anti theft travel crossbody bag

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The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel, Built With Storage And Style

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Roomy enough to carry everyday essentials, the best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your suitcase around. We researched the best crossbody bags for travel that offer both storage and style and selected the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe as our top pick. We also found other great options for different travel styles, like a spacious crescent bag for beach trips and a sleek sling bag for organization.

The best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your ... [+] suitcase around.

A solid crossbody bag is versatile and provides convenient hands-free storage for every situation. This 4-in-1 leather bag from Lo & Sons stylishly transitions from day to night, while Lululemon’s popular Everywhere Belt Bag can be worn on the hip or across the body. Meanwhile, active travelers will get great use out of the Nomatic Navigator Sling , which features a water bottle holder and a stabilizer strap. Below, the best crossbody bags for travel in a variety of price points, styles and materials.

• Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall: MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe
• Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Organization: Aer Day Sling 3
• Best Crossbody Bag For Parents: Hobo Sheila Large Satchel
• Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips: Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips: Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L
• Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel: Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather
• Best Belt Bag For Travel: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1 L
• Best Crossbody Bag For Men: Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack
• Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Crossbody

Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall

Lightweight, stylish storage, mz wallace small sutton deluxe.

Dimensions: 9.8 × 5.5 × 10.20 inches | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Materials: Recycled oxford (polyester, nylon), leather

With a handy key ring strap and five interior pockets, this versatile bag is perfect for staying organized during travel. It can be worn as a crossbody or top handle tote and its water-resistant oxford fabric won’t weigh you down on your journey. There’s an easy-to-adjust nylon strap for a customized fit and the detachable interior pouch is big enough to hold a pair of shoes, plus the ample pockets provide plenty of space for your phone, keys, tickets and more. It weighs only a pound but can fit a surprising amount of items, plus its plush fabric folds down for packing.

Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel

Security features plus many pockets, travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Materials: Polyester, nylon

Travelon’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag packs an impressive punch for being so small. Its six pockets keep everything where you need it—including an RFID-blocking passport and card interior organizer—while a tethered key caddy with an LED light eliminates that dreaded “can’t-find-it-in-my-bag” feeling. The 5-Point Anti-Theft security system protects against theft threats with slash-resistant fabric, lockable straps and secure zipper pulls. Not only will you feel safe wearing this bag, but thanks to its 13 colors and prints, you’ll also look stylish anywhere your trip may take you.

Best Crossbody Bag For Organization

A compact sling bag with room to spare, aer day sling 3.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 6 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.8 pounds | Materials: Cordura nylon

With a ballistic nylon exterior and a unique design that zips open for easy access, Aer’s Day Sling 3 is one of the more durable crossbody options out there. It has a 3L capacity that fits a surprising amount of items and its 8 pockets ensure everything stays in its place. There are multiple loops for strapping onto your luggage or storage and a handy front pocket with a key leash and cool security features like a secret back pocket. There’s also a sneaky Fidlock clasp that makes it harder for a pickpocket to snatch your bag.

Best Crossbody Bag For Parents

Extra space and storage for the whole family, hobo sheila large satchel.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 14 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Materials: Raffia, leather

For parents or travelers who need to tote a lot of stuff on the go, a larger bag might be in order. Hobo’s Sheila Large Satchel offers nice organizational features and high style points. It’s made of a lightweight woven raffia with leather trim for added durability, plus its six interior pockets, key lanyard and accessible side exterior pocket are perfect for storing smaller items you may need throughout the day. Its main compartment is quite roomy, easily fitting a laptop, kid’s tablet, diaper wipes, snacks, toys, a backup outfit and more. The flexibility of its 3-in-1 styling really stands out—the adjustable strap can be worn as a crossbody, shortened for a shoulder bag or simply removed to transform into a classy top handle bag for a night out after the kiddos go to sleep.

Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips

Large and easy to wear for sandy days in the sun.

Urban Outfitters

Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag

Dimensions: 10.5 × 19.5 × 5.25 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: 100% recycled nylon

A beach bag calls for some pretty specific features: it needs to be durable and water-resistant, it should be big enough to hold bulky towels and ideally, it has a simple shape so sand won’t get lodged in the nooks and crannies. After much research, the Baggu Crescent Bag fits the bill. Its adjustable strap can be worn across the chest or as a tighter-fitting shoulder bag, the large size is roomy enough for a couple towels and a change of clothes and the zippered interior pocket keeps your wallet and keys secure. The quick-drying ripstop nylon is not only recycled, it’s also durable enough to withstand the windiest—and wettest—of beach days. Consider adding a few of Baggu’s fun printed flat pouches for additional organization.

Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips

A durable sling with no detail spared, nomatic navigator sling 6l.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% polyester

Whether you’re hiking, biking or riding the metro, the Navigator Sling from Nomatic offers durability, storage and some impressive features. There’s a water bottle holder that zips away when not in use, a molded EVA back panel for wearable comfort and breathability, a tamper-resistant zipper and tech features like built-in tablet storage, an RFID-blocking pocket for your cards and a cord-pass through for charging your devices in different pockets. If you’re running or moving around a lot, there’s also a stabilizer strap that clips on to keep the sling even more secure to your body. Unlike some sling styles, this bag has multiple zippered storage compartments, the main one opening extra wide for easier access.

Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel

Four ways to wear it.

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather

Dimensions: 5.6 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Materials: Nappa, Saffiano or cactus leather

When you’re on the go, sometimes the last thing you want is to ruin the flow of the day by making a pit stop at the hotel to change out a bag before dinner. We like the Lo & Sons Waverley for its inventive versatility that adapts to your needs. The minimal leather design has an adjustable strap that can be worn 4 ways: as a hands-free belt bag, a longer crossbody, a casual shoulder bag or an elevated clutch with (or without) a wristlet. The main compartment is large enough for the essentials and the zippered inner pocket keeps smaller items secure no matter where your day—or night—takes you.

Best Belt Bag For Travel

Hands-free storage in a slim profile, lululemon everywhere belt bag 1 l.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester

Over 22,500 reviewers agree: the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is sleek, lightweight and versatile enough to be worn just about anywhere your travels take you. It has a water-repellant nylon exterior and one main compartment, three mesh interior pockets for added organization and a back zipper for your phone or cards. Its adjustable strap can tighten for comfortable wearing around your waist or it can be extended as a crossbody sling. With a 1L capacity, this bag is definitely on the smaller side, so you might want to consider their larger 2L size if you need more space.

Best Crossbody Bag For Men

Rugged looks for when you're on the go, cotopaxi coso 2l hip pack.

Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 3 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester

This easy-wearing hip pack from Cotopaxi combines an urban rugged look with smart storage solutions. The recycled nylon exterior is durable with a matte TPU coating, making it water-resistant and easy to clean, while a fleece interior pocket stores your phone or other small devices without any scratch risk. There’s multiple grab handles for easy carrying, secure pockets for smaller items and in addition to the main zippered compartment, the exterior front flap pocket can store a rolled-up lightweight jacket when you get warm on the go. G-hooks on both sides can be adjusted for customized storage and it can be comfortably worn as a crossbody on the front or back, or around the waist as a belt bag.

Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel

Three storage sections in a minimal package, quince italian leather triple compartment crossbody.

Dimensions: 7.8 x 9.5 x 3 inches | Weight: 1.54 pounds | Materials: Leather

Quince’s smooth Italian leather crossbody might look simple from the outside, but there’s actually a lot of unexpected storage inside. The bag has three main compartments—two zippered sections flanking one open area that closes with snaps—plus three internal zippered pockets to take your organization a step further. It also comes with two detachable straps that allow for crossbody or wristlet wear. Quince is known for its fair prices and ethical manufacturing process, and if that’s not impressive enough, the brand also offers a generous 365-day return policy.

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The 10 best cooling pillows to help relieve hot sleepers and end night sweats, why trust forbes vetted.

Our team at Forbes Vetted is comprised of seasoned editors, writers and researchers who not only love travel, but love to shop. We approach all of our travel product roundups with a discerning eye, focusing on quality, value and more, taking the time to assess products so you don’t have to. From the best luggage locks to the best carry-on backpacks , we spend countless hours researching, vetting and testing travel products to bring you the best of what’s on the market so you can make smart and informed shopping decisions for that next big trip or cruise . This story was written by contributor Becky Eaton , who regularly writes fashion, accessory and travel product guides for Forbes Vetted.

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Top 10 anti-theft crossbody bags, backpacks and accessories that stop pickpockets

Here at TPG, we aren't fearmongers. We steadfastly believe that travel brings the world just a little bit closer together.

That being said, we do get a lot of questions about how to thwart pickpockets in popular vacation destinations around the world. No matter what big city you may visit — here in the U.S. or beyond — someone may want to part you from your wallet, cellphone, passport or other valuables. Don't make it easy!

With one of the busiest summer travel seasons upon us, be aware of your surroundings and select a few travel accessories that will give you an extra layer of protection — and peace of mind — as you travel the globe.

Here are several TPG-approved anti-theft crossbody bags, backpacks and accessories to slow down and stop thieves from taking your personal items.

Crossbody bags

Security experts say that crossbody handbags are a good bet since you can easily keep an eye on your belongings. With these bags, your items are safely secured to the front of you or your side via bag straps that go all the way around your body. The design is both practical and comfortable, stopping passersby from yanking your bag off your shoulder or out of your hand as you're out and about for hours on end.

To find the right crossbody bag for protecting your items, look for a bag that has a wire threaded through the straps (so they can't easily be cut) and a steel mesh liner between layers of fabric (so the bag is slash-proof). Pockets that block radio-frequency identification, which scammers can use to access your credit cards, passport and other forms of ID, are also a must. Locking zippers are essential, too, as they make it harder for someone to quickly retrieve items stored inside.

While several brands make anti-theft bags, popular manufacturers include Travelon and Pacsafe. Both of these companies prioritize quality, appearance and functionality when producing their bags.

This particular Travelon bag is a solid option for frequent travelers, as it's compact enough to fit the essentials without adding bulk. I've had it for about a year now and really like it for specific uses: transiting through an airport when I'm also wearing a backpack, visiting a museum where larger bags are not permitted, heading to dinner and going on a half-day tour that doesn't require lugging bigger items.

While this bag, which measures 8.5 inches by 7 inches by 2 inches, can fit the items I always have on me — two pairs of glasses, my iPhone, a Vera Bradley ID/card wallet, two passports, keys, a pen and a pill case — it won't accommodate much more. Still, it has all the important anti-theft features to look for, including slash-proof steel mesh sandwiched between the fabric layers, a locking main compartment zipper and a cut-proof, wire-reinforced strap that has a locking carabiner so you can thread your bag through a post, chair or table leg to prevent someone from snatching it while passing by.

On the outside, you'll find a front flap with a magnetic snap closure. I usually stash any sightseeing tickets or papers I need in there so they're easy to access. Behind the front flap sits a slip-in pocket that comfortably fits an iPhone. There's also a zippered back pocket that's ideal for storing a few dollars so you don't need to unlock and access your wallet inside when buying a drink or something small.

Inside the bag, you'll notice a main compartment with three RFID-blocking credit card slots and a passport pocket. Additionally, there are an internal zippered pocket and an attached key ring loop with an LED. The latter comes in handy for securing items like my pill case.

If appearance is important to you, odds are you'll appreciate that this bag is available in four colors. Choose from neutral hues like black, smoke (dark gray) and sable (tan), or go for a deep pop of color with the ocean (navy blue) option.

At 8 inches by 10.5 inches by 2 inches, this bag is a little roomier than its sister bag, the Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Quilted Slim Pouch . Like the Signature Quilted Slim Pouch, the Classic Small East/West Crossbody doesn't have any side pockets to store water bottles or umbrellas. However, its wider design makes it possible to store select miniature umbrellas inside.

This bag has all the same anti-theft features previously mentioned. There are locking zippered pockets on the front and back, plus a main compartment (also with a locking zipper) that has RFID-blocking credit card slots and a passport pocket. The interior also has a pocket for a phone and a tethered key ring with an LED.

Those who love bolder colors will like that this Travelon option comes in a few nontraditional hues, including spruce (deep green), purple and midnight (dark blue). Neutrals like black and nutmeg (brown) are available as well. If you prefer a textured fabric, opt for the quilted version in the wine rose, geo sunflower or painted floral pattern.

During Amazon's Prime Day sale, you can get this bag for abut $35 versus the usual $49 retail price.

If you're looking for a large bag with two zippered, mesh side pockets that can comfortably fit water bottles, umbrellas or sunglasses, the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger could be the right pick. It has all the same anti-theft features noted in the above bags but in a more spacious design.

Measuring 12.5 inches by 9 inches by 3.5 inches, this larger option from Travelon has a magnetic flap closure in the front that hides a locking zippered pocket. There's also a back pocket with a locking zipper closure that reveals four RFID-blocking credit card slots, a larger slot, a pen loop and a removable key clip with an LED when opened. Four wall pockets and an additional pen loop are tucked within the main compartment.

Color options range from solids like black, midnight blue and nutmeg to patterns like black with white stripes, black with white flowers and AV stripe (multicolor).

Pacsafe says it's the original anti-theft bag brand, and all its products — including the Metrosafe LS200 Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag — come to the table with all the features you seek. Security details include a cut-proof strap with a TurnNLock security hook so you can attach the bag to a chair or table for additional protection, a slash-resistant lightweight steel mesh layer, RFID-blocking pockets and locking zippers.

While the high price tag is a drawback, most reviewers love this bag, especially its locking zippers. Pacsafe's locking zippers are widely considered the safest in the business, as they don't unfasten as easily as those from Travelon (which act more like clips). If you're nimble with good dexterity, this shouldn't be a problem, though the extra effort required to open the zippers may make them difficult for those with arthritis or other hand-related health issues.

Featuring Econyl regenerated nylon, a product made from recycled materials like fishing nets and plastics found in the ocean, this bag is a great environmentally friendly option for those who need to store various items on the go.

Measuring 11.4 inches by 9.3 inches by 2.8 inches, the bag comes with a handle at the top for easy grabbing, as well as a wide shoulder strap, a zippered back pocket and two side pockets with snaps for smaller water bottles, umbrellas or sunglasses. Inside, you'll find an RFID-blocking zippered pocket and a padded sleeve for storing an 11-inch tablet.

Color options are limited, but both are ideal for coordinating with various outfits. You can choose between black and ocean blue.

Anti-theft backpacks have many of the same attributes that the best anti-theft crossbody bags have: cut-proof straps, slash-resistant fabric, RFID-blocking pockets and secure zippers. The main difference between the two is that the backpack design keeps your items safely stored on your back instead of in front of you or on your side.

