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The 11 Best Sling Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our favorite sling bags come in a variety of styles and sizes for any trip type.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others 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 / Alli Waataja

Sling bags have become wildly popular in the last few years, but the crossbody-style bags have always been a staple for traveling. Sling bags typically have a larger capacity than an average purse while still feeling compact and secure since you can easily swing the bags to the front of your body.

Whether you’re in search of the perfect travel bag for flying, hiking, shopping, or for everyday use like running errands, we got our hands on more than 30 sling bags from trusted brands to find the best of the best for anyone’s needs. From outdoorsy bags made with weather-proof materials to chic leather slings to pair with any outfit, we found a variety of top-tier bags that impressed us with a functional design for staying organized and high-quality materials that will last no matter where your travels take you.

Best Overall

The north face isabella sling.

The North Face

• Capacity 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

The capacity is big enough to fit essential items without feeling bulky.

It has a sportier look.

The North Face’s Isabella Sling is the perfect pack for traveling and everyday use — in fact, we used it a few times each week for six months and were surprised at how well it's held up. The 9-liter capacity is generous enough to fit a tablet, snacks, and a wallet with plenty of room to spare, but it’s still lightweight and compact to carry around. There are various pockets on the interior and exterior for staying organized and we’re big fans of the padded pocket on the strap for safeguarding a phone or sunglasses while out and about. Made out of durable recycled heathered polyester, the sling bag feels thick and well-made, so we didn’t run into any issues with quality during testing. The strap and back panel have ample padding for comfort and the crossbody strap is adjustable to get the perfect fit. It does have a more rugged look, but the functionality and organization make it well worth it whether you’re hiking, running errands, or sightseeing.

The Details: 14.5 x 9.5 x 5.5 inches | Recycled 300D heathered polyester | 9 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jodi Espinosa

Best Expandable

Peak design field pouch v2.

Peak Design

It can double in size for versatility.

The strap could be more comfortable.

Sometimes you need more or less space in a bag depending on the intended use, which makes Peak Design’s expandable sling bag incredibly versatile. While it’s designed to store a small camera, it can also hold everyday items like a phone, passport, wallet, and headphones. The sling bag has a 1.5-liter capacity that can easily expand to three liters thanks to the velcro front flap and there are several dividers inside the bag to organize packed items. Weather-proof and sturdy, the nylon canvas material looks as sleek as it is durable with a structured and lightweight build. Our only gripe with the sling bag is that the adjustable crossbody strap doesn’t match the high-quality feel of the bag materials, so we wish it was a different material for aesthetic and comfort purposes. However, the bag also comes with belt loops to wear the pack on standard and photo-specific belts.

The Details: 9.4 x 7.5 x 0.4 inches | Nylon canvas | 1.5 or 3 liters | Weather-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Dylan Thompson

Cotopaxi 13L Sling Pack

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

It’s plenty big enough to fit jackets, water bottles, snacks, and tablets.

It might be too big to use as a daily bag.

Cotopaxi’s spacious sling pack is basically a mini backpack with a crossbody strap instead, which makes it perfect for long days away from home when you want some extra storage. The 13-liter capacity makes it easy to pack a variety of items in the pack thanks to the large main compartment for jackets, tablets, or a water bottle, and the several smaller pockets are fit for car keys or phones. Since the sling is made with TPU-coated nylon for water resistance, you can wear it in the rain, snow, or sleet without any fear of the packed items getting wet or damaged. We love that the pack can be worn over the right or left shoulder depending on personal preference and the padding on the back panel and strap provide noticeable comfort no matter where your day takes you. After six months of hiking and bike-riding while wearing the bag, it still looks new and has become a reliable part of our outdoor routine.

The Details: 18 x 10 x 5 inches | Recycled 840D TPU-coated nylon | 13 liters | Weather-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

Best Rugged

Kavu rope bag sling pack.

The adjustable rope strap molds to the body for a flexible and comfortable fit for activities.

The rope can be rough on bare skin.

For outdoorsy trips that include hiking, biking, or an activity out in Mother Nature, we recommend the Kavu Rope Sling. It’s made with a water-resistant polyester material that comes in dozens of outdoor-inspired prints and patterns, which also makes it a good gift option for nature lovers. Besides the unique fabric designs, this bag proved to excel in comfort during testing thanks to the flexible rope crossbody strap that contours to the upper body and balances the weight of the pack. We found the rope strap to be slightly rough on bare skin, so we recommend having a layer of clothing between the strap and the skin for the most comfort. With a 10-liter capacity, the lightweight pack can store everyday essentials like jackets, water bottles, and snacks, and there are various pockets for storing both small and large items.

The Details: 20 x 11 x 5 inches | Polyester | 10 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Kathryn Standing

Best for Water Bottles

Nomatic navigator sling.

It has convenient internal and external water bottle pockets.

After six months of testing, we noticed it can be hard to remove stains from the textured fabric.

Stay hydrated on the go with this sleek and functional Nomatic sling bag that offers not one, but two designated water bottle pockets. The structured design of the 6-liter bag makes it easy to place various items like a tablet or jacket in the bag without losing its shape. The interior has a water bottle sleeve and several zippered pockets, and the exterior features a side slip pocket to conveniently access another bottle or phone without having to reach into the bag. While this is one of the pricier bags we tested, it comes with extra features like a removable stabilizing strap, a RFID-blocking pocket, and a designated tablet sleeve for devices up to 11 inches long. Plus, the sturdy nylon fabric is water resistant, so this pack is fit for running errands or commuting to work in inclement weather.

The Details: 9 x 4 x 3.5 inches | Nylon | 6 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham

Best Padding

Osprey daylite sling backpack.

• Capacity 2 /5
• Portability 5 /5

The back panel is lined with a padded spacer mesh material for superior comfort and breathability.

The crossbody strap isn’t fully padded.

During testing, this sporty sling bag impressed us with superior comfort and breathability thanks to the padded and mesh-lined back panel. The bag has an anatomical design to fit comfortably on the back or chest whether the bag is worn over the right or left shoulder, and we were big fans of the convertible option. With a 6-liter capacity, this bag is on the smaller side, but it can still fit everyday essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and earbuds. The main compartment is spacious and easy to access, and there are just a few pockets to keep your small items organized. While we found this bag to be exceptionally lightweight and comfortable to carry, the crossbody strap is only padded around the shoulder and then it becomes a regular nylon strap that you can adjust for a tighter or looser fit. During our six-month tests, we even spilled coffee on the bag and were able to throw it in the washing machine on a delicate cycle and it cleaned up perfectly.

The Details: 14.17 x 8.66 x 5.12 inches | Recycled polyester | 6 liters

Travel + Leisure / Kristen Cleveland

Vera Bradley Mini Sling Backpack

It’s the perfect size for storing everyday essentials.

It feels a bit bulky to wear for long periods of time.

For travelers looking for a sling bag that is just as stylish as it is functional, this Vera Bradley one is the best bet. It can easily fit a wallet, phone, book, or other smaller items, and the main compartment is surprisingly spacious with several front pockets to conveniently access credit cards and a phone when you’re in a hurry or multi-tasking. The sling bag is quite a bit smaller than any type of backpack, but we did feel like the bag was a bit bulky to wear as a fanny pack, so it’s most comfortable to wear as a sling bag with the main compartment in the back. Arguably, the best part of any Vera Bradley travel accessory is the bold colors and patterns, so we love the various floral prints or solid color options this sling comes in.

The Details: 13.5 x 7 x 2.5 inches | Recycled polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Hyman

Best for Runners

Janji sling bag.

The bag is deceptively slim, but it can stretch to hold items as big as water bottles.

It’s designed for runners, but can be worn for everyday use.

While the Janji Multipass Sling Bag is technically designed for runners, we think it works well for highly active travelers as well. The sleek and slim shape of the bag makes it easy to wear it over the shoulder, across the body, or around the waist for a comfortable and convertible fit. It looks small capacity-wise, but we were thoroughly impressed to see that the bag could hold everyday items like a wallet, phone, and keys, and there’s a bungee cord in the back of the sling to secure a jacket or water bottle while on the go. The durable polyester material is ultra-lightweight and water-resistant, so after six months of use it still looks new. Plus, runners will also appreciate the slim design for light packing and crossbody strap for extra security during strenuous activities.

The Details: 6.5 x 6.25 x 4 inches | Polyester, nylon | 2 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Cluci Sling Bag

The stylish and functional bag is a fraction of the price compared to other bags we tested.

The materials show noticeable wear and tear over time.

In a pinch for a last-minute travel bag? This faux leather sling bag can be shipped quickly with an Amazon Prime membership and it goes with virtually any outfit. We’re big fans of the medium size of the main compartment that can hold a book, wallet, and sunglasses with ease, and we were able to squeeze in lip balm and keys in the smaller interior pockets, too. The material is soft like regular leather and the nylon woven strap doesn’t dig into the skin or cause any discomfort. The bag does show some slight wear and tear on the external material after six months of use, but we still think the value is excellent given the lower price and overall style.

The Details: 15.5 x 6.9 x 2.8 inches | Vegan leather | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Quince Italian Pebbled Leather Sling Bag

• Value 4.5 /5

The Italian leather material gives the bag a sleek and timeless look.

The leather material is not water resistant.

If you’re in search of a sling bag to complement a brunch-worthy outfit, then Quince’s Italian leather sling bag is the best option. The soft pebbled leather feels high-quality and proved to be scratch-resistant throughout our six months of tests while the cotton lining on the interior protects the bag and the items packed inside. We love that the bag is medium-sized so it can easily fit phones, wallets, earbuds, and passports, and it doesn’t feel cumbersome to carry across the chest or around the waist, The nylon belt can be a bit finicky to adjust due to the metal hardware, but you can adjust it to a range of lengths to wear the bag in different ways. Plus, the chic sling bag comes in three earth-toned colors, including brown, beige, and black.

The Details: 11 x 5.75 x 1.5 inches | Leather, cotton

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Best Organization

Patagonia atom sling bag.

There are tons of pockets and dividers to organize your items neatly.

The asymmetrical design means it can only be worn over the right shoulder.

The intuitive and useful design of Patagonia’s Atom Sling Bag won us over in the organization department since it has the ideal number of pockets for storing items. The various pockets combined with the 8-liter capacity means that everything has a spot without getting lost in a void of empty space. For storing books or a tablet, the main compartment has a fabric divider to keep more fragile items separated, and there is a spacious front zippered pocket for placing grab-and-go items like sunglasses, car keys, or earbuds. Best of all, the small pocket on the strap of the bag is perfect for storing a phone so you can be totally hands-free while traveling. We spilled sunscreen on the bag during our six month tests and were able to clean it off using a small amount of dish soap. One thing to note is that the asymmetrical design of the sling can only be worn over the right shoulder, so if you’re used to wearing a sling bag over the left shoulder, you’ll have to get used to the different (but super comfortable) feel of this bag.

The Details: 13.5 x 9 x 3 inches | Recycled polyester, nylon | 8 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jill DeForest Colvig

Other Sling Bags We Liked

We’re still fans of the sling bags listed below, but we ran into some slight issues during testing that prevented several from making our winner’s list.

Codeofbell Annex Carrier 3-way Sling : The modular design is ideal for versatility, but when the bag is packed full, it feels bulky and cumbersome to carry.

Nike Sportswear Essentials Sling Bag 8L : We were impressed with the durability and high-quality feel of the materials, but the bag is awkward to carry and difficult to adjust to find a comfortable fit.

We researched and selected 16 sling bags in various sizes, colors, and designs to find the best options on the market. For several months, we wore the sling bags for activities like air travel, running errands, and hiking to take notes on the functionality of each sling bag. Specifically, we paid close attention to the quality of the materials, analyzing how durable the zippers, fabric, and buckles feel with rough handling. We also noted how easy it was to access items and the overall comfort of the sling bag after being worn for hours on end. The best sling bags we recommend are easy to adjust for a comfortable fit, have multiple intuitive pockets for organizing items, and are made with long-lasting and highly durable materials that will ensure the bag has a long lifespan.

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Tips for Buying a Sling Bag

Decide what materials you need.

One of the most compelling reasons to invest in a sling bag is that it can be your most versatile accessory in a wardrobe capsule. Since sling bags come in all types of fabrics and sizes, you’ll want to consider your primary use of the bag. Outdoor enthusiasts will likely gravitate toward a bag with a more rugged look with nylon or canvas materials that are weather-proof and can handle rigorous activities like hiking, running, or biking. Travelers looking for a more everyday-style bag will appreciate leather material that they can dress up or down easily for day-to-nighttime use.

Strike a balance between style and features

Of course, the look and feel of a sling bag are big factors when deciding which one to get, but you can’t forget to consider the most important thing: functionality. If a sling bag is uncomfortable to wear, you might not use it as much, so you’ll want to make sure you get a bag that offers features like an ambidextrous design to wear over either shoulder. You’ll also want to make sure that the bag has a variety of intuitive pockets and smooth zippers that make it easy to swing the bag to the front of the body to grab items conveniently.

In general, a sling bag can be either a crossbody bag or belt bag, but you can’t wear a sling pack around your waist like a fanny pack. Sling bags are designed with one single crossbody strap that can sometimes be worn on either shoulder, but never around the waist like a fanny pack. Wearing a belt bag over a sling bag has become a wildly popular trend, but sling bags don’t usually offer the same modular design as a fanny pack. Sling bags are also bigger than a fanny pack or crossbody bag with capacities from 6 to 13 liters.

Since sling bags are a bit bigger than a traditional fanny pack, travelers can fit essentials like wallets, passports, earbuds, and phones, along with a few bigger items like a book, sweater, or tablet. While it depends on the size and capacity of the sling bag, they are excellent personal items to bring on an airplane or used for everyday activities like running errands or sightseeing.

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 tested a sling bag herself and combed through product testing notes to recommend the best of the best sling bags for traveling, running errands, and shopping.

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How To Choose The

Best Sling Bag

The minimalist's guide to selecting a sling bag for travel, everyday carry, and beyond.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 04. Function
• 05. Aesthetic
• 06. Conclusion

Ready to embrace the sling bag trend? Step one: read this guide.

Connect in a new country with an eSIM. Check it out →

The Short Answer: The Best Sling Bags for Travel, EDC, and Beyond

Click for more information about these top picks and why we like them.

• 8.7/10: Aer Day Sling 3
• 8.6/10: Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L
• 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Side Effect
• 8.3/10: Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L (V2)
• 8.3/10: Mission Workshop Spar Sling
• 8.3/10: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
• 8.3/10: Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• 8.2/10: Chrome Industries Kadet
• 8.2/10: Patagonia Atom Sling
• 8.2/10: Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• 8.1/10: EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack 3.5L

How to Choose the Best Sling Bag for Travel and Beyond

The ’90s are back and with them, the slightly edgier, far more hipster cousin of fanny packs—sling bags (and scrunchies, but that’s a guide for another time). Sling bags are, yes, a fashion statement, but also a convenient way to carry the essentials while traveling the world. Think of them as the middle ground between a backpack and your pockets.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through how to choose the best sling bag for your situation, which means diving into all of the different aspects and explaining what works best for a variety of situations. We’re also going to provide some specific sling bag recommendations based on months of testing.

This guide is written and informed by the Pack Hacker team, all of whom are gear fiends, and some of whom have been wearing sling bags since before they were cool (#hipster). Testing and reviewing gear is our bread and butter here at Pack Hacker—our team of world travelers and digital nomads have tested and reviewed hundreds of different types of travel-specific gear at this point. In fact, we have used nearly all of the sling bags mentioned in this guide (and we’ll be getting our hands on those we haven’t very soon).

By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be a sling expert with all the knowledge necessary to find the best sling bag for you—or your mom, your friend, your dog, etc.

Remember, there’s no one sling bag to rule them all, there’s just the best sling bag for you . So we highly suggest reading our complete guide to figure out your best fit (your future favorite one might not have made this list).

Video Overview: 10 Sling Bags | Should You Travel With One?

Feel free to watch this guide overview in video format. We’ll go more in-depth in the written content and keep this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video.

What is a Sling Bag?

This question is not as straightforward as it seems. It’s taken a team of six bona fide gear reviewers analyzing 50+ sling bags and hip packs for over two months to come up with an answer we can all get behind (and there’s still some ambiguity).

Here’s the definition we’ve landed on: A sling bag is (drum roll, please…) a bag that’s designed to be worn comfortably across the chest or back and secured to the body with a cross-shoulder style strap. The buckle tends to be off-center, the straps connect diagonally, and the body of the bag tends to have an oblong shape—we say “tends to” because there are quite a few exceptions, which we’ll get into later.

One small clarification is that while sling bags and messenger bags have a similar thing going on with the single, crossbody style of strap—the two aren’t synonymous. Messenger bags are usually bigger, boxier, and don’t contour to the body, but there’s no exact science. Really, you can go with your gut here. We tend to think you’ll know a messenger bag when you see one.

There is a massive variety of sling bag styles out there, including tactical slings (for outdoor sportsman stuff), high-fashion slings (think Gucci), and backpack slings ( spacious enough for a laptop ). While we’ll touch on those, we’re mainly going to focus on sling bags for travel in this guide.

What’s the Difference Between a Sling Bag and a Hip Pack?

You’ll see people on the internet equating sling bags with hip packs (or waist packs, fanny packs, bum bags, belt bags, whatever you want to call them), but sling bags and hip packs aren’t one and the same. We repeat: sling bags and hip packs are not the same things.

Simply put, a hip pack is the rebranded fanny pack, while a sling bag is something different (it’s the hipster cousin, remember?). A hip pack can almost always be a sling bag, albeit not necessarily a good one, but a sling bag is virtually never a hip pack (like a square is a rectangle, but a rectangle is not a square).

