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The Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

The best travel bag for both men and women is a crossbody bag.

Crossbody bags for travel are more secure than a shoulder travel purse or backpack. They are often more stylish than a traditional travel daypack, so they don’t make you stand out as a tourist potentially making you a target for pickpockets.

A crossbody bag is also often more practical and convenient than a backpack for travel, especially when sightseeing in busy cities. I rate a good cross-body bag as a travel essential for ladies.

Best crossbody bags for travel

Fanny Packs are back in fashion so we hunted down the Best Anti-theft Waist Bags for Travel. Prepare to be amazed at the modern, stylish range available. Some even convert to be worn cross-body, sling style.

Why You Need A Crossbody Bag for Travel 

The reason a crossbody bag is one of the best bags for travel, other than convenience, comfort and style, is safety. A crossbody bag is more difficult for pickpockets to access and is less likely the target snatch and run theft.

We’ve put together this guide to take some of the guesswork out of choosing a crossbody bag, to help you find the most practical and comfortable bag for travel. Keeping in mind, the best bag for travel is not just safe, practical, and comfortable. It also needs to suit your style and last the distance. 


Safe & Stylish Crossbody Bags for Travel in 2022

Based on our own travel experience, we have rounded up some of the best and most popular crossbody travel bags on the market for both men and women. We have selected these bags based on the following criteria:

  • Reputable manufacturers of travel bags.
  • Bestsellers.
  • Design and functionality including; comfort, the versatility of design, and suitability for travel. 
  • Security of the design and anti-theft features. 

The fashionability and style of each bag were also considered because good Across Body Travel Bags should be ones you like wearing and are comfortable to wear on long travel days. 


Looking for a different kind of travel bag? We’ve found the  Best Anti Theft Backpacks for Travel and Sling Backpacks for travel and every day for men & women.

Crossbody Bag Comparison Chart

Read a more in-depth review of each crossbody bag below.

Complete your travel wardrobe: Find The Best Women’s Travel Jacket to pair with your crossbody handbag. See our top 5 Best Womens’ Pants for Travel that are stylish, comfortable and versatile.

Best Crossbody Bags for 2022 Reviews

Womens Crossbody Bags


Travelon Anti Theft Cross Body Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag, Midnight, One Size
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Travelon’s best selling anti-theft crossbody handbag for travel, this women’s crossbody bag has an excellent pocket configuration to keep your things organised and surprising capacity for its size.

The sleek design sits comfortably close to the body even when full, so it won’t stand out in a crowd or weigh you down.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag, Midnight, One Size

The bag will hold all of your handbag essentials as well as a small size travel water bottle and travel umbrella without looking overloaded. 

There is also room for a Kindle in the back pocket. Travelon’s pocket configuration coupled with anti-theft technology is the best feature of this bag. 


Travelon Anti Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag, Midnight, One Size
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Similar in design to the Travelon classic crossbody bag but more spacious. Like the Cross-Body Bucket Bag, this bag has two external expandable pockets on the sides to hold a travel water bottle and travel umbrella. This bag has room for a Kindle, iPad mini, cell phone and a compact camera.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag (A B/W SMALL FLOWER PRINT)

It also features all the usual Travelon anti-theft features and a good pocket configuration to keep your things safe and organised



Travelon Anti Theft Heritage Hobo Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag, Indigo, 11.5 X 9.5 X 3
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Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag, Indigo, 11.5 X 9.5 X 3

A more feminine version of the Heritage Tour bag this bag features the same stylish cotton canvas design, suede trim, matte nickel hardware and classic pinstripe lining.


Travelon Anti Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag, Midnight, One Size
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Looking for a smaller crossbody bag to carry the essentials, a phone, and a wallet? This bag is an excellent alternative to some of the large crossbody bags.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag, Midnight, One Size

While this bag does have a smaller profile, it still delivers on capacity. You get loads of compartments to keep your things organised and plenty of room for essentials, as well as a large smartphone, a Kindle, and a small water bottle without the bulk of a larger bag. 

Made with hard-wearing, easy-care fabric, this crossbody bag also has all of the best anti-theft features.



Travelon Anti Theft Crossbody Bucket Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag, Midnight, One Size - 42757 360
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Another Travelon bestseller, the anti-theft crossbody bucket bag maintains a sleek silhouette but has a tremendous capacity.

