Here at BMT, we love backpacks, especially for hiking, beach days, and trips where a detachable daypack comes in handy. But backpacks are not always ideal for sightseeing. They can be inconvenient to access and may leave your belongings more vulnerable to theft when carried behind you.
A typical shoulder bag or purse has its own drawbacks. It may be too small for everything you need for a day out, and short handles can make it less secure and less comfortable to carry.
That is where crossbody bags come in. They keep your hands free, make your belongings easier to reach, and can offer more security while sightseeing.
In this post, we are sharing some of the best crossbody bags for travel, including recommendations from the BMT Community and bags we have personally used on our own trips. Whether you want a long-lasting budget option or a bag with extra security features, there is something here for different travel styles and budgets.
This post contains affiliate links.
How We Chose the Best Crossbody Bags for Travel
We started with recommendations from members of the BMT Community and team. We then compared each bag’s size, materials, closures, and travel-friendly features.
A good crossbody bag should feel comfortable and hold everything you need for a day of sightseeing. This may include your phone, wallet, camera, water bottle, umbrella, and a light layer.
We looked for bags with these important features:
1. Room for a water bottle: Staying hydrated is easier when your bottle fits inside the bag or in a secure outer pocket.
2. Secure zippers: Zippered compartments can make it harder for someone to access your belongings. Even better if they lock!
3. Water-resistant materials: A water-resistant bag can help protect your phone, camera, and other essentials if it’s raining.
4. Durable construction: The bag should withstand long sightseeing days, frequent travel, and regular use.
This guide was created by Brittany Quaglieri, a long-time BMT contributor, with help from the BMT Community via a Facebook post in the private group. Products were last checked in September 2026, and bags that are personally owned and tested by Brittany and Jackie are labeled below.
Best Crossbody Bags For Travel
With these criteria in mind, these are the best crossbody bags for travel according to Jackie, me, and the BMT community members.
Here’s a super condensed, quick-decision table for you, but keep reading for all the super helpful, first-hand-use details!
| Bag | Best For | Size | Approx Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travelon Classic Messenger | Anti-theft travel | 9 x 12.5 x 3.5 in / 4.5L | $88 |
| Haiku Jaunt Crossbody Bag | Eco-friendly travel | 11.25 x 9.5 x 3.5 in | $59 |
| Kipling Gabbie Small Crossbody | Lightweight storage | 11.5 x 8.75 x 6.5 in / 7L | $80 |
| LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag | Extra storage | 9.75 x 14 x 5 in | $115 |
| AmeriBag 17″ Healthy Back Bag | All-day comfort | 17 x 9 x 6 in / 6L | $75 |
| Osprey Arcane Small Crossbody | Minimalist travel | 7.9 x 6.1 x 2 in / 1.5L | $45 |
| Osprey Daylite Sling | All-day sightseeing | 14.2 x 8.7 x 5.1 in / 5L | $60 |
| Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Crossbody | Unisex anti-theft travel | 6.3 x 9.5 x 2.8 in / 2.5L | $75 |
| Daymakers Large Guide Bag | Organization | 11 x 9 x 4.5 in | $84 |
Travelon Classic Messenger Bag
*Personally owned by Brittany, BMT contributor.
Best For Anti-Theft Travel
This was my first Travelon bag. Yes, I have multiple now.
The Classic Messenger has traveled with me for years and still goes on trips today because it holds plenty without feeling bulky. I have carried my DSLR camera, Kindle or a paperback book, epi-pens, phone, wallet, a snack, and a reusable water bottle all at the same time in this bag before.
Its biggest advantage is by far the combination of everyday practicality and built-in security. It is also a great option if you want a crossbody bag with water bottle holder space, since it has two dedicated bottle pockets.
Tip: I would sometimes store an umbrella in the second water bottle pocket.