There are many brands that offer travel backpacks , but Nomatic, Baggallini and Travelon stand out when it comes to anti-theft backpacks. These traveler-approved manufacturers take great strides to ensure the backpacks they offer are not only harder to steal but also stylish, well made and practical.

If you're more concerned with keeping your things safe during airport, train or bus transit, consider the water-resistant Nomatic Travel Pack. Available in 14- and 20-liter sizes that weigh 3.5 pounds and 4.2 pounds, respectively, this bag has backpack-style straps, handles similar to those on carry-on bags and luggage trolley sleeves.

Unlike most backpacks, the Nomatic Travel Pack opens like a traditional carry-on for easy packing. It also has a backpack-style zippered pocket on the front with plenty of interior pockets, including a lockable RFID-blocking security pocket, multiple mesh zipper pockets and a notebook pocket. The side pockets are large enough to fit bottles up to 3.5 inches in diameter.

Noteworthy details include the zipper expansion feature, which lets you add up to 10 liters of extra space so you can fit souvenirs and other items you pick up during your travels, and the hidden back pocket, which is capable of fitting a 16-inch laptop. There are cord pass-through holes in each compartment, too, so you can charge your devices or easily access your wired earbuds.

Whether you choose the smaller 14-liter bag (which is 17.5 inches by 11 inches by 5.5 inches, making it small enough to pass as a personal item on airplanes) or the larger 20-liter bag (which measures 18.5 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches), know that there is only one color available: black.

This backpack from Baggallini acts more like a purse than a traditional backpack you use for storing everything you own, as it only measures 13 inches by 10 inches by 3.5 inches. But if you don't mind the smaller capacity that may not fit your laptop, odds are you'll like this fashionable alternative to standard anti-theft backpacks.

Safety features include slash-resistant panels, cable-reinforced straps, sleek locking zippers on the front pockets and an RFID-blocking pocket for credit cards. The back of the bag features another zippered pocket that opens to reveal four more credit card slots and two interior zippered pockets. There are also two side pockets designed for water bottles, umbrellas and other items.

Made with a lightweight, water-resistant material, the Securtex Anti-Theft Vacation Backpack is one of the lightest options available, weighing only 1.1 pounds.

As for colors, you'll have several options that go beyond the standard shade of black commonly found on travel bags. In addition to black, you can purchase the bag in charcoal, pacific (deep blue), ruby red or portobello (beige/brown). Two dark prints — black cheetah and midnight blossom — are available as well.

Few backpacks come with a wide zippered pocket at the top like the one you'll have with this Travelon bag . From a bird's-eye perspective, it lets you easily see what's in the bag while it's standing upright.

The zippered front pocket is spacious, revealing a pocket for your phone, a tethered key ring clip with an LED, and RFID-blocking pockets for three credit cards and a passport or two. When unzipped, the front pouch gussets extend so you can pack thicker items like a pocket-size guidebook in there as well.

The main part of the bag has a section for an iPad or tablet, plus a second larger compartment and a small open pocket. One side has a pocket for a water bottle or umbrella, while the other has a zipper compartment that reveals a mesh pocket.

Like Travelon's crossbody bags, this backpack has adjustable straps that are cut-proof. Additionally, every compartment is lockable and all four sides feature slash-resistant mesh lining, adding extra layers of security while you're traveling with your bag.

Available colors are similar to what you'll find for other Travelon bags, too. You'll have three solid choices — black, midnight and nutmeg — in addition to prints like black with white flowers, black with white stripes and geo tile.

Related: 5 best backpacks for every travel style

Accessories

For some, a crossbody bag or backpack will suffice for travels near and far. However, traveling with smaller anti-theft accessories like money belts and neck wallets may be the way to go when you have a lot of items in tow. These accessories let you safely store credit cards, cash, passports and more beneath your clothes so pickpockets can't grab them on the fly.

You'll find various brands selling anti-theft accessories, but some of the most popular manufacturers include Alpha Keeper, Venture 4th and Zero Grid. Travelers favor these brands due to their safety features, high quality and comfortable, breathable designs.

This Alpha Keeper money belt works great for various vacations, especially ones that include visits to places that require checking larger bags before entering, such as museums. It's a hassle-free option for meals, too, as you can dine out without having to constantly keep an eye on a purse or wallet.

Despite the product description saying the money belt fits waists from 25 to 45 inches, it actually stretches to 55 inches, making it a terrific option for all kinds of travelers, including those who are plus size. If your shirt isn't long enough to fully cover the money belt, you can wear it outside your clothes or tucked into your pants.

The wallet, which is 10.7 inches by 5.3 inches, is made of ripstop nylon and a triple layer of fabric that blocks RFID. It has two zippered compartments on the front, the smaller of which is ideal for storing a few credit cards, cash or sightseeing tickets; behind the larger pocket, you can fit three passports, a smartphone, additional credit cards, cash and more. There is also a breathable mesh back pocket, though keep in mind that this pocket does not block RFID.

Designed for both men and women, Alpha Keeper's money belt is available in four neutral colors: black, brown, beige and gray.

If you don't like the idea of wearing a money belt under your clothes, a neck wallet is another option. Just load it with your valuables before placing it around your neck. To keep it from dangling and flopping as you move from point A to point B, tuck it inside your clothes.

Venture 4th's version of a neck wallet has several features that make it ideal for safely storing your travel documents, credit cards and cash. The pouch, which measures 8 inches by 5.5 inches, is made of lightweight ripstop nylon material, and the front has a clear window where you can place your ID, your travel insurance card or another small document. Two vertical zippered pockets on the front are good places to stash your earbuds, tickets or other small items.

At the top is a velcro flap that hides two larger compartments: one that's just the right size for your phone and another that can fit passports, money and other documents. The exterior back panel is made from breathable mesh fabric.

One downside to this neck wallet is that the strap is not cut-proof. However, it is made from a soft material with a toggle to adjust its length, giving you the flexibility to tweak where it sits so it's fully hidden under your clothes.

Available colors are all neutrals, though you'll find more options than other brands offer. Pick from black, pure black, beige, brown, gray, green, navy blue and silver.

Not all money belts are designed for frequent use. If you're more concerned with hiding important items like spare cash or an emergency credit card, then this option from Zero Grid may work well for you.

Measuring 38 inches by 1.5 inches, this travel security belt has a zippered compartment that's hidden inside the belt. To access its contents, you need to take it off to expose the pocket.

Because of the narrow design, you can't use this twist on a traditional money belt to store wider items like passports. However, it could work well for a photocopy of your passport; you'll just need to fold the photocopy first so it fits. The same is true for any cash you wish to hide within it.

This belt is approved by the Transportation Security Administration, meaning you can wear it while transiting through airports. Some reviewers were particularly impressed with the fact that it didn't set off the alarm when they were going through airport scanners.

Note that this belt only comes in one color: black. Perhaps the lack of different hues is a good thing, as the standard black color prevents the belt from sticking out while it's being worn.

Best Anti-Theft Purse For Travel: My Top 9 Travel Bag Picks

The best anti-theft purse is the one that foils pickpockets every time.

And if I’d had one of these clever items when I visited Beijing, I wouldn’t have looked like such an idiot… or worse, a criminal.

That’s exactly how I felt as I tried to convince embassy officials to  please  let me in to get a new passport – because mine had been stolen, along with my money.

But I didn’t have a pickpocket-proof purse, and I had committed the cardinal sin of travel: I had put my passport into an unsecured daypack.

Believe me, this is the kind of mistake you only make once, and I’d love to make sure you don’t have to make it at all!

So I now have not one, but  several  of the best anti-theft travel bags on the market. I never travel without one. And yes, my passport is now snugly secure.

Today I want to focus on day bags designed to  ward off pickpockets . I’ve been testing several of these during my travels and to paraphrase the well-known ad, I would ‘never leave home without one’.

There are two big names in anti-theft travel bags for women: PacSafe and Travelon. The last time I searched for “PacSafe” and “Travelon” on Amazon I found hundreds of results for these brands. While the two giants dominate the market, I’ve also looked at others and have added those further down this page.

These  travel accessories  range from tiny clutches to roomy purses and every color under the sun, so try to narrow down your choices before you shop by asking yourself:

• Are color and style important to you?
• Do you need something ultralight because you have back issues or is heavy fine?
• What do you plan to carry – just a wallet and phone or do you need space for your tablet, paperback book, glasses, keys, tissues, pens and a notebook for quick notes, a small camera… you get the picture!
• Will you be heading into the rainy season? The material could be an issue.
• Do you need oodles of pockets or do you like to have it all mixed up at the bottom of your purse?

Make sure you answer some of these questions before you shop!

Meantime, though, here’s a comparison chart for my top 9 bags. 

Best anti-theft crossbody bag: comparison table

What should i look for in the best anti-theft bags.

Each bag will be different, but each will have specific anti-theft properties that make them attractive.

The best crossbody bags should have as many of these characteristics as possible:

• Slash-resistant or slash-proof fabric (typically wire mesh)
• Strong fabric (canvas, nylon)
• Anti-slash straps (usually wire-reinforced)
• Locking zippers or closures OR hidden zippers
• RFID blocking pockets /compartments
• Multiple interior pockets with separate closures (like zippers)
• Non-flashy design or colors (to blend in rather than attract attention)
• Compact enough to be worn under a cardigan, jacket even a large pashmina, making it hard for thieves to spot.

Daypacks  are also good for use as travel purses, but under certain conditions:

• That they are designed specifically to thwart thieves
• That you wear them on your chest instead of your back (I do dislike that but that’s my personal bias) 
• That you avoid putting anything of value in exterior or unlocked pockets.

Some find that the best anti-theft backpack purse is the one that is versatile enough to act as both a backpack and a handbag in different situations.

Standard Pacsafe purse features

Every Pacsafe bag (or most) shares a few features that set the brand apart from others:

• Stainless steel wire mesh in fabric and wire-reinforced straps
• Locking clips and zippers, turn and lock security hooks.  
• RFID blocking pockets and compartments

My three most highly rated Pacsafe bags are described below.

• Cool detachable shoulder strap (adjusttable, of course) allows you to lock it to something solid while you go to the counter to pay your bill.
• There’s no way anyone is going to cut through the steel mesh surrounding this pack.
• Interlocking zippers make it difficult for thieves to reach into your backpack.
• Like all Pacsafe products, lots of pockets, inside and outside.
• Perfect as a daypack but equally useful as a weekender.
• Water-resistant, of course, you won’t need to fear the r

• Perfect if you want to go out in the evening without returning to your room to change bags. This one converts from a day bag to an evening purse.
• Metal-reinforced strap can be locked to anything - a radiator or table.
• Great if you’re out for the day - will fit your phone, camera, cash and cards, papers, keys and the like.
• Plenty of pockets, including an RFID blocking inside one.
• Plenty of pockets, including an RFID blocking inside on

• One of Pacsafe’s all-time classics. You’ll put in on and forget it’s even there, it’s THAT comfortable.
• Lightweight steel mesh is embedded in the fabric, which makes this purse virtually thief-proof.
• No one will unhook it without your knowing - you can lock the strap in place.
• Will fit your iPad Mini in its padded sleeve.

Standard Travelon purse features

Most Travelon bags are made to foil pickpockets and tend to share certain characteristics:

• Slash-resistant mesh body panels and shoulder straps
• RFID blocking pockets
• Locking zippers and compartments

These two are among the most highly rated Travelon handbags by women who travel with them.

• It’s comfortable enough to wear all day.
• This is the right purse if all you want to carry are your essentials - a large iPhone, identification, even a camera.
• Slip your identification into the main RFID compartment for a worry-free day.
• You can slip your phone into the outside drop pocket.
• A small LED light is included to help you find what you’re looking for ins

• This is definitely larger than the bag above, if you need to carry more with you.
• It includes inside space for a water bottle or umbrella.
• Plenty of space inside for everything else, including the little iconic LED light so you can find everything.
• The external zippered compartments are convenient if, like me, you’re always reaching for something in your purse.
• This purse has a more designed look than your average travel purse, if you’re looking for something a bit more stylish.
• Of course it has all the usual safety features, from locking zippers to RFID pock

Pacsafe vs Travelon: who wins?

Let’s talk Travelon vs PacSafe. Both PacSafe and Travelon offer a wide range of bag styles from compact backpacks, to wallets, to purses. Both incorporate great anti-theft features like slash-proof fabric/straps, RFID-blocking pockets and ways to lock zippers and closures. Both have highly-rated bags that people swear by.

So what are the biggest differences between PacSafe and Travelon? Price, color options, and overall style.

Pros and cons of Pacsafe

In general, PacSafe bags are more expensive than bags of similar quality (often by $20 or more, depending on the sales and bag in question), and they come with fewer color options. There are exceptions, of course, but PacSafe tends to put safety and practicality before fashion in their bag designs. 

In this case, safe really does equal boring, which can be great if your main priority is to transport your things securely and not be noticed. They are also sturdy and buying one means you may have to stick with it for a long time because it won’t wear out.

✔ Durable and practical ✔ Will not draw unnecessary attention ✔ Highly-rated and trusted by travelers

✖ More expensive than other bags of equal quality ✖ Fewer color choices/More “boring” designs

Pros and cons of Travelon

Travelon isn’t a designer purse but the brand does have a range of handbags with quaint stitching, stylish fasteners, and bolder color choices. 

If you’re budget-conscious, Travelon bags cost less overall. That said, the flashier colors and accessories might attract more attention, which could backfire if the point of buying an anti-theft bag was to deter thieves from snatching your things.

✔ Durable and practical ✔ Budget-conscious option ✔ Highly-rated and trusted by travelers ✔ More color choices/Fancier styles and designs

✖ Could attract unnecessary attention ✖ Sadly, the ‘plainer’ designs have the highest user ratings

It really is up to you. My own personal choice is Pacsafe, which I find the most reliable and neutral, a feature I like for traveling. They’re also well made (mine seem indestructible) and well thought through. If you’re in need of a small and a larger travel anti-theft purse, you could decide to buy one of each (I don’t need much of a nudge to buy an extra bag for travel!)

The next best anti-theft bags

If you aren’t a fan of PacSafe or Travelon, then these are the next best anti-theft bags for travel made by other reputable brands. Whether you’re looking for a stylish anti-theft purse, or a slash-proof purse, these will suit or travel bag needs.

