body pouch for travel

The Best Crossbody Bags for Easy Travel

Keep your belongings safe and accessible while traveling with these lightweight, stylish purses.

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When it comes to carrying a purse while traveling, a crossbody bag is your best bet to stay hands free while keeping your belongings secure on your body. But not all crossbody travel bags are the same, and it's important to consider what matters most to you, whether that's style, accessibility, safety, spaciousness, comfort or other factors.

The good news is that we've rounded up the best options for every style preference, budget and travel need.

Our top picks

Best Overall Crossbody Travel Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag large 2l.

Best Value Crossbody Travel Bag

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

Best Lightweight Crossbody Travel Bag

Vera bradley featherweight crossbody purse.

Best Sling Crossbody Travel Bag

Baggallini central park sling crossbody.

Best Leather Crossbody Travel Bag

Leatherology meadow large satchel.

Best Anti-Theft Crossbody Travel Bag

Travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Best Waterproof Crossbody Travel Bag

Nite ize runoff waterproof hip pack.

Best Modular Crossbody Travel Bag

Athleta revive modular crossbody bag.

Best Crossbody Travel Bag With Bottle Holder

Beis the sport sling.

Best Spacious Crossbody Travel Bag

Lululemon all night festival bag 5l.

You can learn more about how we chose these styles and what to consider as you shop at the end of this article, but first, here's everything you need to know about the best crossbody bags for travel.

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This fan-favorite belt bag has a loyal following of both men and women (including several GH staffers!) thanks to its comfortable fit, lightweight materials and spacious interior — all for a reasonable price. The nylon fabric is water-resistant, while the strap is fully adjustable so you can get a close fit around your torso (or waist if you prefer to wear it as a fanny pack).

Just note that unlike some crossbody bags that sit at the hip, this one lies flat against your torso, so it's not quite as easy to access the contents. Though its smaller 1L version is more popular, we think this larger size is great for travel because it can hold more while you're on the go.

Dimensions: 8.3" x 2.2" x 5.7" | Colors: Over 15 options

Despite its low cost, this bag wowed our experts and consumer testers with its comfort, style and spaciousness. In fact, it can even hold a water bottle along with a phone, wallet, keys and other essentials — all with room to spare.

One tester told us, "I love how lightweight it is and how much I can fit inside it!" Beyond that, the curved shape helps it feel comfortable at your side, even when you're walking for miles. Though its materials aren't quite as luxe as pricier bags, it still looks sleek and neutral enough to wear with a variety of outfits.

Dimensions: 11" x 6.7" x 3.9" | Colors: 7 options

Though the style looks and feels substantial, it's s urprisingly lightweight thanks to its performance fabrics that also happen to be water-repellent. Each bag features a quilted design and is easily packable so it doesn't take up valuable space in your suitcase.

The bag is on the larger size for a crossbody with one big main compartment, plus a small zippered pocket in the front so you can quickly find your essentials. It's also worth noting that the adjustable strap is longer than some other crossbodies, meaning it can also be carried as a low-hanging shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 12" x 122" x 4" | Colors: 7 options

Sling bags are ideal for anyone who wants the functionality of a backpack with the wearability of a crossbody bag. This one in particular is made with smart travel features, including RFID protection and an extra strap to stop pickpocketing.

It also has plenty of compartments, including ones on the back (facing your body) and an easily accessible pocket in the front. One GH staffer that swears by this bag saying, "It's super comfortable and feels secure to wear while in big cities or crowded areas."

Dimensions: 7" x 12" x 2.5" | Colors: 10 options

For those who prefer leather bags over ones with synthetic performance fabrics, this fashion-forward pick is great for a more elevated luxury look, especially when you're dressed to impress on vacation.

While most stylish leather crossbodies have sky-high designer price tags, this one is on the more affordable end. Worn by celebrities like Serena Williams and Kristen Bell, it's not as lightweight as other travel crossbodies, but our testers say it's not too heavy, either. It has two zippered pockets, each with organizational compartments inside. It's also available in smaller sizes at lower costs.

Dimensions: 10.25" x 7.25" x 4" | Colors: 9 options

If safety is a big concern for your trip, consider a bag that has smart features to keep your belongings protected. This one in particular is equipped with five standout anti-theft features , including zippers that clip closed to prevent pickpocketing, slash-resistant fabric, slash-resistant straps, RFID-blocking pockets and a strap clip that lets you secure it to a chair when you're dining.

Travelon makes a variety of anti-theft crossbody bags , but this one is Amazon's Choice with nearly 10,000 reviews and an average 4.6-star rating. It has a slim design with interior pockets to carry essentials like your passport, phone and wallet, though it doesn't hold quite as much as other styles.

Dimensions: 8.5" x 8.5" x 2" | Colors: 15 options

If you'll be traveling in wet conditions — including going underwater — consider a waterproof pouch that you can wear as a crossbody. This one even has a waterproof zipper and is designed to keep your contents dry ; you can even carry your phone and money into a pool while wearing it! A clear front screen allows you to use a touch-screen phone without taking it out. Plus, the crossbody strap can adjust to be worn as as a belt bag.

Dimensions: 8.58" x 4.92" x 1.77" | Colors: 2 options

If you prefer a smaller crossbody but worry that it's not big enough, consider this unique style from Athleta that has add-on compartments in the strap.

The main pouch is a foam-like material with a water-repellent finish and it lies flat against the body. The strap contains pouches designed to hold sunglasses and AirPods. As an added bonus, the strap is removable and can be attached onto other bags, while the pouch can be used as an organizer inside larger purses.

Dimensions: Not listed | Colors: 2 options

For those that always carry around a water bottle, this sporty sling bag has a hidden bottle pouch that you can tuck away whenever you don't need it.

Besides its two zippered compartments, it also has a microfiber-lined pocket in the front for your cell phone or sunglasses. Plus, there's a small zippered compartment in the back in case you need your phone or other essentials kept safe. It's not super spacious, but it has card organizers inside a zippered pocket in case you just want to bring a credit card and ID without a full wallet.

Dimensions: 6.7" x 8.2" x 2.7" | Colors: 3 options

Like a modern-day messenger, this style has a wide opening so you can easily sift through everything you packed inside. Once it's zippered shut, the top folds over and secures with a magnet. (Just note that Lululemon warns the magnet can interfere with certain electronic devices and bank cards.)

One GH staffer said she uses it every day and noted that the flap "feels secure while commuting or traveling and allows for a quick retrieval for items inside." Like other Lululemon bags , it has a lightweight and water-resistant performance fabric.

Dimensions: 7.9" x 3.9" x 8.3" | Colors: 3 options

Dange Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag (Extra Small)

Available in five sizes, this style's largest options make perfect weekender bags while the smaller ones are more ideal as crossbody purses. This extra-small size still has a five-liter capacity, making it spacious enough to carry on-the-go essentials, even holding a small tablet or notebook.

We especially love this one's organizational features: inside the main zippered compartment are three pockets and a key leash, while the outside has a phone sleeve for easy access (though keep in mind: It's not zippered, so it's less secure). We also love its soft neoprene fabric and wide straps to support a heavier load.

Dimensions: 9" x 4.75" x 6.25" | Colors: 9 options

MZ Wallace Crossbody Belt Bag

When fashion is the first and foremost priority, consider a splurge-worthy style like this quilted belt bag. Despite its large size, it's still fairly lightweight thanks to its nylon material. It's also functional for travel with two zippered compartments and built-in pockets for organization.

We love its versatility thanks to its three detachable straps: Two wide ones for your waist or across the body and one chain strap to dress it up. Online reviewers call it "perfect for international travel," with one saying she found it especially useful on a trip to London and Paris.

Dimensions: 10" x 8.5" x 2" | Colors: 4 options

Bandolier Crossbody Bag

For a simple, chic and timeless style, this small crossbody is described as a "sleek look with a ton of functionality packed in" by one GH analyst who personally uses it. For starters, the adjustable strap can be swapped for other straps from the brand , plus the bag can expand a bit to pack in more when you need it. The flap secures with a magnet (there's no zipper) and it's made with real pebbled leather for an elegant look that can be dressed up.

Dimensions: 8" x 6" x 3" | Colors: 3 options

Madewell The Medium Transport Tote

Combining the capacity of a tote with the convenient strap of a crossbody, Madewell's bag is a tester favorite thanks to its supple leather and spacious interior.

A GH analyst that carries this bag while traveling said it's especially useful if you're going to be shopping so you don't have to carry around extra bags as you explore new cities. It's also ideal if you need to carry a bulky load, like an umbrella, water bottle and layers of clothing, but be aware that there's no zippered closure for protection.

Dimensions: 12.25" x 11" x 5.5" | Colors: 2 options

Coach Willow Bucket Bag

If you're willing to invest in a well-made crossbody, this luxury bag from Coach looks stylish and uses high-end construction. One GH staffer that recommended this style said, "I own a variety of Coach bags and they continue to stay in great condition," adding that the Coach Outlet is a great option for more affordable versions.

She likes this bag in particular because of how roomy it is, calling it "just the right size." Just note that it has multiple sections, some of which are unzippered, making contents less secure while traveling.

Dimensions: 9.25" x 8.75" x 4.25" | Color: Black

How we chose the best crossbody travel bags

The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab are passionate about finding the best products at the crossroads of fashion and function, constantly testing to find apparel and accessories that perform well, feel (and look) great and last for years to come.

To find the best crossbody bags for travel, we considered our staff's personal favorites from the dozens of styles that we've tested in our Lab and personally tried out in real life. We also asked other Good Housekeeping editors and analysts to weigh in with their recommendations, plus we performed market research using our product expertise to find new and popular styles from brands we know and love.

How to shop for travel-friendly crossbody bags

The one thing all crossbody bags have in common is that they're worn across your body. Other than that, here's what to consider when choosing the best crossbody bag for your next getaway:

• Size: Smaller dimensions typically mean the bag is more totable, but will hold less. Alternatively, larger bags may fit more inside but can be cumbersome to wear, depending on your type of travel. Besides the dimensions, also consider the capacity: 1-2 liters will be smaller, while 5 liters will be more spacious yet still comfortable to wear.
• Compartments and pockets : Some crossbody bags have one main compartment, while others have several compartments to help you stay organized. Also check for pockets inside the compartments, including pouches to hold your phone, keys and cards for easy access.
• Closures: Most crossbody bags for travel have zippers to keep everything safe and secure inside. However, some have magnet closures and others have no closures at all. Consider how secure you need your belongings to be and whether you'll be at risk for things falling out or being pickpocketed.
• Materials: Many styles are made of synthetic performance fabrics (like nylon and polyester) because they're lightweight and water-resistant. If you prefer a more luxurious bag, opt for leather (or even faux leather). Also keep in mind that bags with metal hardware will be heavier to carry around.
• Adjustability: To ensure your crossbody bag will fit comfortably around your torso, check for an adjustable strap so you can find the right fit. Some crossbody bags are also convertible, meaning you can change the straps or change how you wear them on your body.
• Packability: If you'll be packing your crossbody bag in your suitcase, consider opting for a lighter and thinner style instead of one that's more structured. If you do prefer a structured bag for style, consider wearing while en route to your destination or filling it with smaller items (like socks and underwear) in the suitcase so you don't waste valuable packing space.
• Safety features: Certain trips require you to pay closer attention to the risk of people that prey on tourists. In these cases, look for anti-theft features like secure zippers, straps that can attach onto your seat and RFID-blocking technology.
• Appearance: Last, but certainly not least, it's okay to choose a travel bag based on how it looks without sacrificing other important features. Consider what you'll be doing and wearing throughout your trip. Some of our recommendations are especially good at transitioning from daytime exploring to nighttime dining while matching a wide range of outfits.

Why you can trust Good Housekeeping

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of the Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has been reviewing travel bags for over 10 years. Lexie also oversees the annual Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards and regularly reports on categories like the best luggage and the best backpacks . She has personally used many of the crossbody bags featured in this article.

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

759 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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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.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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

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.

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.

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.

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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21 Crossbody Bags You’ll Take Everywhere

By Kristi Kellogg and Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Crossbody bags are an undeniable staple for frequent travelers. They’re supremely useful, with room for essentials like your passport , credit cards, cell phone, and AirPods, and yet still lightweight enough to carry around all day. Plus, with a crossbody bag, your hands are free—which means you can easily snap a photo or look up directions while you’re on the go. From tiny camera and shoulder bags to versatile totes with removable crossbody straps, here are 21 of the best crossbody bags for travelers to bring on their next trip. 

Shop the best crossbody bags:

• Best everyday bag: Madewell The Sydney crossbody bag
• Best leather bag: Cuyana Mini Double Loop bag
• Best water-resistant bag: Fjällräven High Coast water-resistant crossbody bag  
• Best shoulder bag: Coach Polished Pebble leather crossbody  
• Best saddle bag: Cuyana Double Moon Saddle bag
• Best budget bag: Madewell Small Transport crossbody
• Best designer bag: Yves Saint Laurent Lou Mini Matelassé leather camera bag
• Best beach bag: Paravel Small Cabana Tote
• Best mini bag: Béis The ID crossbody bag  
• Best slouchy bag: Clare V. Moyen messenger bag
• Best slim bag: Tory Burch Mercer Pebbled zip crossbody bag
• Best for active days: Lululemon 2L crossbody camera bag   
• Best crush-proof bag: Paravel crossbody bag
• Best day-to-night bag: Kate Spade Knott small crossbody bag  
• Best sustainable bag: Rothy's The Casual Crossbody  
• Best splurge: Mansur Gavriel Classic crossbody  
• Best for hiking: Calpak water bottle holder
• Best for day trips: Dagne Dover Micah neoprene crossbody
• Best for parents: MZ Wallace Metro crossbody bag
• Best for outdoor adventures: Herschel Supply Co. Heritage crossbody bag
• Best clear bag: Uspeclare clear crossbody bag  

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Megan Spurrell.  

Best everyday bag

Madewell sells some of our favorite crossbody bags—they're well-priced, practical, and chic. This bestseller is made of smooth luxe leather and features both a top handle and a removable crossbody strap. Everyday essentials like your wallet, sunglasses, and keys will stay safe thanks to its magnetic closure. This is that perfect wear-everywhere-with-everything bag you'll reach for time and time again. 