Approximate Price: $88
Size/Capacity: 9 x 12.5 x 3.5 inches / 4.5 L
Weight: 1.1 pounds
Material: Polyester
Security: Locking zippers, slash-resistant body panels, cut-resistant strap, RFID-blocking card and passport slots, and lockdown strap
Fits: Phone, wallet, passport, small daily essentials, Kindle or book
Why we recommend it: The brand carries a wide array of styles, all with their signature security features including slash-resistant body panels and straps, zipper locks for each compartment, and RFID blocking technology.
Besides great security features, these bags each have at least one water bottle compartment and are made with durable, water-resistant polyester material.
Pros
- Anti-theft features. You know you are safe from slash-and-grab thieves, pickpockets, and electronic identity theft with these features.
- Not one, but TWO water bottle pockets
Consider before buying
- The fabric is actually kind of slippery, so the strap adjuster slowly slips throughout the day, subtly lengthening the strap more and more until it becomes uncomfortable. Eventually, I decided to use a safety pin to secure the strap and the problem stopped.
- The mesh fabric of the water bottle pocket got stuck in its zipper all the time, and finally tore a hole in it one time. A bummer, but the pocket still works.
BMT community experience:
“Awesome brand of products. Practical and was perfect for rain in London. It also protects against credit card scans and knife slashes.”
“I have a Travelon purse that meets all of those requirements. My DSLR even fits in it.”
Recommended Travelon Styles
Haiku Jaunt Crossbody Bag
*BMT Community recommendation.
Best For Eco-Friendly Travel
These travel crossbody bags check all the boxes. Plus, it’s a company owned and led by women who creatively use recycled plastic bottles to build each bag. So, purchasing one supports women in business and the environment. Win-win!
Haiku Jaunt uses recycled materials while still offering RFID protection, locking zippers, water resistance, and useful travel organization.
Approximate Price: $74
Size 11.25 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches
Weight: Not currently listed by Haiku
Material: 100% recycled cyclepet exterior fabric with recycled polyester lining.
Security: Toggle-locking zipper and RFID-blocking card slot
Fits: Wallet, phone, passport, keys, camera, e-reader, and other sightseeing essentials
Why we recommend it: Haiku has long been recommended by the BMT Community for travel. The Jaunt combines the brand’s recycled materials with practical travel features. Multiple interior and exterior pockets keep essentials organized and easy to reach while you’re out exploring .
Pros
- Made with recycled, water-resistant materials.
- Includes multiple pockets, RFID protection, and a locking zipper for added organization and security.
Consider before buying
- There is no dedicated water bottle pocket, so it may not be the best choice if carrying a water bottle is a priority.
BMT community experience:
“I traveled everywhere with a Haiku crossbody! Different sizes and options to fit various needs.”
Other Recommended Haiku Styles
Kipling Gabbie Small Crossbody
*BMT Community recommendation.
Best For Lightweight Storage
Founded in 1987, Kipling provides durable, lightweight, and functional luggage and handbags for women. The crossbody designs meet our criteria with zippers, water-resistant nylon material, and a large enough main compartment to hold a water bottle.
The Kipling Gabbie Small Crossbody stands out among lightweight crossbody bags for travel because it weighs only 0.73 pounds but has a 7-liter capacity and several zippered compartments.
Approximate Price: $109
Size/Capacity: 11.5 x 8.75 x 6.5 in / 7 L
Weight: .73 lbs
Material: Nylon and recycled nylon exterior with recycled polyester lining. Water-resistant.
Security: Multiple zippered exterior and interior compartments
Fits: Wallet, phone, passport, water bottle, e-reader, compact camera, and other sightseeing essentials
Why we recommend it: The Gabbie Small offers plenty of storage without adding much weight to your day bag. Multiple zippered pockets make it easy to organize smaller essentials, while the 7-liter capacity leaves room for items you may need during a full day of sightseeing.
Pros
- Lightweight at less than one pound, despite its roomy 7-liter capacity.
