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The 11 Best Travel Purses of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your belongings at your side with these T+L-approved travel purses.

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at Travel + Leisure where she tests, researches, and writes about travel products. Since living overseas in 2018, Anna has been a travel writer and began reviewing products in 2021.

best travel purse for woman

In This Article

Jump to a Section

  • Our top picks
  • Other Purses We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Organization while traveling is key, so we recommend having one designated spot for storing travel essentials like a passport, money, and technology. While you can store these items in a bigger bag en route to your destination, a more portable bag like a purse, mini backpack, or sling bag may be a better option.

We consulted our Travel + Leisure staff as well as other industry experts across our team to get recommendations for travel purses that are tried and true by frequent fliers. We received  submissions from over 30 seasoned travelers for bags they've used anywhere from six months to over four years all around the globe. We selected 11 purses that received the highest praise and broke down why we think you’ll love them, too.

Best Overall

Lo & sons o.g. 2.

Lo & Sons

  • Capacity 5 /5
  • Portability 5 /5
  • Ease of Use 5 /5

The large purse has a pocket for every travel essential you could ever need to pack.

It can get heavy when it’s packed full.

Lo & Sons makes some of our favorite travel bags, so it’s no surprise that this one came highly recommended for its spacious capacity and superior organizational features. The large shoulder bag comes with a padded laptop pocket that can store and protect devices up to 13 inches long, or you can place a laptop up to 16 inches in the main compartment, but it won’t be in the padded section.

For any other travel essentials, this bag has you covered with plenty of small pockets in the main section of the bag for phone chargers and snacks, and there’s a water bottle pocket to stay hydrated on the go. The front zippered pocket has smaller pockets inside to store grab-and-go items like a phone, wallet, and passport. Best of all, the bag has a discrete side pocket for a pair of shoes when you're using it as an overnight bag. And, of course, the more you pack the nylon bag, the heavier it will get, but it does have a trolley sleeve for securing it to a suitcase if it feels cumbersome to carry.

The Details: 16.5 x 13.75 x 6.75 inches | Nylon, Nappa leather | Water resistant | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Overall, Runner-up

Cheruty backpack purse.

The stylish backpack has a modular design so you can carry it three ways.

The anti-theft design makes it less convenient to grab items.

Versatility is key with a travel purse, so we love that this backpack purse can be carried in multiple ways. While the purse is designed for use as a backpack with the built-in backpack straps, it also has a top handle and removable crossbody strap to convert the style as desired. Our favorite part of the backpack is the anti-theft design featuring a main compartment that is only accessible from the back zipper. There is a front zippered pocket to store small items like lip balm or a phone charger and the interior has four zippered and slip pockets for staying organized. The anti-theft design makes it a little less convenient to grab items quickly, but it offers peace of mind in crowded spaces since it’s much more difficult for pickpocketing to occur. This bag also earned praise for being effortlessly stylish thanks to the sleek faux leather look over two dozen color options.

The Details: 12.6 x 5.9 x 12.6 inches | PU leather | Convertible | 9.7-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote

The nylon material is super lightweight and easy to wipe-clean on the go.

It doesn’t have a top zipper.

Looking for a purse that’s easy to pack? Quince’s nylon tote bag is impressively lightweight whether you’re toting it around while sightseeing or packing it away in a bigger suitcase. While we love a leather bag, nylon material can be a safer option for travel since it’s easy to spot-clean with some soap and water on the go, and is typically lighter so it won’t weigh down your shoulder when packed full of the essentials. This tote’s interior has designated pockets for a laptop and water bottle, and various slip and zippered pockets to organize smaller items. For security reasons, it would be nice if the bag had a zip-top instead of a magnetic closure, but the slim design of the bag makes it easy to keep it close to you while traveling. The tote also has two exterior slip pockets and it comes in Oxford blue, olive, and black color options.

The Details: 17 x 13 x 7 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Shoulder Bag

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

  • Capacity 2 /5

The nylon bag is easy to compress and pack down for excellent portability.

It’s not big enough to store tablets or laptops.

Crescent bags are a bit more stylish than a traditional fanny pack, but the style offers similar security to a sling bag that rests on the upper body. The simplicity of this Uniqlo shoulder bag makes it an excellent choice for travelers in search of a packable bag to store the essentials. It’s big enough to carry a phone, wallet, passport, or other smaller items, but it isn’t large enough to hold laptops or tablets. If you need to consolidate your personal belongings before getting on an airplane, this nylon bag compresses down and can be folded up to seamlessly fit in a backpack or carry-on. The water-resistant bag is also machine washable and comes in seven earthy colors. And, the purse is the most affordable option on this list if you can’t choose just one color.

The Details: 11 x 7 x 3.9 inches | Nylon | Water resistant

Travel + Leisure / Abigail Moore

Best Fanny Pack

Dagne dover ace fanny pack.

Dagne Dover

  • Quality 5 /5
  • Capacity 4 /5

The spacious fanny pack is made with durable and waterproof neoprene fabric.

Dirt and dust are easily attracted to the fabric.

If you’re traveling somewhere damp or rainy, you’ll want a purse made of waterproof materials to protect your belongings. This Dagne Dover fanny pack is made with the brand’s signature neoprene material that wards off inclement weather and rough handling thanks to the thick cushion of the fabric. While we love the protective material, it is prone to catching dust and dirt, but it can be easily spot-cleaned so it isn’t a deal-breaker by any means. The interior is big enough to fit phones, wallets, eReaders, and sunglasses with plenty of room to spare, but it isn’t so large that it feels bulky to wear. The nylon strap can be adjusted to wear the fanny pack comfortably around the waist and shoulder or as a crossbody sling bag, which is ideal for versatility while traveling or running errands. There are several slip pockets and a zippered one in the front to store and organize small items and the fanny pack comes in six color options.

The Details: 9.25 x 5.5 x 2.75 inches | Neoprene | Water resistant

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Crossbody

Baggallini everywhere bagg.

The lightweight materials and adjustable crossbody strap offer all-day comfort.

The interior could benefit from a divider to separate the spacious compartment.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is travel expert-endorsed largely due to the fact that it offers superior comfort compared to other crossbody bags on the market. The entire bag and strap are made of a lightweight nylon fabric that won’t rub or dig when it’s being worn across the body or as a shoulder bag. Large enough to fit an iPad or tablet, the purse has an impressive capacity for storing everything from the bare necessities like a wallet and keys to tech gadgets for air travel. The medium-size purse is chock full of pockets on the inside and outside, and there’s even a discrete side pocket for easy access to phones or wallets. The main compartment has a pocket for tablets and a few small slip pockets, but we wish there was a divider or more pockets to prevent items from getting lost in the bottom of the bag. We also love that there is a trolley sleeve in the back and the bag comes with an RFID-blocking removable wristlet as a thoughtful touch.

The Details: 11 x 9 x 5 inches | Nylon | Water resistant

Best Clutch

Radley london sundown avenue weave medium flapover clutch.

Radley London

  • Capacity 3 /5
  • Comfort 5 /5

The compact purse can be worn as a crossbody bag or carried as a clutch.

The chain strap is not adjustable.

For travel looks that require a chic purse to complete the outfit, we recommend this convertible clutch from Radley London. It’s made with high-quality genuine leather with a woven design and elegant gold hardware that gives the purse a truly elevated design. And for the best part: it comes with a removable chain to style the purse as a crossbody or carry it as a clutch for upscale events like weddings or fancy dinners. The chain strap is effortlessly chic, but we wish it was adjustable or slightly longer since the shorter chain is a bit awkward to use with the bag. The size is small enough to fit in a backpack or suitcase, and the magnetic-closing bag can fit various small items like lipstick, credit cards, and a phone.

The Details: 11 x 6 x 4 inches | Leather | Detachable chain strap

Best Packable

Longchamp le pliage original backpack.

The backpack can fold up to a fraction of its original size.

It doesn’t offer any pockets for organization.

If you don’t want your travel purse to count as a personal item or carry-on for flying, Longchamp’s packable mini backpack is a game-changer for saving space. While the bag is already smaller in size, it can fold up with the help of built-in snap-closures to compress the backpack into a small rectangle that packs flat. The bag can then be placed into a large piece of luggage for travel and unfolded to create the perfect purse for a day of sightseeing. It can hold bulkier items like a tablet, camera, water bottle, and wallet without feeling heavy or weighed down. One thing to note is that the bag doesn’t offer organizational features like pockets, so you may want to use a small pouch to organize smaller items. The recycled polyamide canvas backpack looks elegant and it comes in seven color options, but if backpacks aren’t your preferred way of carrying items, the brand also carries a similar packable Le Pliage Original Tote Bag that came highly recommended by T+L travel experts, too.

The Details: 11 x 10.2 x 3.9 inches | Recycled polyamide canvas

Best Machine Washable

Baggu nylon crescent bag.

  • Value 4.8 /5

You can toss this nylon bag in a washing machine after a trip for hassle-free upkeep.

Consider air-drying the bag to prevent pilling or shrinkage.

Traveling can speed up the typical wear and tear on a purse, especially for frequent fliers, so this machine-washable bag from Baggu makes it easy to breathe new life into it after trips. Baggu bags are notorious for being easy to pack and this larger crescent purse is no exception thanks to the flexible nylon material that can easily be compressed and folded. The medium size is surprisingly spacious with a large main section for water bottles, snacks, wallets, and a travel tablet , and two slip pockets for lip balm and keys. Plus, the nylon strap is adjustable for the most comfortable fit whether the bag is packed to the brim or with just a few items. Since all travelers have different styles, we love that the bag comes in various solid colors and bold prints to please everyone. While the bag is machine washable, we recommend hanging it up to air dry to prevent any shrinking or damage from a dryer.

The Details: 13.75 x 8 x 4 inches | Recycled heavyweight nylon

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Mesh Bag

Bloomingdale's

The material has plenty of stretch so it can hold bigger items like beach towels and jackets.

You’ll want to store keys and lip balm in a separate pouch since smaller items can fall through the mesh.

Whether vacationing somewhere tropical or swinging by the farmer’s market, this Longchamp mesh bag is a must-pack. Compact and easy to store in a bigger purse, the bag turns into a Mary Poppins bag once you begin packing it. From jean jackets to beach towels, the cotton mesh material has the slightest bit of stretch to hold bulkier items without anything falling through the perforated design. It can also store fruit, veggies, and flowers if you come across an unexpected farmer’s market while traveling. For smaller items, we recommend using a smaller pouch to keep keys, lip balm, and other skinny items safeguarded from the netting. Depending on your personal style, the bag comes in six color options featuring neutrals like white and brown or bolder colors like pink and green.

The Details: 15 x 12.2 inches | Cotton, gold hardware

Best for Laptops

John fluevog shoes nashua laptop bag.

John Fluevog Shoes

  • Value 4.5 /5

This compact laptop bag comes with tote handles and a crossbody strap that offers both a comfortable and convertible design.

Larger laptops might be a tighter fit.

This recommended John Fluvog leather laptop purse offers protection for your technology while traveling. It’s basically a laptop case with straps to carry it as a crossbody or tote bag, so we love that it’s specifically designed for computers. The removable crossbody strap is made with the same soft leather material and it boasts two little pockets to store small items like lip balm or earbuds that are easy to access from the strap. The interior has a designated slip pocket that can store laptops up to 15 inches long, but anything bigger might be a tight squeeze or not fit at all. Aside from a laptop, travelers can store small water bottles, snacks, notebooks, headphones, or any other essentials in the spacious main compartment. There is a front zippered pocket to conveniently access boarding passes or a phone while traveling. With several color and texture options, shoppers have the choice between black and blue color options made with soft pebbled leather and a brown color made with sleek smooth leather.

The Details: 15 x 11.25 x 2.25 inches | Pebbled leather

Other Travel Purses We Liked

Several travel purses still came highly recommended, but didn’t have as much praise compared to our winner’s list.

Madewell The Transport Saddlebag : The crossbody bag has lots of space to hold travel essentials, but the leather strap isn’t the most comfortable for long periods of time.

Senreve Midi Maestra Bag : We love that the modular design makes it easy to carry the bag in three different ways, but the medium size is a bit awkward for travel since it’s too small to hold a laptop and too bulky to pack in a suitcase.

With recommendations from T+L editors and other trusted travel experts on our team, we compiled this of tried-and-true travel purses. While we accepted all submissions, we narrowed the list down to 11 options that stood out for quality, capacity, and portability. Each bag recommended has been used for at least six months (some have been tested for over four years) and has traveled all around the world with us on various trip types.

Tips for Buying a Travel Purse

Know your storage and organization needs.

Whether you’re a minimalist or maximalist packer, there’s a travel purse out there to fit your needs. For travelers in need of extra space for larger wallets or laptops, we recommend a tote bag or medium-size backpack that often have designated pockets for items of different sizes. Crossbody, sling, and shoulder bags are best for storing just the essentials like phones, credit cards, earbuds, or a small wallet. For an even more streamlined option, a phone purse could be a good choice.

Prioritize comfort

Comfort while traveling is essential, so if you know you’re an over-packer, opt for a backpack or purse with thick, padded straps to help distribute the weight and provide cushioning. In general, you want to look for bags that don't have thin straps (often crossbody bags) since this can often cause discomfort or rubbing.

Think about anti-theft protection

Pickpocketing is a very real threat when traveling and the best way to avoid it is by making sure all of your valuables aren’t easily accessible. Anti-theft protection in travel purses can vary, but the common traits include discrete pockets in the back or interior of the purse, lockable zippers, and cut-resistant fabric.

A personal item is anything (allowed on an airplane, of course) that can fit underneath the seat. That means that purses, backpacks, totes, shopping bags, or laptop cases can count as your allotted personal item. If the airline is strict about personal items, you can always stick your purse inside of a backpack or carry-on to consolidate the number of items.

It depends on the material the purse is made out of and the type of fabric lining. In general, purses should come with manufacturing cleaning instructions, but if not, you can always opt for some soap and water to gently spot clean until you can get the bag professionally cleaned or into a washing machine if allowed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna sifted through testing notes from dozens of bag submissions and pulled from her knowledge of travel accessories to recommend the best travel purses.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Protect Your Trip »

The 12 best travel purses of 2024.

From hands-free to anti-theft options, discover the ideal companion for your journey.

The Best Travel Purses

Hands opening a black Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small purse on top of a table.

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

When you're planning a trip, a key wardrobe decision is determining what purse works best for your itinerary. You may want anti-theft features and compartments with space for glasses, passports, sunscreen and more – but you can also find plenty of extras like built-in wallets, hidden pockets and key ring attachments. There's a wide range of different styles on the market to suit your travel purse needs.

To help narrow the options, the editors at U.S. News along with travel experts researched and shared their go-to bags for all of life's adventures.

The Top Travel Purses of 2024

U.S. News editors researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry review sites and more, to come up with this selection of the best travel purses.

Best Overall: TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody

  • Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Crossbody: Lug Skeeter Convertible Crossbody

Best for europe: minooy eirene crossbody bag, best anti-theft: travelon anti-theft crossbody bag, best shoulder bag: vera bradley glenna satchel, best messenger bag: tory burch nylon small messenger, best backpack purse: calpak luka mini backpack.

  • Best Small Travel Purse: Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small

Best Packable: LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag

Best belt bag: dagne dover ace fanny pack, best sling bag: cluci small sling bag for women, best clutch: consuela thunderbird uptown crossbody.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. We update this article quarterly to ensure the bags we're recommending are in stock and continue to have great overall reviews from consumers, while also considering new product launches. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody in black against white background.

Courtesy of TUMI

Dimensions: 10.3 x 10 x 1.8 inches | Weight: 0.9 pounds | Colors: Five, including black with gold hardware and indigo

What sets it apart: This sleek design blends fashion with function. The Tyler Crossbody by TUMI has multiple organizational features, including a spacious main compartment for a passport, camera and other personal essentials; a U-shaped front pocket with a leather card pocket and key leash; two front zippered pockets; and a back slip pocket. The upscale nylon construction is durable yet polished and it can be spot cleaned for when those spills happen. What's more, the detachable leather charm can be monogrammed.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers love this bag because of all the pockets and separate compartments that keep everything organized and quick to find. They say the nylon has an upscale feel, and the overall design works perfectly for travel or daily use.

Price: $295 or less Shop now: TUMI | Amazon | Zappos | Macy's

Dimensions: 6 x 8 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.75 pounds | Colors: Multiple colors and prints, including red with white polka dots and solid options such as black or kelly green

If you love organizational details, the Lug Skeeter is a multicompartment crossbody bag with plenty of potential. You can leave your wallet at home and utilize the front compartment's built-in wallet, with its clear ID window and RFID protection, along with the bungee key ring that allows you to easily find your keys. There's a lined slip pocket with magnetic closure for quick access to your phone − making snapping a selfie oh-so-easy. The main compartment can fit your camera, snacks and personal essentials, with a plastic-lined zippered pocket for sunscreen, lotion or other small liquids. The back zippered compartment is ideal for wipes, a passport or other necessities.

Travelers appreciate: Owners of this style love the material of this bag, which comes in a variety of fun colors and prints. It's wipeable and water-repellent, so that spilled latte or sudden downpour won't be a problem. You can remove the adjustable strap and carry the bag with the top handle, depending on the needs of the day. Plus, the charm bar is a fun way to customize your handbag.

Price: $80 or less Shop now: QVC | Amazon | Luglife

Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.64 x 2.48 inches | Weight: 1.34 pounds | Colors: Black, brown, caramel and coffee

What sets it apart: When traveling abroad, versatility is key, and this chic design by Minooy offers just that. Constructed of high-quality full-grain leather in a choice of four classic colors, this multicompartment travel purse is packed with details. The separate main zippered pocket keeps everything from lipstick to a phone cord in its place. The crossbody bag offers understated luxury, the RFID-blocking internal compartment has six card slots, and the outside zippered pocket can hold up to an iPhone 14 Pro Max or Galaxy S22 Ultra.

Expert review: Marisa Méndez , senior travel editor at U.S. News, adores this purse. "I love how soft the leather is on this bag as well as all of the pockets and loops for organization," says Mendez. "My favorite feature is that the entire bag is RFID-blocking so I don't need to worry about carrying a wallet; I can just use the card slots in the bag."

Price: $159 or less Shop now: Minooy

Dimensions: 11.5 x 13.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.9 pounds | Colors: Multiple colors and prints, including wine-colored roses and solids like black or spruce

What sets it apart: Protecting your valuables is always important, but when you're traveling it's even more vital. This bag features Travelon's patented five-point anti-theft system, which includes slash-resistant handles and mesh panels within the walls of the bag. The bag also offers RFID protection, a locked main compartment, and the ability to fasten the bag to a chair or post to deter a thief in a restaurant, train station or airport.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight construction of the bag, combined with the theft-proof security features and multiple pockets, makes this a traveler favorite. Owners of this bag say it holds all of your travel essentials from passports to sunglasses, and that it holds up well after years of use.

Price: $70 or less Shop now: Travelon | Amazon

Vera Bradley Glenna Satchel in floral pattern against white background.

Courtesy of Vera Bradley

Dimensions: 11 x 12.25 x 8 inches | Weight: 0.88 pounds | Colors: Multiple prints, such as paisley and plaid or solids like green and navy

What sets it apart: Machine-washable and available in an array of eye-catching prints to suit your style, the Glenna Satchel is a large shoulder bag ideal for city adventures, day trips, shore excursions and daily activities. The spacious main compartment has a zip pocket and three slips, along with room for a book, tablet, planner, phone and wallet. There are two exterior slip pockets to stow things like maps or handouts, and a hidden zip pocket on the outside as well to secure smaller items. For added options, the drawstring adjusts the size of the bag depending on your needs.

Travelers appreciate: Fans of this bag praise the functionality and the pretty print options of the satchel. Though, some do note that the straps could be longer.

Price: $110 or less Shop now: Vera Bradley | Amazon

Dimensions: 8.7 x 7.1 x 3.9 inches | Weight: 0.9 pounds | Colors: Black

What sets it apart: Constructed with a 100% recycled nylon shell and trimmed in leather, this design gives major '90s vibes in all the best ways. The unstructured messenger bag is perfect for travel with an interior compartment for your wallet, phone, keys and more, plus an interior slit pocket and zippered pocket to keep valuables secured. The front exterior pocket of the bag zips, and the back slit pocket is ideal for your phone or items you want to reach quickly. Finished with a magnetic closure flap and a removable crossbody strap, this bag adds an element of style to your travel wardrobe.

Travelers appreciate: Lightweight, practical and functional are a few of the words bag owners use to describe this messenger bag. They say it works well for sightseeing, and that the bag can hold a lot without looking clunky or overstuffed.

Price: $248 or less Shop now: Tory Burch | Amazon

best travel purse for woman

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Dimensions: 10.75 x 8.75 x 4.5 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Colors: 16 options, including gold and lilac

What sets it apart : Designed with travel in mind, this mini backpack has a luggage trolley sleeve and matches the duffels and other items in the CALPAK Luka collection. You can put your tablet, wallet and other must-haves in the interior compartment; your cell phone and a travel umbrella in the exterior side pockets; your passport in the hidden back zippered pocket; and other items in the front zippered compartment. The bag's lining is water-resistant, the puffy exterior is soft and comfortable to carry, and the straps are adjustable to suit your needs.

Travelers appreciate: The compact and functional design is a key selling point for owners of this bag. They like that it fits an iPad, reading material, a wallet and even a camera. Plus, it's possible to coordinate your purse with other CALPAK luggage items. However, some note the two exterior side pockets could be slightly larger, as they can't hold a water bottle.

Price: $72 or less Shop now: CALPAK

Best Small Travel Purse: Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small

Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small in black against neutral background.

Dimensions: 8 x 5.6 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Colors: More than 25 color and fabric options, including black saffiano leather or cognac cactus leather

What sets it apart: For a compact design with adaptability, this Lo & Sons design checks all the boxes. This convertible style has a two-part strap to transform into a belt bag, crossbody, clutch, shoulder bag or wristlet with ease. The neatly organized interior compartment has space for your phone and essentials with a three-slot zippered pocket, an interior slip pocket, and an exterior card slot ideal for a room key or transit card. Offered in a choice of natural-grain nappa leather, scratch-resistant textured Saffiano leather or plant-based cactus leather, this style can easily go from day to night or boardroom to ballgame.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag really like the option to adjust the strap to suit the day's events. They compliment the quality construction and overall look, with many saying it's great for travel because it can easily fit into a duffel or backpack.

Price: $210 or less Shop now: Lo & Sons

Dimensions: 14 x 9.75 x 5 inches | Weight: 0.84 pounds | Colors: More than 20 options for solids and patterns, including black and seasonal prints

What sets it apart: Made of recycled ripstop nylon, this lightweight and durable handbag can easily be packed into your suitcase and pulled out for use when you arrive at your destination. It lays flat when not full of your belongings. This roomy travel purse has plenty of space in its two main compartments for a wallet, water bottle, cell phone, on-the-go necessities and a few fun things you find along the way. The front has two exterior zippered pockets, and there's a back zippered pocket as well. With the adjustable crossbody strap, the bag can also be worn as a shoulder bag. What's more, LeSportsac continuously adds to the color and pattern choices in this classic bag with everything from Peanuts characters to florals or plaid.

Travelers appreciate: Handbag owners rave about the pockets, durability and color options for this style. Many note while it is great for travel, it's also ideal for everyday use with plenty of space for everything.

Price: $105 or less Shop now: LeSportsac | Amazon

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack in navy blue color against white background.

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

Dimensions: 9.25 x 5.5 x 2.75 inches | Weight: 0.3 pounds | Colors: 12 options across neoprene and mesh materials, including black, navy and ube purple

What sets it apart: Offered in a choice of neoprene or air mesh, this versatile option is U.S. News' top fanny pack pick . This hands-free belt bag has an adjustable belt, a small front zip pocket (a great spot to stash cash for tipping) and a back panel exterior credit card. The roomy main compartment comes equipped with an elastic loop, a key clip and a card pocket to keep things easy to find.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this belt bag like the quality construction, color options and the overall versatility of the design. They also compliment the fabrication and say it holds the essentials without being bulky.

Price: $95 or less Shop now: Dagne Dover | Nordstrom | Saks Fifth Avenue

Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.5 x 2.95 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Colors: Nearly 20 options, from dark coffee to apricot

What sets it apart: Available in a wide variety of colors, this hands-free crossbody bag is perfect for those on the go. The three zippered pockets are roomy enough for travel essentials like keys, sunglasses, lipstick, wallet and sunscreen. Place your ID and credit cards in the five interior card slots, so you can leave your wallet at home. The back pocket of this sling bag is ideal for keeping important items close to your body to prevent theft, and the adjustable strap makes it comfortable to carry.

Expert review: "My favorite travel purse is the vegan leather crossbody bag by CLUCI," says Sharael Kolberg , a U.S. News travel contributor. "Not only is it environmentally and animal-friendly, it's also stylish and easily fits my wallet, passport, reusable water bottle and snacks. Plus, the front pocket allows easy access to my smartphone."

Price: $25.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Consuela Thunderbird Uptown Crossbody in antique white color against white background.

Courtesy of Consuela

Dimensions: 8.5 x 5 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Color: Antique white

Perfect for a night out on the town, exploring the city or even running errands, this clutch style is essentially a wallet that can be carried as a clutch or wristlet, or worn as a crossbody. Its eye-catching snake print exterior is trimmed in natural leather and adorned with a hand-woven friendship bracelet, a tassel charm and a hand-painted leather bag tag. There's also an exterior zippered pocket. Open the magnetic closure to reveal two interior zippered compartments for essentials, along with six card slots.

Expert review: "I bought this purse on a whim after seeing it in a Facebook ad, and it's my favorite wallet-style crossbody among all I have owned," says U.S. News travel contributor Holly Johnson .

Price: $215 or less Shop now: Consuela

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood has had a serious love for handbags her entire life. For everything from daily errands to global journeys, she has tried a variety of travel purse styles from an array of brands, discovering the good, the bad and the very best options. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research expertise to curate this list.

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  • The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

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The 6 Best Travel Purses of 2024

We found the best options for hauling around your essentials

best travel purse for woman

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TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A travel purse is an important investment with many roles to fulfill: it must secure your belongings, make them accessible while going through airport security , and keep them organized while sightseeing. The best travel purses allow you to move through your journey hands-free while offering aesthetic versatility.

When choosing a travel purse, look for anti-theft features such as RFID-blocking technology and locking compartments. A bag worn across the body is inherently more secure than a shoulder pick, and thoughtful organization keeps your belongings accessible and away from would-be pickpockets.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a worthy splurge for a lifetime investment, here are the best travel purses.

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall: baggallini everywhere bagg, best overall, baggallini everywhere bagg.

External compartments

Has anti-theft features

Easy to spot clean

No interior dividers

Travel purses help secure your items when you're abroad—without sacrificing style. A popular choice among female travelers, the Baggallini Everywhere Bagg is perfect for comfortably holding all your essentials. With thoughtfully designed pockets and sections, there's plenty of space for you to keep everything organized.

Some compartments feature RFID-blocking technology, so you can protect your personal information on credit cards, passports, and key cards and avoid identity theft. The travel purse features super lightweight, water-resistant nylon material, so your stuff will stay dry and protected in case of rain or spills. With cool colors and a stylish design, this bag works just as well for the office as it does for traveling abroad, so it's a great choice if you're looking for a very functional, multi-purpose bag.

According to our tester, the Everywhere Bagg feels substantial without being clunky. It can be worn on the shoulder or across the body and looks equally at home on your everyday commute as on your next international trip.

Size: 9 x 11 x 5 inches | Weight: 15 ounces | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Machine washable

Best Budget

Travelon anti-theft messenger bag.

 Amazon

Durable strap

RFID-blocking

Water-resistant

Slim top opening

This versatile bag from Travelon has the security features you want in a travel purse but still excels in style and affordability. With an adjustable cut-proof strap and slash-proof construction, it conveniently works as a cross-body purse and a travel shoulder bag. It features organized, lockable compartments and a handy, removable LED flashlight. You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck with this simple and classic bag, which comes in almost a dozen colors and patterns.

Our tester appreciated the sturdy construction of this bag, which is ideal for a travel item. The shoulder strap buckles open easily, allowing you to secure the bag to a luggage handle or stroller.

Size: 9.75 x 10 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 12 ounces | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Wipe clean

Best Lightweight

Travelon anit-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Adjustable strap

Removable LED light

Secure zippers

Slow access to security pockets

This mini shoulder bag is perfect if you're looking for a lightweight, stylish travel purse that will keep your valuables secure . With the roominess of a bigger bag, it features a main locking compartment and convenient front and rear pockets. The RFID-blocking card, passport slots, and slash-resistant body and shoulder strap will give you peace of mind that your valuables are protected. Our tester mentioned that while the back pocket doesn't have a locking zipper, it lays against the body and would be much more difficult for a pickpocket to access. With a low price and many fun colors to choose from, you may decide you want more than one.

Size: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2 inches | Weight: 10.9 ounces | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Wipe clean

Best Compact

Mumi x neat organizing clutch.

Mumi Design

Slim profile

No crossbody strap

This multi-functional travel pouch keeps all your essentials secure and organized. Use it as a casual clutch with an included wristlet to stay streamlined while traveling, or toss it into a larger purse or travel bag. Made with vegan leather, the clutch features card slots, a money slot, and a removable, cleanable PVC pouch for travel toiletries. Add a monogram for a customized touch.

Size: 9.8 x 11.4 inches | Weight: Not listed | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Spot clean

Best Fanny Pack

Patagonia ultralight black hole mini hip pack.

Built-in key clip

Packs down into own pocket

Made of 100% recycled fabric

No RFID-blocking tech

Travel days can be long, and sometimes you just need the essentials close at hand. Enter Patagonia's Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack. From one of the industry leaders in sustainability and quality, this small pack is easy to wear thanks to an adjustable strap that extends from 8 to 36 inches. Its 1-liter capacity is divided between a main zippered compartment and a smaller security pocket, also zippered, with a built-in key clip. True to the brand, the weather-resistant nylon is light, tough, and made of recycled materials.

Size: 8 x 4.75 x 2 inches | Weight: 3.5 ounces | Pockets: External | Care: Not listed

Best Backpack

Fjallraven kanken mini classic backpack.

Can be worn multiple ways

Available in a variety of colors

No internal dividers

If you're already a fan of Fjallraven's iconic line of backpacks, you'll love this mini version, too. Borrowing the same design as its larger counterpart, this 7-liter backpack features a main zippered compartment, a front zippered pocket, two open side pockets, adjustable straps, and top handles for convenient carrying. The 100 percent Vinylon F material means the bag is water-resistant and easily wipes clean. Combining the functionality of a backpack with the portability of a travel purse, you truly get the best of both worlds with the Kanken Mini Backpack.

Size: 11.4 x 7.9 x 5.1 inches | Weight: 0.5 pounds | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Spot clean

What to Look for in a Travel Purse

Anti-theft protection.

