Skip to Content

13 Best Travel Purses [Stylish And Affordable Options]

Looking for a travel bag? A cute and practical purse perhaps? We’ve rounded up the top options to help you find the best travel purses.

One of the important things that will accompany you on all your travels is your purse. So it’s essential that you find the right one! But this is where it gets tricky… With tons of different options to choose from, the best travel purse can take a while to narrow down.

Your options may be limitless, but it all comes down to the type of traveler you are. Safety always comes first in any type of bag you pick but putting this element aside, there are other things to consider.

If you are a frequent traveler, the weight of the bag plays a big role because you don’t want to be lugging all your belongings in an oversized one.

Other things you may want to look at are the number of pockets, the style, and the affordability.

If you are looking for a new travel bag to take with you on your travels, we’ve narrowed down the best travel purses out there and categorized them by different styles and needs.

The Best Travel Purse

Here’s a breakdown of the best travel purses on the market right now. We’ve broken them into different categories based on the traveler’s needs.

Best Travel Purse: Lightweight

Baggallini Everywhere

bagillini everywhere

Rain or shine, your bad shouldn’t keep you from continuing onward on your journey. The Baggallini Everywhere bag is the perfect travel companion if you are looking for a lightweight option.

The travel purse also has the added advantage of being waterproof. In addition to keeping your phone and other valuables safe, the shoulder bag also comes with an RFID-resistant wallet. This provides an added layer of security and is better than stuffing your wallet into the outer compartments of the bag.

For travelers who have a lot of knick-knacks to take with them on their travels, the Bagallini Everywhere bag comes with many small pockets for your things.

There is a small compartment for your water bottle and umbrella. The bag comes in many different colors.

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

timbuk2

If you are the type of traveler who likes to carry the essentials on your travels, the Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag is just what you need. This stylish, unisex lightweight bag is the perfect accessory to your travel attire. It has a short strap and can be worn as a crossbody bag.

The Timbuk2 bag has a padded flap to secure your belongings along with a Napoleon-style side pocket as well as a compartment for your water bottle. The inside of the bag has an internal organizer that can fit everything from your laptop to your pens and passport.

Just like the previous bag, the outer flap on the Timbuk2 Messenger bag is waterproof, meaning extra protection for your things. The bag comes in a number of different colors and you have three sizes to choose from depending on your needs.

Travelon Anti-Theft Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Bag

A lightweight purse isn’t for everyone when it comes to carry-on options. This lightweight backpack offers both comfort and style for all tastes. Say hello to the Travelon Anti-Theft bag. This is the perfect travel companion on those full-day sightseeing trips and offers just enough space to fit all the essentials.

The Travelon anti-theft shoulder bag has a main locking compartment as well as side pockets to fit smaller items. In addition to this, the bag provides added protection with an RFID blocking card and a slash-resistant body strap.

This means you don’t have to worry so much about the safety of your items on your travels!

This stylish Travelon anti-theft travel purse is the perfect addition to your chic travel attire. You also have many different colors to choose from and it even comes at a very affordable price.

The only downside is the size of the bag. While you can’t fit your laptop in it, you can fit a Kindle.

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS100

Another great lightweight and small bag is the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS250. If you enjoy traveling through Europe, this tiny bag is just what you need to blend right in. In addition to being extremely lightweight, this bag is also a popular anti-theft option.

While this travel purse is smaller than the other ones on this list thus far, it has some great features and packs in all the essentials- your phone, charger, and passport. Some of its theft-protection features include slash-proof fabric, locking zippers, and an RFID-blocking pocket.

This is in addition to the layers of zips that are great for adding extra valuables in hiding spots!

Many tourist-centric cities are known for their high level of theft. The small Pacsafe bag with all its security features is ideal for traveling in these busy cities. It’s water-resistant as well and perfect for those rainy days.

The bag comes in four different colors.

Best Travel Purse: Small

Not all of us have the arms to lug around laptop cases and carpet bags! Here are some delightful small purse options.

Peak Gear Crossbody Bag

Peak Gear Crossbody Bag

The Peak Gear Crossbody Bag is perfect for travelers who like to travel light. This unisex bag comes with an anti-theft design which is one of the most important elements in any travel bag.

The pockets on the inside and the outside come with RFID blocking tags for that added layer of protection. Plus, one of its main features includes a lifetime recovery service tag that allows you to track the bag when misplaced.

This small bag is great for the essentials, your wallet, passport, and charger but is big enough to fit an iPad as well. The straps are adjustable and the outer layer is waterproof as well.

