The Best Travel Purses, From Chic Shoulder Bags To Packable Crossbodies

Dimensions: 9.8 x 5.5 x 10.2 inches | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Colors: 19 total | Materials: Rec Oxford, leather trim

Pros:

• Durable and waterproof exterior
• Eight pockets
• Detachable, adjustable crossbody strap

Cons:

• Exterior pockets are not zippered

The MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe earned the top spot on our list thanks to its compact size, well-organized interior and stylish yet durable design. It’s crafted from Rec Oxford fabric and has a padded, almost quilted appearance. The material is waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about the exterior if caught in the rain. There are eight pockets total (six on the inside and two on the outside) to keep you organized on the go, and the main compartment is spacious enough to fit a water bottle, book, passport, wallet, phone, sunglasses and more. Other helpful features include a zip top closure to keep everything secure, a detachable crossbody strap, a phone pocket and a key ring strap. 

Dimensions: 11 x 6.7 x 3.9 inches | Weight: Not listed | Colors: 12 total | Materials: Nylon shell and polyester lining

Pros:

• Affordable
• Adjustable strap
• Two interior pockets

Cons

• Water-repellent finish may wear off over time

If you’re looking for an inexpensive option that you won’t have to be too precious with, we recommend the Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag. It’s shaped like a half-moon and has an adjustable strap to ensure a secure fit. The 100% nylon fabric has a slightly crinkled effect and is treated with a water-repellent finish (although the manufacturer does note that it may wear off over time). There are also two smaller pockets inside for stashing smaller items like a backup charger and wallet. Although the construction is not as thick or durable as our top pick, it’s a great choice if you’re on a budget or want several different colors for variety.

Dimensions: 7.7 x 3.1 x 5.3 inches | Weight: Not listed | Colors: 2 total | Materials: Nylon body and recycled polyester lining

Pros:

• Water-repellent fabric
• Removable, adjustable crossbody strap
• Large exterior zippered pocket

Cons:

• Limited color options (rose blush/silver and bone/silver)

Crossbody bags allow you to go hands-free when traveling and provide enough room for all your essentials without feeling bulky. This iteration from Lululemon has a removable, adjustable crossbody strap, silver hardware, and multiple pockets to stay organized. The exterior pocket zips close to keep your belongings secure, and the back slip pocket keeps your iPhone handy so you can whip it out when you need to make a call. Its casual look makes it best suited for everyday adventures rather than dressier occasions.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.3 inches | Weight: 0.90 pounds | Colors: 12 total | Materials: Slash-resistant nylon

Pros:

• Slash-resistant body and strap
• RFID-blocking pockets and card slots
• Fun colors and patterns to choose from 

Cons:

• Design isn’t as stylish as other options

For international trips or getaways to busy locales, you might feel more secure choosing a purse with anti-theft features. The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag stands out among the competition for its many security components, durable materials and uncluttered design. It’s made from slash-resistant nylon, and the strap has a stainless steel wire that runs through it, so thieves can’t cut it. The bag’s main compartment has an organizer with RFID-blocking pockets and the front zippered pocket locks to keep your valuables secure. Plus, it’s easy to wipe down with a damp cloth when it gets dirty. Reviewers say it’s the perfect size for travel, and it doesn’t feel too bulky or cumbersome, even when filled.

Dimensions: 7 x 8.5 x 3.5 inches | Weight: 1.1 pound pounds | Colors: 3 total | Materials: Italian pebbled leather

Pros:

• Adjustable strap
• Made from genuine leather
• Two spacious main compartments

Cons:

• Expensive
• Add-on accessories cost more

Cuyana is known for its sleek, modern pieces made from gorgeous Italian leather—and this saddle bag is no exception. The pebbled leather is buttery soft, and the elegant shape can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. There are two main compartments—each with its own flap—and a back slip pocket for anything you need quick access to. Both compartments have a magnetic closure, so you won’t have to fumble with zippers when you’re out and about. You can further customize your bag with add-on accessories like an AirPod Case or cardholder.

Dimensions: 9.3 x 4.5 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 1.2 pounds | Colors: 3 total | Materials: Sheepskin leather

Pros:

• Adjustable strap
• Converts to a fanny pack
• Interior key leash and three mesh pockets
• TSA-approved lock can be used with the zippers

Cons:

• Expensive
• Only three color options

Whether you’re planning to shop, hike or catch a live show during your upcoming travels, the Lo & Sons Bond Bag is a great companion. This sling bag will keep your hands free, and its main compartment typically swings to the front of your body, keeping your belongings safe and secure. The main body has three mesh pockets and one zippered pocket with three built-in card slots, so you don’t have to carry a wallet. There’s also a handy key leash and exterior pocket for your phone. 

I’ve owned this bag for over a year and constantly reach for it, whether I’m headed to a sports game, outdoor concert or casual lunch with friends. It looks sleek no matter what I wear it with and is surprisingly spacious for a sling bag.

Dimensions: 6 x 9 x 2.8 inches | Weight: Not listed | Colors: 13 total | Materials: Recycled heavyweight nylon, recycled ripstop nylon lining 

Pros:

• Adjustable, quilted strap 
• Made from recycled, washable nylon
• One interior zip pocket

Cons:

• May not hold up to years of frequent wear
• Lighter colors, like Dove, are a bit see-through 

If you’re looking for a compact shoulder bag that’s functional but still stylish, the Baggu Mini Nylon Shoulder Bag is an excellent pick. It has a structured body that can stand on its own, and it’s made from recycled heavyweight nylon that can be machine-washed. (It’s the only bag on our list that’s washable.) The capacity isn’t huge, but it feels spacious for a smaller bag and works well for everyday use. Customers also appreciate the fun color options and say it’s incredibly lightweight.

Dimensions: 20.1 x 13.1 x 7.3 inches | Weight: Not listed | Colors: 3 total | Materials: Polished pebble leather, fabric lining

Pros:

• Made from polished leather
• Three distinct interior compartments
• Protective feet on bottom of bag

Cons:

• Expensive
• Strap is not adjustable

Easily the largest bag on our list, the Lana Shoulder Bag is a beautifully crafted travel purse that can hold sizable items like an iPad, MacBook Air or an extra pair of shoes. It’s made from pebble leather with a layer of gloss that gives it a stylish sheen, and its flat shoulder strap has a ten-inch drop. Inside the bag, two distinct compartments are divided by a zippered pouch in the middle (within the zippered compartment, there’s also a smaller slip pocket). The two main compartments are ideal for storing a book, electronics, a water bottle, a sweater and other bulky essentials. Although it’s the most expensive bag we highlighted, it’s a well-made investment piece that will last a lifetime.