Are you looking for a travel bag? Perhaps you are hoping for stylish, affordable options, like a cute and practical purse. We’ve rounded up a list for varying budgets to help you find the best travel purses, from the ideal lightweight bags to other versatile options. Why, may you ask?
We’ve assembled these bags—eighteen to be exact—because they’re what will accompany you on all your travels. It’s one of the most important things you’ll take along, so you must find the right one! But this is where it gets tricky… With many different options, the best travel purse can take a while to narrow down.
Your options may be limitless, but it all comes down to the type of traveler you are. Safety always comes first in any bag you pick, but there are other things to consider. For example, if you’re a frequent traveler, the bag’s weight plays a significant role because you don’t want to be lugging all your belongings in an oversized one.
You can also look at the number of pockets, the style, and the affordability. Conversely, if you only travel occasionally and you’re looking for something more sturdy, maybe a backpack purse would interest you!
No matter your circumstances, if you are looking for a new travel bag to take with you, we’ve narrowed down the best travel purses out there and categorized them by different styles and needs.
Best Travel Purse by Category
- Best anti-theft purse: Travelon Anti-Theft Bag
- Best lightweight travel purse: Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100
- Best crossbody option: Baggallini Everywhere
- Best messenger-style bag: Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
- Best convertible bag: Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Crossbody Bags
- Most versatile bag for travel: Baggallini Pocket Travel Purse
- Most stylish bag for travel: Kate Spade New York Carlyle Pebbled Leather Large Tote
- Most practical yet fancy travel purse: Tumi Alpha 3 Crossbody Bag
The Best Travel Purses
Now that you know what to expect, it’s time to dive into the nitty gritty. Below you’ll find a breakdown of the best travel purses on the market, including various options that can be organized into different categories based on the traveler’s needs.
For instance, lightweight bags, and small ones—not all of us have the arms to lug around laptop cases and carpet bags!—splurge-worthy purses… You name it!
They all come with their perks, after all. Check out this list of your new favorite bags below!
1. Baggallini Everywhere
Rain or shine, your bag shouldn’t keep you from continuing your journey. The Baggallini Everywhere bag is the perfect travel companion if you are looking for a lightweight option.
The travel purse also has the added advantage of being waterproof. In addition to keeping your phone and other valuables safe, the shoulder bag also comes with an RFID-resistant wallet. This provides an added layer of security and is better than stuffing your wallet into the outer compartments of the bag.
For travelers with many knick-knacks to take with them on their travels, the Baggallini Everywhere bag comes with many small pockets for your things. There is a small compartment for your water bottle and umbrella. The bag comes in many different colors, too!
Pros:
- Waterproof
- RFID-resistant wallet included
- Compartment for your water bottle and umbrella
Cons:
- Zipper opens into large space, which is not what all travelers are looking for
Where to buy: Amazon, Baggallini, Walmart
2. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
If you are a traveler who likes to carry the essentials, the Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag is just what you need. This stylish, unisex lightweight bag is the perfect accessory to your travel attire. It has a short strap and can be worn as a crossbody.
The Timbuk2 bag has a padded flap to secure your belongings, a Napoleon-style side pocket, and a compartment for your water bottle. The inside of the bag has an internal organizer that can fit everything from your laptop to your pens and passport.
Like the previous bag, the outer flap on the Timbuk2 Messenger bag is waterproof, meaning extra protection for your things. The bag comes in a number of different colors, and you have three sizes to choose from depending on your needs.
Pros:
- Stylish
- Unisex style
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
Cons:
- Small, but still convenient!
Where to buy: Amazon, Timbuk2, Walmart, REI, Nordstrom, eBay
See related: Best Travel Duffel Bags For Your Next Trip
3. Travelon Anti-Theft Bag
A lightweight purse isn’t for everyone when it comes to carry-on options. This lightweight backpack offers both comfort and style for all tastes.
Say hello to the Travelon Anti-Theft bag. This is the perfect travel companion on those full-day sightseeing trips and offers just enough space to fit all the essentials.
The Travelon anti-theft shoulder bag has a main locking compartment and side pockets to fit smaller items. In addition to this, the bag provides added protection with an RFID-blocking card and a slash-resistant body strap.
This means you don’t have to worry so much about the safety of your items on your travels! This stylish Travelon anti-theft travel purse is perfect for your chic travel attire.
