyone who travels is on a shoestring budget, and even budget travelers enjoy a bit of sophistication now and then. Don’t worry about the chain strap looking too ‘blingy.’ In fact, we think it’s quite a stylish addition as the gold hardware gives it that extra oomph. We also love the hanging tassels.
This designer crossbody bag is the right size to fit your essentials like your wallet and phone. The convertible option allows you to change the style according to your look. If you’re going with the sporty look then the crossbody option would look much better. However, if you’re wearing a dress you’d probably want the more classic look. What makes this one of the best designer crossbody bags for travel is the wide range of colors to choose from.

What We Love About It

• It’s sleek, stylish and expensive!
• The phrase ‘traveling in style’ sits perfectly on this one.

Pros

• Stylish and durable
• The main pocket is quite roomy and holds quite a lot
• The front pocket with a zipper keeps small items secure

Cons

• It’s a tad expensive so probably not your everyday purse.
• The chain makes the bag slightly heavy.

Price & Info HERE

 

Travelon Unisex Anti-Theft Active Tour 

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This bag is great for those who love their backpacks. Another great anti-theft crossbody bag from Travelon, the Active Tour is great for both men and women. It’s also durable enough for various conditions such as the outdoors or a long commute. We liked the functionality and comfort of this bag. The durable waterproof fabric also has a reflective print and cleans up pretty well.

The anti-theft features are an added bonus especially when traveling in congested cities. The locking zippers on two of the larger pockets, slash-resistant body, and the tamper-proof strap makes travel stress free. Like all travel bags from Travelon, this one too comes with RFID blocking pockets.

We also loved the space, with plenty of pockets to keep things organized. You can fit your passport, driver’s license, and other smaller things into their own compartments. The crossbody travel bag comes with a water bottle holder, unlike most other bags. You can fit a liter bottle into the outside pocket quite easily.

What We Love About It

• The space with plenty of pockets for organizing things.
• It can be worn two ways – crossbody or as a backpack.

Pros

• Anti-theft features add to the security.
• Available in four different colors
• Tethered key clip and LED light
• Reflective printing for safety day and night
• Lightweight durable material
• Water bottle compartment

Cons

• The bag tends to tip if filled with too many things.
• The listed size is much smaller than the actual size of the bag
• Limited Color Range

Price & Infor HERE

 

Alyssa Triple Zip Pocket Large Crossbody Bag

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This bag is a bestseller on Amazon and why wouldn’t it be with the wide range of colors to choose from. With over 35 colors, the Alyssa Triple Zip is a clear winner. However, that’s not the only thing that puts this bag right at the top of our list of best crossbody travel bags. It’s slightly larger than the regular crossbody bags because of its vertical design, which means that there is more room for storage. This does not take away from its overall look though.
There are 3 zipper compartments in front, one at the back and two inside pockets. The faux leather material is also soft and feels great against the body.  What impressed us most about this bag is that it fits quite well on a bigger person too. This is because the strap adjusts a long way.

What We Love About It

• The outer material has a good aesthetic appeal
• The mind-boggling range of colors.
• Easily adjustable strap to match various heights

Pros

• Good size for storage
• 4 compartments for better organization
• Durable zippers
• Wide range of colors

Cons

• Heavier than most bags
• The depth of the pockets can sometimes be annoying when fishing around for something

Price & Info HERE

 

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS250 12 Liter Anti Theft Shoulder Bag

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This is another of those bags that will score big with backpack lovers. Although not as large as a backpack, this crossbody bag can accommodate an 11′ laptop with no problems. We recommend this crossbody bag for international travel especially Europe. Since most places in Europe now ask for backpacks to be checked, you could probably slip under the radar with this one.
What we especially liked about this crossbody bag is the design and functionality. With its classic design, this stylish crossbody travel bag looks good on both men and women. Its two compartments and zip pocket at the back provide ample storage space. Two pockets on the outside are great for carrying your water bottle and umbrella. A padded sleeve in the main pocket is great for keeping your devices safe. What we also liked is that the Carrysafe strap can be adjusted to suit a wide range of heights.
You can also be sure that no one is going to make off with your bag with the anti-theft features. The eXomesh lining, smart zipper security and RFID blocking pocket will ensure a stress-free trip.

What We Love About It

• Despite its generous storage space its surprisingly light.
• The durable waterproof material seems pretty indestructible and designed to last.

Pros

• Great anti-theft features such as anti-slash body and strap, and smart zipper security
• RFID blocking pockets
• Two outside pockets for water bottle and umbrella
• Padded 11″ laptop sleeve
• 5-year warranty

Cons

• RFID pocket is pretty small
• The curved bottom makes the bag tip over

Price & Info HERE

HAIKU Women’s Ascend Travel Crossbody Zippered Shoulder Bag

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Haiku is a great company to go for if you want to support a noble cause. Made from recycled plastic bottles, these bags are not just functional but help the environment too. Each bag saves over 12 beverage bottles from ending up in the landfill, which is pretty impressive.

