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If you are planning a trip, you need to decide how you will be toting around your daily essentials. If your current purse is too large or too small, or you are looking for more security and convenience, a travel handbag is the answer. These bags are designed specifically for travel and sightseeing, many with extra security features or other design elements. The bags on our list will help you stay more organized and comfortable on your next vacation. We have gathered together the best travel purses for your next trip keeping in mind a focus on value, price, and features. Find your best travel handbag and still have extra cash for souvenirs…that’s a definite win! Let’s get to it.
Quick Picks for the Best Travel Purse (read ahead for the guide and individual reviews)
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Travel Handbag Buyer’s Guide
Size
Everyone has different items that they consider essential for travel. Make a list of your must-haves before searching for your next travel purse. If you are wanting ultra-lightweight, with just enough room for your phone, credit cards, and passport, then a small crossbody bag is perfect. If you will be bringing along your ereader, or an iPad (or both), then a bigger bag is needed. Will you be stashing extra clothes, a water bottle, or an umbrella? Then one of the larger bags on our list will meet your needs. Be sure to read each bag’s dimensions to ensure you order the right size for all of your travel gear.
Style
Travel bags come in a variety of styles, from sporty to chic. There are even a couple of unisex styles on our list. A lot of travelers love their handbags so much that they end up using them for their everyday purse, so be sure to find a style that best suits you. Many of the bags on our list also come in a wide variety of colors or prints. Just because it is practical does not mean that your travel purse can’t look great too.
Number and Size of Pockets
You want your travel purse to accommodate all of your things, but you also need these things to be easy to find. A great travel purse has numerous pockets, giving all of your essentials their own place. Look for passport pockets, a dedicated cell phone pocket, and larger pockets for tablets, books, or travel guides. Also think about the pockets’ closures: do you feel more secure with zippers or are buttons and snaps ok?
Many of the purses on our list have side pockets for water bottles, but sometimes that can be too small for reusable bottles. This may certainly be a deal breaker for some, so keep this in mind when picking your perfect travel purse.
Anti-Theft Features
Several of the bags on our list have specific anti-theft features that can make a huge difference in your mental comfort level when traveling. RFID blocking is common and a great way to ensure that your personal information is not easily stolen. Some bags even include slash proof panels and straps.
If you are concerned about pick-pockets, look for the bags that include locking zippers (accomplished by a simple hook and latch). Some purse straps are also detachable, allowing for them to be wrapped around a pole, or your chair, while you are enjoying a meal al fresco. If security is top of mind, many of our picks will have you covered.
Our Top Picks for Travel Purses and Handbags
Travelon Heritage Crossbody Bag –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Travelon is a very popular travel handbag brand, and their Heritage Crossbody bag is a great mid-size option. The main compartment is surprisingly roomy, including an interior, zippered RFID blocking pocket (perfect for your passport and credit cards) and two additional open pockets as well. The Heritage also has zippered front and rear pockets and a tethered key clip. This bag has a considerable amount of pockets for its size, helping to keep you organized while exploring.
The Travelon Heritage is very attractive and would also look great during a night out or just wearing to the office. It is also a very comfortable bag to wear. It comes in five different colors: merlot, navy, oatmeal, pewter, and sage. The outside of the bag is a durable cotton canvas with suede accents. The hardware is a matte nickel color and the inner lining is a pinstripe fabric…very cute!
What really sets Travelon apart is the extensive security features. The Heritage Crossbody bag has slash resistant side and bottom panels and a slash resistant shoulder strap. The front and rear zippered pockets can be locked. It also has the interior RFID blocking pocket for extra security. An extra plus is the little LED flashlight that comes with this bag, making it easier to find what you need, no matter where you are. This bag is an excellent choice for travel or just everyday use.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 9.75 x 7.75 x 2.5in
- Weight: 9.9 ounces
- Strap length: adjustable 13 to 25in
- Slash resistant panels and shoulder strap
- Locking zippers
- RFID blocking zippered interior pocket
- Great looking bag
Cons:
- A little small for some – can hold an iPad mini, but not a larger sized tablet
Baggallini Avenue Tote Bag –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Like Travelon, Baggallini is an extremely popular travel bag brand. Founded by two flight attendants, travel is certainly top of mind when it comes to design. The Baggallini Avenue Tote bag is one of the larger bags on our list, while still remaining relatively affordable.
It offers a zippered main compartment with several interior pockets. It even includes a padded laptop pocket, large enough for a 13” laptop. It also has an exterior zippered pocket, providing quick access to your phone. One of Baggallini’s signature features is the back zippered area, designed for sliding over your luggage handle. This is a great feature and really frees you up to better navigate the airport or your hotel.
The Baggallini Avenue Tote is a very stylish and professional looking bag. It comes in a huge variety of colors and prints. Included in the 16 choices are charcoal, beach, portobello, midnight blossom, juniper, or just a classic black. It is made of 100% polyester, including the lining. One major plus of this material…it is machine washable! It is also very lightweight and durable.