A versatile bag for travel and everyday use. Great for those who like a larger handbag. It is also a lightweight crossbody bag that is comfortable to wear – two essential attributes of a good travel bag, especially a crossbody bag.  Adjustable straps quickly transform it from a shoulder bag to a crossbody bag for added security.


Pacsafe Citysafe CS100 Travel Crossbody Bag

Pacsafe Citysafe Cs100, Almond, One Size
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This bag is a go-to bag for all occasions. A little smaller than the Travelon Crossbody Bucket Bag, this bag is consistently praised for being the perfect size for travel and day to day use. 

A practical bag with lots of functional size pockets and organisational features, you will fit all your essentials in this bag plus some without the risk of overloading yourself. 

Fit all your daily essentials, as well as an iPad in a padded tablet sleeve, phone, wallet, and chargers without looking too bulky.

Pacsafe Citysafe Cs100, Black

A bright interior lining makes things easy to find, and the classic design and sleek look won’t attract attention which is what you want for travel. 


Lululemon Festival Bag

Lululemon All Night Festival Bag (Antoinette)
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Activewear brand Lululemon gives us this stylish and versatile crossbody bag designed with festival-goers and modern travellers in mind.

Also picked by Forbes as a top crossbody bag for travel, the sweet “multi pouch bag” design also incorporates easy access wide, zip and fold opening with additional magnetic closure for added security.

It has lots of useful lots of useful pockets including, easy-access slots for phone or camera, a mesh fabric pocket for small items, and an internal pocket thoughtfully labelled “items of importance.”


Travelon Women’s Heritage Crossbody Bag

Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Heritage Small Crossbody, Indigo, 10.5 x 7 x 2
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A perfect handbag for city travel and around town, this cute little crossbody purse is a favourite.

Room for all your essentials plus a little more, the canvas exterior with leather accents and quality lining gives the bag a stylish finish some other anti-theft travel bags lack.

Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Heritage Small Crossbody, Indigo, 10.5 x 7 x 2

The small purse design may not be suitable for those who want to carry bulkier items but makes a great second bag or for those who like to travel a little lighter.


Travelon Anti Theft Metro Crossbody Bag

Travelon: Anti-Theft Metro Crossbody Bag - Navy Heather
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The METRO crossbody bag is perfectly sized for travel with a modern take on the classic design.

Loaded with anti-theft features such as slash proof shell and strap and lockable zippers, it also includes a removable RFID air mesh pouch for cards, ID, and cash.

Travelon: Anti-Theft Metro Crossbody Bag - Navy Heather

The main locking zipper section has two drop pockets, an interior sleeve to hold a water bottle or umbrella and a zippered RFID pocket. There’s even a tethered key clip with led light.

The exterior has a rear zippered pocket for frequently used items. The front has two zippered pockets, one which locks for added security.


Travelon Anti Theft Courier Saddle Crossbody Bag

Travelon: Anti-Theft Courier Saddle Crossbody Bag - Navy
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Leaning towards a more traditional ladies handbag design; the Travelon anti-theft Courier Saddle crossbody is perfect for when you only want to carry the essentials but still need a versatile travel handbag.

The curved shape sits nicely against the body and the soft finish with quality leather accents mean it works equally well for sightseeing as it does heading out for dinner.



Baggallini Everywhere bag with RFID

Baggallini Women's Everywhere Bagg with RFID, Apple
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It is surprising this bag lacks some of the anti-theft features of Pacsafe and Travelon crossbody bags because it is a very well thought out and practical bag for travel.

Designed with travel in mind; this popular crossbody bag has features such as a luggage handle slip on the back and the lightweight, water-resistant material that ensures durability and comfort.

Baggallini Women's Everywhere Bagg with RFID, Apple

The classic, modern design has loads of practical organisational pockets and compartments with convenient access points, and a removable RFID blocking phone wristlet keeps your personal information safe from being scanned and stolen.

Related: THE PERFECT WOMEN’S TRAVEL PURSE COMBO – BAGGALLINI BACKPACK & CROSSBODY PURSE REVIEW


Pacsafe Women’s Daysafe Slim Crossbody Bag

Pacsafe Daysafe Anti-Theft Slim Crossbody Bag Baked Apple One Size
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The Pacsafe Daysafe Anti-Theft Slim Crossbody Bag is perfect for those who want a simple handbag that is safe and low key.

