Finding the perfect travel purse is a little like finding the perfect pair of jeans. You want something that looks good, feels comfortable, and works with just about everything in your wardrobe. And when you’re traveling, there are a few extra things to consider.
After a decade of traveling around Europe and beyond, I’ve learned that the right purse can seriously make a huge difference. And I’m not just talking about practicality and style. Keeping your belongings safe is just as important, especially when exploring busy tourist destinations where pickpocketing can be a concern (looking at you, Barcelona).
Whether you’re wandering through Paris, hopping between cafés in Barcelona, or exploring the streets of Málaga, you want a bag that keeps your essentials close without weighing you down.
Personally, I’ve always gravitated toward travel purses that are both practical and stylish. I love a good crossbody for sightseeing, but I’m equally drawn to a beautiful leather shoulder bag that can take me from a day of exploring straight to dinner.
Below, I’m sharing 10 of the best travel purses for women, including affordable everyday favorites, designer-worthy splurges, and versatile styles you’ll want to wear long after your vacation ends.
This article contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you shop through them, at no extra cost to you. I only share products I genuinely recommend for travel.
Key Takeaways: Best Travel Purses at a Glance
- Best overall: BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag ($56)
- Best luxury purse: CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag ($525)
- Best lightweight crossbody: AWAY Featherlight Duo Crossbody ($58)
- Best affordable crossbody: Quince Revive Nylon Foldover Crossbody ($69.90)
- Best day-to-night purse: Quince Grace Foldover Crossbody ($123)
- Best premium leather shoulder bag: LO & SONS Aoyama 2 Leather Crescent Bag ($288)
- Best small shoulder bag: Quince Blair Small Shoulder Bag ($120)
- Best woven shoulder bag: Quince Elodie Handwoven Shoulder Bag ($168)
- Best leather tote: Quince Siena Handwoven Tote ($154)
- Best large travel purse: Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote ($180)
The Best Travel Purses: A Quick Comparison
| Bag | Price | Material | Closure | How to wear it | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $56 | Recycled nylon | Zip top | Crossbody or shoulder | Check Price | |
| $58 | Water-repellent nylon | Zip top | Crossbody or by hand | Check Price | |
| $69.90 | Nylon | Foldover flap | Crossbody | Check Price | |
| $123 | Italian leather | Magnetic foldover flap | Crossbody | Check Price | |
| $525 | Handwoven leather | Zip top | Crossbody or shoulder | Check Price | |
| $288 | Sheepskin leather | Zip top | Shoulder, handbag, or crossbody | Check Price | |
| $120 | Italian leather | Zip top | Shoulder or crossbody | Check Price | |
| $168 | Handwoven Italian leather | Zip top | Shoulder (fits a 13" laptop) | Check Price | |
| $154 | Handwoven leather | Magnetic snap | Shoulder (fits a 16" laptop) | Check Price | |
| $180 | Recycled nylon, leather trim | Zip top + snap flap | Shoulder (folds flat) | Check Price |
Prices are full retail at the time of writing and often drop during sales, so check the current price before you buy.
10 Best Travel Purses for Women
Whether you’re looking for a hands-free crossbody, a chic shoulder bag, or a spacious tote, there’s something here for just about every type of trip. If I’m going on a week-long vacation, I tend to bring one larger bag for the flight to use as my personal item bag and then I’ll throw in a smaller shoulder purse for dinners and sightseeing. That way, if I need to carry more things during the day, I can always switch to my more spacious bag and vice versa.
Below are a few of my personal favorites, categorized by bag type and style.
Best Crossbody Travel Purses
Crossbody bags are easily one of my favorite styles for traveling. They’re comfortable, keep your hands free, and make it easier to keep your belongings close when navigating busy cities. Plus, they’re one of the safest options when traveling to cities where pickpocketing is a common problem.
1. BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag: Best Overall Travel Purse
Best for: city sightseeing, weekend trips, and everyday use
If you’re looking for a travel purse that’s comfortable, affordable, and effortlessly cool, the BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag is one of my top picks.
What I love most about this bag is its simplicity. The crescent shape gives it that relaxed, slightly slouchy look that’s everywhere right now, but it doesn’t feel overly trendy.
