The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (2024)

Table of Contents
The Best Travel Purses for 2024 Best Shoulder Bag for Travel Most Organized Travel Purse Best Crossbody Travel Purse Best Belt Bag for Travel Best Tote for Long-Distance Travel Best Travel Purse for Work Trips Most Versatile Travel Purse Best Neutral Travel Purse Best Large Travel Purse Best Travel Purse with an Adjustable Strap YSL Bea Textured-Leather Tote YSL Bea Textured-Leather Tote ANYA HINDMARCH In-Flight Leather and Suede-Trimmed Tote ANYA HINDMARCH In-Flight Leather and Suede-Trimmed Tote Reformation Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag Reformation Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag Proenza Schouler Stanton Leather Belt Bag Proenza Schouler Stanton Leather Belt Bag Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Nylon Shoulder Tote Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Nylon Shoulder Tote Madewell The Zip Top Medium Transport Leather Tote Madewell The Zip Top Medium Transport Leather Tote Chloé Marcie Medium Textured-Leather Tote Chloé Marcie Medium Textured-Leather Tote St. Agni Soft Crescent Bag St. Agni Soft Crescent Bag THE ROW Camdem Leather Tote THE ROW Camdem Leather Tote Isabel Marant Nessah Bag Isabel Marant Nessah Bag Prada Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag Prada Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag Mansur Gavriel Small Zip Tote Mansur Gavriel Small Zip Tote Acne Studios Embossed Faux Patent-Leather Tote Acne Studios Embossed Faux Patent-Leather Tote BOTTEGA VENETA Hop Large Intrecciato Leather Tote BOTTEGA VENETA Hop Large Intrecciato Leather Tote Why trust Harper's Bazaar? Why trust Harper's Bazaar? FAQs References

As someone who is constantly on the move, I’m well versed in the best travel purses. Whether I’m taking regular trips back home to Washington, D.C., or flying across the country to visit my brother in Los Angeles, I've never left the house without a purse draped across my shoulder.

My favorite travel purses have stayed firmly by my side (and kept my belongings organized) as I’ve traversed through train stations and airport terminals. I’ve also opted for equally functional crossbody bags and belt bags. Organization and utility are the two common threads in every bag I carry—and the same principle applies for Shopbop fashion director Caroline Maguire. For a long-lasting travel companion, Maguire says the straps are just as important as the compartment. “A long shoulder strap is the way to go because when you’re traveling, you always want to be hands-free,” she advises. The expert also suggests keeping a close eye on materials—leather, nylon, and canvas are durable fabrics that will withstand many trips to come.

Size is a matter of personal preference: You may seek out a small purse if you're packing light, or a medium crossbody if you're taking in sights with a guidebook in tow. However, I will say that big bags have been dominating trend cycles. Just take a look at recent fashion shows, such as Balenciaga’s Fall 2024 spectacle in L.A. which featured a sea of sizable shoulder bags, leather totes, and crossbody bags to tote everything you could possibly need on vacation.

No matter where you're headed or how much you plan to carry, embark on your upcoming journey in style with the 14 best travel purses ahead.

The Best Travel Purses for 2024

Best Shoulder Bag for Travel

YSL Bea Textured-Leather Tote

The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (11)

Best Shoulder Bag for Travel

YSL Bea Textured-Leather Tote

The supple leather of Saint Laurent's Bea tote will feel so comfortable resting on your shoulders. The handles' broad width will also reduce pressure, so carrying heavier items like your water bottle or tablet in transit won’t cause a problem.

Dimensions: 11"H x 19.3"W x 5.5"D.

Material: Leather

Color: Black

Most Organized Travel Purse

ANYA HINDMARCH In-Flight Leather and Suede-Trimmed Tote

The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (13)

Most Organized Travel Purse

ANYA HINDMARCH In-Flight Leather and Suede-Trimmed Tote

Pros
  • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (14)Great storage space
Cons

    Misplacing your belongings can gravely impact any adventure. (I've lost several essentials in the past because I’ve relied on jacket pockets and non-closure bags to carry my precious belongings.) Instead, invest in a bag like Anya Hindmarch’s In-Flight tote to organize all your must-haves. This suede-trimmed design is equipped with countless compartments that will house every kind of essential, small or large.

    Dimensions: 10.2"H x 15.4"W x 9.8"D.

    Material: Canvas, leather, suede

    Colors: Brown, multicolored

    Best Crossbody Travel Purse

    Reformation Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag

    The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (15)

    Best Crossbody Travel Purse

    Reformation Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag

    Pros
    • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (16)Crossbody shape for a hands-free experience
    Cons

      Attempting to carry a handbag while juggling heavy luggage can be a cumbersome experience. That’s why Maguire likes to sling Reformation’s Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag over her shoulder. “The black colorway will go with everything in your closet,” Maguire notes—whether you're traveling far or spending another day in your home town.

      Dimensions: 9.75"H x 11.75"L x 4"D

      Material: Leather, suede

      Color: Black

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      Best Belt Bag for Travel

      Proenza Schouler Stanton Leather Belt Bag

      The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (17)

      Best Belt Bag for Travel

      Proenza Schouler Stanton Leather Belt Bag

      Pros
      • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (18)Features a handy belt bag design
      Cons

        For those who pack lightly, you’ll simply need an uncomplicated belt bag to wear around your waist. Turn to Proenza Schouler's Stanton bag, which features a stud-fastening belt and a twill lined interior. If you would rather wear this accessory as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag, just adjust the belt size to your desired length.