Best leather bag

Cuyana delivers an elevated crossbody that's practical for daily use with the Mini Double Loop bag. The structured piece has an adjustable strap, which you can even monogram in tiny gold lettering, as well as a magnetic flap closure and interior slip pocket. The Italian leather crossbody is handmade by artisans in Turkey. Shop it in core colors black, ecru, cappuccino, dark olive, or caramel (pictured).

Best water-resistant bag

Made of lightweight, water-resistant fabric, this sporty crossbody from Fjällräven is a smart choice for travelers no matter what's on the agenda. It features two interior mesh pockets, a zippered exterior compartment, and a convenient top carry handle. Plus, at $50 it's one of the most affordable options on our list. Choose from black, light blue, navy, or green. 

Best budget-friendly bag

The smaller but equally classic version of Madewell's signature Transport tote is the ideal bag to wear over your shoulder for a day of sightseeing. It goes with every outfit, and it's a bag that we've recommended over and over again for its timeless look and practicality. Another major plus: For how well this lasts, it's at a great price point—delivering the longevity of a high-end bag without the hefty price tag. 

Best shoulder bag

Coach stepped up its game the last few years with new sleek designs on its classic silhouettes. One popular favorite is its pebbled leather shoulder bag that doubles as a crossbody. Wear it as a crossbody during the day for a casual yet elevated look or take the adjustable strap off and you have an elegant shoulder bag for a dinner date. Versatile bags like this are perfect for quick trips when you're only packing one purse to wear with every outfit.

Best saddle bag

A newer style from Cuyana is its Double Moon saddle bag. Made of Italian leather, this is an ideal bag for vacation: smart, stylish, and spacious enough to store everything you need while exploring a new city center. In addition to its two main compartments, it also features a back slip pocket and a magnetic closure. This neutral color will match just about everything you pack. 

Best designer bag

Some occasions call for something a little more special than your everyday crossbody—and YSL's take on the camera bag is an elegant affair. It's crafted with calfskin in a matelassé chevron pattern, and has a wide open interior with an interior side pocket. The designer bag is made in Italy and is available in eight shades.

Best for the beach

If you're headed on a vacation—especially a beach vacation —this Paravel tote is a must-pack. It transforms into a crossbody with the cabana strap add-on, and is made out of heavy-duty, water-resistant canvas; plus, it has a vegan leather base and accents, and zip and slip pockets throughout. The bag is customizable, too: It comes in two sizes, four colors, and can be monogrammed. 

Shop more of our favorite travel tote bags here .

Best slouchy bag

Soft, slouchy, and spacious, this is another one of our go-to's. Versatility is always a consideration when you're packing, so we love that this works as a cute crossbody or a shoulder bag (there's a strap option for each). The chambray-lined interior of the bag has no inner compartments but plenty of open space. 

Best slim bag

This simple, cream-colored crossbody from Tory Burch is a great bag for day or night. Its slim yet surprisingly spacious, making it a practical bag to pack without taking up a ton of space. It's also available in black, lavender, brown, and a gray-beige shade. 

Best for active days

If you love the functionality and effortlessly cool vibe of Lululemon's Everywhere belt bag , you'll equally adore its crossbody camera bag. It's ultra lightweight and made of water-repellent fabric. There's two separate zippered compartments to keep items organized and it's available in a variety of colors like brown, wine berry, black, gray, white, and more. 

Best crush-proof bag

This crush-proof canister-style crossbody is meant to protect your essentials—like a favorite pair of sunglasses, a tube of hand sanitizer, or a fragile film camera you love to travel with—in a lightweight, streamlined design. The water-resistant interior will also keep everything dry, just in case. What we love most, though, is the chic, retro, monogrammable style—nobody will ever believe it's practical, too. 

Best day-to-night bag

Versatility is key in a good crossbody bag. Whether you're museum hopping in New York City or grabbing gelato in Florence , this leather bag from Kate Spade has you covered. It's easy to dress up or down and fits just the right amount of must-haves without being too bulky or heavy to tote around all day or night long. Grab it in classic black or white and it will match everything.

Best sustainable bag

This everyday crossbody has been tested to hold up to 50 pounds—and while you're unlikely to ever fill it with that much weight, it's a comfort to know the strap is durable enough to fit all of your essentials plus a little extra. The bag features a zipper closure to keep your items secure and interior slip pockets for cards or your phone. What we love most: As with everything Rothy's, it's sustainably made and machine washable. 

Best splurge

If you're willing to splurge on a well-made bag you'll have for years to come, opt for this classic crossbody from Mansur Gavriel. Made of premium Saffiano leather, it features a subtle texture that offers both timeless style and durability. This beauty will fit right in among your capsule wardrobe and can be worn year-round. 

Best for hiking

Whether you're hiking , biking, or heading out for a game of pickleball, this convenient and compact water bottle holder saves you the hassle of lugging around a heavy, full-size bag. My favorite feature is the insulated and water-resistant interior, but it also comes with multiple pockets, a detachable shoulder strap, and a drawstring closure—a nice touch when you're on the move. It's available in more than a dozen colors and fun patterns.

Best for day trips

Dagne Dover's 100 percent vegan neoprene crossbody is ultra lightweight and soft—a crucial detail for travelers carrying this bag around all day. It's the perfect blend of sporty and stylish; wear it to the airport, on a hike, or on a city walking tour. There are several interior pockets to keep travel essentials organized and it's just the right size for day trips. 

Best for parents

MZ Wallace designs some of our top editor-recommended sling bags and duffels . We equally love this lightweight, diamond-quilted crossbody bag that's ideal for busy parents or travelers on the move who need something reliable. There's an exterior zippered pocket for easy access to items like your phone or wallet, and the bag is water-resistant and washable.

Best for outdoor adventures

Toss your bug spray, sunscreen, or small water filter in this hands-free option that is perfect for outdoorsy travelers. It fits more than you think—and it features a mesh storage sleeve, internal pocket with a key clip, and soft adjustable strap. 

Best clear bag

In need of a cute stadium-approved bag for an upcoming concert or sports game? Here's one you'll actually want to rewear. It's clear, compact, and under $10 on Amazon. 

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The 10 Best Travel Pouches So Everything Has Its Proper Place

Stay organized inside even in the roomiest bag with these travel pouches to stash away or carry separately.

Rena Behar is a freelance journalist and editor focusing on tech, travel, and gender. She has contributed to Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and more.

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Cotopaxi / Away

You’ve likely been preached the good word of the packing cube, but what about all those smaller items that are simply rolling around in your carry-on? Enter: the travel pouch. 

The best travel pouches will turn your backpack, purse, or any bag at all into a neatly organized Bento-like system, with a place for everything from AirPods to lip balm. Store your chargers and battery packs, small toiletries, first-aid materials, or some combination of it all. (My own carry-on bag has at least three pouches in it at any given moment, containing snacks, tech, and personal care items, respectively.)

Not only does this keep you organized, it can also make it easier to move your things between bags — you won’t have to worry about leaving any of your daily makeup behind if you can simply move the entire kit. These are our picks for the best travel pouches.

Best Overall

Mark & graham fillmore vegan diamond travel pouch.

Mark & Graham

Why We Love It: This sleek design has a diagonal zipper for maximum storage ability and an entire coordinating pouch ecosystem to build with it.

What to Consider: It’s a little on the chunky side, but soft sides should make it easy to pack. 

The best pouches not only keep you organized, but are attractive in themselves and this smooth vegan leather design from Mark & Graham will look good in or out of your luggage. Our favorite feature is its unusual diamond-style zipper that allows you to open the bag nearly flat, maximizing your storage potential whether it’s toiletries or tech inside. You can choose from four neutral hues, all of which are water- and sun-resistant, though the lighter colors may show wear quicker. 

Of course, you can’t stop with just one pouch. This isn’t the only excellent item in Mark & Graham’s travel pouch collection, and its companion selection helped push it ahead of the competition. There’s a smaller, more traditionally structured vegan leather Fillmore , as well as a bigger alternative with an extra jewelry layer in the Dual Travel Organizer . Want a flatter style? Go for the Everyday Italian Leather Pouch . You can construct an entire matching system for an organizational dream.

The Details: Vegan leather | 3.5 x 8.5 x 3.5 inches

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Leather

Cuyana small zipper pouch.

Why We Love It: This elegant pouch gets straight to the point, and can even be carried as a clutch.

What to Consider: It’s on the longer side so make sure to measure your bag first.

Cuyana’s simple, high-quality goods are some of our favorite accessories, and this leather pouch is no exception. Inside the gold zipper top, you’ll find a smooth pouch with a side slip pocket to keep your cards separate for easy access. There’s plenty of storage for items like a phone, battery pack, and small wallet, plus makeup. The bag’s finish is nice enough to carry it solo as a clutch when you’re traveling light, and the leather is certified by the Leather Working Group to be tanned responsibly. The pouch comes in five neutral colors and additional limited-edition hues, so it can match your purse or stand out in the crowd.There’s also a mini version available if you want something a little smaller, or to build a set.

The Details: Leather | 7 x 9.8 x 2 inches | 6.3 ounces

Caraa Pool Pouches

Why We Love It: These four pouches provide waterproof performance in a stylish package.

What to Consider: While it’s easy for you to see what’s stashed inside, it’s easy for everyone else to as well.

Why get just one clear travel pouch when you can get four? Caraa’s water-resistant Pool Pouches come in a multi-size set, with options big enough for your phone, tablet, Kindle, or just your cash and keys. The chic clear design has white vegan leather borders that add that touch of seaside style. Plus, the fact that they’re waterproof means the contents will be safe from any in-bag leaks (or vice-versa) and you can easily use one to bring your essentials down to the beach. Each pouch has a ring on the end to clip into the included carabiner, or for you to attach it separately to your pool bag (or bring along the whole set). 

The Details: Waterproof TPU | 13 x 11 inches; 12 x 10 inches; 7 x 9 inches; 4 x 8 inches | 0.9 pounds (total)

Best Fabric

Topo designs accessory bags.

Why We Love It: These simple pouches get the job done with no fuss and extra durability.

What to Consider: Aesthetically, they’re more on the outdoorsy side.

If you’re looking for a super-flexible travel pouch, a canvas style may be your best bet. Our favorite fabric pouch from Topo is made from an abrasion-resistant nylon so you can just throw it in your bag and go without babying it, plus heavy-duty YKK zippers keep things secure. There are three sizes available: the micro, which Topo recommends for cards, cash, and earbuds; the small for pens and cables; and the medium for power blocks, small notebooks, and larger cords. You can also choose from several solid and colorblocked styles based on your tastes from khaki/forest to all black.

The Details: 1000D nylon | 4.75 x 3.25 inches (micro); 8.5 x 5.5 inches (small); 9.5 x 7.5 inches (medium)

Travelon Set of 4 Mesh Pouches

Why We Love It: Travelon applies their quality build to in-bag organizing, with multiple sizes and colors.

What to Consider: They’re only sold in a set, but they’re inexpensive enough that it’s not a huge concern.

Travelon makes some of our favorite anti-theft travel bags , so it makes sense they’d be great at organizing what’s inside of those bags, too. While this set doesn’t have the brand’s anti-theft features, the four mesh pouches do include sizes for everything from your cables to travel razors to a change of clothes. We prefer the four-piece set for added versatility and a choice between blue or gray pouches but, if you only want three pouches in a brighter color that makes the contents slightly harder to see, Travelon also offers a multicolored stripe option .

The Details: Polyester ripstop and mesh | 6 x 5.75 inches; 7.75 x 6.55 inches; 10 x 8.5 inches; 12 x 8.75 inches | 0.8 pounds (total)

Best Wearable

Cole haan essential pouch crossbody bag.

Why We Love It: This stylishly structured pouch can be worn as a wristlet or crossbody with a removable strap.

What to Consider: The leather may get damaged if you’re regularly taking it in and out of other crowded bags.

If you want your travel pouch to do double duty as a purse, this model from Cole Haan is the best option. Wear it as a wristlet or add the detachable gold chain link strap to wear it as a crossbody with a 22-inch drop. Inside the zip-top opening, you’ll find a lined cavity with a smaller open side pocket, with plenty of space for your phone, cards, keys, and other small items. The black and gold color options are both stylish and neutral enough to match most travel wardrobes, while the woven texture of the leather adds some extra visual interest. 

The Details: Leather | 8.5 x 1.5 x 5 inches

Best for Tech

Bellroy tech kit.

Why We Love It: This organizer has a spot for everything, plus a slew of colors and smart design touches.

What to Consider: It’s on the larger side.

The more tech you’ve got, the more cables and accessories you likely have cluttering up your bag. Tuck them all smoothly away inside this sleek Bellroy case, which opens up fully flat for you to organize however you desire, with space for an Apple Magic Mouse, stylus, external hard drive, laptop power brick, SD cards, and more. It has a magnetic slip pocket, stretch mesh pockets, and a floating wall with an elastic cable organizer so you can tuck everything just so. The recycled fabric is also water-resistant, so any leaks in your bag won’t lead to a crisis either. You get nine colors to choose from, including leather-free options.

Too large for you? Size down to the Compact version . We also love Bellroy’s Desk Caddy , which sits upright on your desk and zips open to display its contents so you can easily set it up on whatever cafe table or coworking space is serving as your desk and still have all your gear within easy reach.

The Details: Fabric or fabric and leather | 5.1 x 9.1 x 2.8 inches

Best for Toiletries

Sea to summit tpu clear zip pouch.

Why We Love It: Stop using up your Ziploc bags and decant your toiletries into this solidly leak-proof pouch that comes with six bottles.

What to Consider: The short height may be challenging if you’re putting toiletries in their original containers.

If your main reason to buy a pouch is for toiletries, this clear Sea to Summit clear bag measures 1 quart in size and already comes with three 3.3-ounce and three 1.6-ounce bottles to stay under the required TSA limits. Both the bottles and the zipper are leak-resistant and the body is made of TPU film with welded construction, so spills won’t be an issue either (and given that Sea to Summit also makes some of our favorite dry bags , we think they’ve got their liquid analysis covered). Plus, you can remove the bottles and use this as a single waterproof bag instead as needed.

