You’re all set to go on that long-awaited trip, complete with an excellent set of luggage and even a cute, matching daypack. However, no one wants to lug around the daypack around all the time. So, how about packing a stylish satchel or purse for evening jaunts? An excellent travel purse is not only stylish, but also spacious, functional, and an anti-theft one. With hundreds of options to select from, choosing the best purse for travel could be something of a challenge.
There are many personal preferences when it comes to carrying a purse. They also come in a range of sizes and types, right from totes and satchels to cross-bodies and slings. What’s more, it needs to fit into your luggage easily, match your travel wardrobe, and not end up getting dirty.
No matter what you choose, the purse you finally end up carrying needs to be usable for the destination you’re going to. So, here are the 13 best purses for travel that make an excellent and useful accessory on your next holiday.
Are you headed to a beach destination? Check out our top picks for the best beach bags instead.
Choosing Travel Purses
Security
Travel purses, in the end, need to be safe. Today, products incorporating RFID-blocking technology are very popular. RFID stands for ‘Radio Frequency Identification’ and ensures that scammers don’t swipe your debit/credit card details from a distance. There are even RFID sleeves available on the market today, in case the bag itself doesn’t have RFID blocking technology.
Another feature of the best travel purses is slash-proofing. Slash-proof bags employ polyethylene or lightweight stainless steel meshes in the bag and the straps to make them robust and difficult to cut into. Some brands go the extra mile and make travel bags from kevlar.
Style
The main kinds of travel purses are messenger bags, shoulder bags, and crossbody bags. Shoulder bags can be hung on the and are something of a staple, but can be yanked off with ease. Crossbody and messenger bags are more secure than shoulder bags. Crossbody and messenger bags both go across the body, but messenger bags tend to have an extra flap on top. Another style is a tote bag, although its larger than the others.
The best purses for travel are also versatile. For instance, adjustable straps can make the purse transform from a shoulder to a crossbody or vice versa. Neutral-colored bags with clean and simple designs not only go excellently with all outfits but are also durable at the same time.
Organization
Even though its a travel purse, it needs to be spacious enough to carry your wallet and your passport at the very least. Plus, if you unexpectedly shop for something that fits into the bag, it’s a great plus as you don’t have to carry it separately. The presence of both internal and external compartments is necessary for organized travel. If every essential has a designated space, it becomes easier to access them. So, one needs to think about how they are going to be using their purses. Those who aren’t comfortable with external pockets an opt for a tote-style bag instead.
Baggallini Everywhere Lightweight Crossbody Bag
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One of the best purses for travel is the Everywhere Lightweight Crossbody Bag from Baggallini. The bag is available in a whopping 13 colors, ranging from darker shades like navy and maroon to lighter hues like beige and pewter.
The water-resistant, ultra-lightweight bag is functional sans sacrificing style. Made from nylon, the well-designed bag boasts of thoughtfully-designed pockets and sections, all with zippers. A large and small zippered and a small magnetic flap pocket outside are extremely handy for stashing smaller items, receipts, mints, and snacks while on the go. The organized storage includes two pen loops, key leash, and eight credit card slots as well. Some of its compartments feature the RFID-blocking technology, so you can keep your wallet and personal ID essentials in those pockets. It even has a handy, removable RFID-blocking wristlet, which is excellent for times when you’ve to head to the bathroom and leave the bag in the car.
While the exterior feels a bit rough, the stylish design, construction, and durability more than make up for it. If that wasn’t enough, the bag even comes in two sizes and is extremely popular with female travelers too.
Dimensions
Small: 11 x 9 x 5 inches.
Large: 13.5 x 9 x 5 inches.
Pros
- Water-resistant.
- Extremely comfy, spacious, stylish, and organized.
- Comfortable shoulder strap.
Cons
- Outer pockets might not be able to fit larger smartphones.
- Brighter colors like Hibiscus and Directoire Blue might accumulate dust a little easier. Travelers will do well to choose darker colors like Black, Charcoal, etc.
Travelon Anti-theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
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It is indeed true that good things come in small packages, like the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag. One of the best small bag options out there, this travel bag is ideal for minimalists and excellent for keeping thefts at bay.
