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The Ultimate Guide to Sling Bags for Travel in 2024

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Sling bags have surged in popularity, and for good reason, especially for travelers. These crossbody bags offer a sweet spot: more capacity than a typical purse yet compact and secure. Their design allows you to easily swing them to your front, keeping your belongings safe and accessible, making them an ideal Sling Bag For Travel.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect travel companion for flights, hikes, city explorations, or everyday errands, finding the right sling bag for travel is crucial. We’ve rigorously tested numerous sling bags from reputable brands to identify the best options for various travel needs. From durable, weatherproof bags for outdoor adventures to stylish leather slings for urban chic, our selection highlights top-tier bags known for their functional designs and high-quality, long-lasting materials, ensuring they can withstand any journey.

Our Top Picks for the Best Sling Bag for Travel

Best Sling Bags for Travel: Detailed Reviews

Best Overall Sling Bag for Travel

The North Face Borealis Sling

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PHOTO: REI

Why We Love It: Comfortable for all-day wear and surprisingly spacious for daily essentials.

Things to Consider: Accessing the main compartment might require removing the bag depending on your wearing style.

The North Face Borealis Sling excelled in our tests, consistently earning top scores in capacity, comfort, quality, and overall value. From the moment we put it on, its comfort was evident, even during errands on hot days fully packed. The weight distribution across the torso and shoulders made it feel more like a mini backpack, a significant advantage over standard slings. Adjustable straps ensure a snug, chafe-free fit. Its spacious capacity impressed us; it easily accommodated all our daily essentials. The main pocket is generously sized and features a fleece-lined side pocket, perfect for phones and keys. A front strap pocket provides easy access to smaller items like headphones or lip balm on the go. High-quality materials give us confidence in its long-term durability, making it a reliable sling bag for travel and everyday use.

Key Features: 7.3 x 4.7 x 13 inches | 10.6 ounces | 6-liter capacity | Recycled nylon ripstop, recycled polyester | Water repellent

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-north-face-borealis-sling-bag-merrell-readman-05-8d846b117641400a8acb272a8e6e5a18.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/4TirdqCZdkOCmI8_WfjGOonq87k=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-north-face-borealis-sling-bag-merrell-readman-05-8d846b117641400a8acb272a8e6e5a18.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Merrell Readman
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Merrell Readman
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Merrell Readman
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-north-face-borealis-sling-bag-merrell-readman-12-827f118a83324e6c95e1f3b4e6625529.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/90uJexJnWZVs5PCTf5ETbsykYTU=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-north-face-borealis-sling-bag-merrell-readman-12-827f118a83324e6c95e1f3b4e6625529.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Merrell Readman
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-north-face-borealis-sling-bag-merrell-readman-17-cf945434c092420eaca2c185a9ec3686.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/betlC3m-8xrXvJlH8qSu-P9Sfhg=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-north-face-borealis-sling-bag-merrell-readman-17-cf945434c092420eaca2c185a9ec3686.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Merrell Readman

Best Sling Bag for Travel Days

Béis The Sport Sling

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PHOTO: Béis

Why We Love It: Packed with organizational pockets and compartments, perfect for travel essentials.

Things to Consider: A zipper closure on the front pouch would enhance security.

The Béis The Sport Sling is designed with travel days in mind, offering key features that set it apart as a top sling bag for travel. It’s exceptionally organized for travel essentials like passports, phones, and sanitizers. It boasts numerous compartments, including a front slip pouch and a zippered front pocket with three credit card slots and space for slim items like wallets, passports, or travel documents. The main zippered compartment includes a small pouch and a mesh zippered pocket inside. A hidden zippered compartment on the back adds security for valuables. Senior editor Jasmine Grant highlights, “My favorite feature is the hidden water bottle pocket, which cleverly unzips from the side and collapses away when not needed.”

We found it comfortable for extended wear, with an adjustable strap for a perfect fit. The quality is impressive, promising longevity. While it has a smaller capacity compared to others, its compact size makes it an ideal personal item, keeping essentials within easy reach when navigating airports, making it a superb sling bag for travel.

