5 Best Crossbody Bags for Travel of All Kinds
Whether you’re hiking up a mountain, hitting a nightclub, or struggling your way through the TSA line, you need a purse that’ll keep all your essentials close to your body and protected from the elements (not to mention out of the hands of pickpockets). For me, the best crossbody bags for travel tend to have a few things in common: They’re durable, they’re versatile, and they make the occasional struggles of vacay life less annoying…and if they’re stylish, that’s just an added bonus.
From belt bags and bum bags to sling bags and camera bags, I rounded up all the best travel-friendly crossbody bags out there, based on my own testing and the suggestions provided by my fellow jet-setting Cosmopolitan editors. And to help you out, I included bags of all sizes, price points, and styles (including several waterproof crossbody bags that will keep your stuff dry in the case of an unexpected thunderstorm) ’cause I’m nice like that. Here’s a sneak peek at my faves if you’re curious.
1 Best overall crossbody bag
Obsessed doesn’t begin to describe how I feel about this quilted cutie (which may look smol but can hold SO much stuff, trust). Created using recovered pre-consumer materials, the Metro Crossbody is sustainably made yet features so many luxe details, including natural Italian leather trim and diamond-quilted shell. I love how it features two exterior pockets (one in the front and one in the back), as well as a roomy interior section with a zip closure for storing your phone, wallet, passport, sunnies, or whatever else you need to take along for the day.
- Dimensions: 8.3″H x 6.1″W x 1.77″D
- Strap drop: 15.75″ to 27.5″
- Material: Recycled nylon with leather trim
- Colors: Dawn, Black, Magnet, Moss, or Ocher
- Water-repellent? No, only water-resistant
Glowing Customer Review: “The Metro Crossbody is excellent for travel. It held my phone, passport, wallet, sunglasses, tissues, and lipstick. It’s so balanced that it was not heavy—even with local coins! I loved it, and it was elegant and practical.”
2 Best waterproof crossbody bag
When I realized Quince made travel accessories, I *had* to try out a piece for myself to see if that price was too good to be true. Spoiler: It’s not. Made from recycled plastic bottles, this minimalist option is both sustainable and functional, boasting two separate zipper compartments, a foldover design, and a hidden back pocket to keep your phone easily accessible. This one is available in half a dozen color options and even comes with a dust bag for storage—and yep, you better believe that nylon fabric is ultra-durable and 100 percent water-repellent for worry-free rainy days.
- Dimensions: 8″H x 11″W x 4.7″D
- Strap drop: 14.5″ to 25.5″
- Material: Recycled nylon
- Colors: Black, Olive, Mulberry, Ash Grey, Navy, or Deep Teal
- Water-repellent? Yes
Glowing Customer Review: “I was a little skeptical because of its smaller size, but this is the Swiss Army knife of purses. There was nothing I was unable to fit in. The location of the many pockets are perfect. Super easy to grab what I needed and very secure. I also got repeated compliments on how cute it was.”
4 Best crossbody bag
What I love about this Amazon bestseller: It’s got room for legit anything you could want on the go. Designed like a mini backpack (but, ya know, for your front), the Roomy Sling Bag has an impressive six-liter capacity, with a front zippered pocket, two interior sections with zip closures and open slots for organization, and a “secret” back pocket for holding cash, passports, and other valuables. Testers also appreciate the soft faux-leather fabric, the pretty woven strap, and the fact that it costs just a little over $25.
- Dimensions: 11.5″H x 7.5″W x 4.5″D
- Strap drop: 12″ to 24″
- Material: Faux leather
- Colors: 20+ options
- Water-repellent? No, only water-resistant
Glowing Customer Review: “I had yet to find the right bag for traveling in Europe until I found this! It was versatile and the perfect size for the 3 weeks I traveled with it. I loved the ‘hidden’ pocket on the back—I used it for my credit card and cash. This bag was comfortable and easy to carry and held up really well.”
5. Mini Fashion Quilted Embroidered Ladies Crossbody Bag With Flap And Chain Strap
This mini square handbag exudes elegance with its sophisticated white color and chic contrast binding. Lightweight and compact, it’s perfect for carrying just the essentials while adding a refined touch to any outfit. The bag’s design combines colorblock, plain, and quilted patterns, creating an eye-catching, textured effect that enhances its luxurious look. Made from 100% polyurethane with an unusual yet intriguing paper-based material, it feels unique to the touch. The magnetic closure ensures quick, secure access to belongings, while the delicate chain strap adds a touch of glamour, making this handbag ideal for special occasions or evenings out.