- Water-resistant with several exterior and interior pockets for organization.
Consider before buying
- It does not include dedicated anti-theft features like RFID blocking, locking zippers, or slash-resistant materials.
BMT community experience:
“I have a few [Kipling] bags, and they’ve been sturdy for years.”
Other Recommended Kipling Styles
LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag
*BMT Community recommendation.
Best For Extra Storage
LeSportsac has been making durable bags perfect for busy travelers since the 1970s. These zippered designs are all large enough to hold a water bottle and your other daily needs, and are constructed with water-resistant nylon material.
The Deluxe Everyday Bag gives you plenty of storage without feeling like a full-size daypack. It has two main compartments, several zippered pockets, and an expandable front compartment when you need more room.
Approximate Price: $115
Size: 9.75 x 14 x 5 in
Weight: About 0.84 pounds
Material: Lightweight ripstop fabric made with recycled post-industrial fibers. Water-resistant.
Security: Two zippered main compartments and multiple zippered exterior and interior pockets. No dedicated anti-theft features.
Fits: Phone, wallet, water bottle, travel documents, and other sightseeing essentials
Why we recommend it: The Deluxe Everyday Bag offers more storage than many traditional crossbody bags while remaining lightweight. The expandable compartment gives you extra room when needed, and multiple zippered pockets help keep smaller items organized and easy to reach.
Pros
- Expandable front compartment provides extra storage without requiring a larger bag.
- Multiple zippered compartments and an included matching pouch make it easy to organize travel essentials.
Consider before buying
- It does not include dedicated anti-theft features like RFID protection, locking zippers, or slash-resistant materials.
BMT community experience:
“I like LeSportsac for their aesthetic/practicality combination- they come in lots of prints and sizes and hold up well, though are more water-resistant than waterproof.”
Ameribag Healthy Back Bag
*BMT Community recommendation.
Best For All-Day Comfort
The AmeriBag Healthy Back Bag earns the comfort category because its ergonomic teardrop shape is designed to contour to the body and distribute weight along the length of the bag. It can be worn crossbody or over either shoulder.
They come in many sizes and colors that will appeal to both women and men, but all share the same ergonomic and functional design.
Approximate Price: $75
Size/Capacity: 17 x 9 x 6 in / 6 L
Weight: .80 pounds
Material: Recycled nylon. Lightweight, durable, machine washable, and weather-resistant.
Security: Main zipper sits against your back while worn, plus a hidden interior zippered pocket for valuables, devices, and travel documents.
Fits: Phone, wallet, passport, e-reader or small tablet, water bottle, and other sightseeing essentials
Why we recommend it: The Healthy Back Bag is designed around comfort rather than simply adding more padding. Its shape keeps the bag close to your body and helps distribute the weight instead of pulling from one point on your shoulder. The 6-liter capacity also gives you enough room for sightseeing essentials without becoming overly bulky.
Pros
- Ergonomic shape is designed to distribute weight and stay close to the body.
- Lightweight and weather-resistant with a main zipper positioned against your back for added security.
Consider before buying
- It does not have dedicated anti-theft features like RFID blocking, locking zippers, or slash-resistant materials.
BMT community experience:
“I love my Ameribag that does all that.” [referring to our criteria checklist.]
Osprey Arcane Small Crossbody
*Personally owned by Jackie.
Best For Minimalist Travel
One of Jackie’s newest additions to her carry-on only essentials. According to Jackie, it’s the “perfect travel companion.”
Jackie loves how the Arcane Small Crossbody stays snug against the body while holding essentials like a passport, phone, Kindle, sunglasses, and headphones. And, of course, the zippered closure because all travel purses should have one.
She pointed out that the quick-access back pocket is especially useful while going through airport security.