• This is perfect for the woman who doesn’t want to carry a purse or a backpack, or who prefers to have various places to stash valuables
• Its ultra-slim design makes it perfect for wearing under your clothes.
• Mine is beige but it comes in a variety of colors.
• It also has multiple compartments and pockets so you’ll be able to keep your cash, cards, ID, and phone separate.
• The moisture-wicking material means it won’t stick to your skin if you sw

• You’ll be able to choose from a bunch of colors and designs.
• This bag isn’t big - it’s a perfect day bag and you’ll be able to put everything you need into it - your keys, cards, cash and phone - and your glasses, of course.
• You can wear it on your shoulder or as a cross-body.
• Of course the polyester material will keep everything dry in the rain.
• It has lots of little compartments, so you’ll have a place for everythin

• Ideal when you don’t need a large bag!
• This clutch has utterly stylish design, made of soft, beautiful leather in beautiful colors.
• Several compartments and RFID protected credit card slots will keep your valuables safe.

It’s true, we are spoilt for choice. Our tremendous thirst for travel, combined with our need to keep our valuables safe, means that traveling without some kind of anti-theft bag is simply not an option anymore. Whichever bag you choose, make sure it is comfortable on your body because no matter how secure it is, if you don’t enjoy wearing it, you won’t.

— Originally published on 26 September 2018

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The Best Crossbody Bags for Easy Travel

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

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

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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• By Destination
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• Luggage Expertise
• Packing Tips

• 1 Best Overall Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag
• 2 Most Secure Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag
• 3 Best Budget Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag
• 4 Best Sling-Style Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag
• 5 Best Mini Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag
• 6 Best Lightweight Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag
• 7 Best Minimalist Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

Best Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bags For Travel

Cross-body bags are travel-safety superstars. Designed to be worn on the shoulder, with the strap resting diagonally across the body and the bag resting against your opposite hip (so: across the body) they’re more secure and convenient than the average hand bag. Though safety and security may be tedious to think about, it's crucial. Unfortunately, pickpockets, grab-and-go muggers, and identify theft thieves are real concerns. But not to fear! Today’s crop of travel cross-body bags are kitted out with various anti-theft features: slash resistant materials, RFID blocking (which stops would-be thieves from skimming credit card info), locking zippers, strategic pockets, and more. We've searched the options, factored in the ever important style component, and come up with some excellent cross-body bag suggestions.

See recent posts by Saman Westberg

Best Overall Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

To be fair, there are several strong contenders for best overall cross-body bag, but this Baggallini pick ekes ahead of the pack. Not only is it lightweight and water-resistant, but it’s RFID-protected and affordable. Several zippered exterior and interior pockets provide additional space for securely stashing items. It comes in 13 fun colors and patterns.

Most Secure Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

When it comes to anti-theft bags, Travelon is the heavyweight brand. Any of their 30+ cross-bodies are excellent options (spoiler alert: more to come), but for security we recommend the Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag . It has: RFID protection, handy compartments for organization, locking zippers, and a snap-on LED light for quickly locating valuables in the dark. Plus, it sits flat against the body for a flattering streamlined look.

Best Budget Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

It’s Travelon again (already). The Classic Crossbody Bucket’s highlights include a main body that’s spacious enough to fit an iPad, two exterior pockets that can hold a bottle of water and/or a compact umbrella, and all the anti-theft features standard to the brand. You can choose from over 30 prints and colors. And it all comes in at under 30 bucks. Yes, under $30. Not surprisingly, the bag has a lot of fans. Over 1,600 Amazon customers have rated it 4.4 out of five stars.

Best Sling-Style Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

If checking out sites by bike or doing a trek is your thing, the KAVU Rope Bag is an ideal pick. It's a fashionable cross-body and backpack hybrid, which makes it ideal for sportier ventures. While it lacks the safety features of others on the list (no RFID blocking, etc.), it is far more comfortable for trekking. The sling is securely worn on the front or back of the body—and is super comfy thanks to the signature rope strap and padded back. There are a slew of colors and patterns to choose from, and depending on your needs, there’s a mini-version, too. The KAVU also happens to be an Amazon #1 bestseller. 

Best Mini Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

Surprise, another Travelon pick! The brand’s standard (and standout) anti-theft features: slash-proof strap and body, locking zippers, RFID blocking, tethered key clip with LED light, and water resistance—are all here in a mini-package. It also has interior slots for credit cards and passports. It's ideal for tucking inside a larger backpack or tote, or wearing on its own when you need less stuff. Almost 80-percent of Amazon reviewers gave it five stars.

Best Lightweight Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

It’s pretty impressive for a bag this size to weigh 10 ounces and still be equipped with anti-theft features—which generally add weight. The PacSafe packs down flat, has a padded compartment for a mini-tablet, and uses eXomesh slashguard wiring to prevent thieves from cutting the bag. You can also lock it to a fixture when not in use, to prevent anyone from grabbing it off the table.

Best Minimalist Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

The Harper Crossbody has space for your money, passport, phone, sunnies, and not much else. And hey, sometimes that’s all you need. Most importantly, whatever’s inside will be RFID-protected. It’s also available in tons of cool color combos, and coming in at under $20 means you can’t really go wrong with this Amazon #1 bestseller.

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Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags

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When choosing a bag (a handbag, travel purse, daypack, or backpack) for travel or city use most people will give some thought to security. It makes sense to buy a bag that makes a bag snatcher’s or pickpocket’s life as hard as possible. We’ve taken a look at the best anti theft travel bags for travellers, the ones designed to keep your passport, cash and other travel essentials attached to you. These anti theft bags work just as well for daily use, anywhere in the world.

Update: The world has supply problems right now. Some of our recommended “best” anti-theft bags and purses are unavailable. We are looking for alternate suppliers. This Travelon bag does seem to be in-stock , and it’s a best-seller, but supply is limited and you probably need to buy before they’re all gone. (it may, become unavailable, please check.) Likewise, this Bagallini bag is available at time of publication. If you’re in the UK, this unisex cross-body anti-theft sling or sash bag is hugely popular and available . It’s ideal for men to use while travelling. In Australia you can buy Travelon anti-theft bags here, in the US look here . Most links on this page will work for Europe, the Americas and Asia. Now we’ll run you through features, plus more models with photos.

In my personal experience as a global traveller of many years, a small cross-body handbag or travel purse is extremely useful. You don’t always want to carry your day-pack, backpack or suitcase if you’re just going out for the evening, for instance. For times like this, I generally use a small cross-body bag, there are several designs below suitable for evening use.

I have a couple of cross-body fabric bags that I pack for travel, both have internal pockets and I can easily add extra security with a safety-pin or two. If you want to buy a travel bag designed to keep the thieves at bay and look a bit dressy or formal, somebody has thought of that!

Here are the best and most popular anti-theft bags for travel and for travellers. As an extra security measure, some also have RFID blocking capacity. The new anti-theft backpacks with built in charging ports are another travel must-have, see them at the end of the post along with a few extra anti-theft devices you may like. All are suitable for use as travel bags and have similar anti-theft features while having slightly different uses.

These bags are mostly aimed at women, but some would work just as well for men, My husband uses a small cross-body bag on airport days, his is a small Kipling bag similar to this one . Although not designed as anti-theft travel bags, the Kipling is rugged and sturdy and is ideal for men or women . We think they’re a great, long-lasting, good-looking, option and of course, can be worn crossbody. My husband has used his on travel days for almost 20 years.

Anti-Theft Bags

For uk, europe, and usa.

If you don’t have time to read this full post, our top picks are here. One is an anti theft bag for travel, work or city. See it here. The other is an anti theft backpack ideal for city life or travel days. See it here. Find full descriptions and specifications further down the page.

For Australia

If you are in Australia, the Travelon anti-theft bag is here. and the city anti-theft laptop bag is here.

Tips For Buying and Using an Anti-Theft Bag or Purse

Before we get into the best anti-theft bags here are some extra tips for travel bag security:

• Keep your bag across your body, not on 1 shoulder.
• Wear the bag on your front, not on your hip or behind.
• Keep a hand on it on busy trains, buses or in markets.
• Don’t keep everything in one bag, spread valuables around various hiding places.
• Avoid motorised bag snatchers by keeping yourself and the bag away from the road.

What Features Should an Anti-Theft Bag Have?

In an anti-theft travel purse or bag look out for features such as:

• anti slash fabric
• locking pockets and locking zippers
• RFID blocking
• steel enforced shoulder straps
• locking hardware for securing to immovable objects
• hidden or secret pockets

The Travelon bags generally have all of these anti-theft features.

Cross Body Anti-Theft Purses and Bags

We’ve shown most of the bags below in black but they do come in multiple  colours from blue to red to gold, click-through on each item to check the range. The Baggalini bags, below, have a particularly good colour range including cool stripes but they don’t have the tough anti slash, anti cut technology of the Travelon bags.

Lewis N Clarke Secura Anti Theft Bag

Take a look here! Lewis N Clarke Secura Anti Theft Bag. This is perfect if you’re out and about in wet weather. (out of stock at time of editing)

My favourite! Unfortunately not available yet in the UK without extra import/shipping fees, ( to the best of my knowledge, I’ve looked but that could change) although other Lewis N Clark products are available. USA and Canada can buy this cool green, blue or black bag.

• water resistant outer
• durable exterior
• fabric lined
• anti-slash fabric and internal steel shoulder strap reinforcement
• exterior locking pocket
• locking hardware to secure to tables etc.
• RFID blocking pocket for cards
• internal organiser pockets including zip pocket
• slimline profile
• 11 x 3 x 9.5 inches
• 49 inch strap
• main locking zip compartment
• also available in onyx

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Take a look – Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag. A key feature is the lobster claw designed to be secured to bars or tables.

If you are in Australia , the Travelon anti-theft bag is here .

• internal pockets
• external water holder
• RFID blocking card and passport sections
• cut proof, cable reinforced shoulder strap
• lobster claw clasps on pockets and straps
• slash resistant internal mesh on body panels
• main strap can be used to fasten to immovable objects using lobster claw
• strap length 28-48 inches
• size 11 x 10 x 4.5 inch
• a range of colours, I like the blue.

New – Travelon Messenger Anti Theft Urban Bag

Take a look at the new urban Travelon messenger here. This could be my new favourite!

I like this one a lot! It’s a little more expensive than most of the travel bags on here, but for people like me who often carry their laptops ( I’m what’s known as a digital nomad, I work online from anywhere) a bag like this is gold. I love the style too, plus the usual Anti Theft features along with a laptop pocket.

• Take a small laptop, plus ipad or tablet in a padded buckled compartment (up to 14 inches)
• Has a pass-thru strap on the rear to secure this bag to your wheeled luggage.
• RFID blocking pockets for passports and credit cards
• Strengthened strap which can be attached to fixtures and furnishings.
• Slash resistant mesh

Travelon Classic Anti-Theft Mini Shoulder Bag

Check out the Travelon Classic Anti-Theft Mini Shoulder Bag. Perfect if you need a small bag. Best for a night out maybe?

• available in black, blue, red, light grey – many colours and patterns
• slash proof
• locking compartment
• RFID blocking card and passport area
• cut proof shoulder strap
• strap can be fastened to immovable objects
• size 10 x 9.5 x 2 inches

Travelon Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Cross-Body Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody, Black, Straight Pocket

• comes in blue, red, dark grey, beige and black
• 3, larger, locking compartments
• main compartment has RFID blocking card and passport section
• slash resistant body
• cut resistant shoulder strap
• strap can be fastened around immovable objects with lobster claw fastening
• 29 inch drop
• larger size, 11.5 x 13.75 inch

Baggalline Everywhere Cross Body Bag

Baggalline Everywhere Cross Body Bag. Great if you’re wearing your bags across your body.

• A great range of colours
• multiple pockets
• spacious, longer drop for cross body use.

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag

This one comes in red, blue, black, patterns, there is loads of choice!

This one is a larger size, with all the usual Travelon anti theft features

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross body bucket bag will hold a 10 inch tablet or I pad.

• anti cut strap
• anti slash panels
• RFID blocking card/passport section
• lower price than many for the black version
• built in external water pocket
• built in external umbrella pocket
• locking main compartment
• strap can lock to an immovable object
• larger size 10 inch high by 14 inch deep
• available in leopard, grey, green, purple and black – good choice of colours.

Bagallini Pocket Waterproof Cross Body Bag

• durable nylon
• great colour range

Larger Anti Theft Travel Bags, Backpacks and Daypacks

With most of these bags you will need portable chargers or power banks, we created a post on our favourite (often solar) chargers here . The Bobby Bag is the most expensive of these 3 but it’s so feature-packed it’s hard to ignore. This one is my pick for city use or even to use as a small carry on bag. I regularly use a small backpack or daypack as a travel purse, it’s far more convenient and like the cross-body bags, more secure.

Baggalini (a well-known anti-theft travel bag brand) now make their own stylish anti-theft women’s small backpack or daypack for vacations, perfect for European trips. Take a look here. This one features Baggalini’s Securetex textile.

The Bobby Bag was out of stock the last time we checked, check out this very inexpensive one instead, we are keeping the information below for now, as these may become available again. The Bobby Bag is a costly purchase, I’d rather spend more in this instance.

Anti Theft Laptop Bags or Day Packs

Above – Low Cost Anti Theft Business Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port Fits 15.6 inch Laptop

A backpack that will take your laptop safely and securely is an absolute God-send and these days I’d say that any daypack you choose, other than for trekking , must be laptop sized. This one has all the bells and whistles. The zips are lockable with a combination padlock and his has an external USB port for charging your mobile devices. This Mancro bag is an Amazon Best Seller and the price is budget friendly.

Above – Again, pretty cheap – Oscaurt Anti-theft Travel Backpack, Business Laptop School Bookbag with USB Charging Port

The Original Bobby Bag

The Original Bobby Bag below would be my choice. It’s so packed with features that I can’t possibly describe them all here. Again you can charge, again it has protective layers, I love that you can keep public transport cards handy in front pockets ( the perfect bag for London use!). Just click through and see the features, it’s a brilliant design. Next time I’m in London I’m getting one of these, pink, blue and yellow compact versions are available too.

The most expensive of these 3 and Amazon’s Choice – XD Design Bobby Original Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack with USB port (Unisex bag) bag)

If you are in Australia  the original Bobby Bag city anti-theft laptop bag is here .

Anti-Theft Bags Available in the UK

Just click below to see a selection of anti theft bags available in the UK currently.  For our USA readers and all other countries, you should be fine with any of the other links on this page. Pacsafe are very popular in the UK and you’ll see a few choices below.

Are Anti Theft Bags Worth Buying?