Chances are, you’re getting a travel purse because you want the extra security features it offers when you’re on the go. So look for travel purses incorporating RFID-blocking technology so scammers can’t swipe your credit card details from afar and locking compartments to keep valuables where they belong. 

Some bag types are inherently more secure than others. Shoulder bags, for example, can be a little easier to swipe because they’re so easy to yank off. On the other hand, messenger bags and crossbody bags are harder to remove and run with. They also keep your valuables closest to your body.

Organization

When it comes to travel purses, external compartments are handy for keeping items you need to access easily, like phones and car keys. However, these are also extremely easy for thieves to grab, especially if the pockets aren't secure. Think carefully about how you use your purse. If having external pockets makes you nervous, you can always throw your need-to-haves into a pouch in a deeper tote bag.

Always keep your passport in your purse while traveling; it should stay with you versus in any checked luggage out of your sight. The same goes for any essential medicines. Carry a portable charger for your key devices. Bring hand sanitizer and wipes for cleaning up when a proper sink isn’t available. Lip balm helps soothe lips dehydrated in flight. And if you’re flying internationally, bring a pen if you have customs forms to fill out before you land.

TSA’s current guidelines allow one liquid hand sanitizer container of up to 12 ounces per passenger in carry-on bags until further notice. (All other liquids, gels, and aerosols brought to a checkpoint are still limited to 3.4 ounces.)

Each airline has its own specific requirements, so consult your carrier’s rules for your fare class. But generally speaking, yes: a purse, briefcase, or laptop case in typical sizes should all be considered personal items.

Christine Luff is a New Jersey-based freelance writer specializing in travel and health. She has held staff positions at Reader's Digest and Ladies' Home Journal and has written for numerous magazines, websites, newsletters, and books.

Transportation Security Administration. " Hand Sanitizers ." Accessed Dec. 15, 2022.

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street style paris fashion week womenswear springsummer 2024 day eight

The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure

Take them everywhere

As someone who is constantly on the move, I’m well versed in the best travel purses. Whether I’m taking regular trips back home to Washington, D.C., or flying across the country to visit my brother in Los Angeles, I've never left the house without a purse draped across my shoulder.

Size is a matter of personal preference: You may seek out a small purse if you're packing light, or a medium crossbody if you're taking in sights with a guidebook in tow. However, I will say that big bags have been dominating trend cycles. Just take a look at recent fashion shows, such as Balenciaga’s Fall 2024 spectacle in L.A. which featured a sea of sizable shoulder bags , leather totes , and crossbody bags to tote everything you could possibly need on vacation.

No matter where you're headed or how much you plan to carry, embark on your upcoming journey in style with the 14 best travel purses ahead.

The Best Travel Purses for 2024

Bea Textured-Leather Tote

Best Shoulder Bag for Travel

Ysl bea textured-leather tote.

 In-Flight Leather and Suede-Trimmed Tote

Most Organized Travel Purse

Anya hindmarch in-flight leather and suede-trimmed tote.

Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag

Best Crossbody Travel Purse

Reformation rosetta sling crossbody bag.

Stanton Leather Belt Bag

Best Belt Bag for Travel

Proenza schouler stanton leather belt bag.

Le Pliage Original Large Nylon Shoulder Tote

Best Tote for Long-Distance Travel

Longchamp le pliage original large nylon shoulder tote.

The Zip Top Medium Transport Leather Tote

Best Travel Purse for Work Trips

Madewell the zip top medium transport leather tote.

Marcie Medium Textured-Leather Tote

Most Versatile Travel Purse

Chloé marcie medium textured-leather tote.

Soft Crescent Bag

Best Neutral Travel Purse

St. agni soft crescent bag.

Camdem Leather Tote

Best Large Travel Purse

The row camdem leather tote.

Nessah Bag

Best Travel Purse with an Adjustable Strap

Isabel marant nessah bag.

The supple leather of Saint Laurent's Bea tote will feel so comfortable resting on your shoulders. The handles' broad width will also reduce pressure, so carrying heavier items like your water bottle or tablet in transit won’t cause a problem.

Dimensions: 11"H x 19.3"W x 5.5"D.

Material: Leather

Color: Black

Misplacing your belongings can gravely impact any adventure. (I've lost several essentials in the past because I’ve relied on jacket pockets and non-closure bags to carry my precious belongings.) Instead, invest in a bag like Anya Hindmarch’s In-Flight tote to organize all your must-haves. This suede-trimmed design is equipped with countless compartments that will house every kind of essential, small or large.

Dimensions: 10.2"H x 15.4"W x 9.8"D.

Material: Canvas, leather, suede

Colors: Brown, multicolored

Attempting to carry a handbag while juggling heavy luggage can be a cumbersome experience. That’s why Maguire likes to sling Reformation’s Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag over her shoulder. “The black colorway will go with everything in your closet,” Maguire notes—whether you're traveling far or spending another day in your home town.

Dimensions: 9.75"H x 11.75"L x 4"D

Material: Leather, suede

For those who pack lightly, you’ll simply need an uncomplicated belt bag to wear around your waist. Turn to Proenza Schouler's Stanton bag, which features a stud-fastening belt and a twill lined interior. If you would rather wear this accessory as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag, just adjust the belt size to your desired length.

Dimensions: 7.7"H x 16.9"W x 4.5"D.

C olors: White, black

Those who have traveled with me know my go-to purse is Longchamp’s Le Pliage tote. As a self-proclaimed carrier of big bags, I’m not ashamed to say that my list of essentials is lengthy. This tote effortlessly stores my phone, wallet, laptop, and favorite book— along with a host of other items that many would call unnecessary on the road.

What reviewers are saying: “This is the perfect daily bag that can hold all of your essentials. The bag is very lightweight and has an inside pocket to hold small items. No need to hold a bottle of water in your hand or an umbrella. This bag is deep enough to hold all your key items for the day without being too heavy.”

Dimensions: 11.75"H x 12.25"W x 7.5"D.

Material: Nylon, leather

Colors: Brown, black, navy, red, pink, blue, green, gray, dark green, orange

If you’re traveling for work, chances are you’re constantly answering emails and completing last-minute tasks in transit. For this reason, it’s wise to invest in a durable leather bag that’s large enough to fit your laptop. Madewell’s Essential Tote is a crowd favorite, and with a secure zip closure, firm handles, and even a cup holder, we understand why.

Dimensions: 12"H x 11"W x 6"D.

Colors: Brown, black, green

Some of us like to pack several bags in our suitcases. But if options tend to overwhelm you, and you’d rather just take one purse that will get the job done, Chloé’s best-selling Marcie bag is up for the task. Use the detachable shoulder strap while traveling, and when you reach your destination, carry it by the handles.

Dimensions: 9"H x 13.8"W x 4.3"D.

“This fanny pack from St. Agni is the perfect size, and I love the color,” says Maguire. The neutral hue of this crescent shaped accessory makes it a great everyday bag no matter what you're packing. If you’re brainstorming your next travel outfit, consider pairing this piece with a gray crew neck, black leggings, and chunky sneakers .

Dimensions: 5.5"H x 11.5"L x 4"D.

Color: Ecru

Gargantuan? Not quite. Spacious? Most certainly. With a width of over 1 foot, The Row’s Camdem tote is especially fitting for heavy packers. However, despite its large size, there’s no need to worry about losing your smaller items within this purse. The internal zip pocket will keep your tiny things within reach.

Dimensions: 9.1"H x 12.6"W x 49.2"D.

The warm burgundy shade is what initially caught my eye, but what really drew me in was the smooth adjustable strap. I might have to indulge in this Isabel Marant piece for my next trip out to L.A.

Dimensions: 7"H x 11"W x 2"D.

Color: Burgundy

Prada Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag

Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag

Prada’s shoulder bag is designed with recycled nylon, but that in no way takes away from its elevated, carry-everywhere aesthetic. The minimalist silhouette and silver hardware are sleek and lightweight for city travels. The removable pouch is a nice (and useful) touch.

Dimensions: 9.4"H x 11.6"W x 3.5"D.

Material: Recycled nylon

Mansur Gavriel Small Zip Tote

Small Zip Tote

Mansur Gavriel's zip tote is made with gorgeous saffiano leather and decorated with a pastel pink hue that is beyond charming. The dimensions are just large enough to carry travel necessities like a passport holder, snacks, and a guidebook without weighing you down. With seven other shades to choose from, perhaps you might even consider purchasing more than one.

Dimensions: 10"H x 12.5"W x 4"D.

Colors: Cream, beige, blue, pink, red, burgundy, green, multicolored

Acne Studios Embossed Faux Patent-Leather Tote

Embossed Faux Patent-Leather Tote

A glossy finish like this is truly hard to resist. Acne Studios’ tote has convinced me that traveling with a patent leather purse will make my next city vacation experience that much better.

Dimensions: 13.8"H x 18.1"W x 6.3"D.

Material: Patent leather

BOTTEGA VENETA Hop Large Intrecciato Leather Tote

Hop Large Intrecciato Leather Tote

The fashion industry’s obsession with slouchy silhouettes isn’t fading anytime soon. Take part in the excitement with Bottega’s iconic tote, woven with the brand’s signature intrecciato technique that’s noticeable wherever you're headed this year.

Dimensions: 14.2"H x 22.4"W x 4.3"D.

Colors: Brown, white, blue

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TravelTrained

19 Best Travel Purses and Stylish Bags for Women (2023 Upd)

Best Travel Purses in2023 (Stylish, Anti-theft, Waterproof & Lightweight)

best purse for travel crossbody

Not long ago I’ve met these gorgeous two girls, Emi Pell from England and Johanna from Germany. They are both long-term travelers and Emi is a digital nomad for more than 4 years.

We traveled as a group for a while and almost every day they were wearing different purses and handbags, and, thanks to them, we decided to make a list of the best travel bags for women.

My only contribution to this article was the editing part so you can say thank you to them by following on Instagram.

best travel purse

Your purse is one of the most crucial items that will accompany you on all of your journeys, therefore it’s critical that you choose the appropriate one. This is when things become a little complicated.

The best travel purse can be difficult to find because there are so many options to pick from. Your choices are practically limitless, but it all depends on the type of traveler you are.

Safety should always come first in any bag you choose, but after that is taken into account, there are additional factors to consider.

If you travel frequently, the bag’s weight is important because you don’t want to be hauling all of your possessions in a large bag. Other factors to consider include the number of pockets, the affordability, and the style.

If you’re looking for a travel purse to accompany you on your adventures, I’ve compiled a list of the best travel purses for women.

Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

I adore cross-body bags. Particularly for those long days of travel. When traveling, the beauty of a crossbody purse is that it keeps your hands free – and we all know how vital that is.

The crossbody purses are perfect for traveling to places where you know you will be distracted and busy, either we are eating on the go, refreshing ourselves, or simply taking photos.

Baggallini Crossbody Bag

Baggallini Pocket Crossbody Bag With RFID-Protected Wristlet

If you’re searching for a lightweight bag, the Baggallini crossbody bag is an excellent option. The waterproof feature of this women’s travel purse is an extra bonus.

The bag includes an RFID-Protected Wristlet in addition to keeping your phone and other valuables safe. This adds an extra layer of protection.

The Baggallini travel purse comes with several small pockets for travelers who have a lot of stuff to take with them on their trips. A small compartment is provided for your water bottle & umbrella. The bag is available in a variety of colors.

NOTAG Crossbody Bag

NOTAG Small Crossbody Bag for Women

If you are looking for a purse with lots of pockets, this is the one. The NOTAG crossover bag is the ideal carry-on for hiking or other outdoor activities. It’s also waterproof, so your belongings will be safe.

The bag has a polyester lining as well as classic zippers for easy opening and closing. The crossover’s exterior features a number of small pockets that help you compartmentalize your belongings for easier access.

This bag is fantastic! The NOTAG crossbody bag is ideal for everyday use and travel. It can be carried in three ways: as a handbag, a crossbody bag, or a shoulder bag. The best aspect is that it is quite inexpensive!

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag

I love this crossbody bag! It is one of my favorites since it is ideal for traveling; it protects against pickpockets while also having plenty of useful storage space and stylish looks.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag is l arge enough to carry an iPad or tablet, as well as all of your other needs, such as your phone, coin purse, wallet, and much more.

Its focus on security sets it apart from its competitors. The body is slash-resistant, and the shoulder strap is adjustable & slash-resistant.

This is a super-stylish purse with hidden talents, complete with RFID-blocking cards & passport slots to assist guard against skimmers as well as identity theft. It comes in a variety of colors and has an adjustable strap.

Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse  

When you’re on vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is having your belongings stolen. I want to tell you that you can travel safely and without issue.

Nonetheless, being prepared with some safety precautions as well as the best travel security bag is a good idea.

The best anti-theft travel purse is one that you can wear close to the body & hold in your hands when you’re in a crowded area. Slash-proof materials, RFID panels, and locking zippers will all be included in the best anti-theft travel purse.

Do you want to find the best travel security bag? For your next vacation, I recommend the following anti-theft travel purses.

Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

The Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger is a popular travel purse for women with sleek styling that will go with a variety of outfits.

It’s also roomy, with mesh water bottle pockets on both sides. When you require more security, this Anti-Theft Travel Purse comes with a lock and magnetic flap pocket (I love this Anti-Theft Travel Purse).

Women Backpack Purse Waterproof

Women Backpack Purse Waterproof

The Waterproof Anti-theft Rucksack is made of nylon fabric and soft PU leather. You don’t have to worry about your possessions becoming soaked in water if there’s a lot of rain.

The purse has one detachable hand strap plus two long adjustable shoulder straps, allowing you to adjust the length of the Rucksack purse to your liking.

This waterproof Anti-theft Rucksack purse has enough space for your phone, makeup, umbrella, iPad, and other essentials.

The backpack purse’s back zipper design has an anti-theft function that protects your valuables from being stolen. And it could also be a great gift for your outdoor female friend !

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag

I like how the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag is large enough to accommodate all of my stuff, including my tablet or camera for capturing photos.

Pickpockets and slash-and-grab thieves won’t be able to get into your bag thanks to the main locking compartment & slash-proof design.

It also contains RFID-blocking card slots and LED lights that may be removed. You can pick from a wide range of colors for both style and support.

Best Purse for International Travel

While planning an amazing international trip can be one of life’s most exhilarating experiences, locating all of the necessary stuff to take with you might be one of the most difficult and time-consuming tasks you can undertake before departing on your journey.

However, having the best purse for international travel is just as vital as having all of the travel essentials that will spare you the trouble of looking for things in a foreign place.

So, if you’re seeking the best purse for international travel, keep reading to learn about the top recommendations I’ve made.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Tour Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Tour Bag

Travelon does not mess around when it comes to safety. Before your next international trip, you should purchase their Anti-Theft Classic Tour Bag. This bag has a 5-point anti-theft system that keeps your belongings safe at all times.

To begin, the bag incorporates slash-resistant straps and a body to keep you safe from slash-and-run thieves.

Second, it has an RFID-blocking pocket for your credit cards, passport, as well as other forms of identification. It also has lockable compartments to prevent pickpockets thieves.

This bag has various pockets & compartments to keep everything organized so it makes it just perfect for those who are looking for a purse with lots of compartments. Finally, it comes with a removable LED light.

Baggallini Everywhere Bagg With RFID

Baggallini Everywhere Bagg With RFID

Baggallini Everywhere Bagg is a versatile bag that is ideal for all of your international travels. This bag does have a very utilitarian design that does not compromise style.

Additionally, you have the option of selecting from a variety of colors. I am completely enamored with the bag.

It has a functional design that keeps everything in place. The main compartment is large and can hold a lot more than you might think.

It also contains a zipped pocket and a removable pouch for ease and convenience extra organization.

Best Travel Purse for the Phone

To safely carry all of our daily items, many of us rely on our big handbags, totes, as well as backpack-purse hybrids.

We expect a lot from our bags, from lipsticks to compacts, keys & recipes, to tech gadgets as well as chargers, and, of course, our phones.

Sadly, these big bags can quickly turn into a bottomless pit, making it nearly impossible to retrieve our phone when we really need it without rummaging thru the overflow of stuff to find exactly what we’re searching for.  

This persistent problem, fortunately, has a sleek, practical, & stylish remedy. When you are on the move, the best travel purse for your phone allows you to carry around your phone while keeping it safe as well as keeping your hands-free.

Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Tailored Crossbody Phone Bag

Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Tailored Crossbody Phone Pouch

This travel purse is both small and mighty, thanks to its radio-frequency identification (RFID)-blocking technology that disallows thieves to obtain access to your credit cards, passports, or IDs.

This stylish travel purse is also designed with an LED light to help you find your stuff in dim lighting as well as a two-compartment design spacious enough to store most cell phones.

Chala Crossbody Cell Phone Purse

Chala Crossbody Cell Phone Purse

The embroidered designs on this Chala Crossbody Cell Phone Purse range from butterflies & puppies to owls as well as ballerina slippers, and I love them all.

This travel purse for the phone is definitely one-of-a-kind, with over 40 distinct designs to pick from. It has extra interior padding to protect any size phone.

The Sak Iris Large Smartphone Crossbody

The Sak Iris Large Smartphone Crossbody

This 100% genuine leather travel purse for a phone also works as a full-sized wallet, with enough room for all of your cards, coins, cash, and, of course, your phone.

You can commute, shop, or run errands with your hands-free thanks to the adjustable strap. To secure & protect your phone from being damaged, it features one main compartment, 16 card slots, and 2 slide pockets.

Best Travel Purse for Laptop

Are you searching for the perfect all-around laptop purse to take with you while you travel?

Travel and technology go hand in hand in today’s world. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, or an international trip, chances are that you’ll bring your tablet or laptop with you. That’s where we come in with the best laptop travel purse.

Kenneth Cole Women’s Laptop Travel Tote

Kenneth Cole Women’s Laptop Travel Tote

This faux leather tote is available in two colors: black and charcoal. You can carry the bag over the shoulder of yours or grab the handles that have a drop length of 12 inches with your hands.

The laptop pocket is padded and will accommodate most laptops & tablets with screens up to 16 inches in size. The exterior is made of a pebbled, leather-like material , while the interior is lined to keep your belongings safe.

A full-length zipped tablet pocket divides the main compartment for organization. This travel purse for a laptop is 3.1 lbs in weight.

NUBILY Waterproof Lightweight Leather Bag

NUBILY Waterproof Lightweight Leather Bag

Thiѕ stylish purse mау be wоrn аѕ a messenger bag or a tоtе. It саn ассоmmоdаtе a 15.6-inсh lарtор and hаѕ multiрlе соmраrtmеntѕ аnd росkеtѕ tо keep everything оrgаnizеd.

It’s аlѕо lightwеight , weighing оnlу 1.9 lbs . This laptop travel purse iѕ ѕturdу yet nоt bulky, аnd it fitѕ еvеrуthing. It also hаѕ a top ziрреr closure tо kеер еvеrуthіng ѕесurе, and it’ѕ wаtеrрrооf tо kеер thingѕ drу еvеn оn rаinу dауѕ.

With so many features coming at this price, it gives you great value for money and could be one of the best travel handbags for ladies.

Multi-Pocket Work Tote Bag by EaseGive

Multi-Pocket Work Tote Bag by EaseGive

Try this рорulаr pick if you’re ѕеаrсhing for a fashionable laptop purse that dоеѕn’t соѕt a fortune.

It fеаturеѕ аdjuѕtаblе ѕtrарѕ and iѕ available in a vаriеtу оf соlоrѕ (inсluding blасk аnd a niсе soft рink), and it ассоmmоdаtеѕ lарtорѕ up to 15.6 inсhеѕ in ѕizе.

This lарtор trаvеl purse is оnе оf mу favorites because оf itѕ ѕtruсturе аnd professional appearance.

Best Purse for Travel in Europe

A safe, fashionable, & practical travel purse must be at the top of your agenda when visiting Europe! Your travel to Europe could be made or broken by a purse or your travel suitcase.

Here is a selection of luggage for a European trip you may need to consider before booking your holiday. 

It’s the only thing we have with us and can count on to keep our things safe while also looking stylish. As a result, I suggest the following:

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Bucket Bag  

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Bucket Bag

When it comes to picking a safe travel purse for Europe, the crossbody style paired with its unique 5-point anti-theft system puts it ahead of the pack.

It’ll be the perfect travel companion for your travel to Europe, with plenty of room (with external bottle/umbrella holders) and a variety of attractive color options (including classic black).

Estalon Leather Crossbody Purse for Women

Cross Body Bags For Women Travel | Travel Size | Gifts For Her | Multiple Compartments | Cross Body Tan Purse

The Estalon leather crossbody purse was created with elegant women in mind. It’s constructed of 100% oil-rich genuine leather and will offer a trendy touch to your clothing.

Its leather construction is meant to withstand wear and tear, making it a versatile option for everyday usage.

Estalon also made this purse spacious , which is something I truly like. Most “trendy” purses are just that — attractive – at the expense of a significant amount of space.

To carry your possessions in style, this multi-pocket women’s purse contains a fully lined bill compartment, 3 exterior zip compartments, 1 interior zip compartment, and a mobile holder.

The Estalon leather crossbody bag is probably your best pick if you’re seeking a practical and stylish travel purse for Europe.

Baggallini Pocket Lightweight Crossbody Bag  

Baggallini Pocket Lightweight Crossbody Bag

The Baggallini Pocket Lightweight Crossbody Bag is a fantastic travel pocketbook for individuals who want maximum convenience and ease.

This lightweight travel handbag offers a lot of room, making it a good choice for those who need to have a lot of belongings with them at all times. The bag includes a synthetic lining that keeps it water-resistant even in the wettest of storms.

It has two external zipped pockets for goods you require quick access to, as well as one main zipper pocket providing access to the biggest portion of the purse. There are several compartments inside the main pocket that assist keep your stuff organized.

This lightweight bag is available in a variety of colors and patterns. The shoulder strap is easily adjustable, allowing you to lengthen or shorten it throughout the day to suit your needs.

Best Travel Purse with Water Bottle Holder

Every day, more and more people travel. The need for travel purses has risen in line with this trend. Purses are ideal for usage on a daily basis.

However, if they have numerous compartments, they’re great for travel because passports and tickets may be kept close at hand. Travel purses should, however, contain a bottle holder in addition to various pockets.

Keeping your water bottle in your purse is a thing of the past! You’re putting your other stuff at risk of leaking.

Let’s have a look at the best travel purse with a water bottle holder.

Arxus Travel Lightweight Waterproof Bag

Arxus Travel Lightweight Waterproof Bag

This is a great option for people looking for a lightweight, low-cost travel handbag with a water bottle holder .

The Arxus Travel Lightweight Waterproof Bag weighs only 0.75 lbs, making a lightweight bag on our list. But don’t be fooled by its appearance; this bag is quite durable and has a great capacity.

The spacious main compartment is ideal for storing clothing, electronics, and other items. It also has three interior pockets, which are ideal for toiletries or other goods that need to be kept close to hand.

On the exterior, there’s a small zipped pocket for your phone and wallet, as well as a side mesh pocket for your bottle of water or coffee cup.

This bag is appropriate for any occasion. It can be used as a gym bag, weekender bag, carry-on bag, and even a personal bag when flying. It’s also foldable, so you can throw it in your suitcase in case you need some additional space.

See also:  Checked Bag vs Carry On Bag + 15 FAQ Answered

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Travelon does not mess around when it comes to safety. Before your next international travel, you should purchase their Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag. This bag has a 5-point anti-theft system that keeps your belongings safe at all times.

This bag has various pockets as well as compartments to keep everything organized. It also comes with an expandable water bottle holder that can be folded when not in use.

The main compartment is large enough to hold a regular-sized tablet. Finally, it comes with a removable LED light.

Travel Purse FAQ

What is the best purse for travel  .

Choosing the best purse for travel is largely determined by how you intend to transport your belongings. It should be pick-pocket resistant, comfortable, and large enough to carry all of your daily necessities.

Baggallini Everywhere Bagg With RFID is my favorite since it is fashionable enough to wear every day to complete my look.

Baggallini is well-known in the world of travel purses for producing sturdy and practical handbags with a slew of great features.

Because it has so many pockets, Everywhere Lightweight Crossbody Bag is ideal for travel. You’ll never again have to fumble around searching for your phone or wallet!

What is in my Travel Purse

what is in my travel purse

My purse packing routine is nearly always the same, regardless of where I am traveling. I make sure I have all of the necessary travel essential items in my purse, as well as anything else I might require to stay comfortable & prepared.

Items I do keep in my travel purse:

  • Phone with hands-free set in a small pouch
  • Hand wipes  
  • Pen plus a small notepad
  • Sunglasses with case
  • Medical needs
  • Makeup bag with one lip balm/lipstick, nail file, powder, etc.
  • Wallet with credit/debit cards, cash, and ID
  • Small keychain with keys
  • Insurance cards and information

How to Pack a Purse for Travel

The ability to travel with just a purse in hand is far more difficult than it appears, and packing such a purse efficiently is a good skill.

With airlines becoming increasingly tight with baggage allowances, knowing how to pack these travel handbags is now more vital than ever.

If you’re planning a trip and worrying about how to pack a purse, don’t panic — check the video below.

Your purse, as one of your most crucial travel companions, must be both comfortable and safe. RFID technology is now found in many purses, preventing thieves from accessing your personal info.

As a result, ensure the purse you buy has this feature. Your bag’s material is also crucial; it must be lightweight, waterproof, and soft.

Finally, the bag must have adequate space to accommodate all of your belongings, albeit this differs by the traveler. I believe this collection of the best travel purses can assist you in finding the right one for you!

LIKE IT? PIN IT

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Last update on 2024-03-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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The 15 Best Travel Purses of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These are our absolute favorite purses, belt bags, and totes for travel

Elizabeth Marino is a freelance commerce writer for PEOPLE, focusing on home products. A lover of all things home and family, she is thrilled to help consumers find the perfect products to fit their domestic needs. In her spare time you can find her traveling to any and all historic sites and museums – and food spots – throughout the country. You can read some of her history-based writing on the Smithsonian Ocean Portal. She holds a BA in American Studies and History from Columbia University.

best travel purse for woman

In This Article

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  • Our top picks

Our Verdict

  • Things to Consider

How We Tested

Why trust people, what is people tested.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

People / Marcus Millan

Whether you’re off to the beach, Europe, or headed out on business and want to put your most professional foot forward, a good travel purse can make your next travel experience easier. What do we mean by a travel purse? Any easy-to-carry purse, belt bag, tote, backpack, or sling bag that's small enough to count as your "personal item" on an airplane. With a seemingly endless collection of different styles, sizes, and materials on the market, finding the right travel purse, tote, or backpack to take on your trip can be an overwhelming task, to say the least. 

We tested popular travel bags on planes, trains, and, yes, automobile rides, and asked our team members to share their favorites. After reviewing 30 different travel purses on their capacity, portability, ease of use, and value, we put together this list of top travel bags.

Best Overall

Cheruty backpack purse.

  • Capacity 5 /5
  • Portability 5 /5
  • Ease of Use 5 /5

It has a large main pouch with a wide zipper flap for easy access.

The opening is on the back (next to your body) to keep your items safe.

There are two sizes and 15 colors available, so you can get exactly what you’re looking for.

There isn’t an easy way to make it stay on top of your rolling luggage.

Earning perfect scores across the board, this elegant travel backpack from Cheruty was our favorite. Featuring water bottle pouches, small interior and exterior pockets for passports and small devices, and soft, adjustable straps, this travel backpack has it all. Our favorite part, though, features a cavernous main pouch (with access only from the back, keeping your items extremely secure!) with a giant flap zipper opening, allowing you to easily pack your bag with all your items, small or large. Plus, it’s made with vegan leather that’s been coated with polyurethane, making it water-resistant. It also comes in two sizes and 15 colors.

It doesn’t include a sleeve to keep it on top of rolling carry-on luggage , but you can keep it strapped on your back while you maneuver your luggage through the airport. While it’s not a name brand, this backpack’s combination of capacity and features for a great price make it a truly fantastic option for a travel bag.

Size: Medium: 12.6 x 12.6 x 5.9 inches, large: 13.7 x 14.7 x 6.3 inches | Body Material: Vegan polyurethane leather | Available Colors: 15 colors and patterns

Best Overall, Runner Up

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Dagne Dover

This bag has a super spacious interior with tons of pockets.

It folds up compactly, which makes for easy storage.

It doesn’t contain any main interior dividers, so it can be easy to lose your things inside.

This duffel tote from Dagne Dover also earned perfect scores in all of our categories. Featuring a long zipper offering an easily accessible wide top opening, a cavernous interior, and various straps that allow you to carry it or wear it on your shoulder or crossbody, this bag has it all. It’s super lightweight and folds into itself, making for efficient storage.

While it doesn’t have interior dividers in the main section, it has a ton of pockets — including an interior laptop sleeve, four small interior side pockets, an exterior phone pocket, and a luggage handle sleeve — and it comes with a key leash, a small mesh pouch, and a shoe bag. Plus, it cleans super well — it looked as good as new after we washed it! We absolutely loved this well-made, well-designed travel duffel for any and all travel.

Size: 16.5 x 11 x 9 inches | Body Material: Neoprene | Available Colors: Neoprene: storm, onyx, heather gray, dune, camel, dark moss, air mesh: onyx, dark moss, warm dust

People / Nick Kova

People / Conor Ralph

The Spruce / Nick Kova

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon all night festival bag micro.

  • Capacity 3 /5
  • Ease of Use 4 /5

It’s a durable, high-quality belt bag.

It has a versatile design and can be worn in several ways.

We wish it included slots to organize credit cards.

This small Lululemon belt bag is the ideal bag for anyone looking to keep their important items accessible and organized without the bag getting in the way. This affordable and high-quality travel purse features a thoughtful design with multiple zip pockets of different shapes and sizes, making it great for many different uses. The front zip pocket is the ideal size for money, a couple of credit cards, and a phone, so you can easily access the things you need in a jiff. (We just wish it had slots to organize the credit cards.) Plus, it’s made of water-repellent nylon (which is super easy to spot clean!) and has held up remarkably well over the year our tester had it.

This bag’s small size makes it a fantastic option if you’re looking to keep your heavy-use items organized and accessible, and it can easily be tossed into a larger bag during travel. It has a versatile design and can be worn as a shoulder bag, crossbody, or fanny pack.

Size: 5.5 x 5.1 x 2 inches | Body Material: Nylon | Available Colors: Twilight rose, allspice, black/silver, black/gold, medium forest

Best Crossbody

Kavu sydney satchel.

  • Capacity 4 /5

It’s a sturdy and well-constructed bag.

It comes in fun colors and prints.

It has a long, adjustable strap.

The style and prints may not be super professional.

This fantastic crossbody satchel from KAVU can accompany you on any trip. With enough capacity to hold even a bulky sweatshirt, this cotton purse is great for any time you want to bring along some belongings without it feeling unwieldy or heavy. It’s super easy to clean and quite sturdy and well-made, so it’s great for trips where you might be doing rough outdoor activities, like hiking or enjoying an amusement park. With a large exterior zip pocket, an interior zip pocket, and two small interior flat pockets, this bag is great for keeping your items organized while remaining easily accessible.

