travel purse europe

Ultimate Guide To the Best Travel Purse for Europe

Europe Packing List , FASHION , Handbags , Travel Packing Lists

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If you’re heading to Europe, a purse or bag is a major essential for your day-to-day outings, and you’ll need to make sure it’s practical, safe, and cute, too. Check out this thorough guide to the best purses for travel that tick all the boxes!

Best Travel Purses for Women

Table of contents.

When packing for a trip to Europe, you’ll want to make sure you bring a purse that’s secure, functional, and fashionable! Plus, the style you choose should accommodate how much you need to carry and the activities you’ll be doing.

A good example is the purse I took to Europe in 2022, which s a sleek crossbody, the Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B . It has an edgy stud design and a polished sheen, and enough organization that I could manage my essentials while out and about. I felt confident and put together carrying it around, and it’s definitely become a purse that I use for travel and at home. (The black color pictured below is no longer available, but you can get other colors at Rebecca Minkoff–take a look here !)

In Europe, with my Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody and wearing the Gevomir Halter Dress with Taos Star Sneakers , and Madewell Sun Hat

I was able to take my Rebecca Minkoff crossbody for sightseeing around the island of Santorini, all the way to the Colosseum in Rome, transitioning from day to night easily. Security, but also versatility, matters when it comes to the best purses to travel Europe .

Below, find out what style of bag is best, as well as how to keep your belongings safe while you explore the history and romance of Europe. Enjoy this ultimate guide to cute womens travel purse options that boast comfort, security, and style!

The adorable Lola Mae Crossbody is budget-friendly and stylish for Europe

What’s the Best Purse for Travel to Europe? 

Crossbody purses are usually a top choice among readers for European travel, as they’re comfortable and easy to carry, great for visiting museums, and are overall super convenient to use. They’ll also keep your things secure, as the bag will be visible to you at all times, and securely strapped around your body. 

If you’ll be out and about for long periods of time and need to bring more things with you, or if you’re traveling with your family, a backpack is the way to go. They’ll offer plenty of room for jackets, snacks, water bottles, a camera, and any other sightseeing must-haves! Plus, they’ll distribute the weight on both of your shoulders, which will feel a lot more comfortable throughout your explorations. 

One of the most popular backpacks for Europe is the Lo & Sons Rowledge

If you like to carry only the essentials, like your phone, wallet, keys, and lip balm, opt for a fanny pack or a sling bag . These bags are often convertible, so you can wear them on your waist or around your shoulders, and because they’re compact, they’re super light and easy to carry around all day. 

This MZ Wallace Belt Bag is stylish and practical because it stays close to the body!

If you want to be minimalist, bring a crossbody phone purse ! Many of these styles have a built-in wallet, so everything you need will be safely carried around your neck and easy to reach. Readers love crossbody phone bags and cases because they not only make it easy to grab your phone and quickly snap the perfect photo, but having it close to your body means your valuables are extra safe and sound, and won’t run the risk of being dropped or stolen.

Travelon Anti-Theft Purses are highly popular for European cities for safety and security

Do I Need an Anti Theft Travel Purse in Europe? 

Many readers love the security of theft proof travel purses while they travel so they can have the utmost peace of mind. If you’re going to be carrying valuables like a camera, a wallet with cash and cards, a passport, or any other special items, using an anti-theft purse might be the best purse to travel with . TFGs recommend Travelon , Pacsafe , and Sherpani (as an excellent budget option) the most as top brands that have built-in security features and cute-looking bags!

However, if you want to carry around something a bit more fashionable, simple, or just have a particular style of purse in mind, there are many other ways you can deter theft and stay safe while you travel! 

One product that readers recommend for non-anti-theft bags is a locking keychain carabiner that you can use to clip your phone case or keys to your purse, or even to clip the straps of your purse together.

The best travel money belt voted by readers is the Alpha Keeper

Other popular options are a money belt and a secret bra stash . Read this article on the best anti-theft travel accessories for more great ideas! 

While Europe is generally very safe, pickpocketing and theft can definitely happen, especially in tourist-heavy or overly crowded areas, but there are plenty of ways to keep your things safe, whether you use an anti-theft bag or take extra security measures. Find out how best to avoid pickpocketing in Europe here , and some awesome general tips for avoiding theft while traveling here ! 

Now, let’s break down more ideas for the best purse to travel to Europe that readers vote for again and again!

If you’re unsure what kind of day bag to bring, read this tip guide on how to choose the right one! 

Best Crossbody Travel Purse for Europe

The wonderful thing about travel crossbody purses is that they’re highly versatile! They can be used for travel solely or also used in everyday life. And many are also convertible, so they can be worn across the shoulder or slung over during casual outings. And, of course, ones with anti-theft features like RFID technology, locking zippers, etc., make the grade for European travel, like these top reader picks!

Shop: Amazon |  Walmart | Macy’s

Travelon Signature Travel Purse Crossbody Bag

If you’re looking for the utmost in safety, readers agree that Travelon   is the best crossbody purse for travel . Their safe travel purses, like the Signature are equipped with all the safety features you could need, from locking zippers and slash-resistant material to RFID-blocking pockets and lock-down straps that you can secure to a chair or table. Beyond its amazing security, their bags are easy to carry and has plenty of room for storing your essentials – including things like an iPad.

One reader absolutely loves hers, “I’ve had my Travelon crossbody bag since 2015, and it has been all around the world with me! It holds SO much stuff and has held up great!” 

You can stick with the sleeker-looking Travelon Signature purse that’s excellent for the fashionable streets of Europe. Or the Classic Essential messenger bag is another reader favorite that’s simple and compact in design yet works perfectly as a secure day bag as well. 

Shop: Quince

Quince Small Travel Purse Crossbody

From the quality leather to the gold hardware, this Quince Italian Leather small cross body travel purse is a stunning option for Europe. Not only is it a chic accessory, but it’s just spacious enough to store your sightseeing necessities while keeping things minimal and lightweight. This purse is thoughtfully constructed with a durable canvas lining, an inner zip pocket to keep your valuables safe, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit. 

And for such wonderful quality, the price is fantastic. One reviewer says, “This bag is so beautiful – lovely, high-quality leather, zipper works perfectly, and exactly the right size. It fits my larger wallet, phone, small makeup bag, and sunglasses – perfect for traveling or a day out. I pack this in my suitcase when I travel, so I have it for days out exploring.”

Shop: Amazon |  Tumi |  Bloomingdale’s  |  Nordstrom

Tumi Tyler Stylish Travel Purse Crossbody

For the best travel purse crossbody for European getaways, readers often look to Tumi purses, which combine great utility with impeccable style. The Tyler crossbody bag is a chic little option that will securely hold your necessities while you’re out and about. Readers say that despite its small design, it can hold a great amount, and when not in use, it conveniently packs flat! 

A reader who loves her Tumi travel purses says, “The pocket on the front is great for plane tickets and passports when flying. I use them as everyday bags as well. I love them because they can dress up or down and look great for work travel or personal travel. And mine have taken a beating and still look great. I also know from other bags that they stand by the warranty.”

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in  this review !

Shop: Amazon |  Zappos  | Bloomingdale’s

Baggallini Calais Anti-Theft Travel Purses Crossbody  

When it comes to travel purses with RFID Baggallini is a traveler’s best friend! The Calais crossbody is lightweight and highly practical for sightseeing days. The fabric is water-resistant and has RFID-blocking technology, and it comes in a range of fun colors and patterns. This purse has great interior organization and is so stylish it can go from a long day at the Louvre to a Parisian dinner easily! 

One user gives their review, “Perfect size for my European travel . It has lots of nooks and spaces for things, great outside pockets, interior dividers, and a key lanyard, which I keep tucked in the back snap pocket. It’s cute too!”

Shop: Madewell | Nordstrom

Madewell Sydney Small Purse for Travel

This cute travel purse from Madewell looks compact, but it opens wide to fit plenty of items for the day – users say it’s shockingly roomy! Super functional for your travels, the Sydney comes with an adjustable and removable crossbody strap and will keep your things safe inside with a strong, magnetic closure. The color options for the leather are pretty and so unique, too!  

One happy user says, “Perfect for travel! Cute and stylish, it can be worn casually or for a night on the town. Love it! And great quality as always!”

Shop: Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Pearl Small Crossbody Purse for Travel

Beautiful, versatile, and beyond functional, it’s no wonder the Lo & Sons Pearl women’s crossbody travel purse is so popular with TFG readers! It has three compartments and plenty of variously-sized pockets, so if you like every item to have a designated space, you’ll adore this bag. It’s constructed with high-quality leather that’s not only available in a wide range of colors, but also comes in a vegan leather version!  

As a bonus, you can switch up the straps to turn it from a crossbody by day to a wristlet by night. A reader shares, “I love my Pearl. Perfect for travel! I used it all summer as my everyday bag, it’s been tossed around and well-traveled, and there’s not a mark on it.”

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Shop: Amazon |  Sherpani | Zappos

Sherpani Prima Anti Theft Purse for Travel  

Sherpani offers some of the best anti theft travel purse options that are cute and affordable. The Prima is a small purse that is durable but has some nice styling to still feel Euro-chic. This has great features, including water-resistant fabric and many interior pockets! 

As a major bonus, it has a lot of anti-theft features, including RFID protection, lockable zippers, and a chair loop lock system, as well as slash-proof straps and lining. One reader reports, “Had peace of mind while traveling in European cities. Easy to carry, the strap could not be cut, RFID protection, and comfortable.” 

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Shop: MZ Wallace | Bloomingdale’s

MZ Wallace Crosby Cross Body Purse for Travel

Both chic and edgy, the MZ Wallace Crosby women’s travel purse is a perfect option if you like a larger bag but still want something crossbody and easy to carry. This purse features a lovely quilted design with leather trim and silver hardware, while the interior is amazingly practical, with durable lining, six pockets, a detachable pouch, a phone pocket, and a key ring strap! 

You can switch it up from a crossbody to a shoulder bag with different straps, too. A reader says, “I love my MZ Wallace crossbody. It comes with three straps, so it’s versatile for travel and everyday use, and you can dress it up with the chain strap.” 

To complement your cross body, try an adorable wristlet, like the ones found here !

Best Travel Backpack Purse for Europe

Some travelers feel nervous carrying around a backpack while exploring Europe, which is valid! Readers recommend packs with hidden or secret pockets or buying one that has anti-theft features. And, of course, it’s wise to not put anything important in front pockets, just in case. Whatever pack you choose, TFGs all agree it should be a combination of cute and functional—see the following reader recommendations to see what we mean!

Shop: Amazon |  Macy’s | Kohl’s

Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Lightweight Purses for Travel

Roam around with complete peace of mind in one of Travelon’s best anti theft purses for travel , the Signature Slim backpack that readers adore! It’s roomy but not heavy or bulky, has a classic and versatile design, and with all the incredible anti-theft features (including slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking card slots), everything inside will be super secure. 

And as if it wasn’t travel-friendly enough, the sleek material is water and stain resistant! One reader says, “I took this backpack with me to Europe and loved it. I kept all my important things in it, and nothing was stolen in Prague , Paris , or Munich !”

Shop: Amazon |  Tumi | Zappos | Saks Fifth Avenue

Tumi Large Travel Purse Backpack

Tumi’s chic bags are always a go-to for readers and are said to be some of the best purses for European travel due to their chic style and practicality. The Voyageur Celina backpack which is a similar to Carson is perfect if you need to tote around a larger amount of items, as it’s quite spacious. There are plenty of zippered pockets, both inside and outside, and there’s even a padded laptop sleeve!

This bag will hold up amazingly well over time and will always add a sophisticated element to your travel looks! One reader shares, “I used a Tumi Voyageur Carson backpack daily when I was flying weekly for work. It took a ton of abuse/spills, etc., and cleaned up great. Years later, it still looks nearly new. Very worth the money.”

Shop: Longchamp | Bloomingdale’s | Nordstrom

Longchamp Le Pliage Lightweight Travel Purse Backpack

Always a reader fave, the Le Pliage womens travel backpack purse is high quality and majorly chic. Inside the durable nylon exterior is a water-resistant lining and plenty of room for a day’s worth of necessities. This stunning bag is perfect for wandering through the high-fashion streets of Paris , but makes a great personal item on flights, too!

As a plus, it neatly folds flat for easy storing when not in use. One reader shares, “I love mine. Holds lots of items, opens easily to get things in and out, and feels secure.” 

Read more about why readers consider this bag the best backpack purse for travel in the full review here !

Shop: Rebecca Minkoff | Zappos |  Bloomingdale’s

Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Travel Purse Backpack

Many TFG readers say the Julian backpack from Rebecca Minkoff is the best small travel purse ! This beautiful leather purse for European travel is ultra-practical, with three compartments and tons of pockets to keep everything secure and organized, including a secret back pocket that’s perfect for storing money and other valuables. It’s spacious inside, and can be dressed down for sightseeing or dressed up for a nice dinner! 

One reader says, “I LOVE this bag for travel and use it as my purse/personal item. It easily holds everything I need for a day out and about — my friends call it my Mary Poppins bag!” 

You can also get this cute bag in the smaller Medium size , or in the larger Jumbo size . Find out more about this backpack in the full review here ! 

Shop: Amazon |  Pacsafe | Walmart

Pacsafe CX Citysafe Secure Travel Purse Backpack

Another fantastic anti-theft option, readers consider this Pacsafe Citysafe backpack one of the best travel purse backpack options for Europe. Adorable look aside, this bag boasts great organization with plenty of pockets while weighing in at just under a pound, not to mention its great security features! Some readers call it the safest purse for travel , with its interlocking zippers, cut-resistant straps and fabric, and RFID-blocking technology, 

Not only that, but this versatile beauty has a trolley sleeve. A reviewer shares their experience, “ I ordered this backpack for my recent trip to Europe. I used it as my personal item on my flights, and it fit perfectly on my carry on luggage, so I didn’t have to lug it around. I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of stuff I was able to fit inside. Overall, I felt like my personal belongings were safe and secure through my travels in Budapest and Hungary . I definitely recommend this backpack!”

Looking for a backpack with a trolley sleeve? Find the best here !

Best Convertible Backpack Purse for Europe

One thing readers express a lot regarding a capsule wardrobe is having enough outfit options without overpacking, and this sentiment extends to travel purses for Europe ! The solution to not bringing several bags is choosing one that can be worn in many ways. The most popular type is a backpack that converts into a shoulder bag, crossbody, or a tote. These uber-cute choices will pair beautifully with any travel outfit!

Shop: Amazon | Kohl’s

Travelon Classic Convertible Secure Travel Purses

Tiny but mighty, this Travelon anti-theft backpack purse for European travel is perfectly compact, simple in style, and super secure. All of the compartments lock, the material is fully slash-resistant, and the interior has RFID blocking card and passport slots. It can hold the day’s essentials – and maybe even a few souvenirs! 

And at under a pound, it definitely won’t weigh you down! One traveler raves, “ I had Travelon bags in the past, so I was looking for one to use on my recent trip to Europe. I really like the security features with the zipper locks and RFID pockets. This backpack was the perfect size for me; not too small and not huge either. I converted it to a crossbody purse a few times. I highly recommend this bag, especially for traveling! ”

Shop: Amazon |  Zappos | Walmart

Baggallini Soho Safe Travel Purse Convertible Backpack

You’ll have peace of mind in knowing that your belongings are safe and sound inside this convertible Baggallini safety travel purse . It offers lockable, pickpocket-proof zippers, a removable RFID-protected wristlet, and slash-proof fabric and straps!  

It has a luggage sleeve, a laptop compartment, and water-resistant material, and still manages to be very lightweight and comfortable to carry. You can switch how you wear it too! One reader puts it simply, “My Baggallini bag has been a perfect travel purse for years.” 

The Naples convertible backpack is a daintier option that’s very popular with readers and is perfect for the bare essentials, but chic enough to tote in Europe!

Shop: Amazon

Telena Anti Theft Backpack Purse for Travel

Telena’s cute anti theft purses for travel offer incredible security, organization, and durability all in one beautiful package! This backpack is made of soft, water-resistant faux leather, and uniquely zips open from the back to keep your belongings safe. Aside from the roomy main compartment that has quite a few pockets, there’s a secure front zipper pocket, a side zipper pocket, and two side pouches, so keeping your things in order will be a breeze! 

One traveler says, “I’ve used this backpack as a purse for a few months, including dragging it all over Europe for 2 1/2 weeks. Somehow it still looks brand new! I love the security of the big pocket being up against my back for those tight subway rides, and the many other pockets make it easy to store a lot and stay organized. The fabric is scratch and water-resistant, too.”

Shop: Amazon | Sherpani | Zappos

Sherpani Soleil RFID Travel Purse Backpack

Readers rave about how functional the Sherpani Soleil theft proof purses for travel are! The fabric is lightweight, water-resistant, and super durable, so it makes a wonderful travel buddy for sightseeing in the city. It offers a great amount of storage space with TONS of pockets both inside and out, including two open side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas.

As a major bonus, it has great anti-theft features, including lockable zippers, anti-slash fabric, and a handy chair loop lock system so that no one can take off with it when you set it down! 

Readers seriously love this Europe travel purse ! One gives an impressive review, “I have traveled for eight years with this mini backpack. No matter how much I fill it, it evenly distributes the weight and isn’t heavy. The anti-theft features make it something no one wants to even try messing with on crowded trains or crowds in general. A must-have travel investment!”

This Cheruty backpack is a more casual-looking option that readers love, and it has great anti-theft features, too! 

For even more convertible backpack, review these reader faves!

Best Sling or Belt Bag for Europe

Sometimes the ​​ best purse to travel in Europe is something small and compact! The trend of sling bags and fanny packs shows no signs of going away, and readers love them to look less conspicuous but also love that they sit close to the body and hold sightseeing essentials. Maybe one of these stylish picks will call to you!

Shop: Amazon | Macy’s | Kohl’s

Travelon Anti-Theft Convertible Mini Travel Purse Sling

Wander around your European destination with complete comfort and security wearing Travelon’s Metro anti-theft belt bag ! The main compartment has a zippered pocket, RFID-blocking card slots, a key clip, and plenty of room for a phone, wallet, sunglasses, and a few must-have cosmetics, and securely locks shut! The clean look will match all of your travel outfits, and wearers say it’ll last for years and years of travel! 

You can also carry it crossbody to switch it up! One TFG reader wore hers in Barcelona and says, “I used the Travelon fanny pack every day. The zippers all latched, and I had very easy access to my phone, metro card, glasses, and credit cards. A bonus was that my neck didn’t get achy from a heavy purse. This was absolutely perfect for international travel, and I’ll definitely use it on all future trips!” 

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Leather Travel Purses /Sling Bags  

Talk about a cute travel purse! If you’re looking to travel light, the Lo & Sons cross body purses for travel will make a gorgeous addition to your travel wardrobe! Made of sleek, high-quality leather (which is also available in a vegan leather option), it’s sized to fit just the necessities. It’ll elevate any sightseeing outfit and will work with your dressier, going-out looks, too! 

Wear it on your waist, crossbody, or as a wristlet! One user says, “Took this bag to Europe for my honeymoon, and wow – it was the best. Went with every outfit, was easy and versatile to use, fit all of my essentials for full days of walking around and exploring, and was great for walking through the airport hands-free. Loved it so much I bought a second in another color.” 

Readers also recommend the Bond , a cute fanny pack that’s a tad more spacious, has plenty of pockets and an antimicrobial lining, and can also be worn on your waist or as a crossbody!

INICAT Small Travel Purses /Sling Bags 

INICAT’s best small purse for travel is a must if you want something super compact yet still practical. It’s lightweight, comfy to carry, and designed to fit all of your little essentials for the day’s adventures with two zippered compartments and four card slots. The adjustable strap will fit securely around your body and can be worn on your front or back. It’s made of quality faux leather that looks sleek and stylish and comes in a lot of colors!

One user shares, “Used this while traveling to London and Paris . It was perfect to hold my documents/credit cards/phone etc. Didn’t look like a tourist and kept my items safe from theft on the metro/museums etc. It was very comfortable and very convenient for quick access to my items. Would highly recommend it!” 

Shop: Monos

Monos Metro Vegan Leather Travel Purse Sling

This gorge Monos Metro sling bag is constructed with water-resistant and scratch-resistant ultra-microfiber vegan leather that’ll look great with everything and hold up well throughout many, many travel adventures! It’s small yet packable, with interior pockets, a keychain carabiner, and a hidden back pocket to keep your phone, wallet, or passport extra secure. It can be adjusted and worn in a variety of ways for an amazingly comfy fit that moves with you. 

One wearer says, “I bought this sling for a two-week trip to Europe. It fit so much but didn’t feel large across my chest. It went with every outfit of the trip. I always felt that my belongings were safe while traveling!” 

Want more small, cute bags? These best sling bag s might do the trick!

Best Tote Bags for Europe

While it may not seem like an obvious choice, the best totes for travel can also double as a bag for your European trip! They can be a personal onboard item, a sightseeing option, or even be used to store souvenirs for the journey home. And bonus, most travel-friendly totes pack flat. Take a look at these practical and gorgeous picks!

Shop: Amazon | Macy’s

Travelon Womens Tote Bags

Travelon’s travel totes for women can be worn on your shoulder or as a crossbody, and while it’s amazingly functional in design, it has a simple and sleek look, too! It can fit a ton and has all the bases covered in terms of preventing theft, with lock-down straps that you can secure to stationary objects, locking zippers, and slash-proof and RFID-blocking material. 

To top it off, this tote has awesome organization, water and dirt-resistant fabric, and a pretty, versatile look to pair with all of your travel outfits. 

One user reports, “ Best secure travel purse that doesn’t look like one! Took it on a three-week Europe trip and didn’t want to carry anything else. Holds a ton without being bulky, can be worn multiple ways, and has a great number and placement of pockets.” 

For a more relaxed womens black tote bag , the Travelon Boho is quilted fabric but is equally as chic, and has room for a 15.6″ laptop. It has RFID protection and numerous organizational pockets. It comes in more than black, as you can choose between Gray Heather and Mosaic Tile. 

Shop: Amazon | Tumi | Nordstrom

Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Large Tote Bags for Women

The Tumi Packable womens travel tote bags are a huge favorite among travelers who know they’ll be bringing some goodies home from their vacation! It packs down into a teeny pouch for easy packing into your suitcase or storing when not in use, and opens up into a super spacious and durable tote bag equipped with sturdy handles and a trolley sleeve for easy carrying!  

And the print is so fun! One TFG says, “I love it! It’s big but so lightweight and folds small!”

Shop: Longchamp | Nordstrom

Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon/ Leather Tote Bags for Women

You can’t go wrong with these chic Longchamp Le Pliage womens large tote bags – they’re versatile, classic, and big enough to hold the travel necessities, plus a sweater and a souvenir or two! The Le Pliage tote is made of smooth, sturdy, and water-resistant nylon embellished with quality leather trim, and is lightweight and easy to carry. It comes in a range of colors and folds flat for easy storage! 