The Details: TPU | 4 x 8 x 2 inches | 0.9 ounces

Best Organization

Peak design wash pouch.

Peak Design

Why We Love It: This eco-friendly design has a multitude of slots and can hold an impressive amount.

What to Consider: It can be challenging to clean in the event of spills, but the interior pockets have pull-out linings.

We named Peak Design’s Wash Pouch our favorite for best organization in our toiletry kit tests , and were impressed by how much it could hold in its plentiful pockets. Nothing fell out of place even when we flipped it and shook it. It can sit upright on its own, or hang from its aluminum hook. There are a slew of its own organizational features, including five interior slide pockets, two large storage spaces, a separate, magnetically sealed toothbrush pocket, and interior and exterior zip pockets. Even better, it’s also Fair Trade Certified and carbon neutral, and the shell is made from recycled fabric.

The Details: DWR-treated nylon | 10.2 x 6 x 4.4 inches | 8.7 ounces

Best for Food

Stasher reusable silicone bag.

Why We Love It: These silicone bags stay sealed tight and can be used in so many ways, including in the oven.

What to Consider: The opening is on the narrower side if you’re hoping to really load it up (the bowl style may be better if that’s what you need).

But how, you ask, am I going to organize my snacks? With our pick for best pouch for food, of course. Stasher’s food-grade silicone bags are designed to replace Ziploc baggies, with a leak-free seal to keep the contents safe from bag grit (or your bag safe from potato chip dust). The line comes in six sizes from pocket-sized to half-gallon , along with additional stand-up models and bowls, but our favorite for starting out is the versatile sandwich size. These pouches can be used in the microwave, on the stovetop, in the freezer, and even in the oven, so they make a convenient extra kitchen accessory once you’ve arrived at your destination; just throw them in the dishwasher once you’re back home again. There are even 40 colors to choose from, so you can color-code everyone’s separate snack pouches, or just make sure they match your backpack.

The Details: Food-grade platinum silicone | 7.5 x 7 x 1 inches (sandwich) | 2.7 ounces

Tips for Buying a Travel Pouch

Decide what you will put in your travel pouch .

Your planned contents will determine how large a travel pouch you should purchase, as well as the materials. If you’re carrying larger things, naturally, you need a larger pouch. If you’re carrying tech, you’ll want to look for waterproof materials or a DWR coating to keep everything dry, while fragile contents may require a thicker or padded construction to keep them safe.

Consider its uses for the entire journey

Much like kitchen gadgets, the best travel gear has multiple uses. Will your travel pouch just live inside your backpack as an organizational tool, or is it going to do double duty as a replacement for a wallet or clutch? Do you want to be able to wear it through the airport when you need easy access to your documents? A travel pouch that’s going to just live inside a large bag or hotel safe doesn’t need to look as nice or have as many features as one that’s coming out and about with you.

Pick a material based on your intended use

As we said above, think about how you’re going to use your pouch to make sure you’re choosing the right one. If it’s an organizational tool, mesh can be good since it allows you to easily see the pouch’s contents. If you’re bringing it to a pool or traveling with spill-prone companions, look for water resistance; if you want to carry it as a small purse or wallet, you may want a more stylish finish, like leather.

The best travel pouches may be some of the most useful things you can carry. Rather than having to dig through a cavernous tote bag to find a mess of small things jingling around together at the bottom, they keep your items consolidated and easy to grab so you can find your spare battery pack before your phone dies. If you’re putting your carry-on in an overhead bin, a good pouch can keep anything you want accessible at seat level, without your things scattering around your seatback pocket. Or, if you’re switching bags, having the essentials in one small pouch will make for an easier transfer and lower your risk of leaving something behind.

Personally, I carry a tiny pouch containing my headphones, Band-aids, a tinted lip balm, emergency tampon, and some OTC meds in my everyday purse. When I’m going on the road, the pouch moves into my travel bag, and I know that I’ve got enough items on me to at least buy the time to get to a drugstore with minimal issue.

We’re hard-pressed to imagine a travel pouch you can’t take on a plane. If it’s tucked inside a larger bag, you shouldn’t have any problems (though if you’re carrying anything with a battery, it should go in the cabin, rather than your checked luggage). However, if you’re carrying your pouch as its own separate item, it may count as your personal item, so if you’re flying an airline that’s especially strict and are otherwise at the bag limit already (think carry-on and backpack, plus crossbody pouch), it may be safer to stash this inside one of the larger bags.

Consideration number one is always following the manufacturer’s instructions. You likely won’t need to wash it that often, depending on material and how you use it, but can spot-clean any spills or stains you pick up on the road. You should also make sure not to overpack it, which will put strain on the seams and zippers that can possibly lead to an untimely demise.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Rena Behar has been covering travel gear and other consumer products since 2014 and is a long-time devotee of the travel pouch lifestyle. To find the best travel pouches, she trawled through multiple gear tests, roundups, and product catalogs.

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13 Best Under Clothing Travel Pouches

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Under Clothing Travel…

Wherever you go, safety should always be your number one priority. You’d want all your belongings to remain safe from any threat. It’s not a secret that most tourist hotspots in the world are also notorious for their crime and scammers. With this in mind, people naturally gravitate towards the safest options available to carry all their items. And an under clothing travel pouch is one of the best options you can find.

Below we handpicked the 13 best under clothes travel pouch for any avid travelers. They are designed not just for practicality, but also for safety. You can also check out our lists of the best travel pouches and the best travel pouches for women for more options. Before getting the right travel pouch for you, learn how to choose the best ones first!

How to Choose the Best Under Clothing Travel Pouches

With so many available choices online—most of them even sporting the very same model—it can be difficult to decide on which one is the best. While tastes can be a subjective matter, a good under clothing travel pouch should at least cover these three basic features.

Sufficient compartments and size

Most of the under clothes travel pouch you can find today come in a compact size. Apart from its usability purposes, this pushes you to only bring your most essential traveling items. Those items include your ID/passport, cards, and some cash. Thankfully, most of the under clothes travel pouches are designed to hold those items just fine.

This feature is the one that can really narrow down your choices to the best ones. Companies can always get it right when it comes to the size and compartments, but when it comes to comfort, not everyone makes the cut. Since you’re going to shop online and can’t try it properly, reading the reviews of its past users can be very helpful. If you have no time for that, we’re here to help you!

Speaking of comfortability, these noise-canceling headphones are the game changers for your flight experience. Get them for your babies too!

Nobody likes to buy a product only to have it worn out in a short period. This is when durability becomes an important quality you should look for in your under clothes travel pouch. Many factors can determine a product’s durability but its material and build are the biggest contributors. Pay attention to the stitching, zipper, and its overall build. When you get a flimsy product, find out whether you can get a replacement to avoid unnecessary hassles in the future. Especially if you’re spending a fair amount of money on it; you deserve the best!

Yoyi RFID Undercover Bra Wallet

Just for 10 USD, you can get a high-quality product that is Yoyi RFID Undercover Bra Wallet . People are so happy with their purchase since this under clothing travel pouch provides everything that they need. It’s safe, secure, and most importantly it’s very comfortable to be worn against the skin.

Another plus point to this bra wallet is thanks to its compartments. It holds your traveling essentials effortlessly without getting too bulky although it’s definitely too small for a passport. Regardless, you can put your ID, credit card, and the bulk of cash inside this wallet with no problems. In addition to all those, the pouch is also equipped with RFID blockers—a great feature to give you more peace of mind as you travel.

What We Love

Tiny but mighty!

• Equipped with RFID blockers
• Holds a lot
• Comfortable against the skin
• Very well-made
• Not enough depth
• Way too small to fit a passport

Travel Blue Secret Sliding Wallet (CU)

The Travel Blue Secret Sliding Wallet is simply a great idea in concept—and so much more in its execution. First look at this under clothing travel pouch may give you hesitation as the picture doesn’t do justice to the product. It’s very far from flimsy and some customers consistently repeat their orders with this product in the past 12 years. For that reason alone, it easily makes a great travel pouch under clothes.

The pouch is designed with a belt-loop for more efficient and safer access. You’ll easily notice if someone tries to pick your pocket as it happens, thanks to the belt-loop. The multiple compartments inside are more than enough and handy to put all your traveling essentials. Unfortunately, one major downside of this pouch is that it doesn’t fit a regular passport which can be a deal-breaker for most travelers. But overall, if you’re planning a short trip and want to keep things neat and simple, this should be one of your best choices.

Low profile, highly functional, and crazy durable!

• Very sturdy
• Equipped with a belt-loop
• Comfortable
• Multiple compartments
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Doesn’t fit a passport

Skemix Under Clothes Travel Pouch (CU)

This hidden travel pouch is great to keep some extra cash while you’re traveling. You’ll have no problem having this pouch attached to your bra strap and tucking it to the bra cup. As you can see from the product’s image below, this pouch is made of a soft material, making it comfortable to wear even if you have it on your skin for long hours.

More reasons why people love Skemix Under Clothes Travel Pouch is because of its lightweight figure. In addition to that, the material makes it resistant to sweat and doesn’t soak it up—another great plus point. To wrap up its amazing features, you can easily wash and dry this pouch with no problems.

The perfect travel pouch under clothes for keeping extra cash.

• Feels secure
• Soft, comfortable material
• Lightweight
• It doesn’t soak up sweat
• Some issues with the closure clip
• Too small to be your only travel pouch, especially if you’re traveling internationally

SE Concealed Dual Zipper Travel Pouch

With hundreds of reviews online, SE Concealed Dual Zipper Travel Pouch should be on the list. This travel pouch under clothes is one of the best you can find online for many reasons, but mainly because the price makes people happy. It’s not anything overpriced for a travel pouch and not too cheap to make you have to deal with its trade-offs.

Aside from its friendly price tag, the pouch is also highly functional. It easily fits all your traveling essentials, including your passport. With two inner pockets inside the zippered pockets, the design gives you extra peace of mind while you’re traveling. You can now feel more confident and less paranoid with this pouch just over your hip and under your shirt. The soft fabric on the back may both be the pros and cons; it doesn’t scratch against your skin yet somehow makes it sweat absorbent. But the latter is not much of a big deal considering all the positive points it has.

A small item that does wonders.

• Two inner pockets
• Easily adjustable strap
• Comfortable to wear
• Soft fabric on the back makes it sweat absorbant
• The strap is a bit flimsy

Peak Gear Travel Money Belt with RFID Block

Having its material made of 210deniar water-resistant nylon is not the only great thing this pouch offers. Peak Gear Travel Money Belt with RFID Block is a well-made under clothes travel pouch that’s worth your every penny. The design is very slim and sleek, accompanied by high-quality YKK zippers.

It’s designed with two zippered compartments, one of them provides roomy space to keep your passport, cash, and cards. All of which are easily accessible within a moment’s notice. On top of that, the pouch is featured with an RFID Blocker; this gives you more security knowing you’re safe from even the most advanced threat there is.

Another great thing about Peak Gear Travel Money Belt is that it’s very comfortable to wear, even for long hours, Thanks to the pouch’s moisture-wicking back panel, you won’t have to deal with that build-up moisture from a long day worth of sweat.

An overall fantastic pouch made for frequent travelers.

• Well-made and well-constructed
• Secured with high-quality YKK zippers
• Durability issues

Armear Travel Belt Waist Pack

When you’re traveling across the pond, there are some valuables that you should always keep with you and not in your backpack. The Armear Travel Belt Waist Pack is the perfect travel pouch under clothes for that. This simple yet highly-functional travel pouch is spacious enough to hold all your traveling essentials. It comes with two separate zippered compartments – which adds another layer of security for your valuables. Say goodbye to your worries whenever you’re on public transportation.

We all know how big phones can get these days and the good news is, you can easily put a big phone in this pouch. Even when fully loaded, the pouch doesn’t feel unnecessarily bulky. Thanks to the elastic strap around the waist, it makes it very comfortable to wear around your hip. All things considered, it easily makes a great under clothing travel pouch.

Awesome fit & value, highly-functional, and comfortable to wear.

• Comfortable and easy to wear
• Fits big phones
• Great fit and sturdy
• Issues on the buckle’s size and positioning
• Waist belts get very sweaty in warm and humid areas

Aikelida Travel Wallet – Money Belt

Aikelida Travel Wallet – Money Belt simply makes a great under clothes travel pouch because it has all the many great features without you having to pay double for the price. The pouch is equipped with RFID blockers and holds a lot of items. It can be challenging to find a travel pouch under clothes that fit big phones, but you won’t have to deal with such a problem with this pouch.

The pouch is made of durable, rip-stop nylon that lasts for many years. The front pocket is equipped with RFID blockers, so yes, it’s the best place to keep your credit cards. Its breathable padded mesh back helps to prevent moisture build-up—making it very comfortable to wear even for a long period. Another great advantage to having this pouch is that it’s machine-washable, a great bonus after long sweaty days spent roaming around your travel destination.

All the great features without paying double for the price!

• Fit big phones
• Holds a lot of items
• Adjustable belt
• Buckle snap is too small and flimsy
• Maybe too big for anyone with small figures

Lewis N. Clark Travel Pouch with RFID

Coming from one of the most popular brands for accessories, you can set your expectations high with this pouch. And we’re happy to tell you that Lewis N. Clark Travel Pouch with RFID effortlessly meets those expectations.

The main thing we like about this under clothing travel pouch is the slim design. Yet to our pleasant surprise, it’s roomy enough to hold all of your valuables wherever you are on the planet. On top of that, the pouch is also very well-made and comfortable to wear. The best winning combo for any traveling pouch available out there.

As the name suggests, you can now have your peace of mind knowing your most important belongings are well-protected with RFID. Even when it’s fully loaded you won’t have to worry about its figure getting too bulky.

Deceivingly roomy; great to keep all your valuables while traveling.