We were pleasantly surprised by the space this bag has. There are lots of neat pockets on the exterior for better organization and also one on the inside. We also liked the two straps on the bag that can be removed according to your choice of style. You can carry the bag on your shoulder or use the longer strap to adjust it across your body. The base is also great as the bag sits steady when you put it down.

What We Love About It

• It’s a great functional bag that’s made from recycled plastic. Need we say more!

Pros

• Roomy stylish bag
• Has two removable straps which provide styling freedom
• Secure top zip closure
• Exterior and interior pockets

Cons

• Since it’s made from recycled material the outside feels a little scratchy

Price & Info HERE

TUMI – Voyageur Troy Luanda Black Crossbody Flight Bag

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This is one of the most expensive crossbody bags on our list but we just couldn’t help it. With its stylish look and excellent configuration, we think it will add some extra ‘zing’ to your travel. This flight bag is a good buy for those who prefer something small to store their travel essentials.
For its compact size, we were pleasantly surprised by the space. There are several interior and exterior pockets for organization.  The interior slip pocket is great for storing a passport or other flight documents.
What we like about it is the gold hardware which adds to the elegance of the nylon fabric. The thin strap can be a cause for concern, although it does not seem to lack on quality. Some may find it a little too thin.

What We Love About It

• The gold hardware complements the black rather than making it appear too blingy

Pros

• Several Interior and Exterior Pockets
• TUMI Tracer to track if stolen
• Zipper Closure
• Durable and washable fabric
• Practical stylish design

Cons

• Very heavily priced for such a small bag

Price & Info HERE

NeatPack Crossbody Bag for Women

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If you’re looking for a stylish yet practical crossbody bag then this bag from NeatPack is for you. It has great storage space and well thought out pockets for organizing and carrying things around. The adjustable shoulder strap has padding which makes it easier to carry around for longer periods of time. However, the strap can be a little long for a shorter person if they want to sling it over the shoulder.

This bag is not big on anti-theft features like the Travelon or Pacsafe but it does have a few. The double zipper on the main pouch can be locked especially if you’re traveling in a crowded area. It also has an anti-theft RFID Pocket to keep your cards and passport safe.  Another great thing about this bag is the durable nylon fabric that repels moisture and stains.

What We Love About It

• 100% Lifetime Money-Back Guarantee. It shows the brand is quite certain of the good quality of its product.
• All three colors look great

Pros

• Practical with lots of space
• Comfortable padded shoulder strap
• Durable nylon material
• RFID blocking pocket
• Side Pocket for water bottle

Cons

• The zippers are not very durable

Price & Info HERE

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is a crossbody bag?

Just as the name suggests these bags are worn across the body with the strap looped over the opposite shoulder. They generally hang to one side of the body just on the hips but can be adjusted for style. All crossbody bags usually come with a long adjustable strap for the user to wear the bag according to their comfort.

Why are crossbody bags so popular for travel?

Although these bags are not as big as backpacks, travelers have discovered their convenience. Since they hang in front of the body it’s easy to access all your valuables without having to take the bag off every time. The bag which goes over your head cannot be pulled off easily by bag snatchers. Another great thing is that you are practically hands-free with these bags.

Is it necessary to get an anti-theft crossbody bag?

This is purely a personal choice but if you are going to be traveling in a congested area or a city infamous for pickpockets it’s best to get one. However, even if none of the anti-theft bags catch your attention there’s no need to panic. All crossbody bags make it pretty difficult for thieves to get at your stuff. Just make sure that you have proper zippers even if you don’t get an anti-theft crossbody bag.

What are the features that make the best anti-theft crossbody bag?

If you decide to buy an anti-theft bag there are a few standout features to look for, and no, it’s not an internal pocket. There are five features that make a complete anti-theft bag.

• Slash resistant body
• Slash resistant straps
• Locking compartments
• Lockdown hardware
• RFID blocking pockets to prevent identity theft.

Which is the best crossbody travel bag to buy?

Again this is purely a personal choice depending on the style and budget that you have. A good crossbody bag should be durable, functional, comfortable and safe. If the bag you’re eyeing ticks these boxes, then it’s the best one for you.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right accessories or luggage while traveling can be quite a daunting task. However, whatever you choose to buy, make sure that it addresses all your travel needs. Since a crossbody bag is much smaller than your regular bag, look for something that will not only look good but be practical too. When you list down your needs, zeroing on the right bag becomes so much easier.