Tons of TFG readers say these are the best tote bags for women , and one reader reports, “Love mine. It usually heads to Europe in my suitcase and then I use it there and carry it home!”

Choose from the medium or large  size depending on how much space you need throughout your travels! They also have sustainably-made canvas tote bags for women . They’re also available in medium and large .

Lo & Sons Seville Womens Tote Bag

If organization is important to you, you’ll adore the Lo & Sons Seville laptop totes for women ! Inside this bag, you’ll find a TON of variously-sized pockets as well as a padded laptop sleeve, and on the outside, a large front zipper pocket for your easy-to-reach essentials. Aside from the practicality, the structured nylon and leather trim make it a super cute accessory, too! 

One reader raves, “Lo & Sons bags are my favorite! The Seville tote is excellent.”

Shop: Amazon |  Zappos | Macy’s

Baggallini Avenue Travel Tote Bags for Women

This one is a major favorite with TFG readers! Casual yet cute, Baggallini’s Avenue womens laptop tote bag is the perfect go-to bag for a day of sightseeing, as it’ll hold everything you need and feel comfy on your shoulder all day! It’s super lightweight, with sturdy, water-resistant fabric, and interior organizational pockets and card slots. 

More great features of this tote include a 13” laptop compartment, a removable and adjustable crossbody strap, a trolley sleeve, and the fact that it’s machine washable! One reader shares, “It has great space inside for everything I need. Love how spacious it is, and it slips over my luggage handle as well. Highly recommend it if you travel a lot!”

Sherpani Cali Anti-Theft Large Totes for Women

Another great anti-theft option, Sherpani’s Cali laptop tote bags for women are cute, roomy, and comfortable to carry. There are plenty of interior pockets – including a water bottle pocket and a laptop sleeve, plus it has exterior pockets, RFID protection, lockable zippers, and a chair loop lock system to keep your belongings completely safe and sound. The Cali tote is made of quality nylon fabric which makes it lightweight, water-resistant, and durable! 

A user says, “This bag is the perfect size for me! It’s secure and has plenty of pockets! I love Sherpani!!” 

For more stylish travel totes, read this post to scour for extra ideas!

Best Crossbody Phone Purse for Europe

When on a European trip, it only makes sense to keep our phone inside a bigger purse, right? Not always! Some readers use small purses for travel that hold only a phone and a few pieces like ID or cards to be photo-ready or look up directions easily while combining that with another bag while on the go. If it’s a light sightseeing day and you don’t want to take a lot with you, but still want access to a device, just taking your crossbody phone purse works well! Readers adore and trust these options to keep their devices safe (plus, these are so chic and would look fab with any capsule wardrobe ). 

Shop: Amazon |  Bandolier

Bandolier Emma Phone Crossbody Purses for Travel

If you want to keep things ultra minimal, this Emma crossbody case from Bandolier is all you need! This phone case crossbody is super popular with readers, and it makes the perfect chic accessory that’ll keep your valuables safe and close by at all times. It’s made of high-quality leather and has a rear pocket for cards and cash that snaps shut and an adjustable strap. 

The Sarah crossbody case is a similar design, but the strap is adorned with gold studs! 

A reader says, “I bought mine for a trip to France and have used it many times since. The best part is being able to easily look at your phone and take pictures without taking your phone out of your bag or pocket all the time, and it keeps you looking polished in the nice leather case.”

LAMEEKU Travel Crossbody Purse

Lameeku’s crossbody is another secure and functional option that doubles as a stylish accessory. It features a long, adjustable strap and a zippered wallet on the back with room for cards and some cash, plus it’s lined with RFID-blocking technology, so all your valuables will be safe and in sight at all times. The quilted faux leather adds a chic element and comes in three colors! 

One TFGer says, “I have this crossbody phone case and love it! No need to open your purse to pay, you can just scan. And it has a little pouch for your ID and cash!” 

As an alternative to phone crossbody purses, readers have suggested phone lanyards that attach to your existing phone case to keep them safe both from being dropped while taking photos or from being lost or stolen. Readers also like this short coiled tether that can be attached to the inside of a purse or can be worn as a secure wristlet. This phone lanyard with two strap options is another highly recommended pick for sightseeing!

Quince Phone Crossbody Travel Purses

This phone crossbody purse from Quince will hold your phone, cards, cash, and even a few other items like sunglasses and lip balm. Crafted from beautiful pebbled leather, which comes in a range of colors, it’ll keep your essentials organized and at the ready during your travel explorations. It’s versatile, super secure, looks really cute, and is of amazing quality, all at a budget-minded price point! 

A user shares more, “This is the perfect little crossbody! Fits my phone and keys and has a few credit card slots built in! The leather is high quality, and the bag is well constructed with clean stitching and simple hardware.” 

Find out the best ways to keep your phone safe while traveling here ! 

Best Messenger Bags for Europe

A classic messenger bag tends to be bulkier and used for commuters, but the travel messenger bag can be lightweight, cute, AND hold a tablet or small laptop (should you need to use one during your trip). The following range goes from standard purses to bags that can hold a bit more if needed! Did we mention they’re adorable too? 

Shop: Amazon | Macy’s | Walmart

Travelon Anti-Theft Small Messenger Bags for Women

Travelon’s slim messenger bag is compact and easy to wear, yet can fit a great amount. Equipped with slash-proof fabric, locking compartments, and RFID-blocking tech, no one will be able to get inside this bag but you! And for more functionality, they’ve added a roomy front pocket and a removable LED light! 

A reader reports, “I bought this for a recent trip to Europe. It was the perfect size to carry a day’s worth of touring necessities—a camera, wallet, hat, phone, iPad, maps, travel booklets, and souvenirs. I felt safe even in London and Amsterdam .”

Ecosusi Faux Leather Messenger Bag

Ecosusi’s faux leather messengers are beyond cute, pairing a classic style with unique details and functional features. These stylish messanger bags have multiple pockets for organization and a padded laptop sleeve which makes this awesome if you’re traveling for work. The exterior is sleek, high quality, and super durable, and it comes in a variety of color options! 

A reader raves, “I love this bag. I travel a lot and needed something that was not only durable but also comfortable to carry. The adjustable shoulder strap makes this one of the most comfortable bags I’ve run through an airport with. Fits my laptop, power cord, and some files. Perfect purchase!”

Away F.A.R. Messenger Tote Bags

Away makes super cool messenger bags that are streamlined yet offer incredible organization for a girl on the go. The fabric is super sturdy, abrasion-resistant, and water-resistant–ready for everything from a hike to wandering around museums. But it’s also lightweight enough to counter all of the travel necessities you bring and goodies you pick up along the way!

Bonus points go to the responsibly-sourced, recycled materials and fun color options!

Time Resistance Leather Messanger Bags

This leather messenger bags womens option from Time Resistance is stunning! It’s a great purse if you’re looking for something a bit smaller, but with three compartments and a secure zip pocket, you’ll be able to easily fit the essentials and then some! To top it all off, this leather crossbody messenger bag is adjustable, comfortable to carry, and is handmade in Italy with gorgeous, high-quality leather! 

A user shares more, “I love my bag. The leather is full grain which is the best you can get. There are so many pockets and zippers, making organization a breeze. It’s understated but classic.”

Want to see what other messenger bag options out there? Check out our roundup on the best!

Europe Travel Purse for Women Comparison Chart

What do you think is the best purse for European travel ? Share and comment below!

For more travel bags for Europe, please read:

• What are the Best Travel Bags with Trolley Sleeve?
• Best Laptop Bags for Women Travelers 
• Best Convertible Backpack Purses 
• Best Camera Bags for Women

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Thank you so much for this article. As someone who travels quite a bit I’m always trying to find a more comfortable, stylish, and sleek bag for my travels. A good combo between a purse and backpack is hard to find. You’ve introduced me to some new potential ones to choose.

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The 11 Best Travel Purses of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your belongings at your side with these T+L-approved travel purses.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Other Purses We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Organization while traveling is key, so we recommend having one designated spot for storing travel essentials like a passport, money, and technology. While you can store these items in a bigger bag en route to your destination, a more portable bag like a purse, mini backpack, or sling bag may be a better option.

We consulted our Travel + Leisure staff as well as other industry experts across our team to get recommendations for travel purses that are tried and true by frequent fliers. We received  submissions from over 30 seasoned travelers for bags they've used anywhere from six months to over four years all around the globe. We selected 11 purses that received the highest praise and broke down why we think you’ll love them, too.

Best Overall

Lo & sons o.g. 2.

Lo & Sons

• Capacity 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

The large purse has a pocket for every travel essential you could ever need to pack.

It can get heavy when it’s packed full.

Lo & Sons makes some of our favorite travel bags, so it’s no surprise that this one came highly recommended for its spacious capacity and superior organizational features. The large shoulder bag comes with a padded laptop pocket that can store and protect devices up to 13 inches long, or you can place a laptop up to 16 inches in the main compartment, but it won’t be in the padded section.

For any other travel essentials, this bag has you covered with plenty of small pockets in the main section of the bag for phone chargers and snacks, and there’s a water bottle pocket to stay hydrated on the go. The front zippered pocket has smaller pockets inside to store grab-and-go items like a phone, wallet, and passport. Best of all, the bag has a discrete side pocket for a pair of shoes when you're using it as an overnight bag. And, of course, the more you pack the nylon bag, the heavier it will get, but it does have a trolley sleeve for securing it to a suitcase if it feels cumbersome to carry.

The Details: 16.5 x 13.75 x 6.75 inches | Nylon, Nappa leather | Water resistant | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Overall, Runner-up

Cheruty backpack purse.

The stylish backpack has a modular design so you can carry it three ways.

The anti-theft design makes it less convenient to grab items.

Versatility is key with a travel purse, so we love that this backpack purse can be carried in multiple ways. While the purse is designed for use as a backpack with the built-in backpack straps, it also has a top handle and removable crossbody strap to convert the style as desired. Our favorite part of the backpack is the anti-theft design featuring a main compartment that is only accessible from the back zipper. There is a front zippered pocket to store small items like lip balm or a phone charger and the interior has four zippered and slip pockets for staying organized. The anti-theft design makes it a little less convenient to grab items quickly, but it offers peace of mind in crowded spaces since it’s much more difficult for pickpocketing to occur. This bag also earned praise for being effortlessly stylish thanks to the sleek faux leather look over two dozen color options.

The Details: 12.6 x 5.9 x 12.6 inches | PU leather | Convertible | 9.7-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote

The nylon material is super lightweight and easy to wipe-clean on the go.

It doesn’t have a top zipper.

Looking for a purse that’s easy to pack? Quince’s nylon tote bag is impressively lightweight whether you’re toting it around while sightseeing or packing it away in a bigger suitcase. While we love a leather bag, nylon material can be a safer option for travel since it’s easy to spot-clean with some soap and water on the go, and is typically lighter so it won’t weigh down your shoulder when packed full of the essentials. This tote’s interior has designated pockets for a laptop and water bottle, and various slip and zippered pockets to organize smaller items. For security reasons, it would be nice if the bag had a zip-top instead of a magnetic closure, but the slim design of the bag makes it easy to keep it close to you while traveling. The tote also has two exterior slip pockets and it comes in Oxford blue, olive, and black color options.

The Details: 17 x 13 x 7 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Shoulder Bag

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

• Capacity 2 /5

The nylon bag is easy to compress and pack down for excellent portability.

It’s not big enough to store tablets or laptops.

Crescent bags are a bit more stylish than a traditional fanny pack, but the style offers similar security to a sling bag that rests on the upper body. The simplicity of this Uniqlo shoulder bag makes it an excellent choice for travelers in search of a packable bag to store the essentials. It’s big enough to carry a phone, wallet, passport, or other smaller items, but it isn’t large enough to hold laptops or tablets. If you need to consolidate your personal belongings before getting on an airplane, this nylon bag compresses down and can be folded up to seamlessly fit in a backpack or carry-on. The water-resistant bag is also machine washable and comes in seven earthy colors. And, the purse is the most affordable option on this list if you can’t choose just one color.

The Details: 11 x 7 x 3.9 inches | Nylon | Water resistant

Travel + Leisure / Abigail Moore

Best Fanny Pack

Dagne dover ace fanny pack.

Dagne Dover

• Quality 5 /5
• Capacity 4 /5

The spacious fanny pack is made with durable and waterproof neoprene fabric.

Dirt and dust are easily attracted to the fabric.

If you’re traveling somewhere damp or rainy, you’ll want a purse made of waterproof materials to protect your belongings. This Dagne Dover fanny pack is made with the brand’s signature neoprene material that wards off inclement weather and rough handling thanks to the thick cushion of the fabric. While we love the protective material, it is prone to catching dust and dirt, but it can be easily spot-cleaned so it isn’t a deal-breaker by any means. The interior is big enough to fit phones, wallets, eReaders, and sunglasses with plenty of room to spare, but it isn’t so large that it feels bulky to wear. The nylon strap can be adjusted to wear the fanny pack comfortably around the waist and shoulder or as a crossbody sling bag, which is ideal for versatility while traveling or running errands. There are several slip pockets and a zippered one in the front to store and organize small items and the fanny pack comes in six color options.

The Details: 9.25 x 5.5 x 2.75 inches | Neoprene | Water resistant

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Crossbody

Baggallini everywhere bagg.

The lightweight materials and adjustable crossbody strap offer all-day comfort.

The interior could benefit from a divider to separate the spacious compartment.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is travel expert-endorsed largely due to the fact that it offers superior comfort compared to other crossbody bags on the market. The entire bag and strap are made of a lightweight nylon fabric that won’t rub or dig when it’s being worn across the body or as a shoulder bag. Large enough to fit an iPad or tablet, the purse has an impressive capacity for storing everything from the bare necessities like a wallet and keys to tech gadgets for air travel. The medium-size purse is chock full of pockets on the inside and outside, and there’s even a discrete side pocket for easy access to phones or wallets. The main compartment has a pocket for tablets and a few small slip pockets, but we wish there was a divider or more pockets to prevent items from getting lost in the bottom of the bag. We also love that there is a trolley sleeve in the back and the bag comes with an RFID-blocking removable wristlet as a thoughtful touch.

The Details: 11 x 9 x 5 inches | Nylon | Water resistant

Best Clutch

Radley london sundown avenue weave medium flapover clutch.

Radley London

• Capacity 3 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

The compact purse can be worn as a crossbody bag or carried as a clutch.

The chain strap is not adjustable.

For travel looks that require a chic purse to complete the outfit, we recommend this convertible clutch from Radley London. It’s made with high-quality genuine leather with a woven design and elegant gold hardware that gives the purse a truly elevated design. And for the best part: it comes with a removable chain to style the purse as a crossbody or carry it as a clutch for upscale events like weddings or fancy dinners. The chain strap is effortlessly chic, but we wish it was adjustable or slightly longer since the shorter chain is a bit awkward to use with the bag. The size is small enough to fit in a backpack or suitcase, and the magnetic-closing bag can fit various small items like lipstick, credit cards, and a phone.

The Details: 11 x 6 x 4 inches | Leather | Detachable chain strap

Best Packable

Longchamp le pliage original backpack.

The backpack can fold up to a fraction of its original size.

It doesn’t offer any pockets for organization.

If you don’t want your travel purse to count as a personal item or carry-on for flying, Longchamp’s packable mini backpack is a game-changer for saving space. While the bag is already smaller in size, it can fold up with the help of built-in snap-closures to compress the backpack into a small rectangle that packs flat. The bag can then be placed into a large piece of luggage for travel and unfolded to create the perfect purse for a day of sightseeing. It can hold bulkier items like a tablet, camera, water bottle, and wallet without feeling heavy or weighed down. One thing to note is that the bag doesn’t offer organizational features like pockets, so you may want to use a small pouch to organize smaller items. The recycled polyamide canvas backpack looks elegant and it comes in seven color options, but if backpacks aren’t your preferred way of carrying items, the brand also carries a similar packable Le Pliage Original Tote Bag that came highly recommended by T+L travel experts, too.

The Details: 11 x 10.2 x 3.9 inches | Recycled polyamide canvas

Best Machine Washable

Baggu nylon crescent bag.

• Value 4.8 /5

You can toss this nylon bag in a washing machine after a trip for hassle-free upkeep.

Consider air-drying the bag to prevent pilling or shrinkage.

Traveling can speed up the typical wear and tear on a purse, especially for frequent fliers, so this machine-washable bag from Baggu makes it easy to breathe new life into it after trips. Baggu bags are notorious for being easy to pack and this larger crescent purse is no exception thanks to the flexible nylon material that can easily be compressed and folded. The medium size is surprisingly spacious with a large main section for water bottles, snacks, wallets, and a travel tablet , and two slip pockets for lip balm and keys. Plus, the nylon strap is adjustable for the most comfortable fit whether the bag is packed to the brim or with just a few items. Since all travelers have different styles, we love that the bag comes in various solid colors and bold prints to please everyone. While the bag is machine washable, we recommend hanging it up to air dry to prevent any shrinking or damage from a dryer.

The Details: 13.75 x 8 x 4 inches | Recycled heavyweight nylon

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Mesh Bag

Bloomingdale's

The material has plenty of stretch so it can hold bigger items like beach towels and jackets.

You’ll want to store keys and lip balm in a separate pouch since smaller items can fall through the mesh.

Whether vacationing somewhere tropical or swinging by the farmer’s market, this Longchamp mesh bag is a must-pack. Compact and easy to store in a bigger purse, the bag turns into a Mary Poppins bag once you begin packing it. From jean jackets to beach towels, the cotton mesh material has the slightest bit of stretch to hold bulkier items without anything falling through the perforated design. It can also store fruit, veggies, and flowers if you come across an unexpected farmer’s market while traveling. For smaller items, we recommend using a smaller pouch to keep keys, lip balm, and other skinny items safeguarded from the netting. Depending on your personal style, the bag comes in six color options featuring neutrals like white and brown or bolder colors like pink and green.

The Details: 15 x 12.2 inches | Cotton, gold hardware

Best for Laptops

John fluevog shoes nashua laptop bag.

John Fluevog Shoes

• Value 4.5 /5

This compact laptop bag comes with tote handles and a crossbody strap that offers both a comfortable and convertible design.

Larger laptops might be a tighter fit.

This recommended John Fluvog leather laptop purse offers protection for your technology while traveling. It’s basically a laptop case with straps to carry it as a crossbody or tote bag, so we love that it’s specifically designed for computers. The removable crossbody strap is made with the same soft leather material and it boasts two little pockets to store small items like lip balm or earbuds that are easy to access from the strap. The interior has a designated slip pocket that can store laptops up to 15 inches long, but anything bigger might be a tight squeeze or not fit at all. Aside from a laptop, travelers can store small water bottles, snacks, notebooks, headphones, or any other essentials in the spacious main compartment. There is a front zippered pocket to conveniently access boarding passes or a phone while traveling. With several color and texture options, shoppers have the choice between black and blue color options made with soft pebbled leather and a brown color made with sleek smooth leather.

The Details: 15 x 11.25 x 2.25 inches | Pebbled leather

Other Travel Purses We Liked

Several travel purses still came highly recommended, but didn’t have as much praise compared to our winner’s list.

Madewell The Transport Saddlebag : The crossbody bag has lots of space to hold travel essentials, but the leather strap isn’t the most comfortable for long periods of time.

Senreve Midi Maestra Bag : We love that the modular design makes it easy to carry the bag in three different ways, but the medium size is a bit awkward for travel since it’s too small to hold a laptop and too bulky to pack in a suitcase.

With recommendations from T+L editors and other trusted travel experts on our team, we compiled this of tried-and-true travel purses. While we accepted all submissions, we narrowed the list down to 11 options that stood out for quality, capacity, and portability. Each bag recommended has been used for at least six months (some have been tested for over four years) and has traveled all around the world with us on various trip types.

Tips for Buying a Travel Purse

Know your storage and organization needs.

Whether you’re a minimalist or maximalist packer, there’s a travel purse out there to fit your needs. For travelers in need of extra space for larger wallets or laptops, we recommend a tote bag or medium-size backpack that often have designated pockets for items of different sizes. Crossbody, sling, and shoulder bags are best for storing just the essentials like phones, credit cards, earbuds, or a small wallet. For an even more streamlined option, a phone purse could be a good choice.

Prioritize comfort

Comfort while traveling is essential, so if you know you’re an over-packer, opt for a backpack or purse with thick, padded straps to help distribute the weight and provide cushioning. In general, you want to look for bags that don't have thin straps (often crossbody bags) since this can often cause discomfort or rubbing.

Think about anti-theft protection

Pickpocketing is a very real threat when traveling and the best way to avoid it is by making sure all of your valuables aren’t easily accessible. Anti-theft protection in travel purses can vary, but the common traits include discrete pockets in the back or interior of the purse, lockable zippers, and cut-resistant fabric.

A personal item is anything (allowed on an airplane, of course) that can fit underneath the seat. That means that purses, backpacks, totes, shopping bags, or laptop cases can count as your allotted personal item. If the airline is strict about personal items, you can always stick your purse inside of a backpack or carry-on to consolidate the number of items.

It depends on the material the purse is made out of and the type of fabric lining. In general, purses should come with manufacturing cleaning instructions, but if not, you can always opt for some soap and water to gently spot clean until you can get the bag professionally cleaned or into a washing machine if allowed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna sifted through testing notes from dozens of bag submissions and pulled from her knowledge of travel accessories to recommend the best travel purses.

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The Best Travel Purse for Europe in 2024

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

While planning an epic adventure abroad can be one of the most exciting things in life, finding all of the perfect gear to take with you can be one of the most frustrating and tedious things you can do before you set off on your trip. In particular, finding the best travel purse for Europe can be tricky if you’re looking for a balance between style and security.

While many people might be happy just donning a typical day pack while setting out and exploring an unknown city, many people prefer the style and convenience of a purse or handbag — myself included.

Especially if you’re planning on travelling in Europe, the tattered daypack from your backpack isn’t going to cut it on the high fashion streets. Not only are backpacks not particularly stylish, but they also have the added nuisance of making you look like a tourist and therefore a target to potential thieves and scammers.

So if you’re looking to find the perfect travel purse to take to Europe, then browse through this article to figure out what features you should be looking for along with my top suggestions.

Want a quick answer? My personal choice for the best travel purse is the Pacsafe Citysafe Convertible Backpack (also available direct from Pacsafe here ).

Table of Contents

Travel Purse for Europe Comparison

What to look for in a travel purse.

There are a few distinct features that you should keep an eye out for when you’re in the market for the best purse for travelling abroad.