Plus, it has a long, adjustable strap and comes in fun colors and prints, so you can find one right up your alley. The prints are rather bold, so this satchel might not be ideal if you need a more professional-looking bag.

Size: 15 x 13 x 1.5 inches | Body Material: Cotton | Available Colors: Beach paint, got dots, winterscape

Best Medium-Sized

Baggu nylon crescent bag.

  • Comfort 5 /5
  • Value 4.8 /5

This bag is the ideal size to hold everything you might want without becoming cumbersome to carry or stay organized.

It’s machine-washable.

It comes in a bunch of fun colors!

It has two pockets but no interior separators.

If you’re looking for a travel purse that’s not too big or too small, is easy to clean, and is super durable, the Medium Nylon Crescent Bag from Baggu may be the ideal fit. Made of durable heavyweight nylon (which is machine-washable and super easy to spot clean), this stylish bag featuring a variety of funky colors will hold all of your important items, and you can keep the most essential ones like keys and credit cards out of the fray in the interior zippered pouch. It doesn’t have any interior separators, but the pockets can keep most things organized.

Plus, it isn’t too big, so your items won’t be getting all mixed up and lost in a dark corner, either. It also has an adjustable strap, allowing you to hold it close to your body, and it zips shut and has no exterior pockets, so you can rest assured your items will be safe while you wander the airport, the beach, or the streets of Europe. And, if you’re looking for something a bit bigger, Baggu has released a large version as well.

Size: 13.75 x 8 x 4 inches | Body Material: Recycled heavyweight nylon | Available Colors: 11

Best with Multiple Pockets

Multisac lorraine crossbody bag.

  • Portability 4 /5

It’s a great price for such a well-designed vegan leather purse.

It comes in a variety of fun colors.

It’s the ideal size: not too large, not too small.

The narrow top opening can make it hard to find your belongings quickly.

This well-designed vegan leather travel purse from MultiSac is the ideal option if you’re looking to keep many different items organized throughout your travels. It features four exterior pockets — three on the front (two flat, one gusseted) and one on the back (which is extremely secure and can even be a bit difficult to access oneself) — as well as three interior pockets (two small gusseted ones, and one big enough for a small device like a tablet). With this variety of pocket shapes and sizes, you’ll definitely be able to keep all of your important documents organized and accessible. 

Plus, it comes in a variety of fun colors and prints, and the adjustable strap allows you to wear the purse crossbody or on your shoulder. This affordable purse is the ideal size for traveling — it’s not too large or too small. One small drawback: The narrow top opening of the purse can make it challenging to find and access your belongings quickly.

Size: 11 x 12 x 2.5 inches | Body Material: Vegan leather | Available Colors: Beach glass flowers, black (heirloom), gingham/hazelnut, margate floral, Tropicana floral

Best Foldable

Away the packable carryall.

It has a large capacity and is super lightweight.

The bag includes storage pouch which features a loop so you can clip it wherever you need!

It doesn’t contain any interior organizing compartments.

If you’re looking for a bag that will hold a lot but can be easily stored throughout your trip or while you’re home (or is a great “just in case” bag), you can’t do better than this foldable carryall from Away. Made of water-resistant nylon, this bag folds up into a tiny 6 by 4-inch storage pouch with a loop that can easily be tossed anywhere. While it doesn’t feature organizing compartments, it has one flat exterior pocket, one zipped interior pocket, and a whole bunch of capacity — ideal for any trip where you want to fit it all in one bag. It also features a luggage handle strap for easy transport in the airport, and it comes in a variety of beautiful, fun colors.

Size: 19.7 x 15 x 9 inches | Body Material: Recycled nylon | Available Colors: Black, navy, teal, cayenne

Best with Shoe Compartment

Minkars weekender bag.

It’s a phenomenal value for a bag that is so big, functional, well-made, and well-designed.

It features a luggage handle sleeve for easy transport and a USB charging port to use with a portable charger.

There are not a ton of color options.

With a spacious and easily accessible shoe compartment at the bottom, this travel tote by Minikars is great for any weekend trip. It looks a lot like a piece of Béis luggage , but at half price. It has a super wide opening and a sturdy design that holds its shape while you fill it, so you’ll have an easy time packing, unpacking, and accessing items in this bag. Plus, the shoe compartment is super spacious, and easy to access (unlike those dark, tunnel-like, cavernous ones where you have to hope for the best when reaching in to get something out). Plus, this bag comes with a matching toiletry case and a detachable crossbody strap, so you can carry it however works best for you. This thoughtfully designed bag also has a luggage handle sleeve for hands-free rolling through the airport, and a USB charging port that’s available when you need it. This bag is a great value with leather detailing, a thoughtful design, and three elegant color options.

Our team member who has this bag absolutely loves it. She shared, “It truly holds a lot, and it has the quality of more expensive bags that it's a dupe of (specifically the Beis Weekender one). The leather details make it feel more expensive than it actually is. I spent a lot of time scrolling through Amazon and Béis's website trying to compare bags, and I found this one seemed to look the most well-made for the price tag.”

Size: 17 x 16 x 8 inches | Body Material: Waterproof | Available Colors: Beige, black, pink

Best Sling Bag

Patagonia atom sling bag.

It’s made of durable, easy-to-clean, water-repellent material.

It’s ideal if you want to keep your items close to your body.

This bag features several pockets and pouches to keep your belongings organized and accessible.

It’s a casual bag, so it doesn’t have a professional look.

Another travel bag that earned top scores, this crossbody sling bag from Patagonia is excellent for anyone looking to comfortably free up their hands without sacrificing capacity. The bag itself rides on the wearer's back (close to your body), keeping your items safely out of the way without swinging everywhere and becoming a nuisance. Plus, the adjustable strap is padded and designed for comfort — and our favorite part: It features a small zipper pouch on the front for important or heavy-use items like a phone or keys.

We love how spacious this bag is and the fact that it’s water-repellent and easy to clean. The pockets and pouches in this bag are thoughtfully designed. In addition to the strap pouch, the bag features an exterior zip pouch along with the main zip pouch (and inside, there is a separator to keep your items organized), plus straps for carrying something bulkier like a yoga mat. This bag is casual, so it may not be the first choice if you’re looking for something more professional.

Size: 13.5 x 9 x 3 inches | Body Material: Water-repellent recycled polyester | Available Colors: 7

Best Lightweight

Longchamp le pliage filet mesh bag.

This bag can be scrunched up into a really small bundle — or folded up, which makes it easy to travel with and store.

It has more capacity than it may seem!

The contents of the bag are always visible.

If you’re looking for something unique, versatile, and stylish, this mesh bag from Longchamp (in collaboration with FILT) is the ideal option. With a surprisingly high capacity (think towel, sweater, book, sunglasses, water bottle, and more ), this scrunch-upable purse is great for any time you may need an impromptu bag — especially at the beach; no sand getting stuck in the bottom here! And don’t be concerned about your items falling out — we had no issue with this throughout our use. Keep in mind that everything is visible with this bag. It also has both the iconic Le Pliage flap and snap closure and handle as well as a longer set of straps, so you can wear it however works best for you.

Size: 15 x 12.2 inches | Body Material: Cotton | Available Colors: Ecru, tobacco, black, pink, green, lilac

Best Versatility

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

  • Design 5 /5
  • Durability 5 /5

This bag features a zipper expander, so you can easily switch between a medium and large size tote.

It features Longchamp’s signature Le Pliage foldover closure that allows you to fold your bag up into a small rectangle for easy storage and transport.

The polyamide canvas material is super easy to clean.

There are no interior organizational compartments.

Another one of the travel bags on our list that earned high ratings, Longchamp’s expandable travel duffel is great for so many uses. Even without opening the expansion, this bag already has quite the capacity, but if you’d like some extra space, just zip open the expansion and you’re good to go. Plus, this bag comes with both Longchamp’s iconic leather flap and snap closure and handle, as well as a detachable strap for on-the-shoulder wear. And, like most of Longchamp’s Le Pliage bags, this tote is designed to be folded up into a compact little rectangle, making this the ideal bag for tossing into your suitcase “just in case,” or hiding away in your checked luggage when not in use. It doesn’t feature interior organizational pockets, which would be helpful.

One of our testers shared that she considers this Longchamp “the everything bag.” She uses it as her daily purse and fills it with her wallet, keys, phone, and water bottle, but she also uses it for weekend trips. “I can use it as my laptop carrier on my way to work or on the airplane, and the material makes it so easy to clean up if I spill water, coffee, or food inside."

Size: 17.7 x 13.8 x 9.1 inches | Body Material: Recycled polyamide canvas | Available Colors: Black, navy, red

Portland Leather Leather Tote Bag

This bag comes in a wide array of beautiful and sophisticated colors.

It’s also available in four sizes, each with an open-top and zipper-top option, so you can get exactly the bag you need.

It doesn’t have interior organizational compartments aside from one small flat pocket.

Tote bag lovers, rejoice: This beautiful leather tote from Portland is a wonderful option for those seeking a travel bag that’s easily accessible while also looking professional and sophisticated. Although it has minimal interior organization, with a deep, wide interior, you can fit so much into this bag (we tested the large size).

We were easily able to fit a laptop, a wallet, a book, a Kindle, and keys (especially easy thanks to the snap-open key loop), and had room for more. Plus, each size and color also comes in open-top and zipper-top options, so you can achieve the level of ease or security you desire. Our favorite part, though: The thick, sturdy, genuine leather doesn’t slouch and has shown no signs of wear in over two years of use, even on the straps and rivets.

Size: Small: 13 x 11 x 4.5 inches, medium: 15 x 12 x 5.5 inches, large: 18 x 12 x 6 inches, oversized: 13.5-21 x 13 x 6 inches | Body Material: Leather (or suede) | Available Colors: Nutmeg, coldbrew, honey, cognac, pebbled black, black, grizzly, Dakota, storm-tan

Best Backpack

Longchamp le pliage original backpack.

It’s super secure with zippers that close tightly and Longchamp’s signature flap and snap.

It folds down to a portable size for easy storage or traveling.

It doesn’t have organizational pockets or compartments.

Another one of our bags that earned high ratings, this elegant Longchamp is great for anyone who prefers a backpack for traveling — and wants to know their belongings are safe. With a zipper closure as well as Longchamp’s famed Le Pliage foldover snap closure, you can rest assured your items will be secure. It also folds down to a portable size that’s easy for storage and traveling. While it doesn’t include organizational pockets or compartments, we were impressed by how much capacity this backpack has — we’ve fit a laptop, makeup, a sweater, a couple of water bottles, and snacks with no issue. Plus, it comes in several bright, fun colors. This Longchamp is a sophisticated way to wear a backpack, wherever you’re headed.

Size: 10.2 x 11 x 3.9 inches | Body Material: Recycled polyamide canvas | Available Colors: 7

Best Leather

Portland leather the toaster bag.

This bag comes in a variety of fun colors in pebbled and smooth scales.

Given this bag’s compact size, it holds a lot of stuff.

It only has one interior and one exterior pocket.

Those of you looking for a small bag that’s both sophisticated and stylish, look no further. This beautiful leather crossbody is super spacious for its size, has one interior and one exterior pocket, and will hold all of your essential belongings without becoming a nuisance. With a squared-off design that’s made to hold its form and a zipper that extends an inch or two down the sides, you can fill this belt bag up and still be able to access your items with ease.

It’s available in a variety of colors and finishes, including pebbled and smooth scales. Plus, with an adjustable strap, you can wear it as a crossbody or a shoulder bag — whichever you prefer. This elegant bag is a quality product with a timeless design and is a great choice.

Size: 9.25 x 6 x 2.5 inches | Body Material: Leather | Available Colors: 11

Best Investment

Lo & sons o.g. 2.

Lo & Sons

It has super spacious and well-thought-out pockets that allow (encourage!) you to keep your items organized.

There are different strap options, so you can wear it whichever way works best for you.

It comes in several sophisticated but fun color options — all of which come with gold or silver accents.

We couldn’t find any!

Another product with high scores, this sophisticated, functional, and versatile tote from Lo & Sons is ideal for any trip. With more pouches, pockets, and padding than we could imagine, this overnight bag can hold so much — and keep it organized. “Having a way to secure your travel bag on top of your roller luggage is a game changer, along with having secure but easy-to-access pockets for your passport and important items,” Jan Lo, cofounder and CEO of Lo & Sons shares.

This particular bag features a laptop sleeve, a flat exterior pouch, a shoe compartment, interior water bottle holders, small interior flat pouches, and a suitcase handle sleeve, plus a key leash and a detachable crossbody strap, allowing you to carry or wear it however you like. We also love that the nylon material makes it super easy to clean and that the bag has barely shown any signs of wear after over 4 years of use (just some slight fraying along the strap). Even better, it comes in a wide array of colors.

Size: Medium: 16.5 x 13.75  x 6.75 inches, large: 16.5 x 14.75 x 6.75 inches | Body Material: Nylon | Available Colors: Black, deep navy, grey (with grey, lavender, camel, and azure as interior options)

After considering all of our surveyed results of avid travelers, the Cheruty Travel Backpack is our favorite, thanks to its low price tag, durable material, and clever design.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Travel Purse

“Look for a bag that maximizes the space inside of the bag while not getting too big for the under-seat compartment," says Lo. Also, take into account what you may be using it for, as different types of trips may require different sizes of bags.

For example, if you travel by plane often, you'll want to take note of your favorite airline's specific size constraints, whereas weeklong road trips allow for a little more flexibility.

With many different kinds of travel purses out there, what style will work best for you is worth considering before hitting the stores (online or in person). Our favorites? Backpacks, totes, and small purses, each of which offer different benefits. Backpacks , like the Longchamp Le Pliage Original Backpack and the CHERUTY Women Backpack Purse , are best for keeping your items out of your way and can be great for staying organized as they often have many pouches and pockets of different shapes and sizes.

Totes are best for holding a lot of items and are a great option, especially if you’re trying to get away with just one big bag for your whole trip or just a tote and a rollaboard. We especially loved the Away The Packable Carryall and the Dagne Dover Landon Camel Large Carryall Bag because they can hold a lot but are super easy to store (both at home or during your trip!).

And finally, small purses , like the Lululemon All Night Festival Bag Micro 2L ,are great if you have just a few important/heavy-use items that you want to keep easily accessible (like your phone, wallet, keys, passport, maybe a book or a sweater, etc.) — or if you’re living the high life checking your bags but need to keep some important items with you. Smaller crossbody bags, like the Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag , are also great for trips where you may be hiking or going to amusement parks.

Heavily impacting both a travel bag’s style and its functionality is the material the bag is made of. Leather is going to look professional but be hard to clean. Cotton is going to be durable and easy to clean. Nylon is both professional and easy to clean. There are tons of different options out there, and we hope that with our help, you can find just what you’re looking for. In terms of durability, stylist Lindsay Albanese tells us her favorites are leather (we like the Portland Leather Tote Bag ), nylon, or even patent leather, adding that she loves a good print to hide stains or dirt.

Just like with luggage and travel cosmetics bags , travel purses can run the gamut when it comes to price: For this article, we tested bags at every price point, ranging from as low as $14.90 to as high as $396. It’s important to take your budget into account when shopping and try to find a well-made travel bag without being unduly pricey. We believe all of the options on our list of 16 are great choices when it comes to value.

To help find the best travel purses, we surveyed our team on their favorite travel bags, asking them all about their experience traveling with different products. We then had them rate their favorite bag on capacity, portability, ease of use, and value. 

With over 30 products to consider, we narrowed our list down to the best 15 based on value, durability, ease of use, and design features.

This truly depends on what you hope to carry: backpacks are great for keeping many different items organized and out of the way, whereas purses are best for carrying just a few things like your important documents, wallet, and keys.

While this really comes down to personal preference, both Lo and Albanese shared that they prefer to travel with backpacks. Lo shared that, with more compartments, backpacks can hold more contents and are more comfortable and convenient. Albanese said she prefers backpacks for traveling because they’re the most functional kind of travel bag, with many different pouches to keep your items separated and organized.

The best way to keep your valuables safe while traveling is to make sure your bag is fully enclosed and wear it close to your front. Lo suggests a crossbody bag (we like the MultiSac Lorraine Women's Crossbody Bag and the Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag ) to achieve both of these. Lo says that if you need something bigger, choose a fully enclosing tote (which you can keep to your front in crowds) instead of a backpack. (In fact, the reason Lo & Sons originally designed the brand’s Waverley 2 was because their mom’s wallet had been stolen from a backpack while traveling.)

Carry-ons are what go in the overhead compartment (and are usually rollaboards), whereas personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. If your purse is small enough to fit under the seat, it will not count as a carry-on, and you can bring a rollaboard as well. The personal item dimension limits are generally around 16 x 13 x 7 inches, but be sure to check your air carrier’s specific rules.

Larger bags like the Lo & Sons O.G. 2 and the CHERUTY Women Backpack Purse count as personal items (not carry-ons) and are a great choice if you’re hoping to use your travel bag to carry a lot of your stuff. 

In addition, you can also bring a smaller purse, like the Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag , Lululemon All Night Festival Bag Micro 2L , or KAVU Sydney Satchel , to carry important items and documents, which you can easily throw into a larger bag to get around bag number limits — which is one of Albanese’s favorite travel hacks.

Elizabeth Marino is a freelance commerce writer for PEOPLE, focusing on home products. A lover of all things home and family, she is thrilled to help consumers find the best products to fit their domestic needs. In her spare time, you can find her traveling to any and all historic sites and museums — and food spots — throughout the country. She holds a BA in American Studies and History from Columbia University.

  • Lindsay Albanese , fashion stylist and entrepreneur
  • Jan Lo , cofounder and CEO of Lo & Sons

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

a wall with many purses on it

The 15 Best Travel Purses to Carry You in Style

From durable leather crossbodies to versatile canvas totes, your “just right” bag for journeys near and far does exist.

Have you ever felt like Goldilocks while purse shopping? This one is too big. This one is too small. This one would be just right if it had a slip pocket for my phone or a zipper across the top to keep everything contained.

Finding the perfect everyday bag can take time with so many factors to consider: type, size, material, color, and features. But picking a travel purse can be even more challenging. (Those vacationing at select Four Seasons properties can forgo the stress of buying and borrow a designer bag for free.) The list of must-haves grows to include secure, comfortable, versatile, and durable. The material you choose could impact all those considerations.

Slash-resistant fabric can allay fears of losing your belongings to a thief. Leather can be heavy on its own. However, it remains a popular pick as one of the hardiest materials that easily transitions from casual and carefree to formal and professional. Vegan leather is typically lighter, not to mention more sustainable and less cruel. Featherlight raffia, wicker, or straw evokes both cool girl style (think Jane Birkin ) and warm weather vibes. Mesh, while great for a beach getaway, might not be practical in all situations. Rugged waxed canvas develops a beautiful patina over time. Nylon can be folded up and packed for that inevitable shopping spree; you might even be able to toss it in the washing machine when you get home for a quick cleanup.

Hands-free crossbody bags and carryall totes are obvious choices for your adventures, but they are far from the only options. Read on to discover our recommendations for the best travel purses to take you everywhere you want to go.

Longchamp Le Pliage Medium Nylon Shoulder Tote

Le Pliage Medium Nylon Shoulder Tote

French luxury brand Longchamp had the Japanese art of origami in mind when creating its cult classic Le Pliage bags, available in a multitude of shapes, sizes, and seasonal colors. Loved by editor in chief Steele Marcoux, this foldable tote is fashioned from nylon and trimmed in Russian leather. It was practically made for crisscrossing the globe, but it works for your daily commute too.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger

Anti-Theft Classic Messenger

This best-selling messenger bag pairs security with convenience. Body panels are lined with patented slash-resistant mesh. The strap contains stainless steel wire to prevent cut-and-run theft and a clip to secure the bag to a stationary object or chair. There’s no need to worry about your identity being stolen electronically with an RFID-blocking organizer in the rear panel for credit cards and passports. And locking zippered pulls guard against pickpockets. Expandable mesh pockets on each side keep a bottle of water, a small umbrella, or sunglasses close at hand, while you can stash your phone in the front zippered pocket hidden by a magnetic flap.

Saint Laurent Lou Camera Bag

Lou Camera Bag

Leather has a reputation for starting out stiff. Not the quilted calfskin of this camera bag. Reviewers describe it as “buttery soft.” The structured silhouette is roomy enough to fit all the necessities without losing its iconic shape, and the addition of a back slip pocket has been deemed a “game changer.” Go for the Deep Marine as a slightly unexpected neutral.

Stella McCartney Logo Crossbody Bag

Logo Crossbody Bag

Wear the subtle logo on this bag proudly. As all of Stella McCartney's accessories, the bucket-style crossbody is made from nonleather materials, in keeping with the brand's cruelty-free ethos. The body is crafted from its signature smooth Alter Mat and lined in supple, eco-friendly Alter Suede. The strap is made from 100 percent postconsumer recycled polyester.

Vera Bradley Triple Zip Hipster Crossbody Bag

Triple Zip Hipster Crossbody Bag

Performance twill makes this crossbody easy to wipe clean. The sleek fabric features two-inch quilting as a nod to the brand’s heritage and repels water. Monogram your bag for a personal touch.

Lo & Sons Waverley 2

Waverley 2

Need a travel purse that can multitask? This convertible bag is a crossbody, belt bag, wristlet, and shoulder bag all in one. You could even remove the two-part adjustable strap and use it as a clutch. Choose from a variety of colors and hardware finishes in three premium materials: textured Saffiano leather, smooth Nappa leather, or plant-based cactus leather.

Leatherology Kress Mini Top Handle Bag

Kress Mini Top Handle Bag

For traveling, our deputy digital editor, Jaime Milan, reaches for this mini top handle bag. She appreciates that you can wear it as a crossbody during the day and carry it by the handles at night.

Dagne Dover Micah Neoprene Crossbody

Micah Neoprene Crossbody

Made from the same material as wet suits, this lightweight neoprene bag is a sporty and low-key travel companion that will keep you organized. The thoughtful design incorporates an interior mesh slip pocket in the main compartment, an exterior zippered pocket with two elastic loops and a card slot, and a phone slip pocket with magnetic closure on the back. You might even have a little space to spare.

Béis The Phat Sack

The Phat Sack

Carry everything you could ever possibly need in this nylon mesh sack. A zippered pocket on the front and another inside, along with two slip pockets, corral smaller items. The 13-inch padded laptop sleeve and trolley pass-through mean you don’t have to reserve this bag for beach trips or boat outings. And the crossbody strap helps distribute the weight once you load it up.

Staud Perry Bag

Perry Bag

This slouchy raffia hobo isn’t your typical straw bag. It is fully lined, boasts pockets for organization, and possesses an elevated style, thanks to its classic stripe pattern and wrapped leather handle. The plush suede lining not only protects items like your sunglasses and phone but also extends the life of your bag, ensuring sharp objects like keys don’t come in contact with the potentially delicate outer material.

Brunello Cucinelli Cotton and Linen Canvas Shopper Bag with Monili

Cotton and Linen Canvas Shopper Bag with Monili

Add a sophisticated touch to any ensemble during your summer vacation and all season long with this shape-shifting shopper bag. Fasten the two internal ties to make the bag more compact and more difficult for pickpockets to reach into. The fabric is softened by 63 percent cotton and strengthened with 37 percent linen.

Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Double Bag

Lee Radziwill Double Bag

When mixing business with pleasure, you can’t go wrong with a timeless travel purse inspired by a style icon. The Lee Radziwill collection includes handbags in various sizes, silhouettes, and textiles. We're partial to this large, two-tone, leather-and-suede satchel composed of layers that unfold like the collar of a trench coat to reveal four open compartments, one center zippered section, one side wall zippered pocket, and one side wall slit pocket.

Mission Mercantile Leather Goods Heritage Waxed Canvas Commuter Tote

Heritage Waxed Canvas Commuter Tote

Sara Clark, VERANDA’s associate style & market editor, has been eyeing this “superfunctional” waxed canvas tote. She notes its versatility: Park it on top of a carry-on at the airport, or attach the shoulder strap and haul it to the local farmers’ market. Bonus: It can hold a 15-inch laptop.

Tumi Liv Backpack/Tote

Liv Backpack/Tote

A favorite among frequent fliers, Tumi offers a convertible leather backpack with a place for everything. Inside, you'll find a padded laptop compartment, three media pockets, a pen pocket, a zippered pocket, a collapsible water bottle pocket, and a key leash. If you want quick access to your phone, passport, wallet, or cash but are nervous about sticking it in one of the two exterior zippered pockets on the front, then turn to the hidden magnetic slip pocket on the back of the bag.

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15 BEST Travel Purses for Savvy & Stylish Travelers in 2024

Best Travel Purses

Last updated: October 17, 2023

TL;DR: The best travel purse is the Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag if theft prevention is your highest priority or the Lo & Sons Pearl if you need something a little more versatile and stylish. The Travelon messenger bag has locking zippers and tons of organizational pockets. The lightweight Pearl crossbody bag has zippered compartments and transforms into a clutch for dinners out. I’ve been testing the Pearl for about three months now and it has become a great everyday purse for my travels.

You’ll rarely catch me on the road without a purse or backpack. They’re essential for carrying valuables and staying organized. 

But there are differences between travel purses and everyday purses.

When traveling, you’ll carry extra items like your passport, laptop, and camera (aka valuables that you should keep a tight grip on!). 

And the right travel purses will help you do exactly that.

The best purses for travel are versatile, secure, and comfortable. Some are anti-theft bags, and others double as carry-on luggage when you’re flying.

As a regular traveler who has tested out a lot of purses over the years, I wrote this article to help you find the best purses for travel in every category–from stylish crossbody bags to the best anti-theft purse.

By the end, you’ll know what to consider when choosing the perfect travel purse for you.

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Short on time? Here’s a quick look at the top 15 travel purses.

Table of Contents

#1 Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote

Best Stylish Travel Purse

Product photo for the Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote.

Size: 13.5 x 18 x 5.75” Weight: 1.8 lbs Features: Made from LWG environmentally-friendly tanned leather, zipper top, and zippered interior pocket

The best purses for travel are more than practical, they make you feel glamorous.

Boasting luxurious soft leather, the Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote is a simple slim tote bag. 

This stylish travel purse is great for sightseeing because it holds everything you can possibly need from morning to evening.

The main compartment is spacious and you can even add a Tote Organization Insert for more interior pockets.

If you haven’t seen a pickpocket in action, search it on YouTube. The zipper on this tote is essential for detouring thieves.

Additionally, I feel good buying from Cuyana because they don’t feed the unsustainable fast-fashion industry.

Their durable and classic designs look good year after year.

  • Stylish no matter the season
  • More secure than the average open-top tote bag
  • Built to last
  • Only one internal pocket unless you buy the additional tote organizer

#2 Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 

Best Belt Bag

Product photo for the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag.

Size: 7.5″ x 2″ x 5″ Weight: 6.7 oz Features: Front zippered pocket, an internal mesh pocket, and a hidden external pocket, adjustable strap, large buckle

Belt bags, aka fanny packs, are hot stuff right now, and the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag functions as a cute travel sling purse or waist bag.

It’s as well-made as any of Lululemon’s other beloved activewear products, which isn’t surprising with the quality. of the Lululemon brand.

One of my favorite features of this bag is the exterior pocket hidden on the backside, which is very important for travel bags.

This means you can easily zip your phone in for easy access without exposing your wallet. 

Meanwhile, the inside mesh pocket is perfect for organizing just the essentials: sunglasses, lip balm, and keys.

Looking for more options? Read our guide to the best hiking fanny packs .

  • Best lightweight travel purse
  • A stylish and sporty option for touring cities or hiking
  • You can wear it in front so your possessions are within view at all times
  • Versatile as a day bag, but not as nice for a fancy dinner

#3 Away Packable Carryall

Best Purse for Carry-On Travel

Product image for the Away Packable Carryall.

Size: 15″ x 19.7″ x 9″ (6.3” x 4.3” x 2.4” when rolled up) Weight: 0.55 lbs Features: Zipper closure, spacious interior, and made from recycled nylon

Don’t be that person on your next flight who spills the contents of their bag in the middle of the aisle.

Not only is it embarrassing and frustrating, but it’s a good way to lose something.

That’s why it’s essential to have a carry-on purse or tote that zips closed like the Away Packable Carryall .

Its long handle offers comfortable shoulder carrying or holding on top of your roller bag.

And the trolly sleeve and roomy interior easily make this Away bag the best handbag for flying.

It fits a change of clothes, notebooks, a tablet for watching movies, and snacks.

I also always carry a sleeping eye mask and earplugs while traveling, which fit nicely into the interior zip pocket. 

Because it zips closed, I can slip it under a seat or into an overhead bin. Plus, its clean design will never go out of fashion.

  • Returnable within 100 days
  • Rolls into a small pouch when not in use
  • More of a large travel tote
  • Trolly sleeve
  • Made of recycled nylon
  • Not as much structure as a traditional purse

#4 Lo & Sons Pearl

Best Small Crossbody Travel Purse

Product photo for the Lo & Sons Pearl.

Size: 7.75” x 9.5” x 3” Weight: 0.9 lbs Features: Lightweight, clutch or crossbody design, internal zippered compartments, and has a key leash

Ready for your small purse dreams to come true?

The Lo & Sons Pearl has the internal space of a Marry Poppins bag but is just the right size for lightweight travel days.

The Pearl also has two external zippered compartments and a smaller zippered pocket in the center. 

I love this bag for its plentiful, yet uncomplicated organization. It’s one of my favorite travel purses.

It comes in Saffiano leather, Nappa leather, and plant-based Cactus leather. And there are several colors to choose between.

But what really makes the Pearl the best small travel purse, is its versatility. It transforms from a crossbody purse to a clutch. Small but mighty!

Alternatively, you might also like the Lo & Sons Waverly 2 , which is a little smaller and comes with a waist belt to transform into a belt bag.

  • Slim but has plenty of space
  • Detachable crossbody strap and clutch strap
  • Available in leather or plant-based vegan leather
  • Sleek and stylish
  • Plastic-free, metal hardware!
  • Doesn’t fit big wallets
  • Not as secure as travel purses with locking zippers

#5 Longchamp Pliage Original

Best Travel Purse for Europe

Product photo for Longchamp Le Pliage Original Tote bag

Size: 11” x 10.4” x 6.1” Weight: 7.76 oz Features: Foldable, leather trim, and has a zipper closure

The Longchamp Pliage Original is a leading brand from Paris that will help you blend in among fashionable Europeans.

A French girl in my self-defense class in Italy actually carried this Longchamp tote as her study abroad purse.

It’s no wonder the Longchamp Pliage has a cult following in travel circles–it folds flat for easy packing. 

Plus, it has a genuine leather handle and a water-resistant coated canvas body with leather trim. 

