When I’m traveling, there’s one bag I almost always reach for: a crossbody. Whether I’m exploring a new city, wandering through museums, or heading out for dinner, I love having my essentials close without having to carry a handbag over my shoulder all day.
And beyond the convenience of having your hands free (especially when you’re juggling a coffee, your phone, and Google Maps), crossbody bags can also be a more secure option than traditional shoulder purses. Living in Barcelona, where pickpocketing is such a problem, I’ve learned just how important it is to keep your belongings close, especially in crowded tourist areas.
For me, the perfect travel crossbody needs to check three boxes: it has to be spacious enough to carry my everyday essentials, secure enough that I’m not constantly worrying about my belongings, and, of course, stylish enough to wear everywhere from the airport to a nice dinner out.
Fortunately, there are plenty of crossbody bags for travel that tick all three boxes. From buttery-soft leather to lightweight nylon and beautiful woven designs, I’ve rounded up 10 of my favorites that prove you don’t have to sacrifice style for practicality.
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 Crossbody Bags for Travel
- Best overall: CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag
- Best lightweight budget option: BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag
- Best leather option: Quince Italian Leather Foldover Crossbody
- Best for flying: AWAY Large Featherlight Crossbody Bag
- Best statement bag: CLARE V. Grande Fanny Bag
- Best woven crossbody: Juno Handwoven Crossbody
- Best for minimalists: Quince Blair Small Shoulder Bag
- Best casual everyday bag: Gemma Quilted Crossbody Bag
- Best practical everyday option: Quince Revive Nylon Foldover Crossbody Bag
- Best day-to-night bag: CLARE V. Midi Sac Bag
The Best Crossbody Bags for Travel: A Quick Comparison
| Bag | Price | Material | Closure | How to wear it | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| €620 | Handwoven leather | Zip top | Crossbody or shoulder | Check Price | |
| $120 | Leather | Zip top | Shoulder or crossbody | Check Price | |
| €470 | Handwoven leather | Zip top | Crossbody or belt bag | Check Price | |
| $96 | Woven leather | Zip top | Crossbody | Check Price | |
| $78 | Nylon | Zip top | Crossbody | Check Price | |
| $134 | Quilted leather | Zip top | Crossbody | Check Price | |
| $56 | Recycled nylon | Zip top | Crossbody or shoulder | Check Price | |
| $123 | Italian leather | Foldover flap | Crossbody | Check Price | |
| $69.90 | Nylon | Foldover flap | Crossbody | Check Price | |
| €470 | Woven leather | Zip top | Crossbody | Check Price |
Prices are full retail at the time of writing and often drop during sales, so check the current price before you buy. CLARE V. prices are listed in euros.
Best Crossbody Bags for Travel: My Top 10 Picks
The best crossbody bag for travel should keep your essentials close without feeling bulky or looking like technical travel gear.
Whether you’re looking for a roomy everyday bag, something sleek for evenings out, or a lightweight option for sightseeing, these are some of the best crossbody bags worth considering for your next trip.
1. CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag: Best Overall
Best for: European city breaks, weekend getaways, and travelers who want one stylish everyday bag
If I could only bring one crossbody bag on a European city break, the CLARE V. Moyen Messenger would be high on my list.
It has that effortlessly chic, slightly understated look that works beautifully with just about everything. Think linen trousers and sandals in the summer, or jeans, a trench coat, and loafers in the fall.
My sister was the one to introduce me to CLARE V., and I seriously think it’s one of the best bag brands on the market today!
What I particularly love about this bag is its slouchy silhouette. It feels more like a fashionable everyday handbag than something specifically designed for travel, yet its messenger-style shape makes it practical for exploring. It’s also roomier than many small crossbody bags.
The Moyen is also a great choice if you prefer leather crossbody bags that won’t feel outdated after a season or two.
Keep in mind: it’s an investment piece. But if you’re looking for a bag that’s going to give you a lot of wear, both on trips and at home, I highly recommend splurging on this one.
Why I love it: Its relaxed, timeless design transitions effortlessly from casual sightseeing to nicer dinners out.
2. Quince Blair Small Shoulder Bag: Best for Minimalists
Best for: minimalist packers, dinner reservations, and city getaways
Sometimes, less really is more.