That said, almost every single company out there has its own definition of a sling bag and a hip pack. To make things even more complicated, some companies will throw in the term “crossbody bag” to describe what we consider a sling bag. So, it gets messy—and our rules and definitions are by no means absolutes.

In this guide, we won’t be discussing hip packs. Getting into the nitty-gritty of sling bags is complicated enough.

Why a Sling Bag?

Now that you know what a sling bag is, let’s talk about why one will change your life (or, at the very least, make carrying stuff easier).

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your In-Flight Essentials

Since wearing one backpack on the front and one on the back hasn’t caught on yet (yes, we’re surprised too), a sling bag becomes a great place to keep your pocketable items, especially while in transit. Just toss all of your stuff in your sling and throw the entire thing in a bin as you breeze through airport security like a pro, thus avoiding the much-dreaded “security shuffle.”

And, unlike pockets, a sling bag will fit almost everything you could ever want in-flight (within reason—a masseuse obviously won’t fit). Of course, what you carry in your sling bag is as unique as you are. Here are a few suggestions based on what works for us:

• A smartphone
• Snacks (arguably the most important)
• Tech chargers
• Battery bank
• Earplugs (every plane has at least one crying baby, even if it’s your own; it’s like a law of physics or something)
• Notebook and pen (something about being at 35,000 feet gets the creative juices flowing)
• An e-reader or book (depending on your sling; some are too small to fit one)

Once in flight, you can use a carabiner to hook your sling bag to the seat in front of you. That way, you can quickly grab a snack before you get hangry, some tissues because the movie you picked happens to be a lot sadder than you thought it’d be, or a phone charger because Tetris drains battery life surprisingly quickly. You know, only the essentials.

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your Day Trip Essentials

Similar to the above perk, a sling bag may just be the perfect accessory for a day trip. Sometimes all you need are the basics—wallet, keys, phone—and while pockets may get the job done, 1) some clothes lack practical pockets, 2) skinny jeans are a thing, and 3) some clothes don’t have pockets at all. (*cough* Women’s clothing! *cough*)

Even if you are #blessed with useable pockets, some day trips require a few “extra” items, although not quite enough to make lugging around an entire backpack worthwhile. A sling bag allows you to bring:

• Extra camera lenses
• Extra camera batteries
• Snacks (still the most important)
• Nintendo Switch (a gamer’s gotta game)

Sling bags truly are the middle ground between a daypack and your pockets. If you’re usually a daypack kind of person, switching to a sling bag forces you to think about what you’re bringing. And your back will thank you for leaving that copy of War and Peace behind because, let’s be honest, you’re just going to look at memes on your smartphone anyway. Alternatively, if you’re usually a pocket kind of person, you can avoid overly-full pockets and think less about what you’re bringing, tossing all sorts of fun goodies into your sling bag just because you can.

Sling Bags Are Lightweight and Packable

Sling bags—specifically ones designed for travel—weigh almost nothing and can easily lay flat in your travel backpack . You can pack it and forget about it until you require your sling’s services (see the above perk).

Sling Bags Provide Easy Access

Sling bags are ridiculously easy to get in and out of. When worn on your chest, the pocket(s) is (are) literally right under your nose, and when worn on your back, you can shift it around to your front. However, beware of the T-Rex arms that can happen when the sling bag is worn high on your chest (yeah, you knew exactly what we were talking about as soon as we said “T-Rex arms,” didn’t you?).

Sling Bags Are En Vogue

At least for the time being, sling bags are “in.” You’ll find them in pretty much every high street store, and even luxury brands like Louis Vuitton are selling them. We don’t know about you, but we love it when fashion and convenience merge.

Other Use-Cases for Sling Bags Include:

• Festivals (both for convenience and trendiness)
• Everyday carry (especially for those who cycle to work)
• Hiking and outdoor adventuring
• Exploring cities
• Amusement parks
• A million other things

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One of our favorite slings may just become your favorite sling.

We dig the Aer Day Sling 3 so much that it was one of our first-ever Pack Hacker Picks—an exclusive list of our favorite travel products. You might be thinking, that’s great, but why do you like it? Well, let’s talk about it.

We’ve used this sling all over the globe, from the United States to Thailand and South Korea. The front pocket is a solid place to stow quick-use items like sunglasses and hand sanitizer, and the main compartment works well for the bulk of our gear like a wallet and battery bank. This is a great sling if you’re into organization but still like having the freedom to store large items, as there’s plenty of room leftover for bulky gear like a hat and gloves. In addition to intuitive storage, this pack stands on its own thanks to a flat base and has an easy-to-use magnetic FIDLOCK buckle on the strap.

The primary material is 1680D CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon, which is highly durable, water-resistant, and gives the sling a sleek look that looks good in pretty much any setting. There’s an X-Pac version, too, which is ideal if you’re looking for something more lightweight, though it sounds a bit crunchy in our experience. The zippers are from YKK, and the other hardware is from Duraflex, which are two of the best brands in the business.

Why We Like It

• The flat base enables it to stand up, so it’s easy to load up before leaving home
• The materials and hardware are incredibly durable

What You Should Know

• There’s no organization in the front pocket, so you may need to fish around for what you need
• We’ve had experience with the FIDLOCK buckle coming disengaged while we’re wearing the sling, though it’s not often enough to cause major concerns

If you’re looking for a smaller sling that you can take anywhere, the Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L might be the best sling bag for your next trip. It has Bellroy’s signature look: durable materials, capable hardware, and a thin strap that you’ll either love or wish had more padding. We think it’s enough because the sling’s size is pretty proportional to the strap, but it’s worth considering if you prefer extra cushion.

The primary material here is Bellroy’s Canva Ripstop, which feels a little rough in the hand but offers high durability and excellent water resistance. That’s paired with YKK AquaGuard zippers, which ensure no water sneaks through the openings in the pack. To top it all off, the self-compression design helps create a natural sleek look no matter how packed out the sling is, which we dig.

Inside, we’ve got two compartments to work with. The secondary pocket has a divider in the center, making it easy to segment small gear rather than it getting jumbled together. As for the main compartment, it’s a simple design with just enough organization to keep your items in check, including a structured slip pocket for your phone and a raised zippered pocket to keep your sunglasses from getting crushed. The 2.5L capacity is the perfect amount to stow all the gear you’d typically keep in your pockets (plus a little extra) to ensure your day is comfortable, whether walking to get Gelato or hiking up a mountain.

Bellroy has multiple Venture slings in multiple sizes, though they have a slightly different design to this one from the Venture Ready line, which is designed to handle more rugged adventures. That said, we like those other slings, too, so you’ve got plenty of size options if this 2.5L sling is a bit too small.

• The self-compression strap ensures a comfortable fit, no matter how packed out the sling is
• There’s a divider in the front pocket which helps organize small gear
• We’ve experienced the magnetic buckle coming disengaged when pushed at a specific angle
• Though they’re not uncomfortable, the materials are a bit more rugged than we often see in slings

If you’re into versatility, now’s your time to shine. This sling bag is more of a 4-in-1 all-purpose pouch that can be carried as a sling, as a waist pack, with a handle loop, or attached to a key ring (which can then be hooked to a bag or your belt). Or, remove the strap entirely and use it as a 3D organizer in your luggage, as it’s just the right size for toiletries, tech, jewelry, and the like.

That said, this is a guide to help you find the best sling bag for your next trip, so we’ll focus on that. The front pocket is simple and works well for stowing a passport or other quick-use items. Meanwhile, the main compartment has two liner pockets, which are perfect for your wallet, phone, or headphones. Plus, in trademark TOM BIHN fashion, there are four O-rings throughout the bag. These are handy for attaching additional pouches to hold smaller gear you don’t want to lose in the depths of the main compartment, like ChapStick or dongles.

In typical TOM BIHN fashion, there are tons of material and colorway choices available. They’re constantly adding and switching out specifics, so we won’t dive into them. Since TOM BIHN is a leader in durable, well-engineered gear, you really can’t go wrong with any of the options. Simply put, they make gear to last through the materials they utilize, the designs they employ, and the hardware that brings it all together.

TOM BIHN’s style may feel as if it’s stuck in the 1990s, but we’re all in for a hint of nostalgia and their gear’s durability, combining to make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The materials, hardware, and design are durable and timeless, so you’ll have this sling for years without it going out of style
• You can customize the interior using O-rings to attach extra pouches
• The design can feel more like a handbag than a sling
• The strap gets twisted fairly easily

As the name describes, the second iteration of the Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L is meant to be used as a daily driver, whether you’re commuting to work or crossing the globe. Before we dive too far into this particular model, it’s worth noting that there are 6L and 10L versions of this bag, too, so you can size up if you feel that three liters is too limiting.

The exterior is crafted from 100% recycled 400D double poly-coated and DWR-impregnated nylon canvas, which is a fancy way of saying that it’s highly durable and water-resistant. The zippers were created in a partnership between Peak Design and Zoom, meaning they were designed to be used exclusively on Peak Design packs, so it’s no surprise that they work so well.

There’s an exterior pocket with no organization, which is a stellar spot to stow camera accessories if you’re using this as a photography bag or pocketable items like a phone or wallet. The main compartment was designed to be versatile, offering storage for a mirrorless camera and two small lenses (or one larger one), but you can utilize it for your everyday carry gear, too. There’s a quick-grab pocket that has organization for smaller gear, like chargers or adapters.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking for a bag to take on your next trip or looking for something to commute across the city with to get to work, this is one of the best sling bag models on the market regarding durability, weather resistance, and versatility.

• The exterior is designed to protect your gear from the elements—an essential feature of a camera-focused bag
• It can be used to stow camera gear or everyday carry equipment
• We’ve noticed that the back panel won’t sit flat against your body when the bag is completely full, which impacts carry comfort
• Oblong-shaped items stored in the front compartment can make it look bulky

The Mission Workshop Spar Sling is one of the larger packs on this list, coming in at eight liters. In fact, it’s so large that it can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, too. Are you interested yet? We thought you might be.

The exterior is crafted from Dimension Polyant VX-07 Diamond Ripstop or 500D Multicam® CORDURA®, depending on your chosen colorway. Both are durable, highly water resistant, and give the pack a sleek look. It’s heavier than other slings of this size that we’ve tested, but the strap does a great job balancing the weight.

There’s only a little organization present here; however, for a sling of this style, we prefer it like that. Eight liters is a lot for a sling, but considering it can carry your laptop, there’s probably a lot of gear you want to bring alongside your computer. If there was a ton of segmentation, your gear might be more organized, but you wouldn’t be able to fit as much inside because you’d be confined to the size of the included pockets. With this sling, you can fit your computer, charger, and other everyday carry and tech items inside for trips to the coffee shop, office, or back home after a long day of exploring—maybe just store small gear in a couple of pouches to keep it from getting jumbled together.

Plus, you can wear the Mission Workshop Spar Sling in sling, crossbody, or messenger modes, so you can switch things up if one way becomes uncomfortable. Considering its size and versatility, this might be the best sling bag for your next trip. Or, one bag it, and see what you can’t live without!

• You can fit up to a 15″ laptop inside
• There are three carry methods to meet your specific travel needs
• It’s heavy compared to slings of a similar size we’ve tested
• There isn’t a ton of organization, so you’ll need to DIY it with pouches and cubes

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a lightweight mini sling. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack has just a liter of capacity; however, its 3.5-ounce weight makes it a versatile travel companion. It’s crafted from ripstop nylon, which is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

The front pocket is just big enough to stow a pair of headphones, a small charging cable, or a pack of gum. You’ll find more organization in the main compartment for large gear, and there’s a zippered pocket items you want to keep separate. There isn’t much segmentation here, which we’re not mad about, because too much organization would take up valuable space in this tiny sling. Since it’s so small, you can pack it into your carry on luggage or travel backpack and take it out once you arrive at your destination to carry around the city.

To assist in that plight, the Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack packs into its own pocket, fitting into the palm of your hand once zipped up. This makes it easier to bring it on a trip if you don’t know whether you’ll need it or not. No matter where you’re going, who doesn’t need a little extra space?

• It packs into itself to save space in your travel bag, which is handy if you’re not a frequent sling user on trips
• The ripstop design adds durability to the lightweight material, so you don’t sacrifice weight for reliability
• The look is somewhat sporty, so it’s difficult to dress up with an outfit
• It can be challenging to fit gear into the small pocket

The Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket may look large upon initial inspection, but it comes in at a singular liter because of how thin it is. The primary external materials are 800D nylon and 660D polypropylene DYECOSHELL, which is a sustainably sourced, durable material that gives the sling a speckled look. It’s durable as heck, too, which we’re here for. After nine months of use, we’ve noticed some slight fraying on the edges of the fabric, but it isn’t compromising the sling—it’s more of an aesthetic issue.

There’s ample organization inside the main compartment considering this sling’s capacity, which makes stowing and finding your wallet, phone, or tiny tech (think headphones or charger) easy. For this reason, we love taking this sling onto a flight as a personal item. It won’t weigh you down or cause discomfort, but you can still stow and find all of the gear you need pretty quickly. Because it’s so tiny, the carry can sometimes feel lopsided if you have something heavy on one side of the sling. That said, as you get used to carrying this thing, you can remedy that issue by finding where your gear best rests to offset weight distribution.

• The organization is thoughtful and doesn’t get in the way, which is a rarity for such a tiny sling
• The materials and hardware are durable despite some cosmetic damage over the course of our testing
• Heavier items can create an unbalanced carry experience
• The edges of the fabric will start to fray over time

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a cross between a messenger bag and a sling bag, which means that it has features from both that make it a candidate for the best sling bag. At nine liters, there’s a ton of space to work with. However, that also means it has a pretty big footprint, which may be challenging for those with small frames to get used to. It’s 17 inches on the long edge, which is as tall as some capable daypacks we’ve tested.

The exterior is clad with 1050D nylon and YKK zippers, which have held up well in our testing. The buckle is Chrome Industries’ trademark seat belt style, which offers a unique heritage style along with a durable, reliable closure.

The secondary compartment has no organization but is fairly large, so you can stow daily items you might want quick access to here. Think sunglasses, a phone, a wallet, or a transit card. You won’t find much more organization inside the main compartment. There’s a divider pocket for a tablet or book and a few smaller iterations that work well for everyday carry gear like a bike tool or flashlight. The rest of the space is yours to work with, meaning there’s enough room for a packable rain jacket, tech pouch, or other large gear.

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a solid bet if you’re okay with heavier materials and minimal organization. Seriously, this thing is durable, and you can fit a ton of gear inside. This might be the best sling bag for rugged adventures or those with a tough commute.

• The materials are durable, and the hardware is unique (especially if you like seat belt buckles!)
• The main compartment has a ton of space for stowing large items that won’t fit in most sling bags
• It’s very long, so it may feel too large on smaller-framed travelers
• The lack of organization can be overwhelming for those who are used to every piece of gear having a home

If you were around in the early 2000s, you might remember a fad where kids were wearing sling-style backpacks to school. Many popular brands made them, and you were only cool if you had one. If you couldn’t get one back then, there’s still time! Enter the Patagonia Atom Sling.

This thing offers a hint of nostalgia paired with Patagonia’s commitment to making durable gear with a purpose. The high-tenacity nylon is partially recycled and perfect for more rugged trips. On the other side, the shoulder strap and back panel are amply padded and aerated to promote comfort, whether crossing the city or taking a strenuous day hike. For gear that won’t fit inside, there’s a compression system on the pack’s front where you can attach items like a rain jacket or small tripod.

The quick-grab pocket is perfect for snacks, your phone, or your wallet. Inside the main compartment is a tablet sleeve and ample open space to stow whatever else you need for the day, from a tech pouch to a bag of chips.

The shoulder strap can only be worn on your right shoulder, which you might remember if you had one of these in middle school. Similar to the weight of textbooks, travel gear can get heavy, which can cause discomfort during long days of wandering around a new place. You can always wear it on your front side to relieve any stress your right shoulder might be experiencing, but we think that looks goofy. To each their own, though.

• There’s ample padding on the back panel and shoulder strap to increase carry comfort
• The simple organization because it’s still effective in keeping your gear organized
• You can only wear it over your right shoulder, so lefties may want to look elsewhere
• It has a sporty look that’s hard to make look, well, not sporty

The Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag is a unique sling bag for several reasons. First, it’s named after a fruit. We feel healthier just thinking about it! Next, it’s crafted from waxed canvas, which isn’t something we see super often. Last, it’s handcrafted in Scotland, which is the conversation starter you never knew you needed!

The waxed canvas looks sleek and is super durable, though it tends to stay wet once it gets wet, so it isn’t the best choice for climates that see a lot of rain. You can wear it as a crossbody bag or a hip pack, which is ideal for travel because it’s more versatile. The strap doesn’t offer padding or aeration, which is something to consider if you prefer a plush carry experience.

There’s just a small zippered pocket on the back and one large compartment, and you’re pretty much left to your devices when it comes to organization. The space isn’t the easiest to utilize, as the tapered design creates harsh corners where it’s hard to fit gear. That said, once you get the hang of using the shape, the carry is comfortable enough to outweigh not having dedicated internal organization, we think. The look, materials, and unique features make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The waxed canvas exterior gives it a unique heritage look
• It’s made very well—you’re paying for longevity with this sling
• Its banana shape takes some getting used to when it comes to figuring out where to store your gear
• The materials take a while to dry after getting soaking wet, so avoid carrying this thing in heavy rain

Here at Pack Hacker, we find that a middle-sized sling is typically best for travel because it’s small enough to be packed into another bag and large enough to carry more than what you’d typically keep in your pockets. Inside this happy middle ground at 3.5 liters is the EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack, or MHP3.5. It’s a comfortable size to hold all your everyday carry gear without feeling bulky on your body.