The lightweight nylon material is another selling point. It’s easy to care for, and the medium size gives you plenty of room for a camera, wallet, passport, and any other long-haul flight essential.
Personally, I think this is one of the best travel purses for everyday sightseeing. Not only can you throw this bag on with jeans and sneakers, but you can also wear it with a summer dress while exploring a new city.
Why I love it: It’s lightweight, affordable, and goes with just about everything I pack, which is exactly what I want from an everyday travel purse.
2. AWAY Featherlight Duo Crossbody: Best Lightweight Travel Purse
Best for: international travel, airports, and minimalist packing
Sometimes, the best travel purse is the one you barely notice you’re wearing. That’s exactly why the AWAY Featherlight Duo Crossbody is a great contender.
This compact crossbody is ideal for those days when you want to bring just the essentials and leave everything else behind.
I particularly like this style for busy sightseeing days. When you’re constantly taking photos, checking directions, or hopping on public transportation, the last thing you want is a bulky bag getting in the way.
Plus, its minimalist design works with just about any outfit, from casual airport clothes to a simple linen set. I always find that AWAY makes great travel luggage and bags, so if practicality is what you’re after, definitely consider the AWAY Featherlight Duo Crossbody.
Keep in mind: it’s a compact bag, so it’s best for the essentials (phone, cards, keys, and lip balm) rather than a camera or water bottle.
Why I love it: I’m a big fan of smaller bags for sightseeing, especially when I know I’ll be walking for hours. This one feels practical without looking overly sporty.
3. Quince Revive Nylon Foldover Crossbody: Best Affordable Crossbody
Best for: European city breaks, casual sightseeing, and everyday outfits
If you love the look of a relaxed crossbody but want something a little more polished, the Quince Revive Nylon Foldover Crossbody is worth considering.
The foldover silhouette gives it a more interesting shape than your typical rectangular crossbody, while the nylon construction keeps it lightweight and travel-friendly.
One thing I love about Quince is how affordable their bags are. No matter what kind of travel purse you’re looking for, Quince offers a bunch of different styles, shapes, and materials to choose from.
I could easily see myself wearing this while exploring museums, stopping for coffee, or wandering through local boutiques on a European city break. I also love the organization that comes with this bag!
Why I love it: It has a slightly more elevated look than your typical nylon travel bag, without the designer price tag.
4. Quince Grace Foldover Crossbody: Best Day-to-Night Travel Purse
Best for: romantic getaways, city breaks, and elevated dinners
One of my biggest packing rules is to bring pieces that work for multiple occasions. That’s why I love the idea of the Quince Grace Foldover Crossbody.
Unlike more casual nylon bags, this purse has a polished silhouette that feels appropriate for everything from afternoon sightseeing to dinner at a beautiful restaurant.
This is exactly the kind of bag I would pack for a week-long trip. It’s a great bag for daytime exploring or dinners al fresco, and it’s also a great option if you’re trying to pack light and don’t want to bring multiple handbags.
Keep in mind: it probably won’t fit a camera, and the flap closes with a magnet rather than a zipper, so wear it toward the front of your body in crowded areas.
Why I love it: I appreciate accessories that can do double duty, and this one has the kind of timeless look that works for both daytime and evening outfits.
5. CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag: Best Luxury Travel Purse
Best for: luxury city breaks, European vacations, and elevated everyday outfits
I’ll admit it: I have a soft spot for beautiful leather bags, especially ones that feel a little different from the usual designer styles. And the CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag is exactly the kind of purse that catches my eye.
There’s something so effortlessly chic about its relaxed messenger silhouette. It has that slightly undone, French-inspired look that works beautifully with jeans, linen trousers, or a simple summer dress.
My sister was the one to introduce me to this purse, and all her friends have one back in California. What I particularly love is that it makes a statement without feeling flashy. The shape has personality, but it’s still timeless enough to wear every day. It also comes in so many fun colors, which is always a bonus!
Keep in mind: it’s definitely an investment, and I’d probably save it for city breaks rather than rugged adventures.
Why I love it: This is one of my favorite bags on the list from a fashion perspective. I love accessories that feel special without being covered in logos.