This multi-purpose bag can be used as a day-to-day bag to run errands as well. The bag also comes at an affordable price point.

See Related: Essential Travel Safety Tips for Trips

Leather Crossbody bag

leather bag

A leather bag isn’t the first choice when it comes to the best travel purses but these bags add a certain element of style to any attire.

This leather crossbody bag by Estalon is the perfect travel companion if you are taking just the essentials with you.

Leather bags have the ability to match almost any outfit so you don’t need to be switching bags to match every outfit. This bag comes with a slim strap and features a double zipper.

Nomads use this as a travel purse because of its bigger compartment that can be used for your small iPad, wallet, and passport and the smaller outer zipper can be used for your phone.

There are various colors to choose from but black and brown are the classics. This small but compact bag is all you need for your travels across the globe.

See Related: Best Travel Toiletry Bags

Baggallini Pocket Travel purse

Baggallini Pocket Travel purse

Another compact and practical option is the Baggillini Pocket Travel purse.  The bag comes in a unique, modern shape and features tons of pockets for all your essentials. It is made of nylon material and is great to take with you on the go.

The interior of the bag features a pocket for almost everything. There are five slots for your credit cards as well as an interior zip for miscellaneous items. The best part about the pocket travel purse is that it is machine washable so you can toss it straight into the machine after your travels.

The bag comes with an RFID phone wristlet which can fit your credit cards and ID as well.

It is water-resistant and you have 24 styles and colors to choose from. Baggillini bags are known for their durability so this travel purse purchase is one you won’t regret.

Best Travel Purse: Affordable

Notag Crossbody Bag

notag

If you consider yourself an adventure enthusiast, then you want a bag that won’t get in the way of your travels.

The Notag Crossbody Bag is the perfect carry-on to take with you on hikes or extreme adventures. It’s waterproof as well so your things will be safe and sound.

The bag is made of polyester lining and classic zippers that make it easy to open and close. The exterior of the crossover has a number of small pockets which makes it compartmentalize your things for better access.

The Notag bag is perfect for travel and everyday use. It can be worn as a handbag, a crossover bag, or even a shoulder bag. This cross-functional bag is a must-have for frequent travelers. The best part-its super affordable!

Dora & Liz Convertible Travel Purse

Dora & Liz Convertible Travel Purse

If you are looking for a bag that’s bigger yet affordable, the Dora & Liz Convertible travel purse is a perfect choice.

The bag can either be worn as a tote bag or as a backpack, so depending on your destination, you can opt for either. This shoulder bag comes with an adjustable strap which makes it easier to transition the bag.

The inside of the bag comes with numerous pockets for your things. The card slots are also equipped with RFID tags and are made of anti-theft and anti-theft material.

There is also an exterior locking pocket which is a great place to put all your essential items.

When you’re not traveling, the bag also makes for a great gym or work tote. It comes at a very affordable price and is ideal for both men and women.

See Related: Best Wheeled Garment Bags for Travel

Cluci Backpack Purse

cluci bag

If crossbody bags aren’t your thing, backpack travel purses serve as an excellent alternative. If you are looking for a travel-friendly backpack, the Cluci bag is a great choice. The bag is made of water-resistant PU leather along with metal accessories that add an element of style.

The bag also includes numerous compartments which are great for holding everything from your laptop, books, passport, wallet, and water bottle. It’s super lightweight and easy to carry with you everywhere.

The Cluci backpack can either be carried as a backpack or a single shoulder bag, there is a detachable strap that lets you do both.

Many travelers often prefer backpacks to single-shoulder ones because it helps even out the weight of your luggage. If you are taking the Cluci backpack as a carry-on on your flight, the strap on the back of the bag can be attached to your luggage.

Best Travel Purse: Splurge

Go on! Push the boat out! You deserve, no, need that expensive purse to help you carry your essentials and give you confidence on your travels!

Tumi Alpha 3 Crossbody Bags

Tumi Alpha 3 Crossbody Bags

The Tumi Alpha 3 is a traveler’s favorite because it offers the perfect blend of luxury and practicality.

The crossbody bag is made from a lightweight Nylon material with a high-quality fabric lining. It has a full zipper as well as a side zipper for easy access to your items.

The interior of the bag has pockets for almost everything like your phone, wallet, and makeup and it can even fit a small tablet or iPad.

The Tumi crossbody bags have a detachable strap as well as a detachable key ring that you can monogram. In addition to being totally stylish, this bag is also known for its durability.

