20 Best Crossbody Bags for Stress-Free Travel

Jetsetting across the globe is exciting, but also requires wrangling passports, chargers, snacks, and other essentials. A crossbody bag is a traveler’s best friend, allowing you to keep valuables close at hand while keeping your hands free.

When choosing the best crossbody bag for your adventures, you’ll want one designed for both style and security. The perfect travel crossbody should have anti-theft features, quick-access pockets, long-wearing materials, and a sleek silhouette you can take from the plane to the trails.

Why Choose a Crossbody Bag for Travel?

Crossbody bags are a popular choice for travelers because they allow you to keep your hands free while keeping your belongings secure and close to your body. The long strap worn across your chest ensures your valuables like phone, passport, and wallet are more difficult for thieves to snatch. Crossbody bags also easily transition from daytime sightseeing to evening dinners. Their compact size forces you to downsize to only essentials.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crossbody Bag

When picking out the best crossbody bag for your needs, consider factors like size/capacity, security features, construction materials, organization/pockets, strap comfort and length, versatility, and visual aesthetics. Try on the bag and make sure it hangs at a comfortable spot on your hip without being too bulky. Look for features like anti-theft zippers, RFID-blocking, lockable compartments, slash-proof straps, etc.

20 of My Favorite Crossbody Bags

# Pacsafe Citysafe CX Bag

This bag leads the pack when it comes to anti-theft technology. It’s made of steel mesh and cut-proof materials with lockable zippers to protect your valuables. The strap can also be secured to chairs.

# Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

Trust Travelon to design a crossbody bag maximizing safety. This bag features locking compartments, slash-proof construction, and a strap with steel cable inside to prevent slicing.

# Leatherology Morrison Crossbody

For those who prefer leather, the Morrison Crossbody from Leatherology is a chic choice made from premium full-grain leather. It has multiple interior pockets to stay organized.

# Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Nylon Bag

Known for durable and sleek luggage, Tumi’s Voyageur bag is a lightweight nylon crossbody with a slender profile. The adjustable strap and variety of colors are perfect for wherever your travels take you.

# Herschel Supply Co. Hip Pack

A hip pack is a stylish hands-free alternative to a purse. This Herschel pack has modern styling, interior tech sleeve, and breathable air mesh back padding for staying cool and comfy.

# Samsonite Mini Leisure Crossbody Bag

Samsonite is synonymous with innovative luggage, and they bring the same craftsmanship to crossbody bags. This quilted nylon style is water resistant and thoughtfully designed.

# Baggallini Everywhere Bag

Baggallini specializes in fashionable and functional bags with clever features. The lightweight Everywhere Bag converts from crossbody to shoulderbag and has a water bottle pocket.

# Vera Bradley Microfiber Crossbody Bag

This quilted bag from Vera Bradley adds a punch of the brand’s signature patterns. The microfiber fabric is durable and smooth, with a tucked away ID window inside.

# Fjallraven Kanken Mini Classic

Fjallraven’s iconic Kanken backpack now comes in a petite crossbody version. It’s made of the brand’s weather resistant Vinylon F fabric and has an outer storage pocket.

# Madewell Transport Leather Crossbody Bag

Madewell’s Transport Leather Crossbody in supple leather touts a timeless saddlebag silhouette. Interior and exterior pockets keep essentials in place as you hop trains, planes, or tuk tuks abroad.

# Tory Burch Fleming Soft Convertible Shoulder Bag

Luxe label Tory Burch delivers signature style with the Fleming bag. The pebbled leather, removable straps, and double T logo appeal to jetsetters.

# Coach Signature Canvas Crossbody Bag

Coach adds sophistication to any adventure with their logo Signature Canvas bag. The adjustable strap and zip-top closure keep belongings secure from the streets of Shanghai to the slopes of Aspen.

# Kate Spade New York Cameron Street Lucie Bag

Crisp and structured, this pretty little bag from Kate Spade is crafted of Saffiano leather. The adjustable crossbody strap and variety of cheerful hues reflect the brand’s feminine yet practical style.

# Bellroy Tokyo Tote Mini

Bellroy’s Tokyo Tote Mini is a stealthy crossbody disguised as a slim tote bag. Made with environmentally certified leather, it has ample organization and sleek lines.

# Baggu Drawstring Bag

Cinchable Baggu’s drawstring design takes the handsfree crossbody to a sportier place. It’s made of recycled ripstop nylon, can fold into its own internal pouch, and comes in an array of zingy prints.

# Patagonia Atom Sling Bag

Patagonia’s Atom Sling is ready to go with you from the trail to the bar. The main compartment can hold a tablet, while interior organizer pockets keep gear sorted, and the strap adjusts for crossbody or sling-style carry.

# Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody

The Lo & Sons Pearl is thoughtfully engineered as a petite everyday bag with clever features like a zipped pocket that detaches to become a pouch. The strap is long enough for crossbody or shoulder wear.

# Madewell The Transport Crossbody Bag

For understated sophistication, look no further than Madewell’s The Transport Crossbody. Its premium leather develops a unique patina over time while staying super sleek and lightweight.

# Bellroy Lite Tote Mini

Another chic and foldable option from Bellroy, the Lite Tote Mini packs into its own built-in pouch for stashing in suitcases. The crossbody strap can be tucked away when carrying as a tote.

# Away The Front Pocket Sling

Luggage brand Away offers a straightforward but well-crafted Front Pocket Sling perfect for essentials. It’s cut from water-resistant nylon with a wide opening and interior card sleeve.

Tips for Packing a Crossbody Bag Efficiently

To maximize space in your crossbody bag, roll clothing items and stash slim pouches in nooks and crannies. Use organizer inserts to segregate items. Pack flat items like guidebooks and maps on the bottom. Keep heavier items towards your body to distribute weight. Use packing cubes to keep contents neat. Bring mini toiletry bottles and two-in-one products.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Crossbody Bag

Follow care instructions from the manufacturer. For basic cleaning, use a soft brush and mild soap and water to spot clean. Allow to fully dry before conditioning leather. Stuff with tissue paper when storing to retain shape. Check stitching regularly for wear and bring to a leatherworker for repairs.

Conclusion

A crossbody bag really is the ultimate travel companion. With so many stylish, functional, and secure options now available, every jetsetter can find their perfect handsfree sidekick. Whether you choose an anti-theft powerhouse from Pacsafe, an elegant leather design from Coach, or a sporty packable pick from Baggu, crossbody bags allow you to hit the road with confidence.

The next time you’re packing for an overseas adventure or quick weekend getaway, be sure to grab a crossbody bag that suits your personal taste and needs. With your belongings nestled close and your hands left free, you’ll be ready to fully immerse yourself in the joys of new destinations. Wherever your compass points next, a crossbody bag will have your back as you make lifelong memories.