First and foremost, you want to look for a travel handbag that is easy to keep an eye on and difficult for those pesky pickpockets to get into. This means that you should always look for a crossbody or shoulder bag for travel.

Having a purse that you can wear across your torso will make it difficult for a quick thief to just grab it from you and run. It will also make you more able to keep a casual hand on it while you are wandering through busy streets and tourist centres where theft might be more likely.

The second feature you need to look at is how easy it is to get into. A handbag that has, say, just a magnetic closure, might be convenient if you want to access your items quickly, but it also makes it easy for a thief to do exactly the same — especially if you’re distracted by all of the amazing sites you are seeing while navigating an unfamiliar place.

Look for a travel bag with multiple zipper pockets or buckles that can either be locked or take more than a couple of seconds to open. The best thing to keep in mind when trying to avoid petty theft while travelling is that pickpockets look for convenience over anything, so a bag that is difficult for them to just grab will deter most.

Finding a purse that gives your  important items and documents maximum security with minimal effort on your part is an essential factor for enjoying your trip to Europe. I have only travelled with crossbody purses and (touch wood) have avoided being robbed thus far.

The last thing that you should look for is how lightweight and packable the handbag is…especially if you’re backpacking or travelling carry-on only . It is unlikely that you will carry your purse on a plane or bus with you, especially with such strict requirements that some airlines have when it comes to personal items in the cabin.

So, in an effort not to take up valuable luggage space and not add unnecessary weight to your bags, finding an easily packable and lightweight travel handbag for going abroad is absolutely essential.

One last feature that is worth keeping an eye out for when searching for a purse is to see if the bag has any RFID block capabilities. While this isn’t absolutely essential, it can give you the peace of mind that your credit cards and travel document aren’t going to be victim to scanner scams.

Scanner scams (where a thief can just scan the data on your passport or credit cards) aren’t nearly as common as you might be led to believe, especially with the advanced preventative technology in most modern credit cards and passports.

Best Travel Purses for Europe

Now that you know which features to look for while finding the best purse to travel with, take a look at these fantastic options for travelling abroad. They all combine the best features that I outlined earlier, with different style-options depending on your own particular tastes.

Pacsafe Citysafe Convertible Backpack

This handy little bag really gives you the best of both worlds and very well might be the best backpack purse for European travel.

The Pacsafe Citysafe Convertible Backpack (also available direct from Pacsafe here ) can either be worn as a traditional backpack or switched to a crossbody bag and looks stylish while doing it.

The Citysafe comes in a range of colours to suit any personality and has a ton of features to boot. There are numerous compartments and interior pockets, all with interlocking zippers and anti-theft technology that make getting into this bag nearly impossible for thieves.

It is also lined with RFID-blocking technology and has a slash-proof exterior so no one can pull a “cut and run” on you.

This sleek and stylish bag is also a great option if you’re travelling light as it can transition seamlessly from day to night with just a few simple steps.

So many anti-theft travel purses tend not to look all that fashionable, however, the Citysafe will protect you from pickpockets while also not aiding you in committing a style faux pas while wandering the streets of Paris or Rome.

The interior of the bag is also quite spacious, especially if you’re wearing it in the backpack form. There is ample room in the main pocket for essential daily items like a water bottle, a camera, a tote bag, and a guidebook and it can even fit an average-sized tablet!

The smaller outer pockets are perfect for stashing your wallet and mobile phone and are also equipped with anti-theft zippers so you don’t have to worry about them getting easily snatched.

Travelon Anti-Theft Bucket Bag

If you’re not fond of backpacks and are looking for the best crossbody bag for travel in Europe, then look no further than the Travelon Bucket Bag . Travelon continually produces some of the best purses for international travel and the Anti-Theft Signature is no exception.

Equipped with some advanced anti-theft technology, this bag is spacious and comfortable to wear across your body for a long time.

The adjustable shoulder strap is slash-proof and allows you to easily attach it to a chair leg or post so you don’t have to worry about someone running off with it while enjoying an espresso or glass of wine at a streetside cafe.

There are multiple pockets where you can store your things and the interior is spacious enough to hold a book, camera, and water bottle with some room to spare.

While it is not as sleek and fancy as the Pacsafe option mentioned above, it is still cute and trendy and will be perfect for going out during the day. It may not be an appropriate travel purse to take to a nice restaurant or fancy bar, however.

The Travelon Bucket Bag also has a dedicated passport and credit card slots in the purse that have RFID-blocking technology in order to keep your important items and documents safe from scanners.

Baggallini Original Everyday Crossbody Bag

If you’re looking to maximise your space and luggage weight without sacrificing convenience when trying to find the ideal travel bag, then the Baggallini Original Crossbody Bag (also available on Zappos here ) might be the best option for you! This handy little travel bag is incredibly lightweight without sacrificing volume.

Though there are no external pockets on this purse, there are a number of pockets inside allowing you to easily organise your items efficiently. The entire bag is also equipped with RFID-blocking technology to ensure the safety of your most important documents and credit cards. 

Its simple design is also incredibly durable and water resistant, which means it won’t get damaged even if you’re strolling around London without your umbrella. It comes in a range of colours as well.

Though the Baggallini Original Crossbody Bag isn’t equipped with the slash-proof technology or locking zippers of the above two options, it still ranks as a great contender to take to Europe, particularly if you’re visiting places where pickpocketing and petty theft aren’t as common.

Travelon Anti-Theft Tailored Hobo Crossbody Bag

If style is your number one priority in finding the best fashionable anti-theft crossbody travel purse, then the Travelon Tailored Hobo is a fantastic option for you.

Sleek and stylish, this spacious bag is the perfect purse for the fashion-oriented traveller who also wants her items to have the maximum amount of protection possible.

Available in a variety of colours, this bag is also equipped with fully locking compartments, a slash-proof should strap (that is also easy to secure around a chair or table leg), and RFID-blocking technology.

It is very slim, so it packs down quite small and is also lightweight so it is the perfect addition to any minimalist packing list without sacrificing style.

Basically, if you’re looking for a quality medium-sized purse to use while you’re travelling, then the Travelon Tailored Hobo is one of the best travel handbags for you.

Pacsafe Citysafe Crossbody

If you are looking for a small travel purse to take with you on your trip, then the Pacsafe Citysafe Crossbody (also available direct from Pacsafe here ) might be one of the best travel crossbody bags you could choose.

Containing much of the same features as the Pacsafe travel bag listed above, the Citysafe Crossbody comes in a variety of colours and has a classic and simple design that can easily transition from day to night.

Despite its smaller size, there are still a number of inside and outside pockets in order to effectively organise your things. It can also be expanded into a large bag if you need space.

The purse is equipped with RFID-blocking technology, a slash-proof strap, locking and secure zippers, and is waterproof. It is just the right size to carry your mobile phone, sunglass case, a tote bag, wallet and maybe even a small, travel-sized umbrella.

The exterior of the Pacsafe Citysafe Crossbody is also water resistant, so neither the purse itself nor your items inside will be damaged if you encounter some rain.

Pacsafe Citysafe Anti-Theft Mini Backpack

If you’re looking for a convenient yet stylish backpack for your Europe trip, then the Pacsafe Citysafe Anti-Theft Mini (also available direct from Pacsafe here ) is an absolutely fantastic choice for you.

Equipped with sophisticated anti-theft features, you can have peace of mind when strolling down a crowded European street while keeping your hands free and your shoulders evenly balanced.

Unlike a number of travel backpacks, the Anti-Theft Mini is also incredibly stylish and will ensure that you blend in well with the locals rather than sticking out like a tourist and making you a further target for theft.

To add an extra layer of security, this anti-theft purse boasts RFID-blocking technology, a slash-proof fabric, locking zips and cut-resistant straps (that can also be removed to secure around a table leg or luggage rack).

It comes in a range of colours and, for its size, can hold quite a lot — including a 13-inch laptop!

Baggallini Everywhere Bagg

If you’re on the hunt for a water-resistant and lightweight crossbody bag for Europe, then make sure to have a look at the Baggallini Everywhere Bagg (also available on Zappos here ).

This bag is both practical and stylish and has a number of anti-theft and travel features that are sure to impress.

This stylish travel purse is perfect for those looking for something that is incredibly practical but also doesn’t sacrifice style. Though it isn’t the most trendy of travel bags, it has a classic look that can easily blend in wherever you’re travelling.

It can fit quite a lot, has a number of different zipped compartments and even has a strap in order to easily secure it to your luggage. It also comes with its own RFID-blocking wristlet wallet in order to safely store your credit cards, mobile phone and passport.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bagg comes in a variety of colours to suit anyone’s personal tastes and styles.

With a seemingly endless array of options, it can be really difficult to find the best purse to travel with. If you keep an eye out for a few key features and know which styles you like, however, then you will have no trouble at all finding the best anti-theft travel purse for Europe!

Are you looking for a purse for travelling abroad? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

18 Must-Have Backpacking Europe Essentials

The Best Travel Jacket for Europe (Women’s & Men’s)

The Best Mobile WiFi Hotspot for International Travel

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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13 Best Purses For Traveling In Europe

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Purses For Traveling…

A travel purse can either make or break your trip to Europe. Since you’re going to spend a lot of time being outside, you’re going to need a reliable purse. The best purse for traveling in Europe should be able to hold fashion without compromising its function. Choosing the wrong bag for traveling in Europe can really result in an awful travel experience. From sore shoulders from lugging it around the whole day, not having the right size to pack all your things, to even worst—having them stolen.

Whether you’re roaming around an ancient neighborhood or having a refreshing experience in small towns in Europe , you’ll need the best handbag for traveling in Europe. If you need a larger purse, consider getting the best bags for traveling in Europe instead.

How to Choose the Best Purse for Traveling in Europe

Before picking up the best cross body bag for travel in Europe, there are several things you should consider. While needs may vary according to each individual, your bag should at least have these features below. This is to ensure you’ll have a safe and sound trip across the pond.

Security Features

The best purse for traveling in Europe usually features some kind of security tech. One of the most popular securities found in travel purses is the Radio-Frequency Identification or RFID. Usually, you can find it featured in the bag’s pocket. It’s where you can safely store your credit card since RFID is meant to protect your identity from being stolen. Aside from RFID, an advanced and locked zipper is also common. You’ll easily notice anyone trying to unzip your bag.

Size and Compartments

While our preference of a bag size can vary, your purse should be able to hold your most valuable items. Items you should never leave at the hotel include passport/ID, hotel keys, and your wallet or credit cards. All things considered, a travel purse with a compact size should be your most favorable option. Apart from functionality, a compact size purse tends to be lightweight and easier to carry. Another plus point if it has enough compartments to make your items easier to organize.

It’s no brainer that your travel purse should be comfortable at all times. Especially if you’re going to spend most of your time on foot, traveling from one place to another. The best cross body bag for travel in Europe should hang comfortably over your shoulder. You don’t want to end up with strain after a long day of traveling.

What kind of purse is the best for travel?

Simply put, the best purse for traveling in Europe should be two things: safe and comfortable. With the many available choices, there’s something for everyone today from the market. But not all of them cover two of the most important features in a travel purse. If you find the right bag that’s safe and comfortable, you should look for no more. Especially if it comes with a friendly price tag!

Should you carry a backpack in Europe?

Backpacks are generally suitable for traveling in Europe. They’re easy to maneuver in most places; whether you’re taking the stair to your hostel or having a trip on a train. Backpacks are also roomy enough to fit 1 – 2 weeks of clothing. So yeah, if you’re planning to carry your backpack on your next trip to Europe, you’ll be good to go.

Are Kipling bags good for travel?

Kipling is popular for its backpacks and sling bags. And to this day, it’s many people’s favorite because of its very lightweight material, making it very suitable as a travel bag. Kipling backpacks, bags, and luggage also offer fun colors and designs. It’s more than enough to satisfy everyone’s tastes and preferences. Spending your money on a Kipling travel bag is worth every penny. And it should last as it’s made durable.

LoZoDo Women Satchel Handbag

With a great number of reviews online, LoZoDo Women Satchel Handbag passes the mark as the best handbag for traveling in Europe. The first thing that attracts buyers is the super friendly price tag. For a handbag with decent leather quality, it costs less than 30 USD.

Of course, it’s not the only reason why it’s the best purse for traveling in Europe. People are praising how stylish it looks and it does the job well. The storage is roomy enough to store your traveling essentials from passport to sunscreen and a bottle of water. Not to mention how you can style it both as a handbag and shoulder bag. People are excited about how this affordable bag is exceeding their expectations. It makes a great gift idea as well! Truly the best purse for traveling in Europe.

What We Love

Exceeding expectations and provides beyond its low price point.

• Very affordable
• Perfect for traveling
• Good quality
• Durability issues

Baggallini Everyday Traveler Bag

Speaking of the best purse for traveling in Europe, there are many reasons why Baggalini bags are the cult classic. And it’s mainly because they have everything people look for in a traveling purse: from reasonable price tag, sturdy and well-made design, to great choice of models and colors. Baggalini bags gain many fans online because of these particular reasons. And their latest Everyday Traveler Bag is no exception.

The new and improved Everyday Bag makes up for its big sisters’ flaws. And people are very satisfied with the improvement. You’ll notice how the current version is equipped with a built-in wallet inside. With RFID pockets and two main compartments, this bag holds all your traveling essentials in one. Most importantly, it gives you the peace of mind you deserve as you’re having leisure.

Anything you need in the best cross body bag for travel in Europe!

• Equipped with RFID
• Sturdy design
• Convenient built-in wallet
• Zippered compartments
• No cons found so far

Zocilor Women’s Multipurpose Purse Backpack

For the most part, people love Zocilor Women’s Multipurpose Purse Backpack for its look and function. The backpack holds spacious storage and is stylish enough without having to break the bank. As the name suggests, the backpack is convertible into a shoulder bag. The colorful single strap is a great finishing touch to its overall design. Providing you extended comfort as you carry it throughout the old European neighborhood.

Available in several charming colors, the bag is simply cute. The company claims that it’s made of high-quality PU leather, vegan leather, as well as a poly fabric lining. The material is also water-repellant and it provides enough room if you’re planning for a long day trip in Europe. For all these reasons, it’s hard not to mention it as the best purse for traveling in Europe.

Great design with charming style and very functional.

• Great size; not too big or too small
• Multiple ways to carry
• Made of sturdy material
• The straps are too bulky
• It looks expensive, may attract robbers

Kenneth Cole Reaction Runway Call Nylon

Planning a business trip to Europe soon? Kenneth Cole Reaction Runway Call Nylon is the perfect bag for you. What makes it the best handbag for traveling in Europe is particularly because there aren’t many bags like it. Most traveling bags are made casual and are not meant for business travel. And your daily work purse may also not be the best option if you’re taking it for travel. People are happy with Reaction Runway Call Nylon because it’s ideal for both situations.

The bag size fits under most airplane seats, making it very easy for storing. You can put most of your traveling and working essentials in the bag, including your laptop. Have we mentioned that it’s a rolling laptop bag? Yep, it’s equipped with a handle and you can drag it around for easier maneuvering.

You can find three compartments built in the bag, making it easier for you to organize each of your items. Some of the pockets are also equipped with an RFID security system, another plus for a traveling bag.

A highly functional handbag for when you need to do a business trip to Europe.

• Side pocket for water bottle
• Strong handle
• The compartments keep your things organized
• Not suitable for traveling heavy

Estalon Leather Crossbody Bag

If you’re more of a practical person, Estalon Leather Crossbody Bag is the right choice for your trip to Europe. It’s made of great quality leather and provides enough room to carry all your traveling essentials. The bag has the typical leather smell right out of the box but it’s only temporary and you’ll be able to comfortably use it.

As you can see from the picture, it has that cool rustic design. But most people suggest that the bag needs a little breaking in before finally looking as pictured. It comes with a great selection of colors and you can get your hands on it just for 40 USD. All things considered, it’s the best cross body bag for travel in Europe!

A stylish and functional leather crossbody bag.

• Great leather quality
• Perfect space for your traveling essentials
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Some users reported durability issues

MUNDI Jacqui Vegan Leather Crossbody Purse

If you’re a practical person and love to keep your traveling essentials as few as possible, this is the right purse for you. People love Mundi Jacqui Vegan Leather Crossbody Purse for many reasons. You’ll love how it’s convertible into a wallet as the shoulder and wrist strap are detachable. The straps are of great quality and thick, providing more comfort as you use the purse for long hours.

You can put 6 cards on the slots and remove them in a breeze. The cell phone pouch holds most types of phones, including phones with big screens. Your cards and passport will be protected as the bag also features an RFID security system. For what it’s worth, these reasons are why it’s the best cross body bag for travel in Europe.

Everything you need in a traveling crossbody bag is covered in this compact purse.

• Well-made and thick strap.
• Also equipped with a wrist strap

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel

Get yourself this charming crossbody bag from Michael Kors. The Jet Set Travel Messenger Bag is the best cross body bag for travel in Europe not only because of its known quality. It makes a practical traveling purse when you’re out spending the day sightseeing or hopping from one site to another.

The Jet Set Travel bag comes in the perfect size, it’s not too big or too small. Just the right size to store your most valuable items along with a pair of sunglasses and a compact umbrella. And even with those items inside, you can still fit a thin cardigan since the bag still has enough room.

A great traveling crossbody bag that worth every penny.

• Outside phone pocket equipped with magnetic clasp
• Perfect size for travel
• A great deal considering it’s a designer brand
• Well-made and very sturdy
• It’s a popular designer brand, it may attract robbers

MyFriday Small Crossbody Phone Bag

Never bring anything other than your phone, passport, and credit card during a day trip in Europe? This compact crossbody bag is made for you. With a waterproof design, chic choices of colors, and plenty of slots for cards, MyFriday Small Crossbody Phone Bag makes the best cross body bag for travel in Europe.

The good things don’t stop there. It comes with two different lengths of an adjustable strap which you can use depending on your mood. The biggest compartment fits Samsung Galaxy Note, which basically means most phones will fit into the purse. With a wide range of choices of colors, there’s something for everyone.

It’s small but mighty!

• Super lightweight
• Enough compartments
• Compact design
• Comes with both adjustable long and short strap choices
• Poor quality zippers

Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag

For less than 30 USD, Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag makes the best handbag for traveling in Europe. First of all, the bag is lightweight and comes in several cute choices of colors. It seems well-made from the look of its quality stitches and canvas material. The bag is also versatile enough, you can carry it on your shoulder or use the longer strap as a cross body bag.

Most tote bags are built with an open compartment. But Lily Queen Women Canvas Tote Handbag has a zippered compartment for safer storage. The bag stretches to 10” deep and this can be both a pro and cons. On a brighter note, you will definitely notice if someone tries to unzip your bag and reach inside. It is both safe and comfortable, and that’s why it’s the best purse for traveling in Europe.

Well-made, very stylish, and more than enough to carry your traveling essentials.

• Well-made and sturdy
• Provides wide straps for better weight distribution
• Zippered main compartment
• Available in several fun colors
• Built of quality stitching and quality canvas
• Some users mentioned a strong chemical smell

Michael Kors XS Carry All Jet Set Travel

Many people prefer designer bags for the very obvious reasons: their top-notch quality. And most of the time, it’s a great bang for the buck. Michael Kors XS Carry All Jet Set Travel is no exception, the quality precedes its popularity.

As the best handbag for traveling in Europe, XS Carry All Jet Set Travel comes in a perfect size. It’s well-made, lightweight, and makes a great gift idea as well! The most fun part is that you’ll get a longer strap, so you can use it both as a handbag and a crossbody bag. With seven choices of charming colors, you can definitely add a touch of personality as you travel.

Small and great handbag with fun choices of colors. Perfect for traveling and comes with a very reasonable price tag.

• Lightweight
• Comes with a crossbody strap
• Perfect size for a travel purse
• Not the safest product to stroll around with

LOVEVOOK Tote Satchel Hobo Set

With so many amazing and chic choices of colors, Lovevook Tote Satchel Hobo Set makes the best purse for traveling in Europe. And that’s because it doesn’t compromise on its function. For less than 50 USD, you can get a set of three bags: a handbag, a small sling bag, and a slim pouch. Each is great on its own and you can either take the shoulder bag or slim pouch for when you’re traveling in Europe.

People are praising its high-quality material, which is on par with most high-end handbags. Get ready to get compliments as you use the bags! Join a large number of fans of this bag and get yourself the best purse for traveling in Europe.

A set of three includes a handbag, a cute sling bag, and a slim pouch. All is great on its own.

• Great choices of colors
• True to display
• The purse holds its shape
• Looks expensive, may attract robbers

Baggallini Slim Hobo Bag

Another best purse for traveling in Europe from Baggalini, the Slim Hobo Bag should definitely be your next travel companion. Your first impression may be about how the bag looks compact and decent. You may know that the brand is notably popular online for its simple yet highly functional bags. And the Slim Hobo Bag is included in everyone’s favorites.

The bag is perfect for anyone who loves to keep their things organized. You’ll find several zippered pockets both inside and outside of the bag. The included coin purse is RFID protected, it’s the perfect place to keep your credit cards and passports. On top of all these features, the bag is also lightweight and water-resistant.

The price is rather inexpensive compared to other Baggallini bags. But it doesn’t compromise on the quality nonetheless.

• Durable & water-resistant
• One pocket is RFID-protected
• Roomy main compartment
• Very helpful to keep your items organized
• Issues with the strap

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag

So, what does it take to be at the best of the best purse for traveling in Europe? It needs to be able to cover all three things a traveling purse should have. As the name suggests, Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bucket Bag features a sufficient security system with its RFID-covered card slots. Carrying the things you only need while traveling in Europe is highly recommended. Aside from its comfort issue, it’s mainly to minimize the risk if the worst-case scenario happens.

It brings us to the second element, which is size and compartments. Overall, the Body Bucket Bag comes in a perfect size for travel. Wait… scratch that, it IS made for travel. Keeping that in mind, the manufacturer did a great job in designing the bag. It holds your traveling essentials and more, you can even put water bottles on the sides of this bag!

When it comes to comfort, you don’t have to worry about having a sore shoulder after a long day. The strap decent enough to hold weight without having to hurt you. All these features are all in one bag that costs less than 50 USD. Look no more, we’ve got the winner here.

Everything you need in the best purse for traveling in Europe is covered in this bag.