If you’ve been looking for a comfortable sling, you’re going to want to listen up. The back panel is amply padded for carry comfort whether it’s in sling or waist pack mode, there’s plenty of material to create a strong attachment between the pack and the carry strap, and it’s easy to adjust on the fly to find the right fit.

There’s a pass-through channel on the pack’s front that works well for a water bottle, jacket, or other medium-sized item. The secondary (rear) pocket has a vertical-style organizer with multiple pockets to ensure all your gear has a home. Moving into the main compartment, there’s ample space for a packable jacket, small water bottle, tech pouch, or other medium-to-large-sized items. For a sling bag that only touts 3.5 liters, you can fit a ton of gear inside, making it a versatile travel companion, no matter where your journey takes you!

• The beefy harness system creates a comfortable carry in crossbody and hip pack modes
• There’s a ton of room for storing large and small gear without throwing them all into the main compartment
• It’s looks pretty big on your body considering for its liter size compared to other slings we’ve tested
• Though it’s designed to be a hip pack, it works great as a sling

Don’t let a broken sling bag break your heart. Choose one that will keep up.

Finding a Dependable Sling Bag for Travel and EDC

We’re partial to small slings since they are, point blank, the best for travel. Small slings are more comfortable to carry, easier to pack inside a larger travel backpack, and will be considered a personal item on most airlines (in the States, anyway). At some size, a sling bag just becomes an uncomfortable backpack.

While a sling’s size is measured in liters, the liter size of a sling bag can vary from company to company. One brand’s 5 liters is another brand’s 2 liters (exasperating, right? Get it together, people!). So it’s equally important to consider the shape of the sling bag, the internal organization, and the thickness of the material—all of which will impact the amount of usable space available. Let’s break that down.

Volume & Size

We know we just said judging a sling bag by liters isn’t the most accurate way to determine volume, but it still works well as a benchmark. We recommend staying between one and eight liters and keeping the weight less than four, maybe five, pounds—this weight includes your stuff, of course. Since a sling bag wears over one shoulder, a big, heavy sling may, at best, get too uncomfortable to carry, and at worst, hurt your back. Plus, it’ll look awfully strange sitting across the chest.

Some sling bags are expandable, which is excellent for travel since they’ll take up little space when not in use or when you don’t have much to carry—but you can still fill them with a decent amount of stuff when expanded. This trick works well on small sling bags but can be overkill on bigger ones, which expand to be comically bulky.

With an expandable main compartment, the CODEOFBELL X-Pod works equally well on days when you only need the essentials and on trips where you want everything but the kitchen sink. Plus, it never looks too bulky and manages to stay comfortable even when fully packed—an impressive feat we don’t often see.

The profile of a sling bag has a significant impact on its overall look and comfort level. Most sling bags have an oblong shape to better fit the chest and back. As we mentioned earlier, sometimes hip packs try to be sling bags—some are even successful at it—but they won’t be nearly as contoured to the chest and can hang in such a way as to look unbalanced.

With sling bags, you’ll usually find one of two orientations: tall or wide. They’re both equally great options that work better or worse for different use-cases and style preferences.

Tall sling bags are just that—tall—and wear more like a purse or mini-backpack. As you would expect, they work well for things that you want to pack vertically, say a phone case with bunny ears. Tall sling bags aren’t usually tight against the body, nor can they only be worn on your back.

This sling bag can be carried crossbody or as a hip pack with the same strap. Whichever you choose, the horseshoe zipper makes it easy to get to your gear, and the vertical orientation allows you to get a decent look inside the bag and squeeze in your hand without too much trouble.

If you want to look like you don’t know how to wear a fanny pack correctly, then a wide sling may be your style of choice. That’s to say, they are more closely related to the fanny pack in the looks department, for better or worse, and usually sit tightly against the body.

Chrome Industries prides itself on its unique, recognizable designs. And this sling bag is definitely unique. Its oblong shape is reminiscent of the typical fanny pack, but its larger size, seat belt buckle, and stiff shape are all its own. It can overwhelm smaller frames—particularly when full—but it’ll hold all of the essentials and then some.

Weather Resistance

You’ll likely carry important gear in your sling bag such as your cell phone, money, and passport. Unless you’ve got special powers that allow you to avoid rain and snow indefinitely, a bit of weather resistance is a major plus, as it will protect those essential items from damage. Plus, a weather-resistant sling can be wiped down quickly, meaning you won’t have to wear a sopping wet bag against your chest—not a fun experience.

On the other hand, too much weatherproofing is overkill. Full-blown waterproof or super weather-resistant materials are built for just that—resisting water. Generally speaking, they’re not going to hold up to everyday use as well as other fabrics (more on that below), and they may not look as nice or feel as comfortable on your back/chest.

If push comes to shove and you need to protect your sling from a sudden rainstorm, they’re usually small enough to fit under a rain jacket. Just beware—people may think you are either smuggling a small animal under your coat or have a bizarrely shaped chest. (This could be a pro or con depending on your personality.)

A sling bag designed to carry your essential tech—small laptops included—better have some weather resistance. The ALPAKA Bravo Sling Max V2 doesn’t disappoint, with high-quality, durable fabric and weather-resistant zippers.

Sling Bag Durability & Quality

With the popularity of sling bags on an exponential rise, you’ll find sling bags ranging from ten bucks to thousands. While we don’t recommend going out and buying a sling bag that costs as much as a car (unless you have money to burn), we do recommend purchasing a sling made of durable, high-quality materials—and that may cost you more than ten bucks.

That said, the same fabric that’s ideal for a travel backpack can be a bit much on a sling bag. You have to balance durability with weight and interior capacity. When you’re looking at quality, be sure to pay attention to:

A broken zipper may lead to a broken heart while traveling. That may sound dramatic, but if you’ve ever had a zipper break on you while abroad, you’ll know exactly what we mean. We usually trust zippers from YKK, RiRi, and SAB—all of which have solid track records for making quality products, our favorite being the Japanese manufacturer, YKK. YKK zippers have rarely let us down, even when we’ve put them through the wringer over years and years of testing. They account for about half of all the zippers in the world for a reason.

Beyond the brand, it’s important to consider size, which is measured on a scale of one (small) to ten (large). While the main zippers on sling bags fall all over this spectrum, the most common sizes are #5 or #8—seriously, out of the 50 + slings we’ve tested, a very, very high majority have either #5 or #8 zippers. Anything less than a five and you’ll likely run into durability issues.

With sling bags, you also don’t need—or want—anything too beefy, like a #10 zipper. If they’re too big, the zips can jingle, which gets annoying for us around the five-minute mark. Maybe you’re more patient than we are. Larger zippers can also rub against your chest or back, which is just as uncomfortable as it sounds.

Some companies purposefully design their sling bags with oversized zippers or zipper teeth to look extra dope. If you’re into this aesthetic, you may have to get used to the jingling. Fashion is pain and all that.

For the zippers on internal or less-frequented pockets, you’ll be okay with a smaller size. They can also help with the aforementioned weather resistance. When looking at zippers, you may see the letters RC stamped next to the size (#5RC, #8RC, etc.). RC stands for reverse coil, a term that describes zippers with internally—rather than externally—facing teeth, which helps prevent water from percolating into the bag. But a reverse coil zipper isn’t that water-resistant. So don’t go thinking it’ll protect your phone in a monsoon.

For further protection, there are water-repellent zippers—like the YKK AquaGuard zipper—which have a thin polyurethane coating to, you know, repel water. If you’re planning on going to an unusually wet area with your sling bag, then you may want to look for this style of zipper. Otherwise, you’ll likely be fine without that extra water resistance.

Buckles are a major component of most sling bags, and if there’s no buckle, there will be some sort of clip. You don’t want the hardware to break on you because that’ll make the sling practically useless. Unless you MacGyver up a big knot, which will help with the usefulness but, let’s be real, look totally ridiculous.

Again, the brand matters here. Some trustworthy companies are Duraflex, YKK, Woojin, and ITW. As long as you stick with them, you should be good to go. We also love metal buckles—as opposed to plastic—but when it comes to slings, they can be uncomfortable and add a good bit of weight. If durability is a priority however, metal buckles can’t be beaten.

Fabric & Material

Unlike in the 1800s—or even the mid-1900s—bag designers (engineers?) have a ton of fabrics to choose from to make their bags, all of which have pros and cons. As we’ve already mentioned, you want to balance durability with weight and capacity. A sling bag won’t have to do as much work as a travel backpack; therefore, it doesn’t have to be as tough. Some materials you may run into are:

Ballistic Nylon

Ripstop Nylon

CORDURA® Grade Fabrics (Nylon & Polyester)

While this isn’t a comprehensive list of all of the fabrics you’ll run into while shopping (sorry sailcloth and polypropylene) a majority of sling bags will be made with one or multiple of the materials mentioned above. But the material itself isn’t the be-all, end-all.

Usually, you’ll see a number followed by a D associated with the material—250D, 950D, 1000D, etc. The D stands for denier, which is the unit that measures the weight or thickness of fabric. In general, the higher the number, the more durable the fabric—but higher numbers also mean higher weight.

Because every fabric has its individual strengths (nylon is inherently stronger than polyester) the denier won’t help you much when comparing two different types of fabrics, or even two types of weaves within one fabric family. Instead, it helps you compare two fabrics of the same type. 500D Ballistic nylon is less durable than 1000D Ballistic nylon, for example. But the 500D Ballistic nylon will also be much lighter (about half as light, in fact!).

When it comes to sling bags, higher denier is generally better, but you start maxing out around 500D. As far as we’re concerned, any fabric over 500D is a bit overkill for a sling bag. As you get up into the 500D range, the weight of the fabric will start to become more substantial, but because sling bags are small—and thus don’t have a lot of fabric—you’ll hardly be able to notice this difference in weight. And because sling bags don’t take as much abuse as, say, a full-blown travel backpack, we don’t think the extra durability of 500D+ fabrics is necessary.

Moreover, the other aspects of a sling bag, including its zippers and hardware, also have to be high-quality. It does you no good if your ballistic nylon exterior has held up if your zippers break on week three. Best to keep everything well-rounded.

Bordering on too durable, the Aer City Sling 2 is made of some tough stuff—1680D CORDURA® Ballistic nylon, to be precise. If you’re looking for a sling bag that will keep up while you roam the world, this one should be on your radar.

Where Fashion Meets Convenience.

Choosing the Best Sling Bag for Your Use-Case

Besides keeping you trendy, sling bags are awesome because they’re convenient. That convenience becomes obsolete if it’s uncomfortable, hard to access, or doesn’t properly fit your use-case. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re considering investing in your soon-to-be favorite new accessory.

Sling bag straps are generally made of nylon webbing, but all vary in length and width. Smaller sling bags tend to have thin straps, while heavier backpack-style slings tend to have thick straps. Pretty straightforward so far. But length and width aren’t the only elements you need to pay attention to.

First of all, let’s talk about padding. Some sling bags have zero padding, while others are nearly as padded as the resume of a recent college grad. Padded straps are usually—but not always—found on bigger sling bags to help make carrying that much weight more comfortable.

As a general rule, we’re not too keen on thick, padded straps. They tend to give you awkward sweaty patches and can only help so much with comfort. As we already mentioned, once you reach a certain size of sling bag they become uncomfortable to carry regardless of how fancy the strap. Not to mention, bigger straps weigh more.

We’re fans of thinner straps or ones that are somewhere in the middle of the padding spectrum. We’re especially happy when straps are designed in such a way that they’re thicker or more padded only on those places where it’ll touch your body. That way, the sling isn’t bogged down by over-specced straps as far as design and weight are concerned.

The Osprey Daylite Sling knows that it’s a sling bag—meaning the strap has enough padding to make the carry comfortable, but nothing overboard. The padding is soft and kind to clothing, though it can get sweaty on long excursions. There’s also a small mesh pocket on the strap for items you want to access quickly and a nylon loop for attaching water bottles.

Additionally, some sling bags have detachable straps, allowing you to transform the bag into an organizer pouch for toiletries, electronics, your sticker collection, or whatever else you need to organize. We’re always fans of traveling with items that serve more than one purpose to save space and weight. A pouch/sling bag combo is one great way to do that, and detachable straps are virtually identical to non-detachable straps—so there aren’t really any downsides. These are particularly great for one bag travel, as you can use the pouch as a packing cube/organizer in your larger backpack and then take it out and throw a strap on for your flight or a day out.

Because the straps of this sling easily detach, it doubles as a pouch. Throw in some toiletries or tech and leave it in your travel backpack. Then, when you arrive and it’s time to explore a new city, reattach the straps and use it for all your everyday carry essentials. It’s a win-win-win.

Types of Sling Straps

The straps on sling bags have a major influence on the style of the bag. It would be like if the only difference between a backpack and a duffel is the strap. So, let’s check out the various strap styles you’re likely to run into.

The Traditional Strap

The Traditional Strap Example

You’ll likely see traditional sling bag straps when you hit the trails. Major outdoor brands like Patagonia and Osprey sell these kinds of slings, which have a single, thick strap that looks like one you’d find on a backpack, but sits on one shoulder and lies asymmetrically across the chest.

A sling bag with a traditional style of strap is designed to be worn across your back and can’t be worn on your chest or hips. Unfortunately, most of these straps are designed to be worn across the same shoulder every time. That means the carry can become uncomfortable on long excursions, dumping all the weight of the bag onto one side. But they’re nice for quick jaunts since the strap stays in place—even as you bounce along a trail.

The Kavu Rope Sling has an outdoorsy look and a handful of organization for ultimate comfort on the trails. Keep bigger gear close at hand, though it does take a little practice to get the packing strategy right.

The New Wave Strap

The New Wave Strap Example

New wave sling bag straps are usually simple, thin, and attach to the body of the sling bag at the edges width-wise (new wave straps go hand-in-hand with wide sling bags). And they’re designed to be worn both on the chest or back. We’ve coined them “new wave” because these straps are the ones that catapulted sling bags into being a mainstream fashion accessory. They’re truly the “new wave” of sling bags (aren’t we clever?).

The way the straps are anchored to the bag and the way the buckles buckle make it so most new wave straps can’t be worn comfortably on the hips. Sure, with some combination of magic, innovation, and true grit, you could probably force a few of them to sit on your hips, but that’s not what they’ve been engineered to do.

The Tortuga Travel Sling looks like it’s more versatile than it is. While it looks like you could sling it around your hips, the straps are anchored in such a way that it can only be worn successfully on the chest or back. Even without the ability to wear the sling as a hip pack, it’s one of the best slings for travel due to its small size, internal organization, and low weight.

The Hip Pack-Style Strap

The Hip Pack-Style Strap Example

Listen up—because this part is kind of tricky. At first glance, the hip pack-style strap will look eerily similar to the new wave style of strap. The main difference is that the hip pack style of strap can be worn slung around the hips (as well as across the chest). They’re the most versatile in terms of function, but they also scream “fanny pack.” So much so, your dad may ask you why you busted out his old fanny pack and are now wearing it incorrectly. (Obviously, he just doesn’t understand fashion.)

Small and lightweight, lululemon advertises the Everywhere Belt Bag as a fanny pack, but we think it makes a comfortable sling bag too. Mainly because the strap is wider than it needs to be and the buckle is off-center to make it easier to reach. Whichever way you wear it, the bag also has some mesh pockets and a rear security pocket, making it ideal for festivals and travel alike.

The Crossbody Strap

The Crossbody Strap Example

This style of strap is a long piece of webbing that can sit crossbody or be thrown over one shoulder. It’s similar to a purse strap, although usually thinner and without any decorative elements.

The Fjallraven Greenland Pocket has a thin crossbody strap that’s super simple to tighten or loosen—so you can wear it close to your chest or let it hang, depending on where you’re traveling and your mood. But the strap is rough and may damage more delicate items of clothing.

The Lefty Strap

The Lefty Strap Example

Lefties make up only 10% of the population and thus can be ignored by companies who’d rather reach the majority of consumers (sorry, lefties. The truth hurts).

Sometimes, we’ve found that it’s easier to adapt to the right-handed world and use sling bags designed for right-handers. That said, there are a few sling bags that may work better for those of you who are aware that left-handed scissors exist.

These lefty-inclusive sling bags have straps that can be anchored on either side of the bag, allowing you to wear it across whichever shoulder you’d like. That way, if you’re left-handed, you can wear it on your left shoulder, so when you “sling” the bag forward, your left hand is ready to work the zippers.

But, these straps don’t always mean a sling is ideal for lefties. Pocket orientation matters, too. It won’t do you any good to wear the sling on your left shoulder if all the pockets will be facing the ground. There are some sling bags out there with either symmetrical pockets or pockets for lefties.

Thoughts on Buckles

We’ve talked about buckles before, but they’re worth mentioning a second time. They contribute to the look, feel, function, and style of a sling bag nearly as much as the straps do.

The first question worth asking is, “Where is the buckle located?”

If the buckle is centered, that means the sling bag can almost always be worn on either shoulder or around the hips. But a centered buckle isn’t ideal if you’re planning on wearing your sling bag with a backpack. The backpack’s weight can cause the sling’s buckle to dig into your back (ouch), and you won’t be able to easily detach it without first taking off your backpack.