Key Features: 8.2 x 6.7 x 2.7 inches | 9.6 ounces | 1.16-liter capacity | Nylon, vegan leather, recycled polyester

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-6-832e28d117df4a75ba66291912ace4ed.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/WRMmQv9p8u-Ty2Xmxjm_Vng-Ag4=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-6-832e28d117df4a75ba66291912ace4ed.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Grant
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Grant
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Grant
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-11-64cf6cb67f6442649876c1cbc25f2cf0.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/5QOsX3Doe3OfJ9HvHk3eosPsCCM=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-11-64cf6cb67f6442649876c1cbc25f2cf0.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Grant
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-9-c5f3101237aa4b639e6642aad486fcf0.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/2TPfn8bb4p3BjL5ddazKZuwU-fE=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-9-c5f3101237aa4b639e6642aad486fcf0.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Grant
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-17-d764f1c19328466c82db61a85167011b.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/4-nE4kHqIf1PjWEYXSFMMjJ70RM=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beis-the-sport-sling-jasmine-grant-17-d764f1c19328466c82db61a85167011b.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Grant

Best Large Sling Bag for Travel

Cotopaxi 13L Sling Pack

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PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Love It: Exceptionally spacious, fitting jackets, water bottles, snacks, and tablets with ease.

Things to Consider: Its larger size might be overwhelming for daily use.

Cotopaxi’s 13L Sling Pack is essentially a mini backpack with a crossbody strap, making it an excellent large sling bag for travel. Ideal for long days out, it offers more than double the capacity of our best overall pick. The 13-liter capacity easily accommodates jackets, tablets, water bottles, and snacks, with smaller pockets for keys and phones. Constructed from water-resistant TPU-coated nylon, it’s suitable for various weather conditions. We appreciated the option to wear it on either shoulder and the comfortable padding on the back panel and strap. After six months of hiking and biking, its durability is evident, becoming a staple in our outdoor gear. While potentially too large for some, it’s perfect for those needing a spacious sling bag for travel and adventures.

Key Features: 18 x 10 x 5 inches| 1.1 pounds | 13-liter capacity | Recycled 840D TPU-coated nylon | Weather resistant

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-fanny-packs-sling-bags-test-cotopaxi-13l-pack-amazon-michael-weisbaum-01-5a9351c5a99b4f209bcea75844684dbc.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/wbIi3scKVW6IIPZ-c7-_5SQbLSc=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-fanny-packs-sling-bags-test-cotopaxi-13l-pack-amazon-michael-weisbaum-01-5a9351c5a99b4f209bcea75844684dbc.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

Best Rugged Sling Bag for Travel

Kavu Rope Bag Sling Pack

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PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Love It: Adjustable rope strap molds to the body, offering flexible comfort for active pursuits.

Things to Consider: The rope strap might feel slightly rough against bare skin.

For outdoor adventures like hiking or biking, the Kavu Rope Sling is our top recommendation for a rugged sling bag for travel. Made from water-resistant polyester and available in numerous nature-inspired designs, it’s also an excellent gift for outdoor enthusiasts. Its comfort stood out in testing, thanks to the flexible rope crossbody strap that contours to the body, evenly distributing weight. While the rope can be a bit rough on bare skin, wearing a layer between the strap and skin maximizes comfort. With a 10-liter capacity, this lightweight pack easily holds essentials, including jackets, water bottles, and snacks, with various pockets for organization.

Key Features: 20 x 11 x 5 inches| 12.4 ounces | 10-liter capacity | Polyester | Water resistant

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kathryn Standing
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kathryn Standing
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kathryn Standing

Best Everyday Sling Bag for Travel

The Sak Tess Sling Bag

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PHOTO: The Sak

Why We Love It: Compact for everyday carry and available in diverse styles for various occasions.

Things to Consider: It’s among the pricier options.

For those seeking a stylish alternative to sporty slings, The Sak Tess Sling Bag is a chic choice, resembling a fashionable crossbody. It’s an excellent everyday sling bag for travel. While not overly large, its capacity is ample for daily essentials. Testing editor Jackie Cucco easily fit an iPhone, passport case, wallet, AirPods, sunglasses, sanitizer, keys, mirror, and makeup, with room to spare. It includes a large internal slip pocket and a smaller zippered pocket. Comfortable to wear with an adjustable strap, it suits various body types.

Available in over two dozen styles, including leather, crochet, and eco twill, we tested a luxe black leather version, justifying its price. Its versatility is ideal for travel, transitioning effortlessly from day to night. “I value a versatile travel bag that’s both stylish and functional in a compact size,” notes Cucco.