• Thin yet roomy enough to hold all your essentials
• Not necessarily bulky
• Equipped with RFID protection

Pacsafe Coversafe S25 Undercover Travel Pouch

This hidden under clothes travel pouch is your best choice if you want something very discreet. Available in two colors, black and soft pink, there’s something for everyone here! People are happy with the size as it makes it easier to access or to be taken out of their pants. Thanks to its sturdy snap, it attaches to your bra or belt nicely.

Pacsafe Coversafe S25 Undercover Travel Pouch is also praised for its material quality. It’s far from anything that gets uncomfortable against the skin. In fact, it seems to be very soft and made of high-quality material. Pacsafe seems to be paying really good attention to its product to the point that they consider every little detail of the build. The best part of this product is that it manages to provide everything you need in a small bra pouch without customers having to pay an overpriced tag. Love it!

The perfect tiny travel pouch under clothes for everyone!

• Easy to use
• Soft, high-quality material
• Sturdy snap
• Very comfortable to wear
• Only suitable for cards and cash

Shacke Hidden Travel Wallet

Shacke Hidden Travel Wallet is another proof that you don’t need to spend too much money on an excellent product. Just for 8 USD, you’re getting yourself a comfortable travel pouch under clothes that holds a lot. A passport, phone, some cash, and credit cards easily fit into this hidden pouch. It’s particularly very roomy for cards as one user mentioned how it holds about 12 cards in a place.

Designed with a belt-loop, it makes it easier to store and provides better security. You’ll easily notice if anyone tries to tug this pouch out of your pocket. While zippers can be the reason whether it breaks or makes the product, we’re happy to find out that Shacke Hidden Travel Wallet is equipped with a great-quality zipper. If you’ve been on the hunt for a new travel pouch, this will make the cut.

Highly-affordable without you having to deal with any trade-off.

• Very roomy for cards
• Great-quality zipper
• Construction issues

Eazymate Fashion Travel Money Belt (CU)

Eazymate Fashion Travel Money Belt is really here to make your life a lot easier. This under clothes travel pouch is so discreet and comfortable to wear under your shirt or pants. Its opening is wide enough to get your phone or passports in, The compartment is even better as it may look compact from the outside yet it’s deceivingly spacious. Some users mentioned that it holds their big phone and another said it holds two passports at the same time.

You’ll appreciate how it’s very easy to slip on and off. The pouch itself is made of a thin, spandex material and is generally comfortable to wear. It’s also built with two separate zippers in the front for super handy access to your items inside.

Fashionable travel pouch with pleasant surprises along as you wear it.

• Easy to slip on and off
• Build with two separate zippers in the front
• Holds a decent amount of items

Herschel Fourteen Waist Pack (1.0L)

Herschel’s Waist Pack comes in several different sizes and their Fourteen Waist Pack is the best pick for an under clothing travel pouch. Coming from one of the most popular accessory companies, you can expect extensive choices of designs and colors. Other travel pouches simply do not give you all the fun and vibe like Herschel’s design does.

First things first, this may be the least discreet under clothes travel pouch. If you wear it under your shirt, it will likely form the bulk and is not so hidden. Even so, it’s still among the safest choices since you’re always going to have it with you at all times. The main compartment holds a lot of different items, along with your traveling essentials, you can easily fit sunglasses inside. Thanks to its long, adjustable strap, you can adjust it to find your best fit.

An all-around functional travel pouch—with great design and choices of colors.

• Very stylish and holds a lot of items
• Not too bulky
• Extensive choices of designs and colors
• Long, adjustable strap
• Comes in a perfect size for travel
• Some users complained about durability issues

Eagle Creek Silk Undercover Travel Money Belt

Eagle Creek isn’t only name-dropping with its Silk Undercover Travel Money Belt . They do make the most out of its breathable, natural silk construction to provide the most comfortable under clothing travel pouch you can find today. This directly translates to staying comfortable all day while keeping all your valuables as safe as possible. Even better, the material allows it to be washable and water-resistant.

Its super slim and lightweight figure is responsible for the low-key existence. Some users are surprised that they often forget that they’re wearing this travel pouch. Although the pouch seems slim, you won’t have to worry about storing your traveling essentials. Your passport, phone, cards, and cash easily fit into this pouch with no problems. Thanks to its delicate compartment, you can keep your items well-organized throughout the journey.

A must-have for every traveler wanting to keep their valuables safe at all times—with the least and most tolerable trade-off on the product.

• Made of breathable natural silk construction
• Slim and lightweight
• Flimsy clasp

Author:  Adam G

As a travel enthusiast and experienced adventurer, I have spent years exploring the world and discovering hidden gems in every corner of the globe. From backpacking through Europe to trekking in the Himalayas, I have chased my passion for travel and embraced every opportunity to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Now, as a travel writer, I channel my love of exploration into creating informative and inspiring content for fellow travelers. Whether you're planning a solo trip to a remote destination or seeking family-friendly activities in a bustling city, I am dedicated to providing you with the tools and knowledge you need to make the most of your journey. With a keen eye for detail and a love of storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid descriptions and engaging narratives, highlighting the unique experiences and attractions that make each place so special. So join me on this journey of discovery, and let's explore the world together!

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The 16 Best Crossbody Bags for Travel in 2024

Every adventure seeker needs one.

As someone who travels every two to three months, I know just how important your choice of baggage can be. While the right luggage sets and weekender bags can make or break a trip, we'd argue that picking the right crossbody travel bag or purse to use in your day-to-day is just as crucial. Pick a bag too small and you'll be left holding water bottles and guide maps in your hand (annoying). Pick a bag too large and it'll be too cumbersome to use.

If you're not the backpack type, you'll want to look for other travel bag alternatives—and that's where these travel-ready crossbody styles come in. From typical crossbody bags to leather totes with crossbody straps, these bags combine function with style to serve as the perfect addition to your next getaway. They're just small enough to carry hassle-free, but are designed to hold all of your must-haves without a fuss—some even boast anti-theft features. 

Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

• Best Overall Crossbody Bag for Travel: Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody Bag
• Best Budget Crossbody Bag for Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
• Best Splurgeworthy Crossbody Bag for Travel: MZ Wallace Crosby Zip Nylon Crossbody Bag
• Best Compact Crossbody Bag for Travel: Minooy Athena Unique Design Mini Crossbody Bag / Wallet
• Best Tote-Sized Crossbody Bag for Travel: Portland Leather Goods "Almost Perfect" Crossbody Tote

You can relax your grip with this crossbody bag. Pacsafe's water-repellent crossbody bag for travel features anti-theft properties such as a slashguard strap and exterior, RFIDsafe pockets, and material to block out credit card or chip readers, plus turn-and-lock security. Plus, it easily expands for those days you need extra space with enough room for a tablet. 

Pros: Expandable style; Hidden storage pocket for extra security; Includes anti-theft technology; Comes in three colors. 

Cons : Narrow shoulder strap. 

Customer review: "I think this is the best travel bag ever! It is lightweight and comfortable to wear crossbody. I feel secure wearing it. Holds everything I need, and I love the deep pocket for money and passports." — Pacsafe 

With over 4,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, this crossbody bag has been touted as a great option for safeguarding your belongings abroad thanks to features such as RFID protection and anti-slash straps. Reviewers love all the pockets available in this bag, especially the hidden front pocket where you can store your cell phone and city guide maps.

Pros: Under $100; Zip top closure; Two water bottle pockets; Adjustable shoulder strap; Includes anti-theft technology; 

Cons: Reviewers note this bag feels a bit heavy. 

Customer review: "I bought this purse to take with me to Europe. We visited 4 countries in 3 weeks and this was the only purse I needed for all our excursions. It's very comfortable, kept everything organized, and the built-in cup holders were SO handy!!!!" — Amazon

For the Marie Kondo-obsessed comes this crossbody and wallet in one. One look inside this bag and you'll be shocked by the many little pockets this bag has. This small but mighty bag can fit all of your credit cards, a journal, makeup, passport, toiletries, and even an iPad mini thanks to its organized, compact design. Plus, with RFID-blocking pockets, you can feel safe knowing your credit cards are protected. With smooth high-quality leather, plan to use this bag for plenty of travels over the years. 

Pros: Multiple inner pockets for organization; Includes anti-theft technology; Adjustable shoulder strap; Can hold up to 12 cards; Zip top closure; Made from real leather; Comes in six colors. 

Cons: Over $150. 

Customer review: "As a frequent traveler, I wanted a bag that would comfortably hold all my essentials--and do so safely--but not weigh me down. This bag is absolutely PERFECT for my needs. It holds my cards in an RFID-protected space, pen and journal, my reading and sunglasses, hand cream, lip balm, and keys with room to spare for my iPhone! Plus, the leather is so incredibly soft and luxurious! LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag!" — Minooy

If your trips involve unpredictable weather or the forecast looks stormy, you'll want to invest in a water-resistant crossbody bag. This one from Lululemon will keep your belongings dry and is roomy enough to fit all your essentials. The thoughtful extra-wide opening means you can easily find what you're looking for without having to dig around. The adjustable strap means you can convert this into a sleek shoulder bag, too. 

Pros: Under $100; Water-repellent fabric; Adjustable shoulder strap; Zip closure; Comes in three colors. 

Cons:  Reviewers note this bag can lose structure over time. 

Customer review: "I bought this for a New York trip that I am currently on and it is the best! There are so many more pockets than I was expecting and I can fit so much in it without having to carry a big bulky backpack. Highly recommend." — Lululemon

Anytime I travel, I'm always tempted to bring along at least three different purses to go along with any of my plans. But since that's not the most practical way to back, I've found a better solution with this convertible bag. It's not just a crossbody bag—it can also be converted into a shoulder bag, belt bag, and even a wristlet. With so many ways to wear it, this bag is the ultimate travel piece to bring along so you stay in style. There's also a ton of different colors and leather options (including vegan leather!) to suit your fancy. 

Pros: Convertible design; Zip top closure; Comes in 26 colors and three leather options.  

Cons: Can't fit larger items. 

Customer review: "Love this bag! I bought it for a long trip I’m Europe. I’m currently traveling and so far I love it! I wanted something that was functional and but also matches my European summer outfits! This was perfect fit! The quality is better than expected! I love the quality of the zippers too! Overall luxury feel bag with functional design! It is perfect!Read more about review stating European summer dream purse!" — Lo & Sons

Don't be fooled by the seemingly small size of this bag. This surprisingly spacious crossbody contains plenty of pockets to keep your essentials organized and comes with two interchangeable crossbody straps, one leather and one chain. It's the perfect bag for moms traveling with small tots who need space to stash on-the-go snacks and other necessities.

Pros: Comes with two adjustable strap options; Features four external zippered pockets for easy access; Zip top closure. 

Cons: Over $200. 

Customer review: "This bag holds everything! I can’t believe all that fits inside. Amazing! Not to mention the 3 strap options. This bag is a winner and worth every dollar!"

For those seeking an alternative to leather crossbody bags, check out Matt & Nat. The brand, founded in 2007, makes accessories out of recycled materials like nylon, cardboard, rubber and cork, and water bottles. This under-$100 option comes in six colors and looks sophisticated.

Pros: Under $100; Adjustable shoulder strap; Made from recycled materials and vegan leather; Zip top closure; Comes in six colors. 

Cons: Cannot hold large items. 

A good leather tote is a must-have in everyone's closet, but one suited for travel is even better. This classic tote will fit all of your things, whether it be a laptop or water bottle, and keep them secure with its zip-top closure. Made from real leather, this tote will last you through plenty of trips while also keeping its structured shape and even doubles as a work bag . A detachable shoulder strap makes this tote even easier to haul from destination to destination. 

Pros: Made from real leather; Zip top closure; Comes in 10 colors. 

Cons: Unlined.

Customer review: "I am in love with my violet cross body tote! The quality is amazing and I could just fondle that gorgeous leather all day. I use the shoulder straps and I love having the zipper for added security. This is a great size for an everyday bag for me." — Portland Leather Goods 

In case you didn't know, puffer bags are trending hard this season, so why not upgrade your travel bag to fit the times? Not only is this big tote stylish, but it's also functional enough for your next big trip. You can fit a water bottle, laptop, and a pair of shoes in the roomy interior, plus there's a zipper exterior pocket for quick access. 

Pros: Under $100; Adjustable and removable crossbody strap; Includes a water bottle pocket and padded laptop sleeve; Zip top closure; Padded shoulder straps. 

Cons: Reviewers note the inner lining is not durable. 

Customer review: "Bought this to use as a carryon for travel. Lightweight and comfortable shoulder straps." — Calia 

A camera-style bag may be simple, but it's an incredibly effective carry-all when it comes to travel. Leatherology's double zip camera bag is just the right size to hold all of your essentials without adding any extra bulk. With two zippered compartments, you can easily keep your things organized, plus the really important things like your passport and ID will be extra secure in the internal zipper pocket. The best feature of this bag, though, is that it comes in 17(!!) different colors including neutrals, pretty pastels, and croc-embossed leather, and has the option for personalization. 

Pros: Comes in 17 colors; Can be personalized; Zip top closure; Made from real leather; 

Cons: Can't hold large items. 

Customer review: "I got this bag for traveling on my honeymoon and I did the trapunto monogram with my new married initials and this bag was worth every penny. It held so much and yet was compact, traveled well. It’s durable yet soft and supple! I love this bag so so much for traveling and just being on the go and I will be back for more!" — Leatherology

Neoprene, AKA the fabric used in scuba gear, may not be the first material you think of to use in a bag, but it has some seriously good uses. First off, it's waterproof so whether you're heading to a tropical location or get caught in the rain, your things will be well protected. It's also resistant against tears or cuts, plus it's machine washable. Besides the killer fabric on this bag, it's got a ton of compartments for all of your things and a nice wide shoulder strap to keep you comfy even on the longest of travel days. 

Pros: Comes in five colors; Adjustable shoulder strap; Zip top closure; Has multiple interior pockets. 

Cons: Some reviewers note the shoulder strap is too short. 