This travel purse can be worn for everyday use as well. Although the bag is definitely on the more expensive side, it is definitely worth the price tag.

See Related: Best Vacation Planners & Templates for Your Next Trip

Kate Spade New York Large Tote bag

Kate Spade New York Large Tote bag

If you want your bag to have enough room for all your things, a tote travel purse is a great choice. A reigning favorite among many luxurious travelers is the Kate Spade New York Large Tote bag, known for its durability and style.

The bag is made of leather material and comes with a magnetic snap enclosure for extra protection. The main compartment of the bag is roomy and provides enough space for all your essentials. There is also an inner pocket for smaller items.

The Kate Spade New York shoulder bags also come in different sizes so you can go for a smaller one if you prefer something more compact.

Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Crossbody Bags

Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Crossbody Bags

Another great tote bag option is the Pacsafe Citysafe Cx Convertible Crossbody Bags. Just like the previous one this bag provides lots of room for your items and is incredibly durable.

The Pacsafe tote is also known for its anti-theft quality which is important for any traveler. The bag comes with a number of pockets including a lockable zip, a hidden pocket, and dual pockets.

The shoulder strap of the bag also has Carrysafe technology including RFID protection. This ensures that your personal information such as your ID or passport details does not end up in the wrong hands. The Pacsafe bag also has slash guard wiring which adds an extra layer of protection to the bag.

You can get this bag in three different shades. It’s one of the best travel purses in the market, both in terms of quality and style.

See Related: The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List

Lululemon Festival Travel Bag

Lululemon Festival Travel Bag

The Lululemon Festival Bag is perfect for the summer travel season. This can be considered a travel purse as it is incredibly compact but offers enough room for all your essentials.

It has multiple pockets for smaller things and an adjustable strap for extra comfort. You can even change up the size of the strap to wear the bag as a fanny pack or a crossbody.

Some of the bag’s key features include its water-resistant fabric which makes the bag easy to clean. The wide zipper provides easy access to your things and the overhead flap ensures your items remain safe even if you overstuff the bag.

The small exterior pocket can be used to store your phone or wallet for easy access. The Lululemon Festival Bag is one of the best travel purses but it is great for daily use as well. It doubles as a gym bag as well and can hold up to 50 lbs.

Most travelers will tell you that your travel bag can make or break your travel experience. As one of your most important travel companions, your bag needs to be comfortable yet safe at the same time. Many bags today come with RFID technology which can prevent thieves from getting access to your personal information. So make sure the bag you get is equipped with this.

The material of your bag is equally important, it needs to be lightweight, soft, and waterproof. Finally, the bag needs to have enough room to fit all your items but this varies by the traveler.

We hope this list of the best travel purses categorized by style and affordability can help you find the perfect one!

Best Travel Purse: Stylish

We all know that the right purse can pull a stylish outfit together. Why pack an extra purse when you can use one of these chic travel purses?

Pincnel Backpack Purse

Pincnel Backpack Purse

The Pincnel Backpack Purse is a bag you can wear as a crossbody bag, a shoulder bag, or a backpack.

You can take off the adjustable shoulder strap to quickly switch from a tote to a backpack during the day. The bag has a hidden pocket that keeps your valuables safe from thieves. On top of that, you can use it for longer because it is well-made and feels good.

This stylish purse is made of durable and waterproof nylon and PU leather. Even if you wear it all day, it won’t hurt your back or shoulders.

It has a double zipper, which makes it easy to open and close, but it has a clever, reverse-zippered design, classifying it as one of the anti-theft bags. It has a lot of pockets for things like cell phones, documents, and more. It also has a zippered pocket on the backside, two zippered pockets on the front, and side pockets on the outside.

MyMealivos Weekender Bag

MyMealivos Weekender Bag

This stylish travel purse isn’t too flashy, but it has enough pockets and nooks to stop even the worst over-packer. It can be a carry-on or a shoulder bag. With MyMealivos Weekender Bag, traveling, going on long weekends, carrying on, and going on day trips are all more accessible.

The inside has lots of pockets. The bottom compartment has even more room for the little things you can’t bear to leave behind and even a shoe compartment. Also, you can keep the bag open or closed with the top-mounted frame opening.

In addition to weekend gear, it also has room for additional garments. However, the bag’s greatest asset is its adaptability. Whether you’re flying or driving, this bag is perfect for a fast weekend getaway or as carry-on luggage for a longer trip.