Set this baby down on the damp ground at a sidewalk cafe without worrying about your book getting wet inside.

Overall, this tote offers a high-end look, zips closed, and wipes clean for day-to-day freshness while traveling.

  • Stylish purse alternative to a generic canvas bag
  • Water-resistant
  • Only two organizational pockets inside

#6 Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Cx Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack

Best Convertible Travel Purse Backpack

Product photo for the Pacsafe Women's Citysafe Anti Theft Convertible Backpack.

Size: 8.9” x 9.8” x 4.3” (purse mode); 13.9” x 9.8” x 4.3” (backpack mode)  Weight: 0.99 lbs Features: Expands from a purse to a backpack, locking zipper, and RFID-blocking material

The genius Pacsafe Citysafe Cx Convertible Backpack is the lightest and most versatile bag you’ll find.

I’m always buying souvenirs, books, and snacks while sightseeing. This purse unfolds into a backpack large enough to carry all of your goodies. 

Plus, no worries if there’s a morning drizzle because it’s water-resistant.

Like Travelon bags, the Pacsafe Citysafe Convertible Backpack comes equipped with locking zippers and clips and slash-resistant fabric. 

It’s also made from RFID-blocking material that will protect your credit cards from being scanned.

  • Anti-theft technology protects your credit cards
  • Sustainable materials 
  • A little bulky as a purse

#7 Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag

Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse

Product photo for Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag

Size: 12.5” x 4” x 12” Weight: 15.5 oz Features: Locking clips and zippers, slash-resistant material, RFID-blocking pockets, compact, and it has an adjustable strap

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag is reasonably priced and features a minimalist design for any outfit.

However, what makes this the best crossbody travel purse is its safety features.

This Travelon anti-theft purse has a slash-resistant body constructed from an interlocking mesh barrier, so it can’t be cut open. 

And the adjustable shoulder strap has an internal anti-slash wire and a locking main compartment.

RFID stands for “radio frequency identification.” Some thieves try to scan your credit card information using special devices without ever reaching into your purse.

Not with this purse! The individual credit card slots feature RFID-blocking technology.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag can also lock to stationary objects, so no one can snatch it while you’re relaxing at a sidewalk cafe. 

As a purse for international travel, these features are particularly important. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of travel and be taken advantage of.

Travelon’s Mini version is another of the best purses for travel if you want something smaller. 

This anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag is the ultimate secure lightweight travel handbag to slip on before heading out for the night.

  • Travelon anti-theft technology
  • Lots of organizational pockets
  • Reasonably priced
  • Might not fit your aesthetic

#8 Cluci Backpack Purse

Best Travel Purse Backpack

Product photo for CLUCI Backpack Purse for Women

Size: 13.5″ x 6.25″ x 14.25″ Weight: 2.09 lbs. Features: Hidden back zipper pocket, adjustable strap for crossbody-carry, and hand-carry straps

Some of the best purses are convertible backpacks. 

The Cluci Backpack Purse is one example–it can be worn on your back, carried by hand, or slung across your body.

Not to mention, Cluci backpacks are cute and stylish. It’s the kind of bag you’ll want to carry around every day.

In terms of organization, it has stretchy pockets on either side, fits a 14-inch computer, and has a small hidden zipper pocket on the back for securing your wallet.

Made of high-quality PU leather, this is one of the best purse backpacks because it looks super cute and can hold up under daily use.

But if this backpack doesn’t feel quite right for you, check out the famous Fjallraven Kanken Backpack (another favorite of mine).

Looking for more versatile backpack options? Read our guide to the best EDC backpacks .

  • Durable and stylish
  • Fits a 14-inch laptop and notebooks
  • Convertible from a backpack to a purse
  • Zippers don’t come with locks–but luggage locks are cheap!

#9 Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote Bag

Best Luxury Travel Purse

Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote Bag

Size: 12.25″ x 8.75″ x 4.7″ Weight: 2.1 lbs Features: Zips closed, four internal pockets, fits up to a 13” laptop, and features a pebbled leather

This Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote Bag is elegant and sophisticated whether you’re on a work trip or out for coffee in a new city.

It works well as a travel bag because the top zips closed and it goes with any outfit. Plus, there’s an internal zipper compartment to keep your wallet extra safe. 

Inside, it’s easy to keep everything organized with the internal side pockets. It’s the perfect size for carrying the necessities plus a little more.

Just keep in mind, that it’s a shoulder bag, which isn’t optimal if you prefer crossbody-carrying.

There aren’t any external pockets, but sometimes that’s for the best since everything will be securely zipped inside.

This large zippered tote is made from premium leather for a refined style.

It will look right at home on your European vacation and add to the glamour of your travel pictures.

  • Stylish all day and all night
  • Zipper-protected middle pocket
  • Made from quality materials
  • Fits a small water bottle
  • Can’t be worn across the body

#10 Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Best Purse with a Water Bottle Holder

Product photo for the Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag.

Size: 9″ x 12.5″ x 3.5″ Weight: 10.4 ounces Features: Lockable clips and zippers, slash-resistant strap and outer panels, and a key leash with a light

The Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag has all of the same features as the other Travelon bag on this list, but it’s a little bigger and has a water bottle pouch. 

I highly recommend buying anti-theft travel purses or messenger bags if you expect to be in heavy crowds.

This Travelon anti-theft bag isn’t quite as fashionable as some of the other purses on this list.

However, the lockable zippers, adjustable shoulder strap, and slash-resistant material will reduce your risk of being pickpocketed. 

This messenger bag also has RFID-blocking material so that thieves can’t scan your credit cards while standing next to you.

  • Anti-theft technology
  • Water bottle holder
  • Super durable messenger bag
  • The mesh water bottle holder will tear if you overload it

#11 PINCNEL Backpack Purse

Best Waterproof Travel Purse

Product photo for the PINCNEL Backpack Waterproof Travel Purse.

Size: 12.99” x 5.9” x 13.28” (medium); 13.78” x 6.69” x 14.17” (large) Weight: 1.3 lbs (medium); 1.54 lbs (large) Features: The main compartment unzips on the back instead of the top for anti-theft protection

The most unique feature of the PINCNEL Backpack Purse is its anti-theft design. 

Unlike traditional backpacks with a zippered front pocket, this pack opens from the back. You have to take it off to reach inside. 

This is important because no one can access your laptop or wallet while you’re standing in line…and we all know how many lines there are while traveling.

It’s also made from waterproof nylon and comes in two sizes and six colors. And it includes internal organizer pockets and a small zipper pouch.

PINCNEL stands apart from the standard anti-theft backpacks, which aren’t quite as cute.

With this rucksack, you’ll have peace of mind, making it a good bag for stylish and safe travel.

  • Anti-theft design
  • Very affordable without sacrificing style
  • Max laptop size is 11 inches

#12 Lola Mae Quilted Crossbody Bag

Best Budget Travel Purse

Product photo for the Lola Mae Quilted Crossbody Bag.

Size: 8” x 2” x 6” Weight: 1.46 lbs Features: 30 colors to choose from, zips closed, and its internal organization

Being a broke backpacker doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice style. 

The Lola Mae Quilted Crossbody Bag is cute and affordable for every budget-conscious jet-setter.

For the price, you obviously aren’t getting Louis Vuitton leather, but it’s still made from good quality materials and wipes clean. 

This is also the perfect Goldilocks crossbody bag: not too big and not too small. 

While wearing it, you can easily adjust the crossbody shoulder strap to keep your valuables close and secure in the zippered pocket. 

  • Very affordable
  • Looks high fashion
  • Crossbody design
  • Versatile size that’s not too big or small
  • No locking compartments
  • Doesn’t come with the clutch strap

#13 Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bag

Best Durable Travel Purse

Product photo for the Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bag.

Size: 9” x 13.5” x 5” Weight: 1 lb Features: Multiple pockets inside and out, trolly sleeve, water bottle holder, and it comes in unique prints

Crossbody purses feature a comfortable design, sitting against your hip or under your arm and offering automatic theft protection.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is a hobo-style crossbody purse built for travelers and anyone who wants an ergonomic purse to carry everything in one place.

Baggallini is a trusted brand known for its durability. This purse is also machine washable, which boosts its longevity by looking fresh again and again.

Additionally, the Everywhere Bag slides onto a luggage handle and features an RFID-blocking lining to protect your credit cards from hackers.

And the exterior pockets are convenient for less important items like granola bars and hand sanitizer.

It’s also super adjustable with a shoulder strap that reaches 52” and an adorable matching coin purse. 

The one downside? Unlike other anti-theft travel purses, the zippers don’t lock. If this is a deal-breaker, check out the Travelon travel purses above.

Overall, this stylish travel purse is for anyone who prioritizes practical features. You really can’t go wrong with a Baggallini purse.

  • Trusted brand
  • Lots of colors
  • Multiple pockets
  • A little bulky
  • Not as fashionable

#14 BAGSMART Laptop Bag

Best Laptop Travel Bag

Product image for the BAGSMART Laptop Bag.

Size: 17.1″ x 6.5” (up to 8.7”) x 13″ Weight: 2.31 lbs Features: Expandable pockets, zippered external pocket, adjustable crossbody strap

This BAGSMART Laptop Bag is practical without looking too techy. It has a padded laptop sleeve that fits 17.3-inch laptops.

The outside is made of water-resistant polyester, and it’s even expandable.

Cushioned straps distribute the weight of a heavy computer to help prevent shoulder pain.

As a travel laptop bag, it’s also very important to note that the main compartment zips closed.

The last thing I want is for someone to reach in and grab important work documents.

Or for pens and sticky notes to fall out when I slip my bag under the seat on a plane. 

Overall, this bag’s large capacity means that it can double as a carry-on and an everyday bag, no matter where your travels take you.

  • Sleek and professional
  • Slim but spacious expandability
  • Comfortable straps
  • Long handle drop is comfortable over the shoulder or carried in hand
  • No anti-theft technology
  • Not high fashion

#15 Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack

Best Purse for New Moms

Product image for the Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack.

Size: 11” x 13.5” x 7” Weight: 1.75 lbs Features: Made from recycled materials, with a detachable shoulder strap, grab straps, and everything from stroller clips to a changing pad.

Now it’s time for the best on-the-go travel purse for moms.

Having a baby shouldn’t stop you from looking your best and traveling the world. 

The Dagne Dover Wade Diaper Tote is my favorite purse diaper bag where parents can fit everything they need, from diapers to baby bottles and fruit rollups to swimsuits. 

Its main compartments are spacious, and there’s even a spot for 13″ laptops–not that the baby is coming on business trips, but maybe a “working play date.”

And Dagne Dover has you covered with included features like a washable water-resistant bag for soiled clothes, stroller clips, a mini pouch, and a changing mat.

Plus, the Premium Neoprene and Performance Air Mesh are made of recycled water bottles for sustainable luxury.

The cushiony material is an excellent alternative to leather when you’re around kids. It’s just what new moms need.

  • You can carry it two ways
  • Goes with any outfit
  • Nine pockets, plus plenty of open space
  • Detachable strap
  • Doesn’t look like a diaper bag
  • A little boxy
  • Not the best backpack option

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Travel Purse

Close up of a blonde woman unzipping a small, brown leather purse.

What to Look for in a Travel Purse

Versatility

While traveling, your purse needs to work around the clock. Choose something that will look good at your most casual and glamorous moments.

Organization

If you like to toss everything into a soup of lip balm and pens, go for a big zippered tote. 

If you believe everything has its special place, double-check that there are plenty of organizational pockets.

Travel bags range in style from crossbody to sling, belt, backpack, and shoulder totes. 

Choose something that feels comfortable for your body type and fashion style.

Portability

Traveling with a lightweight purse is liberating. Additionally, look for something that fits in your luggage if you don’t plan to wear it every day.

When sightseeing all day, you need a purse with shoulder straps that don’t make your shoulders sore in the first hour.

Consider the types of purses you’ve enjoyed in the past. 

A convertible purse means that you can change the carrying position throughout the day.

Anti-Theft Features

As a traveler, you’re more vulnerable to pickpockets. You’ll be tired, distracted, and out of your element.

This is why it’s good to look for anti-theft features like slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets. 

Types of Travel Purses

A stylish woman wearing sunglasses, black leggings and a striped shirt sits on stone steps with a black leather purse beside her.

Small vs Medium vs Large

The smaller the purse, the more portable it will be. This is especially important if you like to go out at night.

Medium purses and convertible backpacks are perfect for all-day adventures when you want to carry snacks, a camera, or a water bottle. 

On travel days, large purses are handy for carrying valuables instead of risking having them stolen or damaged in a rolling suitcase. 

If I have the space, I usually carry at least two differently-sized purses with me on my travels. 

I generally pack one small purse for going out at night or to dinner and one medium/large purse for daytime adventures and travel days.

Anti-theft purses come with special features like locking compartments and an RFID-blocking pocket to keep you safe from thieves. 

Fashionable/Luxury

Luxury bags are the perfect travel purses for France, Italy, and other fashion-renowned places.

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not enjoy being part of the fashion scene? 

Plus, depending on where you’re traveling, you might fit in more as a local and, therefore, not be as targeted by pickpockets. 

Convertible Purses 

The best purses for travel are versatile. I especially like purses that transform into backpacks for carrying my accumulation of souvenirs and brochures.

Totes are always in style and allow you to carry everything your heart desires. 

Make sure to choose a tote with enough organization on the inside, and keep in mind that all of the weight is carried on one shoulder.

It’s also not as hands-free as a crossbody bag.

Shoulder Bag

Shoulder bags have longer shoulder straps than tote bags. They hang on the shoulder and free up your hands a little better.

Crossbody Bags

Crossbody bags are hands-free and sit on your hip for safekeeping. Plus, the crossbody design helps distribute the weight evenly. 

It’s unsurprising why they’re one of the most popular styles for travel purses. 

Sling bags are another great option if you want a hands-free purse. They hug your body and sit under your arm for safekeeping. 

Typically, sling bags have a lower capacity, which is perfect for going out but not the best for a carry-on bag.

FAQs About Travel Purses

A woman with a long dark ponytail seen from behind as she walks down a train platform, pulling the handle of rolling luggage, with a large purse on  her shoulder.

What style of purse is best for travel? 

First of all, the best purse for traveling is something that you feel comfortable using. 

I prefer anti-theft crossbody purses because they’re comfortable, easy to keep track of, and overall a very versatile bag.

What is the safest type of purse to travel with?

An anti-theft travel bag is the best option for protecting your belongings. They’re built with safety in mind. 

Most have a locking main compartment and special materials that utilize the crossbody or shoulder bag design.

What type of travel bag goes with everything? 

Black leather is the little black dress of purses. It matches every outfit, activity, and time of day.

Likewise, a medium size purse with a simple design looks good while eating lunch along the Parisian Seine or touring castles in Germany.

What should I pack in my travel purse?

Aside from a wallet, keys, and phone, pack anything that will keep you healthy and comfortable during a long and strenuous day of sightseeing.

This might include:

  • Books and travel guides
  • Notebook/sketchbook
  • Pens/pencils
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Water bottle

How do you stop a bag from getting snatched or pickpocketed?

The first and most important rule for avoiding theft is vigilance. Be aware of your bag and surroundings at all times.

Don’t leave your purse where you can’t see it or put a hand on it. Keep it close, in your lap at a cafe, and wear it on the front in crowded areas.

Especially on public transportation, don’t appear too lost in your thoughts or like you don’t know where you’re going.

Once you’ve covered the basics, anti-theft technology can close any gaps. 

Should I even travel with a purse?

I always bring a purse on my travels. You’ll want to have essentials with you even when you leave your luggage behind at your hotel, hostel, or vacation rental. 

Travel purses vs backpacks–which one is better?

I’m a big proponent of backpack purses because they’re the most comfortable for my body.

That said, backpacks are out of your line of sight and therefore more vulnerable to pickpockets.

Some packs, like the PINCNEL Anti-Theft Rucksack , have solved this problem and are well-protected with hidden pockets.

It ultimately comes down to what fits your style and body best. 

Conclusion: Our Pick for the Best Travel Purse

Close up of a woman with painted nails holding a small leather purse close to her torso.

So, which is the best pick out of all the travel purses on this list? 

All of the options in this article have their benefits, depending on what’s most important to you when you travel.

However, my personal favorite is the Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag .  

It features a simple design with a ton of interior organization and safety features.

The body and strap are made of slash-resistant material, and each pocket zips closed with anti-theft zippers.

And you can choose between the sleek black, stylish enough to go with everything option, or a pattern, which is tasteful and fun.

This is the perfect bag for carry-on travel or for a full day of adventures when you need peace of mind.

Plus, it comes from a trusted travel brand and will last for years.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for an even more stylish purse, I can’t get enough of the Lo & Sons Pearl . 

This purse comes in leather and vegan leather with 20 color and material combinations to match your style.

There are two zipper pockets for your wallet and phone and slip pockets for lip balm and masks, so it’s great for staying organized as well.

It’s small enough to take on any adventure and big enough to pack all the essentials, plus a notebook for a day of exploring.  

It’s one of the best crossbody bags for looking professional and fashionable. Plus, it transforms into a clutch or shoulder bag when needed. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elina Ansary

Elina Ansary

Elina Ansary is a writer, visual artist, and avid traveler. She grew up in San Francisco, CA, and spent her childhood camping up and down Northern California. These days, she visits artist residencies around the world and has lived in Amsterdam, Australia, and now Brooklyn, NY.

Looking for more travel gear recommendations? Check out our related posts below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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The 10 Best Travel Totes to Feel Fancy Every Time You Commute

Pack your bags.

best travel purse for woman

Byrdie / Brian Kopinski

While other types of bags, like suitcases and backpacks , have their place in your travel line-up, totes tend to have the ideal size, weight, and roominess for shorter trips or easy access en route.

“A travel tote is the ultimate accessory for any getaway,” says Marissa Galante Frank , Bloomingdale’s fashion director for accessories and beauty. “From the airport to the beach , you will find yourself using this tote more than you anticipated, which is why investing in a good one is key.”

It can be a challenge to find the right tote that can hold everything you need without becoming too heavy or cumbersome. So we surveyed 40 of our editors to find out which totes they swear by for commuting, vacationing, and everything in between. We asked them to rate each tote on size, organization, durability, and comfort, and after receiving their responses, we compiled this list of the best travel tote bags.

  • What To Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

Best overall, quince revive nylon large tote.

Fabric: Recycled nylon, recycled leather | Sizes: 13" H x 17" W x 5" D | Colors: 5

To put it simply, we love this tote. We’ve taken it on work trips, vacations, beach days, errand runs, and it always makes packing a breeze. The spacious interior has multiple compartments and a 15-inch laptop sleeve . Having two open pockets on the outside also makes our life easier by giving us a place to quickly tuck away our phone. Despite all that it’s able to carry, the bag distributes weight evenly and doesn’t get super heavy. We find the $90 price point a good middle ground for a travel tote, and all the details, like the leather trims, magnetic closures, and five stylish colorways make it worth the price. Not to mention that the water-resistant nylon is made from recycled water bottles and the leather is recycled as well. In fact, we can’t think of anything we would change.

Best Budget

Baggu duck bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15.5" × 11.5" × 4.75" | Colors: 11

Who says you have to spend a ton of money for a high quality tote bag? Baggu’s Duck Bag checks off all the features we are looking for while coming in at less than $40. The bag is large enough to fit our 15-inch laptop and can still hold other essentials like a full size water bottle, books, and snacks. A zipped interior pocket keeps our valuables secured and handy. Made from recycled cotton canvas , the tote is extremely durable and easy to clean . Even after spilling an entire burrito inside—epic fail, we know—we were able to throw it into the wash and get it back to looking clean without compromising the fabric or quality. In addition to the top handle, the bag comes with an adjustable crossbody strap that’s actually long enough to accommodate plus-sizes. Add in the fun patterns, and this bag is a winner all around.

Best Carry-On

Béis east to west tote.

Fabric: Recycled polyester, recycled faux leather | Sizes: W 17.13" x H 14.17" x D 9.06" | Colors: Black, Beige

In an age where airline fees keep on climbing, you can only afford to bring the most functional travel bags. This one from Beis is so efficient, we've used it as a carry-on. No inch is wasted, and inside you'll find a padded laptop sleeve (fits 13-inch or 15-inch), one large zippered pocket, two cellphone pockets, two water bottle pockets, and two pen pockets. We can't count all the times we scrambled to find a pen during a trip, and this bag finally gives it a place.

The outside is strategically designed as well. This is one of the few totes that has both a short and long handle in addition to a removable shoulder strap . And we love how the key leash is inside the outside zipped pocket—so often they are inside the main compartment, leaving us still digging around for the keys. The luggage sleeve allows us to zip through the airport and the zipped top ensures that even if our luggage tips over, nothing will fall out. Made from recycled polyester with a recycled faux leather trim , this tote is sustainable and durable.

Best Zippered

Longchamp tote bag.

Material: Leather, Recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating | Dimensions: 12.2" L x 11.8" H x 7.5" W | Colors: 7

Longchamp’s Pliage Tote Bag is iconic for good reason. Similar to the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, it’s the type of unstructured bag where you can throw a ton of stuff inside while the top zipper keeps everything secure, and the nylon and leather exterior looks stylish. Not to mention leather and nylon are durable and easy to keep clean.

We love to take this bag on international trips, since it’s roomy enough to hold packing cubes and easily fits under an airplane seat, or we can fold it down into a suitcase when not in use. It’s light and sleek enough to use as a purse while sightseeing, and we appreciate the extra security of the top zipper. There’s two flap pockets on the inside that can store your keys, passport, or wallet, so you aren’t digging around the bag to find them. The luxe designs and materials mean you'll be using this tote for years to come.

Best Weekender

Mz wallace large metro tote.

Bloomingdale's

Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 14.5" L ×11" W × 14.5" H | Colors: 9

Finding the right tote for a weekend getaway can be tricky, since you need something that can hold everything from clothes to cosmetics to electronics. Cue the MZ Wallace Metro Tote. Dubbed the Mary Poppins bag, this tote strikes the right balance of endless space and organization. We get six pockets on the inside and five pockets on the outside with ample room in the middle to hold bulky items like a laptop and clothes. All the pockets are zipped , so we don’t have to worry about things falling out as we throw this into our car. Plus, the bag comes with three detachable pouches that we love to use for our beauty products and chargers. Despite how much we pack into this bag, the quilted nylon remains incredibly lightweight . And for trips that involve flights, we can just stick this bag on top of our suitcase thanks to the nifty luggage sleeve .

Yet we use this bag for way more than just weekend trips . It’s sleek and stylish enough to take into the office, and the extra-wide straps leave our shoulders-pain free during our commute. Plus, there’s a detachable crossbody strap . If you've seen this bag all over your Insta feed and in IRL, now you know why.

Best for Work

Caraa studio large leather tote.

Material: Leather, waterproof nylon | Dimensions: 13" x 18" x 7.5" | Colors: Black

Several editors swear by the Caraa Studio Tote as their work bag , and here’s why: there’s a pocket for any scenario imaginable. Besides the standard laptop pocket—which can hold a 17-inch device —there’s eight pockets for all our essentials as well as a water bottle holder so we stay hydrated yet spill-free. Even if we were to spill inside the bag, it wouldn't be the end of the world, as the interior is made from waterproof, antimicrobial nylon .

When we're rushing to take the subway, every second counts, so we appreciate all the small conveniences like a key leash , an exterior phone pocket , and a covered shoe compartment to store our flats or sneakers. And whenever we get tired of wearing the bag over our shoulder, we use the detachable straps to convert it into a chic backpack instead. Not only is the Italian leather gorgeous, but the pebbled texture makes it more durable and resistant to scratches and scuffs. Yes this tote is more expensive, but it's made our morning commute less stressful, which is priceless.

Best Canvas

L.l.bean boat and tote bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15" H x 17" W x 7½" D (Large) | Colors: 13

While sometimes we want a bag with all the bells and whistles, other times we want a simple tote bag that can lug anything and be stuffed into any corner. Hello, the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag. Made from heavyweight canvas with a reinforced flat bottom and no pockets, this bag can be stuffed to the brim and then folded up when not in use. It’s our go-to bag for weekend trips, beach days, grocery shopping, etc. and it always holds everything we need—the brand has tested it to hold up to 500 pounds . Though we personally love the convenience of being able to reach in and grab anything from the open top , if you prefer extra security, it also comes in a zipped version. The white canvas and colorful straps will never go out of style, and you can choose from 13 different colors and add a monogram for only $8 . The bag ranges from small to extra large , and if you want to easily wear it over your shoulder, we recommend ordering the long straps. It honestly may be the best $40 you’ll ever spend.

Best Leather

Bandolier tote bag.

If you prefer the look of a leather tote , we adore this one from Bandolier. Crafted from pebbled leather , it's more durable than smooth leather designs that can scuff easily. Besides the scrumptious material, the tote is the ideal size for trips and going to the office. We usually end up throwing our sunglasses somewhere in our tote, but this bag actually has a special compartment for them, in addition to a key leash, 15-inch laptop sleeve, and additional zip pockets. After filing the bag with all our items, it doesn’t weigh us down or become bulky. Though it doesn’t zip close, it does have a magnetic closure for extra security.

Best for Outdoors

Carhartt legacy east/west tote.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 16.5" x 13.5" x 7" | Colors: Black, Carhartt Brown

Outdoor trips require bags that are highly durable and versatile, such as this bag from Carhartt, which is made from water-repellent polyester . We love how we can keep our personal items organized for a road trip or camping getaway, without needing to worry about the bag staying dry or the fabric getting wrecked. The spacious tote also features plenty of pockets on both the inside and outside, including a zip-closure main compartment and long divider pocket , and it’s available in two neutral colors. After getting this tote in 2018, it’s still going strong.

Best Designer

Marc jacobs the medium tote bag.

Neiman Marcus

Fabric:  Cotton Canvas | Sizes: 13" L x 6" D x 11" H | Colors: 6

If your style is more of using a tote as your catch-all, this bag is definitely for you. “While this bag doesn't have as many compartments or the pass through sleeve for suitcases, I've found it's a great travel option," says fashion stylist Ashlyn Greer . "My laptop fits securely inside, and it sits easily on top of my suitcase for rolling through the airport." Greer also loves how you can take this bag from airport to meeting due to its stylish nature. In addition to a top handle, it also has a removable crossbody strap when we want to go hands free. Made from cotton canvas , the bag is meant to fade and relax over time, for a lived-in look.

What to Look for in a Travel Tote

  • Material: Material is without a doubt a key player in your decision when getting a travel bag. For a super long-lasting option, we recommend keeping an eye out for full-grain leather or pebbled leather since it’s more durable and won’t show scuffs or scratches easily. If leather is not your vibe, we recommend a fabric that will be either stain-resistant or easy to clean, like nylon or polyester. A cotton canvas tote, can also be a great option, as it often can be hand or machine washed.
  • Organization: The way you organize your bag is personal—and you should find the bag that works to your advantage. The obvious answer is if you like a lot of organization, choose the bag with more pockets. For long distance travel, we recommend looking for a bag with interior pockets and zippered exterior pockets. If you’re more of a catch-all bag kind of person, we recommend looking for a flat-canvas bottom and a structured silhouette to help you stay organized even with less pockets.
  • Color: “I often opt for versatile shades like black, brown, or neutrals that seamlessly complement my travel wardrobe,” says Deseri Kelley , founder of a luxury handbag brand. But if you like your accessories to make more of a statement, we recommend sticking with deep hues of statement colors such as deep reds, greens, oranges, etc. You’ll still get a pop of color without dirt showing up easily.

"The perfect size should comfortably fit everything I require for my particular journey without becoming overly burdensome to carry,” says Kelley. If you plan on carrying your laptop in your tote, always double check the tote’s dimensions to see if it’s large enough.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your tote—or any bag for that matter—is to hang it in storage. The constant strain on the straps will gradually weaken them, leading them to break eventually. Instead, you should store your bags on a flat surface and consider stuffing them with tissue paper to help retain their shape.

Byrdie writer Rachel Simon has covered shopping and style extensively for publications including Glamour , InStyle , Brides , and more. She teaches writing with Gotham Writers Workshop and Redbud Writers Project.

Freelance fashion writer and full-time copywriter, Dagmara Cintron covers not only fashion, but local Los Angeles stories, rising Latina women stories, and more across other platforms. Having lived between LA and New York City for the last 4 years, she personally shopped around and tested countless travel bags and totes.

Emily Cieslak is an associate commerce editor, covering beauty and fashion. She personally uses the Caraa Studio Tote for commuting to work. Together, the writers interviewed these style experts for this article:

  • Deseri Kelley is the founder of luxury handbag brand, DESERI— here she aims to make luxury handbags more accessible to people with a black woman-owned brand, at a reasonable price point. 
  • Ashlyn Greer is a professional stylist and founder of Fashivly, a virtual personal styling service. 
  • Marissa Galante Frank is Bloomingdale’s Fashion Director for Accessories and Beauty.

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Any excuse for a vacation, right?

travel bag

Our Top Picks:

Faux-Leather-Trim Canvas Overnight Bag

Best Weekender Bag on Amazon

Camtop faux-leather-trim canvas overnight bag.

Travel Overnight Bag

Best Weekender Overnight Bag

Bagsmart travel overnight bag.

Canvas and Leather Weekender Bag

Best Beis Weekender Bag

Beis canvas and leather weekender bag.

ReNew Transit Weekender

Best Carry-On Weekend Bag

Everlane renew transit weekender.

Go Getter Large Weekender Bag

Best Lululemon Weekender Travel Bag

Lululemon go getter large weekender bag.

Chelsea Recycled Nylon Weekender

Best Designer Weekender Bag

Kate spade chelsea recycled nylon weekender.

The Medium Everywhere Bag

Best Luggage-Style Weekender Bag

Away the medium everywhere bag.

Luka Duffle Bag

Best Weekender Bag with Shoe Compartment

Calpak luka duffle bag.

Never Stop Weekend Duffle Bag

Best Outdoors Weekender Bag

The north face never stop weekend duffle bag.

Capri 2-in-1 Garment and Duffel Bag

Best Duffel with Garment Bag

Brouk & co capri 2-in-1 garment and duffel bag.

What should you consider when choosing a weekender bag?

Size: From compact overnight bags that hold one set of clothes to those that can hold up to five-plus shoes, the size of your weekender will ultimately depend on how long you plan to travel and how many resources you need.

Material: Whether you gravitate toward nylon that can withstand the elements or supple leather (real or faux!), there's a weekender for every style and budget.

Style: These weekender bags are a mix of duffels, totes , suitcases , and even convertible backpacks that are easy to carry and fit all your essentials for just a few days.

Features: Think shoe compartments, dedicated laptop sleeves, water bottle slips, and convenient exterior pockets for phones or IDs. Plenty also have trolley sleeves, aka the open-bottom slot that allows you to slide the bag onto suitcase handles. It's genius stacked on top of a roller bag for seamlessly moving through an airport.

Can a weekender bag be a carry-on?