Yes, we think the added peace of mind and security of using an anti-theft travel bag is helpful. Anti-theft bags have features such as slash-proof fabric, hidden lockable pockets, hooks and straps to attach to furniture and cut-resistant cross-body or shoulder straps. They also often have RFID blocking technology. I have had a bag, a backpack, slashed on a train. I had an anti-theft layer inside the outer bag. The thieves got nothing.

Extra Anti Theft Devices For Travel

In addition to your anti-theft bag, you may want some other anti-theft devices for your trip.

Cable locks allow you to secure your bags to a bench, a train luggage rack, a table, your other bags, or anything that will make them harder to snatch. Useful at airports, train stations and anywhere you sit-a while, the brand below is one of the most well respected and TSA compliant. Cheap versions are easy to break. Cable locks are brilliant if you need to attach bags to an immovable object like on a train for instance.

Most of the dedicated anti-theft bags remove the need for a cable lock, but your main luggage may still require locking up.

Then you can think about hidden wallets and pockets in secret pouches. They’re all going in our new post, coming soon!

More Anti-Theft Bags and Other Travel Essentials

Anti-theft bags can be cross-body, a shoulder purse, a small backpack, large backpack or and main luggage bag. We think they should be items on your travel essentials list.

Visit our other posts in our “travel gear” category for more items to pack and carry with you on your trip, to Europe, Africa, Asia, the world!

Small Cross-Body Anti-Theft Purse v Travel Organiser

This year (2023 and 2024) I’m trialling a very small cross-body bag by Bagallini to use in place of my travel passport wallet organiser. I think this will work well and be more “hands-free” at the airport.

I used this bag in Japan last fall and it was great for the airport and on the plane. For evenings it was good, but for big sight-seeing days, I took my daypack and kept this little bag inside. I was very happy with this anti-theft bag and I will use it for my extended solo travels in 2024, alongside my daypack, which doubles as my carry-on luggage.

This is the bag I chose to buy. It’s a Baggalini triple zip, I chose beige to match my boots and it has a glorious pink lining.

Don’t Worry About Theft Too Much

I want to reassure you that theft isn’t a major issue from the moment you leave your front door to travel.

In 20+ years of travel, to 50+ countries I’ve had one pickpocketing incident. I stupidly left my bag unzipped on a crowded bus in Malaysia.

We have had one bag stolen completely, we took our eyes off it in an airport in Australia.

On one occasion we had a bag slashed by a potential thief, luckily it had a metal mesh inner to make it knife proof.

We travel full-time and have lived in London (which some travellers consider high risk for theft and sadly our theft problem is rising, scooter thieves are targetting pedestrians) for many years.

These anti theft travel bags exist, mostly, to give you extra peace of mind. It’s your choice, do you need one? While a handy-sized cross body bag is always a good idea, particularly for airport days when your documents ( see organisers here ) need to be accessible and extra pack security is reassuring, we don’t want you to think your belongings and documents are always in imminent danger. Make sure you take out good travel insurance too, this is the one we use .

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

Related Posts:

Alyson Long

What is thai food (thai food for beginners), amphawa floating market, 30 thoughts on “best anti-theft travel bags”.

We absolutely love your post on anti-theft travel bags – very useful information. We are going to buy the Lewis N Clarke Secura Anti Theft Bag – thank you.

Oh good, that one is my favourite!

Really many many thanks for your great advice. Actually anti theft bag is really so helpful for a tourist or for a traveling. In your blog I find few tips which are helps me on my next travel. Thanks for everything.

I love your travel bag. It is really good for travelling.

Great post! Thanks for the tips on the best bags to keep from the thieves.

This idea was absolutely nice, it gives travelers peace as they travel. to their different Africa safari destinations. Thieves will now have nothing un worked for!

Alison, you may want to update these recommendations . I purchased a Travelon anti theft bag that you recommended from Amazon. It looked fantastic….. until I read the small sticker attached that warned me that the fabric of the bag had been treated by a chemical that is known to cause cancer and birth defects in the State of California ! I was really shocked to see this sticker on the bag and that Travelon and Amazon are allowed to sell products that carry a health warning. Needless to say, I packaged it up and used Amazon’s return system to send it back. To their credit, Amazon were great and I got a full refund .

Interesting, thanks Julie. It happens all the time. We eat stuff here in Australia that is banned elsewhere and vice versa.

Whenever I travel, I usually got so stressed out because of how I make sure to look after all my things thinking someone is just out there waiting for his perfect time to grab my belongings from me. This is maybe a result of a traumatic experience I had a couple of years ago when someone tried to pickpocket me. The experience created a hole in my heart to the point that it is really hard for me to trust people anymore. Good thing the market already have these kind of bags that offers protection to its market. I’m really very glad that at least I can be assured of my safety especially when i am on the road with these bags. Thank you for this article. I will definitely grab one. You’re such a blessing.

Thank you, I even can’t think about such blogs. Very helpful. I will love to purchase one for my India trip.

Good selection of bags thanks for sharing. I am looking for a Anti Theft bag and your analysis has narrowed down my choice.

I have been searching better anti theft bags for months and it would be great if I found it before March coz I am planning to travel to Germany for the very first time and need something light and easy to lug around. Thanks

Incredible analysis. Anti-theft bags are brilliant in design. Again, good job.

Good post – I have had three Travelon bags now – after being pickpocketed in Barcelona on the metro from what I thought was a hard to steal from bag (not one of theses obvs), but those guys are the best! I got a small one initially and used it at home and travelling. Great for cash and passports, but that was all so I replaced it with a bucket bag last year and while it is ideal for hand luggage as an addition to checked in luggage, not so much for everyday, too big and it looked like a travel bag. Researching them for a friend I found the Travelon Hobo bag, with all the security features but it looks like the canvas bags of my student days. Love it. Doesn’t scream traveller. As you say Alyson, theft is not a major threat, I have been pickpocketed twice, once in 1982 in St Tropez and once about 10 years ago in Barcelona and these are two places where the professionals practice their art – but the reassurance that I have taken the best precautions to prevent theft makes me feel better (the Barcelona event stressed me for weeks after as I felt I had been stupid). The belt, I am getting one for my husband, as he is the back up money guy and hates taking his belt off at airports. He also wants a man bag, so I may look at the Kipling. Thanks for the research and advice.

It’s oly happened to us in Malaysia Coral. A pick pocket on a bus just stuck his hand into my day pack, which was open. The betrayal of trust is hardest to deal with for me. Thieves are not a major threat, but there are always a few and taking precautions is good for peace of mind. A lot of trouble in London recently too with scooter thieves snatching bags and phones as they ride past, particularly areas like Mayfair. I’ve lived in London years, but these days I’m cautious. Did you see the shooting of that boy yesterday? Oh my gosh crime is getting bad there.

I liked the idea of an anti-theft backpack. Along with added security, it helps to store the laptop and other essential belongings while going on a trip or while using daily commutes.

It is just a perfect post. With all the aspects clearly mentioned, this is going to help me pick up the best anti-theft travel bag. Your small miniature bag is lovely! I liked it.

Awesome post! I love the security belt! I discretely keep back up cash in local currency, american dollars and I also insert certified copies of my documents such as passport and birth certificate. Best travel buy ever!

Yes, it can be a smart move and with a belt you can just wear it and forget it, no sweaty pouches under your clothes.

Love the sound of these. Fantastic post, thanks!

This is a great list. I love Baggalini, my everyday go-to is a Baggalini. I bought the Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag in purple for traveling to Paris. It was great! It held 2 bottles of water, a nappie and wipes, and small snacks, in addition to my wallet. It is a great size.

Really useful article – I haven’t really thought about this in much depth yet but will definitely come back here when we cross that bridge in our travel plans.

I really like the look of the Kipling one, but might have to purchase one of the ones with inner mesh for our next adventure too. Always thought about them but never bought one. I really must!

Lots of great suggestions. I’d never heard of the travel security belt, great idea!

We’ve had a Kipling backpack style bag for sixteen years and they are very robust-really fancy one of the across the body anti-theft ones. Really stylish too.

I have a Kipling too, a bit bigger than your husband’s. I love it because it’s super cute and light.

Great bags, I did not know there are antitheft travel bags. Thank you for this article. So useful! My mother got her bag cut on the bus. Fortunately they did not steal her wallet, but the bag was ruined. I will look into these for her.

Great advice! And these were exactly what I was looking for, thanks!

It is common to get your bag stolen during travel or trip. Making sure that you have anti-theft in which you can put essential would be best idea. I appreciate the suggestions and buy 1 for my next travel with my family.

It’s not common. Don’t worry.

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Smart Design, Large Capacity.

Our Anti-theft Travel Bag streamlines your travel experience by offering convenience, security, and style. And guess what? This bag is like a storage champ. You can easily put all your important and valuable things in it, and it's perfect for wherever you go (travels, day trips, or sightseeing)! You can now have fun on your trips without worrying about pickpockets or losing your stuff.

Perfect for travel, day trips, and sightseeing

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It's built to be slim and snug, so it fits your body shape perfectly. You can adjust the shoulder strap to make it comfortable & practical.

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This bag is everything they said it would be and more. It easily held our passports, credit cards, money, bug spray, sunscreen, sunglasses, and everything in between. It is very comfortable to carry and naturally fits around the shoulders and waist. The style is effortless and kept everything dry and accessible. I highly recommend this bag.

I really like the bag for all the same reasons the rest of the reviews do. I just have one question, what is the snap loop for? The magnet is not strong enough for keys.

I absolutely adore it, and it holds everything without looking big and bulky. I feel less like a target while using it.

I was given this bag for as Birthday gift. Best bag ever. Thought it would be good for traveling to take phone, passport, travel documents, purse, etc. I’m now using it every day! Only just noticed the 3rd concealed pocket at the back, that’s how well made it is. Very comfortable to wear, fits close to the body, good quality material. Now going to order another one. 5 * / Great value for money!

I absolutely love this bag! I had planned on taking when we vacation to stow away billfold, key fobs and anything else that is necessary for day trips or sight seeing. Fits very securely under arm area when filled, has a padded strap with very secure hardware also appears to be durable rugged canvas. I chose the black it’s my favorite color and blends in with my style of apparel. You can choose how to wear it. There are three decent sized pockets and should fit everyday items with ease. Back to purchase another one for everyday wear, I’m moving past the big bulky bags and cross body purse that I am currently using. I think men and/or women can wear this without drawing attention or standing out to potential pick pockets or thieves. The price is outstanding for the quality. If you’re looking for a huge bag to carry your life’s treasures - this is not the bag for you.

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Shop TODAY editors and travel experts swear by these anti-theft products while traveling

The heart-dropping, stomach-sinking moment in "Home Alone" when the McCallister family realizes Kevin was forgotten isn't one that many can relate to. However, while traveling , many of us can relate to the head-scratching moments when we ask ourselves, "Did I leave something behind?"

What's even worse than forgetting to pack certain valuables is having them stolen from right under your nose and having nothing to blame but your easy-to-access bag or luggage. The best anti-theft products employ various protective features and aim to resolve these problems while helping you keep better track of your belongings.

Shop TODAY spoke with Mitra Amirzadeh and Katie Jackson, two seasoned travelers, to get their insight on what anti-theft products they trust to keep their valuables safe (and what you should be looking out for when shopping).

What are anti-theft features? | What should shoppers keep in mind? | Editor-recommended anti-theft products | Expert-recommended anti-theft products | How we chose | Meet the experts

Shop Today Snapshot

Best anti-theft travel products.

What do anti-theft features look like?

Anti-theft features might not always be obvious (for example, a subtle combination lock on a suitcase). They're worth it, though. Here are a few examples of some anti-theft characteristics in backpacks, luggage and more:

• Zippers: Zippers on anti-theft bags might be hidden, such as a backpack with a zipper in the back rather than the front. There are also hard-to-find zippers that tuck into the bag itself, making them difficult to access.
• Pockets: Amirzadeh appreciates a backpack with a rear-loading pocket rather than a traditional front compartment, as it makes it harder to pickpocket.
• Bluetooth trackers: Both Jackson and Amirzadeh put their trust in Bluetooth trackers that they add to luggage, which they are able to access from their phones. The Apple AirTag was rated as one of the best travel accessories during Shop TODAY's Travel Awards in 2023, making it one that both Shop TODAY editors and travel experts trust.

What should consumers keep in mind when shopping for anti-theft products?

In order to stay one step ahead, Jackson assumes the position and mindset of a thief when shopping for these products.

She says, "What would you look for if you were going to steal a bag or its contents? Then, shop for a bag that doesn’t have those blind spots." Jackson continues, "If your bag is slightly inconvenient for you to open, that may be annoying, but in the long run it’s worth it if it prevents a thief from stealing your valuables."

This is one of the reasons why Jackson bought the Cotopaxi Allpa pack : because the zippers tuck into a loop.

Additionally, Amirzadeh has noticed an uptick in passengers carrying hip packs across the front of their bodies to clearly see and access their items. Plus, keeping your valuables in front of you helps reduce the likeliness that a thief will unzip your bag from behind.

"I think carrying your passport , your cellphone and your wallet in a hip bag that is towards the front of you, or a crossbody bag that you’re wearing across your chest, is a really good idea; you’re less likely to get your stuff stolen that way," she says.

Editor-loved anti-theft products

Ytonet laptop backpack .

Laptop Backpack

• Extremely roomy
• Opens from the top
• Many hidden pockets inside
• Zippers aren't hidden

According to Amanda Fama , a commerce editor at Shop TODAY, this one "extremely roomy" backpack. It has a unique design that opens from the top, and the handles above can be secured together. Plus, there are various pockets throughout the interior.

"I used this backpack often for traveling and commuting with my laptop, and I always felt confident that my items were secure," She says. "Plus, it's roomy enough to fit clothes and shoes for weekend trips."

INICAT Crossbody Leather Bag

INICAT Small Crossbody Sling Bag

• "Functional and secure"
• Won't give off tourist vibes
• Logo is visible

This crossbody bag features two zippered pouches in the front and one in the back, which is why associate editor Shannon Garlin trusted it with her go-to ' s when traveling abroad.

"This large (but not too large)  crossbody bag  has become the star of my latest trip abroad," she says. "Not only did I get tons of compliments from friends, but also it fit everything I needed for a day exploring a foreign city, all while feeling secure!"

Quince Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase

Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase

• Chic design
• Can scuff quickly

Usually we associate Quince with affordable luxury fabrics and basics, but did you know they make travel products as well? From packing cubes to duffel bags and more, the brand is proving to be more than a go-to for reasonably priced clothing items.