It has all the best anti-theft features such as slash-proof shell and straps, locking zippers and RFID protection.

The bag maintains a slim profile but still has plenty of room for daily essentials with lockable exterior pockets and two interior pockets including credit card slots and a padded slip for electronics.

For those who require a larger travel purse, this would make a great second travel handbag for dinners etc. as it is small and packs flat.


Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Square Anti Theft Crossbody Bag

PacSafe Women's Citysafe CX 3.2L Anti Theft Square Crossbody, Black, 3.2 Liter
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Also voted by Travel & Leisure as one of the best small crossbody bags, this anti-theft crossbody bag for travel boasts design features of a sophisticated ladies handbag.

The slash proof outer fabric has an elegant satin look finish, and the feature clasp acts as the locking system for the zip closure.

The small flat bottom profile allows for enough room for daily essentials plus a large smartphone or Kindle. RFID safe pocket keeps cards safe from unauthorised scanning.

A lovely crossbody bag for city travel or a second bag for travel at night.


Unisex and Mens Crossbody Bags

Travelon Origin Anti Theft Slim Bag Silvadur Treated

Travelon Origin-Anti-Theft-Slim Bag-SILVADUR Treated, Driftwood, One_Size
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This unisex slim bag from Travelon’s New Origin line has a great urban modern look that sits well on both men and women. Along with Travelon’s 5 point anti-theft system, you have loads of room in a compact bag. 

There are lots of organisational pockets, including a large flap covered front slip pocket and quick access rear slip pocket. The main compartment will fit tablets up to 9.7″ and has slip pockets, zippered pocket and a tethered key clip. 

Two key features of this line are the Silvadur Intelligent Antimicrobial Protection in the fabric. Also, the bag is made from sustainable certified recycled RPET material for a lighter, more durable travel bag and a 40-50% less carbon footprint. It comes in 2 colour designs – all black or driftwood and black.


Travelon Unisex Anti Theft Active Tour Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Active Tour Bag, Teal, 9 x 11 x 3.5
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The Travelon Anti-Theft Active Daypack is designed to suit both men and women in all travel situations, from city exploration to active travel.


Travelon Anti-Theft Unisex Heritage Tour Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Tour Bag, Indigo, 9 x 11.5 x 3
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A versatile unisex crossbody bag perfect for travel and everyday use.

Made with durable cotton canvas; the design features suede trim, matte nickel hardware and classic pinstriped lining which lends a stylish casual look for both men and women.


Travelon Unisex Urban Crossbody Messenger Bag

Travelon Sling Bag, Slate, One_Size
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The Anti-Theft Urban North South Messenger Bag for men has all of Travelon’s anti-theft features – slash proof outer fabric, cut-proof crossbody strap, RFID blocking and locking zippers.

Designed to sit comfortably on the shoulder even when fully loaded; the spacious main compartment has room for a small laptop, iPad or tablet.

The interior has a zippered mesh pocket and an organisation compartment with RFID card and passport slots. An outer mesh expansion pocket is large enough to hold a water bottle.

The add–a–bag strap enables you to hook it over a luggage handle for easy carrying when in transit.

A very practical travel bag for men, especially those who travel with a lot of tech. The design would also suit women although smaller women may find the bag a little long.


Ozuko Anti Theft Crossbody Sling Bag With USB Charger

Sling Bag for Men Shoulder Crossbody Backpack Waterproof Sling Backpack with USB Charging Port Anti Theft Chest Pack Bag Casual Daypack Fit 9.7 Inch Ipad (Black)
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A versatile men’s crossbody sling bag, this bag is that perfect in-between size when you want something larger than a fanny pack but not quite a messenger bag.

The Ozuko bag has lots of interior organisational pockets and some good anti theft features, including an anti-theft lock on the main dual-access zipper compartment as well as a hidden zip pocket in the padded back panel. There is also an internal zip pocket.

The waterproof bag is comfortable to wear with adjustable straps and a breathable decompression carrying system. An inbuilt USB charger and charging cable make it easy to charge your phone while on the go. Comes in 5 colour designs.


See our top pick for the Best Men’s Travel Jackets. We’ve rounded up stylish and practical travel jackets with hidden pockets for extra safety.