The Quince Blair Small Shoulder Bag is ideal for travelers who prefer a clean, polished look without carrying a large purse everywhere. Its compact silhouette makes it particularly appealing for evenings out, when you only need your phone, wallet, keys, and a few small essentials.
When I’m doing a little weekend trip in Europe, I always reach for a simpler purse like this one since it’s easy to pack and fits all my basic essentials.
It comes with two different strap lengths, so you can wear it on the shoulder for dinner or switch to the longer strap to wear it crossbody while you’re exploring. It’s a lovely addition to a travel wardrobe, especially if you’re planning a trip with plenty of dinners, wine bars, and evenings out.
Keep in mind: this is primarily a shoulder bag rather than a traditional crossbody. If hands-free convenience is your top priority, I’d choose another option from this list.
Why I love it: Its minimalist design pairs easily with different outfits and is a polished alternative to a larger daytime travel purse.
3. CLARE V. Grande Fanny Bag in Handwoven Leather: Best Statement Bag
Best for: fashion-conscious travelers who love statement accessories
A fanny pack, but make it fashionable.
The CLARE V. Grande Fanny Bag is proof that practical travel accessories don’t have to look sporty or overly functional.
Its handwoven leather gives it a beautiful textured finish, while the curved shape feels modern and relaxed. It’s the kind of bag that can make a simple outfit look instantly more put together.
What I love about this bag is that it perfectly balances elevated style with practicality. Plus, it comes in 12 different colors and materials, so whether you prefer a timeless neutral or something that adds a pop of color to your travel wardrobe, there’s an option for every style.
I particularly like this style for destinations where you’re constantly on the move. You can wear it across your body for a more contemporary look, making it a stylish alternative to a traditional belt bag or crossbody sling bag. And unlike some sling bags that feel more appropriate for hiking than a city break, this one works just as well with a summer dress.
Why I love it: It’s a hands-free design that’s convenient for sightseeing, but far more elevated than a typical fanny pack.
4. Juno Handwoven Crossbody: Best Woven Crossbody
Best for: summer vacations, beach towns, and Mediterranean getaways
There’s something about a woven bag that immediately makes me think of summer in Europe.
The Juno Handwoven Crossbody has that relaxed, vacation-ready aesthetic that works particularly well for Mediterranean destinations.
I can picture wearing it with a white linen dress in Mallorca, tailored shorts in the South of France, or a simple tank top and trousers while exploring a coastal town in Italy. It’s such a versatile bag that can really work for any city break.
What makes woven crossbody bags so appealing is their ability to add texture to an outfit without feeling overly dressy. I also love that the Juno has a secure zipper instead of a magnetic clasp, which is an easy way to deter pickpockets.
Keep in mind: with any woven bag, check the interior and closure before packing it for a busy sightseeing day. A secure fastening is particularly important when you’re traveling through crowded areas.
Why I love it: It’s a beautifully textured alternative to a traditional leather handbag that’s easy to style with warm-weather outfits.
5. AWAY Large Featherlight Crossbody Bag: Best for Flying
Best for: flights, sightseeing, and travelers who prioritize comfort
When it comes to airport days, practicality becomes a little more important. And honestly, sometimes I choose the more casual yet practical bag, especially if I’m doing a long-haul flight.
That’s where the AWAY Large Featherlight Crossbody comes in. Unlike structured leather purses, this lightweight style is designed with everyday functionality in mind. It’s a particularly appealing choice when you want quick access to your passport, phone, headphones, and other daily essentials. Plus, since it’s made from fabric, it can easily be shoved under your seat or in the overhead bin without any issues.
I love having a separate crossbody when flying because it means I don’t have to rummage through my personal item bag every time I need something. A lightweight bag also makes sense for long sightseeing days, especially in warmer destinations where a heavy leather purse can become uncomfortable after a few hours.
Keep in mind: its casual, sporty look is better suited to travel days and sightseeing than a dressy dinner out.
Why I love it: It’s lightweight, practical, and makes long travel days so much easier.
6. Gemma Quilted Crossbody Bag: Best Casual Everyday Bag
Best for: casual city trips, weekend travel, and everyday sightseeing
If your travel wardrobe leans toward relaxed, comfortable pieces, the Gemma Quilted Crossbody is worth a look.