Best Shoulder Bags for Travel
Sometimes you want something a little more elegant than a crossbody, especially if you’re spending your vacation exploring restaurants, boutiques, and coastal towns.
Personally, I love packing a smaller shoulder bag for evenings out. It barely takes up any room in my luggage and instantly makes a simple outfit feel more put together.
6. LO & SONS Aoyama 2 Leather Crescent Bag: Best Premium Leather Shoulder Bag
Best for: frequent travelers and minimalist wardrobes
If you’re willing to spend a little more, the LO & SONS Aoyama 2 Leather Crescent Bag is a beautiful option.
LO & SONS specializes in thoughtfully designed bags, and I think that approach makes a lot of sense for frequent travelers. After all, a purse might look beautiful, but if it’s uncomfortable or difficult to organize, you’re probably not going to enjoy carrying it all day.
What draws me to the Aoyama 2 is its combination of a modern crescent silhouette and soft sheepskin leather that keeps it surprisingly lightweight. The modular strap lets you carry it as a handbag, on the shoulder, or crossbody, and it’s one of those classic purses you’ll use both in your home city and on weekend adventures.
Why I love it: I love a timeless bag that will be in style for years to come. This one feels like an investment piece you could use year after year.
7. Quince Blair Small Shoulder Bag: Best Small Travel Purse
Best for: minimalist travelers, dinners out, and weekend getaways
Sometimes, less really is more. And the Quince Blair Small Shoulder Bag is a perfect example. Its clean silhouette and understated leather design make it feel sophisticated without being overly dressy.
What I especially appreciate is its versatility. It comes with two different strap lengths, so you can wear it as a classic shoulder bag for dinner or use the longer crossbody strap when you want to keep your hands free.
That might seem like a small detail, but I love anything that makes packing easier. Plus, it’s just a simple yet stylish bag that can really elevate a look, which is especially important when trying to pack light.
Why I love it: I think this is such a chic little bag for European vacations. I can picture wearing it with a linen dress in Italy or tailored trousers for dinner in Paris.
8. Quince Elodie Handwoven Shoulder Bag: Best Woven Travel Purse
Best for: Mediterranean vacations, resort destinations, and stylish city breaks
There’s something about woven leather bags that I absolutely love, especially for summer vacations.
The Quince Elodie Handwoven Shoulder Bag has that relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic that feels right at home in places like Menorca, the Amalfi Coast, or the South of France.
The woven leather adds texture without making the bag feel too busy. It’s one of those accessories that can make a simple white dress or linen outfit look instantly more stylish.
And while I particularly love it for summer, I think it would look equally beautiful with jeans and a trench coat in the fall. I also just love a big bag like this that you can throw whatever you need for the day into. It even fits a 13-inch laptop.
Keep in mind: it’s a shoulder-only bag with no crossbody strap, so it’s better suited to relaxed days and evenings than packed metro rides.
Why I love it: This is one of my favorite styles on the list. It feels sophisticated without trying too hard, and the woven texture gives it that little something extra.
Best Large Travel Purses and Tote Bags
If you like having a little extra room, a larger travel purse might be the way to go. Travel tote bags are particularly useful for flights, weekend getaways, and days when you need more than just your phone and wallet.
9. Quince Siena Handwoven Tote: Best Leather Travel Tote
Best for: European vacations, shopping days, and weekend getaways
If you’re looking for a travel purse that feels more like a beautiful everyday handbag than traditional travel gear, the Quince Siena Handwoven Tote is probably my top choice.
As you can see from my list so far, I’m very drawn to woven leather bags, and this one has the kind of timeless design that works particularly well for European vacations.
What I like about a larger tote is the flexibility to bring a few extra essentials, whether that’s a book for the train, a small makeup pouch, or a cardigan for cooler evenings. As a freelancer, I’m always packing my laptop while on the move, so I especially love a practical bag that can fit my laptop and charger while still looking cute. And unlike some oversized travel bags, this one feels much more refined.
Keep in mind: it closes with a magnetic snap rather than a zipper, so I keep my phone and wallet in a zipped pouch inside when I’m out in busy areas.
Why I love it: I really appreciate travel bags that don’t look like travel bags. This is something I’d buy because I genuinely love the design, not just because it’s practical.
10. Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote: Best Classic Travel Purse
Best for: international flights, weekend trips, and everyday errands
Ah, the Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote. This one brings back memories!
When I first moved to Barcelona, I used my Longchamp tote for years. It came with me on flights, weekend getaways, shopping trips, and just about everywhere in between.
What makes this bag so useful is its simplicity. The lightweight nylon construction means you’re not adding unnecessary weight, while the spacious interior gives you plenty of room for everyday essentials.
Another feature I love is that it folds down compactly, making it easy to pack as an extra bag. And, of course, there’s the style factor. The combination of nylon and leather details gives it that classic French-inspired look that never really goes out of fashion.
Why I love it: I used this exact bag for years, and it’s one of the most durable options on the list. I’ve used mine for just about everything, and I still think it’s one of the best travel purses for frequent travelers.
How to Choose the Best Travel Purse for International Travel
Finding the best travel purse for international travel comes down to more than choosing something cute. Here are a few things I always consider before buying a new bag.
Comfort and Weight
If you’re planning to spend hours sightseeing, comfort should be a priority. I generally prefer a lightweight crossbody bag with an adjustable strap, especially for destinations where I’ll be walking all day.
Security and Organization
Living in Barcelona has made me particularly aware of pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas. I prefer purses with secure zippers and interior pockets for valuables. Some dedicated anti-theft crossbody bags also offer locking closures, slash-resistant straps, or RFID-blocking pockets.
While those features can be useful, I don’t think you necessarily need a specialized anti-theft bag. A secure crossbody worn close to your body is typically just fine.
Size and Functionality
Think about what you’ll actually carry. For me, that’s usually my phone, wallet, sunglasses, lip balm, and keys. If you need extra space for a water bottle, camera, or sweater, a larger tote or travel backpack might make more sense.
Material and Versatility
Nylon bags are generally lightweight and easy to care for, making them great for active trips. Leather bags feel more elevated and can transition beautifully from sightseeing to dinner. Personally, I try to choose purses that work with my everyday wardrobe, too. The best travel accessories are the ones you’ll continue using once you’re home.
FAQs About the Best Travel Purses
What is the best travel purse for international travel?
For most travelers, I recommend a lightweight crossbody bag with a secure closure and comfortable strap. The BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag is one of my favorite all-around options because it’s affordable, versatile, and easy to style.
Is a crossbody bag or shoulder bag better for travel?
I generally prefer crossbody bags for sightseeing because they’re hands-free and easier to keep close to your body. Shoulder bags are great for dinners, shopping, and more relaxed outings.
What is the safest type of purse for traveling?
A crossbody purse with a secure zipper is the safest purse style for travel. For additional security, look for anti-theft bags with locking zippers or reinforced straps.
What size purse should I bring when traveling?
A small to medium-sized purse is usually enough for everyday sightseeing. If you’re carrying a water bottle, camera, or extra clothing, consider a larger tote or even a travel backpack.
Are leather purses good for travel?
Absolutely! I love leather handbags because they’re stylish and versatile. However, they can be heavier than nylon and may require more care, particularly in rainy destinations.
What are the best handbags to travel with in Europe?
I’d recommend a crossbody bag for sightseeing or a small shoulder bag for evenings out. I also love bringing a large tote for flights and train journeys so you can have all your essentials within reach.
Final Thoughts: Which Travel Purse Is Worth Buying?
After years of traveling, I’ve realized that the best travel purses are the ones that can balance style with convenience. They should make your life easier, feel comfortable throughout the day, and work with the clothes you’ve packed.
If I had to narrow this list down, I’d choose the BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag for everyday sightseeing, the CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag for a more elevated travel wardrobe, and the Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote for flights and longer trips.
Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your personal style and how you like to travel.
And if you’re building out your travel wardrobe, be sure to check out my guides to the best crossbody bags for travel and best travel tote bags for even more stylish options.
Looking for more travel tips and luggage guides? Read more articles below:
10 Best Crossbody Bags for Travel That Are Actually Stylish
10 Best Personal Item Bags for Flying in 2026
7 Best Backpacks for Travel That Are Actually Worth Buying
5 Best Carry-On Suitcases in 2026: The Buyer’s Guide to Luggage Worth Taking On Every Trip
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