Key Features: 6 x 2.63 x 11.5 inches | 9.9 ounces | Leather, crocheted recycled polypropylene yarn, or repreve eco twill

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-12-0d7a05a8fc9a4530a8248c70b6a9de69.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/BR5wXUKJb9VgeqvNLpUGPtCxLj8=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-12-0d7a05a8fc9a4530a8248c70b6a9de69.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-4-570d586390e24893b8f9547486948ba9.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/IKGDU0-jPKriTsKIJ12sWzwFXM0=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-4-570d586390e24893b8f9547486948ba9.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-2-01999c0b7cbd4e17a8034ebae55463b4.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/2d0kk7PEucvobsFHM8CyPQYVi3I=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-2-01999c0b7cbd4e17a8034ebae55463b4.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco
  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-15-d813428da7eb4f2cb15e9005247e6b18.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/fx2AmI0jnHCHr4bYoiAxYOluKs8=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-the-sak-tess-sling-bag-jackie-cucco-15-d813428da7eb4f2cb15e9005247e6b18.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Best Value Sling Bag for Travel

Cluci Sling Bag

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PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Love It: Stylish and functional at a fraction of the cost of comparable bags.

Things to Consider: Materials may show wear and tear over time.

Need a value sling bag for travel in a hurry? The faux leather Cluci Sling Bag is available with quick Amazon Prime shipping and complements almost any outfit. Its medium-sized main compartment easily holds a book, wallet, and sunglasses, with smaller interior pockets for lip balm and keys. The vegan leather feels soft, and the nylon woven strap is comfortable. While it showed some wear after six months, its excellent value for the price and style is undeniable.

Key Features: 15.5 x 6.9 x 2.8 inches| 12 ounces | Vegan leather | Water resistant

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best Padded Sling Bag for Travel

Osprey Daylite Sling Backpack

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PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Love It: Padded spacer mesh back panel offers exceptional comfort and breathability.

Things to Consider: Crossbody strap is only partially padded.

The Osprey Daylite Sling Backpack impressed us with its superior comfort and breathability, thanks to its padded, mesh-lined back panel, making it a best padded sling bag for travel. Its anatomical design fits comfortably on the back or chest, and its convertible wearability is a plus. With a 6-liter capacity, it holds essentials like phones, keys, and small wallets. The main compartment is accessible, and pockets keep small items organized. Exceptionally lightweight and comfortable, the strap is padded at the shoulder, transitioning to a nylon strap for adjustability. It even survived a coffee spill and machine washing, maintaining its quality.

Key Features: 14.17 x 8.66 x 5.12 inches | 8 ounces | 6-liter capacity | Recycled polyester

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-fanny-packs-sling-bags-test-osprey-daylite-kristen-cleveland-02-3fad80a73c124d6abc9b75f72b819ea6.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/NVMVqrUg2XdAv7-Kllhz8jKfZB0=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-fanny-packs-sling-bags-test-osprey-daylite-kristen-cleveland-02-3fad80a73c124d6abc9b75f72b819ea6.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kristen Cleveland
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kristen Cleveland
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kristen Cleveland

Best Sling Bag for Travel with Water Bottles

Nomatic Navigator Sling

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PHOTO: Nomatic

Why We Love It: Features both internal and external water bottle pockets for hydration on the go.

Things to Consider: Textured fabric can be challenging to clean stains from.

Stay hydrated with the Nomatic Navigator Sling, the best sling bag for travel with water bottles, offering not one, but two dedicated water bottle pockets. Its structured 6-liter design maintains shape even when filled with items like tablets or jackets. The interior includes a water bottle sleeve and zippered pockets, while the exterior has a side slip pocket for quick access to another bottle or phone. Extra features like a removable stabilizing strap, RFID-blocking pocket, and tablet sleeve enhance its value. Durable, water-resistant nylon makes it suitable for daily errands or commutes in any weather.

Key Features: 9 x 4 x 3.5 inches| 1.3 pounds | 6-liter capacity | Nylon | Water resistant

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham

Best Sling Bag for Runners for Travel

Janji Sling Bag

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PHOTO: REI

Why We Love It: Slim and expandable, it stretches to accommodate items like water bottles.

Things to Consider: The extra strap may be confusing for those unfamiliar with running belts.

The Janji Multipass Sling Bag, designed for runners, is also ideal for active travelers, making it the best sling bag for runners for travel. Its sleek, slim shape allows for versatile wear—over the shoulder, crossbody, or around the waist. Despite its slim appearance, it surprisingly holds essentials like wallets, phones, and keys. A bungee cord secures jackets or water bottles. Durable, ultralight, and water-resistant polyester ensures it remains like new even after extended use. Runners will appreciate its slim design and secure crossbody strap for high-activity travel.

Key Features: 6.5 x 6.25 x 4 inches| 5.8 ounces | 2-liter capacity | Polyester, nylon | Water resistant

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best Mini Sling Bag for Travel

Quince Italian Pebbled Leather Sling Bag

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PHOTO: Quince

Why We Love It: Italian leather offers a timeless, elegant aesthetic.