Quilted bags have become a favorite for good reason. They’re soft, casual, and add a little texture to an outfit without demanding too much attention.
I especially like this style for travel days when you’re wearing sneakers, comfortable jeans, and an oversized sweater. It’s also a nice option if you don’t want to bring an expensive leather bag on every trip.
Compared with more structured purses, a soft quilted design feels a little more carefree, which is exactly what I want when I’m heading out for a full day of exploring.
Why I love it: It’s a soft, relaxed, and stylish alternative to sporty nylon bags.
7. BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag: Best Lightweight Crossbody
Best for: long sightseeing days, everyday travel, and anyone who prefers low-maintenance bags
The BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag has become a recognizable everyday staple, and I completely understand the appeal.
It’s simple, practical, affordable, and surprisingly versatile.
The crescent shape feels contemporary without being too trendy, while the nylon construction makes it a sensible choice for destinations where you might encounter unpredictable weather.
I also love that it’s a bag you can throw around. When I’m traveling, the last thing I want is to spend the entire day worrying about scratching an expensive handbag.
Its adjustable strap gives you flexibility in how you wear it, whether you prefer it closer to your body or with a more relaxed fit. Plus, it comes in a bunch of fun colors and designs, so you can add a little personality to your travel outfits.
Why I love it: It’s lightweight, low-maintenance, and easy to wear with casual outfits and sneakers.
8. Quince Italian Leather Foldover Crossbody: Best Leather Crossbody
Best for: travelers who prefer timeless accessories and elevated everyday outfits
If you’re looking for something classic, the Quince Italian Leather Foldover Crossbody is one of my favorite styles on this list. It has a refined, understated appearance that makes it easy to incorporate into a capsule travel wardrobe.
The foldover silhouette feels elegant without being overly formal, making it a great option for transitioning between sightseeing and dinner. Plus, the foldover adds an extra layer of security, which is always a bonus!
I also think a neutral leather crossbody is one of the most useful accessories you can pack on an international trip. It works with almost everything and can make even a simple outfit feel more intentional.
Why I love it: It’s a classic Italian leather design that’s polished enough for evenings out, without the designer price tag.
9. Quince Revive Nylon Foldover Crossbody Bag: Best Practical Everyday Option
Best for: everyday travel, sightseeing, and travelers who prefer lightweight accessories
For travelers who love the look of a foldover bag but prefer something lighter than leather, the Quince Revive Nylon Foldover Crossbody is a great alternative.
Nylon is particularly useful for travel because it’s generally lightweight and easier to maintain than delicate materials. The foldover shape also gives this bag a more polished appearance than many sporty crossbody designs.
It’s the kind of piece I’d consider for a trip involving a little bit of everything: airport transfers, museums, casual lunches, and plenty of walking.
Why I love it: It’s a lightweight, understated, and practical alternative to leather that pairs with just about any outfit.
10. CLARE V. Midi Sac Bag: Best Day-to-Night Crossbody
Best for: romantic city breaks, dinners out, and minimalist packing
Rounding out the list is the CLARE V. Midi Sac, a beautiful option for anyone who prefers a more compact, structured-looking bag. What I love about this style is how easily it fits into a more elevated travel wardrobe.
It’s exactly the kind of accessory I’d pack for a long weekend in Paris, where I want something practical for daytime exploring but stylish enough for a nice dinner afterward.
For me, the biggest advantage of a bag like this is versatility. If I’m traveling with only a carry-on suitcase, I don’t want to waste precious luggage space packing multiple handbags.
Keep in mind: the smaller silhouette is best for travelers who don’t need to carry much beyond the essentials.
Why I love it: It’s chic, compact, and easy to dress up or down, which makes it perfect for a versatile travel capsule wardrobe.
Stylish Crossbody Bags for Travel: What to Look For
The best travel accessories are the ones you end up using long after your vacation is over. And when it comes to stylish crossbody bags for women, I think a few details make all the difference.
Personally, I usually travel with a larger tote bag or backpack for flights and a smaller crossbody for exploring once I arrive. It’s a combination that’s worked well for me over the years.
Comfortable, Adjustable Straps
An adjustable shoulder strap is essential if you plan on wearing your bag for hours. I prefer a crossbody strap that lets me position the bag close to my body rather than having it swing around while I’m walking.