That’s one of the best parts! The majority of these weekender bags work for short excursions but also double as smart carry-ons for trips of any length.

Once you’ve picked your new go-to weekender, you can grab a toiletry bag to keep yourself organized or add some hardworking travel accessories (like a mini hair dryer and jewelry case ). Comfortable clothes are ideal, too—try a pair of fabulous travel pants or one of these outfits on for size. Now all that’s left is to pick your destination—and actually see the world.

This weekender was made for wear and tear. The cotton-lined canvas design is durable, and its heavy-duty zippers promise dependability over time. One user reveals it is especially useful to bring to the hospital for deliveries. Equipped with a laptop pocket, a separate shoe compartment, and a trolley sleeve, this weekender has a lot to offer without breaking the bank.

Colors: Beige, black, beige/black, botanical print, pink, sage stripe, army green, floral print, gray, leopard, marble, spotted leopard, black and white stripe, orange floral, quilted black, quilted olive, quilted beige, and quilted pink

Employ this soft, ultra-light nylon bag as an overnighter or a gym bag. Not only does it have straps for your yoga mat, a zipped shoe compartment, and trolley sleeve, but it’s also spacious enough for your trip essentials. Some even note it as a solid dupe for trendy (and super-pricey) gym bags, with plenty calling out its versatility as a work bag (thanks to a handy laptop sleeve), sports bag, travel bag, and even a diaper bag.

Colors: Pink, beige, black, dark pink, purple, light beige, orange, and blue

Trust us: The most talked-about weekender on the internet lives up to the hype. It has everything you need in one place: a zippered shoe compartment, a trolley sleeve, and a roomy interior with pockets for organization. It comes in seven different hues, from timeless neutrals to delightful brights.

Colors: Black, beige, gray, atlas pink, navy, maple brown, and olive

Everlane's travel offerings continue to impress us. This weekender is made from recycled materials, is roomy enough to carry a pair of shoes, an outfit or two, toiletries, your water bottle, and your laptop. You can wear it cross-body, on your shoulders, or on top of a rolling suitcase using the discreet trolley sleeve. What more could you need?

Colors: Warm charcoal, black, warm quartz, nutria green, and katamala olive green

For a sleek option, look no further than this water-resistant design from Lululemon. Every detail is considered, from the padded handles for easy carrying to the mix of small pockets for devices and travel essentials and bigger ones for your storage. There’s even an interior padded pocket for your laptop and a designated spot for your water bottle so you can easily access it. Finally, there’s a back-zippered pocket with a hidden trolley-compatible strap for when you have a suitcase with you.

Color: Black

This convertible travel bag can be worn on the shoulder or stacked on top of luggage, thanks to a handy trolley strap. It has plenty of interior and exterior pockets to keep you organized throughout your travels.

Colors: Deep jade and black

If you prefer an understated approach to style, this minimalist nylon carry-on with leather detail is ideal. It fits perfectly under a seat, and in addition to the requisite laptop sleeve, it even has a compartment for a water bottle or umbrella. This size is great for one or two nights away, but for more packing room, try the large size , and for an everyday bag, try the smaller version . Plus, it has a laptop and trolley sleeve to make multi-carry travel a breeze.

Colors: Navy, black, coast blue, and olive green

This bag has a roomy main upper with plenty of interior pockets and a large shoe compartment at the bottom—meaning you can stay super organized and stylish. Plus, there's a handy trolley sleeve for easy traveling.

Colors: Black, chocolate, and rose quartz

With a spacious main compartment, designated shoe compartment, water-repellent exterior, and abrasion-resistant base, The North Face's weekender duffel is ready to go wherever you do. It's made from recycled materials and offers tons of pockets to keep you organized.

Brouk & Co Capri 2-in-1 Garment and Duffel Bag

Are you traveling for a wedding or important business meeting? This bag will be your holy grail—it has a built-in garment bag and side pockets for shoes, plus a healthy amount of space for everything else you’ll need for the weekend.

Colors: Tan/Fuschia

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

The Catalina Deluxe

With a spacious interior and separate bottom compartment —which can fit two to three pairs of shoes or your dirty laundry—this camo weekender will be a favorite for frequent travelers. In addition to the recycled poly material shown here, it also comes in a variety of eco-friendly canvas shades. This is an essential do-it-all weekender, with sturdy materials and construction that leave no room for worry.

Colors: Navy camo, gray, onyx, deep navy, and golden brown

Rothy’s Structured Weekender Bag

Structured Weekender Bag

Don’t let the gorgeous camel-and-black exterior fool you—this roomy travel tote is made with roughly 1,794 grams of ocean-bound plastic. Beyond that, it has a detachable strap and multiple zippered compartments (and a laundry bag), not to mention that it's fully machine-washable. (P.S. You’ll want the matching overnight bag and wristlet , too.)

Colors: Camel/black, shadow black, and sand stone gray

Mali + Lili Nylon & Vegan Leather Weekend Duffle Bag

Nylon & Vegan Leather Weekend Duffle Bag

At this price point, what's not to love about Mali + Lili's nylon weekender bag with a vegan leather trim and premium hardware finishes? It has plenty of pockets inside and out for organizing. There's loads of versatility thanks to interchangeable accessories and a trolley sleeve for travel.

Samsonite Mobile Solution Classic Duffel

Mobile Solution Classic Duffel

Made from a sleek, water-resistant nylon with premium vinyl trim, Samsonite's classic duffel bag offers a premium travel solution whether you're off for a night or a week. It has plenty of pockets inside and out to keep you organized on the go. You can easily stack it on your luggage thanks to a handy trolley strap, or the adjustable shoulder strap can be worn as a crossbody.

Colors: Black and navy blue

Monos Metro Duffle in Carbon Black

Metro Duffle in Carbon Black

With a sleek, compact design, Monos's versatile weekender can be worn on the shoulder (look at those generous straps!), across the body, or stacked on top of your luggage. It's crafted with a water-resistant nylon twill so you don't have to worry about being too precious on the go. We love that there's a zippered lower storage area for shoes or separating wet items, a 16-inch laptop sleeve, and built-in trolley sleeve.

Colors: Carbon black and juniper green

Cuyana Recycled Knit Weekender

Recycled Knit Weekender

Travel smarter with this functional and fabulous weekender—crafted with a fine knit made from recycled plastics. Three main interior compartments keep all of your essentials organized, while the outside has laptop-sized pockets and a trolley sleeve, too. Also available in black and pebbled leather , as well as an overnight size.

Colors: Cappuccino and black

Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag

Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag

This extra-large, spacious, water-resistant neoprene duffel makes simplified storage and transport easier. than ever. Thanks to a water bottle holder, a shoe duster, a mesh pouch, and a padded laptop pocket, all of your essentials stay in place.

Colors: Navy, black, camel, gray, and dune

Paravel Main Line Duffle

Main Line Duffle

Travel like an old-school jetsetter with this very chic, vintage-inspired carryall. Not only is it made from a stain-repellent coated canvas with premium leather trim, but light packers could stash up to five days’ worth of clothing inside. It also makes a fabulous gift for those who love a monogrammed moment.

Colors: Scout tan and domino black

Madewell Essential Overnight Bag in Leather

Essential Overnight Bag in Leather

A handsome leather weekender is meant to live a life well-traveled. Inside, plenty of roomy pockets help to keep you organized. This buttery-soft style is perfect for an overnighter and will only get better with wear. If black is not your thing, it also comes in a beautiful saddle shade.

Colors: True black and English saddle brown

S-ZONE Oversize Canvas Leather-Trim Travel Tote

Oversize Canvas Leather-Trim Travel Tote

This canvas bag’s vintage unisex appeal and durable leather trim are undoubtedly its main selling points. Inside, plenty of zippered pockets make organizing your passport, wallet, and tech a breeze. While it's considered a fantastic overnight bag, the room for storage seems endless.

Colors: Blue, army green, gray, dark gray, light gray, black stripe, blue stripe, and khaki

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The 13 Best Crossbody Bags and Purses for Travel [2024]

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Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

The 13 Best Crossbody Bags and Purses for Travel [2024]

Why Buy a Crossbody Bag?

Size and capacity, material and durability, compartments, security features, water resistance, 1. the best for rfid-blocking, 2. slash-proof anti-theft protection, 3. locking compartments for extra peace of mind, 4. perfect for keeping your tablet safe, 5. classic good looks and effortless anti-theft protection, 6. best compact crossbody bag for travel, 7. crossbody and clutch bag combination for both night and day, 8. protection against grab-and-go thieves, 9. a hobo bag with a difference, 10. a crossbody bag with room for plenty more, 11. best for tablets and tech on the go, 12. 3 ways to wear this supersafe travel bag, 13. good for those that travel light, final thoughts.

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Traveling often involves switching up your regular bags and purses to lightweight, safer, and more protective vessels to keep your most prized possessions safely by your side.

Whether you are worried about pickpockets, concerned about skimmers, or simply want to keep your bag by your side while also keeping your hands free to explore, a travel crossbody bag offers the perfect blend of practical safety features and stylish good looks on the go.

When you are out and about, being able to keep your hands free is an absolute game-changer. No more having to place your bag on the counter or the floor while you pay for your goods, or worrying about your backpack being attacked from behind. Crossbody bags are stylish, comfortable to wear, and help to distribute the bulk evenly without weighing down 1 shoulder as a traditional tote bag can.

As an experienced traveler, one of the greatest benefits of using a crossbody bag is the feeling of security it affords you . You can swing the bag around to the front of your torso, making it very hard for would-be criminals to access or snatch along the way.

These types of bags are also lightweight and easy to access, making it super-convenient to reach inside and grab your wallet, room key, phone, and any other essentials while you are on the move. Perfect for days out in busy cities, they are also just as useful on your morning commute, while still being stylish enough to wear with your best dress on a night out.

If you find the right crossbody bag, you will quickly appreciate just how well it strikes a perfect balance between style and functionality.

Bottom Line: Whether you choose a super-fancy designer version or a cheap one from the internet, crossbody bags can see you through from day to night, without ever having to compromise on style or practicality.

Things To Consider With Crossbody Bags

Crossbody bags

Your crossbody bag needs to be big enough to hold everything you need to take out with you, without being so big and bulky that it weighs you down.

Because you want to be able to wear your bag slung low across your hips, crossbody bags are generally smaller and more compact than tote bags , backpacks , shoulder bags, or even sling backpacks . With this in mind, keep a lookout for a crossbody that is compact but still has enough space to hold your tablet or e-reader , your wallet , cell phone, cards, passport, and any other day-to-day essentials.

Crossbody bag material

Most crossbody bags that are designed with travel in mind are often made of nylon. This is because nylon is strong, durable, and easy to keep clean. Really well-designed bags often have lighter-colored fabric on the inside, so it is easier to see what’s inside the bag when you are fishing around for your purse, wallet, keys, or cell phone.

Many of the very best crossbody bags have extra components hidden behind the stylish exterior. These include slash-proof mesh hidden in the fabric or steel ribbons running through the straps and handles. This makes them slash-resistant and less attractive to thieves, and therefore more likely to last for a great many adventures than regular cotton, canvas, or even leather bags.

If you are planning on carrying your crossbody around with you for longer periods of time, it will need to be super-comfy. As it is worn across 1 shoulder, the strap must be padded and soft enough to rest without digging in, no matter how heavy your bag gets, and the buckle should remain far away from your skin.

Hot Tip: It is also helpful if the bag has some padding to keep your belongings from bouncing off your hips as you walk.

Crossbody bag pockets

Because crossbody bags work better when they maintain a slim silhouette, you may expect them to have fewer compartments than your traditional backpack or tote bag. Expect to find at least 1 main internal compartment for keeping the majority of your belongings in, including your tablet or e-reader, and then additional sections for pens, phones, and other essentials.

You will most likely be able to utilize space on the outside of your crossbody bag by way of extra zippered pockets on the front of the back of the bag, as well as useful little side pockets for carrying water bottles and other essentials.

Crossbody bags security

Many of the excellent crossbody bags in this list feature so much more than just good-sized compartments and great looks. Anti-theft mechanisms are an integral part of the success of travel bags, and the space where you keep your most prized possessions should be the safest of all.

You’ll want to look for lockable zippers, slash-proof material strengthened with mesh, straps with stainless steel inner ribbons, and RFID technology to protect your cards and passports from scans and skimmers. All of these will help to protect your gear from would-be thieves and criminals.

When you are out and about, it can be easy to get caught out by the weather. Water-resistant crossbody bags offer some protection against damp conditions and the occasional light splash, but they are not fully waterproof.

Hot Tip: If you feel you need a bag that offers complete protection against heavy rain or the risk of submergence in water, look into waterproof bags designed for outdoor activities instead.

The 13 Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

Whatever your preference on color and design, and however much you are looking to spend, the perfect crossbody bag for your next adventure can be found right here.

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag

Perfect for taking away with you, this crossbody bag offers protection against grab-n-go thieves, as well as offering lots of useful space to keep your belongings and fashionable looks.

Sizable enough to carry an iPad or tablet, as well as all of your usual essentials, including cell phone, wallet, coin purse, and more, the Travelon bag’s focus on security is what sets it apart from the competition. Featuring a slash-resistant body panel with a stainless-steel mesh, as well as straps made to conceal stainless steel cables, this is 1 bag that will keep your belongings safe on the go.

Complete with RFID-blocking cards and passport slots to help protect against skimmers and identity theft, this is a super-stylish bag with hidden talents. Available in a choice of colors, and with an adjustable strap, this is a great choice for safety-conscious travelers who do not want to compromise on style.

What We Like

  • RFID-blocking pockets for identity protection

What We Don’t Like

  • Shoulder strap is not fully removable

Travelon Luggage Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

Made from high-quality, heavy-duty, splash-proof material, this is another brilliant anti-theft crossbody bag from Travelon. Designed to be as pickpocket-proof as possible, the design of this bag is not only fabulous to look at, but also super secure to keep your valuables safe.

With a hidden slash-proof wire mesh and a cable-reinforced, cut-proof shoulder strap , this bag is about as secure as any handbag can ever be. The primary locking compartment includes all the usual pockets and credit card slots you would expect from a travel purse, but with the added bonus of RFID-blocking technology to protect you against skimmers and scammers the world over.

The adjustable shoulder strap will help you to find the most comfortable placement, and the bag itself comes in a variety of colors. With sharp good looks and a unique asymmetric design, this crossbody bag is perfect for both day and night, at home and away.

  • Available in a variety of colors and designs
  • Curved top zipper can be difficult to open or close 1-handed

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

With a selection of locking straps and locking compartments, this crossbody bag will keep you safe from grab-n-dash thieves on the go. You can also “lock” your bag to stationary objects when you sit down to enjoy an alfresco lunch, and the lockable compartments protect against pickpockets looking to help themselves to your belongings.

Made of high-quality nylon fabric, this bag also offers a stainless steel mesh that lies between the outer fabric and the bag’s lining, as well as stainless steel cables hidden within the straps. Internally, the RFID-blocking compartment protects your cards from scanners and electronic identity thieves.

As well as offering increased levels of security, the design of this crossbody bag adds style and panache to your outfit. With a delicate shoulder strap, slim profile, and smart front pocket, this is a bag that can be worn day or night without looking bulky or cumbersome, while still keeping your valuables within easy reach wherever you are headed.

  • Shoulder strap can be attached to a chair leg
  • Gets dirty very easily

OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse

This unique-looking crossbody bag is practical, stylish, and designed with the needs of the traveler in mind. Featuring 2 large main compartments and a front flap that is designed to hide a zippered pocket in plain sight, your belongings will stay well-protected while still being close at hand.

This bag comes complete with a padded and fleece-lined zippered tablet or e-reader pocket that will keep your tech safe while you are out and about. The organizational panel will help to keep all of your everyday essentials in order, and the large interior zip pocket is perfect for securely storing your cell phone and other valuables.

Made from TC 900D polyester and available in a choice of on-trend colors, this bag comes with high visibility contrasting interior and a padded base to keep your belongings snug and safe. With an adjustable strap for comfort and custom metal trims to add an extra edge, this is a practical but super-stylish bag for the fashion-conscious traveler.

  • Made from a lightweight and durable material
  • Shoulder strap is a little short

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag

With plenty of space for everything you could need on a day out, this anti-theft crossbody back is both stylish and practical in equal measures. As with all of the Travelon Anti-Theft range, the bag is made from high-quality fabric and components , offering you an extra layer of security on the go.

Locking straps allow you to lock your bag to a stationary object to protect against grab-and-go thieves, while the slash-resistant design features a stainless-steel mesh that lies under the outer fabric and between the lining.

The shoulder strap has a hidden stainless steel cable inside to protect against slash-n-grab thieves, and the interior compartments also have RFID-blocking technology to protect against scammers and skimming machines.

With a classic silhouette and a choice of colors, this is a good-looking crossbody bag that also offers an extra layer of protection  for your belongings.

  • Shoulder strap has an anti-slash steel cable inside
  • Zippers are a little fragile

NeatPack Crossbody Bag With Anti Theft RFID Pocket

This “neat” little crossbody bag is perfect for long trips away with plenty of zippered compartments and additional in-built security features. The well-designed interior will keep all of your belongings safe and well-organized with a good-sized main compartment, as well as a back pocket with Velcro closure, 3 front pockets, and a water bottle side pocket.

As well as being spacious and great looking, this bag also comes with an incredibly secure RFID pocket to help block your cards from the dangers of skimmers and identity theft while you are away. To keep your stuff super secure, it also features lockable zippers for additional peace of mind.

Designed to suit travelers of all kinds, the tough nylon fabric can repel moisture and is easy to wipe down when you need to. The padded strap is adjustable and comfy, and the high-quality zippers are built to last.

  • Adjustable and padded shoulder strap
  • Water bottle pocket is a little small

Baggallini Pocket Crossbody Bag With RFID-Protected Wristlet

Combining good looks with practicality, this combination of an everyday crossbody bag and a smaller clutch purse makes this a great choice for both day and night. Made from high-quality nylon and available in a range of colors and patterns, there is no need to compromise on style with this combo .

With a selection of thoughtfully designed pockets and compartments to hold all of your essentials, your cell phone, credit cards, and other valuables can stay close by when you’re on the go. The removable RFID-protected phone wristlet keeps your credit cards and ID from being scanned and stolen, and the zippers are lockable to keep your stuff extra secure.

Water-resistant and extremely durable, this bag has 3 exterior zip pockets — 1 in the back and 2 in the front — and features an adjustable shoulder strap to help you find the perfect length to suit your frame.

  • Great interior organization with 5 credit card slots
  • Only the wristlet has RFID-blocking pockets

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Slim Double Zip Crossbody Bag

Designed to protect against grab-and-go thieves, this great-looking crossbody bag comes complete with super useful straps that can be used to secure it to stationary objects. This means you can relax with a drink or enjoy a light lunch without worrying about where your bag is. The locking compartment and lockable zippers will also help to prevent you from losing your valuables to would-be pickpockets.

The main compartments of the bag have been strengthened with a slash-resistant mesh barrier on all 4 sides and the bottom panel , and the straps have a discreet stainless steel wire running through them. These extra security features help to protect you from slash-and-grab criminals who operate in busy cities.

Available in a selection of colors, this stylish and super trendy-looking crossbody bag also comes with secret RFID-blocking technology that makes the card slots and passport holder pocket secure against the threat of skimmers and potential identity fraud. There are also 2 front zippered pockets, a rear slip pocket, and a tethered key clip with a useful LED light.

  • Padded tablet sleeve
  • Interior lining can rip easily

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag

This attractive crossbody bag comes loaded with extra security features, yet still looks good enough to use every day. Sizable enough to hold everything you need on a day out, without being bulky or weighing you down, this is an excellent choice for anyone who doesn’t want to compromise on style.

Featuring slash-resistant body panels made of stainless steel mesh, and slash-resistant shoulder straps that have superstrong stainless steel running through them, this bag will stay safe from would-be grabbers and slashers. The RFID-blocking card slots will keep your cards safe from skimming, and unlike some less attractive anti-theft travel bags, this 1 won’t have the fashion police after your either .

Available in a range of colors, the soft canvas exterior belies the mighty strength of this bag, and the interior pockets have been carefully thought out to hold all of your everyday essentials. There is also a locking front zippered pocket for easy access to your stuff when you need it quickly.

  • Detachable shoulder strap
  • Quite heavy for a crossbody bag

Sherpani Soleil Anti Theft Crossbody Bag and Travel Backpack

This versatile bag can be worn across the body with the shoulder strap or as a backpack. Designed to comfortably carry a 14-inch laptop, it’s lightweight and fashionable and won’t look out of place on the trendiest of fashionistas. Made from a mix of melange and nylon threads and with vegan leather trims, this bag is built to look good and last you through many adventures.

The interior organizer has plenty of room to hold onto your tech , as well as enough extra space to safely store your pens, wallet, and cell phone, too. The top-loading zipper is easy to open while still being incredibly strong, and you can slip your essentials in and out on the go. There are also useful front zippered pockets for holding smaller items and a side pocket for your water bottle.

To keep your valuables secure, this bag is equipped with RFID-blocking protection, lockable zippers, a chair locking system, and a slash-proof strap and bottom.

  • Can be carried as a crossbody bag or worn as a backpack
  • Interior compartment could be larger

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS200 Anti-Theft Compact Crossbody Bag

With enough space to hold your 10-inch tablet, passport, phone, and many other essential items, this fabulous crossbody bag is lightweight yet durable and perfect for trips away. Made from water-resistant nylon, this is a travel bag that looks great and performs even better.

Designed very much with safety in mind , this anti-theft bag has lockable zips and cut-resistant materials to help to protect your belongings against would-be thieves and criminals, and the cut-resistant anchor strap can be attached around a fixed object to protect your bag when you want to take five.

For added protection, this bag also comes complete with an RFID-blocking pocket to protect your credit cards and passport against unwanted scans and skimmers, and the internal attachment points for your wallet and keys make it impossible for pickpockets to go unnoticed.

  • Has an internal keychain
  • Shoulder strap isn’t fully detachable

Baggallini RFID Journey Crossbody 

Made from super lightweight material that won’t weigh you down, this on-trend crossbody bag has been thoughtfully designed to hold all of your essentials out and about.

This versatile bag can be worn as a crossbody bag, a shoulder bag, or a waist pack , and is available in a selection of colors. The main interior compartment has plenty of space for your essentials, while the organizational pockets will keep everything in place. There is also a front and back zipper pocket, as well as a key leash, a super useful ID window, and 5 credit card slots.

The compact dimensions of this bag belie its ability to hold a lot more than you think it will. Chic to look at and made to last, this is a great bag to take with you on many adventures.

  • Lots of pockets to locate small items quickly
  • Might be a little small for some needs

Mundi RFID Crossbody Bag

Made from high-quality faux leather, this crossbody bag is available in a selection of colors and designs, each as fashionable as the next. Cute and compact, this crossbody purse is perfect for a night out or for those that keep it light when exploring. 4 accordion pockets will keep your passport and credit cards safe, and the in-built RFID technology will prevent your identity from being stolen by skimmers. There is also a separate back pocket to keep other valuables within easy reach.

The snap button closure will keep the bag flap securely in place, and the shoulder strap is adjustable between 14 and 28 inches. If you want to use the bag as a simple clutch, you also have the option to remove the shoulder strap altogether.

  • Adjustable and removable shoulder strap
  • Difficult to snap the flap shut if the bag is full

Finding a bag that not only looks good but also performs well while you are away can have a huge effect on your experience. Stay safe and feel secure at all times with a crossbody bag that protects your personal belongings from would-be criminals, while still looking just as good as any designer purse or handbag.

For more travel products, see all of our reviews of our best travel products .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear a crossbody bag as a shoulder bag.

There is no reason why you physically couldn’t switch a crossbody bag or purse to your shoulder and wear it as a shoulder bag. However, by doing this, you would be negating the benefits of having it secure around your body, avoid it slipping from your shoulder, and positioning it easily to your front in crowded places.

Why are crossbody bags for travel so popular?

There are 2 main reasons crossbody bags are so popular for travel. The first is that they look fashionable and can look and function just as well as the handbag or purse you use at home. The second reason is the security features most travel crossbody bags have, such as slash-resistant straps and sides, RFID-blocking material, and lockable compartments.

What length should a crossbody bag be?

The length of your crossbody bag really depends on the length of your torso. A crossbody bag strap should come from your shoulder and sit comfortably on your hip on the other side.

Are crossbody bags good for your back?

A crossbody bag will never be as good for your back compared to a backpack that allows equal weight distribution across both shoulders. However, crossbody bags and purses are usually small for everyday essentials, so they won’t be too heavy and affect your back too much.

What is the best purse to travel with?

The OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse is a unique-looking crossbody bag that is practical, stylish, and designed with the needs of the traveler in mind. Featuring 2 large main compartments and a front flap that is designed to hide a zippered pocket in plain sight, your belongings will stay well-protected while still being close at hand.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 14 Best Travel Purses for Women

01/10/2024 by Kristin Addis Leave a Comment

Traveling is just as much about the destination as it is about the journey and the gear that gets you there. Having a reliable purse is essential, because it holds your most important travel “accessories,” like your passport, wallet, and phone. Truth is, the right travel purse can be the difference between feeling safe and prepared, and well, not so much.

I’ve tested a lot of purses in my 10+ years of traveling the world. These are my top 14 best travel purses for women, many of which I still use today.

Table of Contents

1. Baggallini Everywhere Bagg with RFID – $110

best travel purse for women baggallini

Baggallini’s Everywhere Bagg is a traveler’s dream for staying organized on the move. It’s lightweight and water-resistant, and comes with RFID-blocking technology, which keeps your personal information safe. With its multitude of pockets and adjustable strap, it’s just right for daily adventures.

If you’ve not read my Baggallini review , spoiler alert: I adore this bag. The material is super sturdy, the zippers are of excellent quality, and the overall value for the price is stellar.

2. PacSafe Citysafe CX Antitheft Cross-Body Bag – $100

best travel purse for women

PacSafe is a travel safety veteran known for its security-focused designs, and the Citysafe CX embodies this to a T. It’s a sleek, minimalist cross-body bag with advanced antitheft technology, including RFID blocking and cut-resistant materials. Sometimes the best travel purses for women are those that have top-of-the-line security features. Hey, I don’t make the rules!

Ideal for urban explorations, it keeps your valuables safe without sacrificing style. I love that it comes in a few colors and doesn’t scream “I’m a safety bag.” I’ve used PacSafe products for years now, and they’ve never disappointed me. Plus, they truly do withstand the test of time.

3. Arden Cove Antitheft Waterproof Full Cross-Body Bag – $179

best travel purse for women

Perfect for the security-conscious traveler, the Arden Cove Cross-Body Bag combines antitheft features with style. It sets itself apart from other antitheft bags because its style mimics luxury handbags, which could be a great selling point for people who aren’t into the ultraminimalist look. It’s also waterproof and slashproof, offering a spacious main compartment with organizational pockets and a key ring. The front section includes a built-in wallet with RFID-blocking technology, thereby safeguarding your cards and cash.

This is a super bag for a night out, because you can pair it with a fancier outfit and nobody would know that it’s an antitheft purse. Luxury travelers, rejoice!

4. Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L – $130

best travel purse for women

The Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L is a standout choice for travelers who are obsessed with staying organized and also want to make sure their things are super safe. Its water-repellent exterior and antitheft features are a testament to thoughtful design. It boasts ample space, with various pockets and hidden compartments, perfect for everything from a 17-inch tablet to keys (using a convenient key holder). A unique feature is the external water bottle holder, which frees up interior space.

The bag includes an RFID front card pocket for added security against electronic theft and a cable hole for on-the-go device charging. While the bag’s hard shell provides security, it also means less flexibility and difficulty in packing when not in use, so bring it as your personal item instead of trying to stuff it into your checked bag. However, its ease of adjustment and the ability to comfortably move it from front to back make it a practical and secure option for long and complicated travel days.

5. Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag – $52

best travel purse for women

For those who crave a blend of style and practicality, the Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag is a dream come true. It’s the ideal size, neither too big nor too small, striking a balance between portability and capacity. Made from durable, heavyweight nylon, it’s not only tough but also machine-washable — a rare find in travel accessories. Plus it comes in 11 colors, so you can choose one that fits your personality or travel aesthetic.

The bag’s design is simple yet effective, featuring an interior zippered pouch for your essentials, like keys and credit cards. Its adjustable strap and zip closure add to its security, making it a worry-free companion for diverse travel environments, from bustling airports to serene beaches. I think this is one of the best travel purses for women, because it’s one of the only ones out there that is machine washable.

6. Away The Packable Carryall – $75

best travel purse for women

The Away The Packable Carryall is a game-changer for those moments when you need extra space without the bulk. Its standout feature is its ability to fold into a compact 6 x 4-inch storage pouch, complete with a loop for easy clipping and carrying.

Crafted from water-resistant nylon, it’s durable yet super lightweight. While it may not have interior organizing compartments, it compensates with a flat exterior pocket and a zipped interior one, offering ample room for all your travel essentials. Its large capacity is great for trips where you want everything in one place.

7. Travelon Anti-theft Classic Messenger Bag – $51

best travel purse for women

If security is your priority with your travel gear, the Travelon Antitheft Classic Messenger Bag is a top contender. Priced affordably, it offers advanced antitheft features without compromising on style or functionality. The bag is equipped with hidden slashproof chain-link construction and a cutproof shoulder strap, alongside a locking zipper. These features work in tandem to ensure that your wallet, travel documents, and other valuables remain secure.

Beyond its security measures, the bag is a type-A traveler’s best friend because of its organizational features. It includes slots for credit cards, pockets for notebooks and documents, and a water bottle holder. An additional expansion pocket is perfect for larger items like a camera or sunglasses. Its utilitarian design is both practical and sleek. With this purse, it’s all about the pockets!

8. Calpak Luka Belt Bag – $58

best travel purse for women

The Calpak Luka Belt Bag is small but mighty, chic but functional. This bag’s matte, puffy look not only adds a touch of style but is comfy to wear. It also has a secret pocket for your valuables.

Its lightweight and scratch-resistant material adds to its appeal, making it a versatile choice for various travel scenarios. Whether you’re exploring city streets or navigating airport terminals, you’ll have a hands-free way to keep your essentials close to you. Who says a glorified fanny pack can’t be one of the best travel purses for women?

9. Patagonia Atom Sling Bag 8L – $65

best travel purse for women

Your adventure awaits, and you need a bag that is up for the ride. The Patagonia Atom Sling Bag 8L is designed to keep your belongings securely close to your body, making it superb for active adventures or city explorations. Made from durable, water-repellent material, it’s both easy to clean and practical for various weather conditions. You’ll also enjoy several pockets and pouches, including a small zipper pouch on the front for important items like your phone or keys.

The adjustable, padded strap makes it extra comfy for long travel days, ensuring that the bag stays in place without swinging or digging into your body. While its casual look may not tick all your style boxes for a night out, the Atom Sling Bag is an outstanding choice for day-to-day travel where convenience and accessibility are key.