Associate editor Allie Wise owns this hard shell suitcase, that's available in four different carry-on sizes and five colors.

"I received a sample of this suitcase in tan and I have not traveled with any other suitcase since," she says. "I absolutely love how well it rolls through the airport- almost too good! It also has a TSA-approved lock to safely store all your valuables."

Samsonite Outline Pro Medium Spinner

This spinner won a Shop TODAY Travel Gear Award for best splurge suitcase.

• The lock is easy to set up
• Holds a lot, easy to clean
• None to note at this time

Well-loved by Shop TODAY editors during our Travel Awards in 2023, this medium-sized suitcase was the first time that associate editor Kamari Stewart had used one that included anti-theft features.

"This suitcase is my tried-and-true favorite," she says. "I bought it two years ago and I take it literally everywhere. Aside from the massive amount of stuff that fits in what they call a 'medium,' I love the TSA-safe lock it has."

This 360-degree roller has a three-digit lock that you can use to secure your items.

"It was super easy to set up and has been a breeze to use ever since," she says. "It definitely provides me with peace of mind on longer/farther trips where I’m always scared of it getting stolen."

Expert-recommended anti-theft products

Apple airtag.

• "Game-changer"
• Affordable, reasonably priced
• Audio alert is quiet

Both Jackson and Amirzadeh swear by Apple AirTags to help keep track of their items, whether they’re in the overhead bins above them or stowed away under the carriage.

“While they won’t deter theft, they provide some semblance of hope that if our bags do go missing, they’ll at least be trackable,” Jackson says.

They’re available individually or in four-packs, which is convenient if you have multiple bags or family members with things to keep track of.

“I like knowing that if I accidentally walk away from my backpack or luggage that my phone’s going to go off, because where do we go without our phone? Absolutely nowhere. I like that it tells me ‘Hey, you might have left this item behind,’” says Amirzadeh.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Super spacious
• Can be bulky

Jackson purchased this multi-tasking pack after nearly getting pickpocketed abroad and praises its zippers, a quality that is often overlooked in luggage.

“The zippers don’t lock, per se, but they tuck away, so you can’t open them unless you’re at the right angle and they take several seconds to undo,” she says.

This pack opens up like a suitcase, with zippered mesh compartments on each side that can fit a week or two weeks’ worth of clothing and items. Plus, it has loops on either side of the compartments to tuck your zipper into so they’re harder to access.

ThinkTank BackStory Backpack

BackStory™ 15

• Rear loading compartment
• Is bulky, but holds equipment

This is Amirzadeh’s choice when it comes to carting her camera equipment around. With a rear-loading compartment that includes 15 panels to store cameras and accessories, she’s able to travel from country to country without fear of her items getting stolen.

“All of my gear goes in the reverse panels and I fill the backpack from behind, so all the zippers are up against my back, instead of out there where you could be behind me in line and unzip it,” she says.

Shopper-favorite anti-theft products

Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker

Waterproof Nylon Anti-theft Rucksack

Anti Theft Backpack

How we chose.

As a team of editors who are always on the go, the Shop TODAY staff pitched protective products that they depend on while traveling. We also included the preferred travel bags and accessories from a flight attendant and a travel writer. Many of the items included have anti-theft features such as hidden zippers, rear-loading designs and more.

Meet the experts

• Mitra Amirzadeh has been a flight attendant for nine years, and a destination wedding photographer for five.
• Katie Jackson is a travel writer and expert, serving on our panel of experts for the Shop TODAY Travel Awards .

Sierra is an editorial assistant for Shop TODAY.

The 15 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Vacation

The hack for easy, breezy adventuring.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

Don't underestimate the power of a good travel purse. The best ones make your trips all the more seamless, whether that means easier access to essentials in security lines or less spillage of snacks. While these bags are as practical and functional as it gets, they can also be stylish. And that's where we come in.

Keeping all of that in mind, we found the 15 best travel purses that eagerly await your next adventure. And if you don't have a trip planned, well, this is your excuse to satiate that wanderlust.

JW PEI Aylin Canvas Crossbody Bag

This Oprah-approved crossbody is perfect for the person who's looking to carry their phone and a few credit cards. It doesn't hold much, but it holds all your bare essentials. Perfect for quick trips out and about.

Longchamp Le Pliage

Made from recycled canvas, you've surely spotted Longchamp's signature style at the airport or train station before. The exterior wipes clean, while the interior features two slip pockets for organization. One of the best things about this bag is that it can be folded into the size of a paperback book.

Mansur Gavriel Vegan Apple Leather Mini Crossbody

While we love Mansur's totes, here the brand takes its thoughtful craftsmanship to the crossbody silhouette. The Italian apple-based material (yes, you read that right) keeps the style sustainable so you can shop this bag with a clean conscience.

Golden Goose Star Shoulder Strap Bag

For a travel bag that's ultra-cool and undeniably unique, look no further than Golden Goose. With an adjustable shoulder strap, inside pocket, and external pocket for your phone, this bag was made for travel and weekend wear. The playful pops of color and sneaker keychain make this a standout select.

Paravel Mini Cabana Tote

Sustainability is at the core of Paravel's collections, constructed from plastic water bottles. Attach the crossbody strap for hands-free carrying, or keep as a top-handle top. Multiple pockets stow your smaller accessories.

TUMI Asra Shoulder Bag

It's to no surprise that Tumi, a purveyor of high-quality travel products, has just delivered one of the chicest purses for your next trip. The nylon construction is super easy to clean, and multiple pockets (including a zip one) make for ample storage.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Lululemon's convertible belt bag style can be worn as a fanny pack or crossbody, making this petite purse incredibly versatile. Featuring a water-repellent fabric, an exterior zip pocket, and a few interior ones, this bag packs a punch.

Baggallini Take Two Bryant Crossbody

Stay protected on the go with a crossbody that gives you two RFID-protected card slots. This will prevent anybody from scanning your cards and stealing your personal information as they pass by.

Dorothee Schumacher Raffia Shoulder Bag

If you're headed on a beach vacation, this raffia bag from Dorothee Schumacher brings the boho chic vibes in functional fashion. The adjustable shoulder strap makes for easy carrying, and concealed magnetic fastening keeps your possessions secured.

Travelon Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

For a bag that foils the pickpockets, this simple shoulder bag is a solid choice. From the slash-resistant construction to the locking compartments to the RFID-blocking card and passport slots, it's as secure as it gets.

PAK Rêve The Origin PAK Backpack

You can rest assured that this nylon backpack, founded by a travel writer, was essentially made for any and all trips. Between the front pocket that unzips into a jacket sling and oversize side pockets for extra-large water bottles, every detail that went into this bag aims to make your life easier.

FP Collection Hudson Sling Bag

Free People's sling bag is beloved by many, and for good reason, too. Choose from seven different hues for a bag that suits you, with an adjustable woven strap and exterior zip pockets for practicality.

Alo Yoga Utility Crossbody Bucket Bag

Exterior mesh pockets make for quick access to your belongings, while a drawstring cinches for security. Zippered pockets and an adjustable carrying strap finish off the features of this bucket bag.

Calpak Stevyn Mini Crossbody Bag

You have probably seen Calpak's carry-ons, but don't sleep on the brand's mini bags. This one has a water-resistant exterior and zippered pockets to safely store items.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Dagne Dover's neoprene duffel is a durable, lightweight design that will go everywhere and anywhere with you. Aside from being entirely vegan (which we love), it also has some hidden assets. Think: laptop sleeve, dust bag, shoe bag, and more. Pick from a variety of sizes and colors.

Gaby Keiderling is a New York–based writer working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features. She also covers celebrity style for Esquire 's “Get Ready with Me” franchise. Her work can also be seen in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar , and more. Sometimes you can spot her around the West Village, out on a walk with her dog, Sneakers.

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27 Crossbody Bags You’ll Want to Take Everywhere

By 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. We also love how versatile the crossbody bags are, taking you from daytime hikes and city walking tours to evening dinner dates. To help you discover the best crossbody bags to wear this spring and beyond, we rounded up a list of our favorites for travelers, with varying price points and styles. Below, 27 crossbody bags you'll take everywhere, from timeless leather purses and water-resistant camera bags to beach totes with removable straps.

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

Shop our top picks:

• Best everyday bag: Madewell The Sydney crossbody bag
• Best leather bag: Cuyana Mini Double Loop bag
• Best for active days: Lululemon 2L crossbody camera bag
• Best clear bag: Uspeclare clear crossbody bag
• Best mini bag : Quince Italian Leather Phone crossbody
• Best designer bag: YSL Lou Leather camera bag
• Best evening bag: Coach Tabby Pebbled Leathered crossbody
• Best day-to-night bag: Kate Spade Knott small crossbody bag
• Best beach bag: Paravel Small Cabana tote
• Best for parents: MZ Wallace Metro crossbody bag

Best everyday crossbody

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 crossbody

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 stone.

Best hybrid shoulder bag

This elegant bestseller from Banana Republic fits a ton. Its Italian pebbled leather exterior mixed with the slouchy, half-moon silhouette makes it one of the most versatile bags on our list. Whether you're dressed casually for a museum outing or wearing a dress and heels for a night out, this shoulder bag that doubles as a crossbody is the perfect companion. Versatile bags like this are perfect for quick trips when you're only packing one purse to wear with every outfit.

Best water-resistant crossbody

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.

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 clear crossbody

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 $15 on Amazon.

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 affordable crossbody

If you're need of a crossbody for a camping trip, music festival, or last-minute weekend getaway, this simple black crossbody bag is only $20 on Amazon and is eligible for Prime delivery, meaning you can get your hands on it in just two days. It features a long adjustable strap, an exterior pocket for you phone, and a removable pouch for small items like your AirPods or lip balm .

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 front sleeve pocket and a soft strap.

Best for commuting

You know Athleta for it's activewear, but don't sleep on its accessories, especially this functional crossbody. Its perfect for a theme park visit, shopping day, or commute, and it's roomy enough to fit a whole lot, including your sunglasses, portable charger, and some snacks. Grab it in oak (pictured), teal, green, dark lapis blue, light gray, or black.

Best durable crossbody

Searching for something that's a little more durable? Look no further than the July Carry Me crossbody , a hardshell bag that's both water-resistant and easy to clean. This practical crossbody comes from Australian luggage brand July—known for designing the world's lightest carry-on . The Carry Me crossbody features two deep pockets, snap closures on each side to keep it secure, and a removable strap that when taken off, turns the bag into a clutch.

Best mini crossbody

This small, chic leather crossbody holds just the essentials—your phone, credit cards, and a lip balm. It can be worn day or night and with just about any outfit, making it a worthy companion on any trip. Not to mention, it won't take up much suitcase space at all.

Best slouchy crossbody

Another favorite of ours from Banana Republic is this slouchy leather staple that can be carried as a traditional handbag or as a crossbody. It features an adjustable shoulder strap, an interior pocket, and a clasp closure. Any of its four shades—black, ivory, brown, or yellow—would be great additions to a capsule wardrobe .

Sleekest crossbody

When you want the practicality of a crossbody but the option of a shoulder bag, this stylish leather number is the perfect solution. It has a flat base for stability, an interior zip pocket and card slots, and a thick adjustable strap. Best of all, it'll look good with both casual and dressier outfits.

Best colorful crossbody

We love this sporty, bright green crossbody from Baggu that's ideal for hiking, camping, or concert-going . It has multiple pockets and doubles as an organizational pouch when you remove the adjustable strap. Plus, it's made of recycled materials and is machine washable.

Best hybrid tote 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 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 slim crossbody

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 designer crossbody

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 three shades.

Best evening bag

Coach has stepped up its game over the last few years with new sleek designs on its classic silhouettes. One popular style is the Tabby pebbled leather crossbody bag. The sleek, structured look and stylish gold strap makes it great for evenings out.

Best day-to-night crossbody

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 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 sustainable crossbody

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 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 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 holding your phone

If you're looking for something that holds your ID, phone, and not much else, say for runs, hikes, or walking around a cruise ship, turn to this slim crossbody from Béis. It's available in the brand's signature beige and black.

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.

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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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15 Safety Devices Every Traveler Should Have on Hand for Their Next Trip — Starting at $8 at Amazon

They just might save your life one day.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure

Taking any trip is amazing — but taking a trip with peace of mind? Even better. Safety is of utmost importance when traveling, but even more so when you’re solo or traveling through dense, packed cities that are known for pickpockets. 

Thankfully, there’s a ton of effective travel safety gear out there that can make your time on the road just a bit more secure and comfortable. We identified 15 popular products that are gaining traction with travelers — and best of all, they’re all available at Amazon, so they’ll be shipped to your door with just a click, often in just a matter of days. Take comfort in knowing you’ve covered all your bases with your vacation planning, and enjoy your days off. That’s what a trip is all about, right? 

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

If you’re traveling — and in particular, if you’re traveling solo — this T+L staff-trusted She’s Birdie personal safety alarm could be the most important thing you buy. A loud siren will play and a strobe light will flash when the safety alarm is set off, which is easy to do — just remove the pin from the top. To stop it or deactivate it, you just replace the pin. The alarm can be used multiple times and will continue for up to 40 minutes on one battery (batteries are replaceable). It comes in a ton of colors and attaches easily to your keychain or purse strap, etc. Plus, 5 percent of the profits are donated to organizations that focus on women’s safety. 

Ace Mining Portable Door Lock

Add an extra level of protection to every stay with this Amazon No. 1 best-selling portable door lock. With this easy-to-install gadget, no one from the outside can get in, and you can rest (and sleep) easy knowing you’re safe and sound inside your Airbnb, hotel, or other home away from home. It can be installed in seconds, is small and easy to pack, and has two holes to fit pretty much any door. It’s made of stainless steel and will work time and time again. 

Veger Portable Charger

There are few things more unsafe than letting your phone die, especially if you’re on your own. Make sure that doesn’t happen by keeping this portable charger juiced up and on hand. It’s an all-in-one charger, with an AC port and attached chargers for iPhone, Type C, and Micro USB, plus USB and USB C inputs so you can bring cords should you need. It’s perfectly thin and fits great in any tech organizer; just throw it in a bag or purse when you’re on the go. 

StashBandz Unisex Running Belt

This running belt is great for everyday wear, keeping all your essentials on you while working out, but it also works great as a travel companion — stashing things like passports or keys out of sight while on the go. Especially great for areas that are heavy on pickpocketing, this undetectable money belt has stashable pockets, including a zippered front pocket. And with its extra-wide band, it can store quite a lot. It’s got moisture-wicking technology to keep things (a.k.a. you) from overheating, and is also great for holding medical gear. 