Things to Consider: Strap adjustment can be tricky due to hardware.

For a sling bag that complements stylish outfits, the Quince Italian Leather Sling Bag is the prime choice, making it the best mini sling bag for travel in style. Its soft, pebbled leather feels luxurious and proved scratch-resistant, while the cotton lining adds interior protection. Compact yet spacious enough for phones, wallets, earbuds, and passports, it’s comfortable worn crossbody or around the waist. The nylon belt, though adjustable to various lengths, can be somewhat finicky due to metal hardware. Available in earth tones like olive, beige, and black, it’s a chic travel accessory.

Key Features: 11 x 5.75 x 1.5 inches| 10.9 ounces | Leather, cotton

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Best Organized Sling Bag for Travel

Patagonia Atom Sling Bag

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PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Love It: Ample pockets and dividers for neat organization.

Things to Consider: Asymmetrical design is right-shoulder only.

Patagonia’s Atom Sling Bag excels in organization, making it the best organized sling bag for travel. Its intuitive design offers ideal pocket placement for efficient storage. Various pockets combined with an 8-liter capacity ensure everything has a place without getting lost. The main compartment has a divider for books or tablets, and a spacious front zippered pocket is perfect for quick-grab items. A strap pocket is ideal for phones, keeping hands free. It cleaned easily after sunscreen spills. Note: its asymmetrical design is intended for right-shoulder wear, which might require adjustment for left-shoulder wearers, though it remains comfortable.

Key Features: 13.5 x 9 x 3 inches | 12 ounces | 8-liter capacity | Recycled polyester, nylon | Water resistant

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jill DeForest Colvig
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Most Stylish Sling Bag for Travel

Free People Idle Hands Sling Bag

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PHOTO: Free People

Why We Love It: Exudes a luxurious vintage purse aesthetic and feel.

Things to Consider: Zippers could be smoother.

For prioritizing style, the Free People Idle Hands Sling Bag is unmatched, securing its place as the most stylish sling bag for travel. Tested over a 10-day road trip in both casual and formal settings, its style is versatile. Despite its small appearance, it’s surprisingly spacious, accommodating wallets, headphones, lip balm, water bottles, and e-readers.

Featuring two compartments with internal pockets, it effectively separates items. Comfortable as a crossbody or shoulder bag, even during hikes, its adjustable strap adds to its versatility. The vintage, soft, buttery leather is a highlight, reminiscent of a well-cared-for vintage piece. While zippers weren’t perfectly smooth, this minor issue is easily addressed.

Key Features: 15.7 x 2.2 inches | Leather

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Other Sling Bags for Travel We Liked

These sling bags are still commendable, but minor issues prevented them from reaching our top picks.

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Travel + Leisure

Our Testing Process for Sling Bags for Travel

We rigorously tested 23 sling bags of varying sizes, colors, and designs to identify the best. Over months, we used these sling bags for travel during air travel, errands, and hikes, evaluating functionality, material quality, zipper and buckle durability, ease of access, and comfort during extended wear. Top-rated bags offered adjustable comfort, intuitive pockets, and durable, long-lasting materials.

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Travel + Leisure

Tips for Buying a Sling Bag for Travel

Decide on Necessary Materials

Sling bags are versatile accessories, available in various materials and sizes. Consider your primary use: outdoor enthusiasts may prefer rugged nylon or canvas for weather resistance and durability, suitable for hiking or biking. Everyday travelers might appreciate leather for its style versatility. For stadium events, adhere to guidelines with a stadium-approved clear bag.

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Travel + Leisure

Balance Style and Functionality

While style is important, functionality is key for a sling bag for travel. Comfort is paramount—ensure adjustable straps and ambidextrous design. Look for intuitive pockets and smooth zippers for easy access on the go.

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Travel + Leisure

Frequently Asked Questions about Sling Bags for Travel

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L associate editor Anna Popp, an outdoor enthusiast turned city dweller, leads our product testing. For this guide, Anna tested the North Face Isabella Sling and the Free People Idle Hands Sling and reviewed extensive testing notes to recommend top sling bags for travel, errands, and shopping.

Updated by Anne Taylor, a seasoned updates writer at Travel + Leisure and avid traveler to 23 countries, ensuring our articles are current and practical.

Edited by Jackie Cucco, Travel + Leisure‘s testing editor, who oversees product testing and provides expert reviews based on in-depth analysis.

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