Customer review: "The perfect crossbody for travel or everyday. I bought it for a recent trip and it was exactly what I wanted. The bag was big enough to fit sunglasses, camera, wallet, and the front pocket was perfect for chapstick, keys, and other small travel items. The storm (navy) color is beautiful, also bought the large Landon carryall duffle to match." — Nordstrom

A travel bag doesn't have to sacrifice style to get the job done. Prime example: Cuyana's Double Loop Bag. The unique double loop design of the shoulder strap adds a chic touch to this bag, and if you opt for this poppy red shade, it's even more of a statement. Another added bonus is the adjustable shoulder strap—in just a snap, you can turn this bag from a crossbody to a shoulder bag, meaning it can take you from day to night in seconds. 

Pros: Made from real leather; Adjustable shoulder strap; Comes in six colors. 

Cons: No zip top closure.

Madewell's Transport Tote is one of our favorite leather totes of all time, so it should come as no surprise that we love the crossbody version as well. It's made from soft leather that reviewers say looks and feels luxurious. The interior is roomier than you may think and is specially designed to hold at least a tablet, pouch, and water bottle. Another great feature is the double set of straps. Depending on your desired look and your plans, you can switch up this bag from a crossbody to a shoulder bag to fit your needs. 

Pros: Zip top closure; Made from real leather; Includes two adjustable and removable shoulder straps; Comes in four colors. 

Cons: Some reviewers note the shoulder strap is too long. 

Customer review: "I live in a city and walk alot and can't say enough about this bag. It's big enough for a reusable bag, small umbrella, bottle of water. I have it in black and want to buy the camel or green for the spring/summer. LOVE!" — Madewell 

If you're the type of person that prefers to travel light, this crossbody bag is right up your alley. It may be small, but it holds your travel essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and passport securely and in style. And because your phone is likely what you reach for most, you can keep it handy with an easy-to-reach for pocket. Reviewers say the quality of the leather is especially good, making the bag look and feel extra luxurious. 

Pros: Zip top closure; Includes handy pocket for phone; Made from real leather. 

Customer review: "I am in LOVE! It’s everything I wanted :) it’s so soft and spacious for essentials and has the perfect slot for your phone :)" — Bandolier 

Sometimes simple is better, as made clear in this Kate Spade crossbody bag. With a sleek, classic design, this bag suits just about everyone's style and will go with nearly everything in your closet. It's not too big or not too small so you can easily fit your travel essentials comfortably, plus the zip top closure and inner zipper pocket keeps them secure. While you can't go wrong with black, we love this pale blue for a parred-down pop of color, or go even punchier with a bright Barbie pink. 

Pros: Zip top closure; Interior zipper pocket; Adjustable shoulder strap; Comes in three colors. 

Cons: Some reviewers note that the hardware on the shoulder strap squeaks. 

Customer review: "Nice size and leather not too stiff. Nice outer pocket for cell. Nice guitar type strap looks on trend. Light blue should go with a lot of outfits. Nice style!" — Nordstrom 

Speaking from personal experience, JW PEI bags are of crazy good quality for their price point. If you're looking for a trendier piece to take with you on your travels, might I suggest the brand's Mini Flap Crossbody? Available in 19 different colorways including this dark brown (perfect for fall, by the way) and fun shades like metallic silver and bright pink, there's a shade for every style. While this bag doesn't have a zip closure, it does close with a magnetic button and has an interior zipper pocket for your most precious items. 

Pros: Under $100; Comes in 19 colors; Interior zipper pocket. 

Cons: No zip top closure; Shoulder strap is not adjustable. 

Customer review: "Super cute bag with plenty of room for the essentials. Also fits my iPhone perfectly. I like that it stays closed as well, things don’t fall out." — Amazon

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Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes across the board from fashion and beauty to books and celebrities. As a pop culture junkie, Brooke obsessively consumes and writes about the latest movie releases, streaming TV shows, and celebrity scandals. She has over three years of experience writing on fashion, beauty, and entertainment and her work has appeared on Looper, NickiSwift, The Sun US, and Vox Magazine of Columbia, Missouri. Brooke obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism with an emphasis on Magazine Editing and has a minor in Textile and Apparel Management.

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Home > Guide To The Best Travel Products > 17 Best Cross Body Bag For Travel In Europe In 2024

17 Best Cross Body Bag For Travel In Europe In 2024

Here are my recommendations for the 17 best cross-body bags for travel in Europe. You’ll find all sizes, family-friendly & antitheft options.

Travel requires many different things, including baggage . Where you put your belongings is just as important as what you actually take with you. It’s no wonder the luggage industry is booming!

Of course, you don’t only need a suitcase; you also need a carry-on bag and something to take with you on trips once you’re at your destination. For instance, if you’re heading off on a city break, do you want to be walking around your new location with a huge bag on your back? Probably not!

This is why I always have a crossbody travel bag with me during a trip . Actually, I use one every day.

If you are more of a backpack person, we have a massive list of women’s backpacks we love.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Why You Need A Crossbody Bag For Travel In Europe

Why exactly do you need crossbody travel bags when you venture off somewhere? Why won’t any old bag just do for your European travels?

Well, it comes down to a few different things – first, fashion; second, functionality; and third, security .

These are all pretty important things when you’re on the go, and for those reasons, you need a bag you can trust and one that will stand up to the rigors of travel, both the actual getting from A to B part of the deal and when you’re out sightseeing too.

Crossbody Bags Reviews

All around travel crossbody bags, 1. lululemon night festival micro belt bag, star rating: ★★★★★ (5/5).

• Sleek and Stylish Design: The Lululemon Night Festival Micro Belt Bag features a sleek and stylish design that complements various outfits, making it a fashionable accessory.
• Compact Size: Despite its compact size, it offers enough space for your essentials like keys, cell phone, wallet, and a few small items, making it perfect for on-the-go activities.
• High-Quality Materials: Lululemon is known for its premium materials and craftsmanship, ensuring the bag’s durability and longevity.
• Adjustable Belt: The adjustable belt allows for a comfortable and secure fit, accommodating different body sizes.
• Versatile Wear: You can wear it as a traditional belt bag around your waist or as a crossbody bag for added versatility.
• Lululemon Quality: The brand’s commitment to quality and functionality shines through in this accessory.
• Price: Lululemon products often come with a higher price tag, which may not be budget-friendly for some shoppers.
• Limited Storage: Due to its small size, it may not be suitable for those who need to carry larger items or a lot of belongings.

In summary, the Lululemon Night Festival Micro Belt Bag is an excellent choice for individuals looking for a stylish and compact accessory to carry their essentials. Its versatile design, premium materials, and adjustable belt make it a convenient and fashionable option. However, it may not be ideal for those with extensive storage needs or budget constraints.

2. Carhartt Legacy Women’s Crossbody Carry All

Star rating: ★★★★ (4/5).

• Durability: Carhartt is known for its rugged and durable products, and this crossbody bag is no exception.
• Spacious: With ample room and multiple inner pockets, it’s great for carrying a variety of items like lip balm, making it suitable for both daily use and travel.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit, accommodating different body types.
• Classic Design: The simple and timeless design makes it one of the best versatile bags and suitable for various occasions.
• High-Quality Materials: Constructed with high-quality materials, it’s built to withstand wear and tear.
• Lack of Security Features: It doesn’t have anti-theft or RFID-blocking features, so it may not be the best choice for those concerned about security during travel.

The Carhartt Legacy Women’s Crossbody Carry All is a durable and spacious option for individuals seeking a reliable bag for various purposes. Its classic design and adjustable strap provide both functionality and style. However, it lacks specific security features, which may be a consideration for some buyers.

3. Baggallini Cross Over Crossbody Bag (Lightweight, Water Resistant)

• Lightweight and Water Resistant: Ideal for outdoor activities and travel, this bag can handle various weather conditions.
• Organization: Multiple interior pockets and compartments help keep your belongings organized.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody straps ensures a comfortable fit.
• Stylish and Versatile: Its design combines functionality with style, making it suitable for a wide range of activities.
• Durable Build: Made with quality materials, it’s built to last.
• Not Ideal for Heavier Loads: Due to its lightweight design, it may not be the best choice for carrying heavier items.

The Baggallini Cross Over Crossbody Bag is a lightweight and versatile option for those who prioritize organization and style. Its water-resistant properties make it suitable for outdoor adventures, while its interior slip pockets keep your belongings tidy. However, it may not be the best choice for carrying heavier items.

4. Crossbody Casual Messenger Bag

• Affordable: This bag offers good value for the price, making it accessible to budget-conscious shoppers.
• Casual Design: Its simple and casual design is suitable for everyday use.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit.
• Spacious: It provides enough room for essentials like a wallet, keys, and a small tablet or book.
• Various Color Options: Available in bright and neutral color combos, allowing you to choose your preferred style.
• Limited Durability: It may not be as durable as higher-end options, and the materials may show signs of wear over time.

The Crossbody Casual Messenger Bag is an affordable and practical choice for individuals seeking a budget-friendly option for daily use. Its casual design and adjustable strap offer versatility, but it may not withstand heavy wear and tear over an extended period.

5. OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse

• Tablet Compartment: Designed with a dedicated tablet compartment, it’s perfect for tech-savvy individuals on the go.
• Stylish Design: Its modern and stylish design makes it suitable for various occasions, including work and travel.
• Organization: Multiple compartments and interior slip pocket help keep your belongings organized.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit.
• High-Quality Brand: OGIOis known for its quality and durability, providing peace of mind.
• Not Ideal for Heavier Loads: It may not be the best choice for those needing to carry a lot of items, as it’s designed with a more streamlined profile.

The OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse is a stylish and tech-friendly option for individuals who prioritize organization and modern aesthetics. Its dedicated tablet compartment and quality brand reputation make it an attractive choice. However, it may not be suitable for those with extensive storage needs.

Brands We Use And Trust

Crossbody bags for moms, 6. waterfly crossbody sling backpack/daypack.

• Versatile Design: This sling backpack/daypack offers multiple carrying options, making it suitable for various activities such as hiking, biking, or everyday use.
• Lightweight and Compact: Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry on the go.
• Ample Storage: Despite its compact size, it provides enough room for essentials, including a water bottle and small items.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap ensures a comfortable fit.
• Durable Build: Constructed with quality materials, it’s built to withstand outdoor adventures.
• Casual Aesthetic: While it’s perfect for outdoor activities, it may not be the most stylish choice for formal occasions.

The WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack/Daypack is a versatile and practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts and active individuals. Its lightweight design and multiple carrying options make it suitable for various activities, though it may not be the most stylish option for formal settings.

7. Kipling Women’s Gabbie Crossbody, Lightweight Everyday Purse

• Lightweight and Compact: Designed for daily use, it’s lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
• Stylish Design: Kipling is known for its playful and colorful designs, making this crossbody purse suitable for fashion-conscious individuals.
• Organization: Multiple pockets and compartments help keep your belongings well-organized.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap allows for a comfortable and customizable fit.
• Quality Brand: Kipling products are known for their quality and durability.
• Limited Space: It may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items or a lot of belongings.

The Kipling Women’s Gabbie Crossbody is a lightweight and stylish option for individuals seeking a daily purse. Its playful design and brand reputation for quality make it an attractive choice. However, it may not accommodate those with extensive storage needs.

8. Baggallini Everywhere Bag with RFID

• RFID Protection: This bag features RFID-blocking technology to safeguard your credit cards and personal information.
• Versatile Design: It’s suitable for everyday use, travel, or even as a work bag.
• Spacious and Organized: Multiple pockets and compartments offer excellent organization and ample storage space.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap provides a comfortable fit.
• Stylish and Functional: It combines fashion with functionality, making it versatile for various occasions.
• Higher Price: The added security features can make it more expensive compared to non-RFID bags.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag with RFID is a secure and organized choice for individuals concerned about personal information security. Its versatile design and ample storage space make it suitable for various purposes, though it may come at a slightly higher price point.

9. Sherpani Dispatch Convertible Backpack, Tote, Crossbody Bag

• Convertible Design: This bag can be used as a backpack, tote, or crossbody bag, providing versatility for different activities and preferences.
• Stylish Aesthetics: Its design combines fashion and functionality, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Organization: Multiple pockets and compartments help keep your belongings organized.
• Adjustable Straps: It offers adjustable straps for a comfortable and customizable fit.
• Quality Materials: Sherpani is known for using quality materials, ensuring durability.
• Potential Limited Space: Depending on the configuration, it may not have as much space as dedicated backpacks or totes.

The Sherpani Dispatch Convertible Backpack, Tote, Crossbody Bag is a versatile and stylish choice for individuals seeking a multifunctional bag. Its convertible design and quality materials make it an attractive option. However, it may have limited space compared to dedicated backpacks or totes.

Antitheft Crossbody Bags

10. travelon anti-theft heritage crossbody bag.

• Anti-Theft Features: Thisbag is equipped with multiple security features, including locking zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and cut-resistant straps, making it ideal for travelers concerned about safety.
• Spacious and Organized: With multiple pockets and compartments, it offers ample space to organize your essentials, including a tablet or e-reader.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap provides a comfortable fit and allows for customization.
• Stylish Design: Its heritage-inspired design combines fashion with functionality, making it suitable for various settings.
• Durable Build: Constructed with quality materials, it’s built to withstand wear and tear.
• Higher Price: The added security features can make it more expensive compared to non-anti-theft bags.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Crossbody Bag is a secure and organized choice for travelers and those concerned about personal safety. Its anti-theft features and ample storage space make it suitable for various purposes, though it may come at a higher price point.

11. Travelon Anti-Theft Tour Bag

• Anti-Theft Features: Similar to the Heritage Crossbody Bag, this bag also boasts anti-theft technology, providing enhanced security for your belongings.
• Compact and Lightweight: Designed for minimalists and travelers, it’s lightweight and won’t weigh you down.
• Spacious and Organized: Despite its compact size, it offers well-organized pockets and compartments for essentials.
• Heritage-Inspired Design: Its design combines a vintage aesthetic with modern security features.
• Limited Space: Due to its compact size, it may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Tour Bag offers enhanced security in a compact and lightweight package. Its anti-theft features and organized design make it suitable for travelers and minimalists. However, it may not have enough space for those with larger storage needs.