Travelon Anti-Theft Bag

If you’re looking for a fantastic travel bag that’ll keep everything safe and secure, this is the one for you. It can be worn crossbody with an adjustable shoulder strap (for harder access for pickpockets and thieves) and also has an interior organizer with RFID-blocking material to protect your passports and credit cards. Even better, there’s a front zippered pocket under a magnetic flap for maximum security, a tethered interior key clip with an LED light, and locking zipper pulls. 

Munio Self-Defense Keychain Kit

This self-defense tool that was created by a Martial Arts master and endorsed by police goes right on your keychain and can help in the event of an attack; keep it in your hand while walking and use the end to jab an attacker. The discreet design fits comfortably in your palm, and on the outside, it just looks like a decorative keychain. The company provides a free E-book and downloadable videos to show how to use the tool, and it is perfect for travel since it’s actually allowed on a plane. 

TravelMore TSA-approved Luggage Locks, 4-pack

Not your average TSA lock, this one is sleek and well-designed, made with Zinc Alloy for extra durability. Lock them onto your luggage for security, while still being TSA-compliant (they can open and close them without issue). Because they’re so sleek, you can also use them for things like duffel bags, purses, and backpacks, making hiking, train travel, or going to high-trafficked areas more secure — basically a breeze.

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector

You’ve heard the horror stories of carbon monoxide poisoning on trips (and if you haven’t, save yourself the Google and just know that it’s real). This No.1 best-selling portable carbon monoxide detector is the perfect thing to keep in your luggage and set up as you unpack. It comes with two AA batteries and can be placed on any flat surface. “It’s so small we take it everywhere with us,” said one reviewer . 

Homotek 2-Pack Wedge Rubber Door Stops

Another easy way to stop an intrusion before it happens is placing a door stopper underneath the hotel room or Airbnb door; this will help prevent or make it difficult to open the door from the outside. It’s also a great item for making sure doors stay open (and you stay safe), while doing routine things like taking out trash from an Airbnb or seeing what the rooftop views are from your rental. 

Gorilla Grip Mini Flashlight

Yes, most of us have a flashlight on our phones — but that doesn’t quite help in the case of an emergency in which your phone dies. This mini flashlight will keep you cool and calm in any scenario, including navigating dark streets, figuring out power outages, and more. It’s also great to blind an attacker or use as a jabbing tool should the need arise. This one also features a strobe setting, which would be great for (god forbid) if you need to try and get someone’s attention. It’s made to sustain drops as well as water submersion and has an anti-slip handle. 

LifeStraw Water Bottle

If you’re traveling to a destination where water could contain contaminants — or hiking, camping, and the like — you’ll want this water bottle. LifeStraw is known for its technology which filters out everything that could harm you (and obviously improves taste), and it’s been independently lab-tested to meet the protocols established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The filters last for lots of uses, and it’s easy to clean and super durable.

Thrive Mini First-Aid Kit

Don’t travel anywhere without a first-aid kit. Seriously. This one is super compact and easy to travel with and contains everything from antiseptic wipes and alcohol pads to gel burn packets and bandages. It also contains a first-aid guide that explains how to treat common injuries (ideal for when you don’t have technology right by your side). It’s an easy thing to throw and keep in your luggage trip after trip. 

Apple AirTag

Where’s your suitcase? Where’s your purse? Where’s your wallet? With an AirTag, you will know exactly where everything is and how to get to it — perfect for not only keeping an eye (er, location tag) on things but also should something be stolen; you’ll be able to (hopefully) track it down (and alert authorities). It’s one of those things that you don’t know you need as much as you do until you have one. 

FurArt Slim Wallet

With RFID-blocking technology, your credit cards and IDs are safe and sound from identity theft, and with its minimalist design, you can keep this on your body (instead of your bag or purse) should you want. This wallet also ensures you only take what you need on a trip, and you can leave the rest at home (or in a locked safe). It comes in a slew of colors and features a see-through ID pocket so you don’t even have to remove the ID, plus a buckle that you can hook to a keychain, carabiner, or lanyard. 

Amazon Basics Portable Lock Box

This portable lock box will keep your valuables stashed, including passports, jewelry, keys, and more, and has both a combination lock and opening cable to use and lock how you wish. Most reviewers comment on how “ sturdy and solid ” this item is, and how it can fit a ton more stuff than you might think. It’s great for keeping in your carry-on and storing your valuables during a trip. 

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The 12 Best Travel Purses of 2024

W hen you're planning a trip, a key wardrobe decision is determining what purse works best for your itinerary. You may want anti-theft features and compartments with space for glasses, passports, sunscreen and more – but you can also find plenty of extras like built-in wallets, hidden pockets and key ring attachments. There's a wide range of different styles on the market to suit your travel purse needs.

To help narrow the options, the editors at U.S. News along with travel experts researched and shared their go-to bags for all of life's adventures.

The Top Travel Purses of 2024

U.S. News editors researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry review sites and more, to come up with this selection of the best travel purses.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - The Best Travel Purses

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. We update this article quarterly to ensure the bags we're recommending are in stock and continue to have great overall reviews from consumers, while also considering new product launches. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

Best Overall: TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody

Dimensions: 10.3 x 10 x 1.8 inches | Weight: 0.9 pounds | Colors: Five, including black with gold hardware and indigo

What sets it apart: This sleek design blends fashion with function. The Tyler Crossbody by TUMI has multiple organizational features, including a spacious main compartment for a passport, camera and other personal essentials; a U-shaped front pocket with a leather card pocket and key leash; two front zippered pockets; and a back slip pocket. The upscale nylon construction is durable yet polished and it can be spot cleaned for when those spills happen. What's more, the detachable leather charm can be monogrammed.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers love this bag because of all the pockets and separate compartments that keep everything organized and quick to find. They say the nylon has an upscale feel, and the overall design works perfectly for travel or daily use.

Price: $295 or less

Shop now: TUMI | Amazon | Zappos | Macy's

Best Crossbody: Lug Skeeter Convertible Crossbody

Dimensions: 6 x 8 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.75 pounds | Colors: Multiple colors and prints, including red with white polka dots and solid options such as black or kelly green

If you love organizational details, the Lug Skeeter is a multicompartment crossbody bag with plenty of potential. You can leave your wallet at home and utilize the front compartment's built-in wallet, with its clear ID window and RFID protection, along with the bungee key ring that allows you to easily find your keys. There's a lined slip pocket with magnetic closure for quick access to your phone − making snapping a selfie oh-so-easy. The main compartment can fit your camera, snacks and personal essentials, with a plastic-lined zippered pocket for sunscreen, lotion or other small liquids. The back zippered compartment is ideal for wipes, a passport or other necessities.

Travelers appreciate: Owners of this style love the material of this bag, which comes in a variety of fun colors and prints. It's wipeable and water-repellent, so that spilled latte or sudden downpour won't be a problem. You can remove the adjustable strap and carry the bag with the top handle, depending on the needs of the day. Plus, the charm bar is a fun way to customize your handbag.

Price: $80 or less

Shop now: QVC | Amazon | Luglife

Best for Europe: Minooy Eirene Crossbody Bag

Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.64 x 2.48 inches | Weight: 1.34 pounds | Colors: Black, brown, caramel and coffee

What sets it apart: When traveling abroad, versatility is key, and this chic design by Minooy offers just that. Constructed of high-quality full-grain leather in a choice of four classic colors, this multicompartment travel purse is packed with details. The separate main zippered pocket keeps everything from lipstick to a phone cord in its place. The crossbody bag offers understated luxury, the RFID-blocking internal compartment has six card slots, and the outside zippered pocket can hold up to an iPhone 14 Pro Max or Galaxy S22 Ultra.

Expert review: Marisa Méndez , senior travel editor at U.S. News, adores this purse. "I love how soft the leather is on this bag as well as all of the pockets and loops for organization," says Mendez. "My favorite feature is that the entire bag is RFID-blocking so I don't need to worry about carrying a wallet; I can just use the card slots in the bag."

Price: $159 or less

Shop now: Minooy

Best Anti-Theft: Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

Dimensions: 11.5 x 13.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.9 pounds | Colors: Multiple colors and prints, including wine-colored roses and solids like black or spruce

What sets it apart: Protecting your valuables is always important, but when you're traveling it's even more vital. This bag features Travelon's patented five-point anti-theft system, which includes slash-resistant handles and mesh panels within the walls of the bag. The bag also offers RFID protection, a locked main compartment, and the ability to fasten the bag to a chair or post to deter a thief in a restaurant, train station or airport.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight construction of the bag, combined with the theft-proof security features and multiple pockets, makes this a traveler favorite. Owners of this bag say it holds all of your travel essentials from passports to sunglasses, and that it holds up well after years of use.

Price: $70 or less

Shop now: Travelon | Amazon

Best Shoulder Bag: Vera Bradley Glenna Satchel

Dimensions: 11 x 12.25 x 8 inches | Weight: 0.88 pounds | Colors: Multiple prints, such as paisley and plaid or solids like green and navy

What sets it apart: Machine-washable and available in an array of eye-catching prints to suit your style, the Glenna Satchel is a large shoulder bag ideal for city adventures, day trips, shore excursions and daily activities. The spacious main compartment has a zip pocket and three slips, along with room for a book, tablet, planner, phone and wallet. There are two exterior slip pockets to stow things like maps or handouts, and a hidden zip pocket on the outside as well to secure smaller items. For added options, the drawstring adjusts the size of the bag depending on your needs.

Travelers appreciate: Fans of this bag praise the functionality and the pretty print options of the satchel. Though, some do note that the straps could be longer.

Price: $110 or less

Shop now: Vera Bradley | Amazon

Best Messenger Bag: Tory Burch Nylon Small Messenger

Dimensions: 8.7 x 7.1 x 3.9 inches | Weight: 0.9 pounds | Colors: Black

What sets it apart: Constructed with a 100% recycled nylon shell and trimmed in leather, this design gives major '90s vibes in all the best ways. The unstructured messenger bag is perfect for travel with an interior compartment for your wallet, phone, keys and more, plus an interior slit pocket and zippered pocket to keep valuables secured. The front exterior pocket of the bag zips, and the back slit pocket is ideal for your phone or items you want to reach quickly. Finished with a magnetic closure flap and a removable crossbody strap, this bag adds an element of style to your travel wardrobe.

Travelers appreciate: Lightweight, practical and functional are a few of the words bag owners use to describe this messenger bag. They say it works well for sightseeing, and that the bag can hold a lot without looking clunky or overstuffed.

Price: $248 or less

Shop now: Tory Burch | Amazon

Raw HTML : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Best Backpack Purse: CALPAK Luka Mini Backpack

Dimensions: 10.75 x 8.75 x 4.5 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Colors: 16 options, including gold and lilac

What sets it apart : Designed with travel in mind, this mini backpack has a luggage trolley sleeve and matches the duffels and other items in the CALPAK Luka collection. You can put your tablet, wallet and other must-haves in the interior compartment; your cell phone and a travel umbrella in the exterior side pockets; your passport in the hidden back zippered pocket; and other items in the front zippered compartment. The bag's lining is water-resistant, the puffy exterior is soft and comfortable to carry, and the straps are adjustable to suit your needs.

Travelers appreciate: The compact and functional design is a key selling point for owners of this bag. They like that it fits an iPad, reading material, a wallet and even a camera. Plus, it's possible to coordinate your purse with other CALPAK luggage items. However, some note the two exterior side pockets could be slightly larger, as they can't hold a water bottle.

Price: $72 or less

Shop now: CALPAK

Best Small Travel Purse: Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small

Dimensions: 8 x 5.6 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Colors: More than 25 color and fabric options, including black saffiano leather or cognac cactus leather

What sets it apart: For a compact design with adaptability, this Lo & Sons design checks all the boxes. This convertible style has a two-part strap to transform into a belt bag, crossbody, clutch, shoulder bag or wristlet with ease. The neatly organized interior compartment has space for your phone and essentials with a three-slot zippered pocket, an interior slip pocket, and an exterior card slot ideal for a room key or transit card. Offered in a choice of natural-grain nappa leather, scratch-resistant textured Saffiano leather or plant-based cactus leather, this style can easily go from day to night or boardroom to ballgame.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag really like the option to adjust the strap to suit the day's events. They compliment the quality construction and overall look, with many saying it's great for travel because it can easily fit into a duffel or backpack.

Price: $210 or less

Shop now: Lo & Sons

Best Packable: LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag

Dimensions: 14 x 9.75 x 5 inches | Weight: 0.84 pounds | Colors: More than 20 options for solids and patterns, including black and seasonal prints

What sets it apart: Made of recycled ripstop nylon, this lightweight and durable handbag can easily be packed into your suitcase and pulled out for use when you arrive at your destination. It lays flat when not full of your belongings. This roomy travel purse has plenty of space in its two main compartments for a wallet, water bottle, cell phone, on-the-go necessities and a few fun things you find along the way. The front has two exterior zippered pockets, and there's a back zippered pocket as well. With the adjustable crossbody strap, the bag can also be worn as a shoulder bag. What's more, LeSportsac continuously adds to the color and pattern choices in this classic bag with everything from Peanuts characters to florals or plaid.

Travelers appreciate: Handbag owners rave about the pockets, durability and color options for this style. Many note while it is great for travel, it's also ideal for everyday use with plenty of space for everything.

Price: $105 or less

Shop now: LeSportsac | Amazon

Best Belt Bag: Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

Dimensions: 9.25 x 5.5 x 2.75 inches | Weight: 0.3 pounds | Colors: 12 options across neoprene and mesh materials, including black, navy and ube purple

What sets it apart: Offered in a choice of neoprene or air mesh, this versatile option is U.S. News' top fanny pack pick . This hands-free belt bag has an adjustable belt, a small front zip pocket (a great spot to stash cash for tipping) and a back panel exterior credit card. The roomy main compartment comes equipped with an elastic loop, a key clip and a card pocket to keep things easy to find.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this belt bag like the quality construction, color options and the overall versatility of the design. They also compliment the fabrication and say it holds the essentials without being bulky.

Price: $95 or less

Shop now: Dagne Dover | Nordstrom | Saks Fifth Avenue

Best Sling Bag: CLUCI Small Sling Bag for Women

Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.5 x 2.95 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Colors: Nearly 20 options, from dark coffee to apricot

What sets it apart: Available in a wide variety of colors, this hands-free crossbody bag is perfect for those on the go. The three zippered pockets are roomy enough for travel essentials like keys, sunglasses, lipstick, wallet and sunscreen. Place your ID and credit cards in the five interior card slots, so you can leave your wallet at home. The back pocket of this sling bag is ideal for keeping important items close to your body to prevent theft, and the adjustable strap makes it comfortable to carry.