This bag is definitely a favorite of ours. It has been specifically designed to fit under your seat while flying, making this the perfect carry-on bag. Though this bag does not offer many security features, if you are looking for a large bag that was thoughtfully designed for travel, this is a great choice.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 12 x 18.5 x 5.5in
- Weight: 1lb 4oz
- Adjustable and removable 52in strap
- Top handles with 10in shoulder drop
- Durable and attractive
- Laptop pocket
- Designed to slide over luggage handle
Cons:
- Could use more zippered pockets
- Back zippered area does not make a good pocket as bottom is likely to unzip
- No security features
MINICAT Small Crossbody Bag –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you prefer to travel ultra-light, then the MINICAT small crossbody bag is a great choice. It is the perfect size for your most essential items: passport, keys, credit cards, phone, and even a lipstick or a compact. The cutouts on the front of the bag don’t just add style; they are also designed to allow you to hear your phone more easily. If you need ample credit card space, the “thick” models come with 6 credit card slots. The regular style includes 3 credit card slots, and both have RFID blocking.
The MINICAT crossbody bag is made of a premium synthetic leather. The interior lining is very soft, alleviating worries of scratching up your phone’s screen. It comes in 25 different colors between 3 different designs, so there is definitely one that you will love. In fact, you could get this bag in several different colors to match multiple outfits.
There is good durability and quality with this little bag. This bag has no zippers, which may be a deal-breaker for some, but the clasp is very secure as long as the bag is not overfilled. If you are looking for a cute bag without the bulk, the MINICAT crossbody is an excellent choice.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 2 x 7.5in
- Fits mobile phones with a 7in or smaller screen
- RFID blocking credit card slots
- Adjustable 54in strap
- Great quality and durability
- Attractive purse offered in many different colors and styles
Cons:
- No zippers
eBags Piazza Daybag 2.0 –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for lots of pockets and great organization, then definitely check out eBags Piazza Daybag 2.0. This crossbody bag has a casual style that is very versatile. It would even make a great “man bag” as it has a less feminine style than other travel handbags on our list.
The main draw of the Piazza Daybag are the pockets. With 3 exterior zippered pockets and also a quick drop pocket (perfect for your phone), you will be able to have a dedicated place for everything. The main compartment includes a pocket for a tablet, though it is important to note that it will not fit a standard iPad. However, this pocket would make a great spot for your ereader or iPad mini. The main compartment also features an interior zippered pocket and 2 smaller open top pockets.
The flap on the front is secured with a very strong magnet, and underneath you will find a zippered RFID blocking pocket and a key leash. Your credit cards and passport will be incredibly secure with this bag’s design. There are also two expandable side pockets, perfect for your sunglasses, a small umbrella, or a small water bottle.
eBags Piazza Daybag is made of a lightweight, soft nylon with sturdy hardware. It is extremely durable, and should last for years. This is a great size bag that holds way more than you would expect.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 9.25 x 9 x 2.5in
- Adjustable strap from 13 – 24in
- RFID blocking
- Pockets, pockets, pockets
- Thoughtful design
- Very durable
Cons:
- Water bottle pockets are too small for many reusable bottles
Satchelli Crossbody Purse –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you like Baggallini, but need a more cost-conscious option, the Satchelli Crossbody purse may be a perfect choice. The Satchelli is another bag that gives you all the pockets. With 3 exterior zippered pockets and 2 interior zippered pockets, all of your travel essentials will be organized and easily accessible. The zippered main compartment also opens much wider than a standard purse. You may find this feature particularly helpful when loading your bag or looking to retrieve an object. There are also 2 side pockets, great for stashing your small water bottle.
Like Baggallini, this purse has a back pocket that unzips at the bottom, allowing you to slide your bag over your luggage handle. This pocket is not useful for much else, though, as it has a tendency to unzip. Another plus is the removable RFID blocking wristlet. This is the perfect place to stash your credit cards or ID. When you need to make a quick trip into a store, just grab it and go.
The Satchelli Crossbody purse can be worn either as a shoulder bag or crossbody. The adjustable strap is very wide and comfortable. The bag is made of lightweight nylon, perfect for toting around while sightseeing. It is also super cute, coming in 6 different colors, many with pretty design prints at the top of the bag. Though it may not be right for you, the women who are happy with this bag really, really seem to love it.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 12 x 10 x 3.5in
- Adjustable 48in wide strap
- Stylish with cute print accents
- Great size and number of pockets
- Luggage handle pocket
- RFID blocking removable wristlet
Cons:
- Water bottle side pockets not big enough for larger bottles
Mundi Jacqui Crossbody Purse –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Mundi Jacqui crossbody purse is another great option when you want to go small. The bag’s description of a “convenient wallet on a string” is perfect. It has a smart phone pocket and six credit card slots. RFID blocking is built into the liner at both the front and back of the interior. This bag also features a zippered change pocket and a cash pocket.