12. Sherpani Vale Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse

• Anti-Theft Features: This bag features RFID-blocking technology for added security against electronic theft.
• Stylish and Eco-Friendly: Sherpani is known for using sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their products, and this bag combines style with environmental consciousness.
• Organized Design: It offers well-thought-out compartments and pockets for organization.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable crossbody strap ensures a comfortable and secure fit.
• Compact and Lightweight: Designed for minimalists, it’s ideal for those who prefer carrying just the essentials.
• Limited Space: Similar to other compact crossbody bags, it may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items or numerous belongings.
• Limited Color Options: The available color range may be limited compared to other brands.

The Sherpani Vale Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse is a secure and eco-friendly choice for environmentally-conscious individuals. Its anti-theft features and stylish design make it an attractive option, though it may not provide enough space for those with larger storage needs.

Small Crossbody Bags

13. madewell women’s the simple crossbody bag.

• Timeless Design: The Madewell Simple Crossbody Bag boasts a classic and minimalist design that complements various outfits, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
• Quality Materials: Crafted with high-quality Italian leather, this bag not only looks great but also promises durability and longevity.
• Practical Size: The compact size is perfect for essentials like a wallet, phone, keys, and a few small accessories, making it great for a night out or a day in the city.
• Madewell Brand: Madewell is known for its commitment to quality and style.
• Higher Price: The use of premium materials and brand reputation can result in a higher price point.
• Limited Space: Due to its small size, it may not be suitable for those who need to carry larger items.

The Madewell Women’s The Simple Crossbody Bag is a timeless and stylish choice for individuals looking for a small, high-quality bag. Its classic design, premium materials, and adjustable strap offer both fashion and functionality. However, it may not accommodate those with larger storage needs or budget constraints.

14. Fossil Women’s Fiona Small Crossbody Bag

• Versatile Design: The Fossil Fiona Small Crossbody Bag combines a classic aesthetic with modern functionality, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Quality Materials: Crafted with high-quality leather, it promises durability and style.
• Compact and Practical: The small size is ideal for carrying essentials without unnecessary bulk.
• Brand Reputation: Fossil is known for its commitment to quality and design.
• Higher Price: Like other premium brands, Fossil products may come at a higher price point.
• Limited Space: It may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items or numerous belongings.

The Fossil Women’s Fiona Small Crossbody Bag is a versatile and stylish choice for individuals seeking a compact bag with a classic touch. Its quality materials and brand reputation make it an attractive option, though it may not provide enough space for those with larger storage needs or budget constraints.

15. Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Small Logo Crossbody Bag

• Designer Appeal: The Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Crossbody Bag features the designer’s logo and style, making it an attractive choice for fashion-conscious individuals.
• Compact and Lightweight: The perfect size is ideal for essentials, and it won’t weigh you down during your day.
• Quality Materials: Crafted with high-quality materials, it offers both style and durability.
• Designer Price: The Michael Kors brand and designer appeal can result in a higher price tag.
• Limited Space: Due to its small size, it may not be suitable for those needing to carry larger items.

The Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Small Logo Crossbody Bag is a designer choice for those who prioritize fashion and style. Its great size and designer logo make it an attractive option for minimalists and fashion-conscious individuals. However, it may come with a higher price tag and limited space for larger items.

16. Sherpani Zoom Small Crossbody Purse

• Lightweight and Compact: Ideal for minimalists, this small crossbody purse is perfect for carrying just the essentials.
• Sustainable Materials: Sherpani is known for using sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their products, making it a choice for environmentally-conscious buyers.
• Adjustable Strap: The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit and comfortable wear.
• RFID Protection: Some versions of this bag may offer RFID protection, enhancing security.
• Limited Space: If you need to carry more than a few essentials, this bag’s small size may not be sufficient.
• Limited Color Options: The range of available colors may be limited compared to other brands and models.

The Sherpani Zoom Small Crossbody Purse is an excellent choice for minimalists and environmentally-conscious buyers. Its lightweight, sustainable materials, and stylish design make it a versatile option for various occasions. However, it may not be suitable for those needing more storage space or a wide range of color choices.

17. Baggallini Horizon Crossbody Bag

This bag is bigger, which means you can get more inside, and you can choose from several different colors and designs, with the red option being a desirable choice!

There are several pockets outside the bag, with secure zips inside. Anti-theft pockets are designed for your valuables, such as your keys, phone, ID card, etc.

The bag is made of fabric, making it easy to squash down, meaning it’s not bulky. The strap is adjustable, measuring 52″, so it won’t count anyone out regarding torso length. There is a coin purse included in the same design.

Reviews of these Bagallini travel bags are all very positive. In terms of a city break, or perhaps for your minimal carry-on suitcase for a short trip, this bag easily fits everything you need and keeps it all organized simultaneously.

Weight: 14.9oz

Strap Length: 52″, adjustable

Material: Nylon, waterproof

Anti-theft/security features: Anti-theft pockets inside the bag

Internal compartments: Yes

Why you should buy this crossbody bag: – Large, adjustable strap

Why you should keep looking for a new crossbody purse: – Not the most fashionable design, more about functionality

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What Is A Crossbody Bag?

There are many different types of bags around, but a crossbody bag is handy for when you’re out and about. The great thing about this bag is that it can also be used in everyday life, not just when you’re traipsing the globe.

You really need to know what this type of bag is before we go any further, though. And to answer that question, a crossbody bag is a usually smaller purse that goes across your body and has a long strap, with the bag sitting on your hip at one side.

These straps on a crossbody bag can usually be adjusted, so you can have it higher up your body or lower down, depending on your height and how comfortable you are wearing it.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Crossbody Bags For Travel?

Security is the main subject here because your bag is very unlikely to be snatched from your back or shoulder when it is sat on your hip and secured to your body by a long strap. Aside from this, your hands are free, so you don’t have to feel burdened when trying to explore a new place .

If you’re traveling with your hands free, that also means that you can carry a larger carry-on cabin bag, or pull your suitcase behind you, without feeling weighed down.

As you can see, many crossbody bag choices are on the market. Think  about your needs and budget, which will help you find the best crossbody bag for travel.

How To Choose The Perfect Crossbody Bag

Of course, you could just go out and grab any over-the-shoulder bag that looks good… but we suggest considering these factors before you buy one:

You need a crossbody travel purse that is lightweight. That way, it will feel like nothing when it is on your body empty, and you can put much more inside it as a result. A bag that feels like thin air isn’t going to be that secure because you won’t feel if someone is tugging on it, perhaps trying to open the zipper.

Strap Length

You need a bag with an adjustable strap, so you can move it however you feel comfortable, including if you are wearing a thick or thin coat or if you want it to sit higher on your hips for added security. Most of the best crossbody purses for travel do have this adjustable feature, but you need to think about it.

The waterproof material is always best. That way, you have a genuinely flexible option if you want to use it out and about, rather than just for when you’re traveling. Fabric bags are acceptable for summer use, but if you’re going to use them again, perhaps when it is raining, you might find that your belongings become a little soggy.

This is a bag you probably already have without realizing it! There is a huge range of crossbody bags on the market. For this reason, costs aren’t exceptionally high unless you want a serious brand name.

Anti-Theft/Security Features

Only the best crossbody bags for travel have advantageous features to deter thieves or make it very hard for someone to get into your bag without you realizing it. This includes a different shape to the bag, where it folds down and zips, hidden internal pockets, clips for keys, and anti-slash materials (yes, people use knives to cut bags off!)

Internal Compartments

Many cross-shoulder bags have internal compartments to organize your belongings and help keep your valuables ultra-safe. These can be on the outside or the inside, with the inside being naturally safer.

Got it all? Okay, now let’s look at the reviews of all crossbody bags for travel (aka best travel purses), and at the end, you’ll be set on deciding which one is for you.

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Best Money Belts and Anti-theft Travel Accessories

Anti-theft Products , Backpacking , Electronics , LUGGAGE

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Safety is always a big concern for many travelers, no matter where your destination or how long your journey. In this post, I’ll share the best money belt for traveling along with additional anti-theft accessories for women that would prefer not to have a bulge under their top. 

Even a seasoned traveler can easily become a victim by getting too comfortable. I knew a traveler who had their credit cards stolen in Thailand and the thieves got away with $5,000 in purchases!

If you don’t have the time to read the entire article, this is the most popular womens money belt !

Best Money Belts and Anti-theft Travel Accessories

Table of contents.

Fortunately, I’ve only been a victim of theft once in almost a decade of full time travel – a fellow backpacker stole $100 cash from my unlocked bag in a hostel. To be honest, both of these situations were completely preventable . All we had to do was lock our backpacks.

The majority of these occurrences are due to convenience and by taking a few precautions you can avoid becoming a victim of opportunistic theft. Travel insurance can sometimes help cover costs in case you are a victim, but it’s best to be cautious wherever possible.

Don’t worry – below you’ll find a roundup of the best money belts for travel so you can theft-proof your gear!

The Best Travel Money Belt: Alpha Keeper

What’s a Money Belt?

It’s an item you wear under your clothing where you can store your valuables to prevent theft. The above image shows the most traditional style, but you can find a variety of anti-theft product options below. 

Whatever you do, DO NOT WEAR THE MONEY BELT OUTSIDE OF YOUR CLOTHING.

I can’t believe how many travelers I see wearing it on the outside, advertising to thieves exactly where to find their cash. Please don’t make that mistake. It’s meant to be worn as a hidden money pouch under your clothing.

Venture 4th RFID Money Belt for Travel

Money Belt Reviews

While there are a variety of brands offering security accessories, our readers favor the beige color by Alpha Keeper and the black color by Venture 4th . They’re both made with RFID protection and water-resistant ripstop nylon.

While the one by Alpha Keeper features some colorful prints, many prefer the Venture 4th because it offers a variety of neutral colors to blend in seamlessly underneath clothing instead of brights that can show through your tops.

Pack Gear Hidden Money Belt with RFID Block

The option above by Pack Gear is unique in that it includes theft insurance and lifetime recovery service for lost items. While durable and with plenty of space for passports and credit cards, it’s thin and low profile so it’s a bit less bulky than other styles. Plus, with RFID protection, you won’t have to worry as much about identity theft!

Stashbandz Unisex Travel Belt

Whether you plan on exercising or hiking on your vacation or just sightseeing in the city, this StashBandz running belt can also conceal your valuables underneath your clothes .

Double the width of a standard waist pack, this spandex hip belt has four eight-inch wide pockets and stretches enough to accommodate larger cell phones like the iPhone Plus. The discreet zipper ensures none of your essentials fall out. Our readers consider this one of the most comfortable money belt styles!

Eagle Creek Undercover Silk Money Belt

Another comfortable option, this   Eagle Creek is a traveler-favorite for women money belts. Made from natural and soft silk, this item is easy to wear all day, plus the rose pink color is pretty, too. Equipped with two, separate zippered pockets, you can easily organize your currency in one pouch and other documents in another.

Lewis N. Clark RFID-Blocking Anti-Theft Money Belt

For a cost effective option, you can’t go wrong with the Lewis N. Clark anti-theft waist stash. It features RFID-blocking technology, a special TravelDry fabric to wick away moisture, and durable rip-stop nylon with self-repairing zippers. Along with multiple compartments, it’s lightweight and has a slim design.

Below you’ll find additional theft proof accessories to protect your valuables!

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

Secret Pockets

Personally, I prefer to use a hidden bra wallet instead of a money belt. This anti-theft product allows me to hide my cash and cards conveniently in my bra. This feels secure and comfortable and hasn’t failed me once!

I’ve used different types of bra stashes but couldn’t find something to meet my needs. Either the fabric was made of lace and scratched my skin or the strap didn’t fit across my wide bra band.

As a solution, I created my own version, the Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet . The fabric is the same as a bra so it’s soft and comfortable to wear even in the heat and humidity of Rome in the summer.

Because women come in a variety of shapes and sizes, my secret bra stash is also designed with an extra long strap to fit size A – DD+ cup sizes and bra bandwidths up to 4.5”. PLUS, it’s the only bra wallet with built-in RFID protection .

I wear my trusty bra money pouch under my arm instead of in front of my bra. I also tuck it in underneath my bra after fastening it to the bra band for extra security.

Find out how getting left behind on an organized tour to Europe is actually the reason why my Secret Bra Wallet became one of my all-time travel essentials! Learn why here.

Eagle Creek Undercover Hidden Pocket

While you can fasten the Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet to your belt loop and tuck it into your pants, the Eagle Creek Undercover Hidden Pocket can fit a passport if you’d like to hide that on your body.

Many people find this to be a comfortable option, but the caveat is that you have to wear a belt in order to use it.

Jasgoods Travel Security Money Belt

Featuring a zippered hidden pocket, the Jasgoods security belt is a great alternative to your regular one to keep your money and other valuables safe while on the road. Simply fold your bills and passport copies in half and slide them in the pocket with any other of your credit cards or ID’s.

Lewis N Clark Clip Travel Money Pouch

Similar to a bra stash, this secret wallet by Lewis N Clark offers an option you can clip to your waist belt. It also offers RFID protection. While their picture shows in on the outside of trousers, it seems to be better protected on the interior of your clothing.

Lewis N. Clark Deluxe Neck Stash

Another popular Lewis N Clark anti-theft product is their deluxe neck wallet . It can hold up to four passports, which is a plus if you’re traveling with your family. It also has durable ripstop fabric and a long strap so you can also wear it across your body.

Find out how to wear a neck wallet while traveling!

Forge TSA Lock

Luggage That Locks

The best protection in your accommodation and during transportation rides can be as easy as locking your bag.

Check out my favorite travel backpack, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and this reader’s fave anti-theft suitcase by Samsonite . If I hadn’t left my backpack locked in a hostel in Borneo, my valuables would have been gone when I returned from a scuba diving trip.

I now use the 21.5″ Osprey Ozone wheeled suitcase and alternate it with the Delsey Helium  for different trips. They’re both terrific bags and have built-in lockable zippers.

Tank Top with Secret Pockets

Clothing with Hidden Pockets

If you don’t like a money belt, stashing your passport and money in your underwear may be a better option. While traveling in El Salvador, I found a boy short style underwear with large pockets on either side of the leg.