Expert review: "My favorite travel purse is the vegan leather crossbody bag by CLUCI," says Sharael Kolberg , a U.S. News travel contributor. "Not only is it environmentally and animal-friendly, it's also stylish and easily fits my wallet, passport, reusable water bottle and snacks. Plus, the front pocket allows easy access to my smartphone."

Price: $25.99 or less

Shop now: Amazon

Best Clutch: Consuela Thunderbird Uptown Crossbody

Dimensions: 8.5 x 5 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Color: Antique white

Perfect for a night out on the town, exploring the city or even running errands, this clutch style is essentially a wallet that can be carried as a clutch or wristlet, or worn as a crossbody. Its eye-catching snake print exterior is trimmed in natural leather and adorned with a hand-woven friendship bracelet, a tassel charm and a hand-painted leather bag tag. There's also an exterior zippered pocket. Open the magnetic closure to reveal two interior zippered compartments for essentials, along with six card slots.

Expert review: "I bought this purse on a whim after seeing it in a Facebook ad, and it's my favorite wallet-style crossbody among all I have owned," says U.S. News travel contributor Holly Johnson .

Price: $215 or less

Shop now: Consuela

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood has had a serious love for handbags her entire life. For everything from daily errands to global journeys, she has tried a variety of travel purse styles from an array of brands, discovering the good, the bad and the very best options. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research expertise to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Editor Picks: The Top Travel Accessories
• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• The Top Toiletry Bags
• The Top Clear Stadium Bags
• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

What to Pack for Russia in Summer: Day to Night Style

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Wondering what to pack for Russia in the summer? Our Russian-born author shares her tips and tricks on dressing for both day and night!

What to Pack for Russia: Summer

Written By: Julia K.

If you made it to Moscow, Russia during summer, you’re in luck. Moscow offers a plethora of beautifully landscaped parks and festivals all over the city. If you want to know how to visit all those locations in style, continue reading!

Traveling to Russia in the winter? Read this post instead.

Packing List for Russia in the Summer

White Top  | Blouse |  Tank | Top |  Shirt |  Pant |  Pants | Skirt | Dress |  Dress  | Jacket | Cardigan | Flats | Wedge | Bag  | Hat

Summers in Moscow can get hot. It can range between 77-86°F (25-30°C) and sometimes be humid. Dressing appropriately, comfortably, and accordingly will save you a headache and make your stay more enjoyable.

Always check the weather forecast before your trip. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Must-see attractions during summer include many parks, such as VDNH, Chistyye Prudy, Izmaylovo and Izmailovsky Park, and of course the famous antique and flea market called Vernisaj.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
• Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

One can see a range of different styles in Moscow. After all, it’s a hub for many travelers, businesspeople, and locals. However, if you’d like to be perceived and treated in a particular way, then pay attention to the way you dress.

You may attract unwanted attention if you wear clothing that’s inappropriate to the local culture. Observe what people are wearing around you and these tips should help point you in the right direction before you arrive.

The following suggestions are based on the perspective of a local born in Moscow.

What to pack for Russia if you’re going to any of the parks:

Blouse | Shorts |  Hat | Scarf | Watch | Sunglasses | Purse  | Flats

• Flat sandals or flats
• Dressy shorts or a midi skirt (no shorter than one hand above the knee)
• A nice blouse
• A crossbody bag
• A hat and sunglasses
• Jewelry and a watch

If you’ll be staying out all day into the evening, wearing layers is key. Pack a shawl or a cardigan for romantic walks next to the Moscow River.

Pro tip: Take a mosquito repellent just in case and apply sun protection wherever you go.

Read this post to find out our stylish strategies on how to layer clothes !

What not to wear:

As a local, I wouldn’t recommend wearing flip flops, short shorts, mini skirts, bright makeup, or see-through clothes. It’s a good idea not to show cleavage, unless you have a layer underneath. Choose understated jewelry instead of flashier pieces.

What to pack for Russia if you’re going to a festival:

Dress |  Hat  | Umbrella |  Crossbody  | Earrings | Lipstick | Watch |  Flats

• A nice day dress
• A pair of comfortable wedges
• A light purse
• A scarf for the evening
• Light jewelry
• Light makeup (bronzer, mascara, lip gloss, blush)

Find out the top ten wedges readers recommend!

Travel shoes:

Flats  |  Wedge |  Oxfords

If you’d like to explore Moscow, then comfortable shoes are a must!

The summer weather is pretty predictable. Based on that, you’ll need three pairs of shoes. One to explore the city, a pair to wear in your hotel room, and something for going out. Think: wedges, dressy flats with a thick sole, and flip-flops.

What are the most comfy shoes? These experts are giving you the inside scoop on their twenty-one top picks. Take a look !

What to pack for Russia if you’re going to enjoy dinner and a ferry ride along the Moscow River:

Top  | Skirt | Jacket |  Sunglasses  |  Wedge  |  Lipstick  | Clutch | Earrings

• A midi skirt or cropped dressy pants
• A dressy blouse
• Comfortable but dressy shoes
• An evening clutch
• A jacket for any unexpected chill

Make sure your clothes are clean and neat, and that there are no flashy colors or over-the-top prints.

Summer is also a perfect opportunity to take a short trip to St. Petersburg, one of the most iconic cities in the world. It’s full of heritage, architecture, galleries, and art, even for the most discerning travelers and art lovers. You can get there by train or plane. Whichever is in your budget, pack with comfort and style in mind!

Whether you’re spending a summer abroad or finally taking that vacation you’ve been dreaming about for years, TFG has the ultimate long term packing list for your European adventures !

What to pack for Russia for a 3-day getaway to St. Petersburg:

Dress  |  Earrings | Clutch | Wedge |  Cardigan  | Tank  | Pants |  Flats | Purse  |  Blouse  | Pants | Jacket |  Scarf | Hat | Flats

• Day/night dress that’s easy to dress up or down with some jewelry
• Comfortable flats to explore the city in
• A change of clothes that covers your knees and shoulders
• A scarf and sweater for when the city becomes cooler during the evening
• A windbreaker
• Everyday jewelry
• A hat to protect yourself from the sun
• A small umbrella

These are the most cute and comfortable ballet flats for travel!

Some museums and churches might refuse service or admission if shoulders and knees are uncovered. I also recommend avoiding jean cutoffs and tank tops, as they may get unwanted attention.

When entering any religious building modesty should be considered, these tips will help you learn how to pack!

Shopping tips:

Moscow has every single store you could think of! From global luxury brands to everyday wear, it caters to many budgets.

If you want to arrive during sale season, then arrive one to two months before the end of the season. You can pick up European-made goods cheaper than in North America. Good shopping malls include Afimall located in Moscow City (another must see) and Evropeiskii located at Kievsky train station.

What are your tips on what to pack for Russia in the summer? Share in the comments below!

For more ideas on what to pack for Russia and Europe, please read:

• Ten-Step Packing Guide for Europe
• What to Wear in Russia in Winter
• Best Shoes for Europe
• What to Wear in Moscow in the Winter

Suggested Travel Resources:

• Lonely Planet Russia (Travel Guide)
• Lonely Planet Russian Phrasebook & Dictionary

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We hope you liked this post on what to pack for Russia in summer. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Julia K is a travel blogger who believes in utilizing every item in her luggage 101%. When at home, she likes to explore what’s new in the world of travel fashion, food, and travel gadgets. Follow her on Instagram ,  Facebook , Twitter , and her blog .

I’m traveling to Moscow in five days and was wondering if I should really not wear shorts. I’ve been to Nizhny Novgorod in the summer and Moscow in the winter so I have a few ideas about what to wear, but I thought that shorts wouldn’t be so bad.

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How to Use the Moscow Metro and Which Stations to Visit.

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: August 20, 2022

Home >> Destinations >> How to Use the Moscow Metro and Which Stations to Visit.

Your first encounter with the beautiful Moscow Metro stations will surprise you. Never has a rail system been more appealing and just a little intriguing. 

Once described as a ” Subterranean paradise for the people”, the Moscow Metro is one of the most extraordinary subway systems in the world

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Metro Stations in the World

We have travelled on a lot of public train systems all over the world. We have marvelled at the modern efficiency of some rail systems, especially in Asia.

We have baulked at the cost of others such as the Tube in the UK and in New York, we pondered which is uptown and which is downtown in relation to where we need to be.

We have also enjoyed a polite attitude to public transport and ease of navigation, in places like Athens.

We have discovered first class can be anything but classy and navigated our way through some of the dirtiest and some of the cleanest train systems the world has to offer. However, we have never come across anything as impressive as the Moscow Metro stations.

How Many Metro Stations are in Moscow?

The first Moscow Metro system opened in 1935 with 13 stations along a single 11-kilometre (6.8 mi) line.

As of 2021, the Moscow Metro has grown to include 241 stations (276 including the Moscow Central Circle Line ) The entire Moscow Metro length is 412.1 km (256.1 mi), making it the fifth-longest metro system in the world. China has the four longest.

Nearly 10 million people commute on the Moscow Metro each day making it one of the most heavily used systems in the world and the busiest metro system in Europe. It is no wonder it is considered a tourist attraction in itself and one of the best things to do in Moscow .

How Deep is the Moscow Subway?

The majority of the Moscow Metro system is underground with 70 deep-level stations, nearly 90 shallow stations and the remainders either on the surface or at elevation.

The deepest station is Park Pobedy Station which is 84 meters, (275 ft). At roughly the same height as a 28 storey building, it is one of the deepest metro stations in the world, behind St Petersburg’s Admiralteyskaya Station which is located 86 meters (282 ft) below ground.

Get a Moscow Metro Map

There are several multicoloured maps of the metro system in each car and there will be an announcement each time you arrive at a station. These announcements should be in Russian and English but may not always be easy to understand, so it will be handy to have a map, or app in English to help you navigate your way.

Moscow Metro Map:

You can download a map of the Moscow Metro in English here . However, using a Moscow Metro App might be more informative.

Moscow Metro App:

Download the official Moscow Metro app which gives you up to the minute information. Or, download apps you can use even when offline. Download the Moscow Metro App for IOS Here.  and for Android Here .

Why Are the Moscow Metro Stations So Beautiful?

Stalin’s vision for the moscow metro.

Stalin had the vision to create a magnificent Metro system that would resemble “People’s Palaces”. His vision was realised in 1935 when the Metro was opened with just 13 stations.

Moscow Metro Art and Design

Every station has a unique design indicative of the era and political leader of the time. Stories of Russia’s history that make you want to keep exploring these “ subterranean palaces “.

Lined with marble and decorated with chandeliers, intricate mosaic artworks, heroic statues and gilded trimmings, the Moscow Metro stations are not merely decorated; they are works of art.

An entire day can be spent station hopping, admiring beauty and opulence that would have received a nod of approval from the Romanov’s themselves. We share a small sample of the best Moscow Metro stations and what you will expect to find in this underground art gallery.

Moscow Metro History

The first underground system in the Soviet Union, the initial metro stations were built by forced soviet labour.  Much of the design and artworks within the stations depict the Soviet Union’s greatest achievements and historical milestones as well as paying homage to Russia’s diverse artistic, literary and architectural legacy.

British engineers were commissioned for the initial project because of their experience with the London underground system. Interestingly, they were later arrested on suspicion of espionage. It was believed they knew too much about the Russian underground system.

How to Use the Moscow Metro System

Not only is the Moscow Metro beautiful, extremely clean and very safe, it is also a cheap way to get around Moscow. Although, travelling on the Moscow Metro can be a little daunting.

It is the second busiest rail system in the world so it can get very crowded. Here are some tips to help you navigate the Moscow Metro.

Navigating the Moscow Metro. Travelling from Station to Station

Travelling between stations on the Moscow Metro can be challenging, especially when it is busy. In addition to using a Moscow Metro app or map, these tips for using the metro will help if you are unsure about stations or lines.

Listen to the Voice on the Annnouncement

• Usually, the announcement of the next station will be by a man’s voice on the trains travelling to the city centre.
• On services travelling away from the city centre, announcements will be a woman’s voice.
• On the circular line – the maroon coloured line, a man’s voice announces the stops if it is travelling in a clockwise direction and a woman’s voice if it’s travelling counterclockwise.

Signage in the Metro

There is a comprehensive signage system throughout the metro system showing the various lines, colour coordinated to correspond with each line.

• You will see overhead signs showing which way to go to access each line.
• Detailed maps on the platforms show the direction of the train, which stations it will stop at and the station you are currently at.
• Large colour coded stickers on the floors show where you need to change lines.

All signs are written in Russian Cyrillic and English. If you get overwhelmed, look for the colour line on your map and the final station on that line and follow the signs.

Exiting the Metro

Most of the metro stations will have several exits. Busy stations in the city centre, such as Kitai Gorod can have as many as 15 exits. For visitors to Moscow, this can be quite daunting.

Exits are all numbered. Look for maps at the exits or signs in lobby areas showing the surrounding area and major sights which can help guide you to the right exit number.

You will also see overhead signs at exits listing the nearby sights, streets, shopping malls, and other reference points to help you navigate.

Around the station walls, you will also see signs guiding you to public transport stops with bus, tram and trolleybus numbers.

With some of the deepest stations in the world, you can expect some very long and steep escalators. The longest escalator in the Moscow Metro is 413 ft (126 metres). Climbing such a long-distance means the escalators also move faster than many people are used to.

Along with the steep angle of the ascent and descent, boarding the fast-moving escalators can be a bit nerve-racking at first. Approach with confidence and don’t hesitate when boarding. Remember to stand on the right of the escalator to allow people to pass.

Avoid Rush Hour

As mentioned, the Metro moves more than nine million people each day around Moscow. If you are planning to spend some time exploring the Metro system, it would be wise to avoid rush hours.

Rush hours on the Moscow Metro are between 8.00 AM and 10.00 AM and again between 5.00 PM and 7.00 PM

During rush hour, the train cars get very crowded and you will have to move fast to get on and off the trains as well as trying to avoid being pushed around too much. It will also be more difficult to read the station names from inside the train cars. This will make trying to navigate the system more difficult and will not be as pleasant an experience.