Unlike the MINICAT, this bag’s main compartment is zippered. However, the exterior phone pocket is secured only with a button access. The phone pocket’s size is 4 x 6.5in and should fit most smart phones, as long as you are not using a bulky case.
The Mundi Jacqui is very cute and comes in 22 different colors or prints, including some very pretty floral designs and vibrant colors. The bag is made of vegan leather that is both durable and soft. Both the wrist strap and the crossbody strap can be removed depending on how you are using the bag. This makes it a great choice to use as a wallet in a larger purse. When making a quick trip just add the crossbody strap and you have everything you need in a convenient mini bag.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 7.5 x 1.5in
- Removable wrist strap
- Removable crossbody strap with 26in drop
- Exterior keychain clip
- RFID blocking
Cons:
- Shoulder strap not adjustable
No products found. –
No products found.
Travelon is back on our list, this time in a larger, messenger style bag. Like the Heritage, the Travelon Essential Messenger bag offers a lot of security features. Slash proof panels and strap, locking zippers, and RFID blocking for its six credit card slots. The strap is able to be locked down and secured to any post or chair for added security. It also includes the nifty LED light on its key strap.
This bag has several pockets for organization. The front zippered pocket includes the protected credit card slots and a passport slot. It also has a back zippered pocket. The zippered main compartment has several pockets as well, including one that is zippered. Yes, this bag has a lot of zippers, helping you to keep all of your gear organized and safe.
The Travelon Essential Messenger bag is very comfortable to carry. It is made of 900D polyester and weighs only 12 ounces, but is extremely durable. It’s a great size, and will easily carry an iPad mini or your ereader, as well as many other essentials. You should be able to fit your ereader/tablet, a notebook, wallet, and a small water bottle in the main compartment, leaving plenty of room in the other pockets for smaller items. It comes in 7 different colors, so you are bound to find one that fits your taste.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 9.75 x 10 x 2.5in
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Adjustable, cut proof strap with drop length from 14 to 25in
- RFID blocking pocket
- Locking zippers
- Slash proof panels
- Very durable and easy to wipe clean
Cons:
- Not great for larger objects as the main compartment does not open very wide
Lewis N. Clark Crossbody Bag –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a less feminine style, but still want lots of security features, then have a look at the Lewis N. Clark Crossbody Bag. The anti-theft strap contains stainless steel cables and is designed to be secured to your chair. The bag itself features slash resistant fabric panels, while still remaining lightweight and flexible. The Lewis N. Clark crossbody bag also has a locking zipper.
Unlike the other bags on our list, there is only the one main compartment on this bag. There are no additional outside pockets. However, this compartment does include seven interior pockets…one zippered and the rest are smaller open pockets, which include RFID blocking. Even without exterior pockets, this travel bag will provide you with the organization you need.
The Lewis N. Clark bag is very attractive, with a casual look that is great for both men and women. It is available in four colors: moss, lake, onyx, and plum. This bag is made of a durable nylon and has very secure latches and hardware. The bag design is a little odd as it zips open from the front. However, it is designed to prevent all of your things from just falling out when the zipper is open. This is a very unique, well made bag…a great, everyday bag that will continue to be used long after your trip.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 9.5 x 11 x 3in
- Weight: 15 ounces
- Made of durable nylon
- Adjustable 49in strap, with drop length from 15 to 27in
- Locking zippers
- Slash resistant strap and panels
Cons:
- Only one main pocket
Baggallini Everywhere Bagg –
Last update on 2024-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our last choice is another Baggallini… their very popular Everywhere Bagg. This bag is well loved by many travelers. It includes the signature Baggallini luggage sleeve back pocket, and, just like our other Baggallini pick, this one is also machine washable.
The Everywhere Bagg comes with many pockets. The exterior features one small flap pocket, a small zippered pocket, and a wide zippered pocket. This bag also has a quick access side zippered pocket, adding extra convenience. The main zippered compartment opens wide and offers great organization as well. Even though this is smaller than the Baggallini Avenue tote, it does include a bonus RFID blocking wristlet, and is also still large enough to hold your iPad.
This crossbody bag has a great design and comes in 17 different colors and prints. Almost everyone who owns one loves the pockets and organization this bag offers. It is super cute, but still incredibly functional, and, of course, great for travel.
Specs and Pros:
- Dimensions: 11 x 9 x 5in
- Adjustable 52in strap, with up to a 36in shoulder drop
- Includes removable RFID blocking wristlet
- Machine washable
- Luggage sleeve
- Large enough for an iPad
Cons:
- Only the wristlet is RFID blocking, not the purse itself
- Back zipper used for the luggage sleeve is likely to unzip if being used as a pocket
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