Pros:
- Main locking compartment
- Side pockets for smaller items
- RFID-blocking card
- Slash-resistant body strap
Cons:
- Too small for most laptops
Where to buy: Amazon, Travelon, Walmart, Travelon, eBay
4. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100
Another great lightweight and small bag is the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100. If you enjoy traveling through Europe, this tiny bag is just what you need to blend right in. In addition to being extremely lightweight, this bag is a popular anti-theft option.
While this travel purse is smaller than the other ones on this list thus far, it has some great features and packs in all the essentials: your phone, charger, and passport. Its theft-protection features include slash-proof fabric, locking zippers, and an RFID-blocking pocket.
Many tourist-centric cities are known for their high level of theft. The small Pacsafe bag with all its security and safety features, is ideal for traveling in these busy cities.
Pros:
- Lightweight and small
- Excellent anti-theft features
- Layers of zippers
- Comes in a variety of colors
Cons:
- Too small for some travel needs (depends on the person!)
Where to buy: Amazon, Walmart, REI, Pacsafe, eBay
5. Peak Gear Crossbody Bag
The Peak Gear Crossbody Bag is perfect for travelers who like to travel light. This unisex bag has an anti-theft design, one of the most important elements in any travel bag.
The pockets on the inside and the outside come with RFID-blocking tags for that added layer of protection. One of its main features includes a lifetime recovery service tag that allows you to track the bag when misplaced.
This small bag is great for the essentials, your wallet, passport, and charger but is big enough to fit an iPad. The straps are adjustable, and the outer layer is waterproof as well. This multi-purpose bag can also be used daily to run errands. The bag also comes at an affordable price point.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- RFID-blocking tags in pockets
- Multi-purpose for day-to-day errands
- Affordability
Cons:
- Not many options for organization
- No top grip
See related: Essential Travel Safety Tips for Trips
6. Leather Crossbody Bag
A leather bag isn’t the first choice for the best travel purses, but these cross body bags add a certain style element to any attire. This leather crossbody bag by Estalon is the perfect travel companion if you take just the essentials.
Leather bags can match almost any outfit, so you don’t need to switch bags to match every outfit. This bag has a slim strap and a double zipper, for your convenience. Likewise, nomads use this as a travel purse because of its bigger compartment that can be used for your small iPad, wallet, and passport, and the smaller outer, zipper pocket that can be used for your phone.
There are various colors, but black and brown are the classics. This small but compact bag is all you need for your travels across the globe.
Pros:
- Matches nearly any outfit
- Small and compact, convenient pockets, some with zippers
- Comes in a variety of colors
Cons:
- Very slim (a pro or a con, depending on your preference)
- Long zipper, chances to snag
Where to buy: Amazon, Walmart, eBay
7. Baggallini Pocket Travel Purse
Another compact and practical option is the Baggallini Pocket travel purse. The bag comes in a unique, modern shape and features tons of pockets for all your essentials. It is made of nylon material and is great to take on the go.
The interior of the bag features a pocket for almost everything. There are five slots for your credit cards and an interior zip for miscellaneous items. The best part about the pocket travel purse is that it is machine washable, so you can toss it straight into the machine after your travels.
The bag has an RFID phone wristlet for your credit cards and ID. It is water-resistant, and you have 24 styles and colors. Baggillini bags are known for their durability, so this is a great investment!
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Multiple card slots and pockets
- RFID-blocking pockets in its accompanying wristlet
- Known to be durable
Cons:
- Its unique shape may limit some of what you’re able to carry
Where to buy: Amazon, Baggallini
8. Notag Crossbody Bag
If you consider yourself an adventure enthusiast, you want a bag that won’t hinder your travels. The Notag Crossbody Bag is the perfect carry-on to take with you on hikes or extreme adventures. It’s also waterproof, so your things will be safe and sound.
The bag has a polyester lining and classic zippers that make it easy to open and close. The exterior of the crossover has a number of small pockets which makes it compartmentalize your things for better access.
The Notag bag is perfect for travel and everyday use. It can be worn as a handbag, a crossover bag, or a shoulder bag. This cross-functional bag is a must-have for frequent travelers.
Pros:
- Handy for active travel, such as hiking
- Cross-functional strap
- Waterproof
- Affordability
Cons:
- Fabric may stain (noticeable on lighter colors)
See related: Best Camera Bags for Travel
9. Dora & Liz Convertible Travel Purse
If you are looking for a bigger yet affordable bag, the Dora & Liz Convertible travel purse is perfect. The bag can be worn as a tote or backpack, so you can opt for either, depending on your destination. This shoulder bag has an adjustable strap, making it easier to transition the bag.