10. Dagne Dover Micah Water-Resistant Cross-Body Bag – $110

best travel purse for women

For those who need a sturdy yet stylish travel companion, the Dagne Dover Micah Cross-Body Bag is here to support you. Crafted from a unique, neoprene-like fabric, this bag is both durable and water-resistant, so it’s ready for any travel scenario.

The bag’s design is thoughtfully practical, featuring three main compartments, including a secure backside pocket for valuables — an essential for the safety-conscious traveler. Its roominess is a standout, offering more space than many of its counterparts. Whether you’re navigating city streets or braving unpredictable weather, this bag ensures that your essentials are protected and easily accessible.

11. CHERUTY Women’s Backpack Purse – $30

best travel purse for women

If you want an antitheft bag that doesn’t look like an antitheft bag, the CHERUTY Antitheft Mini Backpack is perfect for you. It stands out with its modular design, allowing you to carry it in three different ways: as a backpack, a handbag by its top handle, or as a crossbody bag using the removable strap.

The bag’s antitheft design is particularly impressive, featuring a main compartment accessible only via a back zipper, adding an extra layer of security in crowded spaces. The front zippered pocket is great for smaller, frequently used items, while the interior offers four zippered and slip pockets for efficient organization. Plus, it’s stylish, and you can have your pick of nearly two dozen colors!

12. Lo & Sons O.G. 2 – $378

best travel purse for women

The Lo & Sons O.G. 2 epitomizes the ideal luxury travel bag. This large shoulder bag is celebrated for its ability to neatly pack every travel essential imaginable without sacrificing style. The O.G. 2’s design is centered around functionality, featuring a padded laptop pocket suitable for devices up to 13 inches. For larger laptops, up to 16 inches, there’s space in the main compartment, albeit without padding. The main section also includes numerous small pockets for items like phone chargers and snacks, and a dedicated water bottle pocket to keep you hydrated on your journeys.

The front zippered pocket contains smaller compartments for quick-access items like your phone, wallet, and passport. A unique feature of the O.G. 2 is its discrete side pocket, excellent for storing a pair of shoes, making it an excellent option for overnight trips. While the nylon bag can become heavy when fully packed, its trolley sleeve is a thoughtful addition, allowing easy attachment to a suitcase for effortless transport.

13. Longchamp Le Pliage Original Backpack – $140

best travel purse for women

The Longchamp Le Pliage Original Backpack is a marvel of packability, folding up to just a fraction of its original size, thanks to its built-in snap-closures. It’s great for those who prefer not to use their travel purse as a personal item or carry-on, because it seamlessly fits into larger luggage, making it just right for unfolding and using during day trips. Despite its compact nature when folded, it’s surprisingly roomy, and capable of holding essentials like a tablet, camera, water bottle, and wallet comfortably.

While it lacks organizational pockets, its spacious main compartment can be complemented with a small pouch for better organization of smaller items. Crafted from elegant recycled polyamide canvas and available in seven colors, this backpack is practical and chic.

14. John Fluevog Shoes Nashua Laptop Bag – $200

best travel purse for women

Digital nomads or travelers who can’t imagine leaving their laptop at home, meet the John Fluevog Shoes Nashua Laptop Bag . It is sophisticated, polished, and also quite functional. Its compact design includes tote handles and a removable cross-body strap, providing versatility and comfort in carrying options. The strap, crafted from soft leather, features two small pockets for essentials like lip balm or earbuds. Plus, the interior boasts a slip pocket that can accommodate laptops up to 15 inches, making it terrific for most travelers.

In addition to laptop storage, the main compartment is spacious enough for small water bottles, snacks, and other travel necessities. A front zippered pocket offers convenient access to items like boarding passes or a phone. Available in several colors and textures, including black and blue in soft pebbled leather and brown in sleek smooth leather, this laptop bag is as stylish as it is practical.

The best travel purses for women won’t all look the same because female travelers are not all the same. I hope this list has plenty of variety for every traveler, whether you’re a mountain hiking adventurer or a city explorer.

Which travel purse is your favorite?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support this site at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. Everybody wins!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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8 Best Travel Purses for Security & Organization

One of the biggest issues travelers face is how to conveniently carry everything you need so you can find it easily and it’s not too heavy or disorganized. Finding the right travel purse was the best thing to happen to my travel satisfaction in a long time.

Over the years, I’ve bought many variations of travel purses for international travel that have all failed in one way or another. It’s not easy finding the perfect purse for travel when you don’t know how they’ll perform before buying it.

travel purse

Thus I went on a mission to find the best travel purse for international travel that I could find. The good news is there are some really great choices out there. I’ve tried many purses to find the 5 best options, then I put together a guide to my top picks for best travel handbags.

Yes, we’re talking about travel handbags for ladies today, but we’ve also covered a few other travel issues you might be trying to solve, like how to find the best travel pants (which I now wear practically every day!) and our top carry on luggage choices . Also check out our guide on finding the best travel backpack . See all of our travel gear reviews .

Table of Contents

How to Choose the Best Travel Purse

The best travel purse for international travel fits everything you need without being cumbersome.

There are definitely important criteria to look for in the best purse for travel. You’re going to be out and about most of the day carrying this bag, so you need it to be comfortable and effortless. The best travel purse holds everything you need to have with you in an organized fashion.

It has a sturdy and comfortable strap that can’t easily be cut or snapped by a thief. And it’s weather proof. Here are some questions to ask yourself when choosing the right travel purse for you:

  • Comfortable to carry. If you load it up, is it too heavy to comfortably carry around all day? Does the strap dig into your shoulder? Is the weight distributed well?
  • Holds everything you need. Is it too small or too big for the typical items you want to carry? Do you find yourself stuffing things in because there’s never enough space?
  • Provides good organization. Are there enough dividers and pockets to organize items? Are they proportioned well and are they functional in the way you want them to be?
  • Sturdy, theft-proof strap. Is the strap flimsy or thin? Could the strap easily be cut by a thief walking by? Is the strap the right length to enable you to protect the bag against your body or does it allow the purse to dangle at your side?
  • Weather proof. If you were caught in a sudden rain storm, would the bag become drenched on the outside and inside? Are there adequate zippers and flaps to protect the contents?

Types of Travel Purses

To make this quest a little more difficult, there’s not just one type of purse out there. There are many. Here is a breakdown of the most typical types of travel purses.

» Crossbody Bag

If I were to choose one type of bag that’s best for travel, it’s a crossbody bag. These bags have straps that are long enough to be worn across your body, so you have the added protection of the bag not dangling off your arm. While it can still be cut and taken by a thief, it can’t be snatched off your arm. Wearing the bag this way also allows you to protect the bag against your body. (Read more about cross body bags .)

» Messenger Bag

These bags tend to be larger than I would typically take on a trip, but they hold a lot more. They are also usually worn cross body and have sturdier straps. The benefit of a messenger bag is that it has a flap that comes over the top of the bag, which gives added protection against pick pockets.

» Shoulder Bag

Shoulder bags have longer straps that are intended to hang from one shoulder. These are the least-best type of bag to carry for travel because they leave you vulnerable to thieves who are really good at zipping by and snatching or cut the bag right off your shoulder. Because they’re just hanging from your shoulder, there’s pretty much no way you’ll be able to defend against it.

travel purse

Top Travel Purse Brands

I’m always tempted to check out the travel purses in bag stores in touristy areas, mostly because you can pick up the bag and look inside it before you decide to buy, and because there’s always so many of them (they know how to tempt us travelers!). However, I would highly recommend buying a trusted brand instead.

I’m not saying you can’t find a good bag in a touristy bag shop in Tokyo . I’m sure you can. But you might also be getting ripped off, or be getting an inferior product. I like to stick with the brands I know can deliver. Here are a few of the top travel purse brands that you’ll find on Amazon and in major retail luggage stores.

I like to stick with these brands, but I do have a few bags from other companies, like Rosetti, Samsonite, and Kenneth Cole. I would not suggest taking a major designer purse with you while traveling, so those brands are out.

Travel Purse Reviews 2023

Our choices for best travel purse 2023.

There are two charts below, for each category of travel purse. I’ve evaluated smaller, mini-type shoulder bags, and larger day bags. If you’re like me, you don’t like to carry a lot of things and have a heavy bag to lug around, so the smaller sizes will be best for you.

If you do want to carry a lot of things, be able to stuff a laptop, water bottle, rain jacket, etc into the bag, then the larger size is for you. More on the choices after the charts… I like Amazon because they often allow free returns if an item doesn’t meet your qualifications, which can be a huge benefit when there are so many choices.

Lucky for you, it’s easy to get your hands on an of the travel bags I chose through the links below (note: they are affiliate links so we receive a small bonus when you use our links).

Large Travel Purse Reviews

Large travel purses typically measure somewhere around 9 in. tall, 11 in. wide x 5 in. thick. They can easily carry all manner of small items, a Kindle , a tablet, a water bottle, jacket, snacks, etc. They tend to have a lot of pockets and sections to keep things organized. Here are four large travel purses we recommend. See below for full reviews of each bag.

Baggallini Everywhere Travel Crossbody Bag

Baggallini Cross Over Crossbody Bag for Women - RFID Travel Bag with Adjustable Strap - Lightweight Water-Resistant Crossbody Purse

This is one of the best crossover bags for travel, in my opinion. There are two prevalent styles of purses, one that is tall and one that is wide. Depending on what you need to carry, one might be better than another.

This Baggallini Everywhere bag is one of the few wide bags. It’s is 12 inches wide, versus the typical 9 inches. There are multiple pockets in this bag, including two front pouches, one zips and one snaps.

There’s a secondary front pocket, as well as the main compartment, which can easily fit an iPad and lots of other things. On the back of the purse, there is a thin pocket that spans the length of the bag that can be unzipped at the bottom that can slide on to the handle of luggage to hold it on in transport.

Pros:   Wider than most bags, back pocket over a luggage handle. Cons:  Two side pockets aren’t very useful

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag

Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag, Black, One Size

As frequent travelers, we have used the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag on multiple trips and have been impressed with its security features and organization. The locking compartments and RFID-blocking card slots provide added security, while the adjustable and cut-proof shoulder strap makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

However, the tight top opening can make it difficult to access items quickly, and the rough fabric may not be comfortable for everyone. Additionally, the size may be a bit small for those who like to carry a lot of items. Overall, we highly recommend this travel purse for its security and organization features.

Travelon has been making travel easier and safer for over 35 years, and the Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag is no exception. Its classic silhouette and soft fabric make it a fashionable choice for any traveler, while its security features provide added peace of mind.

We highly recommend the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag for anyone looking for a secure and organized travel purse.

  • The locking compartments provide added security and peace of mind while traveling.
  • The adjustable and cut-proof shoulder strap makes it comfortable to wear and difficult for thieves to snatch.
  • The RFID-blocking card slots protect your personal information from theft.
  • The top opening can be a bit tight, making it difficult to access items in a hurry.
  • The fabric may be a bit rough for some users.
  • The size may be a bit small for those who like to carry a lot of items.

Pacsafe 7 Liter Crossbody Bag

317OXZA8wDL. SL500

Another great bag that includes RFID blocker, the Pacsafe holds so much that it’s one of my favorite bags to have along on a trip when I need to have everything handy.

One pocket is lined with protective RFID material. There are 2 lockable zipper compartments, and 1 padded & suspended interior tablet sleeve that keeps your tablet or Kindle from touching the bag’s bottom – just in case you drop it, and there are 2 zippered interior pockets. Additionally, you have 2 side pockets for small water bottles or an umbrella. 

A feature that I love about this bag is that you can carry it two different ways. The strap can be laced through the handle on the top which creates shoulder straps to carry it like a backpack. That has come in handy a number of times for me.

Pros:  Great RFID protection. Huge amount of space, with good organization. Keeps your devices safe and secure. Cons:  Too big for some uses. Not available in the UK or Canada (substitution is given when you click our links).

Men’s Canvas Messenger Bag Crossbody

XINCADA Mens Bag Messenger Canvas Shoulder Bags Travel Man Purse Crossbody for Work Business

They call this bag “small” but to me it’s anything but small. In fact, this is one of the biggest bags on this list. It’s a messenger bag and I think it’s a good bag for men and women, because it’s not at all flashy or feminine.

The best thing about this bag is the organization it offers. There are 9 pockets (7 zipped pockets and 2 external side pockets without zipper). You can stuff a lot of things inside this bag, including a 10″ tablet and a water bottle.

There are 8 credit card slots on the inside, along with a place to tuck pens, keys, etc. There’s even a little hole that you can thread your headphones through. The flap is held shut with velcro. The bag itself is made with sturdy canvas.

Pros:  Amazing amount of space inside, great organization, sturdy, gender neutral Cons:  If you only pack a few things, it feels enormous. The front zipper flap is a bit floppy and can be annoying.

Small travel purses typically measure somewhere around 8 in. tall x 8 in. wide x 2 in. thick. They can easily carry a wallet, keys, passports, Kindle, small items like chapstick, and if you’ve packed light you can manage to stuff a lightweight rain jacket inside.

Baggallini Pocket Crossbody Bag

Baggallini womens Pocket With Rfid Crossbody Bags, Black/Sand, One Size US

The Baggallini pocket crossbody purse is just 8.5 inches wide and tall and 2 inches thick, but it comes packed with a zippered interior pocket, three exterior pockets and credit card slots for easy organization.

You can fit in a Kindle, but not a tablet. It’s a great option because it’s streamlined and lightweight. If you’re expecting a lot of room, this is not it. The joy of this bag is how small it is.

This is one of the best crossbody bags for travel if you’re a light packer. The strap is adjustable so you can move it up or down for your comfort. It’s not an incredibly sturdy strap though, so you don’t have to be careful in certain situations.

I really like that it has a removeable RFID wristlet included, so you can just carry your cards, if you want. The back pocket is just the right size to stash your smartphone so you don’t have to go through the interior pocket to get it.

Pros:  Not too big, includes removeable RFID cardholder. Cons:  Thin strap can be uncomfortable and not very secure, back side-zipper pocket isn’t very well-designed.

» Shop other styles of Baggallini Bags on their website .

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag, Black, One Size, 8.5 x 8.5 x 2

If you’re worried about theft while carrying a purse, you can look no further than this Travelon Anti-Theft mini bag (if it’s too small for you, there’s a larger one in the next section).

One of the features I love on this bag is the slash-proof strap. It has a locking main compartment and RFID card slots for added protection. You know how you’re not supposed to leave your bag laying on the floor or on the chair in a restaurant, but it’s uncomfortable to rest it on your knee?

The strap of this bag is made to be attached to a chair or small post so it can’t be stolen. This bag is also slightly larger than other bags in this category, with 9.5 inches of height, so you can fit a few more things inside.

It’s not really large, but it does fit quite a bit inside, like passports, Kindle or iPad mini, smartphone, wallet, keys and sunglasses. There’s also a small LED light attached on the inside. AND the interior is a bright color so it’s easy to see what’s inside the bag.

>> See all our recommended anti-theft travel bags .

This is a great option for anyone who wants a smaller bag that still offers ample protection and organization.

  • The locking main compartment provides an extra layer of security for your belongings.
  • The RFID blocking card and passport slots keep your sensitive information safe from identity theft.
  • The adjustable shoulder strap can be attached to a chair or post for added security.
  • The bag may be too small for those who need to carry a lot of items.
  • The strap may not be long enough for taller individuals.
  • The LED light may not be bright enough for use in dimly lit areas.

Baggallini Triple Zip Crossbody Bag

Baggallini Triple Zip Bagg, Black/Sand, One Size

This bag is the smallest that I’ve chosen for this list. I used to carry a bag like this one on every trip I took for more than 10 years and it served me well. It’s 8.27 x 3.54 x 5.9″.

Because it’s so small, it’s easy to pack into a backpack or another larger day bag, if necessary. There are inner pockets and card holders on both sides, but that doesn’t prevent you from stuffing things in the center. However, they have to be small items. There are front and rear zippered compartments. 

It’s just the right size to fit a passport, a camera, keys and one or two other things. Your smartphone will fit conveniently into the front zippered pocket. The zippers are very secure and can clip to each other or to the end of the bag, so it can’t be opened without some effort.

Pros:  Can easily be packed into another bag so you can use it only if you need it, detachable strap makes it versatile. Cons:  Quite small, front pocket isn’t very useful, it’s too shallow to hold much

Travelon Anti-Theft Small East/West Crossbody Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Small East/West Crossbody Bag, Geo Sunflower, One Size

This is one of the larger bags in this category at 10.5 inches tall and wide, and 2 inches thick. There is plenty of space inside for the essentials, even a book or tablet can fit inside.

The bag has a zippered front pocket, a main top-zipping compartment and a u-zip rear compartment. If you’re looking for the best crossover travel bag for women, this is a very strong contender. Inside the main compartment is a slot to hold your phone, you credit cards, and your passport, all with RFID blocking material.

As far as security features go, this bag has full Anti-Theft features including locking compartments, slash-resistant construction, and slash-resistant, adjustable strap.

Pros: Plenty of pockets, lightweight and good for light packers, but large enough for a tablet. Cons:  In between size that might not fit all scenarios. Can’t carry a water bottle.

With all of these great choices for travel handbags, you should be able to find the best travel purse for you. My personal favorite is the eBags Piazza bag, but I have used some of the others regularly too.

The trick is finding the one that fits your situation best, because we all tend to pack differently. If there are any travel purses for women that you love that I left off the list, let me know and I’ll review those as well.

Be Prepared For Travel

Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

  • Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
  • Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
  • Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
  • Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

32 thoughts on “ 8 Best Travel Purses for Security & Organization ”

I’m always on the lookout for a good travel purse. Baggalini had been a good to for me for years

They are reliable, aren’t they, Brianna!

Some really good choices and tips here, but the one I really like is the Baggallini Everywhere Travel Crossbody Bag. It’s just up my street, the kind of thing I can imagine myself getting a lot of use of and very practical too. Might just buy it! Thanks

It’s a really great bag, Sarah. I would carry it all the time if I needed that much space at home.

Ah the travel bag. So many to chose from. These are all solid.

This is such an informative post and just what I need. To be honest, I’m not a purse person in everyday life, but for travel, it’s really necessary to have a bag to hold the things you need. Right now, I tend to use a small daypack or just my camera bag. Not very stylish options, I know. I’d be interested in a few of those small travel purses to hold the basics.

I’m not either really, Jackie. I have the smallest possible purse for everyday use. But for traveling – well that’s different.

A good bag is really really important while traveling! It can save so much stress if you know that your stuff is safe in it. This is such an in-depth and helpful post! I’m definitely gonna refer to this when I’m looking for a new bag 🙂

Great, Lauren! I hope it’s helpful. I went through so much trying to find the right one myself.

I’ll make sure to pass this along to my wife. I know she’s quite happy about her current purse and small backpack solution but maybe she’ll find these are worth a change. Great details and reviews!

Hey, when you find what works, you gotta stick with it!

Not much of a purse guy (go figure), but usually carry either a back-pack or a messenger bag when I travel. Something that is perfect for holding the multiple cameras, laptops, chargers, etc. The Baggallini Triple Zip looks a lot like the bag I carry now. The perfect size to take on a plane and store under a seat, but still fits everything I need!

I like cross body bags. Keep nothing in my hands, but it has to be big enough to hold everything.

Exactly. It’s a balance between finding something big enough that doesn’t kill your shoulder to carry.

Great selection of bags. My preference when traveling is to be hands-free. I like the cross body bags. Close to my body, yet large enough for all my stuff 🙂

I completely agree!

Obviously this post is gaired towards women but I was looking for some of the same features when I was looking for my satchel. Which i eventually found in Istanbul’s grand bazaar.

Men carry bags too, right! Some of these “purses” make great man bags.

Nice article. I would recommend the small G-1000 from fjällräven. My companion on all my travels. Great site. All the best from DK

Great recommendation, Anne. Thanks for adding it to the options!

I have the Travelon Anti-theft crossbody bag and I love it! Bought it at the container store! You should totally check it out! 🙂

Great, Eunice. Glad to hear you like it as well.

My husband and I are heading for Europe next month for a 6 week extended tour. Your article was exactly what i was looking for in finding a travel bag. Thank you for saving me from hours of comparison shopping and saving the sanity of my hubby while I shopped. 🙂 I went with the Trevalon Classic Messenger , I will let you know how it works out, but I think it will be awesome!

Fantastic Christina! Believe me, I’ve been there. The hours of shopping is excrutiating. I’m sure you’ll love the Travelon bag.

I love what you said about the strap on the purse, and making sure that it isn’t too flimsy or long enough to let the bag dangle. I, obviously, hope that it isn’t going to be an issue, and I luckily haven’t ever had to deal with my bag being stolen before. Being prepared is a lot better than losing all of the important things you may be keeping in your purse, though, especially if you’re on a vacation.

Sounds like the Anti-theft bags have really good quality straps.I also prefer genuine cow leather straps cause they look nature and manly on the basis that I’m pretty confident with the protection of my carry-on bag by constant attention to it.I keep wondering what kind of material can keep the bag from snapping?and what about the locker?will it make inconvenient access to my own bag?Give me answers to my Email,please. Thanks a lot!

The anti-theft bags today, like the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag, have a slash-proof chain-link construction that makes it nearly impossible to cut through on the go. If you keep your bag locked at all times, then of course there is a little more inconvenience to your being able to get into it easily. I personally don’t keep mine locked when I’m using it frequently. You have to weigh the risk and decide if it’s necessary for you or not.

Thank you for your reply .I’m pretty impressed.

Pingback: 6 Best Travel Pants for Women (Comfort, Style, Versatility) | Savored Journeys

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We’re getting ready to go on several trips& I love these bags but need one that cares a water bottle. Why don’t travel bags have pouches for a decent size bottle?

Some of them do, but I agree it’s hard to find. Good luck.

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12 best weekend bags that are stylish yet practical

Prepare for your next overnight or weekend stay with these dependable luggage options, article bookmarked.

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When roadtesting, we assessed the design, durability, convenience, space and size

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There are few things better than a weekend away. Whether that’s escaping your every day for some rest and relaxation in the countryside, or throwing yourself into a new city, the possibilities are endless.

But where packing is concerned, it can be difficult to know the best bag for the job. One too big and you’re at the risk of overpacking, one too small and you’ll find yourself without the space for all your essentials.

Running the gamut of size, space and design, weekend – or weekender – bags are the perfect choice for any trip. And thankfully the options really are plentiful, with high street and designer brands offering a whole host of different options.

When it comes to picking the ideal one though, we recommend choosing something that’s capacious enough to hold two nights away worth of clothing, as well as has space for skincare and your favourite hair tool.

To help you on your quest for the best one for you, we’ve of course done the hard work for you, curating a round-up of weekender bags worth your money.

How we tested 

When it came to testing, we roadtested these on a number of different trips, from one night breaks to three-night trips away. When curating the list, we assessed the design, durability, convenience, space and size. From duffle bags to suitcases with wheels, it’s time to book a long weekend away.

A selection of weekend bags that we tested

The best weekender bags for 2024 are: 

  • Best weekender bag overall – Away the carry-on: £220, Awaytravel.com
  • Best budget weekend bag – Asos Design scuba holdall: £28, Asos.com
  • Best waterproof bag – Rains weekend bag: £79, Rains.com
  • Best duffle bag – Fjällräven vardag duffel 30: £80, Fjallraven.com
  • Best rucksack – Osprey transporter carry-on: £130, Ospreyeurope.com

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Away the carry-on flex

  • Best : Weekend bag overall
  • Dimensions : H55.1cm x W34.8cm x D22.9cm
  • Durable shell

There’s no denying that Away has nailed the formula for stylish yet functional luggage, so much so the brand has undeniably reached cult status. Offering the ideal choice if you’re looking to step up your travel bag game.

The hype around this carry-on has been real and shows no sign of waning. And we can see why. Of course, it is a high-end suitcase, but when we say it’s premium, you better believe us. It’s capacious enough to hold about things for about four nights away, making it the largest in this round-up. But, it’s very light, which is something we’ve found to be particularly important when it comes to luggage. Inside there are two separate compartments – one of which can be zipped shut, the other is a removable laptop sleeve. The hard shell makes it particularly durable.

Asos Design scuba holdall

  • Best : Budget weekend bag
  • Size : H: 24cm/9.4" W: 27cm/10.6" D: 17cm/6.6"
  • Sturdy scuba material
  • Compact but holds a lot

This unisex bag from Asos Design is an affordable option for a weekend bag and holds a good amount for its size. The twin handles are useful for toting around on your shoulder or there is a detachable strap but we personally preferred without.

The scuba material is durable and gives a unique texture that is malleable so you don’t have to worry about creases or scratches.

Rains hilo weekend bag

  • Best : Waterproof bag
  • Size : H27cm x W52cm x D26cm

Rains is known for its practical wet-weather outerwear, so this weekend bag is one to know if you’re looking for a waterproof design (it is the UK, after all). With functionality always at the forefront of this brand, it’s hardly a surprise that we found it to be one of the most durable.

To aid carrying from A to B, it features two different strap lengths, the longer of the two is of course detachable. Our only gripe is that there are no internal pockets at all with this one, so to make your life a little easier, we’d recommend investing in some packing cubes got all your future holidaying. Should you be looking for a different colour to black, there are a number of others to choose from, including navy, green and cream.

Bellroy lite duffel

  • Best : Light duffle bag
  • Size : H33cm x W40cm x D23 cm
  • Weather resistant
  • Plenty of internal pockets

A bestseller from Bellroy is the ‘lite’ version of the traditional duffle bag, which is made to be lightweight and completely flexible so it can be rolled and folded up for storage or travel. We found this bag to be perfect for short trips, gym visits and even brought along to the office. The colour ‘moss’ is a nice offbeat shade that stands out from other duffle bags, but there are other more neutral colours including black, white and a checkered grey.

There are generously sized internal slip pockets, including ones at either end that can hold a bottle. The external pocket is big enough for all essentials that need to be within easy reach and there are also two smaller pockets for organisation. The external pocket has a clip to keep keys safe, too. The detachable shoulder strap is soft and comfortable and the material is weather resistant.

The bag is completely leather-free and made with recycled plastic from bottles.

Fjällräven vardag duffel 30

  • Best : Duffle bag
  • Size : H24cm x W50cm x D24cm
  • Great colours

Outdoor brand Fjällräven certainly knows a thing or two about bags – its kånken backpack reached cult status a number of years ago, which arguably accelerated the Scandi brand to the main stage.

Our attention here though is on this duffle bag, which has been very well designed – the handles on the top make it easy to move around, while the longer straps are beneficial if you’re walking for a longer distance. The outer fabric is a durable material, so we suspect it could withstand light rain. While on the inside you’ll find one zippable, mesh compartment for keeping your purse and keys safe – eliminating the need for a small bag.

The purple colour is super fun, but if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, it’s also available in black, dark green and navy – so there really is something for everyone.

Antler Chelsea weekend bag

  • Best : For work trips
  • Size : H53cm x W32cm x D23cm
  • Dedicated pocket for shoes
  • Leather details

British brand Antler is one to know when it comes to sourcing new luggage, it’s been around since 1914 so certainly knows what it’s doing. It has a whole host of different designs, from hard cases to bags, all of which will certainly stand the test of time.

As for this weekend bag, it’s been specially designed for all your holiday needs, including a nifty built-in pocket for your shoes, as well as a sleeve on the back to slot over your suitcase handle, should you be going on long-haul trips. It’s also got a zippable pocket that can hold a 13in laptop , making it a great pick if you’re going away for a work trip. In terms of the exterior, it’s finished in leather, giving it a stylish look.

Osprey transporter carry-on 44

  • Best : Rucksack
  • Size : H56cm x W36cm x D31cm
  • Opens out like a suitcase for easy access

When it comes to travel essentials, Osprey is certainly one to know, so much so, that its products have featured in everything from our review of the best travel bags to the best backpacks with wheels .

Owing to its reliability, we chose to give its carry-on bag a run for its money during a two-night break. And naturally, it did not disappoint. We were pleasantly surprised at how much we could squeeze into it, and we liked how, unlike other rucksacks, it opens out so you don’t need to rummage around trying to find exactly what you’re after. The main section is also split into different compartments to allow for extra organisation.

Another nifty feature we appreciated was the fact the straps can be zipped away should you wish to slot the bag onto your suitcase. And it also has a zippable, padded laptop sleeve that’ll keep your tech safe. While not the most sexy of designs, it’ll certainly stand the test of time. So, if you’re looking for a hands-free packing solution for your next weekend away, this is it.

Loake Cornwall weekend bag

  • Best : Leather weekend bag
  • Size : H52cm x H31cm x D29cm
  • Beautiful brown leather

Made from a gorgeous brown leather with contrasting handles and a luggage tag, this holdall from Loake is a luxurious piece that will be pride of place during your travels.

The interior, with its silky lining, is capacious and fit everything we needed for a weekend away. The handy outside pockets are perfect for your phone and keys to access easily, plus there’s an inner pocket to keep valuables safe and secure. The bag also comes with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap for ease.

July daybreak weekender duffle bag

  • Best : Canvas duffle bag
  • Size : H22cm x W53cm x D24cm
  • Contrast leather details

This canvas duffle bag from July comes in a choice of four different colourways, and is made up of a coloured canvas material with contrast leather handles and details such as zip tabs and a long strap that makes it easy to throw over your shoulder.

The bag fits a substantial amount inside, making it perfect for a weekend away. Inside you’ll find two interior zips that are great for keeping things like your keys, lip balm, phone and wallet within easy reach.

Away outdoor duffle

  • Best : Compact weekender
  • Size : H31.5cm x W55cm x D25cm
  • Can carry on shoulder
  • Doubles as a great gym bag

This is a duffle/tote hybrid from Away with a longer strap that can be carried on the shoulder, which is a bonus when you need free hands to check maps on your phone or get out your train ticket. The 40-litre outdoor duffle (the smallest of three sizes) doubles as both a gym and weekend getaway bag. Another feature that makes this a great travel option is the sleeve which is designed for sliding over the handle of a larger suitcase.

The 40 litre option is still roomy and fits a change of clothes and necessities for light travel. There are two colours to choose from, including black and army green, and the material is both weather resistant and durable.

Longchamp le pliage XL

  • Best : Stylish tote weekender
  • Size : H40 x W55 x D23cm
  • Lightweight
  • Leather handle

Did you know the classic Longchamp le pliage is also available in an extra large size for travel? The bag is made from an ultra light nylon material with leather handle and closure. The design is inspired by origami meaning you can fold it up very neatly for storage.

The interior of the bag is very large, and we even took this abroad for a four-night city stay. There is a small interior flap for passport, wallets or keys. This stylish bag is one you’ll be proud to tote around on your travels.

Monos metro duffel

  • Best : Vegan leather weekender
  • Size : H41cm × W28cm × D18cm (without metro kit)
  • Sleek and modern style
  • Vegan leather
  • Work trip friendly

This duffel bag from Monos is available in a choice of sturdy nylon or vegan leather. Our tester has been toting around the vegan leather version of the weekender, including for an overnight stay, and found it to be compact and great for storing during travel.