If the buckle is off-center (usually on the right side), the sling bag works best on one shoulder. Meaning you won’t be able to switch between the two if one ever gets tired. In some cases, you can technically wear it on whatever shoulder you want, but it will likely sit uncomfortably on one side, or the buckle will end up in an awkward place that’s hard to access with your dominant hand (sorry lefties, this one will impact you more often).

You should also pay attention to the size of the buckle. The larger it gets, the more uncomfortable it’ll wear. But that’s not always a dealbreaker. Larger buckles can look pretty damn fly, they’ll last longer, and they’re usually easier to clip/unclip for people who can’t be bothered with slow buckles.

Finally, you’ll want to ask yourself if you plan to wear your sling bag as a hip pack every once and a while. Some buckles don’t allow for this dual functionality.

The stainless steel buckles on the Trakke Largo Sling could be considered slightly over-specced for a bag this small, but we’re not complaining. These buckles are ultra-durable, they allow you to wear the sling bag comfortably as a hip pack, and they let you wear it over either shoulder (lefties, that one’s for you!). Plus, it’s a fresh look that helps give this sling its heritage vibe.

Thoughts on Back Panels

Whether or not you should care about the back panel on a sling bag depends on how it fits your body. Boxier sling bags wear more like a purse or messenger bag, so you won’t want or need anything fancy. You can run into trouble, however, with sling bags that hug the body. These can leave awkward sweat patches and rub against your clothing, causing pilling.

To help alleviate those issues, some sling bags come equipped with mesh back panels, most commonly found on outdoor-oriented or backpack-style sling bags.

Some sling bags don’t have that fancy mesh but do have a bit of cushioning or padding for added comfort. Usually, the padding makes for a more comfortable carry but can exacerbate the sweat problem.

And some sling bags, especially the smaller ones, have neither mesh nor padding. We’re alright with that—as long as the bag is truly on the smaller end.

Typical for Hydro Flask, the Slingback Bottle Pack has been designed to shine in the great outdoors. You’ll find soft, padded, and breathable mesh on both the back panel and shoulder strap. If you’re anything like us, you’ll still get sweaty on your way to the peak, but it has better airflow than many slings out there (especially for its size).

Thoughts on Organization

In our years of testing gear, we’ve come to realize that organization is one of those things that’s very personal. Some people like bags with large, empty compartments while others are offended when there’s not a spot for each one of their fancy pens.

You can find sling bags all along that spectrum. Some are basically exterior pockets with zero organization, while others have pockets on pockets on pockets. Again, what’s best for you depends on your use-case and what you’re going to be carrying.

Lots of smaller items? You’ll probably want those organized. A few bigger things? Too much organization could annoy you. For most people, you’ll want something in the middle. We love a main compartment with two to three interior pockets and an additional front or back pocket. But, again, think through your situation.

One great feature to look for is a hidden pocket, which will usually sit on the side of the sling bag that’s against your body. This pocket is the ideal place to stash essential items like your passport, credit cards, or cash.

This Minaal sling has several pockets of varying sizes, so you’ll find a spot for everything—a passport, travel sunglasses, a battery bank, wallet, snacks, you name it. There’s even a security pocket for hiding cash and cards!

Specialist Sling Bags

Most sling bags fall into the travel/outdoors/EDC realm, but some have dared to be different. These specialist sling bags to work for very specific use cases (hence the whole “specialist” thing). We’ll briefly run through these sling bags here, so you’re not caught off-guard if you ever encounter one in the wild.

Secure Sling Bags

Chances are you’re going to be carrying some pretty important stuff in your sling bag—and this time, we’re not talking about snacks. We mean things like your passport, keys, and cash. While we do think some common sense can go a long way towards keeping your valuables safe on the road, we get that security features can help with overall peace of mind. Secure sling bags will likely have a number of features to prevent thieves from gaining quick access, including lockable zippers, hidden or lockable buckles, slash-proof straps, tear-proof fabrics, and RFID-blocking technology.

The trade-off here is that most secure sling bags look like secure sling bags. They also weigh more than their less safe counterparts, and they won’t be quite as accessible. Still, peace of mind is peace of mind.

The Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack is a tough sling that’s slash-proof, RFID-blocking, and lockable. The strap feels a bit bulky, but it’ll give you peace of mind that your stuff will be safe on the road.

Camera Sling Bags

When you want to snap pictures of your epic adventures but don’t plan on lugging around a full camera kit with different lenses and battery packs, a camera sling bag could be your new best friend. These allow you to carry a good amount of camera accessories without having to be worn down by an entire backpack. If you’re partial to point and shoot cameras, you can probably stick with any old sling bag, though camera-focused gear never hurts.

Camera sling bags usually have soft internal padding, durable and weather-resistant external materials, some adjustable inserts/dividers, and lots of organization. Some even have multiple access points. Plus, they’re still sling bags, so getting to your gear is quick and easy. Sling the sling to your chest, zip it open, grab your camera, and you’re good to go.

Camera sling bags vary wildly in size with some being as large as a backpack. At that point, we’d recommend just wearing a backpack for better weight distribution. Seriously, a heavy camera sling bag gets uncomfortable and bulky fast.

The Peak Design Everyday Sling is a versatile, durable bag that will keep your camera and accessories safe and organized while you roam the world. Its FlexFold dividers allow you to customize the interior to suit your needs. We think it’s just the right size, allowing you to carry a good amount of gear without weighing you down.

Don’t judge a sling bag by its cover. Wait, no, do. Definitely judge a sling bag by its cover.

Navigating the Complex World of Sling Bag Styles

If you decide to wear a sling bag, even if it’s only for convenience, you’re making a fashion statement. What kind of fashion statement is up to you. If you’re going to a festival, you might want something flashy and trendy. If you’re using it for day trips abroad, you probably want something that doesn’t scream tourist. If you’re Paris Hilton, you probably want to opt for something fabulous and expensive. No matter who you are, we’ve found five common styles to look out for.

The Fanny Pack Look-Alike

By now, you hopefully understand that a sling bag is not the same thing as a hip pack. But they do share some of the same DNA. Sometimes, you’ll find a sling bag that looks identical to a hip pack with an oblong shape, simple strap, and centered buckle.

In some cases, this is purely a fashion statement, but we love this style of sling bag for travel since it tends to be the perfect size for essentials and won’t take up too much space in your pack when not in use. Plus, it can be worn with a backpack. Win, win, win.

• Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Bellroy Sling Mini
• ALPAKA Bravo Sling Mini

Outdoorsy & Athletic

The outdoorsy sling bag looks like it wants to be a backpack, but hasn’t eaten quite enough vegetables. It tends to be bigger than other sling bag styles and can only be worn on the back. Sporty and colorful, these sling bags have tourist written all over them. So unless you want to stand out, you probably won’t want to take one with you on your epic tour of the world’s cities. But with comfortable straps and back panels, they’re nice for short hikes and outdoor excursions.

• Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling
• Patagonia Atom Sling
• Cotopaxi Chasqui 13L Sling (Cada Dia)
• The North Face Field Bag
• KAVU Rope Sling

Crossbody (The Purse or Murse)

Crossbody sling bags are the reason some people say sling bags are purses for men who are embarrassed to say they own a purse. It has a similar aesthetic to a purse, but with a longer strap and smaller body. They tend to have a more vertical orientation as well. We think crossbody slings work well for travel, although since they don’t sit as close to the body as other sling bags, may not feel as secure in a bustling metropolis or busy market.

• Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag
• Fjallraven Greenland Pocket
• Tom Bihn Small Cafe Bag
• Bellroy Lite Sacoche

While there are some sling bags out there that are seriously tactical (think Apocalypse ready), others just look tactical. While the former is probably better suited for outdoorsy things, the latter can be great for travel. Usually made of high-quality stuff, these bags are ready for whatever you throw at them.

• NITECORE SLB05
• 5.11 RUSH MOAB 6 Sling Pack
• Red Rock Rover Sling Pack

While Louis Vuitton and Prada sling bags fall under the fashion category, you don’t have to break the bank here (unless you want to, of course). Fashion sling bags are designed to impress with sleek zippers, unique straps, or other sophisticated design elements. Sometimes, although not always, this trendiness comes at a price—and that price is lower durability. That’s fine if your use-case is pretty low-impact, but if you’re planning to use your sling bag time and again while traveling the world, you may want to opt for another style.

• Bellroy City Pouch
• The North Face Isabella Hip Pack

It’s time to spread your wings and…choose a sling bag you’ll love! It’s as easy as one, two, three.

Forget the Best Sling Bag For Travel. Find the Best Sling Bag for YOU!

We would’ve loved to end this guide with “all that said, the best sling bag for travel is…” because, let’s be real, that would save us all a lot of time and effort. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the best sling bag for travel. There is only the best sling bag for you . So, let’s review how you can choose a sling bag you’ll fall in love with. To make things extra easy, we’ve broken it up into three steps:

1. Decide Why You Want a Sling Bag

Planning on rocking your sling during Milan’s Fashion Week? Opt for a designer sling made with less durable materials. Planning on backpacking Southeast Asia for three years? You might want a sling that’ll last the entirety of the trip. Different sling bags are better or worse for different situations, so make sure to think through when you’ll be using your sling bag and for what. And make sure to consider every use-case—perhaps you’ll be visiting fashion week then backpacking through Thailand. Pick your sling bag accordingly.

2. Assess Quality & Function

Take a look at the elements of a sling bag and the quality of materials. Unless you get joy out of throwing things away, you’ll probably want a sling bag that’s going to last you a little while. Pay close attention to the sling bag’s fabric, zippers, buckles, and straps. An easy tip for assessing overall quality is to take a look at the company’s warranty. If a company is willing to stand behind its products and offer a meaty warranty, then you should be able to trust whatever they’re selling.

3. Choose Your Favorite Style

A sling bag is an accessory. A useful accessory, but an accessory nonetheless. So make sure you love how it looks. In the end, if you’re repulsed by how hideous your new sling bag is, it doesn’t matter that it’ll last you until 2075.

Alright! You’ve made it to the end, folks. You may have thought that a sling bag was only a fun twist on a resurgent trend from the ‘90s, but now you know it’s so much more. We deem thee an official sling bag expert.

Good luck with all your slinging adventures—and make sure to share any other sling bag tips you’ve learned with us and the rest of the Pack Hacker community.

P.S. If you want more, check out all of our gear reviews . We’re always testing and reviewing new sling bags, plus a bunch of other super dope stuff.

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

Protect your Belongings: 11 Anti-theft bags for travel (2024 UPDATED)

Last Updated on April 10, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa

This post may contain affiliate links. Never leave home without travel insurance. Click for the insurance finder tool. and  insurance for COVID/quarantine protection .

As travelers, we are all potential victims of street crime, theft and pickpockets.

Thus, safety is a priority when traveling alone as a woman, and choosing a good anti-theft bag should be a consideration when visiting a new country for the first time or entering a country you know has pickpockets. Here’s anti-theft bags for travel in 2022.

I’ve been fortunate that with as much expensive gear and gadgets that I carry, I have always averted travel theft. But I’ve witnessed it and seen it happen many times to travelers, both naive and well-heeled ones.

Check out a list of my pickpocket-proof items .

Table of Contents: Protect your Belongings: 11 Anti-theft bags for travel (2024 UPDATED)

• 1 Are anti-theft bags worth it?
• 2 What features make a bag theft-proof?
• 3.1 Hidden and multiple pockets
• 3.2 Best anti-theft hidden/multiple pocket bags:
• 3.3.1 Best anti-theft cross-body bags for minimalist travel
• 3.4.1 Best anti-theft slash-proof bags for stylish travel:
• 3.5.1 Best anti-theft RFID protection bags:
• 3.6.1 Best anti-theft locking backpacks for laptops:
• 3.7.1 Have any recommendations to share on anti-theft bags for travel?

Are anti-theft bags worth it?

What features make a bag theft-proof.

What makes a good anti-theft bag are a variety of features to aid in the safety and protection of your valuables and personal information, such as hidden pockets, cross body, slash-proof, RFID blocking protection, sturdy locks and locks to fixtures.

A good theft-proof bag can have one or a combination of these features.

But ultimately, the important part is that you are comfortable using it.

What to look for in anti-theft bags for travel

Hidden and multiple pockets.

I have forever been a fan of backpacks and bags with multiple pockets and hidden pockets on the inside liner.   All my gear backpacks and daypacks have had – at the least-  inside pocket nestled against the back of the backpack or an outside pocket hidden against my back. Pickpockets cannot enter it without notice.  Bags with hidden pockets are great for stashing a money belt, extra cash and important documents like a passport.

Best anti-theft hidden/multiple pocket bags:

1. ameribag healthy back bag  .

Before I donned a camera backpack in my travels, I used the AmeriBag Healthy sling bag when traveling Spain and Morocco and I loved it. It’s slim shape is misleading. The bag expands well and has multiple pockets outside and inside and it hugs the body in a comfortable ergonomic way. I could carry a camcorder, small lightweight jacket, moleskine notebook and more.  Twenty years later, I still have it and use it for shopping, going to the beach and working freelance in video production.

2. Leaper Canvas Crossbody Messenger Bag  

This stylishly cute canvas messenger bag has a hidden pocket on the back, two outer access pockets for documents and note pads, the main compartment that fits a 14-inch laptop. Additional features are a combination lock, sturdy zippers, and an external battery charging port with a built-in charging cable.

It’s a very practical but fashionable urban-looking bag. You can carry it sling-style as a messenger bag or hand carry it.  Measurements: 11.4 x 15 x 4.5in

3. NicGid sling Crossbody Messenger Bag

 This outdoor backpack sling bag has a hidden pocket on the back and multiple pockets from access pockets to main compartment. It resembles a military bag and has a rugged build. It holds 14″ laptop and has a reversible strap with an anti-theft pouch to store valuables such as money, mobile phone, etc… Measurements: 11.8in x 15in  x 3.5in

Crossbody or sling bags

Crossbody bags let thieves know you’re not going to be an easy target. A cross-body bag sits in the center of your gravity and offers you the option of wearing it on your back or against your chest. The latter lets your arms doubly ensure that no one can enter your bag against your guard.

Best anti-theft cross-body bags for minimalist travel

4. travelon anti-theft classic slim bag.

TravelOn is a good brand for slash-proof bags. This Classic TravelOn Slim Crossbody Bag is a flat travel bag featuring five-point security:  slash-proof body and straps, RFID blocking and interlocking zippers, and a lockdown zipper so no one can enter without your permission. The cool selling point for this bag is that it has convertible straps and you can wear it both, crossbody and backpack. Measurements: 9” x 10.5” x 1”

Read 5 minimalist pick-pocket proof bags

5. Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack

For those who love messenger-style crossbody bags, this Waterfly crossbody sling backpack serves as a sleek waterproof daypack for hiking and urban maneuvers. It has two mesh bag holders for a water bottle or umbrella and an adjustable and reversible strap that can carry a mobile phone (screen size under 7 inches). It has three outer access pockets so you can have items in convenient reach and there are a few pocket compartments inside so you can be organized. All over, it is a sporty toolkit bag for the minimalist who has many small items to store. Measurements: 7 x 3.5 x 15 inches

3. Slash-proof

Purses signal obvious money to any pickpocket and their straps are always thin. But Travelon is known to make great slash-proof purses with a wire mesh inside the lining, making it sturdier and unbreakable. Slash proof travel sling bag anti theft is good also.

Best anti-theft slash-proof bags for stylish travel:

6. travelon anti-theft classic essential messenger bag.

This simple and classic cut travelon anti theft crossbody bag is constructed with a water and dirt-resistant fabric and is ideal for the solo traveler who is on a simple mission… sightseeing. It also has TravelOn’s famous five-point security: slash-proof body and straps and RFID blocking so thieves cannot get scan your credit card and valuable documents. It has interlocking zippers and a lockdown zipper with one main compartment and an access pocket on the outside.

For more smart solo travel safety items, check out my list of pickpocket-proof items .

7. Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

This simple travelon anti theft crossbody bag has a thin strap that is slash-proof. There are also interlocking zippers on the main compartment and two access pockets on the outside. Comes in a variety of print colors. Sleek, simple and stylish. Measurements: 14.5 x 12 x 1.5

Download my checklist of 25 solo travel mistakes to avoid

Rfid blocking protection.

These days, theft doesn’t only happen in the old school way of bag theft, but through the theft of identity and personal information, as well.  Bags with built-in RFID-blocking technology give you peace of mind that your personal info is protected.

Best anti-theft RFID protection bags:

8. baggallini rfid journey crossbody.

Functional machine-washable bag with built-in RFID-blocking technology. There is a hidden pocket in the back of the bag as well as pockets to store smaller documents and credit cards. Simply cute, durable and lightweight, this is for the traveler who navigates with the essentials.

9. Baggallini Crossbody Bag

This Baggalini crossbody purse is made of durable and water-resistant nylon.  There are many pockets so you can stay organized. The wide base is deeper front-to-back than the top, so when it’s loaded with items, the bag stands upright by itself. This is ideal for packrats, as it stores more than it appears to hold. It includes a detachable RFID blocking wrist purse. Overall, very nice, practical design and a popular choice for women. Measurements: 8.5 x 11 x 4.5.

Locks to fixtures

Anti-theft laptop backpacks with the ability to secure your bag to fixtures are a great feature to have. Additional features include sturdy and locking zippers for further security, knowing that thieves will not be able to open your zipper!

Best anti-theft locking backpacks for laptops:

10. travelon anti-theft classic backpack.

This classic anti-theft backpack has a 5-Point Anti-Theft Security System which includes: lock down straps to  prevent bag snatchers and you can lock it to a chair for extra security, 2) anti-pickpocket locking zippers and compartments, 3) slash-proof body and straps. and RFID blocking pockets. Room for a small laptop, water bottle and makes a great daypack!

11. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 25L Backpack

This day pack is similar to the Travelon Anti-theft Classic but with more of a traditional shape. Durable, water-resistant, the Pacsafe Metrosafe 25L Laptop backpack is a likeable anti-theft day pack for any occasion from daily use to international travel. It has three access pockets with lockable zippers, slash-proof straps and two side pockets for water bottle and umbrella. It has one RFID pocket that can be locked to fixtures and chairs so thieves cannot run away with it.

The backpack has a non-descript demeanor to keep it from looking like a valuable bag and it holds a 15″ laptop.  Travelers love it for its comfort, ability to store enough from a weekend to longer, its safety and quality. 9″H x 11. 8″W x 6. 7″D.

Trip Insurance is an Added Precaution for Travel Theft?

Buy trip insurance that covers theft .   I’ve used the latter when I know my adventures will be rugged and a little iffy where travel theft is concerned. Read more .

Have any recommendations to share on anti-theft bags for travel?

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

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

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

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

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

Crossbody bags

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: 5 best backpacks for every travel style

Accessories

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel in 2024 [Men & Women]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

777 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

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The Benefits of a Sling Backpack

Things to consider with sling backpacks, 1. a bargain backpack perfect for everyday use, 2. big-brand quality for a compact carry bag, 3. retro looks and modern-day convenience, 4. get festival-ready with a rope bag, 6. military styling for modern-day ops of all kinds, 7. a stylish, tablet-friendly urban sling bag, 8. bright, bold, and beautiful: funky sling bags suitable for all occasions, 9. a rugged, water-resistant sling backpack, 10. super-secure with integrated combination lock, 11. locking zippers and slash-resistant fabrics, 12. large enough to cope, yet light enough to carry, 13. vintage cool for the man about town, 14. security conscious sling bag with locking zippers, final thoughts.

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Sling backpacks are well-suited for trendy travelers, surf dudes, sun worshipers, and mountain climbers alike. Slinging your stuff over your shoulder has never been easier, and there are plenty of crossbody bags out there for you to choose from.

Though a sling backpack will dramatically reduce the amount of useable storage space available compared to a standard backpack, it will still offer you a sleek, chic, and useful way to carry your belongings .

Sling packs allow you to keep your hands free and give you the option to wear it either across your body or close to your chest. You can adjust the shoulder strap to find your perfect setting, and padded and breathable back panels will prevent you from getting hot and sweaty.

These types of bags also offer super fast access to your belongings , and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

Hot Tip: Sling backpacks are particularly useful as camera bags since they make it so quick and easy to access your camera. However, if you’d prefer to travel with a specific bag for your camera, here’s a great guide on the best travel camera bags .

Every sling-style backpack is different from the next. Available in a wide range of colors, styles, and sizes, the right sling is as stylish and practical as you are. Consider the following before making your decision:

Size and Capacity

Sling backpacks are more compact than a big backpack and have a much slimmer silhouette. With anywhere from 5- to 30-liter capacity options, the average sling backpack can hold around 8 to 10 liters of your most personal belongings on the move.

Part of the beauty of a sling is its streamlined look and sleek shape. The downside of the sling is that it will never hold as much as a regular backpack — so you shouldn’t expect it to. Designed to be much more minimalist, your sling backpack is there to carry essential items like your cash, coins, wallet , phone, noise-canceling headphones , and sometimes an e-reader or tablet.

Material and Durability

Sling bags need to look great and be built to last. For durability, choose a bag that is made from a strong, hard-wearing material such as canvas or heavy cotton.

If you are planning on heading out into unpredictable weather or considering a water-based adventure, you may want to look at nylon or PVC bags to help protect against water damage.

Bottom Line: Because of the way you wear the bag, the fabric will need to be smooth enough not to chafe and breathable enough to prevent sweat patches from forming on your upper body.

The key to comfort when wearing your sling backpack is to keep it light. Carry just a few of your most essential belongings, and you’ll have a load far lighter than over-stuffed backpacks.

But pack too much, and you will soon know about it! Unlike traditional backpacks , with a sling, the weight is not evenly distributed across both shoulders. This can lead to a sore shoulder on 1 side of your body if the load is too heavy.

Sling backpacks are designed to offer flexibility when wearing, but this means you lose some of the additional stability and support features that traditional backpacks offer. Waist belts, sternum straps, and other load-relieving elements are not present on a sling backpack.

The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel

• Waterfly Chest Sling Backpack

With a sleek and straightforward design, this ultra-lightweight sling backpack looks great and will handle all your daily commuting or vacationing essentials. Made from soft, water-resistant nylon, this sling has a 7-liter capacity and plenty of extra pockets.

The main compartment is large enough to comfortably transport your iPad or a magazine, while the extra key rack, card pouch, wallet pouch, notebook pouch, and 2 pen pouches will keep all your gear safe and organized on the move. For super-easy hydration on packed trains, long walks, or anywhere else, the side mesh pockets will keep your water bottle close at hand.

Your shoulder strap can be adjusted to fit any size or shape and can be moved from 23.6 inches to 43.3 inches. On the strap itself, there is a useful little pouch that will keep your phone safe and accessible.

All in all, this is a nice little sling backpack that you can take anywhere.

What We Like

• Handy pouch on the sling strap for quick access to items

What We Don’t Like

• Water bottle holder is a bit small

• Osprey Packs Daylite Shoulder Sling

Made by one of the world’s most reputable luggage brands , the Daylite Sling from Osprey is perfect for your daily commute, days out, or a trip to the beach. Small enough to be easy to carry, yet roomy enough to hold everything you need, this is an outstanding quality sling pack.

This pack is made from high-quality, ripstop nylon and features Osprey’s soft and breathable NeoSpacer mesh material on the shoulder strap for superior comfort. The Daylite promises to be water-resistant and extremely comfortable to carry, including a key clip and front zippered mesh pocket for storing smaller items.

The Daylite comes in a choice of 4 funky colors, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a good quality sling backpack from a leading luggage brand.

• Padded and breathable sling strap
• Designed to be worn on the right shoulder only

• Leaper Retro Sling Bag

Made from soft and washable canvas with accents of elegant-looking PU leather, this messenger sling bag has a retro look that’s perfect for festivals, vacations, and those who like to stand out from the crowd.

Big enough to comfortably hold a slim laptop up to 13 inches, this may not be the largest bag on the market, but it is still a funky, practical alternative to a traditional backpack or tote . It also has additional straps so you can carry this bag by either the handle or the adjustable shoulder strap.

There is plenty of space in this medium-sized slingback: you get a zipper pocket in the front flap, 2 side pockets, and a main compartment with further inner pockets. You’ll find enough room to keep your laptop , iPhone, wallet, snacks, drinks, and other essentials all in 1 place.

Available in a variety of colors, this retro sling backpack is an excellent choice.

• Sling strap is adjustable
• Laptop pocket is not padded

• NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag and Urban Travel Backpack

With a ton of compartments to stow your stuff, this sling backpack also comes with an RFID-blocking anti-theft pocket for your most vulnerable valuables. Made of water-resistant polyester canvas and constructed using top-quality zippers and durable straps, this budget backpack offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Ergonomically designed for comfort, the NeatPack bag can be slung over either your shoulder or worn across your chest to keep it safe from thieves. With a convenient front cell phone pocket and separate headphone access, you can easily get to everything you need while on the go. The padded, breathable strap helps keep the bag comfortable and lightweight wherever you are.

Available in a choice of colors, this little bag would work well for school, travel, or even your daily commute. The sling design allows you to keep your hands free to cycle, walk, or run to your next destination.

• Spacious main compartment and lots of pockets
• Zippers can break easily

Hot Tip: For more options, check out these anti-theft travel backpacks .

5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag Shoulder Pack

Get your gear in order with this fully customizable tactical bag made from water-resistant and incredibly lightweight 1050D nylon. The fully-cushioned adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to find your customized fit, and the grenade design makes this a must for anyone with a penchant for military styling.

With a coms pocket at the shoulder, a covert tactical pocket at the rear, and a secondary double zip pocket, this sling pack offers plenty of organized storage areas . An interior stash pocket paired with a hydration pocket and a pass-through port make it easy to stay hydrated , too.

Equipped with the patented 5.11 Tier System to integrate with other 5.11 RUSH tactical bags, plus YKK self-healing zippers and a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, this is a superb backpack perfect for any adventure.

• Has a hydration pocket and a pass-through port
• Can chafe your neck if packed heavy

Solo New York Ludlow Universal Tablet Sling Bag

• Padded compartment protects tablets up to 12.9″” and laptops up to 12″
• Front zippered pocket
• Front zip-down organizer section
• Adjustable shoulder strap

A break from the usual sack-shaped sling bags, the Solo New York Ludlow is designed specifically with tablet and smaller laptops in mind, holding up to 12.9-inch tablets and up to 12-inch laptops in a padded compartment.

The bag also comes with a front zippered pocket and has a front zip-down organizer area. An adjustable shoulder strap ensures it stays safe and where it needs to be as you go about town.

• Specifically designed for tablets and smaller laptops
• The square, loose-fit design really makes it more of a shoulder bag

MOSISO Sling Backpack

Choose from pretty florals or bright solid colors with these youthful sling backpacks that would be great for students, adventurers, and commuters alike. Big enough to carry an iPad Air or a smaller tablet in the large main compartment , this bag looks and feels much more expensive than it actually is.

With a ton of multi-functional storage areas, you can fill up the accessory compartment and pockets with your charging cables, power cords, books, papers, personal items, and snacks, while the mesh bottle holder will keep your liquid refreshment safe.

The shoulder strap can be adjusted to reach between 18 and 36 inches, and you can carry this bag on either shoulder as well as across your chest.

Padded and breathable straps help ease discomfort and eliminate excess moisture, while the water-repellent polyester will keep wet weather at bay. This is a nice-looking sling bag that won’t break the bank.

• Stylish floral designs
• Mesh external pocket is a bit weak

Nicgid Sling Bag Chest Shoulder Backpack

Made from high-quality nylon that resists water and rips, this is a compact carry bag that can be worn across your shoulder to keep your hands free and your load light. This design is perfect for days out, trips abroad, and even on your regular commute .

With multiple storage areas, the large main compartment holds your iPad Mini, e-reader, or notebooks, while the inner pouch will keep your cell phone safe. The front of the bag has 4 zippered pockets that are super convenient for accessing items you need on the go. Your keys, passports, pens, and money will all be within easy reach.

The shoulder strap is padded and can be adjusted, and this bag is available in a variety of colors. We think this pack is sleek and practical.

• Durable and comfortable to wear
• Strap is not reversible to wear on both shoulders

Anti Theft Sling Bag Shoulder Crossbody Backpack

With great-looking, water-resistant oxford fabric, this is a minimalist shoulder bag that is sleek on the outside and spacious on the inside.

In the large main compartment, you can easily carry your iPad, notebooks, documents, wallet, money, cell phone, and other everyday essentials. The 2-way zipper gives easy access to the main compartment, and the built-in USB port allows you to charge easily on the go.

The side and back zip pockets are perfect for keeping your important items within easy reach, and you can rest assured knowing your valuables are safe in the combination locked main compartment. With an adjustable satchel strap, you can let this bag swing as high or as low as you want, and it can be worn on either shoulder.

Breathable, comfortable, and incredibly lightweight, this is a great little sling backpack for any adventure.

• Combination lock on the main compartment
• External pockets are a little small

Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag

With locking compartments and durable construction, this bag is an excellent choice for anyone embarking on extreme adventures . The slash-resistant sling strap can be attached to a post or a chair, and the RFID-blocking card slots will protect you from identity fraud.

Designed with security in mind, this bag also features a stainless-steel mesh lining that prevents would-be criminals from slashing or ripping your pack to get at your valuables. There are also locking compartments to keep your personal belongings safe on the move.

Look great and keep your stuff safe as you travel with one of the most protective sling backpacks on the market. A good buy for anyone heading out into crowds.

• RFID-blocking pockets
• Main compartment zipper is not easily accessible when bag is worn on 1 shoulder

Kawei Knight Large Sling Bag

Bigger is definitely better when it comes to this oversized sling backpack that has enough room for all your essentials (and then some). Made of water-resistant and nylon, this bag can carry everything you need for work or weekend getaways , including a 15-inch laptop, but its triangular design and minimal weight should ensure it doesn’t become too bulky.

The interior includes several pockets, a main compartment with laptop sleeve, and a secure zippered pouch. Its flap has its own compartment, and there are 2 side pockets.

• Enough space for most things you’d need for a day
• Not stylish, and could actually be too big for those looking to keep it light

Mens Vintage PU Leather Sling Bag

Made from premium leather, this is a stylish sling bag with a timeless feel. With waterproof properties and an ergonomic design , it is as comfortable to wear as it is good-looking. And this bag has a hidden secret: its very own charging port for topping up your cell phone battery using your power bank .

Spacious enough to hold your laptop, iPad, tablet, phone, books, and much more, this bag will keep your gear safe and organized. Multiple pockets add extra hiding holes for smaller items, and the main compartment opens wide for easy access.

Fashionable and spacious, this leather bag is perfect for serious travelers and daily commuters alike.

• Has an external USB port and a headphone jack
• Sling strap could be longer

Pacsafe Vibe 325 10 Liter Anti Theft Sling Bag

Brought to you by the travel experts at Pacsafe, this little sling bag is built to last. Offering enough space to keep all your essentials close at hand yet light enough to wear for hours at a time, this is one of the best sling backpacks your money can buy — but it does come at a price.

Made from high-quality nylon with a wipeable polyester lining, the Pacsafe Vibe offers incredible protection against would-be thieves. Individual compartments can be secured with locking zippers, while the fabric of the bag is cut-resistant and features a lightweight steel mesh inlay to keep your gear safe.

The shoulder strap is padded for comfort and reinforced with wire to prevent it from being slashed or cut in crowded places. The strap can also be used to securely fix your bag to tables or chairs to keep your possessions safe from theft.

Sizable, attractive, and one of the most protective bags on the market, this is an excellent choice for anyone traveling overseas.

• Sling strap is reinforced with wire to be slash-proof
• Quite a narrow bag, so not good for bulky items

Sling backpacks are a great alternative to traditional backpacks when you don’t need to carry too much stuff with you. Filling the void somewhere between fashion and practicality, you can carry them on either shoulder to keep your most valued possessions within easy reach at all times.

Cheaper, lighter, and smaller than a regular daypack , a sling bag will have its limitations. But if you want to remain hands-free and can travel a bit lighter, these are a good option for all types of adventures.

If you’re looking for a little more room and deciding on the best travel backpack, check out this great article on the best travel backpacks for men and women .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sling backpacks bad for your back.

As sling backpacks cause 1-sided strain, they can cause back pain if they are too heavy. Sling backpacks should only be used for lightweight essentials and are not designed for carrying heavy loads for long periods. You will be better off with a backpack for these occasions.

What is a sling backpack?

A sling backpack is quite similar to a regular backpack but the major difference is that it only has 1 strap and it is worn crossbody. A lot of sling backpacks tend to be triangular in shape or slimmer. Given they are worn on 1 shoulder only, they also have smaller capacities to avoid shoulder pain.

Are sling backpacks good for hiking?

We wouldn’t recommend a sling backpack for hiking as they don’t provide the same back support and features regular hiking backpacks would. Sling bags are best left for short urban adventures or when you need quick access to your belongings. Stick to regular backpacks for hiking.

What is the best sling bag?

These are some of the best sling bags that we recommend:

• KAVU Rope Bag

Are sling bags good for travel?

Sling bags offer superfast access to your belongings, and the lightweight design makes them easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Best Anti-Theft Bags To Carry While Traveling, According To Reviewers

Shopping Writer at HuffPost

In addition to your luggage and garment bags , you should consider investing in an anti-theft bag to tote on your next trip .

With the help of special security features such as lockable zippers, anti-slash fabrics, hidden pockets and RFID-blocking technology, these bags can help protect your most valuable belongings, such as your wallet , tablet and laptop .

And depending on their size, they can even be used as your personal item or carry-on bag . Below, you’ll find the eight best anti-theft bags, according to reviewers who use them while traveling.

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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Best Travel Sling Bag 2024

For me, the best travel sling bag (also referred to as a crossbody bag) is the perfect way to carry my personal belongings whether I am out sightseeing or travelling to my destination.  I have a specific lightweight cross body travel bag that I use whenever we travel and leave my usual handbag at home.

As I tend to carry all the families’ passports and tickets etc, for me, the best sling bag for travel is something that can fit my purse, mobile, and camera as well as other odds and ends I need during a day of sightseeing.

If you are also in the market for one of the best travel crossbody bags for travel, then you are in the right place because in this article I share all my research for the current best crossbody bags for travel.

In this guide, I look at a variety of travel crossbody bags and take a closer look at their various features.  I also talk about why you might want to consider a crossbody anti-theft bag which has inbuilt security features.

This guide looks at some of the best sling bag brands, including a few of the Pacsafe bags and Travelon anti-theft bags, two of the most well-known brands when it comes to anti-theft handbag options.  

Whether you are looking for the best sling bag for men or women, the best messenger bag for travel or even a sling bag for a laptop, this article covers various options and no doubt includes the perfect crossbody bag for travel to suit your needs.