Approximate Price: $45
Size/Capacity: 7.9 x 6.1 x 2 in / 1.5 L
Weight: .32 lbs
Material: 100% recycled polyester with PFAS-free DWR water-resistant treatment
Security: zippered main compartment and zippered front pocket
Fits: passport, phone, Kindle, sunglasses, headphones
Why we recommend it: The Arcane Small Crossbody is a great choice for travelers who only want to carry the essentials. At just 0.32 pounds, it stays close to the body without adding much bulk. The main zip compartment and quick-access back pocket also make it especially practical for airports and sightseeing.
Pros
- Snug fit keeps your passport, phone, and other essentials close to your body.
- Quick-access back pocket makes frequently used items easy to reach while traveling.
Consider before buying
- At only 1.5 liters, it is designed for essentials and will not hold larger items like a water bottle or extra layer.
- The front zipper pocket sits beneath a flap, which Jackie found a little awkward to access.
- It does not have dedicated anti-theft features such as locking zippers, RFID protection, or slash-resistant materials.
Osprey Daylite Sling Bag Driftshade
*Personally owned by Jackie.
Best For All-Day Sightseeing
“According to Jackie, the Osprey Daylite Sling Bag Driftshade is a comfortable travel sling bag and an upgrade from the earlier Daylite Slings she traveled with.”
The wider padded strap distributes weight more evenly, while the breathable back panel makes it better suited to long sightseeing days. She also likes the quick-access front pocket, interior organization, and compact size for flights.
Despite its 5-liter capacity, Jackie found it roomy enough for a Kindle, water bottle, extra layer, travel essentials, and even a large hardcover book. Osprey also designed it for left- or right-shoulder carry, which makes it easy to adjust throughout the day.
Approximate Price: $60
Size/Capacity: 14.2 x 8.7 x 5.1 in / 5L
Weight: .59 pounds
Material: 100% recycled 600D heathered polyester with recycled polyester lining and PFAS-free DWR water-resistant treatment
Security: Zippered main compartment and interior zippered organization. No dedicated anti-theft features.
Fits: Kindle, water bottle, extra layer, phone, passport, keys, headphones, and other sightseeing or in-flight essentials
Why we recommend it: The Daylite Sling combines a compact design with enough room for a full day out. The padded shoulder strap and breathable back panel make it more comfortable for longer wear, while the pockets keep frequently used items easy to reach.
Pros
- Wide, padded shoulder strap and breathable back panel make it comfortable for long sightseeing days.
- 5-liter capacity holds more than its compact size suggests.
Consider before buying
- It does not include dedicated anti-theft features like locking zippers, RFID protection, or slash-resistant materials.
- At 5 liters, it is still a small sling and may feel crowded if you regularly carry bulky items.
Pacsafe GO Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag
*Selected through editorial research.
Best For Unisex Anti-Theft Travel
The Pacsafe GO is one of the best anti-theft crossbody bags for travel if you want more security without carrying a bulky bag.
Pacsafe has long been known for anti-theft travel bags, and the GO combines slash-resistant materials, securable zippers, and RFID protection in a simple unisex design.
It is also made from recycled polyester equivalent to seven recycled plastic bottles and has a water-resistant finish.
Approximate Price: $75
Size/Capacity: 6.3 x 9.5 x 2.8 in / 2.5 L
Weight: .62 pounds
Material: 600D recycled polyester with recycled polyester lining. Water-resistant and PFC-free.
Security: RFID-blocking pocket, securable zippers, slash-resistant body panels, cut-resistant strap, security hook, and secure dock lock
Fits: Phone, wallet, sunglasses, passport, keys, and a 7-inch tablet
Why we recommend it: The Pacsafe GO packs more dedicated anti-theft features into a small crossbody than most bags on this list. It keeps everyday essentials close without looking overly technical, which makes it useful for airports, public transportation, and crowded sightseeing areas.
Pros
- Includes RFID protection, slash-resistant construction, and multiple zipper-security features.
- Compact 2.5-liter design still fits a phone, wallet, sunglasses, and 7-inch tablet.