Safety on the Moscow Metro Watch Your Belongings

The Moscow Metro is well monitored with security staff and cameras so is overall very safe. However, like any busy city, the Moscow Metro attracts large numbers of people including pickpockets. Be extra careful at the most visited tourist stations, especially, on the Circle Line in the city centre.

The fascinating ballroom-like stations on the Circle Line not only attract tourists but is also connected to the 7 out of 9 Moscow railway stations so it always feels busy there. Make sure your bags are secure and zipped up at all times and valuables are secure in inside pockets. We highly recommend a good anti-theft backpack or anti-theft handbag for travelling in cities like Moscow. 

Stay Safe in Moscow: Read Our Best Safe Travel Tips & Anti Theft Travel Gear Guides for a stress-free travel experience in Moscow.

Moscow Metro Tickets

Ticket cost.

• A one way ticket or one trip ticket on the metro is ₽55.00 (less than USD $1) regardless of the length of the trip. Two trips ₽110.00.
• There are no zones so it doesn’t matter how far you travel or how long your trip is. You’ll need a ticket only once at the entrance to the metro. You may change lines as many times within the system on the one fare.
• A day or multiple day passes are also available. You can visit the Moscow Metro website here for full schedule of fares and payment options.

Purchasing Tickets

You can purchase metro tickets in two basic ways:

• Automatic machines –  They are in both Russian and English so are relatively easy to use.
• Ticket booth – If you are not comfortable using the machines look for the ticket booths marked “KACCA”. There are both Russian and English speaking booths – look for ticket booths with a “we speak English” sign. However, if you can’t find an English speaking booth, you don’t need to speak Russian. Just hold up the number of fingers of tickets you need. Once you pay, you will receive a card that will serve as your ticket.
• Card payments are commonplace with contactless payment also possible. However, it is still wise to have cash with you in small denominations to purchase tickets incase cards are not be accepted or you need to use a mchine.

Guided Metro Tours in the Moscow Metro

If navigating the Moscow Metro on your own sounds too daunting, get yourself a Moscow Metro guide who will guide you through the metro system. They will take you to the most beautiful stations while revealing the history and stories that make this one of the most unique underground rail systems in the world.

Guided Metro tours are available for as little as USD $20.00 pp. A guided tour is also a great way to learn how to navigate the metro system so you feel comfortable exploring further on your own.

Recommended Moscow Metro Tours

Small-Group Moscow Metro Tour : See the nine most beautiful underground metro stations in Moscow on a 90-minute small group tour. Includes English speaking guide and metro ticket. See here for full tour details .

Moscow Metro & Bunker-42 Guided Tour: Tour the best Moscow metro stations and Bunker-42. The once-secret military complex, bunker, and communication centre is now a museum devoted to the Cold War between the USSR and the USA. The 2-3 hour tour includes all tickets and guides. See here for full tour details .

15 of the Best Moscow Metro Stations to visit.

A metro station for all tastes.

If it is the baroque opulence of the Stalin years that tickles your fancy or the beautiful sleek designs of modern stations you seek. The Moscow Metro stations have an array of designs that will take you on a journey through Russia’s history and quite simply impress you. These are some of the best stations to visit on the Moscow Metro.

Mayakovskaya Station Line 2 Green

Mayakovskaya Station is on the Zamoskvoretskaya line – Line 2. Used as a bomb shelter during the war, a hospital and even a supreme command headquarters. In 1941, Stalin celebrated the anniversary of the Bolshevik revolution at Mayakovskaya Station, complete with elegant catering for all the attending dignitaries while the Nazis bombed the city above.

The scene was later depicted in the mosaics in the centre of each dome. Historic moments like this captured in various stations shows how fascinating the Moscow Metro is.

Teatralnaya Station Line 2 Green

Teatralnaya Station is on the Zamoskvoretskaya line – Line 2. Named for the nearby Theatre Square, Teatralnaya Station opened in 1938 as part of the second stage of the Moscow Metro construction.

Designed as a tribute to the arts, this pretty station is lined with fluted pylons and white marble salvaged from the demolished Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.

Novokuznetskaya Station Line 2 Green

Novokuznetskaya Station is on the Zamoskvoretskaya Line – Line 2. In honour of Soviet fighting men, seven octagonal ceiling mosaics, bas-reliefs and cast bronze portraits depict soldiers of the Red Army and Russian war heroes.

The large, ornate marble benches that line the platform marble walls were taken from the cathedral of Christ the Saviour and original floor lamps give Novokuznetskaya Station a special ambience.

The central hall is decorated with crystal lamps and bas-reliefs depicting the theatre arts of the USSR made by the Leningrad Porcelain Factory.

Ploshchad Revolyutsii Station (Revolution Square) Line 3 Blue

Ploshchad Revolyutsii Station is on the Arbatsko–Pokrovskaya line – Line 3. Revolution Square is one of the most famous stations and one of the closest stations to Red Square.

Easily one of the most impressive, it is lined with life-size bronze sculptures depicting the people of the Soviet Union; workers, peasants, soldiers, artists and children – 72 in total.

Tradition states it is good luck to rub the nose of the dog depicted in one sculpture and as if by reflex, we barely noticed anyone who failed to do so as they passed.

Elektrozavodskaya Metro Station Line 3 Blue

Elektrozavodskaya Metro Station is on the Arbatsko–Pokrovskaya line – Line 3. A favourite, this station was named after the nearby electric light bulb factory. The concept was to make a ceiling covered with six rows of circular incandescent lamps- 318 in total. Built during the third stage of the Metro construction, Elektrozavodskaya Metro Station opened during WW II in 1944.

The station’s initial architect died during construction and the outbreak of the war halted works until 1943.  Another architect finished the works incorporating an additional theme, bas-reliefs installed on the walls to document the struggle of the war.

Arbatskaya Station Line 3 Blue

Arbatskaya Station is on the Arbatsko–Pokrovskaya line – Line 3. Completed in 1953, the year of Stalin’s death, Arbatskaya Station was intended as a bomb shelter. At 41 metres below ground, this station represents Stalin’s love of baroque. Arched ceilings decorated with ceramic bouquets, ornate bronze chandeliers, and glazed tiles.

Hardly the standard decor of a bomb shelter.  This station was built not long before criticism of luxury Soviet architecture resulted in austerity and functionality began to prevail.

Park Pobedy Line 3 Blue

Park Pobedy Station is on two lines: the Arbatsko–Pokrovskaya line and the Kalininsko–Solntsevskaya line. 

Park Pobedy (Victory Park) features a modern design in hues of red marble with mosaics depicting great Russian victories including the 1812 French Invasion on the inbound platform and World War II on the outbound platform. However, beyond interior design, there are a number of interesting facts and features of Park Pobedy station.

At 84 metres (276 ft), Park Pobedy is the deepest station in Moscow and the fourth-deepest in the world by mean depth, and the deepest station by maximum depth, 97 metres (318 ft).

Park Pobedy has the longest escalators in Europe. At 126 metres (413 ft) long and with 740 steps each it takes approximately three minutes to reach the surface.

It is the only Moscow metro station where passengers board and alight trains in different locations. 

The two platforms are identical in design but with opposite colour schemes. The outbound platform has pylons faced with red marble on the transverse faces and pale grey marble on the longitudinal faces. The inbound platform is the exact reverse. 

The unique structural design. The Park Pobedy tunnel lining included steel blocks filled with concrete instead of traditional cast-iron tunnel lining. Reducing the amount of structural metal consequentially reduced the overall cost of construction.

Slavyansky Bulvar Station   Line 3 Blue

Slavyansky Bulvar station is on the Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya Line, between Kuntsevskaya and Park Pobedy stations – Line 3. Opened in 2008, Slavyansky Bulvar is one of the more modern metro stations.

The shallow underground station hall sits at around 10 meters, lined with sleek finishes of green Cuban marble “Verde Guatemala”, granite, aluminium and beech.

However, the green Art Nouveau flourishes chosen by Architect S.Volovich, similar to those that adorn the entrances to the Paris Metro system, give Slavyansky Bulvar station an almost whimsical beauty. 

Taganskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

Taganskaya Station is on the Koltsevaya line – Line 5 Circle Line. Opened in 1950 Taganskaya Station is named after the Taganka Square, a major junction of the Sadovoye Koltso ring road.

Despite the fairly practical naming inspiration, the pylon station is anything but boring. 

Post-war flamboyance is at the forefront of the design based on traditional Russian motives. 

The central feature of the station – 48  maiolica  panels on each face each pylon with floral elements and bas-reliefs of various World War II Red Army and Navy servicemen. 

The colour of the panels are balanced in such a way, those facing the central hall are on a soft blue background, while platform panels are monochromatic. Lit by 12 gilded chandeliers, Taganskaya is a very elegant station.

Between 1950 until 1958 it was the deepest station in the Moscow Metro. 

Komsomolskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

Komsomolskaya Station is on the Koltsevaya line – Line 5 . By far the fanciest of all the stations, Komsomolskaya is more like a grand ballroom than a train station.  Opened in 1952 as part of the second stage Metro expansion, this baroque masterpiece honours the memory of Nevsky, Donskoy and other great military leaders in the ornately gilded mosaics on the ceilings and walls.

Prospect Mira Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

Prospekt Mira station is on the Koltsevaya line – Line 5. Located on the central Circle Line, it’s easy to see why the incredibly ornate station is a favourite with visitors to Moscow.

Designed by architects Vladimir Gelfreykh and Mikhail Minkus, the station was initially named  Botanichesky Sad  after the Botanical Garden of Moscow and State University located nearby.

Opened in 1952, the station underwent significant modifications in 1958, removing a wall at the end of the station to make way for a transfer station on the Rizhskaya line. In 1966, both stations were renamed Prospekt Mira to avoid confusion. 

The station’s design reflects the botanical influence of the original name in the intricate floral ceramic bas-reliefs trimmed in gold above flared marble arches. In the centre, medallion bas-reliefs depict aspects of agriculture in the Soviet Union. But the cylindrical crystal chandeliers add the finishing touch to the station’s grandeur, creating a magnificent ballroom atmosphere. The station was closed between 2015 and 2016 for complete restoration and remodelling works. 

Novoslobodskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

Novoslobodskaya Station is on the Koltsevaya line – Line 5. Stain glass panels form the central theme for this station opened in 1952. Architect Alexey Dushkin had long wanted to utilise stain glass as the central feature of a metro station.

Dushkin persuaded a renowned artist, Pavel Korin to compose the artworks for the panels and the rest of the station was designed around the 32 stained glass panels, each surrounded by elaborate brass borders. The concept was to create the impression of an underground crypt.

Kievskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

Kievskaya Station is on the Koltsevaya Line, Line 5 Circle line. An open competition held in Ukraine for the design of Kievskaya Station attracted 73 entries.

The winning team of E. I. Katonin, V. K. Skugarev, and G. E. Golubev focused the station’s theme on the Russo-Ukrainian unity from the time of Pereyaslav Rada in 1654 to the October Revolution in 1917, evident in the large, bright mosaics throughout the station and the portrait of Lenin in the main hall. The station is a true monument to the Soviet era and Soviet Russia. 

Stark white granite and marble arches accented with gold flourishes lit by central chandeliers against the bold mosaics is almost overwhelmingly elaborate. 

One of the station’s entrances features a reproduction classic Art Nouveau Paris Metro entrance by  Hector Guimard . The entrance was given to the Moscow Metro by the Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens in exchange for a piece by Russian artist Ivan Lubennikov installed at Madeleine station in Paris.

Aviamotornaya Station Line 8 Yellow

Aviamotornaya Station is on the Kalininsko–Solntsevskaya line – Line 8. A tribute to Russian aviation, Aviamotornaya Station’s design is entirely in the spirit of flying. 

The most striking feature of the station is the ceiling in the central hall covered with four-sided anodised gold pyramids depicting the universe. At the end of the impressive foyer, an imposing metal sculpture depicting the flight of Icarus. An ode to the lives of aviators and inventors lost in the pursuit of flight. 

The lighting on the platforms gives commuters the sense of movement and flying with the impression of an aeroplane jet streams and triangular lighting to represent an aeroplane tail wing. 

Located 53 metres (173 feet) underground, the beautiful station was the location of a terrible escalator accident in 1982, causing the death of 8 people and injuring 30.  You can read more about the incident here .

Dostoyevskaya Station (Dostoevsky) Line 10 Light Green

Dostoyevskaya Station is on the Lyublinsko-Dmitrovskaya line – Line 10. A Moscow Metro station for die-hard literary fans.

A bid to honour one of Russia’s most celebrated writers and greatest thinks has been shrouded in controversy from the get-go. Opened in 2010, named after the famous author Fyodor Dostoyevsky, the station is beautifully stark with bare grey walls except for colourless murals depicting scenes from Dostoevsky’s most famous novels, including  Brothers Karamazov, The Idiot,  and,  Crime and Punishment. 

The controversy started when elements of the station’s design were published online. Two scenes of violence, including scenes of homicide and suicide depicted on the station walls, sparked debates within the internet community. Psychologists expressed concern about the dark murals saying the violent scenes from Dostoevsky’s books could put commuters in equally dark moods or even provoke suicidal impulses.

The beautifully stark station caused controversy on its opening in 2010 after people objected to a mural depicting a murder scene, to which the artist responsible replied: 

Ivan Nikolayev, 69, the artist commissioned to create the murals, spent 20 years rereading Dostoevsky’s books and making sketches for the project. In response to the controversial reactions to the station’s works, the artist replied: “I was tasked to draw the meaning, creativity and entire life of Dostoevsky. “What did you want? Scenes of dancing? Dostoyevsky does not have them.”

More Moscow Metro Stations Worth Visiting

If you have time and want to see more interesting stations on the Moscow Metro, the following stations are worth your time for their unique design and architecture.

• Line 1 Red:  Krasnye Vorota, Kropotkinskaya, Okhotny Ryad, Vorob’yevy Gory ( The only station located on a bridge across the Moscow River)
• Line 2 Green:  Novokuznetskaya, Avtozavodskaya, Dinamo
• Line 5 Brown:  Belorusskaya, Park Kultury
• Line 6 Yellow:  VDNKh
• Line 7 Purple:  Pushkinskaya, Kuznetskiy Mot, Spartak
• Line 9 Grey:  Nagatinskaya

The Future of the Moscow Metro

So while Stalin’s initial vision of “People’s Palaces” may have waned somewhat during the peak Soviet Russia years where function was favoured over form, the concept of original and unique Metro stations never faded.

As Russia continues to expand its Metro system to become the third-largest in the world, the desire to create unique and beautiful spaces continues.

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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 .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

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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