While it was a bit awkward to wear my passport over my upper leg, I only used it during transportation journeys in Central America when the probability of getting my daypack stolen seemed a bit higher.

For something similar, a popular style is travel clothing with secret pockets by Clever Travel Companion. It features zippered tanks and underwear with hidden pockets. 

If you’re looking for clothing designed to protect your belongings, our readers share their recommendations for concealed pocket clothing !

Infinity Scarf with Zipper Pocket

Customize your anti-theft approach based on your destination. In places like Europe and Spain, where pickpockets are common, avoid clothing and bags with open pockets, giving wandering hands easy access to your things.

Coats and pants with zippers are a must!

It’s possible to find clothing accessories with zippered pockets to stash a little cash. I found the above infinity scarf online. It’s affordable and available in wide variety of prints and colors.

While you wouldn’t want to carry many things on your next the entire day, this may work well to store some larger bills and an emergency credit card on trips with cool to mild weather. 

Here are our readers top recommendations for scarves with pockets to help keep your valuables safe!

Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Quilted Slim Pouch

Anti-theft Travel Shoulder Bags

Some travelers may want to take extra precaution by using anti-theft travel shoulder bags. These specialized travel purses have safety features like lockable zippers, slash-proof materials, and sturdy straps to prevent thieves from breaking in.

Pacsafe and Travelon are the two major brands that offer these theftproof bags but our readers rave the most about Travelon. They offer a variety of styles including travel purses that don’t necessarily look like “anti-theft purses” like their Slim Crossbody shown above. It’s part of their Signature Collection, which offers some of the best-looking styles!

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag, Two Pocket

If you need more space, the best selling Travelon travel purse is the anti-theft cross body with two pockets. It has a slim design featuring slash-proof fabric, an adjustable, cut-proof shoulder strap, and zippers with a latch for extra security. It also comes with RFID blocking card slots.

It retails for as low as $30 and is available in over twenty colors. Our readers favor the bag in a classic Black but two other popular options are the Midnight and Stone colors. It’s a clear winner! 

Read more about the best anti-theft travel bags for women !

What’s the Best Money Belt for Travel?

There are many variations to anti-theft accessories, as you can see in the above article. From neck pouches to hidden pockets, there’s something to meet everyone’s needs.

In fact, the best option is to use a combination of items. That’s what I do.

For example, you can use a bra stash to store your credit cards and cash for everyday use, then use a neck pouch or pocket underwear to store your passport on transit days, and the rest of the time, use a lockable suitcase (safe or locker) to ensure your belongings are secure inside your accommodation.

Here is a quick review of the best money belts and anti-theft travel accessories:

How Do You Use Anti-Theft Accessories?

It’s important to note that anti-theft products DO NOT REPLACE YOUR NEED TO USE A WALLET.

Please keep enough money for the day in your wallet and use an anti-theft product such as a money belt or bra stash to store EXTRA cash and cards only .

I keep the bulk of my money in my bra stash but I keep what I need for the day in my pocket, purse, or wallet.  This way, I don’t have to dig into my bra or money belt awkwardly or uncomfortably every single time I need to access money.

Please DO NOT dig under your clothing every time you make a purchase. That defeats the purpose of these products.

I see this happen a lot. Travelers will get their money belt out and dig through everything so they can find what they need. This isn’t very safe as now everyone knows how much money you have and where you store it.

It’s important to be discreet, hide it, and step aside somewhere quiet or secure if you do need to get into your anti-theft product.

Please read my top ten tried and tested anti-theft travel tips for more information on how to properly use these items!

Watch the video above for the do’s and don’ts on avoiding theft while traveling.

These anti-theft accessories listed in this article are products designed to help you avoid theft while traveling. (These can also be used at home, too.)

The majority of the items are meant to be worn under your clothing to securely store cash, cards, passports, and potentially other small valuables.

Please note: you should not carry around your passport while sightseeing. Read this to learn how to keep your passport safe !

Additional Travel Safety Tips

• Don’t forget travel insurance ! Keep all your receipts because they’ll be necessary for insurance claims, along with a police report.
• Avoid sightseeing with your passport and all your money in your daypack or travel purse.
• Don’t go to big festivals and events with your passport and large amounts of money.
• Avoid leaving your passport and money unlocked in your hotel, hostel, or guesthouse.
• Use lockers provided by your accommodation (don’t forget one of the top 10 essentials on your backpacking checklist: travel locks).
• Try to only keep all your valuables on you when in transit and on transportation journeys–this is a good time to use the above gear.
• Make photocopies of your passport and offer it when an agency requires you to leave your passport as collateral. It may not always work, but it’s worth a try.
• Distribute the wealth and spread your valuables out in different places so if something does get taken, they don’t get everything.
• Always always always lock your backpack or suitcase, no matter how comfortable you feel in your accommodation.

PLEASE NOTE

As mentioned above, these items should be used as precautions. They won’t guarantee you won’t have things stolen, but they definitely improve your chances of keeping your valuables safe.

It is more likely that your cards will be stolen from inside your luggage rather than someone making off with your entire suitcase or backpack, but things do happen.

In cases where thieves steal entire bags, it usually happens on overnight buses–from underneath the bus or even from right under your seat while you sleep. It’s a sad part of travel, but it happens.

Anti-theft travel accessories are a low price to pay versus having your cash and credit cards stolen.

Watch my video on  TPSY TV for a few more anti-theft products.

Items featured in video (in order as shown)

• Anti-theft Crossbody Purse

Travel insurance can sometimes help cover costs in case you are a victim, but it’s best to be cautious about your belongings, too.

Lastly, it’s good to be well-informed and cautious, but please don’t feel paranoid.  The world is a much kinder and safer place than we give it credit for but it’s easy to feel a bit stressed out when you’re a first time traveler.

While there are reports of thefts from travelers, there is a much higher number of people who’ve never experienced anything at all so don’t let it deter you from enjoying your travels.

Do you travel with anti-theft travel accessories?

For more travel safety tips, please read:

• How to Keep Your Passport Safe While Traveling
• I Had My Bag Stolen and 4 Ways I Could’ve Avoided It
• How I Keep My Valuables Safe Abroad
• Will these Safe Travel Essentials Really Help You?

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you enjoyed this post on the best money belts for traveling in addition to other ideas for antitheft accessories. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

62 comments.

Amazon says the Compass Rose Bra Wallet is no longer available.

Hi Ramona, sadly at the moment it is. We’re working on bringing it back but since COVID we’re having to start again from scratch as we’re looking for the same high quality. Hope this makes sense

These are brilliant, thanks so much! I am going to Europe for the first time in over 20 years and trying to be as prepared as possible. Your site has been SO helpful to know what to expect, what to buy, and how to (hopefully) pack light! Pickpockets are a concern for me so I can’t wait to try out some of these solutions.

This blog post was so helpful when preparing for my first trip to Europe this year. Having the Travelon purse made me feel so much safter!

CAN YOU TELL ME WHERE TO PURCHASE THIS PURSE? THE BLACK PURSE PICTURED IAT THE TOP OF THE ARTICLE?

Hi there, I am afraid that the image at the top of the article is a stock image so we are not sure of the brand. ?

Another travel bra option would be the sporty Brave Betty. Good for overnight travel and when you don’t need immediate access to the contents as the storage area is inside the back of the bra.

Hi Janet, thank you for sharing your recommendation for Brave Betty with us!! Sounds fantastic for keeping your valuables safe! 🙂

Do you have recommendation for passport storage while swimming. I’m going on a cruise. I want to swim While on shore but will need my passport to get back on the ship.

Hi Mandy, have a look at this post for some ideas for keeping your passport safe: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-keep-your-passport-safe-while-traveling/ I have also gone ahead and scheduled your question on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers are the best at answering question like yours so keep an eye out for their replies from next Wednesday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ hope this helps! Have an awesome time on your cruise! 🙂

Thanks for the post! I know this wasn’t the point of the article, but do you know what brand the bag/backpack is in the photo? I’ve been looking for something like that! (At the top of the post, sitting on the bench about to be stolen.)

Hi Jen, I am really sorry but the image is just a stock photo so I am not sure of the brand. The Baggallini Kindred tote featured in this post is similar: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-purses-which …/ Also there is the Tumi Crossbody Messenger bag, which is also quite similar: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-purse/ Sorry I could not be of more help 🙁

One of the best items I’ve bought is a ScotteVest, I can travel with everything I might need for the day and then some without looking bulky or having a bag to manage. The best part it entering museums or other venues with bag checks….I can just skip that and walk straight in. All my valuables are safely stowed in hidden pockets, I love it!

Hi Donna, thank you so much for sharing your suggestion with us! 🙂

When do you wear the money belt/bra stash? put it on before airport? When going through security, is the belt/bra stash a problem? Thank you for clearing this situation up.

Hi Theatta, I’ve just added a video that explains this all: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-keep-your-passport-safe-while-traveling/ The explanation begins at the -17:20 minute mark.

Ordered the travel bra however do you have recommendations for where to keep a smartphone when out and about. That obviously will not fit in the bra.

I carry it in my purse or jacket pocket.

I bought a waterproof case that had a clip on it. Then you can easily clip it to your belt or purse while having it in your pocket or bag. It made it easy to find to for a quick pic on the go. My friend actually had hers stolen the second day of our trip & now uses a similar case in her daily life.

Great article! My husband has a great travel sling backpack from Oakley that has zipper lock capabilities. It’s a great option for men.

Great suggestion Ashley, thanks!

where did you get it the bag for your husband?

Some great safety items for travel. I always use luggage locks and when traveling to heavily populated destinations, always wear my leather Stashbelt! 🙂

Thanks Robert!

I was reading your site and started looking online, what about this purse? Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Crossbody Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CG1J7XG/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I17IZF2509XP6D&colid=2012FMWFIFCN9

It’s super cute – I have it!

I have the purse you listed & found it extremely hard to get items in & out. The zipper opens to far up on the purse & prevents the purse from fully opening. I tried it at home last yr before going on B2B cruises in Europe & thought it would work. But I ended up using a 31 crossbody that I threw in the suitcase at the last minute. Loved it, hated the Anti-theft Travelon Purse. I was past the return period when I arrived back home so I still have it but don’t use it….wish I could give it to another traveler as I doubt I’ll ever use it.

Hi Jo, I am sorry you had that experience with the Travelon purse 🙁 but pleased you found an alternative purse which you were happy with! Let me look in to this for you!

I was wondering whether you have seen the 65fifty5 undies with the detachable pockets that are water resistant. My daughter used them for a trip to India recently and was really impressed http://www.65fifty5.com

they look good, thanks!

What about the Kavu bags? They are so popular with the young people. My 19 year old is studying abroad in Europe this summer and wants to take her Kavu which is a crossbody bag and she wears it in front .

Thanks for the suggestion Kerri! Will look into this brand

Hi Alex, great article. I’ve been using a fabric belt called Möbius Belt. What’s great about it is that I can wear and use it for all sorts of different activities, so I certainly get my moneys worth! With one belt, I can use it when I’m out exercising, when I go to a concert or event and even when I’m traveling. My husband has also been a victim of theft in Rome. It happened when we first went out in the morning so the theft of our credit cards and money ruined the rest of the day as we had to go back and be on the phone for a long time dealing with the credit card companies. And just feeling mad and frustrated on how fast and easy it was for the thief to take my husbands wallet from this pant pocket. It would have been awesome to have had Möbius Belt at that time since it can be worn comfortably and discreetly under clothing and be like a storage place for a passport (or photocopy of a passport), extra cash, backup credit cards, etc. Here is the website for Möbius Belt in case you are interested in checking it out. http://www.mobiusbelt.com

Hi Alex, I have created a product called the Global hipS-sister specifically for travel. 7 inch flattering waist bands with extra large pockets to hold valuables. Our customers LOVE wearing them while traveling. They are meant to be worn under a shirt so it looks like a layering piece. I would love to send you one so that you could try it out for yourself. If interested, contact me at [email protected]

This is really helpful! But just a question color question, if you put your money in the bra stash, how do you get it out when you need it? Or do you keep some of it in your purse?

Hi Andi, yes you always keep the amount of money you will need for the day in your purse and store the excess cash and cards in your bra stash or money belt. Great question!

Hi, I’m traveling to the Dominican Republic soon. Can I get through airport security with a hidden thigh money belt on and with money in my bra?

Hi Shemika! The money in your bra and thigh should be no problem with the metal detector but if security searches you they may wonder what it is. I’m sure it wouldn’t be an issue if it’s not an overly high sum. Hope you have a great trip!

Yes you can also long as visible

I carry small essentials in a BANDI belt. Soft and stretchy, it fits snug on waist or hips and can hold phone, passport, cash/cards/ID as well as other small items such as keys, lip gloss, mints, coins.

Sleek no-bounce alternative to a bulky fanny pack. BANDI belts come in dozens of fun colorful prints and solid fabrics. I love it!

Great tip, I’ll check them out!

Another issue with travel designed gear such as purses is they look like they hide valuables. The local hoodlums look for them, usually. Have a piece of junk or run of the mill bag and the bag won’t attract undue attention.

Being a redhead traveling where reds don’t typically originate (red occurs in every genetic group, but it’s incredibly rare outside Caucasian genomes), I cannot help but attract attention, even with it up or covered. Pale skin, red eyebrows. I’m an outsider, full stop. I try for gear to help me look unlikely to have nice things. And I don’t travel with a lot of nice things, to lessen the hit of any loss, mine or otherwise.

I just bought an RFID money belt. It looks the same as any other belt but with the added security to protect your personal data, like credit cards for example. It stops people from being able to swipe your card without your knowledge and take money or worse your identity.

I thought this was really cool and i was not aware how easy it now is for people to steal from you when walking past!

Thanks for the tip!

RFID swiping is very, very common (at least in the states). My credit card number was stolen that way. Now I use RFID sleeves and wallets to block transmission, but the info is also swiped when handing over your card to pay at restaurants (which is what happened in my case). You can’t avoid it totally, but RFID blocking accessories are definitely a big help.