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

Page Contents

• 1 What is a crossbody bag and why do I recommend it for travel?
• 2 My pick for the best travel sling bag 2024:Travelon Crossbody Bucket Bag
• 3 Comparison chart for the best crossbody bags for travel 2024
• 4.2 Compartments 
• 4.3 Security features 
• 4.5 Comfort
• 5.1 Best sling bag for travel overall: Travelon anti-theft crossbody bucket bag
• 5.2 Best travel handbag: Travelon anti-theft signature crossbody bag
• 5.3 Best sling bag for men: Pacsafe shoulder bag
• 5.4 Best budget option: OutdoorMaster sling bag
• 5.5 Travelon anti-theft classic messenger bag
• 5.6 Best leather sling bag for men: Bullcaptain sling bag
• 5.7 NeatPack crossbody bag
• 5.8 Baggallini lightweight crossbody bag
• 5.9 Pacsafe Citysafe Cx
• 5.10 Travelon anti-theft active bag

>> Looking for something else?  We have guides on a range of luggage including: 1. Kid’s Ride On Luggage 2. Carry On Backpack 3. Wheeled Backpack 4. Kids Backpacks 5. Kids Suitcases

What is a crossbody bag and why do I recommend it for travel?

First of all, what are travel crossbody bags (or sling bags) and why do I recommend you use one instead of your usual handbag when you travel?  

Cross body bags are bags that have a single shoulder strap, which is designed to be worn across the front of your body. These bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes and designs but are ultimately designed to hold everything you need for a day of sightseeing or while you are in transit.

For me, the best shoulder bag for travel is one that can not only fit my camera, purse, passport, travel vouchers, bottle of water, mobile and various other travel accessories but also keeps my items safe.

The best crossbody travel bag does all of this and more:

• The best crossbody bag for travel will have stacks of room to easily carry everything you need for a day of sightseeing or while you are in transit;
• The best crossbody bags for travel have multiple compartments designed to keep these various items well organised;
• Crossbody bags have a padded and adjustable shoulder strap designed to keep you comfortable despite holding a fair bit of weight;
• Having your bag in front of you (or on your side), rather than on your back like a backpack, allows you to easily access your items as needed as well as keeping them in view at all times; and
• Many of the best crossbody travel bags have built-in security features to prevent your physical belongings and electronic information from being stolen.

My pick for the best travel sling bag 2024: Travelon Crossbody Bucket Bag

Don’t have time to read the entire article?  Well, my pick for the best travel sling bag is the Travelon Anti Theft Crosbody Bucket Bag .  I think for the price and what you get you just can’t go past the Travelon brand and this particular Travelon bag is jam-packed with some great features.

Most importantly, it is a great size for travelling, whether it’s a day of sightseeing or while in transit to reach your destination, it will fit everything you want.  It also has plenty of great built-in security features such as a locking compartment, lockdown down straps, RFID blocking pockets and being slash resistance.

I’ve been using this bag for a few years or so now while I travel and really love it.

Keep reading below for a full review of this crossbody bag, or click here to buy now.

Comparison chart for the best crossbody bags for travel 2024

What to look for in a crossbody bag for travel.

The best bag for me is not necessarily going to be the best bag for you. Before rushing out and purchasing a bag, take time to consider the following:

What is it that you are going to carry in your bag? This is where I have gone wrong in the past and purchased a bag that wasn’t big enough for everything I wanted to carry.

For me, I usually carry my purse, mobile phone, notebook, pens, Go Pro and water bottle.   The best crossbody for travel will fit everything in comfortably and still close properly, keeping all your items safe and secure.

Compartments 

Ok so you have considered what you want to carry, now consider if these items need their own specially designed compartments. I don’t mind a few compartments, but too many and I can’t find where I have put things.

If you are travelling with a laptop or tablet, perhaps you will want one of the sling bags for laptops or a sling bag for iPads? If so, double-check what size laptop the bag caters for before purchasing to ensure it will correctly fit your laptop.

Security features 

There are a variety of anti theft bag brands that make anti theft cross body bag options (Travelon or Pacsafe are two of the best brands that come to mind) with a variety of security features such as:

• Secret Pockets: Most anti theft crossbody travel bag options have hidden pockets or small internal compartments for additional protection for your most valuable items.
• RFID Protection: RFID is the same technology that is found in your passport, key cards, driver’s license, smartphones etc which allows you to swipe or tap to pay for items or to be identified. The best anti-theft handbags for travel have built-in technology that blocks an RFID reader from accessing 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. An RFID anti-theft cross body travel bag is highly recommended to protect yourself against identity theft.
• Lock : Some anti-theft travel handbags come with locking zippers as well as the ability to lock the bag to a fixed item such as a table leg.
• Slash proof Construction: Some theft-proof handbags are made with super durable fabric which includes steel mesh to avoid thieves who use knives to slash open backpacks to physically steal your items. Straps include steel cables to prevent straps from being cut.
• YKK Zippers : Ensure your bag has high-quality zippers that aren’t easily pried apart, you also don’t want poor quality zippers that break mid-trip, and you can no longer close your bag.
• Water Resistance : A waterproof anti-theft bag or even a water-resistant pack will help protect your items from rainy weather or accidental spillages.

Crossbody bags come in a range of styles and colours so you can choose a bag that is not only practical but looks good too.  The great thing is many of them come in unisex designs so men and women can carry the same bag.

Once you put all your various items 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.

Top 10 sling bag reviews 2024

Best sling bag for travel overall: travelon anti-theft crossbody bucket bag.

Travelon is one of the biggest names when it comes to the best travel handbag options, and the Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bucket Bag is the first of three Travelon travel bags that feature in this list of best sling bags for women and men. 

This particular Travelon anti theft travel bag provides the highest security for all of your everyday items as well as stylish variations that will complement any outfit.  This is also my pick for the best sling bag for travel overall.

This Travelon shoulder bag is a lightweight shoulder bag that provides comfort and security. It offers a slash-resistant body and slash-resistant shoulder strap that can be attached to any chair, post or table.

It has two expandable mesh pockets that will fit all you need for a day out exploring, including your camera, a water bottle and a small umbrella.  Despite its large size, this is also one of the lightest sling bags in this review.

A great security feature of this Travelon anti-theft travel bag is that it provides RFID blocking pockets. This is perfect for storing your credit cards and passports without the concern of any of your information being stolen.

This Travelon anti-theft shoulder bag has an interior zippered pocket for extra security and a zip rear pocket with a removable LED light. Travelon has lived up to its name with this best anti-theft sling bag.

Perfect for the modern-day traveller, this bag is extremely functional with top of the market security capabilities and is big enough for everything you could possibly need.  If you’re after something bigger, Travelon also makes some great anti-theft backpacks .

Update: I now own this bag and have been using it for several years and LOVE IT!

Click here for more reviews and to check the price.

Best travel handbag: Travelon anti-theft signature crossbody bag

Yet another Travelon anti theft travel bag that contains both amazing security features and the perfect design. The Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Crossbody is the best travel for ladies as it can easily pass as a handbag rather than a travel bag.  Certainly one of the cute crossbody bags for travel in this guide.

This best travel handbag is lightweight with plenty of room to keep your everyday items organised.  The storage of this bag is impressive considering the size, which is why it is highly rated among the ladies!

With this travel bag, there will be more time to enjoy your trip instead of worrying about being pickpocketed. It has multiple locking compartments, with RFID blocking slots in the main compartment as well as an LED light.   

This crossbody is slash-resistant, including the strap, which can easily be attached to a table or chair while seated. The strap is adjustable, making it perfect for short or tall people and can be worn over the shoulder or across the body.

The Travelon Anti-Theft classic sling bag is not only a good handbag for travel but can be used as an everyday handbag, giving you peace of mind everywhere you go!

Click here for more reviews and to check the price

Best sling bag for men: Pacsafe shoulder bag

Pacsafe is another big brand name when it comes to the best anti theft shoulder bags for travel.  This Pacsafe anti theft bag is a great choice for those wanting one of the best cross body travel bag options with all the security features as well as a sturdy build. A great option for people looking for one of the best sling bags for men or sling bags for ladies too.

A lightweight yet sturdy build with zippered main and front pockets, this travel sling bag for men or women is very roomy while also looking sophisticated and smart. It is a great sized bag that will fit all your belongings nicely.

This Pacsafe anti-theft travel bag has hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless steel wire mesh that is embedded into the fabric which will stop any potential slash and run theft.

Like most Pacsafe anti-theft bags, this bag has RFIDsafe blocking material to protect your ID and credit cards against hacker scanning and also a Lockabout Security Clip and smart zipper security that provide multiple layers of protection. The lockdown points for the zippers fight off the intentions of pickpockets!

Other great features of this best man bag for travel are the adjustable Carrysafe slash guard shoulder strap, a tablet/11-inch MacBook sleeve and the Turn & Lock Security Hook allowing you to attach your bag to a secure fixture.

This Pacsafe sling bag for guys or ladies is a great option if you are after one of the RFID crossbody travel bags, it has great security features but will also serve as a great everyday bag.

Best budget option: OutdoorMaster sling bag

If you are after a simple travel bag and are not overly concerned with the fancy security features, the OutdoorMaster Sling Bag is a great budget option. It is a great alternative to a backpack and is the perfect style for both men and women.

The OutdoorMaster Sling Bag is made of lightweight, sturdy material. It is very practical as it contains several different compartments to store all your belongings and more! These compartments are equipped with smart pockets, including a hidden anti-theft pocket and a water bottle holder.  There is plenty of room for your camera, tablet even a small laptop computer up to 12 inches.

Not only is this one of the great crossbody travel bags for women or men, but the reversible shoulder strap also makes it the ideal bag for both right and left-handed people.

This budget sling bag comes in a variety of colours and is designed to be comfortable as well as durable which is perfect for those long days out and about.

Travelon anti-theft classic messenger bag

If you are after one of the stylish women’s anti theft travel bags, you will love this Travelon anti theft messenger bag which is available in a range of stylish colour options.

Looking at this Travelon anti-theft bag from the outside, you would have no idea how many great security features it has. With a rear organiser that has RFID blocking features to protect your cards and passport, along with front zip pocket locks and an adjustable slash-resistant shoulder strap, anti-theft travel bags for women like this are sure to help keep all your belongings very well protected from thieves.

It also has great organisational features such as the 4 wall pockets that are located inside the locking compartment, a pen loop and two mesh expansion pockets that would easily hold sunglasses, an umbrella or a water bottle.  

Another great feature of this Travelon anti theft cross body bag is that it can easily be secured to a stationary object to prevent it being involved in a “grab and go” incident.

This Travelon anti theft crossbody bag is made from polyester and available in so many different stylish colour options, this is one of the great anti theft travel bags women will love.

Best leather sling bag for men: Bullcaptain sling bag

Men and women alike, who are after one of the best leather crossbody bags for travel,  will love this sling bag by Bullcaptain , which is genuine 100% leather and practical for both everyday use and travel.

This leather sling bag men and women will both love, has a single large compartment as well as two additional external zippered pockets for smaller items.  This bag is big enough for everything you need during your travels, including your phone, wallet, iPad, camera, passport and more.

Constructed from 100% high quality cowhide leather, not only is this bag practical but it is super stylish as well.  Other features of this leather sling bag for women and men include an adjustable shoulder strap, metal buckle and headphone cable hole.

This is a super stylish bag that the fashion conscious male and female traveller will just love.

Click here to read more reviews and to check the price.

NeatPack crossbody bag

Another great option for women looking for a great functional travel bag is this NeatPack Crossbody bag .  It comes with plenty of space to store everything you need for a day of sightseeing, plus it has some built in security features to keep your valuables safe.

As well as the main spacious compartment, this bag has two additional front zippered pockets and another drop pocket.  It has a side pocket for a water bottle. 

Inside the main compartment is a zippered RFID pocket which is perfect for keeping your passport and credit cards.  The bag is spacious and you could easily fit in an iPad, plus the back of the bag has a velcro pocket which is great for storing maps or tickets that you need to access quickly.

The bag comes with an adjustable strap which is also padded to ensure it is comfortable for hours of wearing.  The durable nylon fabric repels moisture and stains which is ideal for long days of travel.

Baggallini lightweight crossbody bag

Inspired by the classic boho style the Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bag will have you travelling in style. It is a functional cross body bag that will keep your items organized and secure.  This is the bag that I use for day to day use and I just love it.

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. It will also keep credit card and passport information secure as it is fit with RFID blocking technology.   This boho tote is lightweight and doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the interior. It offers compartments for all your belongings as well as exterior pockets to keep essential items at your fingertips.

The strap is secure and adjustable. You can choose to make it short and wear it as a shoulder bag or make it as long as needed to fit comfortably across the body.

The Everywhere Lightweight Crossbody Bag is very popular among women due to its stylish design and colour options. It is extremely versatile as it is a great bag for daily use if you are not travelling on a regular basis.

Pacsafe Citysafe Cx

Pacsafe travel bags make some of the best options for anti theft cross body handbags and this Pacsafe Citysafe Cx is no exception. This versatile bag is jam packed with added security as well as having superb organisational features.

Although still very lightweight, this is an eXomesh bag meaning it has hidden stainless steel wire mesh that is embedded into the fabric and the adjustable Carrysafe Slashguard Strap is wire-reinforced and also helps to protect against slash or cut and run theft.

Like most Pacsafe travelsafe bags , these crossbody travel handbags have built-in RFIDsafe Blocking Material which will protect your ID and credit card information from would-be hacker scanners.

Inside the Pacsafe anti-theft shoulder bag is a zippered compartment that would fit a phone and passport. The main compartment of these Pacsafe handbags is zippered and can easily fit a tablet, especially when you consider it folds out to allow for extra space when needed.

Other great features of these Pacsafe anti theft bags are the Turn & Lock security hook, allowing you to secure the bag to a stationary object, and the ability to attach the zipper pullers to security hooks.

This Pacsafe shoulder bag would be the perfect handbag for travel and also an everyday handbag.

Travelon anti-theft active bag

If you are looking for a bag small in size and lightweight that contains all the security features Travelon is known for, the Anti-Theft Active Bag is the one to choose from.

The large main compartment and the front pocket both have locking zippers to protect from pickpockets. The main compartment comes with a zippered RFID blocking card and passport pocket. For complete protection and peace of mind, the bag is slash-resistant, including the strap that is also adjustable and can be locked to a table or chair.

This cross body bag provides plenty of room to fit all the essentials and to stay organised, which is perfect for travel.   And an interior tethered key clip with LED light helps you find items in your bag. 

With three colour options to choose from and an affordable price, this is a great bag for the female traveller.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Hopefully you found this guide on choosing a cross body bag helpful.  We have guides on other travel products too such as kids suitcases ,  carry on backpacks  and  wheeled backpacks.

2 thoughts on “Best Travel Sling Bag 2024”

These are great travel sling bags & handbag… I loved the master Sling bag. Visit our T-traxx bags website for executive bags.

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• Liter Capacity: 5 • Dimensions: 7” x 12” x 3” • 11 plastic bottles diverted from landfills and waterways • Weight: 10 oz • Materials: 100% Recycled Mélange & Ballistic Nylon • Water Resistant: Yes • Vegan: Yes • RFID Protection : Yes • Ways to Wear: Sling Bag • Anti Theft Features - Anti-slash mesh at the bottom of the bag - Main zipper cliplock - Exterior zipper tunnel lock - Chair lock loop - Cut-proof strap • # of pockets: 4 - 1 Main zippered pocket - 1 Padded sleeve - 1 mesh zippered pocket - 1 Exterior zippered pocket • Adjustable crossbody strap: 22.5” – 40.5” • ReturnMe Tag: Yes. Learn More • Key Leash: Yes • Airline Item Size: Personal Item* • Designed in Boulder, CO *Fits the size standard for most US airlines. Always double-check with the airline for their exact requirements.

RFID-Blocking Technology

Equipped with RFID protection to guard against cyber theft. RFID blocking is the best way to protect the sensitive information on your credit cards and passport. Learn more about Sherpani and RFID here.

Zipper Locks

Two kinds of locking zippers deter pickpockets by adding a difference-making layer of protection. With tunnel locks on external pockets and a clip lock for the main compartment, you’re far from an easy target.

Wire Loop Lock

Swipe and grab theft is one of the most common types of bag theft that travelers experience. The wire-loop chair lock allows you to secure your bag to a chair or table leg in seconds.

Global Digital Bag Tag

Say goodbye to old bag tags that display your personal information. Each Anti-Theft bag comes with a ReturnMe Tag that connects your bag to a globally recognized lost-and-found service. Learn more about ReturnMe Tags here.

Slash Resistant Bottom

The bottom of each Anti-Theft bag is reinforced with a layer of sturdy mesh that is durable and cut-proof. This will prevent slash-and-spill theft.

Slash Resistant Strap

This style includes Sherpani’s proprietary anti-slash crossbody strap. Our crossbody strap is completely wireless! It can’t be bent out of shape, doesn’t add weight or bulk to the bag, and won’t dig into your shoulder.

Material & Care

Sherpani travel bags are sustainably produced and made from 100% recycled materials! We turn discarded plastic bottles into a soft, recycled nylon, diverting plastic waste from landfills and waterways in the process. Vegan leather accents also elevate the designs.

Learn more about how to clean and care for your Sherpani bags here.

About the Anti-Theft Collection

Sherpani’s Anti-Theft Collection is made to help female travelers explore the world with a sense of freedom, confidence, and security. We believe that travel restores the human spirit, and work to empower women to travel more and worry less.

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Our Alpine Heritage: We are happy people who love what we do. We have been designing bags in Colorful Colorado for over twenty-one years.

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Questions? Comments? Design ideas? We love to hear from our community - reach out at [email protected]

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In our award-winning history as a sustainable company, Sherpani has repurposed 7.6 million (& counting!) plastic bottles into sustainable and remarkable women’s bags.