The nifty bag lives up to its name and possesses all the advantages of its larger anti-theft peers, while also checking all requisite boxes for safety. The front pouch and main compartment feature security zippers which are attached to D-rings, for one, so they can’t be unzipped easily. What’s more, the bag is made of thick, slash-resistant material with a stainless steel mesh that lends it extra durability and robustness. There’s also a key strap with a removable flashlight which is great for not having to fumble while searching through the bag. Moreover, the 56-inch slash-proof, adjustable strap allows the bag to be worn crossbody for additional security. The cherry on top is the RFID-blocking slip pocket perfect for holding credit cards, IDs, and your passport.
The purse does excellent on storage too, especially if you’re a light traveler. Apart from the main compartment, the bag has easy-access front and rear exterior pockets. They are excellent for stashing souvenirs, ticket stubs, and other small paraphernalia. Last but not the least, it is offered in 22 different colors, ranging from Black and Navy to Stone-colored and Striped ones.
Dimensions
At 8.5 x 8.5 x 2 inches, the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag is almost the size of an iPad Mini.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Secure and safe with RFID-blocking, slash-proof fabric, and security zippers.
- Tons of pockets.
- Adjustable shoulder strap.
Cons
- The small capacity might be a deterrent to some.
Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Tote
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For the fashion-focused public, the stylish yet functional Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Tote is ideal. The travel bag is not only equipped with security tech but is designed from long-lasting polyester and is chock-full of features.
As far as travel purses go, the Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Tote is the best in terms of security. The slash-proof bag boasts of a flexible steel wire mesh and a wire-reinforced strap that acts as a barrier against scammers. Dual shoulder straps feature Carrysafe technology. The bag is also outfitted with RFID-blocking, has a hidden pocket, dual slip pockets, as well as a lockable zip pocket.
Overall, the travel bag is quite lightweight at just less than two pounds. It even has a detachable crossbody strap for wearing the bag differently and removable shoulder padding for comfort. Pouches in the interiors and a zippered exterior compartment are great for staying organized. Plus, the tote bag is available in three universal shades – Black, Navy, and Green.
Dimensions
The bag measures 14 x 5 x 13 inches.
Pros
- Roomy, organized compartments
- Multiple pockets
- Slashproof shoulder straps and material
- Water-resistant
- Padded compartments
Cons
- Pricey
- Too bulky to double as a day bag
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
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The versatile Anti-Theft Messenger Bag from Travelon comes in a whole lot of colors ranging from wine to stone grey. This affordable yet stylish bag is one of the best purses for travel that is loaded with anti-theft security features.
Made from 900 Denier Polyester, the travel bag boasts an adjustable slash-proof construction and a cable-reinforced, cut-proof shoulder strap. Thus, it conveniently works as both a shoulder bag as well as a cross-body one. Perhaps the best feature of the bag is its number of compartments, which also include RFID-blocking card slots. There are also two compartments for a travel-sized umbrella, water bottle, Kindle, snacks, and more. Plus, all its compartments are lockable, including the exterior one. A removable, handy LED flashlight is great for not having to rummage for stuff in the dark.
The budget-conscious is definitely going to get a lot of bang for their buck with this classic, yet simple bag, all for the price of $38.
Dimensions
The Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag measures 11 x 10 x 4.5 inches.
Pros
- Strong zippers.
- Compact with excellent and lockable storage compartments.
Cons
- Might be a little small for men.
Lululemon All Night Festival Bag
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Fans of the activewear brand Lululemon will love the versatility and sleekness of the All-Night Festival Bag. This compact, mid-sized travel bag has been designed keeping the modern traveler in mind.
The Lululemon All-Night Festival Bag beautifully blends the lightweight qualities of a fanny pack and the spaciousness of a tote bag. Made from water-repellent fabric, the bag is perfect for everyday use and evening strolls to even pool and beachside use. The bag does extremely well on organized storage as it has differed zippered compartments specifically designated for important items, as well as slots for cameras and phones. What’s more, the bag boasts a secure front exterior pocket for quick-access stuff, as well as an interior, long-zippered pocket with a wide opening excellent for packing. The comfy, removable strap allows the bag to be used as both a shoulder and cross-body bag.
Fans of British colors and offbeat prints will particularly love Lululemon’s color choices for this bag. Prints range from heavily-textured floral accents to camouflage, with hues ranging from salmon to chambray.
Dimensions
The dimensions of this bag are 9 x 8 x 5 inches.
Pros
- Water-resistant.
- Lighter fabric.
- New, stylish pocket designs.
Cons
- Strap is a little on the thinner side.
Notag Waterproof Crossbody Bag
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The Notag Waterproof Crossbody Bag lets its reviews speak for itself, with nearly 950 customers having given it a five-star rating on Amazon. The travel purse is an excellent choice for those looking for an easy-to-carry, lightweight bag that is roomy enough to store essentials.