• Surprisingly very roomy
• Comfortable to use for long hours
• Water-resistant material
• Easy to clean
• Uncomfortable shoulder padding

Author:  Emma Landa

I'm a traveler with a thirst for adventure and a passion for style. From the runways of Paris to the boutiques of Milan, I've traveled the world in search of the most glamorous and exclusive fashion experiences. I love nothing more than indulging in the latest designer collections and discovering hidden gems in the world of fashion. I've explored the streets of Tokyo, discovering unique and avant-garde styles that are pushing the boundaries of fashion. And in New York, I've attended the most exclusive fashion shows, rubbing shoulders with the industry's elite. But fashion isn't the only thing that I indulge in. I've also stayed in some of the most luxurious hotels and properties around the world. From the stunning resorts in Bali to the opulent villas in Tuscany, I know how to travel in style and comfort. Sharing my experiences and insights with others is something that I'm passionate about. Through my social media channels, I offer a glimpse into the world of luxury fashion and travel, inspiring others to explore the world of high-end fashion and indulge in the finer things in life. So, come along with me on my journey and let me show you the world of luxury fashion and travel like you've never seen it before!

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• Travel Shop

10 Best Travel Purse For Europe | Ultimate Guide For Women’s Travel Bag

Ladies, let’s face it: the art of traveling light but stylishly is more complicated than mastering the cat eye. Thankfully, we’ve spent over half a decade seeking out the  crème de la crème of the best travel purse for Europe—and, you know, places not in Europe, too. Ready for the most exhaustive and entirely fabulous rundown of the best travel purse for Europe? Yes?  Well then, let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Essential Checklist Before Snagging That Best Travel Purse for Europe

Before swiping that card to claim your new travel companion, pause and peruse this checklist we’ve curated. Do you want to avoid being stuck in a bag with all looks and no brains, do you?

Size Matters: Choose a bag that fits your travel style. Do you need something compact, or are you looking for a bag that can fit your entire bathroom? Know your size first!

Security Features:   You are the only person who should be getting into your bag. Look for locks, RFID protection, and hidden compartments.

Material World: Leather, faux leather, nylon? Each has its benefits. Decide whether you’re going for luxe, practical, or a blend of both.

Easy Access: For those split-second moments. It would help if you had a bag to grab your camera or passport in a flash.

Weight: Empty bags shouldn’t feel like they’re already carrying a load. Lightweight is the way!

Weather-Proof: Ready for sun, rain, or the occasional snow? Your bag should be resilient to the elements.

Comfort: Adjustable straps, padding, and support are non-negotiables. You’ll be wearing this all day!

Color Scheme: Think of your wardrobe. Will your new bag complement your travel style?

Maintenance: It might be a pass if it requires more care than you do. Look for easy-to-clean materials and sturdy construction.

Reviews and recommendations: What are other travelers saying? A second (or third or fourth) opinion never hurts!

Expert Advice : “If a bag isn’t solving your problems, it’s creating new ones. Choose wisely and travel beautifully.” Tim  Gunn, fashion consultant

1. DAITET Money Belt: Undercover Fanny Pack (Black )

Remember the 80s? No? Well, fanny packs were a thing. And guess what? They still are for some. this is the best travel purse for europe.

• Stealth Mode Activated:  Hide everything, from your iPhone to your secret stash of emergency chocolate.
• RFID Blocking:  When you’re trying to avoid unintentional contactless payments,
• Two Metal Zippers:  One for each of your personalities.
• Doesn’t Move:  Because a jiggling pack is just not chic.
• Wear Comfortably:  It’s like a hug for your waist.
• Security & Water Resistant:  Pickpockets and rain?  Next.

Pros:  Super secure. Excellent for those who travel incognito.

Cons:  You might feel too much like a secret agent.

Expert’s Quote:  “An essential for the discerning traveler . Your belongings are kept safe, and you look chic doing it.” Caroline  Leavitt, travel stylist

2. INICAT Small Sling Bag Fanny Pack Crossbody

Fashion and faux leather? Yes, please. best travel purse for Europe.

• Animal Friendly:  No cows were harmed in the making of this bag.
• Multifunctional:  For the minimalist who wants to carry stuff.

Pros:  Perfect for a casual day out.

Cons:  It might consider encouraging a Marie Kondo approach to packing.

Expert’s Quote:  “A beautiful fusion of style and sensibility.” –  Monica Smith, veteran backpacker.

3. Telena’s Backpack Purse with a Touch of Tassel

• Back Zipper Closure:  Sneaky pickpockets? Good luck.
• Multiple Pockets:  Because organization is critical.

Pros:  The epitome of style meets functionality.

Cons:  This may lead to pocket-induced indecision.

Expert’s Quote:  “A fashion statement that speaks volumes.” –  Angela West, travel blogger.

4. Peak Gear Nylon Crossbody Purse

Don’t peak; buy.

• Lightweight and Durable:  Carry more chocolate and less bag weight.
• Small yet Mighty:  Because size doesn’t always matter.

Pros:  perfect size. Absolute game-changer.

Cons:  It might make your other bags jealous.

Expert’s Quote:  “A purse that packs a punch.” –  Michael Stuart, travel gear reviewer.

5. Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Classic? More like classy. truly the best travel purse for europe

• 5-Point Anti-Theft System:  It’s like Fort Knox in a bag.

Pros:  ultimate security.

Cons:  It might not fit a European bread loaf. But who’s trying?

Expert’s Quote:  “Every woman’s shield against the world’s shenanigans.” –  Linda Foreman, seasoned traveler.

6. MINTEGRA Women’s Shoulder Handbag

it is a  tote for those who cannot decide what to bring and then decide to bring it all.

• Material:  Lightweight, waterproof nylon. Wipe clean, machine wash, do anything.
• Two Sizes:  Because one size only sometimes fits all.

Pros:  It’s like having Mary Poppins’ bag in real life.

Cons:  You might need help finding your keys among all the possibilities.

Expert’s Quote:  “The tote that says ‘I’m prepared for anything,’ elegantly.” –  Claire Summers, travel writer.

7. Roulens Crossbody Bag for Women

Medium-size but with mega impact.

• High-Quality Vegan Leather:  Mother Nature says thank you.
• Stylish & Functional:  It has more compartments than a season of  Friends .

Pros:  Trendy, roomy, and whispers sophistication.

Cons:  It may cause spontaneous trips due to its inviting look.

Expert’s Quote:  “An indispensable ally in all your travel and shopping sprees.” –  Rachel Green, fashion connoisseur.

8. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

Mini in size, mighty in everything else.

• Locking Main Compartment:  It’s a vault.
• RFID Blocking:  Guarding your identity like a loyal sentinel.

Pros:  Compact but surprisingly spacious.

Cons:  The removable LED might encourage you to explore dark alleys.

Expert’s Quote:  “A petite powerhouse of functionality and style.” –  Alex Mercer, lifestyle coach.

9. LATMAP Sling Bag

For those who sling their bag and are ready to take on the world.

• Multifunctional:  Wear it any way you like it.
• Waterproof:  For those unexpected European downpours.

Pros:  Stylish and convenient.

Cons:  You might feel overly adventurous.

Expert’s Quote:  “Elegance, convenience, and daring, all in one.” –  Lara Croft, adventurer.

10. VENTURE 4TH Travel Money Belt

Your cash and cards’ bodyguard.

• Wear All Day:  It’s the second skin you never knew you needed.
• Large Capacity:  Because sometimes, more is more.

Pros:  Stealthy and comfortable.

Cons:  You may forget you’re wearing it and panic unnecessarily.

Expert’s Quote:  “A stealthy safe that wraps around your waist splendidly.” –  David Bane, security expert.

Final Encore

So, whether you are jet-setting to Paris, strolling through the cobbled streets of Rome, or captivated by the stunning sunset views in Santorini , we’ve got a bag for every occasion and every woman. With these trusty travel companions, you’ll traverse with confidence and an undeniable dash of panache.

And remember, while trends fade, style is eternal – and the perfect travel bag is the epitome of timeless style with a dash of daring adventure. Safe travels, and may each journey be as chic and seamless as your new bag!

Expert’s Quote:  “Your bag isn’t just an accessory; it’s an extension of your unforgettable journey and unyielding style.” –  Anna Wintour, fashion icon.

Ladies, Europe awaits! And now, you’re armed with the knowledge to choose the best travel purse for Europe. From the subtle chic to the glamorous, these bags aren’t just purses; they’re your travel BFFs. So, here’s to safe, stylish travels , and may your bag always contain more memories than receipts. “Traveling in style is an art – and with the right purse, you’re Picasso.” – Nancy Holt, travel guru.

Safe travels, and as always, Travel Till You Drop!  

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• November 3, 2023
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Best Travel Purse for Europe: Our 17 Top Picks

Kim Orlando

Say goodbye to pickpocket worries on your European adventure with our expertly selected collection of the best travel purses for Europe .

As you explore the enchanting streets of Europe’s vibrant cities, we understand how essential it is to keep your belongings secure. That’s why we’ve carefully searched out 17 top-of-the-line purses – from small travel purses to cross-body travel purses to anti-theft backpacks – that cater to the needs of travelers like yourself.

With features such as concealed pockets, slash-resistant materials, and RFID-blocking technology, the best travel handbags offer both style and security.

Embark on your international travel with confidence, knowing that your valuables are well-protected in the best travel purse for your specific needs.

1. Mundi Jacqui

• RFID blocking card technology
• Outer pocket keeps your cell phone handy and easily accessible
• Cross body style keeps this small travel purse close and secure
• Doubles as a wallet
• Removable wristlet and crossbody straps for versatility

The Mundi Jacqui is a wallet on a string. It keeps everything you need for a trip – phone, credit cards, cash and a passport – easily accessible. Plus, the RFID-blocking technology means your personal information will stay safe as you tour around the world. The two straps – crossbody and wristlet – can be swapped to make the Mundi easy to carry in the style you prefer. And its small size makes it easy to slip into your carry-on, backpack or tote when you board a plane.

2. Charmore Anti-Theft Backpack

• 5-point anti-theft security system for peace of mind during travel
• Spacious main compartment with wide, zip-around flap opening for easy access
• Interior organization panel, zippered pocket, and slip pocket for neat arrangement of belongings
• Center compartment large enough to hold an iPad or small laptop
• Adjustable shoulder strap for a comfortable fit while on the go

The roomy Charmore anti-theft bag is the right choice for travelers seeking a practical and fashionable backpack. Constructed with eco-friendly waterproof nylon, it can safeguard belongings in inclement weather. Featuring 1 zipper front pocket, 1 back anti-theft zipper pocket, 4 small interior pockets, 1 inner zipper pocket, and 2 side pockets, you can carry all your possessions and keep them tidy and protected.

The backpack is available in two sizes allowing you to select the one that suits your requirements. The adjustable back straps and detachable shoulder strap enable you to personalize your comfort level, and the doctor bag-style opening offers effortless access to your possessions.

3. MINICAT RFID Crossbody Bag

• Synthetic leather construction for durability and style
• Compact size fits cell phones up to 6.9 inches
• Multiple pockets for organized storage of essentials
• Versatile design suitable for various occasions
• Ideal gift option for women/girls

We sometimes get tired of rummaging through our bag to locate our phone while on the go. Right? The MINICAT is a lightweight travel purse that offers a practical fix for travelers who desire quick and effortless access to their phones. One of the best crossbody bags for travel, it’s built to hold cell phones with a screen size of 6.9 inches but is small enough to slip inside your tote while boarding your flight.

 With its numerous pockets and credit card slots, it’s easy to keep your credit cards, keys, cash, and other small items organized and easily accessible. Crafted from sturdy synthetic leather, this purse is constructed to endure the demands of travel.

4. UTO Backpack Purse

• Zipper closure ensures security of belongings while on the go
• The composite frame adds strength and stability to withstand the demands of travel
• Spacious main compartment with wide, zip-around flap opening provides easy access and ample storage space for travel essentials
• Slip pocket help keep items neatly organized during travels

This travel handbag is made with durable materials such as soft synthetic leather and sturdy hardware, ensuring your items are protected. This bag has a well-designed interior, with a lot of compartments and pockets that help keep your things organized. It also features adjustable back straps, top handle, and single shoulder strap for flexibility and comfort during travel. For those exploring a new city or heading on an outdoor adventure, the UTO Women Backpack Purse gives the functionality and convenience travelers require.

5. Rebecca Minkoff MAB Cross Body Bag

• Genuine leather construction ensures travel durability
• Adjustable chain crossbody strap offers hands-free convenience
• Compact size with multiple pockets for organized storage
• Stylish design pairs well with various travel outfits
• High-quality craftsmanship by Rebecca Minkoff

This bag is crafted from durable leather and endures travel wear while preserving appeal. An adjustable chain crossbody strap enables hands-free carrying convenience and versatility. The bag’s compact size, secure zipper closure, and multiple pockets ensure practical storage for essentials while on the go. So, it is possible to elevate your style with the Rebecca Minkoff MAB Crossbody Bag and experience the perfect blend of fashion and function for your travels.

• Made of materials that ensure durability and withstand frequent use
• Comes in black or red
• Convenient crossbody design allows for hands-free carrying, keeping belongings secure and easily accessible
• Helps travelers stay organized and on-trend during fast-paced journeys

The ALYSSA Crossbody Bag is a dependable choice because of its dimensions of 10” x 4” x 8” (LxWxH), which offers a compact size that is convenient for travel. Crafted from high-quality materials, this stylish travel purse ensures durability to endure frequent use. The crossbody design enables hands-free carrying, keeping your belongings secure and easily accessible while on the go. In a simple way, the ALYSSA Crossbody Bag is a must-have companion for travelers who want to stay organized and on-trend.

• Ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear
• Features secure magnetic snap closure and bronze-tone hardware for added convenience and style
• Offers versatile adjustable strap with 23-inch drop, allowing for comfortable crossbody or over-the-shoulder wear, keeping hands free during travel

The AFKOMST Crossbody Bag for Women is designed to endure the rigors of travel. The magnetic snap closure and bronze-tone hardware not only offer security but also add a dash of elegance. The perfect size and lightweight design ensure comfortable carrying on long journeys.

Its well-organized compartments provide easy access to your phone, keys, sunglasses, and small wallet while on the go. The adjustable strap allows for versatile wearing styles, keeping your hands free while exploring. Whether sightseeing or navigating crowded airports, this crossbody bag offers convenience and peace of mind.

8. Michael Kors Travel Tote with Tri-Fold Wallet

• Made in the USA, ensuring quality and supporting local craftsmanship
• Jet Set Chain adds stylish and sophisticated element to travel ensemble
• Double-top handles with gold chain detail provide comfortable and convenient carrying options
• Three-quarter zippered top closure and side gusset pockets allow easy access to belongings
• Comes with a matching tri-fold wallet

The Michael Kors Jet Set Shoulder Tote bag boasts genuine leather construction, ensuring longevity and sophistication. The double top handles, adorned with gold chain detail, provide a stylish and comfortable carrying option. The tote’s three-quarter zippered top closure, in conjunction with side gusset pockets, guarantees secure storage of your belongings when you’re on the move.

Inside, you’ll discover a well-organized interior complete with a back zip pocket and two slip pockets, promoting easy access and efficient organization. The wallet included with the tote offers ample space for cards, cash, and IDs. This spacious tote features a comfortable handle drop and accommodates your travel needs without compromising style.

9. Travelpro Travel Tote

• TSA-friendly size fits easily in any overhead bin or under the seat
• Spacious interior with capacity of 28.0L
• Ultra lightweight and compact for easy carrying
• Durable polyester material with polyester lining
• Comes in a variety of fun colors

The Travelpro Carry-On Travel Tote is a pragmatic option for travelers seeking a versatile and lightweight travel handbag that doubles as a carry-on. It consists of 100% polyester, providing durability and effortless maintenance. Its small size and dimensions of 11x18x8 inches enable it to fit comfortably in both domestic and international overhead bins and can be conveniently placed beneath the seat.

A zipper closure can serve as a passport slot or keep your mobile phone handy and protected.  The most fascinating feature? Weighing a mere 1.6 pounds, this tote prioritizes the weight of your contents over unnecessary bulk, so it won’t weigh you down as you walk around Europe. Also, with a capacity of 28.0L, it offers sufficient space for all of your travel essentials.

• Vintage gold metal hardware adds a touch of style
• Spacious interior with multiple compartments and card slots for organized storage of essentials
• Additional snap pockets provide easy access to cell phone and passport
• Reliable customer service available to address any concerns or issues
• Wristlet strap offers convenient carrying options

The YALUXE Leather Crossbody Clutch is crafted from 100% real genuine leather, demonstrating quality and durability. Its vintage gold metal color hardware lends an air of elegance to the piece. The wallet boasts a large capacity with multiple compartments and slots for organizing your essentials, which makes it one of the best purses for travel. This wristlet packs a punch with a main zip compartment, zip pocket, main pocket, open pocket, and card slots. The exterior of the clutch has two snap pockets for easy access to items like your cell phone and passport. With dimensions of 7.87x1x4.72 inches, it balances compactness and spaciousness for holding all your essentials.

• Comes with 21-inch drop detachable crossbody chain for easy carrying
• Magnetic snap closure allows for quick and hassle-free access
• Interior zippered pocket helps keep belongings organized
• Stylish black twill fabric lining adds touch of elegance
• Designed to meet needs of travelers on the go

The JNB Women’s Slip-through Clutch is imported with care and its dimensions of 12.25 inches in length, 1 inch in width, and 8 inches in height mak3 it compact and easy to fit into a travel bag. The clutch includes a detachable 21-inch drop crossbody chain for versatile carrying options.

Security features include a magnetic snap closure and a zippered interior pocket for convenient organization of smaller items. Also, the black twill fabric lining adds a sleek touch to the clutch. So if your primary concern is to be stylish for fancy travel tours, this clutch is designed to cater to the needs of travelers.

12. CHARMING TAILOR Leopard Clutch

• Features zippered foldover closure with stylish tassel pull for easy access and secure storage
• Comes with detachable chain strap, allowing for hands-free convenience or versatile carrying options
• Includes interior slip pocket to help organize and store small essentials
• Foldover design and leopard-printed pattern add stylish touch to any outfit

The CHARMING TAILOR Leopard Clutch Purse delivers a sophisticated look without the use of genuine animal products. The zippered foldover closure with a tassel pull ensures both style and security for your belongings. You can carry the purse with ease using its detachable chain strap and a drop of 22 inches, choosing how to wear it based on your preference and outfit. The interior slip pocket offers convenient storage for small items like credit cards and keys. With dimensions of W11-3/4 x H7 x D1 inches, it provides a compact size that fits snugly in your travel bag.  

13. Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

• Secure accessories with full anti-theft features
• Versatile design allows you to wear it as a crossbody bag or waist-pack
• Locking main compartment with RFID blocking for passport and card safety
• Multiple pockets for organized storage, including zip wall pocket and key clip with LED light
• Additional security provided with front zip pocket and rear slash pocket

The Travelon Classic Crossbody & Waist Pack anti-theft purse comes equipped with locking zipper compartments and slash-resistant construction. You can wear it in two ways: as a crossbody bag or as a fanny pack, ensuring hands-free and comfortable carrying options. The main locking compartment features an organizer with RFID-blocking passport and card slots, a zip wall pocket, and a tethered key clip with an LED light for easy organization and accessibility.

The front zip pocket adds extra security, while the rear slash pocket with snap closure offers additional storage space. So anyone can safely use it in busy cities or venturing into uncharted territories, this city-safe crossbody and waist pack is tailored to meet the practical needs of travelers.

14. Satchelli Crossbody Bag

• Travel purse has luggage handle sleeve
• Strong strap for secure attachment to luggage
• Crossbody bag has 2 interior and 4 exterior zip pockets for organized storage
• Purse includes removable RFID blocking wristlet for added security

The perfect travel purse, the Stachelli Crossbody bag features a luggage handle sleeve and a strong strap that allows you to wear it crossbody or over the shoulder. This design offers versatility and convenience during your journeys. The bag has multiple interior and exterior zip pockets which provide organization and security for your personal items.

Also, it includes a removable anti-theft RFID-blocking wristlet that keeps your wallet or passport safe. The bag has water-resistant nylon and is equipped with premium metal zippers, making it durable and able to endure the rigors of travel. So, all in all, its generous size is ample room for all types of essentials, while the adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit.

15. Peak Gear

• Lightweight and durable nylon material for travel durability
• Multiple pockets
• Hidden RFID blocking pouch for security against electronic theft
• Lifetime recovery service from ReturnMe for quick retrieval of misplaced handbag
• Crossbody design and adjustable strap for comfort and convenience

The Gear Nylon Crossbody Purse is a lightweight and durable travel purse, perfect for on-the-go adventures. It includes functional features such as hidden RFID blocking to protect against electronic theft, secure magnetic closures for added convenience, and a comfortable black nylon strap to ensure it stays in place.

The compact size (10IN x 7IN x 8IN) provides ample room for diary, tablet, mobile, and other accessories. Also, the purse comes with a lifetime recovery service from ReturnMe, ensuring that if misplaced, it can be safely returned to you anywhere in the world.

16. Pacsafe

• Wear as a backpack or shoulder bag for versatility and comfort
• Lockable compartments and optional padlock compatibility for secure storage
• Lightweight and compact for convenient travel carrying
• Durable and water-resistant construction ensures

The messenger-bag-style Pacsafe Crossbody Anti Theft Shoulder Bag comes with safety features such as an anti-theft design that incorporates lockable zippers and cut-proof lightweight steel mesh. These features help deter theft and pickpocketing. Its student bag look also includes an RFID blocking pocket, providing extra protection for your credit cards and IDs.

With multiple compartments and pockets, including a padded tablet sleeve, space for water bottles and interior zipper pockets, you can easily organize your belongings. The bag is versatile, allowing it to be worn as a backpack by looping the strap through the top handle. Its lightweight construction and durable materials make it a reliable travel companion.

17. Baggallini

• Adjustable strap for shoulder or crossbody style, with a expandable bottom.
• Machine washable.
• Removable RFID-protected phone wristlet for credit card and ID protection.
• Lightweight and water-resistant travel purse with quick access phone pocket.
• Weighs less than a pound for easy carrying.

The Baggallini Cross Over Crossbody Purse is crafted from durable nylon, making it both compact and lightweight. It provides ample space for purse accessories, including mobile phone and other personal items, with multiple pockets that keep you organized.

The adjustable strap allows for versatile wear as a shoulder bag or crossbody style. Its water-resistant design ensures your items stay protected, while a removable RFID-protected phone wristlet keeps your cards and ID secure. The purse is also machine washable for easy cleaning, offering functionality and peace of mind.

FAQs – Get More Answers Here!

What is the best bag to prevent pickpockets.

To outsmart pickpockets, select a crossbody bag that can outfox them, with security features such as lockable zippers, slash-proof materials, and hidden compartments. The bag becomes a shield against pesky thieves, much like a secret superhero.

What kind of purse is best for travel?

For fashionable jet-setting, a versatile purse is the ultimate travel companion. Choose a lightweight, durable option with multiple pockets to organize your essentials.

A crossbody or shoulder bag acts as a trusty sidekick, freeing up your hands for sightseeing and photography. It’s the ideal combination of function and fashion.