What are you looking for?

15 best anti-theft bags for travel in 2024.

Whether you’re looking for your next travel backpack or purse for daytime museum hopping, it can be a great idea to invest in anti-theft travel bags.

We’re talking about bags with RFID scanning protection, lots of locks, and secret pockets, while also being slash-proof and water-resistant.

So, an anti-theft bag will not only protect your valuable items, they are also very durable and long-lasting.

These bags also make great gifts for any backpacker in your life! It’s a gesture to show that you care about their safety, and something they’ll definitely be using for a long time.

Not sure where to start? Good news! We’ve compiled a list of the best anti-theft bags you can get for travel, which includes everything from large backpacks to compact sling bags and fashionable purses.

Want a quick answer? Our top pick is the Loctote Flak Sack II .

Travellerspoint

Quick roundup of our top picks

What to look for in a great anti-theft travel bag

The best anti-theft bags for travel would have impeccable security features in their designs. Here are some things to look for in specific:

1. RFID protection

People nowadays can simply brush past you to take your electronic info, including from your credit card and passport. All they need is a special scanner.

So, it’s important that your bag has RFID blocking , which usually applies to a special compartment inside where you can store your important cards and identities. This will prevent accidents and identity theft.

The key to a great anti-theft backpack is solid locking ability.  Some thieves are so skilled that you won’t even realize they have taken anything at the time. Which is something we were very wary of when roaming crowded markets in countries like India or Thailand .

Therefore, never leave your bag unattended when travelling! Some bags allow you to lock it close and also to other things, like trees or iron bars. They may even feature additional pockets with locks inside to protect against pickpockets.

3. Slash-proof

We also recommend bags that are slash-proof, which means choosing strong fabric materials that won’t tear when thieves slash at your bag. This includes steel mesh and steel cables, which knives won’t be able to slice through.

4. YKK zippers

Don’t underestimate your zippers either! Poorly made zippers can break easily even after minimal usage, which means you won’t be able to zip your bag fully and make it vulnerable to theft.

YKK zippers are among the most reliable and popular manufacturers in the world. They’re super durable and not easy to pry apart.

5. Water-resistant

Next, consider getting waterproof bags that will make your trip so much easier. It has nothing to do with directly protecting against theft, but can prevent your clothing items and electronics from rain or even water spills. If you plan places like Ireland , where the weather is unpredictable, a water-resistant bag could be a life-saver.

6. Secret pockets

Hidden compartments are a traveller’s best friend, no matter what. We’re talking about small, nondescript pockets hidden deep inside or on the sides of your bag. You can use them to keep some of your most important things.

From credit cards and passports, to cash and jewellery too. These secret pockets aren’t obvious and are hard to find.

7. Style and comfort

Last but not least, don’t overlook the style and comfort of your travel bag! After all, you will be wearing them throughout the trip and any uncomfortable straps or padding may make it a nightmare to carry around…

Consider getting a bag with breathable fabric and adjustable straps, just to make it comfortable for you. Plus, make sure that the model fits your personal style and is in the size that you need!

15 Best anti-theft bags for traveling

1. loctote flak sack ii - overall best anti-theft travel bag.

Weight: 2 lbs (includes lock)

Capacity: 13 litres

Size: 18" x 14" (fits MacBook Pro 13 inch)

The Loctote Flak Sack II has to be our go-to choice for the best anti-theft bag in the market today.

If you want the best of the best and top-notch security, this is the bag you’ve been looking for.

It’s an awesome drawstring backpack with extra tough fabric, cut-resistant ropes, strong locking mechanism, and fleece-lined interior RFID blocking compartments.

We use this bag a lot and it's perfect for carrying all of our day-to-day gear like diabetes equipment, gym gear, or vlogging equipment . Or my 13 inch laptop on it's own if we're heading somewhere to work.

There’s also another pocket inside (10" x 8") that can hold an iPad Mini.

The main highlight of this bag is definitely the trademark Flaknit™ fabric , which is the ultimate innovation for anti-theft bags. It’s super slash-proof that can resist A9 cut level ; the highest there is! 

You don’t have to worry about slashes, tears, or abrasions anymore.

The straps are not only cut-resistant, they also have a patented double steel reinforced locking system and a combination lock so you can simply secure your bag to any heavy furniture.

Plus, there’s a sternum strap that will keep the drawstrings centered on your chest. It’s a super small detail but makes this bag comfortable to wear.

For your credit cards and e-passports, the fleece lining on the inner pocket shields have RFID blocking to prevent identity theft.

In terms of style, the Flack Sack II flaunts a pretty modish design too. It comes in three neutral colors (black, stealth black, and heather grey) and has lovely natural leather accents.

Not to mention it’s extremely lightweight - at only 2 pounds including the lock!

If you want something smaller yet equally safe and tough. we’d recommend the Loctote AntiTheft Sack 3L . This Is essentially a packable version that you can throw into your main bag and still protect your valuables.

All in all, this is an amazing day backpack you can bring with you while travelling, or even to use when running errands everyday.

Special Features:

• Slash-proof fabric
• Patented double steel reinforced locking strap & combination lock
• RFID blocking pocket

Read more in our full Loctote Review .

2. Loctote Cinch Pack - Best anti-theft daypack

Weight: 2.6 lbs (includes lock)

Capacity: 22 litres

Size: 20" x 13" x  6" (fits Macbook Pro 15 inch)

If you’re looking for a larger backpack with more shoulder support, go for the Loctote Cinch Pack. It’s also our top pick for a daily backpack you can use for both work or travelling.

Also a best selling product by Loctote, this is a tough and practical bag that comes with all their flagship security features.

It’s a timeless piece with a modern yet classic design style, using premium waxed canvas and full-grain leather for a durable build.

The Cinch Pack can fit most laptops up to 15 inches, while the interior pocket is also large enough to hold an iPad Mini.

Some days when traveling we require a lot of travel tech, like our blogging camera , drone and GoPro/action cams . If this is similar to you, then this would be much better fit.

The fabric is lightweight but slash- and tearproof, while also having a water-resistant coating.

Meanwhile, the backpack straps double as UHMWPE locking straps to protect your belongings.

We also love that the Cinch Pack has a hidden exterior pocket, in case you want to store something valuable but keep it somewhere that’s easy to access.

• Industrial water resistant exterior
• UHMWPE locking straps
• Hidden easy-access exterior pocket

3.   Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Backpack - Best simple yet chic anti-theft backpack

Weight: 0.71 kg

Capacity: 17 litres

Size: 39x27x16 cm

The Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Backpack is another excellent bag by Pacsafe.

It has a chic and stylish design without being too flashy, so you can maintain a sense of fashion while still blending with the crowds (this can be useful when travelling).

I got the Rose colour and I really love how it pops if you're wearing more neutral outfits!

The bag itself uses water-resistant 320D ECONYL® regenerated nylon Taslon, which feels very nice and is super easy to clean.

I also love the large loop at the top so you can carry it like a handbag when you don't want the weight on your shoulders.

Inside, there's a 16-inch laptop compartment and an RFID blocking pocket for your passport and cards, as well as a handy TurnNLock security hook.

The Citysafe CX has thinner straps than most travel bags I've reviewed, but this actually makes it more lightweight and helps set it apart from the standard models.

Plus, you will get a cut-resistant anchor strap so you can secure your bag around a bed, for example, to keep your belongings safe.

It's a very secure bag and can be a little bit fidgety to open, but that's exactly what you want with an anti-theft backpack!

• Cute and simple style
• RFID-blocking pocket
• Cut-resistant materials
• 16-inch laptop sleeve PLUS phone pocket

Read our full review of the Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack

4. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L - Best maximum sized carry-on anti-theft backpack

Weight: 4.5 lbs

Capacity: 40 litres

Size: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in

The Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack is a fantastic anti-theft bag for those of you need something large while still using only a carry-on.

At 40L capacity, it’s the maximum sized carry-on you can get, and can be suitable for a 1-week trip or longer.

It combines the organisation features of a suitcase and the compactness of a hiking backpack.

It’s super comfortable to carry, thanks to the sternum and hip straps, soft paddings, and load lifters.

In terms of interior, there are mesh pockets, padded sleeves for a 16-inch laptop and tablet, an organizer panel, and multiple small compartments, making it easy to pack everything.

The zippers are lockable too.

It’s overall a reliable and waterproof backpack made with durable hardware .

My only thing is that it feels bit heavier than most backpacks, but might be worthwhile if you’re going on a longer trip but still want the flexibility of a hiking pack.

For a slightly smaller option, Tortuga also offers the 30L version .

• Large 40L carry-on size
• Comfortable carry with multiple straps and padding
• Durable, waterproof fabric and hardware

Check out our full Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack review here.

5. Skyborne Smart-Pack Plus - Most sleek anti-theft backpack

Weight: 3.2 lbs

Capacity: 30 litres

Size: 14.2" x 19.4" x 9.3"

The Skyborne Smart-Pack Plus has one of the sleekest designs I have ever seen. If you’re looking for something more unique and modern-looking, this might be for you.

It’s also easy to adapt from business to travel!

The fact that its combination lock is on the side of the bag also sets it to a high standard in comparison to other backpacks. This will make it harder for others to get into your backpack.

From the hardware to the design, everything has been designed and crafted with thought to best protect your belongings.

The comfort is amazing and there are a few hidden features and surprises ensuring that your belongings are visible but safe.

Not to mention that it’s waterproof, opens to 90 degrees for easy packing, and includes a liquids’ pouch, USB charging port, and padded tech sleeves!

• Large 30L capacity
• Waterproof ballistic nylon exterior
• Ergonomic straps and comfort
• Hidden pocket for passport

Check out our full Skyborne Smart-Pack Plus here .

6. Alpaka Elements Backpack Pro - Best durable anti-theft backpack

Weight: 1.3kg

Size: 31cm x 48cm x 18cm

The Alpaka Elements Backpack Pro is another sleek laptop backpack that comes with great anti-theft features, such as lockable zippers and a hidden front pocket.

This backpack has a lot to offer in terms of its strength and you can definitely tell the quality of the material.

It’s very similar to the Elements Travel Backpack in terms of style and interior, just with external features and designed for more urban usage.

Inside, you can store a 16-inch laptop in the suspended pocket.

The comfort is also where this bag excels. It features space cell foam padding on the shoulder straps, a contoured back panel, and a magnetic sternum strap.

There’s also a luggage passthrough for when you’re travelling, while the quick-access top pocket makes it easy for you to grab anything you might need quickly.

Not to mention the honeycomb ripstop nylon lining, weatherproof fabrics, and waterproof YKK zippers.

• Lockable zippers and a hidden pocket
• Comfortable to wear
• Honeycomb Ripstop Nylon lining
• Smart internal organization

7. MINICAT Small Travel Crossbody Purse - Best anti-theft travel purse

Weight: 10.41 oz.

Size: 8 x 7 x 1.1 inches

The MINICAT Small Travel Crossbody Purse might be the best anti-theft purse that is affordable, sleek and great at protecting your belongings.

It also makes for a pretty awesome gift for a friend or family member!

In addition to lots of color options, you can choose the “touch screen” variety for a clear window feature that lets you answer calls or check notifications without having to take out your phone from the bag. Just make sure to increase your phone’s touch sensitivity.

The RFID safe compartment features four credit card slots to ensure that you’re protected against unauthorized scanning and identity theft.

The bag itself has three main zipper pockets so you can easily organize different objects. You’ll find specific pen and glass slots, as well as snap-on closure for easy access.

Moreover, the adjustable shoulder strap means you can turn this into a crossbody, shoulder bag, or even a handbag.

• Affordable and stylish travel purse
• Multiple compartments and dedicated slots
• RFID blocking protection

8. XD Design Bobby Urban Cut Proof Bumbag - Best anti-theft bumbag

Weight: 220 g

Capacity: 1 litre

Size: 14" x 6.5" x 2.4"

Bumbags (or fanny packs) are great. They’re small and hands-free, compact, and can be worn in addition to a larger backpack.

This Bobby Urban Cut Proof Bumbag from XD Design is a super functional anti-theft convertible bag with an impressive range of security features.

It looks just like any sleek and modern streetwear while providing a top-notch anti theft design.

It features a cut-resistant fabric material , lockable zipper, 3-points safe buckle, and RFID protection that will prevent identity theft.

But that’s not it! This versatile bag can transform into a crossbody or over-the-shoulder style, which means you can change them day to day to always freshen up the look.

Oh, the Bobby Urban Bumbag is also water-repellent. This means that your phone and important documents can be protected from light rain.

• Cut proof material
• 3 points safe buckle
• RFID blocking pocket 

9. Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Slim Backpack - Most stylish anti-theft backpack

Weight: 1 lb. (includes lock)

Size: 11" x 12.5" x 3"

For the most stylish anti theft backpack you’ll find, the Signature Slim Backpack from Travelon is something you should be adding to your wishlist.

Just as its name suggests, it’s super slim and compact, but can still fit a Microsoft Surface. This bag is also very lightweight but jam packed with excellent features, including a unique light inside that you can use.

There are four stunning colours, but the grey one with a pink interior has to be our personal favorite!

The feminine style of the Signature Slim Backpack is truly elegant. You can easily wear it to the office, for museum-hopping when travelling to a new country, or even to a night out with friends.

In terms of security features, it comes equipped with the signature Travelon technology . From the 5-Point Anti-Theft security system and slash-proof mesh barrier, to a lock-down strap and RFID blocking organizer.

Not to mention that the main compartment features various pockets and hidden zippers to make sure that your valuables are kept safe.

• Organization panel, slip pocket and zippered pocket with RFID blocking
• 5-Point Anti-Theft security system
• Key clip with LED light

10. Baggallini Backpack Purse - Best convertible anti-theft bag

Weight: 1 lb.

Capacity: litres

Size: 12" x 11.5" x 18"

Convertible bags can be your best friend when travelling. Imagine: a single bag that can transform into multiple models and styles!

The Baggallini Backpack Purse is our choice for an anti-theft convertible travel bag. Lightweight, practical, stylish, and safe - everything you need from a bag!

Its convertible design lets you choose between a comfy backpack and a gorgeous satchel, depending on your outfit that day.

Meanwhile, the practical design features locking zippers, RFID blocking protection, and thoughtful pockets in the interior. That makes organizing your items super easy.

The bag itself is also lightweight and made of slash-proof fabric that isn’t bulky at all. The fact that it’s just over a pound in weight also means it’s perfect to take on any day trip.

• Locking zippers
• RFID protection
• Convertible backpack and satchel

11. Inateck 40L Carry-on Travel Backpack - Best anti-theft laptop bag

Size: 21x13x7 inch

The Inateck BP03001 is an excellent laptop backpack for travel , as well as for everyday use.

With an amazing capacity of 40L, this can easily be your carry-on backpack when travelling on airplanes or trips.

It can fit up to a 17-inch laptop and your clothes too! So, if you want to hop on a short trip and use a compact anti-theft bag, this could be it for you.

Inside, you will find two laptop and tablet compartments, two change pockets, a toiletry bag, and a lot of other smaller pockets to organize your stuff. Not to mention a hidden back pocket and two roomy front pockets!

The backpack itself is quite lightweight, considering its capacity and security features. There are also handles on the side and a strap to fix it on your trolley. 

Whether you’re a globetrotter, student, or someone looking for a secure work bag, the Inateck BP03001 is a pretty awesome choice.

The exterior is scratch and splash resistant. Plus, it comes with a rain cover that can ensure your travel laptop remains dry during heavy rain.

Don’t worry about the security too, thanks to the dual zipper design and double lock heads .

• Large 40 L capacity
• Various organizational compartments and hidden pockets
• Secure dual zipper and double locks

12. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 - Great large anti-theft backpack

Weight: 1 lb 14 oz

Capacity: 25 litres

Size: 18.9 x 11.8 x 6.7 in

While a lot of the bags we’ve featured so far are big enough for a laptop or two, if you want something especially large, your best bet is the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 .

While it may not be the 40L that the previous Inateck bag offers, its 25L space is still large enough for all your necessities without being that bulky. Great if you travel with a range of tech like travel drones .

It’s a classic anti-theft travel bag that will keep your valuables safe as you explore hidden gems in a new city… an ideal bag for your next city break.

From cut proof fabric and lockable zippers, to being able to fix your bag to heavy objects, this beast will give you the confidence to travel carefreely.

It also comes with RFID protected pockets for your passport and cards, while the attachment hook inside ensures that your wallets and keys are easy to reach.

We also love the sleek, simple, and nondescript look of this bag, which means it will not attract any attention when you travel.

With multiple internal pockets, a pen loop, and padded sleeve for your laptop, it truly is designed with the modern traveller in mind!

Oh, have we mentioned the water bottle pocket too?

• Lockable zippers and cut proof material
• Super strong anchor strap

13. Oscaurt Travel Backpack

Weight: 2.3 lbs

Size: 11 x 5 x 17 inches

Oscaurt offers a really diverse range of unique designs for their anti-theft bags, which is great if you don’t want something plain and boring.

But that’s not to say that their simple designs are drab, because we absolutely love how elegant and urban they are!

It is made of durable cut and scratch resistant fabric, and features a hidden pocket at the back. This is where you can keep your cash or jewelleries, as they’d be impossible to reach when you’re wearing the back.

Meanwhile, the main pocket itself has hidden zippers that will slow down potential thefts.

We love that it comes with a built-in charging cable and USB port , so you can easily charge your devices while on the go.

In terms of ergonomics, we have to give it to Oscaust for providing adjustable shoulder straps that are wide, padded, and ultra comfortable to wear.