It is handcrafted and made of high-quality cotton lining and each has compartment has a durable zipper pocket

See Related: Warm Winter Backpacking Destinations

Sakroots Large Smartphone Crossbody Purse

Sakroots Large Smartphone Crossbody Purse

With this slim canvas clutch, which can also be used as a stylish wallet, you can carry things without using your hands. This would be ideal while traveling.

This is a must-have accessory because it has zip pockets for your phone and passport and room inside for your cards and other things you need for a night out.

Even though it’s small, the Sakroots necessities clutch is the stylish wristlet you’ve been waiting for if you like to travel light. As a wallet, it has a wrist strap and an adjustable crossbody strap. It also has a snap closure and two zippered pockets to make it easier to use.

The stylish clutch is also made of a strong coated canvas. You can put even more things in them with expandable zipper pockets, like a phone, makeup, earbuds, or small snacks.

This clutch travel purse with adjustable straps is available in four colors: rainbow spirit desert, black flower power, navy floral spirit, and slate floral blossoms.

Bromen Vegan Leather Shoulder Bags

Bromen Vegan Leather Shoulder Bags

The Bromen Vegan Leather Shoulder Bag is a travel purse made with vegan leather accents and a boho-designed adjustable shoulder strap.

It may look small from the outside, but the inside is actually quite big. There are two large pockets on the inside that can hold a lot of things. It could fit long cords, a phone charger, and some other small electrical items in one of the pockets.

This can also be converted as a shoulder bag and has a lot of modern features, like extra-wide top zippers, straps that can be used as a trolley handle, and deep zip pockets inside.

See Related: Best Minimalist Travel Backpacks & Bags for Trips

Final Thoughts: What’s the best travel purse?

The best travel purses require several features to be considered as one. In this article, we have covered different types of travel purse that are durable and a few that also has an anti-theft feature. However, upon looking into each part, it would be a breeze to take the MyMealivos Weekender Bag on a trip.

It is stylish but also spacious, durable, adjustable, and also has a lightweight and ergonomic design. It can be used as a diaper bag, a carry-on, or even a weekend getaway bag.

I love it. I want it. It’s going in my basket. I’m in checkout. Welp. Guess I own one now. I suppose that means I should start making travel plans to test it out…

FAQ

What is the best kind of travel purse?

The best kind among the different travel purses is a fanny pack or a crossbody bag because they are attached to your body. When going to a new unfamiliar place, it is important to have things like straps that won’t get cut, zippers that won’t come undone, and strong fabrics.

There are many anti-theft travel purses, like the one from Pacsafe, that have an anti-slash weave and hidden pockets. Something made of leather or faux is a good choice. It is possible to cut a thick leather strap, but it is much harder than cutting a thin cotton strap.

Ultimately though, it’s whatever works best for you!

What’s the safest type of purse to travel with?

Upon a list of best travel purses, tourists especially would require to have the safest ones, right? Yeah, well I’ve got you. To ensure its contents are safe, Dora & Liz Convertible Travel Purse includes a number of safeguards. It’s made of tough, reinforced nylon that’s both flexible and durable. It’s water-resistant coating also protects the surface from damage caused by exposure to the weather.
You’ll have plenty of places to store all of your personal items in the main sections and additional pockets. This travel purse is perfect for a busy traveler.

For increased security, special fabric panels were included inside key pockets. The main section of this travel purse zips open to reveal RFID-protected card slots and zippers to keep your ID, passport, or credit cards safe, and a tablet sleeve is included. You can keep your phone, keys, and other small items secure in the exterior locking pocket.

Related Resources

Lock In Your Travel Now

Find Cheap Flights
Use Skyscanner to find flight deals. As my personal favorite flight search engine, Skyscanner scours websites and airlines across the globe, leaving no stone unturned to help you find the best deal possible. And if you really want to take your savings to new heights, pair Skyscanner with Going (Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights). With access to exclusive mistake fares delivered straight to your inbox, you'll be packing your bags and jetting off on your next adventure before you know it.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a low cost way to ensure your travel plans go smooth no matter what's thrown at it. Cover yourself against illness, injury and theft, and protect the arrangements you've made with our flexible travel cancellation insurance. My favorite options for travel insurance are:

Book Your Accommodation
In order to capture the widest selection of properties and the best price, use Booking.com as they have the cheapest rates for guesthouses, hotels, luxury condos, B&Bs and so much more.

Want More Destination Ideas Direct to Your Inbox?
Be sure to join the ViaTravelers Newsletter for expert tips, tricks and inspiration for your next travel journey!

Discover the Best Travel Tools
Be sure to visit our page on our favorite travel resources to learn how you too can visit over 10 countries in year.