Consider before buying
- The 2.5-liter capacity is best for essentials. It is too small for larger items like a water bottle, extra layer, or full-size camera.
Daymakers Large Guide Bag
*BMT Community recommendation.
Best For Organization
The Daymakers Large Guide Bag is a strong choice for travelers who want a place for everything. It has 11 pockets, a built-in organizer, and room for larger items like an iPad and water bottle.
It also includes several anti-theft features. These include RFID-blocking storage, zipper security leashes, and a cut-resistant strap reinforced with steel cables.
Approximate Price:: $84
Size: 11 x 9 x 4.5 in
Weight: 1.4 lbs
Material: Ballistic polyester exterior with polyester lining
Security: RFID-blocking wallet and pocket, zipper security leashes, cut-resistant strap with steel cables, and interior anchor points for securing valuables
Fits: Water bottle, iPad, phone, wallet, passport, sunglasses, keys, camera, and other sightseeing essentials
Why we recommend it: The Large Guide Bag stands out for its organization. It has dedicated spaces for small valuables, travel documents, electronics, and everyday essentials. The security features also make it a good option for travelers who want more protection in crowded cities or on public transportation.
Pros
- Eleven pockets plus a built-in organizer make it easy to keep travel essentials separated and easy to find.
- Includes several anti-theft features without sacrificing room for a water bottle, tablet, or camera.
Consider before buying
- At 1.4 lbs, it is heavier than many of the other crossbody bags on this list.
BMT community experience:
“… the bag I got converts in different ways, including everyday purse and fanny pack. Lots of [protective] factors would be needed for the bold thieves of European cities. Also, [the] fabric [is] easy to care for and durable. I do find, though, the one I have is too small to carry a normal 16oz or so water bottle.”
Recommended Daymakers Styles
Which Crossbody Bag Is Best for Your Trip?
The best crossbody bag for travel really depends on what you carry and how you like to explore. The best travel purse for sightseeing should ultimately fit your essentials, feel comfortable for hours, and suit the level of security you want.
- If security is your biggest concern, Travelon and Pacsafe offer the strongest anti-theft features.
- If you want to travel light, the Osprey Arcane Small Crossbody keeps just the essentials close.
- For long sightseeing days, the Osprey Daylite Sling and AmeriBag Healthy Back Bag put more emphasis on comfort.
Whichever one you choose, look for a bag that fits what you actually carry, feels comfortable after hours of walking, and makes it easy to reach your essentials without constantly taking it off.
Have a favorite travel crossbody bag we missed? Let us know. We are always looking for recommendations from fellow travelers.
More BMT Travel Gear Guides
- How to Choose the Perfect Travel Backpack
- Travel Backpack Review: Osprey Farpoint 55
- The Ultimate Travel Packing List: A Year in a Carry On Backpack
- Best Travel Shoes According to the Experts
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Some of these links are affiliate links.
Use these BMT-approved travel resources to plan your best budget-friendly trip yet!
Flights – Learn our tried and true strategies for finding the cheapest flights.
Accommodations – Using Booking.com to search for hostels and budget hotels has many benefits, including free cancelation and member upgrades.
Travel Insurance – Now more than ever, we encourage the purchase of travel insurance for every trip. Insurance protects you against cancellations, lost luggage, theft, injury, and illness. Here are the ones I use the most often:
- SafetyWing – covers travel medical and trip delay/cancelation
- Battleface – customizable protection including cancel-for-any-reason
Activities – Find amazing things to do that won’t break the bank in destinations worldwide on Viator or GetYourGuide.
Car Rentals – Road trip at home and abroad with a reliable and affordable car found at GetRentaCar.com.
Sites that do it all – Find and compare prices for nearly everything you need to plan a trip including flights, accommodations, rentals on Klook and Agoda.
Need an international SIM card? We suggest pre-ordering from SimOptions.