Use judgement and precaution with hostel lockers. My laptop was stolen from the lockers at the Yellow Hostel in Rome. Staying in dorms can be cheap, but not safe for your belongings. My current practice is to never stay in dorms and always pring for the private room.

Have you reviewed the Bra Stash yet??I bought one off of Amazon for my trip to Spain and am curious to hear your opinion of it. Thanks for your blog. I’ve gotten lost in it for hours and keep pinning stuff to revisit later!!

Hi Jessica, I haven’t officially reviewed it but I do own it, use it all the time, and highly recommend it! Thanks for reading for hours yay 🙂

I am travelling around Europe in a few months, the purse that I wanted to take doesn’t zip at the top its got a magnet closure, but it does have a ring on the inside attached to the purse. Do you think it would be safe to use zippered pouches and hook all the zippers and such to the ring inside my purse using carabiner clips? So if a thief did try and pull something out of my bag it wouldnt come loose? Or should I just look for another bag that has a zipper on it?

Hi Jackie, it’s always a good idea to have a zippered closure just to be sure. However, if you plan to take this bag using large zippered pouches should be helpful. Does it have a zippered pocket for your wallet and phone?

I have a Coach soft leather purse with a zipper and shoulder strap. Do you think this is sufficient for my upcoming Rome/Florence/Venice trip, or should I invest on an anti-theft bag like from Travelon? My hubby and I are travelling to Italy for the first time, so please advise.

Ultimately, it is up to you. No matter what type of bag you have all you can do is take precautions: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-keep-your-passport-safe-while-traveling/ I personally carry my own purse and hold on to it tight at all times – crossbody preferred. Hope you have a great trip!

A zippered purse can be made more secure by adding tiny S carbiners to the end of the zippers. Available for less than $5.

Love your site! Planning to return to Europe next summer LIGHTLY packed and I appreciate all your wonderful tips. Thank you!

I was wondering if you have used the Sholdit Scarf as a security precaution? Thinking about adding one to my packing list as I’ll need a cute infinity scarf for the trip.

Hi Valeria, that’s great to hear! You’ll have such a much better experience packing light I promise 🙂 I haven’t personally used the scarf myself as I only stash my cash in the bra stash or money pouch. It’s served me well for almost 6 years of travel!

Thanks Alex!

no problem 🙂

I have looked into the anti-theft shoulder bags….and they are beyond ugly. What a shame.

Unfortunately, it seems as if much of the travel gear is less than attractive…I prefer to travel with a regular soft leather bag and keep my cash in my bra stash 😉 It’s worked for me for 6 years!

Also, be sure you know what to do if you lose your passport! http://travelmoreroads.com/what-to-do-if-you-lose-your-passport/

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Photo of hamas terrorists parading shani louk’s body wins top award, sparking outrage.

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A sickening image of Hamas terrorists parading a slain woman’s near-naked body through the streets of Gaza has been awarded a prestigious photo-of-the-year prize — sparking fierce outrage from those who slammed the win as “an outrageous desecration of Jewish life.”

The grim photo featuring Shani Louk’s body was among a collection of 20 images that helped the Associated Press secure first place in one of the Pictures of the Year International award categories earlier this month.

The awards, which are run by the Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute at the Missouri School of Journalism, are self-described as being the world’s oldest photojournalism competition.

News of the AP’s win in the “Team Picture Story of the Year” category prompted widespread backlash on social media, with some slamming the accolade and the use of Louk’s image as an “outrageous desecration of Jewish life.”

“I am DISGUSTED, SHOCKED and ENRAGED that this @AP image of a murdered Shani Louk from October 7th was given picture of the year,” one social media user posted on X. “This is the value of Israeli women to you?”

“This is just wrong and sick,” another user raged of the award.

Louk, a 23-year-old German Israeli tattoo artist, was among the scores of innocent music festival-goers taken hostage when Hamas terrorists carried out its deadly Oct. 7 onslaught.

She quickly became one of the  faces of the war after the shocking images of her lifeless body on the back of pickup truck started going viral.

Israeli authorities later confirmed the young woman had tragically been beheaded by her captors.

In announcing the AP’s win, the award organizers posted the unblurred image of Louk’s lifeless body on its Instagram page.

The photo, though, appears to have since been deleted in the wake of the backlash.

As the outrage over the AP’s award win mounted on social media, some users argued the competition was dishonoring Louk’s memory by dredging up the photo.

“The family of Oct 7 victim Shani Louk want her to be remembered alive & smiling. One of the world’s biggest photojournalism prizes, ran by @RJI, trampled on their wishes, awarding an @AP photo of her mutilated body,” one user wrote on X.

Another tweeted: “This is how we choose to remember the beautiful Shani Louk. We will not allow her memory to be trampled by the inhuman thugs celebrating the AP photo of her tragic murder.”

Meanwhile, many took aim at Ali Mahmud, the freelance photojournalist who snapped the image, arguing he shouldn’t be celebrated over such a tragedy.

“He is being celebrated for taking this photo of murder-rapist-terrorists with the brutalized and contorted body of Shani Louk,” one X user noted.

Pictures of the Year International organizers didn’t immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.

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March 23, 2024 Shooting at Moscow concert venue leaves over 130 dead

By Chris Lau, Andrew Raine , Catherine Nicholls, Issy Ronald, Lauren Said-Moorhouse and Tori B. Powell , CNN

Our live coverage of the Moscow concert venue shooting has moved here.

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un sends condolences to Russia’s Putin over deadly Moscow attack

From CNN’s Sophie Jeong and Manveena Suri

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has offered his condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin following the deadly concert attack in Moscow, state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Sunday.

Kim “expressed deep condolences and sympathy” to Putin, the Russian people, the victims and their families on the news of heavy casualties caused by a “large-scale terrorist attack in (the) Moscow region,” KCNA reported.

North Korea opposes “all sorts of terrorism and nothing can justify the heinous terrorism threatening human life,” Kim said in the KCNA report. “Our people regard the misfortune and sorrow of the friendly Russian people as their own pain.”

ISIS releases graphic video they claim shows Russia concert hall attack

From CNN's Kareem El Damanhoury and Paul Murphy

ISIS-affiliated news agency Amaq released a graphic video on Saturday that purports to show Friday’s attack at a concert hall in suburban Moscow recorded by one of the attackers, suggesting the perpetrators had a direct link to ISIS in order to be able to send the video.

CNN has geolocated it to the concert hall and notes that its identifying metadata has been erased.

The video, which is about 90 seconds long, shows four attackers with their faces blurred and voices distorted in what appears to be the Crocus City Hall complex.

The video shows one attacker signaling to another gunman, who then walks past a door where people are hiding and opens fire on them.

Bodies and blood can be seen on the floor, with fire raging at a distance.

The video also shows one of the attackers slitting the throat of a man lying on his back.

The video ends with the four attackers walking away inside the building as smoke can be seen at a distance.

On Friday, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack, according to a short statement published by Amaq.

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested Ukraine was behind the attack, stating the perpetrators had “tried to hide and moved towards Ukraine, where, according to preliminary data, a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the border.”

Ukraine has vehemently denied any connection to Friday's attack.

Company that owns Crocus City Hall venue calls attack a "monstrous tragedy"

From CNN's Masha Angelova

The Russian company Crocus International, which owns Crocus City Hall, expressed its deep condolences in a statement Sunday to the victims of the terrorist attack at the concert hall in the Moscow region Friday, which left more than 130 people dead.

"Together with the whole of Russia, we mourn the dead and hope for a speedy recovery of those who’ve suffered in this monstrous tragedy," the company said. "In these difficult days, we are doing and will do everything possible to help the authorities and special services with their difficult work, and together with the whole country help victims of the terrorist attack."

The statement thanked concert-goers, partners and artists for their support and assistance.

"Special thanks to the concert hall team, who acted professionally, clearly, and heroically in a crisis situation, and thanks to this, managed to save most of the guests and employees who were in Crocus City Hall that evening," it continued.

White House says there was "no Ukrainian involvement whatsoever" in Moscow region onslaught

From CNN's Natasha Bertrand and Samantha Waldenberg

US Vice President Kamala Harris and the White House National Security Council said there is no evidence that Ukraine is behind the attack at a concert hall near Moscow.

“There is no, whatsoever, any evidence — and in fact, what we know to be the case is that ISIS-K is actually, by all accounts, responsible for what happened,” Harris said in an interview with ABC News. “What has happened is an act of terrorism and the number of people who've been killed is obviously a tragedy and we should all send our condolences to those families."

National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said:

"In early March, the US government shared information with Russia about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow. We also issued a public advisory to Americans in Russia on March 7. ISIS bears sole responsibility for this attack. There was no Ukrainian involvement whatsoever."

US had warned Russia ISIS was determined to attack | CNN

Here's what you should know about the moscow area concert venue shooting.

From CNN staff

A Friday night attack at Crocus City Hall, a popular concert venue complex near Moscow, left more than 130 people killed and even more wounded after assailants stormed the venue with guns and incendiary devices. ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack, without providing evidence.

Four suspects involved in the attack were detained in the Bryansk region and taken to Moscow, where they are now in the custody of Russia's Investigative Committee, Russian state media TASS reported Saturday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said "miserable" Russian President Vladimir Putin waited   overnight before publicly addressing Russians, only to accuse   Ukraine of having a hand in the terror attack at a concert hall near Moscow.

Here are other headlines you should know:

• More on the attack: According to the interior ministry, “all terrorists detained in the Bryansk region are foreign citizens ,” Russian state media reported. RIA Novosti published on Telegram the purported confession of one of the apprehended men. CNN cannot independently verify the RIA Novosti report or the statements made by the alleged attacker, which may have been made under duress.
• Ukraine vehemently denies any connection: Defense Intelligence of Ukraine spokesperson Andrii Yusov firmly denied his country had anything to do with the terror attack. Earlier Saturday, Putin  told the Russian people  that the perpetrators had “tried to hide and moved towards Ukraine, where, according to preliminary data, a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the border." A handful of Russian officials have suggested  without evidence  that Ukraine may have been involved in the attack as well.
• Global reactions: Leaders around the world — such as the French, Israeli and Turkish presidents — have expressed their condolences and condemnation of the onslaught. The United States “ strongly condemns ” the shooting, according to the White House and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also denounced the attack , stressing that ISIS is a significant global threat at a news conference Saturday.
• Belarus claims it thwarted suspects: Belarusian special services helped Russia prevent the "terrorists" who allegedly carried out the deadly attack from escaping across the border Friday night, the country's ambassador in Moscow said.
• Estimated damage total: The total estimated damage to the Moscow region's Crocus City Hall after Friday's terror attack is between 9.5-11.4 billion rubles, or approximately $103-124 million, according to a shopping union vice president, as reported by Russian state media RIA Novosti.

Zelensky accuses Putin of trying to blame concert hall attack on Ukraine

From CNN's Maria Kostenko

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said "miserable" Russian President Vladimir Putin waited overnight before publicly addressing Russians, only to accuse Ukraine of having a hand in the terror attack at a concert hall near Moscow.

On Saturday, Putin told the Russian people that the perpetrators of the Crocus City Hall attack had “tried to hide and moved towards Ukraine, where, according to preliminary data, a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the border.”

Zelensky and several Ukrainian officials have vehemently denied Ukraine has any kind of involvement in the attack.

In his nightly address, Zelensky also said that Russians "have come to Ukraine, burn our cities – and try to blame Ukraine."

Zelensky added that if the Russian people do "not ask any questions to their security and intelligence agencies, then Putin will try to turn such a situation to his personal advantage again."

More background: The terror group ISIS claimed responsibility for Russia's attack, according to a short statement published by ISIS-affiliated news agency Amaq on Telegram Friday. ISIS has not provided evidence to support the claim.

Earlier this week, Putin had dismissed warnings by the US embassy that there could be terrorist attacks on large groups, telling the Federal Security Service (FSB) that the embassy warnings were "provocative" and "outright blackmail."

White House "strongly condemns" Moscow region terror attack

From CNN’s Samantha Waldenberg

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement Saturday that the United States “strongly condemns” the terrorist attack at a concert venue complex near Moscow that left at least 133 people dead.

She added that ISIS, which has claimed responsibility for the attack without providing evidence, is a “common terrorist enemy that must be defeated everywhere.”

“We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones and to those who were injured or affected by these unconscionable attacks against innocent civilians," Jean-Pierre said in a statement issued by the White House. "ISIS is a common terrorist enemy that must be defeated everywhere."

4 suspects in Friday's attack are being questioned by Russian investigators, state media reports

Four suspects in Friday's terrorist attack on Crocus City Hall were detained in the Bryansk region and taken to Moscow, where they are now in the custody of Russia's Investigative Committee, Russian state media TASS reported Saturday.

The suspects were brought in two prisoner transport vehicles, which are still in the courtyard of the committee, a TASS correspondent reported. This indicates that the suspects are being interrogated and the investigation is ongoing, according to TASS.

In the coming days, investigators are expected to file a court motion asking for imprisonment as the chosen preventative measure. All four suspects face life imprisonment, TASS reports.

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Lisa's journalism career spans two decades, and she currently serves as the Americas Day Editor for the Global News Desk. She played a pivotal role in tracking the COVID pandemic and leading initiatives in speed, headline writing and multimedia. She has worked closely with the finance and company news teams on major stories, such as the departures of Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and significant developments at Apple, Alphabet, Facebook and Tesla. Her dedication and hard work have been recognized with the 2010 Desk Editor of the Year award and a Journalist of the Year nomination in 2020. Lisa is passionate about visual and long-form storytelling. She holds a degree in both psychology and journalism from Penn State University.

South Africa bus crash kills 45 Easter pilgrims, Transport Ministry says

A bus crash in South Africa's northern province of Limpopo resulted in 45 deaths and one serious injury, South Africa's Department of Transport said on Thursday.

Russian forces attacked infrastructure sites early on Friday in Kamianske district near the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro and at least one person was injured, the regional governor said.

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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

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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!

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!

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!

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

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

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

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

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!

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 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 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!

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!

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!

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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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!

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!

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 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!

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!

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!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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 .

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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)

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

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

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

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

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!

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!

Alya and Campbell

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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