What does RFID mean?

Radio Frequency Identification is abbreviated as RFID and it serves as a personal shield. The RFID-blocking feature in your purse guards your credit cards and passport against unauthorized scanning. It’s similar to having a superhero power that keeps sensitive information secure while you’re on the go.

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11 Best Purses for Travel in Europe

Categories Fashion , Travel Style

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If you’re like me, it’s always a struggle to decide what bag to bring when I travel internationally, so I’ve found 11 of the best purses for travel in Europe to help you out!

From  crossbody  to  shoulder bags , there are a lot of cute travel purses to hold your passport, wallet, and other essentials.

Click the images below to shop the best purses for travel in Europe:

You always want to keep valuables close when traveling abroad, especially in Europe, where there tend to be many pickpocketers and scammers—purse security features can be a nice perk if you’re nervous about theft.

Aesthetics and comfort are also essential to consider when buying a purse for a European vacation since you’ll want a travel bag that’s practical but fashionable so it can be styled with any outfit.

I’m here to tell you that plenty of cute travel bag options are out there!

Shop my picks for the best travel purses by clicking the images below:

I’ve rounded up the best  crossbody bags  and  lightweight travel handbags , so let’s jump into this list of the best purses for travel in Europe!

To make things easy for you, you can shop for these products by clicking directly on the images, the shopping buttons, and the text links.

These are my affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission when you purchase using my links (at no additional cost to you!), and I greatly appreciate you shopping with my links!

1. Lo & Sons The Pearl Crossbody Bag

First up on my list of the best purses for travel in Europe is the Lo & Sons The Pearl Crossbody Bag .

This gorgeous Crossbody Travel Purse is expertly crafted with Saffiano leather, a textured, weather-resistant, incredibly durable material. 

The Pearl has various travel-friendly features, from the various interior pockets to the convertible strap.

Plus, this bag is just as luxurious as it is functional, so you’ll have no trouble styling it as you explore different European countries.

At $298, The Pearl is an investment piece, but the high quality makes it worth the price since you’ll get years of use.

2. Kate Spade Laurel Way Rima Crossbody

The Kate Spade Laurel Way Rima Crossbody is a super stylish, travel-friendly purse that should be at the top of your Europe packing list!

I love how slim this crossbody is because I can keep all my essentials within reach without carrying a bulky bag. 

Black is a classic color choice, but I can’t get over how beautiful the Lilac Moonlight shade is since I’m a sucker for pastels.

The Laurel Way Rima Crossbody is made from high-quality Saffiano leather that looks and feels ultra-luxe—I promise you’ll become instantly obsessed!

3. Baggallini Everywhere Bagg

Baggallini’s  Everywhere Bagg  is one of the best travel bag picks designed for fashion and functionality.

The  Everywhere Crossbody  is ultra-light for comfortable wear and includes a detachable RFID-blocking wristlet.

The main bag and the mini travel wallet provide RFID protection, many organizational pockets, and a pass-through sleeve for luggage handles.

This  Everywhere Crossbody Travel Bag  has a sleek, slightly curved shape that’s chic and versatile for all your travel looks.

4. Travelon Anti-Theft Boho North/South Crossbody

I’ll be honest—I haven’t always enjoyed Travelon’s bags. Popular options from the brand include the Travelon  Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag  and  Classic Mini Shoulder Bag , which are functional but not very stylish.

Thankfully, Travelon has upped its lightweight travel handbag game in recent years!

The  Anti-Theft Boho North/South Crossbody Purse  has a trendy quilted design in several colors and patterns.

From a locking main compartment to slash-proof straps and RFID-blocking technology, the Travelon  Anti-Theft Boho N/S/ Crossbody  can do it all.

Click the images below to start shopping for the best purses for travel in Europe:

5. Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Crossbody Bag

How fashionable is this Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Crossbody Bag ?

This Anti-Theft Travel Purse instantly caught my eye when I was browsing for the perfect travel purse, and the fact it’s waterproof and has RFID-blocking pockets is a huge pro.

The Arden Cove Crossbody Bag is made from waterproof nylon and vegan leather, so it looks and feels high-quality—not to mention the bag contains a full slash-proof lining.

Considering the timeless design and anti-theft features, I think this waterproof travel purse is worth the $174 price tag.

6. Lo & Sons The Bond Crossbody Belt

I had to include another Lo & Sons bag in this guide to the best purses for travel in Europe—they’re just that good!

The Bond  is a minimalist and lightweight crossbody bag that you can clip around your waist as a fanny pack.

This  sling bag  has plenty of pockets to keep credit cards, IDs, and travel documents handy, and the anti-microbial lining ensures your items will stay clean no matter where your adventures take you.

You can choose from a  600D Recycled Poly version  of this stylish travel purse, which retails for $98, or splurge on the $328  sheepskin leather style .

7. Away F.A.R. Messenger 16L

Away is one of the trendiest sites for travel luggage, bags, and accessories, and I had to include the  F.A.R. Messenger 16L  in this roundup of bags perfect for taking to Europe.

This stylish travel purse is compact but spacious enough to store all your daily essentials and features an adjustable shoulder strap.

The  F.A.R. Messenger  is made from water-resistant nylon fabrics and has a zipper pocket for everything you need.

The $80 price for this  small travel purse  is a steal, considering how many bells and whistles this bag has.

8. Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote

Totes might not be the first bag style that comes to mind when you think of the best purses for travel in Europe, but hear me out!

Longchamp’s  Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag  is a good travel purse option because it’s big enough to fit your laptop or tablet.

This is a stylish  travel tote  perfect for remote workers and business owners like me who want to stay on top of things from anywhere in the world.

The top snap button and zipper closure keep all your items safe, and you could even use the  Le Pliage Tote  as a fashionable overnight bag.

Start shopping my picks for the best crossbody travel purses and handbags for Europe by clicking the images below:

9. Senreve Circa Bag

This Senreve  Circa Bag  is one of the most aesthetic purses on this list.

This gorgeous purse is made from 100% Italian leather and can be worn as a backpack, crossbody, shoulder, or top-handle bag, thanks to the adjustable strap.

Not only does the  Circa Bag  look and feel luxurious af, but it’s also scratch, weather, and stain-resistant, which is a must for international travel.

The Senreve  Circa Bag  is a splurge given the $500+ price tag, but the extra cost is worth it since you’re investing in a quality piece that’s incredibly versatile and durable.

10. Lululemon Crossbody Camera Bag

A roundup of the best purses to take as you travel Europe would be incomplete without a Lululemon travel piece!

Lululemon has changed the game regarding functional, durable, and stylish travel bags, so I knew I had to try the  Camera Crossbody .

This  Mini Travel Bag  comes in several gorgeous colors that are luxurious and versatile—you can easily style them with any travel outfit.

The water-repellant  Crossbody Purse  has a surprisingly roomy interior compartment that zips closed and fits your phone, keys, and more while keeping items neat and organized.

You can snag a Lululemon  Small Messenger Bag  for $78, a splurge worth every penny.

If you’re looking for a bag for a teenager to take on a trip, this would top my list of  travel accessories for teens .

11. Dagne Dover Micah Crossbody

My last pick for the top Europe travel purses is Dagne Dover’s Micah Crossbody . 

The Micah Crossbody is a fashionable option that can easily be styled up or down, with plenty of travel features like a key leash and credit card slots.

One of the best parts is this Dagne Dover Travel Crossbody Purse is made from 100% vegan neoprene, which is also water-resistant—a must for traveling.

You can expect to pay $110 for this lightweight travel purse , which is a great deal, IMO.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup of the best European travel purses! If you prefer to travel with carry-all tote bags for plenty of space, I recommend the Beis East to West Travel Purse .

Wanting a bag with space for your camera? Check out this post if you’re looking for the best travel camera backpack .

Make sure to tag me on Insta (@ wtfab ) if you snag any of these bags so I can see what travels you take them on.

Click the images below to browse the best purses for travel in Europe:

Planning a trip and need more travel outfit inspo? I’ve got tons of travel style content here !

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I like to travel with a crossbody purse or shoulder bag since I can keep it nice and close to my body.

The Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Crossbody Bag is a stylish anti-theft purse.

My picks include the Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody and the Senreve Circa Bag .

Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of  What The Fab , a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.

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The 12 best travel purses of 2024.

From hands-free to anti-theft options, discover the ideal companion for your journey.

The Best Travel Purses

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

When 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.

Best Overall: TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Crossbody: Lug Skeeter Convertible Crossbody

Best for europe: minooy eirene crossbody bag, best anti-theft: travelon anti-theft crossbody bag, best shoulder bag: vera bradley glenna satchel, best messenger bag: tory burch nylon small messenger, best backpack purse: calpak luka mini backpack.

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

Best Packable: LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag

Best belt bag: dagne dover ace fanny pack, best sling bag: cluci small sling bag for women, best clutch: consuela thunderbird uptown crossbody.

(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.)

Courtesy of TUMI

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Vera Bradley

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

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

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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

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

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

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

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

Courtesy of Consuela

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.

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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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The Best Purses For Travel In Europe

Hey there wanderers and jet-setters! Planning a trip to the beautiful continent of Europe? Well, we all know that when it comes to exploring new cities and soaking up the culture, having the perfect purse is an absolute must, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Not only should it be stylish but also practical enough to keep your essentials safe and organized while you’re on the go. Whether you’re strolling through charming cobblestone streets, in and out of museums with the kids, or hopping on trains for your next adventure, I’ve got you covered with my guide to the best purses for travel in Europe. 

From chic crossbody bags, to travel backpack purses, tips and stylish recommendations for a stress-free and fashionable journey across Europe!

Europe continues to be one of the most popular regions for travelers from all corners of the globe. You can explore multiple countries within a short span, which makes it an ideal destination for those of us looking for a diverse experience with minimal travel time. From Parisian streets and Italian countryside to Spanish beaches and Greek islands, it’s like a treasure trove waiting to be discovered!

So let’s get into it.

Related: 18 Stylish Bags For Moms With Toddlers

Table of Contents

Various Types Of Bags For Traveling In Europe

1. Compact Crossbody Bags–Your On-the-Go Sidekick: with traversing the bustling streets of Europe’s vibrant cities, a compact crossbody bag is an absolute must-have. Not only do they keep your essentials close at hand, but they also add a touch of chicness to any outfit. Pick one with multiple compartments to keep everything organized as you hop from museums to cafes.

 2. Anti-Theft Bags–Safety Meets Style: Safety is paramount while traveling in unknown territories, especially in crowded tourist hotspots. That’s where anti-theft bags come into play! These sleek and sophisticated bags not only offer ample space for all your travel necessities but also feature smart security features like slash-proof materials and hidden zippers for peace of mind wherever you go. 

3. Versatile Tote Bags–Ideal for Market Hopping: If visiting local markets or indulging in some retail therapy is high on your European itinerary (which it should definitely be!), then a versatile tote bag should be part of your arsenal. Choose one that has both style and durability so that you can carry home those souvenirs without compromising on fashion-forward flair. 

4. Foldable Daypacks–Unleash Your Inner Adventurer: For adventure seekers who plan on hiking through breathtaking landscapes or exploring picturesque countryside villages, a foldable daypack is an absolute game-changer! These lightweight wonders easily fit into larger suitcases when not in use but transform into spacious bags when needed, allowing you to embrace any spontaneous adventure Europe throws your way. 

5. Classic Leather Handbags–Timeless Elegance: Last but certainly not least, we cannot overlook the allure of a classic leather handbag. Whether you’re strolling along the Champs-Élysées in Paris or wandering through the charming streets of Florence, a well-crafted leather bag adds an element of sophistication to any ensemble. 

Related: The Best Fashionable Belt Bags For Moms

Best Purses For Travel In Europe

All Night Festival Bag- Ok so we all know and love Lululemon, right? They’re the reason for the fanny bag craze and now the All Night Festival Bag is yet another fan favorite. It’s a five-liter one size fits all. The All Night Festival bag is a crossbody bag making it one of the best purses for traveling abroad.

• Comes in four colors.
• Water-repellent.
• Adjustable shoulder straps.
• Exterior and interior pockets.
• Wide-opening for easy access.

Micah Neoprene Crossbody- If you’ve been around for a bit you know I love all things Dagne Dover. I haven’t been disappointed yet. If you’re looking for a lightweight good and cute travel purse, then consider the Micah Crossbody . Durability, compatibility, and weight make the Micah one of the best purses for travel in Europe.

• Lightweight
• Six main colors and two seasonal ones.
• Phone pocket with magnetic closure.
• Adjustable shoulder strap.
• Detachable key hook.

The Piazza Crossbody Bag – Some of the best handbags for travel are crossbody bags. They offer security, comfort, and versatility while exploring crowded European cities or using public transportation and they keep your hands free. And not only that they come in a variety of sizes to fit your needs.

The Piazza Crossbody is definitely a stylish bag for travel that comes in a funky fun Jade green and pale daffodil.

• Two ways to carry it. By the braided handles or by the adjustable and removable shoulder strap.
• Magnetic closure.
• Cinched drawstring.
• One size fits all.

Lunar Medium Dome Crossbody- The best bag for traveling Europe is a budget-friendly one. The Lunar Dome crossbody is an affordable option that’s a reliable and stylish travel purse that won’t break the bank.

• Comes in over 20 colors.

Small Leather Crossbody- If you’re looking for a small travel purse this leather crossbody that comes in a variety of vibrant colors should do the trick. Small crossbody bags make the best purses for travel in Europe. Smaller crossbody bags are my go-to when traveling.

• Small and compact.
• Adjustable strap.
• Pick your shoulder strap style.

Mark And Graham Tote- Tote bags with sturdy handles are ideal for travelers who prefer carrying more essentials without sacrificing style. Like a crossbody bag, a tote bag is a great option for travel purses for women. And who doesn’t love a good Mark and Graham tote ? This Essential Leather Tote comes in large and small and you can add your personalization if you like.

Longchamp Expandable Travel Bag- Make the Longchamp your go-to Europe travel bag. It’s expandable which also makes it the perfect carry-on bag especially if you’re packing light for a long European weekend getaway.

• Comes in 2 colors.
• Removable strap.
• Water-resistant lining.
• Folds flat to easily stow away.

Related: The Best Backpacks For Traveling Moms

Best Crossbody Bags For Travel Antitheft

Anti-theft Crossbody Shoulder Bag- One of the best crossbody bags for travel anti-theft you can find on Amazon. Of course, right? This crossbody bag is more in line with a fanny pack that women and men can wear. It’s great because a fanny is kept close to the chest and isn’t too large.

• Comes in five colors.
• Has 5 pockets.
• Anti-scratch and water resistant.

Anti-theft Classic Messenger Bag – A crossbody anti-theft purse that includes seven colors.

• 5-point anti-theft security system.
• Organizational departments.
• Magnetic flap.

Best Travel Backpack Purse

First things first–let’s talk about practicality. A travel backpack purse is designed with functionality in mind. With multiple compartments and pockets, it ensures that all your essentials are organized and easily accessible. No more rummaging through a bottomless pit of a bag to find your passport or lip balm!

The adjustable straps of these purses allow you to wear them comfortably in whichever way suits your style: as a traditional backpack or as a handbag. This adds convenience but also gives you the freedom to switch up your look effortlessly.

Now let’s dive into the style factor! Travel backpack purses come in an array of fashionable designs and colors that cater to every taste. From sleek leather options for those who prefer sophistication to vibrant patterns for free-spirited adventurers–there’s something out there for everyone.

Essential Backpack- For some the best travel purse for Europe is a backpack purse because of its flexibility to easily transition from a shoulder bag to a backpack and the advantages such as hands-free convenience during long walks or running through the airport.

• Interior zipper.
• Leather or Raffia and leather

Berkeley Tote Pack – Because The North Face never disappoints use the Berkeley Tote as a travel backpack purse to keep your hands free and your personal items secure. This is better used as a purse for traveling aboard and not as a travel bag. It’s the right amount of space to carry your personal items.

• Carrying handle or wearing as a backpack.
• Laptop sleeve.
• Exterior pockets and a main interior pocket.

Almost Perfect Tote Backpack- Is there anything better than a classic leather backpack purse ? Because of its durability, a leather tote makes one of the best bags for travel in Europe.

• Comes in six colors.

Anti-Theft Backpack Purse- If you’re looking for an anti-theft backpack purse at an affordable price consider the Cluci as one of the best purses for traveling to keep your personal items safe.

• Can be worn as a shoulder handbag or backpack.
• External and interior pockets.

Related: Cool Backpacks For Moms With Toddlers

Tips & What To Look For When Choosing Travel Purses For Europe

1. Keep Your Belongings Safe and Secure: When exploring bustling European cities or wandering through charming cobblestone streets, safety should be a top priority. Opting for a secure purse with sturdy zippers or clasps will help safeguard your belongings from pickpockets who might view tourists as easy targets. Choose one that can be worn across your body rather than simply hanging from your shoulder–an extra layer of protection! 

2. Stay Organized on the go: A well-organized purse will be your best friend while navigating unfamiliar territories. Look for multiple compartments or pockets that allow you to separate items like passports, tickets, cash, credit cards, and even emergency contact information in case anything goes awry. Having everything within reach ensures you won’t waste precious time rummaging through a jumbled mess when needed most. 

3. Versatile Size & Lightweight Design: Exploring Europe often involves long days packed with sightseeing adventures and city escapades. A lightweight yet spacious purse is ideal to carry all your essentials without weighing you down throughout the day. Consider opting for adjustable straps so that you can wear it comfortably.

Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or embarking on a scenic road trip, here are some things to consider when choosing the best purse for traveling: 

1. Size matters : Opt for a purse that is compact yet spacious enough to fit all your essentials comfortably. You don’t want something too big and bulky that will weigh you down or be difficult to maneuver through crowded places. 

2. Organizational bliss: Look for a purse with multiple compartments or pockets so that you can easily organize and locate your belongings. This will save you from rummaging through a jumbled mess every time you need something. 

3. Security first : Safety is of utmost importance during your travels. Ensure the chosen purse has secure closures like zippers or flaps, which will prevent pickpockets from accessing your valuables effortlessly.

 4. Lightweight and durable : Since internal travel involves moving around frequently, make sure your purse is lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand wear and tear. Consider materials like nylon or leatherette that are both durable and easy to clean. 

5. Comfortable straps or handles : Choose a bag with adjustable straps or handles that can be worn crossbody or over the shoulder, depending on what suits you best. This should distribute weight evenly across your body.

6. Versatility in style : Pick a versatile design that complements various outfits during your travels so that it remains stylish no matter where you go–from casual outings to more formal events. 

7. RFID protection bonus: In this digital age, it’s essential to keep yourself protected against identity theft while traveling internationally as well. Consider selecting a purse with built-in RFID-blocking technology; this will safeguard any credit cards or passports stored in your bag. 

8. Weather-friendly features : Depending on your travel destination, consider a purse that is weather-resistant or comes with a waterproof cover to protect your belongings during unexpected rain showers or other weather conditions. Remember, the perfect purse for international travel should combine functionality, security, comfort, and style. So, before you embark on your next adventure, keep these tips in mind to find the ideal companion that will enhance your travel.

When it comes to finding the best travel bag for Europe, it’s important to consider both style and functionality. With so many stunning cities to explore and diverse cultures to immerse yourself in, you’ll want a bag that not only looks great but also keeps your belongings secure and organized. Whether you opt for a versatile backpack or a sleek rolling suitcase, prioritize durability and comfort. Remember that traveling light is key, so choose a size that suits your needs without weighing you down.

I hope you find this post helpful in picking the best purses for travel in Europe.

Related: The Best Shoes For Trendy Moms

Best Purses For Travel In Europe FAQs

What is the best handbag to travel within europe.

Versatile Crossbody Bags: If convenience is your top priority while exploring then crossbody bags are an absolute game-changer. These hands-free companions allow you to keep all your essentials within easy reach while leaving you free to snap photos or indulge in some gelato without worrying about misplacing your bag. 

Spacious Tote Bags: For those who prefer carrying more than just their daily essentials—think extra layers for chilly evenings by Prague Castle or picking up souvenirs from Madrid’s bustling markets—a roomy tote bag is a must-have! 

Secure Anti-Theft Backpacks: When navigating busy tourist attractions or hopping on crowded public transportation systems in cities like London or Berlin, keeping your valuables secure becomes crucial.

Belt Bags : Who said fashion can’t be functional? Belt bags (also known as fanny packs) have made an impressive comeback, and they’re perfect for fashion-forward travelers exploring trendy destinations.

What to put in your purse when traveling?

1. Travel documents: Your passport (don’t leave home without it!), identification cards, travel insurance information, and any necessary visas or permits. 

2. Money essentials: Carry a mix of cash (both local currency and some US dollars as a backup) and credit/debit cards for convenience. It’s always wise to have emergency cash tucked away too. 

3. Gadgets and chargers: Your phone is undoubtedly an indispensable companion while traveling. Don’t forget your charger/adapters to stay connected wherever you go. Consider packing a power bank for those long days out exploring. 

4. Snacks and water bottles: Keep yourself hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle – it’ll save money and the environment! Tossing in some energy bars or small snacks can also be handy during unexpected delays or hunger pangs. 

5. Meds & first aid kit: Pack any prescription medications you need along with basic first aid supplies like band-aids, painkillers, antihistamines (in case of allergies), and any other personal medical items required. 

What is the safest type of purse to travel with?

1. Purses with anti-theft features: When it comes to travel purses, prioritize those equipped with anti-theft features. Also, consider bags with slash-proof straps and materials that discourage pickpockets. 

2. Crossbody Bags for Hands-Free: Crossbody bags are a fantastic choice for travelers as they provide hands-free security without compromising style or accessibility. 

3. Hidden Compartments & Zipper Closures: Purses with multiple hidden compartments and zipper closures add an extra layer of safety during your travels. 

4. Go Compact: Smaller purses are generally safer options because of their ability to stay close by. They allow you to keep better track of your belongings and minimize any chances of misplacing important items. 

Should I carry a purse in Europe?

Carrying a purse can be both stylish and practical while exploring Europe. It allows you to keep all your essential items like wallet, phone, passport, maps, and other valuables securely organized. Plus, who doesn’t love accessorizing their outfits with a fabulous bag that complements their style?

While Europe is generally safe for travelers, it’s always wise to exercise caution and prioritize safety.

Always consider your destination.

Further Reading...

10 Stylish & Functional Pool Bags For Moms

Best Travel Gifts For Moms

The Best Backpack For Traveling Moms

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The 10 Best Travel Purses for Europe

When traveling in Europe, nothing is worse than carrying a heavy purse all day.

But it’s not just about how much weight you’re lugging around. It’s also about making sure that your belongings are safe and secure.

When you’re in a new place, you must ensure that your stuff is safe and sound.

And when you’re out on the town or exploring an unfamiliar city?