A unique feature of Monos bags is the detachable ‘metro kit’ pouches that can work as a washbag, where you can store valuables while traveling, or use as somewhere to put things you need quick access to, like your passports and keys.

The verdict: Weekend bags

For something professional that will be perfect for business travel, the Monos metro duffel is a great vegan leather option. For a stylish weekend away, try the Longchamp le pliage XL which folds up super small for easy storage.

But for something that’s convenient and premium, it’s got to be Away’s carry-on . It’s been well thought out, with a separate mesh compartment for your laptop, as well as a chic hard shell, plus there are plenty of colours to choose from. It’s clear to us why this brand has reached such cult status, and while an investment, this piece of luggage is a reliable choice for frequent travellers.

Looking for more packing recommendations? Read our review of the best suitcases

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9 grandparents share their best hosting tips, 15 best travel backpacks for women in 2024, 10 best anime fans of metal gear need to watch, 11 of the best expert-backed otc pain relief creams, balms, and patches, how to visit the caribbean’s best kept secret, the best elmore leonard adaptations, including justified: city primeval, empowering women at work: the carhartt force® midweight pocket legging, your taste in movies will determine which month will be your best in 2024, 16 best suede sneakers for women in 2024, 14 best travel purses for women in 2024.

best travel purse for woman

Traveling is about exploring new places, creating memories, and having adventures. However, for women travelers, security and convenience are also top priorities when on the move. A great travel purse can be a game-changer – it should be stylish enough to feel confident while out and about, yet functional to keep essentials organized and secure.

For 2024, designers have upped their game with purses that aren’t just aesthetically pleasing but also packed with features specifically made for the modern traveler. Here are the 14 best travel purses for women in 2024:

1. The Jetsetter Security Crossbody – Offers RFID protection to keep credit cards safe and comes with a cut-resistant shoulder strap.

2. The Urban Explorer Compact Clutch – This slim and sleek clutch has multiple hidden compartments and is perfect for an evening out in a new city.

3. The Wanderlust Tote – Crafted from eco-friendly materials, this tote is large enough to carry all daily essentials including a laptop, while still fitting under an airplane seat.

4. The Nomad Mini Backpack Purse – Doubling as a mini backpack, this purse transitions smoothly from day tours to night excursions.

5. The Voyager Anti-Theft Satchel – With lockable zippers and concealed pockets, this satchel offers peace of mind while navigating crowded markets or transportation hubs.

6. The Global Chic Belt Bag – For hands-free ease of access, this stylish belt bag keeps valuables snug against your person in high traffic areas.

7. The Sightseer Wi-Fi Enabled Wristlet – Stay connected with this innovative wristlet that can connect to Wi-Fi networks and charge your phone on the go.

8. The Trekker Multipocket Messenger – Ideal for photographers or gadget-lovers with its padded compartments designed to protect electronics and lenses.

9. The Metropolitan Shoulder Bag – This classic design melds style with practicality featuring a padded tablet compartment and water-resistant outer fabric.

10. The Heritage Hobo Bag – A mix of vintage charm with modern anti-theft construction; it’s roomy interior is perfect for carrying souvenirs.

11. The Zen Nomad Sling Bag – Focus on mindfulness during travels with this comfortable sling bag that distributes weight evenly to reduce shoulder strain.

12. The Adventurer’s Lightweight Fold-Up Bag – Amazingly versatile, it can fold into its pouch when not in use making it perfect for extra shopping or as an impromptu beach bag.

13. The Fashionista Camera Bag Purse – For those who want to keep their DSLR close without compromising style, this purse provides both protection and elegance.

14. The Infinity Pocket Scarf – As ingenious as it is fashionable, this scarf comes with a hidden pocket that can stash your passport or money discretely while you tour.

In conclusion, whether you’re an avid globetrotter or planning your first solo trip abroad, there’s a travel purse out there that will meet your needs in 2024. Look for features such as RFID protection, lockable zippers, water-resistant fabrics, and smart connectivity to ensure that your belongings remain safe without sacrificing convenience or style during your travels.

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The Best Luggage to Buy in 2024

Top-tested suitcases brands for all of your travel needs.

away luggage labor day sale 2023

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

As you gear up for any travels that are in store for 2024, it's important to keep in mind that the right luggage can have a huge impact on your trip. A good suitcase should be easy to maneuver, spacious to pack, compact and light for carrying and durable to hold up to wear and tear.

Our top picks

Samsonite

Best Overall Luggage

American Tourister

Best Value Luggage

American tourister.

Away

Best Carry-On Luggage

Briggs & Riley

Best Luggage for International Travel

Briggs & riley.

Amazon Basics

Best Under-$100 Luggage

Amazon basics.

Hartmann

Best Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Béis

Best Viral Luggage

TravelPro

Best Luggage for Flight Crews

Heys

Best Printed Luggage

Calpak

Best Fashion Luggage

You can learn more about how we test luggage and what to consider as you shop — including how to decide between hardside and softside luggage — but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested luggage brands.

Best Carry-On Luggage | Best Checked Luggage | Best Hardside Luggage | Best Duffel Bags | Best Underseat Luggage | Best Luggage on Amazon | Best Travel Backpacks | Best Packing Cubes | Best Luggage Trackers

Samsonite earns our top spot for the best luggage brand because it has a wide assortment for every preference — from business travelers to vacationers — and has continuously proven to be high quality as we've tested it over the years. In particular, it stands out for its durability and ease-of-use features: There's been no struggling to open and close the cases, and packing them has been a breeze thanks to the functional compartments that maximize space. It's certainly not inexpensive, but as direct-to-consumer luggage brand prices have skyrocketed, Samsonite's have remained fairly consistent.

Both hardside and softside styles from the brand have excelled in our tests. We've also been impressed by each of the sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags and underseat luggage. Some of our favorite models include the Freeform hardside (pictured here), the Solyte DLX softside and the Stryde Glyder , which makes the checked case wide instead of tall so it's less likely to tip over.

best luggage brands samsonite luggage testing at good housekeeping

A consumer tester rolling the Samsonite Freeform carry-on through an obstacle course at the Good Housekeeping Institute.

If you're on a budget or you don’t use luggage regularly — i.e., it doesn’t need to be the most durable and you don’t need all the bells and whistles — American Tourister offers competitive pricing and an excellent variety to choose from . There are lots of options if you prefer bright colors and fun prints, plus there are cases for the entire family, including a Disney collection . Ideal especially for vacationers, the models are fun and functional between the designs and versatile offerings.

Just note that while luxury hardside cases are usually made of polycarbonate, American Tourister typically uses ABS plastic, which is more affordable but more prone to scratches. Still, it gets high ratings from online reviewers who note that the bags are surprisingly spacious. Another perk: The brand offers luggage sets for an even better value, especially if you need to purchase multiple pieces. Pictured here is the Pop Max Softside set , which at $150 for a set of three is less than other single cases.

Away is one of the most popular luggage brands on the market, and our testing shows it actually lives up to its hype. Though the brand has a wide range of offerings, we especially love the hardside carry-on. It's made of 100% polycarbonate that proved to be durable and lightweight in our evaluations — even lighter than some fabric bags we’ve tested. It was also surprisingly spacious and held a full packing load in our review. The company offers a 100-day return policy on unused items; it also offers a lifetime limited warranty on its suitcases that covers any "functional damage."

Besides the main Carry-On model , it comes in variations like a Bigger Carry-On (which the brand says can hold 20% more) and a Carry-On Flex (which has an expandable zipper). We also love the brand's Everywhere Bag , which is a stylish and surprisingly spacious weekender.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: We Tested Away's Trendy Carry-On to See If It's Worth The Price

an empty away carry on laid open flat on a white table, good housekeeping's luggage review

An inside view of Away's The Carry On.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley bags are pricey — a carry-on can cost over $600 — but they come with a lifetime guarantee that will cover all repairs if the luggage ever gets broken or damaged. They also come with innovative features, such as the brand's signature compression packing system. Bags that have this feature expand to let you pack and then compress down after they're filled. In fact, one of our testers said she packed a week's worth of summer clothes for two people into a compact carry-on, and it easily fit into an airline's overhead bin.

The suitcases also use top-notch construction and timeless designs in a range of styles, including hardside, softside, carry-ons and checked bags. The Baseline Global Carry-On Spinner (pictured here in the 21-inch version) has been a selected as GH Family Travel Award winner for the past two years after travel testers gave it perfect scores across the board. Its nylon fabric also aced our Lab's abrasion tests.

a view of the interior of briggs and riley baseline carry on luggage

The interior compartment of Briggs & Riley's Baseline Carry-On, including its easy-to-use expansion button.

It’s hard to find good luggage for under $100, but Amazon’s luggage does not disappoint. There are softside and hardside styles to choose from, plus garment bags , duffels and more. Amazon also boasts extensive testing to make sure it’ll hold up, and though it might not be the absolute best quality out there, the price can’t be beat.

We were impressed with its hardside 20-inch spinner carry-on (pictured here) when we tested it on our Lab. Our analysts found it to be exceptionally easy to pack, though the ABS material wasn't as scratch-resistant as other models in our tests. Still, consumer testers liked the maneuverability and wheel performance. This style also comes in two other sizes (24 and 28 inches) and can be purchased as a two- or three-piece set.

This luxury brand is on the pricey side but has timeless designs — from hardside to tweed fabric — that never go out of style. In fact, the brand’s marketing and aesthetics are focused heavily on its heritage. It has been a top performer in our tests thanks to its spacious interior that's easy to pack and its wheels and handles that make it smooth and comfortable to maneuver.

The hardside cases have earned high scores in our tests — especially standing out for being scratch-resistant, lightweight and spacious — but we also love the softside Legend collection (pictured here), which is made of durable tweed fabric and leather trim.

This fashionable yet functional travel brand was founded by actress Shay Mitchell and incorporates smart features designed to make traveling easier. It also a stunning aesthetic, including monochromatic color schemes where the handles and hardware match the case.

Pictured here is the Carry-On Roller, its best-selling case that comes in a range of neutral and fun hues. It was spacious for packing and easy to maneuver in our tests, and though it did scuff during use, it resisted dents well during our Lab's drop tests. Another popular style is its Mini Weekender , which can be used as a personal itema nd fit underneath the airplane seat in front of you.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Weigh In On Buzzy Travel Brand Béis

a photo of the beis carry on luggage and beis weekender bag

The Béis carry-on and compact weekender bag being used as a travel set.

This company was founded by a pilot, and it makes luggage specifically for airline personnel who travel for a living. Still, it's just as functional for business and leisure travelers. The brand primarily sells softside luggage, though it does have some hardside options available. There’s excellent attention to detail that makes frequent flying easier, like cushioning around the handles for comfort, self-aligning wheels that let you roll the luggage in any direction and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric.

The Platinum Elite softside luggage (pictured here) stood out in our Lab tests. Not only was it super durable, but it was also spacious enough to hold our entire load with room to spare. The downside was that it was heavier than others, but it's a fair trade-off for the top-of-the-line features.

This brand increases the fun factor and makes it easier to spot your luggage in a sea of solid colors. There are adorable animal sets for kids' luggage , animal prints for adults and more. There are also options for licensed teams and art (like Britto, shown here), making your suitcase a fun yet functional accessory.

When it comes to materials, most Heys suitcases are hardside and made of polycarbonate and ABS composite. This means it's mostly ABS plastic but has a polycarbonate coating on the outside for added protection. The brand wasn't the most durable in our tests, it but earned high ease of use scores.

Style is certainly important when it comes to luggage — it's an accessory, after all — but you don't want to sacrifice quality and functionality. Calpak's cases are both well-made and have unique designs. Though its assortment is tailored with fewer models than some of the big brands, Calpak still has a wide range of materials to choose from, including sleek hardside polycarbonate, printed ABS/polycarbonate blends and ripstop polyester.

Calpak's Ambeur carry-on (pictured here) was one of our testers' favorites; they especially loved the easy-to-use telescopic handle and metallic color. We also found it to be easy to pack and though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some others we tested (which is expected for ABS composites), it still withstood dents and damage from our durability drop test.

Tumi

Rolling TUMI luggage through the airport is like a status symbol; the brand is highly recognized for its upscale products for both business and leisure travelers. In addition to its suitcases , it makes accessories like briefcases and backpacks and has components that make traveling easier, like an anti-slip strap on carrying bags and an extra hook on rolling bags so you can wheel multiple items at once. On top of that, the brand stands out for its unique service offerings, like repairs and luggage registration to help you find lost bags.

We especially love Tumi's Alpha collection (pictured here is the Alpha carry-on ) with its durable materials and removable garment sleeve. One GH analyst who has been using a backpack in this collection raves that it fits more than you'd expect and has a versatile design for travel, work and beyond.

L.L.Bean

If you’re going away for weeks or just have lots to pack, L.L.Bean’s duffels are roomy enough to stuff in everything you need. There are options with or without wheels and lots of sizes to choose from (the Adventure Rolling Duffel , shown here, is incredibly durable and one of our go-to picks for vacations with kids).

The flexible shape of the duffel also allows it to store easily under your bed, so it’s perfect for college students or anyone tight on storage space. It’s also made of sturdy, water-resistant nylon fabric that's made to last no matter where your travels take you — in fact, one of our experts says it's lasted for years without signs of wear. She does note that it's a little more cumbersome to pull than four-wheel spinner luggage and it's spaciousness makes it easy to go over the 50-pound weight limit for airlines, but says it's perfect for packing for two kids.

Monos

Monos says its design philosophy is "less is more," — meaning the bags are made to be simple and timeless to avoid passing trends , and high quality so they can stand the test of time. Most of its hardside bags are entirely polycarbonate, though some combine polycarbonate and aluminum for increased durability. They also have useful packing features like wide compression straps to help you fit more in the case.

The Check-In Large was a winner of last year's GH Family Travel Awards thanks to its super spacious interior and maneuverability. Testers said it was easy to roll and they loved the sleek appearance. It's also worth noting that the brand has a 100-day return period so you can get a refund if it's not a good fit.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Travelers Love the Monos Luggage Collection

a group of blue luggage

Monos luggage shown in three sizes: Check-in Large, Check-in Medium and Carry-on

Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek

Whether you’re backpacking internationally or exploring a national park, Eagle Creek gives you both the convenience and durability you need in a bag. Some have various compartments so you can stay organized (or store shoes and dirty laundry separately), and some bags have backpack straps if you need to be hands-free.

We especially love the Cargo Hauler Duffel for shorter trips: It’s affordable, spacious, lightweight and folds up into a small pouch for easy storage. For longer getaways, the Migrate Wheeled Duffel (pictured here) is larger and has two wheels with a telescopic handle. It also opens wide so you can easily access the contents.

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Eagle Creek's Migrate Wheeled Duffel, left, being checked in at an airport terminal.

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Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

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9 Best Yoga Bags for Every Type of Practice in 2024

best travel purse for woman

By Sara Coughlin

9 Best Yoga Bags for Every Type of Practice in 2024

For an activity as physically and mentally restorative as yoga, it can raise some stressful questions—namely, how are you supposed to lug all your gear (not only your mat but potentially a towel, water bottle, and change of clothes) to the studio? Before you shove everything into an old tote bag and hope for the best, consider investing in a dedicated yoga mat bag. There are tons on the market that are protective, spacious, cute, and make hauling your stuff less of a strain on your body. Check out our favorites here, and save the energy you would have spent Tetris-ing all your things in a regular bag on cleaning your mat regularly.

Our top picks

  • Best Overall: Manduka Go Steady 3.0 Mat Carrier
  • Best Budget: Yogiii Yoga Mat Bag
  • Best Strap: Lululemon Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap
  • Best Backpack: Aurorae Yoga Mat Crossbody Travel Sling Backpack
  • Best for Hot Yoga: Hugger Mugger Uinta Yoga Mat Bag
  • Best for Large Mats: Kuak Large Yoga Bag

What should you look for in a yoga mat bag?

The best yoga mat bags.

Like any good gym bag, a high-quality yoga mat holder should be easy to carry over your shoulder or wear across your body without digging in or causing chaffing. It should also be roomy enough to hold all of your belongings (bonus points if it has pockets or internal compartments to organize everything). And if you regularly attend hot yoga classes, you should look for one that’s made with water-resistant materials, so you can keep your sweaty gear contained post-practice. If you’re a minimalist who prefers a humble yoga mat strap, look for one that won’t loosen at a moment’s notice. An adjustable length, buckles, and other types of fasteners will help the strap fit securely around your mat for your whole commute.

Below, we’ve selected some of the best yoga bags you can purchase now, whether you’re looking for one that will do double-duty as your main gym bag, or just something that can hold your mat plus your phone and keys.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

GO Steady Mat Carrier

GO Steady Mat Carrier

Best Overall

  • Pros: Internal organization, breathable interior, water-resistant
  • Cons: Can be difficult to fit bulkier gear like yoga blocks

Naturally, Manduka, the maker of our favorite yoga mat , also makes a top-notch mat bag. The water-resistant Go Steady 3.0 carrier fits a standard yoga mat in its main compartment, which is perforated to encourage airflow (a major plus when you’re heading home from a sweaty practice). It also has a few internal pockets for your towel, extra clothes, and other essentials. And, thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap, you can wear it like a crossbody or tote bag.

Yoga Mat Bag

Yoga Mat Bag

Best Budget

  • Pros: Affordable, available in several colors and prints, machine washable
  • Cons: Not as protective or structured as other options on this list

Whether you’re a beginner who doesn’t want to commit to a pricey bag right away or just someone who prefers a simple mat carrier, this yoga tote is a great choice. The main compartment is deep, the outer pocket can fit a water bottle or towel, and the thick strap is comfortable and easy to sling over your shoulder. One thing to note is the Yogiii bag doesn’t have any zippers, snaps, or clasps, so be mindful of where you put any valuables.

Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap

Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap

  • Pros: Adjustable, equipped with strong buckles
  • Cons: Not protective

A yoga strap keeps your pre- and post-flow pack-up nice and simple: Just loop it around the ends of your mat, throw it over your shoulder, and go. Of course, lower-quality straps can make this process less than seamless—maybe they come loose or they aren’t long enough to wear comfortably. Lululemon’s mat strap dodges those little annoyances with an adjustable length and sturdy buckles to secure the loops around your mat.

Yoga Mat Crossbody Travel Sling Back Pack

Yoga Mat Crossbody Travel Sling Back Pack

Best Backpack

  • Pros: Secure mat pocket and strap, wet clothing compartment
  • Cons: Some reviewers say it’s not super durable

With this sling style backpack’s level of organization, you can keep your most important personal items easily accessible, and avoid fumbling through a shapeless main compartment. It has a phone pocket that’s built into the main strap, a side pocket for your water bottle, a lined compartment for wet clothes, and, of course, a larger side pocket and strap to hold your mat.

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Uinta Yoga Mat Bag

Hugger Mugger

Uinta Yoga Mat Bag

Paragon Sports

Best for Hot Yoga

  • Pros: Breathable, lightweight
  • Cons: Doesn’t accommodate larger mats (according to Amazon reviewers)

If you’re bringing home a pile of sweaty gear, ventilation is key. That’s why the highly breathable Uinta bag from Hugger Mugger caught our eye: It was designed with hot yoga in mind, so it’s primarily made of moisture-wicking material, and its bottom is made of mesh. The external cargo pocket is a great spot for your wallet and phone, and there’s a dedicated ring for your keys on the outside, too.

Go Play Yoga Mat Carrier

Go Play Yoga Mat Carrier

Best for the Light Packer

  • Pros: Lightweight, secure buckles, water-resistant
  • Cons: Limited storage space

There’s lugging a ton of stuff in a heavy-duty mat bag, there’s traveling ultra-light with just a strap, and then there’s packing a few non-negotiable items alongside your mat.

For anyone who likes the idea of that third approach, there’s the Go Play carrier from Manduka. It’s shaped like a mat strap (complete with buckle-equipped loops), but has a spacious zipper pocket for your must-haves. Think of it as a fanny pack for your yoga mat.

Journey Yoga Mat Bag

Journey Yoga Mat Bag

Best for Yoga Accessories

  • Pros: Very spacious, easy to pack
  • Cons: Can be cumbersome

We love yoga accessories like blocks, towels, and bolsters, but they can take up a lot of space. Luckily, the Journey Yoga Mat Bag from Hugger Mugger has room to spare: The main compartment is large enough to hold your props of choice, while the zippered pocket at the base of the bag holds a standard-sized yoga mat. Reviewers report fitting multiple blocks, blankets, a change of clothes, and more yoga must-haves without having to squeeze them in. It also has smaller pockets for your keys, phone, and other valuables.

Yoga Mat Bag

Best for Large Mats

  • Pros: Very sturdy, spacious
  • Cons: A little slouchy and unstructured (per some reviewers)

Made with double shoulder straps and a large main compartment, this sturdy canvas bag is perfect if your mat is wider, thicker, longer, or some combination thereof compared to a standard-sized yoga mat. It has a zippered opening, features five pockets and pouches (including one for your water bottle), and can go straight in the washer if you notice things are starting to get a little funky.

Wunderlust Weekender Bag

Wunderlust Weekender Bag (48-L.)

Best Gym Bag Combo

  • Pros: Spacious, well-organized, water-repellent
  • Cons: Pricey

If you’re pairing your yoga practice with a run, lifting session, or even a quick trip, Lululemon’s Wunderlust weekender is just the right size. It looks like a regular duffel bag and has all the features you’d expect from one (including handles and a crossbody strap; interior and exterior pockets; and a roomy main compartment), but it also has a pair of adjustable external straps to fasten around your yoga mat. So, you can have your mat, sneakers, workout clothes, and everything else you need for a day spent bopping from the studio to the gym—without feeling like a pack mule.

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Best Life

The 12 Best Belt Bags for Women, Stylists Say

Posted: January 17, 2024 | Last updated: January 17, 2024

<p>The best belt bags for women are both functional and stylish, perfectly blending ease of use with good design. The bags offer the ultimate luxury—free hands—and give <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://bestlifeonline.com/easy-ways-to-look-put-together/">every outfit</a> an extra pocket. It's no wonder these carryalls have become enormously popular for travel, workouts, and everyday errand runs. To keep up with demand, brands are creating more, and the newest batch of women's belt bags and fanny packs is even better than the one that came before it. Keep reading for the best options for every need.</p><p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://bestlifeonline.com/best-ugg-boot-dupes/">5 Best Ugg Boot Dupes You Can Buy Online</a>.</strong></p></p>

The best belt bags for women are both functional and stylish, perfectly blending ease of use with good design. The bags offer the ultimate luxury—free hands—and give every outfit an extra pocket. It's no wonder these carryalls have become enormously popular for travel, workouts, and everyday errand runs. To keep up with demand, brands are creating more, and the newest batch of women's belt bags and fanny packs is even better than the one that came before it. Keep reading for the best options for every need.

RELATED: 5 Best Ugg Boot Dupes You Can Buy Online .

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Black, grey, plum, and blush<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 7½" W x 4½" H x 3" D<strong>Price</strong>: $55</p><p>Hitting the road requires a belt bag that's equal parts comfy and durable—and Kånken's <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/fjallraven-kanken-water-resistant-belt-bag/5570975">Water Resistant Belt Bag</a> for $55 fits the bill. It's 7.5 inches wide, 4.5 inches tall, and 3 inches deep, making it the ideal size to slip through TSA.</p><p>"It even has a front and back pocket perfect for keys, money, and your passport," says <strong>Michelle Barrett</strong>, stylist and founder of <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="http://www.capsuleclosetstylist.com/">Capsule Closet Stylist</a>.</p><p>The bag comes in black, grey, plum, and blush and is made of a synthetic material with a zipper closure that keeps your things protected from the elements. In addition to a belt strap, it also has a top handle, making it easy to affix to other luggage if needed.</p><p>"This is a practical little pouch for running errands, hiking, or just taking a walk in the neighborhood to hold keys, etc," wrote one reviewer on Nordstrom.</p>

Colors : Black, grey, plum, and blush Dimensions : 7½" W x 4½" H x 3" D Price : $55

Hitting the road requires a belt bag that's equal parts comfy and durable—and Kånken's Water Resistant Belt Bag for $55 fits the bill. It's 7.5 inches wide, 4.5 inches tall, and 3 inches deep, making it the ideal size to slip through TSA.

"It even has a front and back pocket perfect for keys, money, and your passport," says Michelle Barrett , stylist and founder of Capsule Closet Stylist .

The bag comes in black, grey, plum, and blush and is made of a synthetic material with a zipper closure that keeps your things protected from the elements. In addition to a belt strap, it also has a top handle, making it easy to affix to other luggage if needed.

"This is a practical little pouch for running errands, hiking, or just taking a walk in the neighborhood to hold keys, etc," wrote one reviewer on Nordstrom.

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Yellow, pink, baby blue, navy blue, mint green, burnt caramel, black, beige<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 7 ½" W x 5" H x 2" D<strong>Price</strong>: $38</p><p>You've no doubt spotted Lululemon's <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://shop.lululemon.com/p/accessories/Everywhere-Belt-Bag/_/prod8900747">Everywhere Belt Bag</a> on countless yoga-goers in your neighborhood or wellness influencers on Instagram. But the reason it's a viral hit is because it is, in fact, a great belt bag.</p><p>"It's simple and does the job without any fuss," says Barett. "It also comes in a variety of colors, so you can buy one to match your sportswear." (Right now, the Lululemon belt bag is available in up to nine hues, including butter yellow, baby blue, mint green, and multiple neutrals.)</p><p>It comes at an affordable $38 and its exterior is 100% polyester. The bag is 7.5 inches wide, 5 inches tall, and 2 inches deep and comes with a strap that extends to 41.7 inches.</p><p>"Perfect size for a convenient way to carry your necessities," writes one customer. Toss in your phone, keys, wallet, and a granola bar, and you're ready for your daily hike.</p>

Colors : Yellow, pink, baby blue, navy blue, mint green, burnt caramel, black, beige Dimensions : 7 ½" W x 5" H x 2" D Price : $38

You've no doubt spotted Lululemon's Everywhere Belt Bag on countless yoga-goers in your neighborhood or wellness influencers on Instagram. But the reason it's a viral hit is because it is, in fact, a great belt bag.

"It's simple and does the job without any fuss," says Barett. "It also comes in a variety of colors, so you can buy one to match your sportswear." (Right now, the Lululemon belt bag is available in up to nine hues, including butter yellow, baby blue, mint green, and multiple neutrals.)

It comes at an affordable $38 and its exterior is 100% polyester. The bag is 7.5 inches wide, 5 inches tall, and 2 inches deep and comes with a strap that extends to 41.7 inches.

"Perfect size for a convenient way to carry your necessities," writes one customer. Toss in your phone, keys, wallet, and a granola bar, and you're ready for your daily hike.

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Beige, navy blue, grey<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 9.4" W x 6.7" H x 1.4" D<strong>Price</strong>: $1,200</p><p>If you choose to invest in a high-end belt bag, Gucci's <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.gucci.com/us/en/pr/women/handbags/backpacks-belt-bags-for-women/ophidia-gg-small-belt-bag-p-752597FACFW8920">Ophidia GG Small Belt Bag</a> is a classic choice.</p><p>"The signature beige step-and-repeat double G fabric will stand the test of time, making it worth the spend," says <strong>Elizabeth Kosich</strong>, certified image stylist and founder of <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://elizabethkosichstyling.com/">Elizabeth Kosich Styling</a>. "To keep the conspicuous branding grounded, wear with monochromatic looks and sneakers in the daytime only for a casual, toned-down message."</p><p>The 9.4-inch by 6.7-inch bag also converts to a sling you can wear across your chest, with a 31.9-inch strap in the fashion house's iconic green and red web. At $1,200, it's an investment, but one that will pay off.</p>

Colors : Beige, navy blue, grey Dimensions : 9.4" W x 6.7" H x 1.4" D Price : $1,200

If you choose to invest in a high-end belt bag, Gucci's Ophidia GG Small Belt Bag is a classic choice.

"The signature beige step-and-repeat double G fabric will stand the test of time, making it worth the spend," says Elizabeth Kosich , certified image stylist and founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling . "To keep the conspicuous branding grounded, wear with monochromatic looks and sneakers in the daytime only for a casual, toned-down message."

The 9.4-inch by 6.7-inch bag also converts to a sling you can wear across your chest, with a 31.9-inch strap in the fashion house's iconic green and red web. At $1,200, it's an investment, but one that will pay off.

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Cognac, mink, black<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 11" W x 5.75" H x 1½" D<strong>Price</strong>: $69</p><p>In just five years since the brand started, Quince has emerged as a reliable shop for high-quality basics. At $69, the brand's <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.quince.com/women/women-s-italian-leather-sling-bag">Italian Pebbled Leather Sling</a> is one of its best fanny pack offerings.</p><p>"It is simple yet sophisticated," says <strong>Kendra Sharpe</strong>, owner of <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://www.kendrasharpe.com/kendrasharpeservices">Kendra Sharpe Styling</a>. "The design is sleek and modern and can be worn by anyone."</p><p>The leather fanny pack comes in a luxe cognac, sand, or black color, with dimensions of 11 inches by 5.75 inches and a thick, 32-inch adjustable strap.</p><p>"It looks very well-made, and the leather is beautiful," wrote one reviewer.<p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://bestlifeonline.com/make-purse-look-designer/">5 Ways to Make Your Purse Look Designer, Stylists Say</a>.</strong></p></p>

Colors : Cognac, mink, black Dimensions : 11" W x 5.75" H x 1½" D Price : $69

In just five years since the brand started, Quince has emerged as a reliable shop for high-quality basics. At $69, the brand's Italian Pebbled Leather Sling is one of its best fanny pack offerings.

"It is simple yet sophisticated," says Kendra Sharpe , owner of Kendra Sharpe Styling . "The design is sleek and modern and can be worn by anyone."

The leather fanny pack comes in a luxe cognac, sand, or black color, with dimensions of 11 inches by 5.75 inches and a thick, 32-inch adjustable strap.

RELATED: 5 Ways to Make Your Purse Look Designer, Stylists Say .

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Black, chocolate<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 11" W x 5½" H x 1" D<strong>Price</strong>: $78</p><p>Faux leather can be just as good as the real thing for a belt bag. This <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/michael-michael-kors-michael-kors-faux-leather-belt-bag/5462014">$78 one from Michael Kors</a> is understated enough for every day but still makes a style statement with its unique shape.</p><p>"It has two pockets and lays flat to the body, unlike some of the bulkier options," says Barett. "Also, it is in a quality material, as some faux leather can look cheap, which is off-putting."</p><p>The 11-inch by 5.5-inch faux leather belt bag is emblazoned with a subtle MK pattern and comes in both black and chocolate brown.</p><p>"This is the perfect size for your phone and cardholder. Love that it looks so much more expensive than what it is," wrote a reviewer on Nordstrom.</p>

Colors : Black, chocolate Dimensions : 11" W x 5½" H x 1" D Price : $78

Faux leather can be just as good as the real thing for a belt bag. This $78 one from Michael Kors is understated enough for every day but still makes a style statement with its unique shape.