The inside of the bag comes with numerous pockets for your things. The card slots inner zipper pocket are also equipped with RFID tags and are made of anti-theft and anti-theft material. An exterior locking pocket is also a great place to put all your essential items. The bag also makes for a great gym or work tote when you’re not traveling.
Pros:
- Adjustable strap
- Unisex style
- RFID-blocking technology
- Very roomy
Cons:
- Not large enough to fit all laptops, but certainly large enough for some
Where to buy: Amazon, Ubuy, eBay
See related: Best Wheeled Garment Bags for Travel
10. CLUCI Backpack Purse
If crossbody bags aren’t your thing, backpack travel purses are an excellent alternative. If you are looking for classic mini shoulder bag or a travel-friendly backpack, the CLUCI bag is a great choice. The bag is water-resistant PU leather and metal accessories that add style.
The bag also includes numerous compartments, which are great for holding everything from your laptop, books, passport, wallet, and water bottle. It’s lightweight and easy to carry everywhere, whether as a backpack or a single shoulder bag; a detachable strap lets you do both.
If you take the CLUCI backpack as a carry-on on your flight, the strap on the back of the bag can be attached to your luggage.
Pros:
- Big enough to fit a multitude of travel necessities
- Lightweight
- Can be sized as a carry-on and attached to your luggage without a problem
- Water-resistant
Cons:
- Straps can be slightly uncomfortable, and maneuverability when removing can be difficult
Where to buy: Amazon, Walmart, eBay
11. Tumi Alpha 3 Crossbody Bag
The Tumi Alpha 3 is a traveler’s favorite because it perfectly blends luxury and practicality. This is known as one of the best crossbody bags since it’s made from a lightweight Nylon material with a high-quality fabric lining. It has a full zipper and a side zipper for easy access to your items: the bag’s interior has pockets for almost everything, including a small tablet or iPad.
The Tumi crossbody bags have a detachable strap and a detachable key ring that you can monogram. In addition to being stylish, this bag is also known for its durability.
Likewise, this travel purse can be worn for everyday use. Although the bag is definitely on the more expensive side, it is certainly worth the price tag.
Pros:
- Detachable crossbody strap, as well as a detachable key ring
- Full and side zipper
- Practical and lightweight while remaining stylish
- Can fit a small tablet or iPad
Cons:
- Expensive, but worth the investment
Where to buy: Amazon, Walmart, eBay
See related: Best Vacation Planners & Templates for Your Next Trip
12. Kate Spade New York Large Tote Bag
If you want your bag to have enough room for everything, a tote travel purse is a great choice. A reigning favorite among many luxurious travelers is the Kate Spade New York Large Tote bag, known for its durability and style.
The bag is leather and has a magnetic snap enclosure for extra protection. The bag’s main compartment is roomy and provides enough space for essentials.
There is also an inner pocket for smaller items. The Kate Spade New York shoulder bags also come in different sizes, so you can go for a smaller one if you prefer something more compact.
Pros:
- Roomy interior
- Plenty of inner pockets
- Durable
- Stylish
- Available in various sizes
Cons:
- May stain easily (depends on your color of choice)
- Expensive, but worth the investment
Where to buy: Amazon, Kate Spade, Walmart, Nordstrom, eBay
13. Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Crossbody Bags
Another great tote bag option is the Pacsafe Citysafe Cx Convertible Crossbody Bags. Like the previous one, this bag is incredibly durable and provides lots of room for your items.
The Pacsafe tote is also known for its anti-theft quality, which is important for any traveler. The bag comes with a number of pockets, including a lockable zip, a hidden pocket, and dual pockets.
The shoulder strap of the bag also has Carrysafe technology, including RFID protection. This ensures that your personal information, such as your ID or passport details, is not in the wrong hands.
The Pacsafe bag also has slash guard wiring, adding an extra protection layer. You can get this bag in three different shades. It’s one of the best travel purses in the market in terms of quality and style.
Pros:
- Convertible
- Internal slash-guard wiring
- Lockable zip
- Hidden pockets
- Available in multiple colors
Cons:
- Front pocket may pucker when zippered
Where to buy: Amazon, Pacsafe, Walmart, eBay
See related: The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List
14. Lululemon Festival Travel Bag
The Lululemon Festival Bag is perfect for the summer travel season. This can be considered a travel purse as it is incredibly compact but offers enough room for all your essentials; for example, it has multiple pockets for smaller things and an adjustable strap for extra comfort. You can even change up the size of the strap to wear the bag as a fanny pack or a crossbody!