Designed using excellent waterproof nylon, the travel bag has numerous zippered compartments to easily fit everything from passport to keys and wallet. A handy side pouch is a nifty addition and ideal for storing water bottles. Lots of exterior zippered pockets make grabbing important and quick-access stuff very easy. Moreover, the classic zipper is easy to open and close sans any hassles. If that wasn’t enough, the straps are comfortable and adjustable for the bag to be worn as a hand bag, a shoulder bag, and a crossbody bag. All this makes the bag a pretty versatile and affordable travel bag to begin with, especially if one wants to stay safe.
Apart from the bag being insanely lightweight, it is also available in a myriad of four colors – Pink, Purple, Navy, and the classic Black. To top it all, it comes in two sizes, so travelers can choose bags according to their travel habits.
Dimensions
Small: 10.2 x 3.5 x 8.6 inches
Large: 12.2 x 4.3 x 9.4 inches
Pros
- Extremely affordable at $20.
- Very lightweight.
- A good number of pockets.
Cons
- Not quite up there with other hi-tech travel purses.
Lewis N. Clark Anti-theft Crossbody Purse
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Organization fanatics will love the Lewis N. Clark Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse, which has tons and tons of pockets within for all your organizational needs. This is an excellent bag for those who hate the idea of having to throw in all their stuff in one big compartment. It’s also perfect for all those who like having a dedicated place for each of their belongings.
The versatile, stylish, and crossbody unisex travel bag works excellently in the anti-theft department. It is equipped with RFID-blocking card slots as well as locking zippers, keeping scammers and thieves at bay. Furthermore, the bag’s panels contain magnaloft fabric and stainless steel cable which provides anti-theft and anti-slash security. To top it, the adjustable shoulder strap adds to the security and safety layer, allowing the bag to be worn across the body easily.
A slimline design keeps the bag lightweight, compact, and yet functional to the hilt along with lots of room. An exterior locking slot is perfect for easy-access stuff like your phone. What’s more, the flexible nylon exterior is not only water-resistant but also repels mud/dirt, keeping the bag clean and nice-looking throughout your holiday.
Dimensions
The dimensions of this bag are 11 x 3 x 9.5 inches.
Pros
- Durable and lightweight.
- Unisex.
Cons
- Lack of back pockets.
TUMI Voyageur Canton Crossbody Bag
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One of the priciest but excellent options on this list is the Tumi Voyageur Canton, one of the best travel purses overall. The travel bag is the best example of practicality and functionality meeting luxury and style.
One of the standout qualities of the Tumi Voyageur Canton is its high quality. It is designed from high-quality, durable nylon, this crossbody bag features a back pocket with a magnetic snap and a front one with a locking zipper pull for quick-access items. On the inside, there’s a pocket for pretty much everything, right from lipsticks to Kindles or smaller iPads. The insides are not only lined but also feature a detachable key ring as well as a secret security feature, the Tumi Tracer. It makes it a cakewalk to locate your bag in case it gets stolen or lost. How neat is that?
The detachable and adjustable straps make the bag not only comfy to be worn on a single shoulder but make it easier for it to be worn as a crossbody to keep it close. Overall, the Tumi Voyageur Canton is one of the better-built purses out there overall, and not only for travel. While the price might seem a little high, you’ll see that the quality is definitely worth the price.
Dimensions
The dimensions of this bag are 13.7 x 12.8 x 4 inches.
Pros
- Excellent, durable quality of build.
- Interior lining.
- The presence of the Tumi tracer.
Cons
- None.
Pincnel Travel Purse Backpack
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Is it possible to have a sling bag that doubles up as a backpack? With the Pincnel Travel Purse Backpack, you have one now. The versatile travel bag can be worn as both a backpack or a shoulder bag, thanks to its nifty, adjustable strap.
The roomy backpack-purse, as it can be called, is made from nylon and leather and boasts an exemplary construction quality and finish. It features as many as three interior pockets and four exterior ones, apart from the main compartment. The exterior zippered pockets are ideal for storing quick-access stuff like keys, smartphones, maps, etc. What’s more, you can even easily place a 10-inch laptop or an iPad Pro in the larger version. What makes the bag so comfy to carry are the two adjustable shoulder straps. Combine that with the secondary detachable carry strap, and your bag becomes a shoulder bag easily.