"It has two pockets and lays flat to the body, unlike some of the bulkier options," says Barett. "Also, it is in a quality material, as some faux leather can look cheap, which is off-putting."

The 11-inch by 5.5-inch faux leather belt bag is emblazoned with a subtle MK pattern and comes in both black and chocolate brown.

"This is the perfect size for your phone and cardholder. Love that it looks so much more expensive than what it is," wrote a reviewer on Nordstrom.

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Multicolor combos available<strong>Dimensions</strong>: Not listed<strong>Price</strong>: $20</p><p>A belt bag needn't be pricy to look incredible. Los Angeles Apparel's <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://losangelesapparel.net/products/rnb0523-nylon-fanny-pack">Nylon Fanny Pack</a> is just $20 and is just as functional as pricier models. There are 17 color combos available, meaning you can load up on a few to match every outfit.</p><p>"It's an iconic fanny pack style, and its pouch comes in a rainbow of vibrant neons with contrasting color combinations for the zipper and nylon webbed belt," says Kosich. "Sporty yet stylish, it's perfect to have on hand for outdoor activities, music festivals, and spontaneous adventures."</p><p>"Great little bag! Perfect for biking and holding small stuff. So pleased with this purchase," wrote one shopper.</p>

Colors : Multicolor combos available Dimensions : Not listed Price : $20

A belt bag needn't be pricy to look incredible. Los Angeles Apparel's Nylon Fanny Pack is just $20 and is just as functional as pricier models. There are 17 color combos available, meaning you can load up on a few to match every outfit.

"It's an iconic fanny pack style, and its pouch comes in a rainbow of vibrant neons with contrasting color combinations for the zipper and nylon webbed belt," says Kosich. "Sporty yet stylish, it's perfect to have on hand for outdoor activities, music festivals, and spontaneous adventures."

"Great little bag! Perfect for biking and holding small stuff. So pleased with this purchase," wrote one shopper.

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Black, chocolate, cognanc, dusted purple, hot pink, ivory, ultimate green<strong>Dimensions</strong>: ‎ 10.71" W x 5.91" H x 2.68" D<strong>Price</strong>: $30</p><p>This <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.amazon.com/Drop-Womens-Rylee-Quilted-Belt/dp/B0BSFNJJRF">sling bag</a>, which costs $30 (some colors were on sale for as low as $19 at the time of writing), is made of vegan leather that mimics the real thing with an embossed croc effect.</p><p>"The luxury-like material feels like something you would find at a high-end retailer, and the relaxed style makes it perfect for accessorizing with your everyday outfits," says <strong>Ashlee Jaine</strong>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="http://ashleejaine.com/">FIT-certified personal stylist</a>. "Bonus: not only can this bag be styled as a belt bag, but you can also loosen the belt to wear it as a crossbody shoulder bag as well for versatility."</p><p>It's 12.25 inches by 7.75 inches and comes in six colors, including grey, olive, lilac, and rust. There's an interior zip and a bag zip compartment that sits against your body to keep your items safe.</p><p>"This bag is better quality and more expensive looking than I expected. It curves slightly so it hugs your body whether worn as a waist or crossbody bag so it doesn't look bulky like some bags of this style do," wrote a happy customer on Amazon.</p>

Colors : Black, chocolate, cognanc, dusted purple, hot pink, ivory, ultimate green Dimensions : ‎ 10.71" W x 5.91" H x 2.68" D Price : $30

This sling bag , which costs $30 (some colors were on sale for as low as $19 at the time of writing), is made of vegan leather that mimics the real thing with an embossed croc effect.

"The luxury-like material feels like something you would find at a high-end retailer, and the relaxed style makes it perfect for accessorizing with your everyday outfits," says Ashlee Jaine , FIT-certified personal stylist . "Bonus: not only can this bag be styled as a belt bag, but you can also loosen the belt to wear it as a crossbody shoulder bag as well for versatility."

It's 12.25 inches by 7.75 inches and comes in six colors, including grey, olive, lilac, and rust. There's an interior zip and a bag zip compartment that sits against your body to keep your items safe.

"This bag is better quality and more expensive looking than I expected. It curves slightly so it hugs your body whether worn as a waist or crossbody bag so it doesn't look bulky like some bags of this style do," wrote a happy customer on Amazon.

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Black, bisque, brown, cheetah, blue, grey, purple, pink, orange/red, olive green<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 8.5" W x 5.7" H x 2.6" D<strong>Price</strong>: $16-$18</p><p>Not every waist bag for women comes with extended sizing, so when you find one you love, you may want to pick it up in every color—and that's totally possible with <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.amazon.com/Fashion-Pockets-Adjustable-Running-Cycling/dp/B098JRX2BH">this one from Aineon</a>.</p><p>It costs just $16 to $18 and comes in 11 shades, like rose pink, teal blue, black, tan, charcoal, and more. The strap extends to 55 inches, and the bag itself is 8.5 by 5.7 inches and made of water-resistant polyester. There are four zipper compartments total, two on the inside, one on the front, and one on the back.</p><p>"Was worried, being a plus size lady had me concerned this wouldn't fit but it was more then enough," wrote one customer on Amazon.<p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://bestlifeonline.com/best-places-to-buy-jeans/">10 Best Places to Buy Jeans for Women, Stylists Say</a>.</strong></p></p>

Colors : Black, bisque, brown, cheetah, blue, grey, purple, pink, orange/red, olive green Dimensions : 8.5" W x 5.7" H x 2.6" D Price : $16-$18

Not every waist bag for women comes with extended sizing, so when you find one you love, you may want to pick it up in every color—and that's totally possible with this one from Aineon .

It costs just $16 to $18 and comes in 11 shades, like rose pink, teal blue, black, tan, charcoal, and more. The strap extends to 55 inches, and the bag itself is 8.5 by 5.7 inches and made of water-resistant polyester. There are four zipper compartments total, two on the inside, one on the front, and one on the back.

RELATED: 10 Best Places to Buy Jeans for Women, Stylists Say .

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Bronze, hot sauce, black, navy, green, slate, teal<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 10" W x 4.7" H x 4.7" D<strong>Price</strong>: $89</p><p>Your go-to errand bag needs to be designed with functionality top of mind. The <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://bellroy.com/products/sling-mini">Bellroy Sling Mini</a>, $89, has a zip compartment with two mesh slip pockets for cards or coupons and a main compartment with a sunglasses pouch; there's even a key clip. The 10-inch by 5-inch bag is water-resistant, made from plastic bottles, and comes in seven colors.</p><p>If you choose to wear the pouch on your back instead of as a belt, there is padded paneling for extra comfort, making it a favorite for <strong>Liis Hainla</strong>, editor-in-chief of <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="http://veganavenue.com/">Vegan Avenue</a>. There's even a three-year warranty!</p>

Colors : Bronze, hot sauce, black, navy, green, slate, teal Dimensions : 10" W x 4.7" H x 4.7" D Price : $89

Your go-to errand bag needs to be designed with functionality top of mind. The Bellroy Sling Mini , $89, has a zip compartment with two mesh slip pockets for cards or coupons and a main compartment with a sunglasses pouch; there's even a key clip. The 10-inch by 5-inch bag is water-resistant, made from plastic bottles, and comes in seven colors.

If you choose to wear the pouch on your back instead of as a belt, there is padded paneling for extra comfort, making it a favorite for Liis Hainla , editor-in-chief of Vegan Avenue . There's even a three-year warranty!

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Rose, blue, grey, purple, orange, pink<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 9.4" W x 5.9" H x 3.9" D<strong>Price</strong>: $52</p><p>There's no room for error when it comes to choosing a mom bag, but stylists say you can trust the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/1456049970/medium-size-belly-bag-leather-for-women">Brise Leather Belly Bag</a>, which costs $52 on Etsy.</p><p>"The likelihood is you will be carrying around wipes, snacks, and possibly a juice pack alongside your normal phone and keys, so you want something practical with a little more room," says Barrett. "These come in a range of colors and straps and would wipe clean of any spills and accidents."</p><p>Really, you can start thinking about this one as more of a hands-free diaper bag than anything else. It's made of leather and is 6 inches by 9.5 inches, with a depth of 3 inches. Pick it up in a rainbow of colors, including blue, pink, grey, or orange.</p><p>"Top, good quality and sufficient capacity," wrote one customer.</p>

Colors : Rose, blue, grey, purple, orange, pink Dimensions : 9.4" W x 5.9" H x 3.9" D Price : $52

There's no room for error when it comes to choosing a mom bag, but stylists say you can trust the Brise Leather Belly Bag , which costs $52 on Etsy.

"The likelihood is you will be carrying around wipes, snacks, and possibly a juice pack alongside your normal phone and keys, so you want something practical with a little more room," says Barrett. "These come in a range of colors and straps and would wipe clean of any spills and accidents."

Really, you can start thinking about this one as more of a hands-free diaper bag than anything else. It's made of leather and is 6 inches by 9.5 inches, with a depth of 3 inches. Pick it up in a rainbow of colors, including blue, pink, grey, or orange.

"Top, good quality and sufficient capacity," wrote one customer.

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Black, clay, khaki, sienna, bilberry<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 9.8" W x 5.1" H x 2.8" D<strong>Price</strong>: $300</p><p>When it comes to everyday bags you can trust, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.longchamp.com/us/en/products/belt-bag-s-20054HCV001.html">Longchamp</a> is a cult-favorite brand. This $300 option boasts a sturdy construction and stylish shape and is ideal for any gender. The 9.8-inch by 5.1-inch bag has a zip closure for security.</p><p>"The simple design is elevated by Longchamp's signature calfskin leather and statement logo, making it the perfect accessory to polish any off-duty look," says Kosich. "Longchamp's range of understated colors are both supportive and complementary to any wardrobe—light or dark, bright or muted, warm or cool, feminine or masculine."</p>

Colors : Black, clay, khaki, sienna, bilberry Dimensions : 9.8" W x 5.1" H x 2.8" D Price : $300

When it comes to everyday bags you can trust, Longchamp is a cult-favorite brand. This $300 option boasts a sturdy construction and stylish shape and is ideal for any gender. The 9.8-inch by 5.1-inch bag has a zip closure for security.

"The simple design is elevated by Longchamp's signature calfskin leather and statement logo, making it the perfect accessory to polish any off-duty look," says Kosich. "Longchamp's range of understated colors are both supportive and complementary to any wardrobe—light or dark, bright or muted, warm or cool, feminine or masculine."

<p><strong>Colors</strong>: Beige, black, blue, pink, green, grey, leopard, brown, orange, purple, khaki<strong>Dimensions</strong>: 8.26" W x 4.92" H x 0.59" D<strong>Price</strong>: $14-$22</p><p>A small belt bag is great for days you're not carrying much more than your phone, wallet, and keys and want to keep your load light. For those instances, try <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer external" href="https://www.amazon.com/Telena-Women-Fashionable-Crossbody-Adjustable/dp/B0BJDW4M21/ref=sr_1_1_sspa">Telena's Belt Bag</a>, which is a mere 8.25 inches by 4.25 inches. It's tiny but has all the features needed to stay organized, like three mesh slots and a back zipper pocket. The bag is made of water-resistant polyester.</p><p>"I initially bought this for an international trip early in the year, and I've continued to use it every day since then," commented one shopper on Amazon. "The bag is perfect for traveling light or day trips when you don't want to lug around a purse, fits what you need, and is stylish with any outfit," wrote another. The best part: Solid colors start at just $13.<p><strong>For more shopping advice delivered straight to your inbox, <a rel="noopener noreferrer external nofollow" href="https://bestlifeonline.com/newsletters/">sign up for our daily newsletter</a>.</strong></p></p>

Colors : Beige, black, blue, pink, green, grey, leopard, brown, orange, purple, khaki Dimensions : 8.26" W x 4.92" H x 0.59" D Price : $14-$22

A small belt bag is great for days you're not carrying much more than your phone, wallet, and keys and want to keep your load light. For those instances, try Telena's Belt Bag , which is a mere 8.25 inches by 4.25 inches. It's tiny but has all the features needed to stay organized, like three mesh slots and a back zipper pocket. The bag is made of water-resistant polyester.

For more shopping advice delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

when to visit moscow

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

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With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

where to stay in moscow

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

moscow itinerary

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

moscow itinerary

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

moscow itinerary

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

  • Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
  • Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
  • Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The Red Square

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

  • Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
  • Cost: USD $15.00
  • Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The Moscow Kremlin

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

  • Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Lenins Mausoleum

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
  • Cost: USD $8.00
  • Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

St. Basils Cathedral

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

  • Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
  • Cost: Free to enter
  • Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

GUM Department Store

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

  • Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
  • Cost: USD $5.00
  • Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Novodevichy Convent

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

  • Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
  • Cost: Free! 
  • Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

  • Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
  • Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The State Tretyakov Gallery

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

  • Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
  • Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

All Russian Exhibition Center

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
  • Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
  • Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Bolshoi Theater

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

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Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

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Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

  • Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
  • This museum is fun for both adults and children!
  • Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

  • A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
  • Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
  • The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

The Alexander Garden

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

  • Television and radio tower in Moscow
  • Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
  • Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

Ostankino Television Tower

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

  • The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
  • Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
  • Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Izmaylovo District

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

  • Closed on Mondays
  • Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
  • The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

Sergiev Posad Golden Ring

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

Trip to Kolomna - Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips From Moscow

Is the hustle and bustle of Moscow starting to wear you down? No worries. There are multiple great day trips from Moscow that will let you see a different side of Russia that you won’t find in the metropolitan area. Each day trip I’ve listed below can easily be done by train from Moscow, and there are trains every day of the week.

The area surrounding Moscow is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, and lines of the sprawling Russian capital. Since Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country it may take from half an hour to two hours to reach some of the landmarks on this list (by train or car) from the Moscow city center.

You can escape to the picturesque Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields, admire onion-domed churches, and get insight into the local way of life. Easy day trips from Moscow include the incomparable white-stone Trinity Cathedral in Sergiyev Posad, the spectacular Cathedral of the Assumption in Dmitrov, and the Russian military aircraft in Monino. For those who love rural tranquility, Suzdal and Vladimir are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Patriotic War of 1812 reenactment that took place in Borodino on the first weekend of September.

Without further ado, here are 15 best day trips from Moscow that are well worth your attention.

easy day trips from Moscow

The Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s a reason Moscow is one of Europe’s most enigmatic destinations. It’s got culture, class, food, history, and more, but even better, is that it is the country’s main transport hub with so many attractions within a day trip from Moscow. While you can definitely spend days or even weeks in Moscow, it can, of course, be done in just one week. What can you do in Moscow in seven days ? Well, you can do a lot if you know how to plan a trip to a place you know so little about.

If you’re ready to get out of the city a bit and soak up the culture, fresh air, and enchanting architecture, I’ve rounded up my favorite day trips outside of Moscow. I often get asked: What are the best cities to visit in Russia? And these are places that I’ve been and loved.

My Favorite Easy Day Trips from Moscow:

Dmitrov Kolomna Zvenigorod Sergiyev Posad Yaroslavl Arkhangelskoye Estate Vladimir Suzdal Korolev Borodino Patriot Park in Kubinka Melikhovo Gorki Leninskie Kaluga Monino

1. Day Trip to Dmitrov from Moscow

Dmitrov may not be as popular as other cities in Russia, but the fact that the city was founded only 7 years earlier than Moscow makes for a great day trip. This small city some 90 kilometers from Moscow is particularly beautiful in the summer. As you walk the streets you can see sparkling fountains, charming centuries-old buildings, yachts and boats transiting through the canal and, of course, the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin.

The Kremlin (castle) is the city’s main draw. The 10m high and about 1km long earthen rampart remained behind the wooden wall and gives an idea of how the castle looked like 400 years ago. The oldest surviving building on the Kremlin grounds is the 16th-century Assumption Cathedral with a unique five-tier iconostasis.

places to visit near moscow by train

Not far from the Kremlin there is a compact 15th-century Borisoglebsky convent. Its main building – the 16th-century Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb is open to the visitors only for services of worship. In the 1930s in the convent housed a labor camp, which contained the builders of the Canal named after Moscow.

Getting There: Dmitrov sits an easy hour and sixteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Rail Terminal. This cheap day trip from Moscow is a great chance to soak up the historic charm to be found in Moscow Oblast.

2. Day Trip to Kolomna from Moscow

Situated to the south-east of Moscow, Kolomna is a beautiful port city on the Oka River. This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region. So you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Interestingly, the city was a site for important weapon factories under the Soviet Union. Although it was opened up in 1994 Kolomna is not as popular as other day-trip destinations in the region.

Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the 15th-century Kremlin made of red brick, try incredibly sweet traditional pastila (marshmallow), and visit some of the cute little churches and 19th-century mansions.

Getting There: Take the express train (commuter line train) from the Kazansky rail terminal to Golutvin station. The trip lasts one hour and forty minutes.

3. Day Trip to Zvenigorod from Moscow

This one is usually a given due to its proximity to and ease of transport from Moscow. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Moscow by train. You can easily hop on the train from the city and land right in the town of Zvenigorod where you can visit the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and sample the sparkly and refreshing kvass, a Russian specialty beverage that’s enjoyed in the summer months.

Zvenigorod is an adorable little town just under an hour away from the Moscow city and is an amazing place to visit as it will give a relaxing break from the hectic life of Moscow. Check this day trip if you don’t feel like planning.

If you have a sweet tooth, spend some time in the quirky Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can indulge in uniquely delicious treats and explore the intersection of food and culture.

Then you may want to pay the Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture, and Art a visit. The museum’s exposition is located on the territory of the Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery, or rather, in the 17th-century Tsaritsyny chambers, built for the wife of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Stroll through the museum halls to view the permanent exhibitions, which offer insights into various aspects of Russian history. The intricate museum’s building is adorned with a decorative porch, complex patterned elements, and looks very impressive in general.

4. Day Trip to Sergiyev Posad from Moscow

If you’re looking for cheap day trips from Moscow, Sergiyev Posad is a good choice at just a few dollar train ride away. Known as a major center of pilgrimage and home to one of the largest Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, Sergiyev Posad is a fun day trip from Moscow and can be combined with Abramtsevo Museum Estate. As the only town in Moscow Region which is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities, Sergiyev Posad is an incredible destination for a day trip from Moscow that packs UNESCO-protected Trinity Sergius Lavra, great museums, and gorgeous architecture into one day.

Make sure you see the six-pillared Assumption Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in mid-16th-century and go inside to marvel at the impressive iconostasis that features Simon Ushakov’s masterpiece, the icon of Last Supper. Enjoy a delicious lamb steak with wheat kasha, Ukha fish soup, or hand-made dumplings as you learn a lot about religious and cultural history.

Getting There: Known for its small-town charm and welcoming feel, you can get to Sergiyev Posad by train, by bus, or by car. Trains depart from Yaroslavsky Rail Terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus at the ‘VDNKh’ metro station. A bus trip to Sergiyev Posad takes two hours on average but can be reached in 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go by car expect to spend about an hour and a half attempting to traverse the congested Yaroslavskoye highway.

5. Day Trip to Yaroslavl from Moscow

Going from Moscow to Yaroslavl may seem like a really long day trip, but honestly, if you take the comfortable train, it only takes about four hours to reach the city, so making a Yaroslavl day trip is totally doable. Although I do recommend much more than one day in Yaroslavl, especially if it’s your first time.

Cultural tourists visiting Yaroslavl should start their exploration by strolling the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious 100-hectare area enclosed by Sobinova and Republican streets is home to most popular attractions – the 17th-century Church of Elijah the Prophet that survived almost exactly in its original form, and in contrast to it, the white stone Assumption Cathedral, restored in the 2000s.

golden ring russia

If you walk a bit further passing the Holy Trinity sculpture and city’s foundation stone, you will find yourself at Strelka, a park on the cape, which offers panoramic views of the spot at the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. On the way back, there is a pleasant walk along the picturesque Volga embankment to the Governor’s Garden with shadowy alleys and an open-air Sculpture museum.

Getting There: Yaroslavl is about 280 km (173 miles) northeast of Moscow, so the best way to get there is to take a morning train from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal. A tour is also a great way to see the Yaroslavl without having to worry about driving or searching for trains. You can book a tour here.

6. Day Trip to Arkhangelskoye Estate from Moscow

Situated on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th-century, Arkhangelskoye Estate was the domain of the nobility for over a century until the Russian Revolution swept people who owned the estate out of the country. The estate was turned into a museum, which it remains today.

cities close to moscow worth visiting

The Arkhangelskoye Estate Museum holds the largest rare-book collection. The exhibition also includes old manuscripts, historical documents, photos from the past, a vast collection of sculpture, paintings, engravings, and exceptional examples of decorative art. These art objects once belonged to Prince Nikolai Yusupov, the former owner of the estate.

train trips from moscow

Arkhangelskoye Estate is often referred to as the Russian version of Versailles because of the intricately manicured garden and beautiful 18th-century park. Famous Russian writers and poets such as Pushkin, Herzen, Mayakovsky loved to spend their free time here making long excursions in the surrounding area. Arkhangelskoye is a perfect place to appreciate the terraces decorated by delightful statues, exquisite vases, and busts.

Visitors can take tours, which introduce them to vibrant examples of Russian art and culture.

Getting There: To reach the estate it’s best to take a bus or a privately-owned minibus that departs from Tushinskaya metro station.

7. Day Trip to Vladimir from Moscow

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is absolutely one of the best places to visit near Moscow for a day trip. This splendid city dates back to the 12th century and has a very rich history. If magnificent Orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture entice you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your significant other.

First things first, you need to see the Golden Gate, which indicates the entrance into the old town. This 12th-century medieval masterpiece of military architecture is associated not only with Vladimir but with the Golden Ring tourist route itself. At the top of the gate, where once was the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, there is the Museum of Weapons. Great looking arrowheads and spear points date back to the Grand Principality of Vladimir, while the exhibition in an impressively majestic setting features a number of Batu-Khan related artifacts.

There’s a variety of attractions to put on your must-see list: the Old Believers Trinity Church right behind it, the Cathedral of St Demetrius, and Dormition (Uspensky) Cathedral. If you plan on shopping for souvenirs like birch-bark masterpieces of Kunov’s masters, drawings, carving, embossing, figures of people and animals, stop by the Lacquer Miniature, the Museum of Crystal, and the Gingerbread Museum. Many of the local attractions were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Getting There: The best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from Moscow and book a full-day tour of Vladimir in advance. This one includes the town of Suzdal as well.

8. Day Trip to Suzdal from Moscow

This gem of a little medieval town perched on a hill just a 30-minute ride from Vladimir is one of those places I’ve visited and could move there permanently and be happy! It’s a charming little piece of history that also has a Kremlin and visiting it feels like stepping back in time. if you’re a culture enthusiast you’ll be glad to know there are numerous churches, five monasteries, including Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in Suzdal. Check them out if you want to get a real taste of the country!

cheap day trips from moscow

pend some time shopping at the Torgovaya ploshchad (Market Square), where you can buy baskets made of birch bark, ceramic handmade plates, honey or souvenirs and, of course, grab some afternoon tea!

Getting There: Trains leave regularly from Moscow’s Kurskiy Rail Terminal to Vladimir where you can hop on a bus to Suzdal. You can also take a bus from Moscow. In this case, it might take longer and you’ll probably encounter infamous traffic jams. If you go by express train the trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. There are slower trains of course, but I’d recommend going with the fast one and save a lot of time!

9. Day Trip to Korolev from Moscow

Located some 30 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Korolev has become arguably the most important space research center with skilled workers from across the Soviet Union who came here to expand the space program.

It became a leading institute dedicated to aerospace research in the country. Today, that tendency can still be clearly seen on the streets and in the buildings. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the city retained its status as the headquarters of Russia’s space surveillance network and now it hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, an analogue of the American Mission Control Center at NASA’s Space Center in Houston.

If you want to learn more about Mission Control Center and the former Russian Mir space station, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can clearly tell the history of this place.

If you’re not into space exploration there is also a Memorial Apartment Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva in Bolshevo. With a picturesque park next to the museum, it’s a great place for walking in the fresh air. The highlight of the park is memorial stones with quotes from Tsvetaeva’s poems.

Getting There: I’d recommend going by train. Catch one at Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal that departs every 30 minutes to reach Bolshevo station.

10. Day Trip to Borodino from Moscow

The historic Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, took place just outside the small village of Borodino, about 140 km west of Moscow, and about 15 km from the nearest town of Mozhaysk. Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went to capture Moscow, it was one of the bloodiest battles of the pre-twentieth-century that is also predetermined Napoleon’s defeat.

While it was a battlefield back then, not much remains today. It’s mostly a green and grassy field now with a few monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to 19th and 20th century, and fortification facilities scattered throughout the area. The largest of these is the 27-meter high obelisk located right at the heart of the former battlefield.

Every year the military and patriotic festival and theatrical performance take place in Borodino. Early September is considered to be the best for visiting. But if you just want to feel the spirit of the battle, it’s better to go at any other time of the year.

Getting there: Hop on a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, disembark in Mozhaysk, and then take a bus to the museum. The whole travel time is about 2 hours.

11. Day Trip to Patriot Park in Kubinka from Moscow

Once a Red Army tank training ground, now it’s a military Disneyland with history, structure, guns, and armored vehicles! The tank museum originally housed one of the world’s largest and rarest collections of tanks. In 2016 they combined the training grounds with the newly-created Patriot Park. Since then, some of the notable and rare items have been moved to the Patriot Park site, so you may want to combine both sites into one tour (only about 20 minutes apart).

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The exhibition grounds include some very rare specimens that are must-see for any military enthusiasts out there. The staff is friendly, helpful and kind, while the museum has a small shop. As this site is part of an operating military base, they may ask you to show your passport, or provide them with a photocopy of the front pages. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks, and there are bathroom facilities. There’s plenty to see, so I recommend setting aside an entire day!

Getting there: Situated halfway between Borodino and Moscow, the best way to reach Patriot Park in Kubinka is by car. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent one, consider car-sharing apps like Gett or UBER. The price of ride-sharing services is cheap enough to make them a viable proposition for choosing them.

12. Day Trip to Melikhovo from Moscow

Located some 80 km from Moscow, Melikhovo is one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. This renowned Russian writer and playwright acquired Melikhovo in 1892. He lived there with his parents and close relatives for 7 years before moving to the Crimea in 1899. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “The Man in the Case” and “The Seagull”.

The estate faded into oblivion right after the Revolution but in 1939 Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew established a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1941.

Today museum’s exhibition reveals the legacy of a celebrated writer and shows his path not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. The collection also features some of the best-known paintings by famous artists like Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends. When it comes to fun and educational day trips from Moscow, Melikhovo is a nice place for learning more about Chekov’s life and work.

Getting There: You can reach Melikhovo by train from Kurskiy rail Terminal. Disembark in the town of Chekhov and hop on a minibus that will get to the estate. Alternatively, hop on a bus that departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station.

13. Day Trip to Gorki Leninskie from Moscow

Once the realm of Russian nobles, Gorki Leninskie was turned into Lenin’s museum some 25 years after his death. The estate sits some 30-minute bus ride from the Domodedovskaya metro station and houses Soviet-era memorabilia and Lenin’s memorial flat recently transferred from the Kremlin, as well as his vintage Rolls-Royce.

Most people only associate this place with the name of the first communist leader. In fact, the name of the estate was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 16th-century. Throughout its history, the estate was owned by a number of prominent figures. It’s in fact one of the best museums that holds the country’s finest collection 19th-century furnishings and a unique collection of domestic items owned by nobles. Plus, ancient Vyatichi native tribe or East Slavs who inhabited a part of the Oka basin’s burial mounds and a few notable sculptures are hidden behind the avenues of lime trees in the park.

Getting There: You could, of course, hop on a bus from Domodedovskaya metro station. But it would be much easier just to use UBER or Gett. The estate isn’t that far from the Moscow Circle Road but going there by bus may involve some navigating.

14. Day Trip to Kaluga from Moscow

If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Moscow, look no farther than Kaluga! This beautiful city could really entertain you for more than just a day, but to get a taste of science, be sure to visit the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics. Or in other words, the Space Museum.

Visitors to the museum will learn more about the history of space exploration. In fact, this is one of the largest Space Museums in Russia, which opened its doors in Kaluga in 1967. Here you can see a prototype of the iconic MIR space station and a duplicate of the Voskhod rocket. The very same rocket that took the first man to space. There’s also a planetarium, which from the outside resembles a spaceship.

Kaluga is a totally walkable city. Make sure to spend some time strolling Teatralnaya street with the authentic 19th-century pavement that now marks the Kilometer Zero. Then walk across the 18th-century Kamenniy Most (the Stone Bridge) that somewhat resembles a Roman aqueduct. If you’re an architecture buff marvel at the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian.

It is assumed that the church was erected by one of the followers of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1794. The church resembles the Smolny Convent in St. Petersburg. With five church towers directed upward and six tiers of oblong windows give the exterior a sense of lightness and airiness.

Getting There: Trains from Kiyevsky Rail Terminal to Kaluga leave every 90 minutes. The trip takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

15. Day Trip to Monino from Moscow

Are you looking for great family & kid-friendly day trips from Moscow? If so, consider visiting the Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino. This unique military open-air museum is home to over 180 Russian aircraft and 100 aircraft engines and the perfect place to go when your crowd is looking for a break from hectic city life. Check this tour if you don’t feel like planning.

things to do outside of moscow

This site was formerly an operational airbase from 1932 till 1956 and many of the Russian aviation Design bureaus have made a contribution to the operation and maintenance of the museum. Along with aircraft from the Second World War, there are the TU-95 Bear four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and the TU-144 Charger a Soviet supersonic passenger airliner (which resembled the Concorde). The museum also has exhibits related to military aviation history such as the uniform of captured U2 pilot Gary Powers.

Getting There: This museum is located at Monino Town, about 30 km from Moscow. It is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays and Tuesdays. To get there take a train departing from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal and disembark at Monino station. Alternatively, hop on a bus from Schelkovskaya or Partizanskaya metro station.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

I hope this post has helped you discover some amazing day trips from Moscow. From imposing cathedrals, mighty fortresses and monasteries, there are a lot of incredible places to visit the Russian capital, and the best part is that getting there is always ways to get around on the cheap.

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Great article for visitors in Moscow , thanks for sharing

best travel purse for woman

Marie Hernandez

I hadn’t considered traveling to Moscow until NOW! Fantastic post and ideas for visitors! Thanks!

best travel purse for woman

Graham Marsden

Nice to see so many options outside of Moscow, but I have to say I wish this list had a recommendation for a hike or a beautiful natural areas or national parks. Maybe the next list!

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I have to admit that I knew nothing about the area surrounding Moscow. This is definitely an inspiring list of places to go.

best travel purse for woman

When I read this article about Moscow. I wanted to pack my bags and get there sooner. thank you for the great write up.

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best travel purse for woman

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