Some of the bag’s key features include its water-resistant fabric, which makes it easy to clean. The wide zipper provides easy access to your things, and the overhead flap ensures your items remain safe even if you overstuff the bag. On top of that, the small exterior pocket can store your phone or wallet for easy access, so when you tuck your things away, you’ll be able to retrieve them without effort.
Pros:
- Adjustable strap
- Water-resistant fabric
- Accessible pockets
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- May provide limited space for travelers looking to carry larger items
Where to buy: Amazon, Lululemon, eBay
See related: Best Travel Toiletry Bags
15. PINCNEL Backpack Purse
The PINCNEL Backpack Purse is a bag you can wear as a crossbody bag, a shoulder bag, or a backpack. You can remove the adjustable shoulder strap to quickly switch from a tote to a backpack during the day.
The bag has a hidden pocket that keeps your valuables safe from thieves. On top of that, you can use it for longer because it is well-made and feels good.
This stylish purse is made of durable and waterproof nylon and PU leather. It won’t hurt your back or shoulders even if you wear it all day. It has a double zipper, which makes it easy to open and close, but it has a clever, reverse-zippered design, classifying it as one of the anti-theft bags.
It has a lot of pockets for things like cell phones, documents, and more. It also has a zippered pocket on the back side, two zippered pockets on the front, and side pockets on the outside.
Pros:
- Plenty of pockets, inside and out, including hidden ones
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Well-made
- Switches from a tote to a backpack
Cons:
- Although it’s a backpack, it may not be as roomy as the other bags
16. MyMealivos Canvas Weekender Bag
This stylish travel purse isn’t too flashy but has enough pockets and nooks to stop even the worst over-packer. It can be a carry-on or a shoulder bag. With MyMealivos Canvas Weekender Bag, traveling, going on long weekends, carrying on, and going on day trips are all more accessible.
The inside has lots of pockets. The bottom compartment has even slip pockets for more room for the little things you can’t bear to leave behind and even a shoe compartment. Also, you can keep the bag open or closed with the top-mounted frame opening.
In addition to weekend gear, it also has room for additional garments. However, the bag’s greatest asset is its adaptability. Whether flying or driving, this bag is perfect for a fast weekend getaway or as carry-on luggage for a longer trip.
Pros:
- Works as a shoulder bag
- Has countless pockets
- Adaptable and convenient for both short and long trips
- Has plenty of room for clothes, if needed
Cons:
- Amongst the largest of the bags (provides even a shoe compartment), so it could be overly bulky depending on what you pack
Where to buy: Amazon, Walmart, eBay
See related: Warm Winter Backpacking Destinations
17. Sakroots Large Smartphone Crossbody Purse
With this slim canvas clutch, which can also be used as a stylish wallet, you can carry things without using your hands. This would be ideal while traveling. This is a must-have accessory because it has zip pockets for your phone and passport and room for your cards and other things you need for a night out.
Even though it’s small, the Sakroots Necessities clutch is the stylish wristlet mini wallet you’ve been waiting for if you like to travel light. As a wallet, it has a wrist strap and an adjustable crossbody strap. It also has a snap closure and two zippered pockets to make it easier.
This clutch travel purse with adjustable straps is available in four colors: rainbow spirit desert, black flower power, navy floral spirit, and slate floral blossoms.
Pros:
- Stylish and small, but comes with an adjustable crossbody strap
- Comes in a multitude of colors
- Provides zip pockets for your documents
- No need to use your hands
Cons:
- The colors are bold, which can be a pro or a con depending on your tastes
- Sides may be slightly rigid
Where to buy: Amazon, Sakroots, Walmart, eBay
18. BROMEN Vegan Leather Shoulder Bags
The BROMEN Vegan Leather Shoulder Bag is a travel purse with vegan leather accents and a boho-designed adjustable shoulder strap. It may look small from the outside, but the inside is actually quite big.
Two large pockets on the inside can hold a lot of things. It could fit long cords, a phone charger, and some other small electrical items in one of the pockets.
This can also be converted as a shoulder bag and has many modern features, like extra-wide top zippers, straps that can be used as a trolley handle, and deep zip pockets inside.
Pros:
- Adjustable strap
- Small on the outside, roomy on the inside!
- Provides extra-wide zippers
- Deep zippered pockets
Cons:
- Bag can be somewhat stiff when new
- May be bulky depending on contents
Where to buy: Amazon, Bromen, Walmart, eBay
See related: Best Minimalist Travel Backpacks & Bags for Trips
How to Find the Best Travel Purse
So, what makes the best travel purse such a big deal when it comes down to it? Why do you need to pick something reliable, something specific to your needs? When all is said and done, what is a travel purse? It all comes down to a bag that covers your needs.