A small, light bag can help carry all your essentials while remaining inconspicuous.

Here are some of the best travel purses for Europe that will help you stay stylish and organized while keeping your valuables safe.

As an Amazon Associate and Booking affiliate, LoveForTraveling.com earns from qualifying purchases. We may receive a commission for purchases made via our links.

What should I look for in a travel bag?

When choosing a travel bag, several features and functions must be considered.

Here are some questions you should ask yourself:

• What is the purpose of this bag? Will it be used for work, school, or leisure?
• Is it necessary to carry multiple items at once? If so, how many things do I need to take at once?
• How much weight do I plan on putting into my bag at one time (e.g., laptop, textbooks)?
• Do I need somewhere secure to store my valuables while traveling or walking around town?

These questions will help determine whether you should purchase a large duffel bag or a small backpack.

Consider purchasing a duffel bag if you’re looking for a large bag to hold multiple items at once.

Duffels are ideal for traveling because they can be used as carry-on luggage on airplanes and trains. They’re also great for camping trips or overnight stays away from home.

If you need somewhere secure to store your valuables while traveling or walking around town, consider purchasing a backpack instead of a duffel bag.

Backpacks are more secure than duffel bags because they have zippers that can be locked.

They’re also easier to carry since they don’t have handles or straps like duffel bags.

1) Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

The Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag is a bag for women who want to travel light but want to be ready for anything.

This bag is excellent for women who want to pack light and travel fast. At only 8.5 x 8.5 x 2 inches, it can easily fit in your purse or handbag, and it only weighs 10.6 ounces, a little more than half as much as a standard backpack!

The main compartment has an organizer with an RFID-blocking card and passport slots, two wall pockets, zippered mesh pocket, and two pen loops.

There’s also a slash-resistant shoulder strap, so you can feel safe walking around town with all your essential stuff!

The anti-theft features make this bag an excellent choice for women who spend long periods on the road, especially if they’re traveling solo or with another female friend or family member (or if they’re just paranoid).

The bag has plenty of space for all your essentials and is very comfortable to carry.

It also comes in several colors, so you can pick the one that best suits your style!

• Fully extended the strap is about 56 inches. It can drop as much as 28 inches from the shoulder
• Interior organizer with RFID blocking card and passport slots; two wall pockets in main compartment for organization
• Front zip pocket is secure under snap close flap; front and rear zip pockets for quick grab items

Last update on 2024-04-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

2) Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack.

The PacSafe Women’s Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack is excellent for any European trip.

Not only is it a lightweight, sleek backpack that will help you stay organized while you travel, but it also has features that keep your items safe from pickpockets and thieves.

This bag has an anti-theft design with interlocking zippers and cut-proof material, which can help prevent theft or pickpocketing.

It also comes with RFID-blocking pockets to protect your credit cards and IDs from being scanned by scanners.

The padded shoulder strap is detachable and reinforced with wire mesh to carry more weight comfortably.

The back panel is padded with a foam layer that can be removed to accommodate a laptop up to 17 inches in size (we tested it out with our 17-inch Macbook Pro ), so you can use this backpack as a briefcase too.

The front zip pocket has an RFID-blocking card slot that keeps credit cards safe.

There are also two expandable water bottle or umbrella side pockets in addition to 4 card slots on the inside of the bag and a zippered interior pocket for storing smaller items like keys or wallets safely while traveling around Europe.

• ANTI-THEFT DESIGN – With Interlocking Zippers and Cut Proof Material (lightweight steel mesh) to prevent theft/pickpocketing, plus RFID blocking pockets to keep…
• CAN BE LOCKED TO FIXTURES – Adjustable, padded shoulder strap is detachable and reinforced with wire. Backpack can be securely locked to tables or chairs to…
• ORGANIZATION & POCKETS – 1* RFID Blocking Front Zip Pocket, 1* Interlocking Zipper Main Compartment, w/ 1* Padded Sleeve (Fits 16″ Macbook Pro), 1* RFID…

3) Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag is a fantastic choice for women who want to travel with their entire lives in tow.

It’s got a ton of space and organization, so you can pack everything you need without worrying about carrying it all.

It’s made out of super durable nylon fabric and has a five-point security system, so not only will your stuff be safe from thieves, but you’ll also be able to find what you need quickly and easily.

This product is perfect for people trying to travel light but still want to bring some essentials along for the ride.

It has two main compartments: zippered and slip pockets, so you won’t have trouble finding the things you need quickly and easily.

There are also two front magnetic flaps (one on each side) that hide smaller items inside, so they’re not visible when they’re not in use.

There are also two mesh water bottle pockets on each side so that if you don’t want to carry a bag around or need somewhere safe, put your water bottle when it isn’t being used; these will do the trick!

If there’s one downside to this bag, the shoulder straps don’t have much padding.

If you’re carrying this bag or wearing it for long periods, you may want to invest in padded shoulder straps to be more comfortable on your shoulders.

• 5-Point Anti-Theft security system
• Two multi-organizational compartments have a zippered pocket and slip pockets
• Front magnetic flap hides

4) Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag is your best bet if you’re looking for a bag that can do it all. It’s roomy but not so big that it will be too heavy to carry around all day.

The RFID-blocking pocket keeps your credit cards and passport safe from skimmers, and the padded pocket holds an iPad or tablet.

The tethered key clip with LED light is easy to find in a dark room, and two easy-access pockets on the front make it easy to get in and out of your bag without digging around.

The rear zippered pocket lets you safely store anything you need quick access to while keeping everything organized inside the main compartment.

The only thing we don’t like about this bag is that there’s no dedicated laptop compartment, so if you want your laptop protected from thieves or water damage, it’ll need to go somewhere else (such as one of those expansion pockets).

All in all, this is one of our favorite travel purses for Europe!

• IT ONLY GETS BETTER WITH AGE, beautifully crafted designed in cotton canvas material with suede trim, accented in nickel plated hardware and comes with a 2 year…
• EXCELLENT SIZE FOR ANY OCCASION featuring front and rear zippered pockets, 2 drop pockets, a pen loop, a tethered key clip with LED light and a zippered RFID…
• SAFETY AND SECURITY ARE IN THE BAG with Anti-Theft features like hidden slash resistant mesh body panels, locking zippers, adjustable stainless steel cable…

5) Satchel Crossbody Bag

The Satchel Crossbody Bag is an excellent option for traveling women who want to look fashionable and stay organized.

The bag is 12 x 10 x 3.5 inches and weighs 1 pound. It’s made of nylon and comes in black, grey, or tan.

The interior has two pockets, and the exterior has four for easy access to your belongings.

The cross-body strap is made from a durable nylon material that can be worn cross-body or over one shoulder.

The bag features a luggage handle sleeve on the back, perfect for checking your bags at the airport!

The cross-body purse also includes an RFID-blocking wristlet that can be removed if you don’t want it inside your wallet.

The zippers are made with premium metal, so they won’t break easily, and make sure your belongings stay safe inside your purse while you’re on vacation!

This is an excellent product for women who want to look stylish while traveling through Europe; make sure you have extra room to bring it with you!

• ✔ MATERIAL – Made of customized high-density canvas, this messenger bag was endowed with long-lasting performance and rugged style. Garment wash for the…
• ✔ DIMENSIONS – 11.2″(L) x 3.4″(W) x 9″(H); Item weighs 1.1 Lbs; Fits iPad up to 9.7-inch and A4/foolscap-sized folders, textbooks, magazines in its main…
• ✔ COMPACT CAPACITY- Thanks to its minimalist design with multiple pockets, this courier bag is designed for daily commuters. The bag design is simple and…

6) Pacsafe Metrosafe LS250

The Pacsafe Metrosafe LS250 is the perfect bag for your next European trip.

It’s great for women and men and can fit many things. It comes with two lockable zippers, cut-proof materials (lightweight steel mesh) to prevent theft/ pickpocketing, and an RFID-blocking pocket to keep your credit cards/ IDs safe.

The original anti-theft brand is patented in the USA by Pacsafe.

It’s roomy, durable, water-resistant, easy to clean, and has premium-quality nylon.

The main compartment can be locked up, so you don’t have to worry about anyone seeing what’s inside when you’re out and about on a crowded street or subway car.

The front pocket is big enough to fit an 11″ laptop (which means you can work while traveling) and two padded sleeves that will hold books or magazines upright while they’re being carried around town.

Two zipper interior pockets keep smaller items organized inside this giant bag.

One of these pockets even has an attached key ring holder, so you’ll always know where your keys are when they’re not being used!

The padded adjustable shoulder strap is also designed to make it easier to carry this bag around all day, even when your load is heavy.

If you’re looking for an affordable and durable laptop backpack that keeps your electronics safe while traveling, this one is a good option!

• ANTI-THEFT DESIGN – with Lockable Zippers and Cut Proof Materials (lightweight steel mesh) to prevent theft/ pickpocketing, plus an RFID blocking pocket to keep…
• ORGANIZATION & POCKETS – 2* Lockable Zipper Compartments, 2* Padded Sleeves (one Fits 11″ Notebook), 2* Zipper Interior Pockets (1* RFIDsafe), 2* Side Pockets…
• STURDY & FUNCTIONAL – Roomy bag made of durable, water resistant and easy to clean, premium quality nylon. For women and men with comfortable, padded strap that…

7) OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse

The OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse is an excellent choice for a sleek, stylish, and functional travel purse.

It comes in various colors and features, making it ideal for travelers and commuters.

The bag has two main compartments, ample room for essentials, and a fully padded base to protect your electronics (iPod, iPad, e-reader).

The interior zippered pocket can hold everything you want to keep safe while traveling keys, money, and credit cards; two additional pockets inside the purse are perfect for your phone or other small items.

The OGIO Women’s Brooklyn Tablet Purse also comes with a fully featured organization panel on the front of the purse so you can easily store all your smaller items in one place.

This makes it easy to find what you need quickly when you need it!

The shoulder strap is adjustable, so you can wear the bag cross-body if that suits you better than wearing it on one shoulder or both at once.

One of my favorite things about this bag is its lightweight; even though it has so many pockets and compartments, it feels light as a feather on your shoulder.

I love that this bag has a water-resistant finish; it makes it perfect for rainy days or trips to the beach because anything you put inside won’t get wet when it rains!

• Item Package Dimension: 14.01L x 12.70W x 4.12H inches
• Item Package Weight – 0.85 Pounds
• Item Package Quantity – 1

8) Baggallini Everywhere Travel Crossbody Purse With Rfid

The Baggallini Everywhere Travel Crossbody Purse With Rfid is a good choice if you’re looking for a travel purse that’s both stylish and functional.

It comes in various colors and patterns, so you can find one that matches your style.

It has plenty of pockets to help keep you organized while traveling, and the nylon material is lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down.

The bag’s strap is adjustable, so you can wear it comfortably.

The best part about this bag is its removable RFID-protected phone wristlet that keeps credit cards and IDs from being scanned and stolen.

The phone wristlet also slips on the handle of your rolling suitcase for hands-free travel; you won’t have to worry about dropping it or leaving it behind when you board the train!

The only downside to this spacious bag is that it doesn’t have many compartments inside itself.

If you carry multiple items, they might not do well unless you carefully fold them over themselves first (which could result in creases).

However, this is an excellent option if you’re only carrying a few items and want one that’s secure and hands-free.

• PRACTICAL AND STYLISH: The Baggallini Everywhere crossbody bag brings you a convenient, hands-free design in a stylish, modern shape. The nylon bag comes in a…
• RFID BLOCKING: A removable RFID-protected phone wristlet keeps your credit cards and ID from being scanned and stolen.
• MACHINE WASHABLE: No worry if you get this bag dirty or want it to look brand new. To wash, remove wristlet, place in a washing bag or pillow case, and wash in…

9) Sechunk Military Leather Messenger Bags

We all know that traveling with a big bag is the worst. You carry it on the subway, which is heavy and bulky, so you have to take it off before climbing the stairs.

You move it through crowds and over cobblestones, and it keeps getting caught in your feet.

And then there are all those times you must check your bag because it won’t fit on the plane.

That’s why we love Sechunk’s messenger bag for Europe. It’s slim, sleek, and lightweight and looks great, too!

With six pockets total (one main pocket, two front pockets, and a zippered back pocket), you can easily store everything from your passport to your laptop to your souvenirs from each country you visit.

The high-quality cotton canvas is water-resistant and weatherproof, so your stuff stays dry inside the bag even when things get wet in the rain or snow.

The high-quality imported first layer of leather makes this bag look classy enough for any occasion; it’ll pair perfectly with any outfit, from jeans to suits!

Plus, at just 2.27 pounds, this bag is so lightweight that it’ll feel like it’s not even there.

The shoulder strap is adjustable, so you can wear it over one shoulder or across your body for extra security.

• Main material: use of high-quality cotton canvas, high-quality imported first layer of leather and bronze metal
• Structure: A total of six pockets, one main pocket, outside there are: two front pockets, a zippered back pocket; inside: a zipper pocket,
• Dimensions:’you can put 15-inch laptop capacity: 10L Weight: 1 KG（2.2lb）

10) Gootium 21101 Specially High-Density Thick Canvas Backpack Rucksack

The Gootium 21101 is a great travel purse if you’re planning to go to Europe.

It’s got enough room for all your stuff, plus it looks like an old-school backpack, so it’ll be perfect for carrying around in the streets of old European cities like Paris and Rome.

This rucksack is 100% cotton and has a Nylon lining that helps it resist water and other elements.

The drawstring closure ensures nothing falls out of your bag while on the go. It also features metal fasteners for extra durability and an attractive vintage look.

The main compartment of this rucksack can hold up to 17 inches of laptop or tablet space, so you’ll have plenty of room for your electronics and any other items you need to bring with you during your travels.

There’s also an internal security zippered pocket for valuables like keys or wallets.

And if that weren’t enough, there are two side pockets with button closures and one large front pocket closed by buttons; all three are ideal for storing smaller items like sunglasses or snacks and larger ones like magazines or books.

The bag is made from a durable canvas material treated for water resistance and has a leather handle for carrying.

It also features two adjustable straps in the back that can be attached to other luggage or even worn on your back if you’re traveling light (though it probably won’t fit underneath an airplane seat).

• Thick canvas backpack featuring sturdy metal fastenings ensures long-lasting durability.
• The garment-washed treatment enhances the canvas with a soft and worn-out feel.
• Two sizes available – Overall dimensions: Large (13.5″ x 8″ x 17.7″) and Small (12″ x 8″ x 15″).

What kind of purse should I bring to Europe?

More than any other kind of bag, a purse is a personal item that can reflect your style and personality.

When choosing a European handbag, it’s essential to consider what you’ll do with it. For example:

• Do you need room for a laptop? Will there be times when your purse will sit on your lap during flights?
• Are there other things like umbrellas or water bottles that need to fit in the same space?
• Do you prefer having pockets and compartments or just one central area where everything goes?

When considering what type of purse is best for Europe, consider these factors.

If you plan to travel light and stay in hostels, then a small cross-body bag is probably your best option.

It’s easy to carry around and won’t get in the way of your day, but it can still hold everything you need for a day out on the town or overnight trips.

A giant bag might be right for you if you stay in hotels and have more space.

You will have plenty of room in your purse for all your things without feeling like they spill over into other corners.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, a backpack-style bag is probably the best option.

You’ll have plenty of space for everything you need and won’t have to worry about your hands getting sore from holding onto your bag all day.

What kind of bag should I use in Paris? (or Rome)

When traveling to France, the most important thing to remember is that you want your bag to be small and lightweight.

This will help you avoid any hassles with customs when entering or leaving the country, and it also helps keep your belongings safe in case of theft or loss.

For these reasons, I recommend bringing a cross-body purse or backpack that can quickly zip up and lock shut.

Avoid getting anything valuable with you unless it’s essential, and even then, try to keep it out of sight as much as possible!

The second most important thing to remember is to bring an ID, passport, and visa.

The French government requires all visitors to have these documents on them during their stay in France.

If you do not have them, you cannot enter or leave the country!

The third most important thing to remember is that you should always have money.

France is extremely expensive, so bringing cash with you in an emergency is always a good idea.

Credit cards are accepted at most establishments but can sometimes be challenging if no chip reader is available.

We hope this article has helped you choose the best travel purse for your European trip.

While many factors influence which bag is right for you, at the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference and needs.

If you want something lightweight or with RFID-blocking technology, plenty of options exist!

I'm Alex Deidda, the founder of LoveForTraveling.com. I've lived in various countries, embracing their cultures and wonders. My passion for exploration led to the creation of my website, offering tips, recommendations, and personal travel stories. Follow LoveForTraveling.com for all your travel needs and join me in discovering the world.

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Best Travel Purse for Europe

If you are on the hunt for the best travel purse for Europe, then you have come to the right place. This guide will take you through everything you need to think about when purchasing the perfect bag for your Europe trip.

When it comes to travel purses for Europe, you want them to be both stylish but also practical to fit in everything you need for a day of sightseeing.  When it comes to travel in Europe, you might also like to consider a bag with some built-in security features too.   

This guide on the best handbag for travelling in Europe takes you through everything you need to know to purchase the perfect bag.  I’ll look at the features you need to consider and then take a closer look at some great crossbody bags for Europe travel currently on the market.

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer  here  for more information.  

Our Pick for the Best Travel Purse for Europe: Travelon Anti-Theft Bucket Bag  

Don’t have time to read my entire European purses guide? I just love the Travelon Anti-Theft Bucket Bag .  This is a great size bag; perfect for absolutely everything you need for a day of sightseeing in Europe; you can even fit a bulky DSLR in here.  I also love that all Travelon bags have some built-in safety features too, such as lockable pockets and slash-resistant straps.

Click here to purchase the Travelon Anti-Theft Bucket Bag or keep reading below for more information. 

Comparison Chart for the Best Travel Purses for Europe  

Check out the table below for a quick and easy comparison of the all travel purses for Europe reviewed in this guide.  For further information, keep reading the reviews below.

Things to Consider when Purchasing the Best Handbag for Traveling in Europe

What makes the best purse for travel to Europe depends on a few things.  To ensure you get the best purse for traveling Europe, I recommend you consider the factors below.

The best purse to take to Europe is one big enough to carry everything you need for a day of sightseeing.  What do you plan on bringing in your bag each day?  Will you take a guidebook, a camera, your mobile, wallet, umbrella, water bottle, for example.

Think about what it is that you are likely to carry with you every single day and ensure the bag you purchase has plenty of room for it all.  If you’re the sort of person that leaves the hotel with your phone and coin wallet; then you’re not going to need the same size bag as someone who takes all the things I listed above.

2. Compartments

Once you know what you are likely to take with you each day, you can decide how many compartments you’ll need to help keep your items organised.  Don’t go overboard though, a few compartments are helpful to stay organised, but if you have too many, you won’t remember where you have put everything.

Look for bags with side pockets designed for an umbrella or water bottle, so water doesn’t get on to your other belongings.  I also like a small interior pocket to keep my hotel keys in a safe place while I’m out all day sightseeing.

3. Security Features 

  These days there are some great in-built security features in travel bags.  Some of the security features that come in travel bags include:  

• Slash Proof Construction: Some bags are made with fabric, which includes steel mesh to avoid thieves who use knives to slash open bags to steal your items. Straps can also include steel cables to prevent straps being cut.
• Secret Pockets: You can get travel bags which have hidden pockets or small internal compartments for additional protection for your most valuable items.
• RFID Protection: Many travel handbags have built-in technology that blocks an RFID reader to access your personal information. RFID protection is usually in the form of a special pocket within your bag where you can store your cards to prevent electronic theft.
• Lock: Some travel handbags come with locking zippers as well as the ability to lock the bag to a fixed item such as a table leg.
• YKK Zippers: Ensure your bag has high-quality zippers that can’t be easily pried apart. You also don’t want poor quality zippers that break mid-trip, and you can no longer close your bag.
• Waterproof / Water-Resistant: A waterproof bag or even a water-resistant pack will help protect your items from rainy weather or accidental spillages.

Once you put all your various things in your bag, you may be surprised just how much it weighs. So be sure your crossbody bag has a padded and adjustable shoulder strap to avoid neck and shoulder strain at the end of a long day of sightseeing or travel.

The Best Purse for Travel to Europe Reviews

1. travelon anti-theft cross-body bucket bag.

Travelon makes some great travel purses when it comes to sightseeing in Europe, so it’s no surprise that I feature two in these reviews.  First up is the Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag .

This Travelon bag is a lightweight shoulder bag with plenty of built-in security features.  It has a slash-resistant body and slash-resistant shoulder strap so wannabe thieves can’t do a slash and run.  It also has RFID blocking pockets, lockable zippers and the ability to lock the strap around a chair, post or table to avoid anyone running off with it.

For storage, the bag has a large main compartment offering plenty of room for all your personal items. It also has an interior zippered pocket; two expandable side mesh pockets perfect for your umbrella or water bottle as well as a zippered external pocket.

Despite its large size, this is one of the lightest bags in this review.  Coming in a range of funky colours, this is the perfect day bag for your upcoming Europe trip.

2. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

If you love the sound of the Travelon bag above but aren’t keen on the shape, another option to consider is the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag.  This messenger bag from Travelon is similar in almost all ways to the bucket bag above but has a slightly boxier shape. 

Like the bucket bag, the classic messenger bag is lightweight (although a little heavier) and has all the great Travelon built-in security features.  The classic messenger bag has a slash-resistant body and slash-resistant shoulder strap so wannabe thieves can’t do a slash and run.  It also has RFID blocking pockets, lockable zippers and the ability to lock the strap around a chair, post or table to avoid anyone running off with it.

It also has excellent organisational features such as the four interior pockets, a pen loop and two mesh expansion pockets for an umbrella or water bottle.  

This Travelon crossbody bag is made from polyester and available in so many different colours and is a perfect choice for sightseeing in Europe. 

3. Pacsafe Citysafe CS100

When it comes to anti-theft travel bags, no one does it better than Pacsafe, which is why I’ve included two of their bags in these reviews.  First up is the Citysafe CS100 , which is relatively similar to the bucket bag by Travelon, however a bit smaller, lighter and jammed packed full of security features.

Let’s start by looking at the security features of this bag.  The fabric of this bag contains stainless steel wire mesh to prevent thieves from slashing it, while the straps contain reinforced wire that can’t be cut.  Other security features include built-in RFID safe Blocking Material, lockable zippers, and the ability to secure the bag to a stationary item such as a table leg or chair.

You’re probably not going to get a big bulky camera in here; but there is plenty of room for your mobile, maps, wallet and whatever other small items you like to take with you during the day.  It even has a padded sleeve for an iPad.

For anyone concerned about security during their Europe getaway, the Citysafe from Pacsafe is the perfect solution. 

4. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS200 Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

Travelling with your partner and want to share carrying the day bag?  Then the Metrosafe LS200 is an excellent choice as this unisex bag is perfect for both men and women.  The Metrosafe is slightly smaller than the Citysafe reviewed above and is a boxier shape making it suitable as either a man’s or woman’s crossbody bag.

The Metrosafe contains all the standard Pacsafe security features.  The bag is made from fabric which contains stainless steel wire mesh to prevent thieves from slashing it; while the straps contain reinforced wire that can’t be cut.  It also includes built-in RFID safe Blocking Material, lockable zippers, and the ability to secure the bag to a stationary item such as a table leg or chair.

In the main compartment, there is plenty of room for your wallet, map, mobile and camera.  The bag includes two lockable zippered compartments, two zippered interior pockets, two side pockets for a water bottle or umbrella and there is even a padded tablet sleeve inside.

If you prefer a boxier style crossbody bag, or simply want to share bag duties with your partner while out and about in Europe, the Pacsafe Metrosafe is a great choice.

5. Baggallini Pocket Lightweight Crossbody Bag

Baggallini is another excellent quality brand when it comes to perfect handbags for Europe. This pocket crossbody bag from Baggallini is well worth considering for those that don’t take too much with them during their day trips.

This bag is super lightweight (the lightest in these reviews), yet still has plenty of compartments to store and organise your personal items.  It has a range of interior pockets including a purse with RFID blocking technology built into the lining.  It also has three external zippered pockets too.

The bag itself is made of water-resistant nylon fabric, so there is no need to worry about personal items being destroyed on rainy days.  The strap is adjustable, so you can choose to make it short or as long as you like – wear it as a handbag or across the body. 

This is a stylish travel bag from Baggallini, coming in a range of great colours and the perfect size for those that like to travel with minimal items while sightseeing.

6. eBags Piazza Day bag 2.0 with RFID Security

eBags has some lovely crossbody bags just perfect for your Europe trip and so I have two in these reviews.  First up let’s take a closer look at the Piazza day bag.

There is plenty of compartments in this bag to keep your items well organised.  There are three flat zip back pockets and two side pockets, which can each fit a water bottle. There is also the perfect sized pocket in the back to fit a large smartphone. Inside the bag is an RFID protected pocket with card slots where you can store your credit cards and passport.

This lightweight bag is made with water-resistant fabric and premium self-repairing YKK RC coil zippers making it a great durable bag perfect for everyday use.

With a spot for everything, the Piazza day bag is well worth considering for your European adventures.

7. eBags Villa Crossbody Bag with RFID Security

The Villa crossbody bag by eBags is another great option when it comes to a handbag for Europe travel.  This is a slimline bag with plenty of room for all that you need for exploring the European cities.

The Villa crossbody bag contains a range of compartments to keep your items organised.  Inside the main compartment are passport pocket and card slots which feature RFID reader blocking technology as well as a variety of other pockets.  On the outside of the bag, there are two additional external zippered pockets.  It also has an expansion zipper (like a suitcase), so you can keep the bag nice and compact or expand it when you need to carry a few more items.

Other great features of this bag include self-repairing coil zippers to ensure smooth opening and closing and an adjustable shoulder strap.

Made from soft, lightweight nylon, this bag comes in a range of great colours and has a lifetime warranty so you can be confident you’re purchasing an excellent quality product.

8. NeatPack Crossbody Bag for Women with Anti-Theft RFID

This cross-body bag by NeatPack has plenty of room for all those travel essentials, it’s lightweight and comes in some great colours making it well worth considering for your next trip to Europe.

There is a spot for everything in this roomy crossbody bag.  The main compartment features a zippered RFID pocket for your credit cards and passport as well as two open pockets.  On the outside, there are three front pockets (two zippered and one pocket), a Velcro pocket on the back (great size for a tablet) and a side pocket for your water bottle.

The NeatPack crossbody bag is made from durable, water-resistant nylon, which is easy to clean and features top-quality zippers that won’t pinch when opening and closing.  The bag also features an adjustable and padded shoulder strap.

If you’re looking for the perfect bag for sightseeing in Europe, this bag from NeatPack won’t disappoint!

9. Satchelli Crossbody Bag with RFID Blocking Anti-Theft Wristlet

If you’re after a stylish, yet practical travel purse for using every day during your European trip, this crossbody bag from Satchelli is well worth considering.

This lightweight day bag is the perfect size for storing and organising all your personal items.  Inside the main compartment, it contains a removable RFID wristlet where you can keep your credit cards and passport, two zippered pockets and two pen holders.  On the outside, the bag has three zippered pockets and two side pockets for water bottles.

One of the unique features of this bag is the back sleeve which enables you to attach the bag to a suitcase for easy transport in the airport. This is the only bag in these reviews to have this feature.

Made from a lightweight, durable fabric; this bag is water-resistant and can easily be cleaned with a damp cloth making it perfect for everyday use while you’re enjoying yourself travelling around Europe.  

10. Volganik Rock Crossbody Handbag

Lucky last but yet a fantastic choice, if you’re still looking for a travel bag for Europe, is this crossbody bag from Volganik Rock .  This is a stylish, versatile bag which has plenty of space for everything you need for exploring the cities of Europe.

There are plenty of pockets in this bag so you can be well organised.  The exterior of the purse features three zippered pockets on the front and one on the back. Inside there is a large main compartment (big enough for an A4 piece of paper) with three pen slots and 4 RFID blocking card slots.

This bag is made from stain and water-resistant nylon, which is durable and lightweight.  This bag is so easy to clean, you can simply wipe it down, or you can even pop it in the wash at the end of your trip.

Coming in 8 gorgeous colours, this is a stylish handbag with room for everything you could possibly need, making it an excellent solution for your Europe trip.   

Click here to check the price and to read more reviews

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Affiliate advertising is used throughout this site. These affiliate ads allow me to earn a small commission on any bookings you may make but they do not incur any extra cost to you.

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Best Purse for Travel in Europe: Top Picks for 2024

Traveling to Europe is exciting. You need the right gear to make it comfortable. A secure purse is essential. It keeps your belongings safe as you explore new cities. In this article, we’ll discuss the best purse for travel in Europe and what you should consider when purchasing.

When choosing a purse for travel, there are several factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want a comfortable bag to wear for long periods, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking or sightseeing.

You’ll also want a spacious purse to hold all your essentials, such as your passport, wallet, phone, and camera.

Thank you for supporting us by using the links to shop in our articles! We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) to continue creating helpful, free content. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases on Amazon and other retailers featured on the blog.

Another critical factor to consider is the security of your belongings. Pickpocketing is a common problem in many European cities. You’ll want a purse with features like anti-theft zippers, RFID-blocking technology, and slash-proof straps to keep your valuables safe.

After researching and testing several purses, we’ve found the best purse for travel in Europe that meets all these criteria and more.

In the next section, we’ll dive into the details of our top picks and why we believe it’s the perfect purse for your next European adventure.

Telena Backpack Purse for Women

Rebecca minkoff julian backpack.

• Travelon Anti-theft Tour Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag

• Crossbody with RFID

Small Sling Bag Crossbody

• Travelon Anti-theft Cross Body Bag

Daily Sling Bag

Small crossbody bag, wristlet clutch crossbody bag with chain strap, peak gear hidden travel money belt.

• What features should you look for in a secure travel purse for European trips?

Best Purses for Travel in Europe

Planning a trip to Europe can be exciting, but packing for it can be daunting. One of the most important items to consider is the type of purse you’ll be carrying.

You’ll want something that is both stylish and functional, with enough room to hold all your essentials while also being comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

What do you carry in your purse in Europe

When packing a small purse for European adventures, the goal is to balance minimalism with preparedness. You’ll want to include versatile items that serve multiple purposes without weighing you down.

Whether wandering through ancient ruins, enjoying a café in a bustling city square, or exploring a scenic village, these essentials will ensure you’re ready for the day’s adventures while keeping your load light and manageable. Yes, we carry this even if we’re carrying the best small purse for Europe too.

Here’s a compact list of must-haves that we have in every purse:

• Wallet : With ID, credit cards, and cash.
• Phone : For navigation and photos.
• Portable Charger : To stay connected.
• Collapsible Water Bottle : For hydration.
• Snack : Like a small energy bar.
• Mini Umbrella : For sudden showers.
• Hand Sanitizer : To keep clean.
• Basic First Aid : A few plasters and pain relievers.
• Lip Balm and Sunscreen : In travel sizes.
• Safety Whistle : For emergencies.

To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the best purses for travel in Europe. These purses are practical and fashionable so you can explore the city in style.

If you’re looking for a stylish and functional backpack purse for your European travels, the Telena Backpack Purse for Women is a great option.

• The backpack is made of high-quality PU leather that is soft and pliable, making it comfortable to wear for long periods.
• The bag is spacious and roomy, with multiple pockets and compartments for all your travel essentials.
• The backpack can be worn as a handbag or a backpack, depending on your preference and needs.
• The backpack may not be suitable for those who prefer smaller bags.

This backpack purse is perfect for travelers who want a stylish and functional bag carrying all their travel essentials. With its soft and pliable PU leather material, the backpack is comfortable for long periods. The bag is spacious and roomy, with multiple pockets and compartments to hold your passport, wallet, phone, camera, and other travel essentials.

One of the best things about this backpack purse is its versatility. You can wear it as a handbag or a backpack, depending on your preference and needs. The backpack straps are adjustable, so you can customize the fit to your body. The backpack also has a sturdy handle on top, so you can carry it as a handbag if you prefer.

Overall, the Telena Backpack Purse for Women is a great option for travelers who want a stylish and functional backpack purse for their European travels. It’s comfortable, spacious, and versatile, making it a great investment for your next adventure.

If you’re in search of a practical and stylish backpack for your European travels, the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack is an excellent choice.

• Crafted from genuine leather with black shellac hardware, it ensures durability and a sophisticated appearance.
• Features three compartments and numerous pockets for secure and organized storage, including a discreet back pocket for valuables.
• Its versatile design allows it to be dressed up or down for various occasions, making it a perfect travel companion.
• The backpack’s size isn’t large enough for a weekender bag.

This backpack is an ideal option for those seeking a secure and stylish travel companion for exploring Europe. Its versatile design allows for easy transition between casual sightseeing and formal occasions, making it a practical and stylish choice for the best purse for travel in Europe.

Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Tour Bag

The Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Tour Bag is a great option if you’re looking for a stylish and secure purse for your European travels.

• The roomy compartment with a zippered RFID blocking pocket and padded pocket for an iPad or tablet keeps your belongings safe and organized.
• Two easy access, locking front pockets, and a rear zippered pocket provide quick access to your essentials.
• The mesh expansion pocket for a water bottle is a convenient feature for staying hydrated on the go.
• The bag may be a bit heavy for some travelers, especially if you’re carrying a lot of items.

Crafted with a durable cotton canvas and rich suede trim, this bag has a classic and stylish look. The matte nickel hardware and pinstriped lining add a touch of sophistication. The anti-theft features, including slash-resistant construction, locking compartments, and straps, provide peace of mind while exploring new places.

The bag’s adjustable strap drop length of 14 to 25 inches makes it easy to wear as a crossbody or shoulder bag. The tethered key clip with an LED light is handy for finding your keys in the dark. The bag’s size of 9 x 11.5 x 3 inches makes it a great size for everyday use as well.

In summary, the Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Tour Bag is a great option if you’re looking for a stylish and secure purse for your European travels. Its roomy compartment, convenient pockets, and anti-theft features make it a practical and stylish choice for any traveler.

If you’re looking for a stylish and secure bag to take with you on your European travels, the LATMAP Sling Bag is a great option.

• The anti-theft design keeps your belongings safe and secure.
• The multiple pockets make it easy to organize your items.
• The faux leather material gives it a trendy and fashionable appearance.

This sling bag is perfect for those who want to keep their belongings close and secure while exploring Europe. The anti-theft design ensures that your items are safe from pickpockets, while the multiple pockets make it easy to organize your passport, phone, and other travel essentials. The faux leather material gives the bag a trendy and fashionable appearance, making it a great accessory to any travel outfit.

Overall, the LATMAP Sling Bag is a great option for those looking for a stylish and secure bag to take with them on their European travels. With its anti-theft design, multiple pockets, and trendy appearance, it’s a great accessory for any travel outfit.

If you’re looking for a secure and stylish purse for your European travels, the Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag is an excellent choice. With its 5-point anti-theft security system and cut-proof shoulder strap, you can be sure your belongings are safe while you explore all that Europe has to offer.

• The bag’s locking zippers and slash-proof construction provide excellent security against pickpockets and thieves.
• The bag’s multiple pockets and compartments make it easy to stay organized while on the go.
• The bag’s adjustable shoulder strap is comfortable to wear and can be customized to fit your body perfectly.
• The bag’s small size may not be suitable for travelers who need to carry a lot of items.
• The bag’s water bottle pockets may not be large enough to hold larger water bottles.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag is a great choice for anyone looking for a secure and practical purse for their European travels. Its multiple pockets and compartments make it easy to stay organized, while its cut-proof shoulder strap and anti-theft security system provide excellent protection against pickpockets and thieves.

The bag’s adjustable shoulder strap is comfortable to wear and can be customized to fit your body perfectly, making it ideal for long days of exploring. However, the bag’s small size may not be suitable for travelers who need to carry a lot of items, and its water bottle pockets may not be large enough to hold larger water bottles.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and secure purse for your European travels, the Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag is definitely worth considering.

Crossbody with R FID

If you’re looking for a lightweight and water-resistant purse for your travels in Europe, the Baggallini Pocket Crossbody with RFID is a great option.

• The built-in RFID protection will keep your credit cards and passport safe from electronic pickpocketing.
• The quick-access pockets make it easy to grab your phone or boarding pass without having to dig through your bag.
• The adjustable shoulder strap allows you to wear it as a crossbody or shoulder bag, whichever is more comfortable for you.
• The size is relatively small, so it may not be ideal if you need to carry many items.

The Baggallini Calais Crossbody Bag for Women is a great choice for those who want a stylish, lightweight and functional purse for their travels. The built-in RFID protection is a nice added bonus, and the quick-access pockets make it easy to keep your essentials within reach.

However, the material may not be as durable as some other options, and the size may be too small for those who need to carry a lot of items. Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and practical travel purse, this one is definitely worth considering.

If you’re looking for a stylish and practical bag for your travels, the INICAT Small Sling Bag is a great option.

• The bag is made of high-quality faux leather and comes in a stylish brown color that will match any outfit.
• It has ample pockets to keep your items organized and separated, including a special spot for your cell phone and passport, making it easy to access when going through security.
• The bag is designed to be worn across your body, making it a safe and secure option for your travels.
• The bag may be too small for those who like to carry a lot of items with them.

The INICAT Small Sling Bag is a great option for those who want a stylish and practical travel bag. Its high-quality faux leather and ample pockets make it a great choice for keeping your items organized and accessible, making it one of the best purses for travel in Europe. The bag’s crossbody design is also a safe and secure travel option.

However, those who like to carry a lot of items may find the bag too small, and some users have reported that the hardware is silver in color, rather than gold. Additionally, the lack of a touchscreen window may be a drawback for some users. Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and practical bag for your travels, the INICAT Small Sling Bag is definitely worth considering.

Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Cross Body Bag

If you’re looking for a stylish and functional crossbody bag for your travels in Europe, the Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Cross Body Bag is definitely worth considering.

• The bag is made from cotton and canvas material with suede trim and nickel plated hardware. It is beautifully crafted and designed to age well.
• The bag is lightweight and practical, with plenty of storage to keep your items organized. You can wear it over your shoulder or crossbody for hands-free convenience.
• The bag is stylish and functional, featuring a front zipper pocket, rear slash pocket with a magnetic snap closure, two drop pockets, a tethered key clip with LED light, and a zippered RFID protected wall pocket.
• The bag may not be suitable for formal occasions.

This bag is perfect for those who want to keep their personal information secure while traveling. With Anti-Theft features like hidden slash-resistant stainless steel mesh body panels, locking zippers, adjustable stainless steel cable strap that can be attached to a stationary object to prevent a grab-n-go, and RFID technology to prevent high-tech electronic readers from capturing your personal information, this bag has got you covered.

The bag is also very practical, with plenty of storage to organize your items.

Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and functional crossbody bag for your travels in Europe, the Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Cross Body Bag is definitely worth considering.

If you are looking for a lightweight and durable sling bag for your next travel to Europe, then the ODODOS Daily Sling Bag is a great option.

• The adjustable straps make it easy to wear the bag as a crossbody or chest bag, providing a comfortable fit for all body types.
• The bag is made of high-quality nylon material that is water-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and unpredictable weather conditions.
• The bag has multiple pockets and compartments, including a water bottle holder, that help you stay organized and keep your belongings safe.
• The bag is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for those who need to carry a lot of items.

The adjustable straps make it easy to wear, and the multiple pockets and compartments provide ample storage space. The water-resistant material ensures that your belongings stay safe and dry, even in unpredictable weather conditions.

Overall, if you are looking for a functional and stylish bag for your next trip to Europe, the ODODOS Daily Sling Bag is a great option.

Need a stylish crossbody bag for your next European adventure? Consider the EVVE Small Crossbody Bags.

• The bag is made of high-quality vegan leather that looks and feels like real leather.
• It has a trendy flap saddle design with tassel that adds a touch of fashion to your outfit.
• The bag is lightweight and compact, yet spacious enough to hold your essentials such as phone, wallet, and keys.
• The size might be too small for those needing more than just the essentials.

This crossbody bag is perfect for those who want a stylish and practical bag for their travels. The vegan leather material looks and feels like the real thing, making it a great option for those who want to be eco-friendly. The trendy flap saddle design with tassel adds a touch of fashion to your outfit, making it a versatile bag easily dressed up or down.

Overall, the EVVE Small Crossbody Bags for Women is a great option for those who want a stylish and practical travel bag for Europe. It is perfect for those who want to travel light and keep their belongings close to them. If you are looking for a small and trendy crossbody bag, this might be the perfect fit for you.

A versatile and stylish purse that is perfect for traveling light.

• The purse can be used as a clutch, wristlet, or crossbody bag, giving you multiple options for carrying it.
• The chain strap is the perfect length for wearing the purse on your shoulder or across your body.
• The purse is roomy enough to hold your essentials, such as your phone, wallet, and keys, without being too bulky.
• The chain adds an extra level of security as it’s harder to cut vs leather straps.
• The purse may not be large enough to hold larger items, such as a tablet or book.

The purse is a great option if you’re looking for a versatile and stylish purse for traveling light, and it’s one of the best travel purse for Europe from the list- based on style. Versatile and spacious, this purse is great for a night out or sightseeing.

The purse has a chain strap and faux leather finish. Its magnetic closure is easy to use but less secure than a zipper.

One potential downside to this purse is that the inside may have a strong smell upon first opening it. However, this should dissipate over time. Additionally, the purse may not be large enough to hold larger items, such as a tablet or book.

Overall, this purse is a great choice if you’re looking for a stylish and versatile purse for your travels in Europe.

No, it’s technically not the best travel purse for Europe. Still, if you’re looking for a secure and comfortable way to keep your valuables safe while traveling, then the Peak Gear Hidden Travel Money Belt is definitely worth considering.

• The moisture-wick backing keeps you cool and comfortable, even in warm climates.
• The RFID block protection means you don’t need to worry about electronic theft.
• The theft insurance and lifetime recovery service provides peace of mind.
• The two compartments may not be enough for those who need to carry many items.

This money belt is perfect for those who want to keep their valuables safe while traveling and should be considered in combination with the best purse for travel in Europe so you can have the best time. The moisture-wick backing ensures that you stay cool and comfortable, even in warm climates, while the RFID block protection means you don’t need to worry about electronic theft.

The belt is light, comfortable, and slim, making it the perfect travel accessory whether you’re an occasional airport traveler or an avid backpacker. The unique strap adjusts snugly around the waist. The two compartments and pockets inside the hidden pouch fit multiple US passports and keep credit cards organized.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a secure and comfortable way to keep your valuables safe while traveling, then the Peak Gear Hidden Travel Money Belt is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide: Best Purse for Travel in Europe

When looking for the best purse for travel in Europe, you should keep a few things in mind to ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Here are some features to consider:

Choose a purse that’s spacious yet easy to carry. You’ll need room for your passport, wallet, phone, and essentials.

When traveling in Europe, keep your belongings secure. Choose the right purse for travel. Look for a purse with a secure closure like a zipper or snap. This will prevent pickpockets from stealing your valuables.

You’ll be carrying your purse with you all day, so choosing one that’s comfortable to wear is important. Look for a purse with adjustable straps that can be worn cross-body or over the shoulder, depending on your preference.

Choose a purse made from durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Leather and nylon are both good options, as they’re durable and easy to clean.

Organization

The best purse for travel in Europe will have multiple compartments and pockets to help you stay organized. This will make it easier to find what you need quickly without digging through your purse.

Finally, choose a purse that fits your personal style and the type of travel you’ll be doing. A classic, understated purse might be appropriate for visiting museums and historical sites. A more fashionable purse might be a better fit if you explore trendy neighborhoods. There is no best purse for travel in Europe when it comes to style, this part relies on your personal tastes.

By considering these features, you can choose the best purse for your travel needs, ensuring that you’re comfortable, organized, and secure throughout your trip.

You may also like:

• Read More: Best luggage for travel to Europe
• Read More: 83+ Travel Essentials for Women

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a secure travel purse for European trips?

Security should be your top priority when choosing the best purse for travel in Europe. Choose a purse with anti-theft features like slash-resistant straps and RFID-blocking technology to protect personal information. Choosing a purse that can be securely closed with a zipper or lock is also important to prevent pickpocketing.

In addition to security features, consider the size and style of the purse. Use a compact crossbody or shoulder bag for hands-free convenience in crowded areas. Look for a purse with multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.

WHAT SIZE PURSE IN RECOMMENDED FOR TRAVEL IN EUROPE?

It’s best to opt for a medium-sized purse that is spacious enough to hold essentials like a wallet, passport, phone, and camera but not too bulky to carry around comfortably, although there are some really great small purses as well.

WHAT MATERIAL IS IDEAL FOR A TRAVEL PURSE IN EUROPE?

Durable and water-resistant materials like nylon or leather are often recommended for best travel purses in Europe as they can withstand various weather conditions and provide added protection for your belongings.

Finally, choose the best European travel purse that fits your personal style and preferences. Choose from classic leather or modern designs for secure and stylish European travel.

Marissa is a scientist, sports lover, traveler, tech executive, and baked goods enthusiast. Currently based between Toronto, NYC, and LA, she calls all three places home throughout the year. She has lived in seven countries and explored countless more as a long-term visitor. You can find her work on Darling Escapes and around the web.