Secure Closures and Useful Pockets
Look for sturdy zippers, an interior slip pocket, and compartments that keep your phone and wallet separate. You don’t necessarily need dozens of pockets, but a little organization goes a long way.
Lightweight, Durable Materials
Leather looks beautiful and tends to work well for dressier occasions, while nylon is often more practical for unpredictable weather. Faux leather can also be an affordable alternative, although the quality can vary depending on the brand.
The Right Size for Your Essentials
A small crossbody bag is perfect if you only carry your phone, cards, and keys. However, if you’re someone who likes bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and a portable charger, a roomier style will probably serve you better.
Best Anti Theft Crossbody Bag for Travel: What Matters Most?
If you’re traveling to a busy destination, security is another important consideration.
Living in Barcelona, I’ve become particularly mindful of where I keep my belongings, especially on crowded public transportation and in tourist-heavy neighborhoods. While I love a beautiful leather handbag, I wouldn’t necessarily choose an open-top design for a busy sightseeing day.
The best anti theft crossbody bag for travel should ideally have several protective features:
- Secure, preferably lockable zippers
- Slash-resistant straps for additional protection
- An RFID-blocking pocket if electronic card protection is a priority
- Interior compartments for valuables
- A design that sits comfortably against the front of your body
Dedicated anti theft crossbody bags often include these features, although most fashion-focused bags don’t offer all of them.
Of the options I’ve included, I’d lean toward a secure, zippered style such as the BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag for everyday sightseeing. However, it isn’t a dedicated anti-theft bag and shouldn’t be mistaken for one.
My biggest piece of advice? Keep your bag zipped, wear it toward the front of your body in crowded areas, and avoid leaving valuables unattended at restaurants.
Crossbody Bags for Travel: Frequently Asked Questions
Are crossbody bags good for traveling?
Yes! Crossbody bags are one of the most practical styles for travel because they keep your hands free while making essentials easily accessible. They’re especially useful for sightseeing, navigating airports, and exploring cities on foot.
What is the best crossbody bag for travel?
I personally love the CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag for its timeless design and versatility. If you’re on a budget, the BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag is a lightweight, practical alternative.
Are crossbody bags safer than backpacks?
Crossbody bags can make it easier to keep an eye on your belongings, particularly when worn across the front of your body. However, security depends on the design and how you wear it. A secure zipper and close-fitting strap are generally more important than the style alone.
What is the best material for a travel crossbody bag?
Nylon is a great choice for lightweight, everyday travel, while leather is ideal if you want something more polished and versatile. Both can work beautifully, depending on your destination and personal style.
Is a sling bag better than a crossbody bag for travel?
A sling bag is often more casual and sporty, while a traditional crossbody purse tends to look more polished. A slim sling bag can be particularly comfortable for active sightseeing, but either style works well for traveling.
Can a crossbody bag count as a personal item on a plane?
Usually, yes, provided it meets the airline’s size requirements. However, some airlines count a crossbody as your one permitted personal item rather than allowing it in addition to a tote bag or travel backpack. Always check your airline’s baggage policy before flying.
What size crossbody bag is best for travel?
For everyday sightseeing, choose a bag that comfortably fits your phone, wallet, sunglasses, keys, and a few small essentials. A medium-sized crossbody is often the most versatile option, offering enough space without becoming bulky.
Final Thoughts: Which Crossbody Bag Is Best for Travel?
At the end of the day, the best crossbody bag for travel is one that suits your personal style and the way you actually explore a destination.
If you’re looking for something timeless and elevated, I’d choose the CLARE V. Moyen Messenger Bag. For long sightseeing days, the BAGGU Medium Nylon Crescent Bag is a wonderfully practical alternative. And if you prefer a classic leather design, the Quince Italian Leather Foldover Crossbody is a beautiful option.
After years of traveling around Europe, I’ve learned that the best bags aren’t necessarily the most expensive or the ones with the most features. They’re the ones that make getting dressed easy, keep your essentials close, and feel comfortable enough to wear all day.
And if they happen to look beautiful with your favorite vacation outfits? Even better.
Looking for more travel tips and luggage guides? Read more articles below:
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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