• Hidden main zipper and secret pockets
• Built-in charging cable and USB port
• Very comfortable to wear

14. MarsBro Laptop Backpack

Weight: 1.1 lbs

Size: 18.7 x 12.4 x 7.7 inch

This MarsBro Laptop Backpack is a durable anti-theft backpack perfect for travellers looking for a big enough bag for their laptops.

It can fit a 15.6” laptop in addition to an iPad. There are two special pockets for cameras, making this a potential camera backpack as well. There's also a zippered compartment for your valuables and a specific pocket for a power bank.

What’s quite unique is that this bag features a built-in charging cable and external USB. AND a card pocket on the strap and hidden back pocket.

Pockets and slots that aren’t easily visible are great because they don’t attract the attention of pickpockets.

The design really is all about convenience!

If you worry about comfort when carrying a loaded backpack, this one won’t disappoint. The MarsBro bag features a balanced weight design with breathable back fabric and s-type straps.

Meanwhile, the exterior fabric is water-resistant so you can be sure that your belongings are protected under light rain.

• Ergonomic design
• External USB with cable
• Multiple compartments and pockets

15. XD Design Bobby Backpack Trolley

Weight: 6.3 lbs

Capacity: 24 litres

Size: 11.8 x 14.2 x 1.2"

Here’s another excellent product from XD Design to conclude our list: the Bobby Backpack Trolley .

It is for those of you who want a large anti-theft bag for travel to fit a 17" laptop and much more.

While the 24-liter capacity and 6.3-pound weight mean it’s not as lightweight and compact as the other bags we have mentioned, it doubles as both a trolley and backpack.

It’s convenient and practical if you frequently travel and big enough to include everything in your packing list for hassle-free travel.

In addition to the TSA lock, it also has all the trademark Bobby anti-theft features that you love.

This bag is cut resistant, has RFID protection pockets, water-repellent fabric, and safety strips that illuminate.

Plus, the interior features separate compartments with an easy-access laptop sleeve. These are all made from RPET recyclable materials and have the innovativeAWARE™ tracer and blockchain technology. 

• Convertible trolley and backpack
• TSA lock and RFID blocking
• RPET recyclable materials

Anti-theft bag FAQ

Why do you need an anti-theft bag.

Sure, anti-theft bags can be more costly, but investing in one is definitely a good choice. Thefts nowadays have become more elaborate and creative, and it’s so easy to be a victim without even realizing it.

From slash-proof exteriors to lockable zippers and cut-resistant straps, these bags are designed to slow down and deter thieves and pickpockets. Not to mention RFID blocking that will protect you against identity theft! Trust us, there’s no such thing as being too careful, especially if you are travelling to new places.

What is the best anti-theft bag for travel?

At the end of the day, it all depends on what kind of style you’re looking for. If we had to give one recommendation, it would be the Loctote Flak Sack II . It comes with all the security features you’ll need when travelling like RFID blocking, slash-proof fabric, tough and cut-proof ropes, and patented locking system.

But what truly sets this bag apart is its beautiful drawstring model that is elegant and chic, so that it won’t attract attention as an anti-theft bag.

What is the best anti-theft travel purse?

The MINICAT Small Travel Crossbody Purse has to be the best anti-theft purse for travel. It’s simple yet sleek; durable yet cheap. Its RFID blocking protection can help you avoid identity theft. Meanwhile, the built-in card slots and various compartments make it easy to organize your stuff too!

What is an anti-theft pocket?

In general, an anti-theft pocket in a bag could refer to several different things, though all share one purpose: protect its content from theft. First, the pocket could be concealed from view and is hidden in obscure places inside the bag that is hard for a pickpocket to reach into.

It may also refer to RFID blocking, which is a technology that prevents unauthorized scanning of your credit cards and other identity cards.

Which anti-theft bag are you getting?

There really are so many anti-theft bags for travel out there, each with their own unique features and designs.

Our number one recommendation is the Loctote Flak Sack II as it has everything you need to keep your belongings safe when travelling.

We understand that everyone might have their own preferences, which is why we’ve put together this handy guide for you!

Hopefully, you will find the perfect travel bag that can protect yourself against theft. Good luck!

Interested in more of our gear guides? Check out ...

• Best luxury carry-on brands
• Best eco-friendly sustainable backpacks
• Solgaard backpacks review

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

I Traveled Abroad for 2 Weeks, and These Under-$30 Anti-theft Items Kept My Valuables Secure

Including a portable door lock, versatile backpack, and RFID-blocking wallet.

I have to admit, it’s daunting to travel to a new destination when you’re unfamiliar with the  country or continent. I recently found myself in that exact situation as I prepared for a two-week-long trip to Thailand. But part of my planning process included leveraging my experience as a shopping writer to find top-notch gear to help me travel safely and comfortably. 

My research paid off: I returned home without losing a single item, thanks in part to my street skills and new anti-theft products. The best part? Each item I relied on costs less than $30, and I’d easily use them again for my next international trip. Keep scrolling to add my top travel picks to your Amazon cart starting at just $6.

Apple AirTag

Buy on Amazon

I travel frequently and have been fortunate that an airline has never lost my luggage, but that doesn’t mean the worry hasn’t crossed my mind. For $28, an Apple AirTag provided peace of mind as I traveled from Los Angeles to Bangkok. During my layover in Tokyo, a quick check on the iOS FindMy app assured me that my checked bag made it to the next destination. Now, the Apple AirTag has become my travel companion, and I always pop one into my suitcase or everyday bag and clip one to my keys using this handy AirTag holder . 

Lewis N. Clark RFID Blocking Stash Wallet

I can’t stand rummaging through my personal bag to find my passport, and Lewis N. Clark’s large wallet eliminates this hassle for just $16. Measuring 8 inches by 5 inches, the wallet has a velcro pocket to stash your passport, two side zipper pouches to store cash and small valuables, and a clear card holder to display your driver's license. It also features an adjustable strap that can be worn around your neck or across your body as you move through the airport. I found it very convenient for keeping all my valuables in one place, within reach, and safe. Plus, the lightweight organizer provides RFID protection.

Travelambo Slim RFID Blocking Wallet

Travelambo’s wallet also provides RFID protection by preventing your credit cards’ electromagnetic chips from being scanned by thieves. The 100 percent leather cardholder is slim enough to slip into your pocket or stash in a belt bag. It also has enough space for six cards, cash, and a personal ID. Choose from six colors like blue, black, and khaki, and add the minimalist wallet to your cart for as little as $7.

Cheruty Anti-Theft Backpack

Our team named Cheruty’s bag as the best mini anti-theft backpack for a reason. What sets it apart is its main compartment, which is only accessible by unzipping the pouch on the back of the bag. I used the backpack every day in Bangkok, and I appreciated that the interior was spacious enough to accommodate large items like a 14-inch laptop and a reusable water bottle. It also comes with a removable, adjustable strap, so you can wear it as a shoulder bag or crossbody bag. Shop the vegan leather style in 27 colors. 

Kfxfenq Crossbody Sling Bag

On the days I wanted to carry less, I opted for this crossbody sling bag . Made from faux leather, it features an adjustable, embroidered strap that is not only stylish but also thick and sturdy enough that it doesn’t add stress to your shoulder. The sling bag has a button-closure compartment that’s slim enough to hold hand sanitizer and sunscreen, and a larger zipper compartment ideal for storing a phone, wallet, and keys. 

Lgooiin Zipper Pulls

For additional security, consider buying zipper pulls. I bought Lgooiin’s pack of 10 for just $6, and I rely on them to clip a compartment’s two zippers together by the holes at the end, ensuring my bags are as difficult as possible to pickpocket. They also double as replacements for broken zippers. 

Rerishom Portable Door Lock

Getting a good night’s sleep in an unfamiliar place can be tough, especially if you’re an anxious traveler like I am. For peace of mind, I bring along Rerishom’s Portable Door Lock to provide extra security at night. Installing it is a breeze: Simply insert the handle into the door slot, close the door, and lock it into position. With the lock in place, no one can break into your room — even with a key. 

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Anti-Theft Metro Bags

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

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: August 20, 2022

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Metro Stations in the World

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

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

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

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

How Many Metro Stations are in Moscow?

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

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

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

How Deep is the Moscow Subway?

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

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

Get a Moscow Metro Map

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

Moscow Metro Map:

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

Moscow Metro App:

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

Why Are the Moscow Metro Stations So Beautiful?

Stalin’s vision for the moscow metro.

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

Moscow Metro Art and Design

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

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

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

Moscow Metro History

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

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

How to Use the Moscow Metro System

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

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

Navigating the Moscow Metro. Travelling from Station to Station

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

Listen to the Voice on the Annnouncement

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

Signage in the Metro

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

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

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

Exiting the Metro

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avoid Rush Hour

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

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

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

Safety on the Moscow Metro Watch Your Belongings

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

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

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

Moscow Metro Tickets

Ticket cost.

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

Purchasing Tickets

You can purchase metro tickets in two basic ways:

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

Guided Metro Tours in the Moscow Metro

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

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

Recommended Moscow Metro Tours

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

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

15 of the Best Moscow Metro Stations to visit.

A metro station for all tastes.

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

Mayakovskaya Station Line 2 Green

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

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

Teatralnaya Station Line 2 Green

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

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

Novokuznetskaya Station Line 2 Green

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

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

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

Ploshchad Revolyutsii Station (Revolution Square) Line 3 Blue

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

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

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

Elektrozavodskaya Metro Station Line 3 Blue

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

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

Arbatskaya Station Line 3 Blue

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

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

Park Pobedy Line 3 Blue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Slavyansky Bulvar Station   Line 3 Blue

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

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

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

Taganskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Komsomolskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

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

Prospect Mira Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

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

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

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

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

Novoslobodskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

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

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

Kievskaya Station Line 5 Brown (Circle Line)

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

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

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

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

Aviamotornaya Station Line 8 Yellow

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

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

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

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

Dostoyevskaya Station (Dostoevsky) Line 10 Light Green

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

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

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

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

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

More Moscow Metro Stations Worth Visiting

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

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

The Future of the Moscow Metro

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

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

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Sling Backpack for Men Crossbody Shoulder Bags Waterproof Sling Chest Bag with USB Port

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Product details, about this item.

• TSA Approved Anti Theft Lock: The sling bag is equipped with a smart secure lock that is made of high strength zinc alloy with a solid, compact body to prevent theft and well safeguard all your valuables securely. As well the back hidden pocket can store your wallet, phone and other valuables.
• Multiple Pockets & Organized: Sling bag for men has tons of pockets making your items organized and easier to find. One separate padded compartment can hold 10.5 inch tablet. One spacious compartment roomy for your books, clothes, power bank, travel accessories and tech electronic accessories. Three zippered pocket in the front of the sling backpack for easy access essentials. Two side pockets for your power bank and more your items.
• USB Charging Port: The shoulder bag comes with a charging port you can link your phone to and easily charge during outdoors and travel. Place your power bank inside the bag and connect your phone to the outer port (built-in charging cable inside). Please note that this sling bag doesn't power itself, usb charging port only provides easy access to charge.
• Comfortable Back Support System: Mens sling bag with 3D honeycomb breathable back cushion can reduce the sultry feeling of the back. Adjustable shoulder belts with thickening breathable mesh sponges are shake-resistant, and relieve the pressure on your shoulders.
• Water-Resistant Material & Best Gift Choice: This shoulder bag is made of Water Resistant and Durable Polyester Fabric with top-quality zippers. Sling Backpack can serve you well as office work bag, perfect for traveling, outdoor activities in daily life. Good Gift for father/ friend.

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Product Description

Sling bag for men sling backpack crossbody shoulder bags for work travel hiking outdoors.

BASIC INFORMATION

• Dimension: 8.2*4.7 *13.7 inch ( L * W * H ); fits up to 9.7 ” tablet; Weight: 1.5 LBS.
• Material: High-density Oxford Fabric, Waterproof and Wear-resistant.
• Adjustable Strap length: 25 inch to 49 inch

GREAT GIFT CHOICE

• Practical gifts ideas for men and women as Valentine's Day Gifts/Anniversary gifts.
• Special day gift for him or her, for your husband / wife / lover / son / daughter / father/mother/friends as Thanks giving Day gifts, Christmas gifts, Birthday gifts for men women.
• As Everyday sling pack, Work bag, office bag, business shoulder bag for men women adult or daily use at anywhere.

How does the Sing Backpack with multi functional pockets make the the stuffs organised ?

• 1 * Padded Tablet Compartment:, shockproof padded compartment fits up to 9.7 inch IPAD
• 2 * Main Compartment: served as a weekend getaway, occasional travel, overnight trip backpack
• 3 * Front Zippered pockets for easy access to your stuff
• 2 * Side Zippered pockets for your compact umbrella and Water bottle
• 1 * back zipper anti-theft pocket for your significant items
• 1 * Exterior USB port

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Looking for specific info?

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.5 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ GRGH
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ March 1, 2020
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ TUCUXY
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08DR35S7Z
• #644 in Casual Daypack Backpacks

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the durability, size, space, and appearance of the backpack. For example, they mention it's well-made, has plenty of pockets, and can hold a good amount of gear. Some appreciate comfort, portability, and value.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the durability of the backpack. They say it's well-made, holds up nicely, and doesn't feel cheap or have funny smells. Some customers also mention that the quality is better than expected.

"...The material is durable - that tougher backpack fill; it also had good back packing and strap. Nice!" Read more

"I just received this bag and am very impressed with the quality , especially for the price. It looks very nice too...." Read more

"...sling bags for the value The bag has plenty of room and made of good quality materials and the exterior design honestly looks better than designer..." Read more

"...’s your extra stuff well, I’m just adding to this review, it is holding up nicely so far it does get a lot of use from me from bus Travel and work I..." Read more

Customers like the size of the backpack. For example, they mention it's a perfect size, fits everything they need to carry, and is slim with a lot of room. Some say the materials feel cheap and plastic like. That said, most are happy with the size and design of the bag.

"...It's just right with several compartments - large and small . The main compartment is big enough for my iPad Pro with space left over...." Read more

"...It looks very nice too. The listed dimensions are accurate ...." Read more

" Great size and design but some of the materials feel cheap/ plastic like faux leather and I really wish that the slogan would have been left off...." Read more

"...So they're really only for organization, not extra storage space .Conclusion...." Read more

Customers like the space in the backpack. They say it has plenty of pockets and compartments for small items. They also say it can hold a good amount of gear, is versatile, and has good storage. Some mention that the bag is handy for carrying several items with them.

"...The other compartments are great for medium /smaller items -- earphones, ear bugs, water, snacks, Kindle, phone, etc...." Read more

"...It has a lot of pockets to keep everything organized as well. I'm excited to try this bag out during my 4 flights next month...." Read more

"This is easily one of the best sling bags for the value The bag has plenty of room and made of good quality materials and the exterior design..." Read more

" Great bag love all the pockets ! But was zipping it up and a plastic zipper tail thing broke right off 😔 but still love this bag ...." Read more

Customers have good things to say about the backpack. For example, they say it's a good product, it has a perfect design, and it'll work well for running errands. Customers also appreciate the lock and pockets.

"I like the lock and pockets. Great for personal items during trips short and long." Read more

" This bag was absolutely perfect . I highly recommend it. The quality is better than I expected. It is the exact size I was looking for...." Read more

"...the bag is also made of a rugged, durable material. This is a perfect sling bag . Thank for an excelent design." Read more

"...All good. Good man purse for running errands and taking to work...." Read more

Customers like the appearance of the backpack. They say it looks good, is nice, and has a good design. Some mention that the price is right and has great looking space for all their travel needs.

"...It looks very nice too. The listed dimensions are accurate...." Read more

"...of room and made of good quality materials and the exterior design honestly looks better than designer bags three times its value" Read more

"... GREAT LOOKING SPACE FOR ALL YOUR TRAVEL NEED YOU USUALLY CARRY ON HAND, PHONE SPACE ETC ETC. MADE GREAT LOOKS GREAT PRICE IS RIGHT! AG" Read more

"Pros:+ Overall good looking backpack + The ability to un-clip the strap+ The key rign loop is a nice touch..." Read more

Customers find the backpack very comfortable and useful. They also appreciate the soft material, smooth zippers, and the way it feels and looks.

"... Strap is comfortable with a lot of adjustmentFabric and zippers are decent for the price.Neutrals..." Read more

"I like the way it feels and looks , its waterproof. The handle is too small, dainty. Double the size of the handle...." Read more

"...So with all that weight the strap really feels comfortable , I'm really happy with the bag and it's storage capacity I think I can fill it up but I wo..." Read more

"...the bag seems well made and the material they used inside is nice and soft ...." Read more

Customers like the portability of the backpack. For example, they say it's perfect for traveling, easy to carry, and sturdy. Some mention it'll be ideal for carrying personal items anywhere that you go, with room for everything and easy access. The combination lock is airport friendly and easy enough to put in and take out.

"...a 1/4 inch to spare, but that's fine with me, still easy enough to put in and take out ...." Read more

"...It’s good for carrying personal need items , and if a commuter?..." Read more

" Excellent products for travel anywhere " Read more

"...ALOT OF ZIPERED COMPARTMENTS , GREAT COMBINATION LOCK THATS AIRPORT FRIENDLY , IT HAS A LITTLE TSA AIR PORT KEY HOLE SO ITS ALOWES ON THE..." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the backpack. They mention that it's a great product with a good price.

"...Strap is comfortable with a lot of adjustment Fabric and zippers are decent for the price .Neutrals..." Read more

" Great product good price " Read more

"...The price was also very good too." Read more

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