First and foremost, a travel purse should safely carry everything you need. That means pockets for your documents, zippers, anti-theft measures—you name it. The most crucial part of finding your ideal bag is ascertaining you can carry your belongings easily, with stress-free accessibility and safety measures.
Types and Functions
Of course, just as there are different kinds of travelers, there are different purses. As mentioned before, it all depends on what you need from your bag—so if you’re more comfortable with a handheld tote or a crossbody, that differentiation matters.
Totes, for example, are usually larger, with limited fasteners. You’ll carry it on your shoulder, and your belongings will slip easily into it, which makes it great for shopping or short trips. However, you may lose the benefit of zippered security.
Crossbody bags or fanny packs are super convenient for those who don’t want to immediately focus on their purse’s location or even its safety; you can sling them over your shoulder or around your waist, and they’re largely secure, with zippers and pockets to serve as additional perks. These might be a good option for hikers or active travelers.
Other types of purses include backpacks, which are better for distributing the weight of what you’re carrying (good for carrying laptops, sneakers, and more!), as well as small, convenient wristlets and messenger bags, which are similar to crossbodies.
| Type of Travel Bag | Name | Perks | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight | Baggallini Everywhere | Lightweight, waterproof, with compartments for convenience | $80 |
| Small | Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100 | Slash-proof fabric, locking zippers, and an RFID-blocking pocket | $75-80 |
| Splurge-worthy | Tumi Alpha 3 Crossbody Bag | Detachable crossbody strap, practical while stylish, can fit a small tablet | $425 |
| Stylish | Kate Spade New York Large Tote Bag | Durable, stylish, and comes in multiple sizes | $175 |
| Anti-theft | Travelon Anti-Theft Bag | Main locking compartment, RFID-blocking card, slash-resistant strap | $45-50 |
User Stories
So, you’ve looked at all the options awaiting you as the best travel purse; now it’s time to see which fits. Why not check out some user stories? The best way to narrow down your next favorite bag is by word of mouth.
For instance, according to reviewers who purchased the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100, it’s a great bag to protect your must-haves. Amazon buyer Terry Leonard says:
“My recent purchase is my second shoulder bag from Pacsafe. I carried the first purse all over the world for many years and loved everything about it. The design is compact yet it has a great deal of safe storage.”
What else? The Peak Gear Crossbody Bag, whose reviewers claimed it’s “not bulky, but not tiny,” nears five stars on Amazon. Reviewer KT says:
“[This bag] is perfect for carrying my phone, wallet, medicine, and other things that I need when I am out and about. The fabric is sturdy, and it is very well made. It is being advertised as a men’s bag, but it can be used by anyone.”
Finally, if you’re looking for something that’s spacious, durable, and showcases an ergonomic design, check out the MyMealivos Weekender Bag. Reviewer S. Martinez says:
“Honestly, I love this bag! It’s so roomy I fit like 3 or 4 pairs of shoes in the bottom part and then the top part I fit everything I needed for a 3 week trip. It is really amazing! Highly recommend.”
So, what are you waiting for? Sooner or later, you’ll be writing these reviews yourself. Happy shopping!
See related: Best Travel Bags for Suits
FAQ
What are the main features of the best travel purses?
Many travel purses ought to be anti-theft. Some, like the one from Pacsafe, have an anti-slash weave and hidden pockets. Something made of leather or faux is a good choice, because they’re more durable and those with RFID-blocking technology.
How do RFID-blocking purses protect my information?
RFID, or radio-frequency identification, relies on magnetization. Thus, when that magnetization is blocked, your personal data is safe.
RFID-blocking technology is, at its core, a signal blocker. It blocks radio waves that come between your cards, identifying documents, and other such devices that might be hacked into and stolen from in a skimming attack.
What is the overall best kind of travel purse?
The best kind among travel purses is a fanny pack or a crossbody bag because they are attached to your body. When going to a new, unfamiliar place, it is important to have straps that won’t get cut, zippers that won’t come undone, and strong fabrics.
What’s the safest type of purse to travel with?
To ensure your everyday purse and its contents are safe, Dora & Liz Convertible Travel Purse includes a number of safeguards. It’s made of tough, reinforced nylon that’s both flexible and durable. Its water-resistant coating also protects the surface from damage caused by exposure to the weather, and for increased security, special fabric panels with RFID-blocking technology were included inside key pockets.
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