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15 BEST Travel Purses for Savvy & Stylish Travelers in 2024

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The best travel purse is the Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag if theft prevention is your highest priority or the Lo & Sons Pearl if you need something a little more versatile and stylish. The Travelon messenger bag has locking zippers and tons of organizational pockets. The lightweight Pearl crossbody bag has zippered compartments and transforms into a clutch for dinners out. I’ve been testing the Pearl for about three months now and it has become a great everyday purse for my travels.

You’ll rarely catch me on the road without a purse or backpack. They’re essential for carrying valuables and staying organized. 

But there are differences between travel purses and everyday purses.

When traveling, you’ll carry extra items like your passport, laptop, and camera (aka valuables that you should keep a tight grip on!). 

And the right travel purses will help you do exactly that.

The best purses for travel are versatile, secure, and comfortable. Some are anti-theft bags, and others double as carry-on luggage when you’re flying.

As a regular traveler who has tested out a lot of purses over the years, I wrote this article to help you find the best purses for travel in every category–from stylish crossbody bags to the best anti-theft purse.

By the end, you’ll know what to consider when choosing the perfect travel purse for you.

Short on time? Here’s a quick look at the top 15 travel purses.

Table of Contents

#1 Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote

Best Stylish Travel Purse

Size: 13.5 x 18 x 5.75” Weight: 1.8 lbs Features: Made from LWG environmentally-friendly tanned leather, zipper top, and zippered interior pocket

The best purses for travel are more than practical, they make you feel glamorous.

Boasting luxurious soft leather, the Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote is a simple slim tote bag. 

This stylish travel purse is great for sightseeing because it holds everything you can possibly need from morning to evening.

The main compartment is spacious and you can even add a Tote Organization Insert for more interior pockets.

If you haven’t seen a pickpocket in action, search it on YouTube. The zipper on this tote is essential for detouring thieves.

Additionally, I feel good buying from Cuyana because they don’t feed the unsustainable fast-fashion industry.

Their durable and classic designs look good year after year.

• Stylish no matter the season
• More secure than the average open-top tote bag
• Built to last
• Only one internal pocket unless you buy the additional tote organizer

#2 Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 

Best Belt Bag

Size: 7.5″ x 2″ x 5″ Weight: 6.7 oz Features: Front zippered pocket, an internal mesh pocket, and a hidden external pocket, adjustable strap, large buckle

Belt bags, aka fanny packs, are hot stuff right now, and the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag functions as a cute travel sling purse or waist bag.

It’s as well-made as any of Lululemon’s other beloved activewear products, which isn’t surprising with the quality. of the Lululemon brand.

One of my favorite features of this bag is the exterior pocket hidden on the backside, which is very important for travel bags.

This means you can easily zip your phone in for easy access without exposing your wallet. 

Meanwhile, the inside mesh pocket is perfect for organizing just the essentials: sunglasses, lip balm, and keys.

Looking for more options? Read our guide to the best hiking fanny packs .

• Best lightweight travel purse
• A stylish and sporty option for touring cities or hiking
• You can wear it in front so your possessions are within view at all times
• Versatile as a day bag, but not as nice for a fancy dinner

#3 Away Packable Carryall

Best Purse for Carry-On Travel

Size: 15″ x 19.7″ x 9″ (6.3” x 4.3” x 2.4” when rolled up) Weight: 0.55 lbs Features: Zipper closure, spacious interior, and made from recycled nylon

Don’t be that person on your next flight who spills the contents of their bag in the middle of the aisle.

Not only is it embarrassing and frustrating, but it’s a good way to lose something.

That’s why it’s essential to have a carry-on purse or tote that zips closed like the Away Packable Carryall .

Its long handle offers comfortable shoulder carrying or holding on top of your roller bag.

And the trolly sleeve and roomy interior easily make this Away bag the best handbag for flying.

It fits a change of clothes, notebooks, a tablet for watching movies, and snacks.

I also always carry a sleeping eye mask and earplugs while traveling, which fit nicely into the interior zip pocket. 

Because it zips closed, I can slip it under a seat or into an overhead bin. Plus, its clean design will never go out of fashion.

• Returnable within 100 days
• Rolls into a small pouch when not in use
• More of a large travel tote
• Trolly sleeve
• Made of recycled nylon
• Not as much structure as a traditional purse

#4 Lo & Sons Pearl

Best Small Crossbody Travel Purse

Size: 7.75” x 9.5” x 3” Weight: 0.9 lbs Features: Lightweight, clutch or crossbody design, internal zippered compartments, and has a key leash

Ready for your small purse dreams to come true?

The Lo & Sons Pearl has the internal space of a Marry Poppins bag but is just the right size for lightweight travel days.

The Pearl also has two external zippered compartments and a smaller zippered pocket in the center. 

I love this bag for its plentiful, yet uncomplicated organization. It’s one of my favorite travel purses.

It comes in Saffiano leather, Nappa leather, and plant-based Cactus leather. And there are several colors to choose between.

But what really makes the Pearl the best small travel purse, is its versatility. It transforms from a crossbody purse to a clutch. Small but mighty!

Alternatively, you might also like the Lo & Sons Waverly 2 , which is a little smaller and comes with a waist belt to transform into a belt bag.

• Slim but has plenty of space
• Detachable crossbody strap and clutch strap
• Available in leather or plant-based vegan leather
• Sleek and stylish
• Plastic-free, metal hardware!
• Doesn’t fit big wallets
• Not as secure as travel purses with locking zippers

#5 Longchamp Pliage Original

Best Travel Purse for Europe

Size: 11” x 10.4” x 6.1” Weight: 7.76 oz Features: Foldable, leather trim, and has a zipper closure

The Longchamp Pliage Original is a leading brand from Paris that will help you blend in among fashionable Europeans.

A French girl in my self-defense class in Italy actually carried this Longchamp tote as her study abroad purse.

It’s no wonder the Longchamp Pliage has a cult following in travel circles–it folds flat for easy packing. 

Plus, it has a genuine leather handle and a water-resistant coated canvas body with leather trim. 

Set this baby down on the damp ground at a sidewalk cafe without worrying about your book getting wet inside.

Overall, this tote offers a high-end look, zips closed, and wipes clean for day-to-day freshness while traveling.

• Stylish purse alternative to a generic canvas bag
• Water-resistant
• Only two organizational pockets inside

#6 Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Cx Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack

Best Convertible Travel Purse Backpack

Size: 8.9” x 9.8” x 4.3” (purse mode); 13.9” x 9.8” x 4.3” (backpack mode)  Weight: 0.99 lbs Features: Expands from a purse to a backpack, locking zipper, and RFID-blocking material

The genius Pacsafe Citysafe Cx Convertible Backpack is the lightest and most versatile bag you’ll find.

I’m always buying souvenirs, books, and snacks while sightseeing. This purse unfolds into a backpack large enough to carry all of your goodies. 

Plus, no worries if there’s a morning drizzle because it’s water-resistant.

Like Travelon bags, the Pacsafe Citysafe Convertible Backpack comes equipped with locking zippers and clips and slash-resistant fabric. 

It’s also made from RFID-blocking material that will protect your credit cards from being scanned.

• Anti-theft technology protects your credit cards
• Sustainable materials 
• A little bulky as a purse

#7 Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag

Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse

Size: 12.5” x 4” x 12” Weight: 15.5 oz Features: Locking clips and zippers, slash-resistant material, RFID-blocking pockets, compact, and it has an adjustable strap

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag is reasonably priced and features a minimalist design for any outfit.

However, what makes this the best crossbody travel purse is its safety features.

This Travelon anti-theft purse has a slash-resistant body constructed from an interlocking mesh barrier, so it can’t be cut open. 

And the adjustable shoulder strap has an internal anti-slash wire and a locking main compartment.

RFID stands for “radio frequency identification.” Some thieves try to scan your credit card information using special devices without ever reaching into your purse.

Not with this purse! The individual credit card slots feature RFID-blocking technology.

The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Shoulder Bag can also lock to stationary objects, so no one can snatch it while you’re relaxing at a sidewalk cafe. 

As a purse for international travel, these features are particularly important. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of travel and be taken advantage of.

Travelon’s Mini version is another of the best purses for travel if you want something smaller. 

This anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag is the ultimate secure lightweight travel handbag to slip on before heading out for the night.

• Travelon anti-theft technology
• Lots of organizational pockets
• Reasonably priced
• Might not fit your aesthetic

#8 Cluci Backpack Purse

Best Travel Purse Backpack

Size: 13.5″ x 6.25″ x 14.25″ Weight: 2.09 lbs. Features: Hidden back zipper pocket, adjustable strap for crossbody-carry, and hand-carry straps

Some of the best purses are convertible backpacks. 

The Cluci Backpack Purse is one example–it can be worn on your back, carried by hand, or slung across your body.

Not to mention, Cluci backpacks are cute and stylish. It’s the kind of bag you’ll want to carry around every day.

In terms of organization, it has stretchy pockets on either side, fits a 14-inch computer, and has a small hidden zipper pocket on the back for securing your wallet.

Made of high-quality PU leather, this is one of the best purse backpacks because it looks super cute and can hold up under daily use.

But if this backpack doesn’t feel quite right for you, check out the famous Fjallraven Kanken Backpack (another favorite of mine).

Looking for more versatile backpack options? Read our guide to the best EDC backpacks .

• Durable and stylish
• Fits a 14-inch laptop and notebooks
• Convertible from a backpack to a purse
• Zippers don’t come with locks–but luggage locks are cheap!

#9 Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote Bag

Best Luxury Travel Purse

Size: 12.25″ x 8.75″ x 4.7″ Weight: 2.1 lbs Features: Zips closed, four internal pockets, fits up to a 13” laptop, and features a pebbled leather

This Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote Bag is elegant and sophisticated whether you’re on a work trip or out for coffee in a new city.

It works well as a travel bag because the top zips closed and it goes with any outfit. Plus, there’s an internal zipper compartment to keep your wallet extra safe. 

Inside, it’s easy to keep everything organized with the internal side pockets. It’s the perfect size for carrying the necessities plus a little more.

Just keep in mind, that it’s a shoulder bag, which isn’t optimal if you prefer crossbody-carrying.

There aren’t any external pockets, but sometimes that’s for the best since everything will be securely zipped inside.

This large zippered tote is made from premium leather for a refined style.

It will look right at home on your European vacation and add to the glamour of your travel pictures.

• Stylish all day and all night
• Zipper-protected middle pocket
• Made from quality materials
• Fits a small water bottle
• Can’t be worn across the body

#10 Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

Best Purse with a Water Bottle Holder

Size: 9″ x 12.5″ x 3.5″ Weight: 10.4 ounces Features: Lockable clips and zippers, slash-resistant strap and outer panels, and a key leash with a light

The Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag has all of the same features as the other Travelon bag on this list, but it’s a little bigger and has a water bottle pouch. 

I highly recommend buying anti-theft travel purses or messenger bags if you expect to be in heavy crowds.

This Travelon anti-theft bag isn’t quite as fashionable as some of the other purses on this list.

However, the lockable zippers, adjustable shoulder strap, and slash-resistant material will reduce your risk of being pickpocketed. 

This messenger bag also has RFID-blocking material so that thieves can’t scan your credit cards while standing next to you.

• Anti-theft technology
• Water bottle holder
• Super durable messenger bag
• The mesh water bottle holder will tear if you overload it

#11 PINCNEL Backpack Purse

Best Waterproof Travel Purse

Size: 12.99” x 5.9” x 13.28” (medium); 13.78” x 6.69” x 14.17” (large) Weight: 1.3 lbs (medium); 1.54 lbs (large) Features: The main compartment unzips on the back instead of the top for anti-theft protection

The most unique feature of the PINCNEL Backpack Purse is its anti-theft design. 

Unlike traditional backpacks with a zippered front pocket, this pack opens from the back. You have to take it off to reach inside. 

This is important because no one can access your laptop or wallet while you’re standing in line…and we all know how many lines there are while traveling.

It’s also made from waterproof nylon and comes in two sizes and six colors. And it includes internal organizer pockets and a small zipper pouch.

PINCNEL stands apart from the standard anti-theft backpacks, which aren’t quite as cute.

With this rucksack, you’ll have peace of mind, making it a good bag for stylish and safe travel.

• Anti-theft design
• Very affordable without sacrificing style
• Max laptop size is 11 inches

#12 Lola Mae Quilted Crossbody Bag

Best Budget Travel Purse

Size: 8” x 2” x 6” Weight: 1.46 lbs Features: 30 colors to choose from, zips closed, and its internal organization

Being a broke backpacker doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice style. 

The Lola Mae Quilted Crossbody Bag is cute and affordable for every budget-conscious jet-setter.

For the price, you obviously aren’t getting Louis Vuitton leather, but it’s still made from good quality materials and wipes clean. 

This is also the perfect Goldilocks crossbody bag: not too big and not too small. 

While wearing it, you can easily adjust the crossbody shoulder strap to keep your valuables close and secure in the zippered pocket. 

• Very affordable
• Looks high fashion
• Crossbody design
• Versatile size that’s not too big or small
• No locking compartments
• Doesn’t come with the clutch strap

#13 Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bag

Best Durable Travel Purse

Size: 9” x 13.5” x 5” Weight: 1 lb Features: Multiple pockets inside and out, trolly sleeve, water bottle holder, and it comes in unique prints

Crossbody purses feature a comfortable design, sitting against your hip or under your arm and offering automatic theft protection.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is a hobo-style crossbody purse built for travelers and anyone who wants an ergonomic purse to carry everything in one place.

Baggallini is a trusted brand known for its durability. This purse is also machine washable, which boosts its longevity by looking fresh again and again.

Additionally, the Everywhere Bag slides onto a luggage handle and features an RFID-blocking lining to protect your credit cards from hackers.

And the exterior pockets are convenient for less important items like granola bars and hand sanitizer.

It’s also super adjustable with a shoulder strap that reaches 52” and an adorable matching coin purse. 

The one downside? Unlike other anti-theft travel purses, the zippers don’t lock. If this is a deal-breaker, check out the Travelon travel purses above.

Overall, this stylish travel purse is for anyone who prioritizes practical features. You really can’t go wrong with a Baggallini purse.

• Trusted brand
• Lots of colors
• Multiple pockets
• A little bulky
• Not as fashionable

#14 BAGSMART Laptop Bag

Best Laptop Travel Bag

Size: 17.1″ x 6.5” (up to 8.7”) x 13″ Weight: 2.31 lbs Features: Expandable pockets, zippered external pocket, adjustable crossbody strap

This BAGSMART Laptop Bag is practical without looking too techy. It has a padded laptop sleeve that fits 17.3-inch laptops.

The outside is made of water-resistant polyester, and it’s even expandable.

Cushioned straps distribute the weight of a heavy computer to help prevent shoulder pain.

As a travel laptop bag, it’s also very important to note that the main compartment zips closed.

The last thing I want is for someone to reach in and grab important work documents.

Or for pens and sticky notes to fall out when I slip my bag under the seat on a plane. 

Overall, this bag’s large capacity means that it can double as a carry-on and an everyday bag, no matter where your travels take you.

• Sleek and professional
• Slim but spacious expandability
• Comfortable straps
• Long handle drop is comfortable over the shoulder or carried in hand
• No anti-theft technology
• Not high fashion

#15 Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack

Best Purse for New Moms

Size: 11” x 13.5” x 7” Weight: 1.75 lbs Features: Made from recycled materials, with a detachable shoulder strap, grab straps, and everything from stroller clips to a changing pad.

Now it’s time for the best on-the-go travel purse for moms.

Having a baby shouldn’t stop you from looking your best and traveling the world. 

The Dagne Dover Wade Diaper Tote is my favorite purse diaper bag where parents can fit everything they need, from diapers to baby bottles and fruit rollups to swimsuits. 

Its main compartments are spacious, and there’s even a spot for 13″ laptops–not that the baby is coming on business trips, but maybe a “working play date.”

And Dagne Dover has you covered with included features like a washable water-resistant bag for soiled clothes, stroller clips, a mini pouch, and a changing mat.

Plus, the Premium Neoprene and Performance Air Mesh are made of recycled water bottles for sustainable luxury.

The cushiony material is an excellent alternative to leather when you’re around kids. It’s just what new moms need.

• You can carry it two ways
• Goes with any outfit
• Nine pockets, plus plenty of open space
• Detachable strap
• Doesn’t look like a diaper bag
• A little boxy
• Not the best backpack option

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Travel Purse

What to Look for in a Travel Purse

Versatility

While traveling, your purse needs to work around the clock. Choose something that will look good at your most casual and glamorous moments.

Organization

If you like to toss everything into a soup of lip balm and pens, go for a big zippered tote. 

If you believe everything has its special place, double-check that there are plenty of organizational pockets.

Travel bags range in style from crossbody to sling, belt, backpack, and shoulder totes. 

Choose something that feels comfortable for your body type and fashion style.

Portability

Traveling with a lightweight purse is liberating. Additionally, look for something that fits in your luggage if you don’t plan to wear it every day.

When sightseeing all day, you need a purse with shoulder straps that don’t make your shoulders sore in the first hour.

Consider the types of purses you’ve enjoyed in the past. 

A convertible purse means that you can change the carrying position throughout the day.

Anti-Theft Features

As a traveler, you’re more vulnerable to pickpockets. You’ll be tired, distracted, and out of your element.

This is why it’s good to look for anti-theft features like slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets. 

Types of Travel Purses

Small vs Medium vs Large

The smaller the purse, the more portable it will be. This is especially important if you like to go out at night.

Medium purses and convertible backpacks are perfect for all-day adventures when you want to carry snacks, a camera, or a water bottle. 

On travel days, large purses are handy for carrying valuables instead of risking having them stolen or damaged in a rolling suitcase. 

If I have the space, I usually carry at least two differently-sized purses with me on my travels. 

I generally pack one small purse for going out at night or to dinner and one medium/large purse for daytime adventures and travel days.

Anti-theft purses come with special features like locking compartments and an RFID-blocking pocket to keep you safe from thieves. 

Fashionable/Luxury

Luxury bags are the perfect travel purses for France, Italy, and other fashion-renowned places.

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not enjoy being part of the fashion scene? 

Plus, depending on where you’re traveling, you might fit in more as a local and, therefore, not be as targeted by pickpockets. 

Convertible Purses 

The best purses for travel are versatile. I especially like purses that transform into backpacks for carrying my accumulation of souvenirs and brochures.

Totes are always in style and allow you to carry everything your heart desires. 

Make sure to choose a tote with enough organization on the inside, and keep in mind that all of the weight is carried on one shoulder.

It’s also not as hands-free as a crossbody bag.

Shoulder Bag

Shoulder bags have longer shoulder straps than tote bags. They hang on the shoulder and free up your hands a little better.

Crossbody Bags

Crossbody bags are hands-free and sit on your hip for safekeeping. Plus, the crossbody design helps distribute the weight evenly. 

It’s unsurprising why they’re one of the most popular styles for travel purses. 

Sling bags are another great option if you want a hands-free purse. They hug your body and sit under your arm for safekeeping. 

Typically, sling bags have a lower capacity, which is perfect for going out but not the best for a carry-on bag.

FAQs About Travel Purses

What style of purse is best for travel? 

First of all, the best purse for traveling is something that you feel comfortable using. 

I prefer anti-theft crossbody purses because they’re comfortable, easy to keep track of, and overall a very versatile bag.

What is the safest type of purse to travel with?

An anti-theft travel bag is the best option for protecting your belongings. They’re built with safety in mind. 

Most have a locking main compartment and special materials that utilize the crossbody or shoulder bag design.

What type of travel bag goes with everything? 

Black leather is the little black dress of purses. It matches every outfit, activity, and time of day.

Likewise, a medium size purse with a simple design looks good while eating lunch along the Parisian Seine or touring castles in Germany.

What should I pack in my travel purse?

Aside from a wallet, keys, and phone, pack anything that will keep you healthy and comfortable during a long and strenuous day of sightseeing.

This might include:

• Books and travel guides
• Notebook/sketchbook
• Pens/pencils
• Hand sanitizer
• Water bottle

How do you stop a bag from getting snatched or pickpocketed?

The first and most important rule for avoiding theft is vigilance. Be aware of your bag and surroundings at all times.

Don’t leave your purse where you can’t see it or put a hand on it. Keep it close, in your lap at a cafe, and wear it on the front in crowded areas.

Especially on public transportation, don’t appear too lost in your thoughts or like you don’t know where you’re going.

Once you’ve covered the basics, anti-theft technology can close any gaps. 

Should I even travel with a purse?

I always bring a purse on my travels. You’ll want to have essentials with you even when you leave your luggage behind at your hotel, hostel, or vacation rental. 

Travel purses vs backpacks–which one is better?

I’m a big proponent of backpack purses because they’re the most comfortable for my body.

That said, backpacks are out of your line of sight and therefore more vulnerable to pickpockets.

Some packs, like the PINCNEL Anti-Theft Rucksack , have solved this problem and are well-protected with hidden pockets.

It ultimately comes down to what fits your style and body best. 

Conclusion: Our Pick for the Best Travel Purse

So, which is the best pick out of all the travel purses on this list? 

All of the options in this article have their benefits, depending on what’s most important to you when you travel.

However, my personal favorite is the Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag .  

It features a simple design with a ton of interior organization and safety features.

The body and strap are made of slash-resistant material, and each pocket zips closed with anti-theft zippers.

And you can choose between the sleek black, stylish enough to go with everything option, or a pattern, which is tasteful and fun.

This is the perfect bag for carry-on travel or for a full day of adventures when you need peace of mind.

Plus, it comes from a trusted travel brand and will last for years.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for an even more stylish purse, I can’t get enough of the Lo & Sons Pearl . 

This purse comes in leather and vegan leather with 20 color and material combinations to match your style.

There are two zipper pockets for your wallet and phone and slip pockets for lip balm and masks, so it’s great for staying organized as well.

It’s small enough to take on any adventure and big enough to pack all the essentials, plus a notebook for a day of exploring.  

It’s one of the best crossbody bags for looking professional and fashionable. Plus, it transforms into a clutch or shoulder bag when needed. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elina Ansary

As a visual artist, Elina is a frequent traveler and pathological overpacker who often finds herself transporting lots of objects while traveling–from artwork to art materials to gifts and souvenirs. She’s tried tons of different suitcases, backpacks, purses, and bags in her quest to resolve her baggage dilemnas. She grew up in San Francisco, CA, and spent her childhood camping up and down Northern California.

These days, Elina visits artist residencies in locations around the world, including Amsterdam, Finland, Italy, and Australia, and has exhibited her work in galleries and museums in the US and abroad. When she isn’t writing and editing for The Atlas Heart, Elina is pursuing a Master’s degree in Visual Art at Cornell University and splits her time between Ithaca and Brooklyn.

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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