The Best Travel Crossbody Bags are indispensable companions for any traveler, offering a secure and convenient way to carry your everyday essentials without burdening you. After extensive research into numerous options available, we’ve determined the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe as our top choice. It boasts an impressive array of pockets, a water-resistant exterior, and a reliable zip-top closure. For those seeking a more budget-conscious alternative, we highly recommend the Travelon Mini Shoulder Bag, a remarkably affordable option equipped with numerous anti-theft features for added peace of mind.
The ideal crossbody bag for travel should be durable, secure, and spacious enough to accommodate your essential items.
When choosing a crossbody bag, versatility and resilience are key. “Opt for something ultra-versatile crafted from lightweight, water and dirt-resistant materials,” advises Kyle Albrecht, lead stylist at Social Garb. “Also, prioritize a low-profile design that expands only as much as you need it to, based on your packed contents.” We evaluated over 20 crossbody bag options that meet these criteria and cater to various travel styles. We also consulted Astrid Taran, senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted, who has explored over 40 countries, relying on different crossbody bags throughout her journeys. Below, we present our curated list of the best crossbody bags for travel in 2025.
Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall
Lightweight, Well-Organized And Chic
MZ Wallace
MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe
Dimensions: 9.8 × 5.5 × 10.20 inches | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Colors: 25 total, including Matte Silver and Mauve | Materials: Recycled oxford (polyester, nylon), leather
What you’ll love:
- Six interior pockets for exceptional organization
- Durable, water-resistant fabric to withstand travel conditions
- Adjustable crossbody strap for comfortable wear
Keep in mind:
- Higher price point
Whether embarking on a short getaway or an extended two-week European adventure, the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe stands out as a supremely stylish and practical choice. Recognized as the best overall crossbody bag for travel, it also earned the top spot in our broader guide to the best crossbody bags. This bag features an impressive six interior pockets, along with a detachable pouch—ideal for storing cosmetics or toiletries that are prone to leakage. Additionally, two exterior pockets provide easy access to frequently needed items such as your passport or wallet. Other beneficial features include a secure zip-top closure, a detachable crossbody strap, a convenient key ring strap, and padded top handles for versatile carrying options.
Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel
Under $60 With Plenty Of Security Features
MOST POPULAR
Amazon
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Colors: 12 total, including Black and Spruce | Materials: Polyester, nylon
What you’ll love:
- Unbeatable affordable price point
- Slash-resistant strap for enhanced security
- RFID-blocking compartment to protect digital information
Keep in mind:
- Some users find the material to be somewhat stiff
Don’t be deceived by its budget-friendly price; the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag is packed with features that make it an exceptional choice for diverse travel scenarios. Its comprehensive five-point anti-theft security system provides peace of mind while traveling, incorporating slash-resistant fabric, secure zipper pulls, and an RFID-blocking organizer for extra protection against digital theft. The front exterior pocket also features a locking mechanism under a magnetic snap flap, ensuring the safety of your frequently accessed items. Available in a variety of colors to complement any travel wardrobe, this bag boasts a slim, minimalist profile, making it a discreet yet highly functional travel companion.
Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel
Made From Buttery Smooth Top-Grain Italian Leather
Quince
Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Crossbody
Dimensions: 7.8 x 9.5 x 3 inches | Weight: 1.54 pounds | Colors: 3 total, including Mink and Black | Materials: Leather
What you’ll love:
- Exquisite smooth Italian leather material
- Versatile design can also be worn as a wristlet
Keep in mind:
- Limited color selection
- Simple, understated design
The popular crossbody bag from Quince may present a streamlined silhouette, but it offers a remarkable amount of storage capacity and luxurious leather craftsmanship. Featuring three distinct compartments—two zippered and one open compartment in the center—it provides ample space for your daily essentials. The central compartment includes three smaller pockets, perfectly designed for organizing smaller, easy-to-lose items such as keys, AirPods, and lip balm. Reviewers consistently praise this bag for its minimalist aesthetic, adjustable strap lengths, and durable, high-quality leather material. For travelers seeking a touch of elegance and practicality, the Quince leather crossbody is an ideal choice.
Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel
Convertible And Lightweight
Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons Waverley 2
Dimensions: 5.6 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Colors: 23 total, including Deep Navy and Cognac | Materials: Nappa, Saffiano or cactus leather
What you’ll love:
- Four-way convertible design for ultimate versatility
- Available in three distinct types of leather to suit different preferences
- Zippered inner pocket for secure storage
Keep in mind:
- Genuine leather options require regular maintenance
- Not as spacious as some other crossbody options
The Lo & Sons Waverly 2 excels in versatility with its innovative design offering four distinct configurations: crossbody bag, shoulder bag, fanny pack, or wristlet. This adaptability makes it perfect for transitioning seamlessly from daytime explorations to evening outings, reducing the need for multiple bags while traveling. It comes in three leather varieties, each with unique textures: Nappa leather for a smooth feel, Saffiano leather with a subtly textured, weather-resistant finish, and cactus “leather,” a plant-based, eco-conscious alternative. While the main compartment is designed to hold essential items, it might not be as roomy as other options, but customers appreciate its lightweight construction and high-quality craftsmanship.
Best Belt Bag For Travel
Compact With A Water-Resistant Exterior
Lululemon
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag in black, demonstrating its wear as a belt bag and crossbody bag
Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Colors: 7 total, including Passionate (hot pink) and Navy | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester
What you’ll love:
- Water-repellent polyester fabric, ideal for various weather conditions
- Dual wear options: around the waist or across the body
- Adjustable strap for a customized and comfortable fit
Keep in mind:
- Limited one-liter capacity
- More casual style may not suit formal occasions
Perfect for casual travel and busy days when hands-free convenience is paramount, the highly popular Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag can be worn either around your waist or across your body. Constructed from water-repellent recycled polyester, its main compartment features three mesh pockets for organizing everyday essentials like keys, wallets, phone chargers, and lip balm. An exterior zippered pocket offers quick access to items like your passport and phone. However, note its smaller size with a one-liter capacity. For those needing more space, consider the larger size.
Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips
Comfortable And Durable
Amazon
Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L
Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Colors: Black | Materials: Nylon and polyester
What you’ll love:
- Spacious interior capable of fitting a tablet
- External water bottle holder, zips away when not needed
- RFID-blocking pocket for secure card storage
Keep in mind:
- Limited to a single color option (black)
- Sporty design may not be suitable for formal settings
For adventurous travelers embarking on active trips filled with outdoor activities, the Nomatic Navigator Sling is an ideal travel companion. Its roomy interior includes four pockets, featuring an RFID-blocking pocket for cards, and an exterior pocket large enough to accommodate an 11-inch tablet. Additional practical features include a water bottle holder that neatly zips away when not in use, a cord pass-through for on-the-go device charging, and tamper-resistant zippers for added security. For enhanced comfort during active pursuits, it incorporates a molded EVA back panel and a tuck-away stabilizing strap.
Best Crossbody Bag For Men
Rugged Good Looks
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack
Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 3 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Colors: 6 total, including Cotopaxi Black and Chestnut | Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester
What you’ll love:
- Ultra-lightweight design for comfortable all-day carry
- TPU coating for enhanced water resistance and durability
- Versatile wear: around the waist or across the body
Keep in mind:
- Casual design may not be appropriate for formal events
Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, exploring urban landscapes, or simply commuting, the versatile Cotopaxi Coso Hip Pack is engineered to keep you organized and prepared for any destination. Constructed from recycled nylon with a TPU coating, it offers excellent water resistance and can be worn as a crossbody or around the waist as a belt bag. The top zipper opens to a main compartment featuring an interior phone pocket with fleece lining to protect screens from scratches. Multiple grab handles facilitate easy carrying, and adjustable G-hooks on both sides allow you to customize the bag’s capacity based on your needs. While the design leans towards a more casual aesthetic, its vibrant colors and easy-to-maintain material are highly appreciated.
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Why Trust Forbes Vetted
Forbes Vetted stands as a reliable source for product recommendations, backed by rigorous testing, expert opinions, and in-depth research. Our team of experienced writers and editors are committed to providing unbiased and comprehensive reviews, ensuring you make informed purchasing decisions. We delve into product specifications, user reviews, and hands-on testing to evaluate performance, durability, and overall value. Our recommendations are independent and driven by a dedication to quality and consumer satisfaction. When you see the Forbes Vetted seal, you can trust that you are receiving advice you can count on.