Crossbody Bags Buying Guides

What is a Crossbody Bag?

Before deciding on the best crossbody bags for travel, let’s look at what an across the body travel bag is and what features you should consider when buying one.

A crossbody bag is usually a smaller bag, often a messenger style or bucket bag style. It will have a single, long, adjustable strap slung across the body from one shoulder, so the bag sits at the hip on one side. The design makes it fashionable but also easy to carry and access.

A sling backpack or sling bag can also fall into the category. These also cross the body from one shoulder. However, the bag usually sits on your back instead of the side of your torso or hip.

Both bags are versatile for day to day use and travel. However, the sling pack style of travel bag can be less convenient or accessible, especially if they are tight. They can also be more vulnerable to pickpockets as they are more exposed while sitting on your back, especially in crowded tourist areas.

What Features Should a Good Crossbody Bag Have?

Let’s look at what features you should consider when buying an across the body travel bag.

  • Comfort: The bag should be comfortable enough to be worn all day without cutting into your shoulder. Straps should easily adjust to suit your body style. 
  • Size: Choose a size large enough for your requirements but not so large you risk overloading it and in turn, overloading yourself.
  • Weight: Look for durable yet lightweight crossbody bag construction. You don’t want a bag that is heavy before you have even put anything in it.
  • Material: Look for a waterproof cross body travel bag or at least one with water-resistant materials. It will be more stain-resistant and will keep your belongings safe from rain. The material must also be durable because travel can be tough on your luggage, you want your bag to last.
  • Pocket Configuration and Compartments: Look at what compartments and pockets you need. Do you need a padded sleeve for a tablet or laptop, pockets for coins and cards, external pockets for a water bottle or travel umbrella? Remember, while some bags will have loads of pockets as a selling point – more is not always best. Pockets should fit what you need.
  • Zip Closures: Avoid bags with wide or gaping openings that don’t close securely. All compartments and openings should have zips or other secure closures. 
  • Features: What features do you need in a travel bag? Aside from design and functionality, one of the most popular features in a good travel bag these days is anti-theft features.

Anti Theft Crossbody Travel Bags

Crossbody bags, in particular crossbody bags for women, were some of the first styles of travel bags designed with full anti-theft features.

When choosing any bag for travel, our advice would always be to look for one with at least some anti-theft features. 

The best anti-theft crossbody bags will have what some manufacturers refer to as “5–Point anti-theft features”: 

  • Slash-resistant straps.
  • Locking compartments.
  • Slash-resistant body panels or outer fabric. 
  • Lockdown hardware.
  • RFID blocking to prevent identity theft. 

Not all anti-theft bags will have all of these features but should have at least a few. Make sure if a bag claims to be anti-theft, you check the features carefully. Some will make this claim based solely on an internal pocket.

TIP

Whether you opt for an anti-theft travel bag or just a regular bag, never trust all your valuables to one bag. 

Only carry what cash and cards you need for the day. Make use of other anti-theft travel products for keeping cash hidden on your person or valuables safe in your hotel or hostel. 

You can find great tips on staying safe while you travel and guides to all the best anti-theft travel gear in our Safe Travel Guide.  


What to Consider When Buying a Bag for Travel

When comparing the myriad of crossbody bags available for travel, think about the type of travel you will be doing, what you need to be carrying, and what kind of compartments and features you will need.
The bag must be practical for the purpose, suit your needs, and you must like wearing it.

When choosing a bag for travel, consider the following:

  • Where will you be travelling to? Do you need a bag that will transition from city sightseeing to dinner? Or, do you need a bag that is equally practical for day hikes as it is for city sightseeing?
  • What do you need to carry? – Think carefully about the size of the bag you need and the pocket configuration. Too small could be a problem. Too large could become a burden.
    • Will you be carrying a large camera, laptop, or tablet?
    • Will the weather be changeable, and you may need to carry gloves, a hat or even a spare top.
    • Will you be travelling with children?
    • Do you want a bag only for the small essentials – money, glasses, phone etc.? 
  • Do you only have the capacity for one bag for all occasions, or do you have space for a second, smaller evening bag? 
  • Do you have any physical or medical conditions that may determine the style or size of the bag you can comfortably carry for long periods?

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