If that wasn’t enough, this bag is waterproof as well. With the bag being not too big and neither too small, it makes for the ideal travel companion for your holiday.
Dimensions
Small: 13 x 5.9 x 13.2 inches.
Large: 13.7 x 6.7 x 14. 1 inches.
Pros
- Waterproof with excellent quality materials.
- Versatile.
- Lots of pockets for organization.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer any impact resistance.
eBags Piazza Daybag 2.0
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Those looking for an anti-theft bag with lots of storage will do well to choose the Piazza Daybag 2.0 from eBags.
The travel bag boasts a lot of space within and is very well laid out indeed. It has three exterior zippered pockets as well as two side pockets ideal for keeping sunglasses or water bottles. The best part is that the entire bag is lined with RFID-blocking protective material, keeping your stuff safe from thieves and scammers. What’s more, some of the compartments are hidden beneath a flap, making them all the more secure.
Apart from its anti-theft features, the bag also boasts of well-designed, self-repairing YKK RC coil zippers which supposedly do not break. The adjustable straps make it easy for the bag to be worn across the body. Moreover, the bag is made of soft nylon material that not only feels amazing but doesn’t rip or snag easily either. The fact that it is available in four colors seals the deal.
Dimensions
The eBags Piazza Daybag 2.0 measures 3.5 x 12 x 9 inches.
Pros
- Excellent RFID protection.
- Lots of organized space.
Cons
- The size might seem a little too big to some users.
Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag
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Pacsafe Metrosafe is particularly known for its excellent range of anti-theft travel gear, so much so that thieves have come to hate them. For those looking for quelling their nervousness about carrying important stuff, the Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag is perfect.
While it isn’t the largest bag on the list, it is certainly one of the most versatile. The Pacsafe Metrosafe focuses on function rather than fashion and has as many as four different anti-theft features. Firstly, there are the RFID-blocking compartments where one can keep everything from passports to wallets. Second, there’s the stainless steel mesh fabric, the eXomesh slashguard, which keeps the bag absolutely slash-proof. Third, compartments can be locked together, thanks to the Roobar anti-theft anchor lock. Last but not the least, the zippered compartments themselves are lockable due to the smart, overlapping zippers. What more could one want?
Dimensions
The Pacsafe Metrosafe measures 18.9 x 24 x 9 inches.
Pros
- Organized compartments.
- Extremely safe and anti-theft.
Cons
- Not waterproof.
NeatPack Crossbody Bag
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The versatile and practical Neatpack Crossbody Bag is ideal for not only travel but also for everyday use.
The durable and lightweight bag is made of water-resistant nylon and even features a nylon lining. This makes the bag easily washable too. A padded, adjustable shoulder strap makes this crossbody bag easy to be worn on the shoulder for hours sans any discomfort. The back wall of the bag is also lightly padded, making it great to stash a Kindle, or an iPad, or a tablet in the back Velcro pocket.
A durable set of zippers, which don’t catch, protect five exterior pockets and three interior ones. One of the interior pockets is an RFID-blocking pocket which will keep you safe from identity theft and unwanted scanning of cards. A roomy main compartment completes the Neatpack Crossbody Bag.
Dimensions
The dimensions of this bag are 12 x 11.5 x 4 inches.
Pros
- RFID-blocking pocket.
- Spacious and durable.
- Padded, adjustable shoulder straps.
- Good quality zipper pulls.
- Slightly padded back panel.
Cons
- Side pocket is a bit narrow.
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
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One of the best travel purses on this list, the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote has a cult following, including the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton. The bag is collapsible, durable, and a worthy bonus day bag for your travel excursions.
One of the highlights of the Le Pliage tote is that it can be folded down to the size of a large envelope in about three easy steps. This means that it can be easily stuffed into your travel backpack or suitcase and be taken about everywhere. Designed from polyamide canvas, the tote bag features leather handles and is durable to boot. The material is not only mildew and mold resistant but is also easily washable and doesn’t leave a lingering odor. What’s more, it comes in two sizes and in a multitude of colors ranging from Classic Black to Vivid Pink.
While the presence of a single, large compartment might be a deterrent to some, that’s a given in almost all tote bags. Other than that, the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is absolutely amazing.
Dimensions
Small: 12 x 11 x 7 inches.
Large: 14.25 x 10.25 x 4.75 inches.
Pros
- Versatile.
- Durable.
- Folds up to the size of an envelope.
Cons
- Presence of only one inside pocket.