How We Chose The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel
- Our recommendations are grounded in expert advice, independent user reviews, thorough market research, and the personal experiences of travel professionals.
- We meticulously assessed key features, including materials, dimensions, weight, and interior organization, to determine the overall value and help readers identify the best option tailored to their specific travel needs.
- The final selection of products featured in this guide reflects extensive research conducted by our dedicated writer and rigorous vetting by the Forbes Vetted editorial team, ensuring only the highest quality and most effective crossbody bags are recommended.
What To Look For In The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel
When searching for the ideal travel crossbody bag, several critical factors deserve careful consideration. Here’s a guide to what to prioritize:
Material
Crossbody bags are crafted from a wide array of materials, ranging from luxurious premium leather to durable canvas and eco-friendly recycled polyester. To pinpoint the best material for your needs, consider your travel style and frequency of use. For frequent travelers, especially those engaging in active trips, materials like recycled nylon or polyester are excellent choices due to their ease of cleaning and resilience. “A lightweight yet robust nylon canvas is an ideal fabric as it’s both resilient and stain-resistant, perfectly suited to handle the rigors of travel,” advises Albrecht. “And in the event of spills, a simple solution of soap and water should effortlessly remove any stains.” Leather offers a sophisticated aesthetic that develops a beautiful patina over time, enhancing its character with age. Textured leathers, such as Saffiano, are particularly durable and scratch-resistant. “Genuine leather consistently outperforms synthetic alternatives in terms of wear and develops a desirable aging quality,” adds Albrecht, highlighting the long-term value of investing in genuine leather.
Size
Selecting the right size and capacity is crucial to ensure your crossbody bag is both functional and comfortable. Aim for a bag that comfortably accommodates your essentials—keys, wallet, phone, and AirPods—without excessive bulk or unused space. If you prefer a compact bag that keeps your hands completely free while traveling, the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is an excellent choice. Conversely, for those needing more carrying capacity for items like a Kindle, water bottle, or a light jacket, the Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L provides ample space and organizational features.
Interior Organization
Maintaining organization while traveling is paramount, so prioritize bags with sufficient interior compartments to keep items separated and easily accessible. The ability to quickly locate essential travel documents like your passport and boarding pass can significantly streamline your travel days. Our top recommendation, the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe, excels in this area, offering six interior pockets and two exterior pockets for superior organization on the go. Many of our other recommended bags also include practical compartments, some even featuring RFID-blocking technology, ensuring you can’t go wrong regardless of your final choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Are The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel?
The best crossbody bags for travel are characterized by their durability, security features, and adequate space to carry your travel essentials comfortably. Every product highlighted in this guide represents an excellent choice, carefully vetted by our experienced travel team at Forbes Vetted. The MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe is our premier pick, celebrated for its water-resistant construction, multiple interior pockets designed for organization, and a secure zip-top closure. We also highly recommend the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag for budget-conscious travelers seeking robust security features, and Quince’s Italian Leather Triple Compartment Crossbody for those desiring a blend of style and functionality.
Can You Take A Crossbody Bag On A Plane?
Yes, you are permitted to bring a crossbody bag on an airplane. It is classified as a personal item and must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you. If you also plan to carry a larger backpack or travel tote, we suggest placing your crossbody bag inside the larger bag during your flight. This way, both bags will collectively count as a single personal item, helping you adhere to airline baggage restrictions.
What Type Of Bags Are Good For International Travel?
When preparing for international travel, the duration of your trip is a primary consideration. The ideal bag for a month-long expedition will likely differ from what you need for a shorter week-long getaway. Generally, prioritize lightweight bags with ample internal compartments to maintain organization throughout your journey. Be mindful that international flights often have specific weight limits, so it’s advisable to check your airline’s baggage requirements before arriving at the airport. While you can often purchase additional baggage allowance in advance, these costs can accumulate quickly. Opting for a lightweight and efficiently organized crossbody bag can help minimize baggage weight and streamline your travel experience.