        Dimensions: 7.7"H x 16.9"W x 4.5"D.

        Material: Leather

        Colors: White, black

        Best Tote for Long-Distance Travel

        Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Nylon Shoulder Tote

        The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (19)

        Best Tote for Long-Distance Travel

        Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Nylon Shoulder Tote

        Pros
        • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (20)Features a spacious design
        Cons

          Those who have traveled with me know my go-to purse is Longchamp’s Le Pliage tote. As a self-proclaimed carrier of big bags, I’m not ashamed to say that my list of essentials is lengthy. This tote effortlessly stores my phone, wallet, laptop, and favorite book— along with a host of other items that many would call unnecessary on the road.

          What reviewers are saying: “This is the perfect daily bag that can hold all of your essentials. The bag is very lightweight and has an inside pocket to hold small items. No need to hold a bottle of water in your hand or an umbrella. This bag is deep enough to hold all your key items for the day without being too heavy.”

          Dimensions: 11.75"H x 12.25"W x 7.5"D.

          Material: Nylon, leather

          Colors: Brown, black, navy, red, pink, blue, green, gray, dark green, orange

          Best Travel Purse for Work Trips

          Madewell The Zip Top Medium Transport Leather Tote

          The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (21)

          Best Travel Purse for Work Trips

          Madewell The Zip Top Medium Transport Leather Tote

          Pros
          • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (22)Large enough to fit a laptop
          Cons

            If you’re traveling for work, chances are you’re constantly answering emails and completing last-minute tasks in transit. For this reason, it’s wise to invest in a durable leather bag that’s large enough to fit your laptop. Madewell’s Essential Tote is a crowd favorite, and with a secure zip closure, firm handles, and even a cup holder, we understand why.

            Dimensions: 12"H x 11"W x 6"D.

            Material: Leather

            Colors: Brown, black, green

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            Most Versatile Travel Purse

            Chloé Marcie Medium Textured-Leather Tote

            The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (23)

            Most Versatile Travel Purse

            Chloé Marcie Medium Textured-Leather Tote

            Pros
            • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (24)Great for transitioning from day to night
            Cons

              Some of us like to pack several bags in our suitcases. But if options tend to overwhelm you, and you’d rather just take one purse that will get the job done, Chloé’s best-selling Marcie bag is up for the task. Use the detachable shoulder strap while traveling, and when you reach your destination, carry it by the handles.

              Dimensions: 9"H x 13.8"W x 4.3"D.

              Material: Leather

              Color: Black

              Best Neutral Travel Purse

              St. Agni Soft Crescent Bag

              The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (25)

              Best Neutral Travel Purse

              St. Agni Soft Crescent Bag

              Pros
              • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (26)Versatile shade and crossbody design for easy styling
              Cons

                “This fanny pack from St. Agni is the perfect size, and I love the color,” says Maguire. The neutral hue of this crescent shaped accessory makes it a great everyday bag no matter what you're packing. If you’re brainstorming your next travel outfit, consider pairing this piece with a gray crew neck, black leggings, and chunky sneakers.

                Dimensions: 5.5"H x 11.5"L x 4"D.

                Material: Leather

                Color: Ecru

                Best Large Travel Purse

                THE ROW Camdem Leather Tote

                The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (27)

                Best Large Travel Purse

                THE ROW Camdem Leather Tote

                Pros
                • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (28)Very spacious
                Cons

                  Gargantuan? Not quite. Spacious? Most certainly. With a width of over 1 foot, The Row’s Camdem tote is especially fitting for heavy packers. However, despite its large size, there’s no need to worry about losing your smaller items within this purse. The internal zip pocket will keep your tiny things within reach.

                  Dimensions: 9.1"H x 12.6"W x 49.2"D.

                  Material: Leather

                  Color: Black

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                  Best Travel Purse with an Adjustable Strap

                  Isabel Marant Nessah Bag

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                  Best Travel Purse with an Adjustable Strap

                  Isabel Marant Nessah Bag

                  Pros
                  • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (30)Functional details including adjustable strap and small exterior pocket
                  Cons

                    The warm burgundy shade is what initially caught my eye, but what really drew me in was the smooth adjustable strap. I might have to indulge in this Isabel Marant piece for my next trip out to L.A.

                    Dimensions: 7"H x 11"W x 2"D.

                    Material: Leather

                    Color: Burgundy

                    Best Nylon Travel Purse

                    Prada Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag

                    The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (31)

                    Best Nylon Travel Purse

                    Prada Re-Nylon Shoulder Bag

                    Pros
                    • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (32)Designed with a durable fabric
                    Cons

                      Prada’s shoulder bag is designed with recycled nylon, but that in no way takes away from its elevated, carry-everywhere aesthetic. The minimalist silhouette and silver hardware are sleek and lightweight for city travels. The removable pouch is a nice (and useful) touch.

                      Dimensions: 9.4"H x 11.6"W x 3.5"D.

                      Material: Recycled nylon

                      Color: Black

                      Best Colorful Travel Purse

                      Mansur Gavriel Small Zip Tote

                      The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (33)

                      Best Colorful Travel Purse

                      Mansur Gavriel Small Zip Tote

                      Pros
                      • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (34)Comes in a variety of stunning shades
                      Cons

                        Mansur Gavriel's zip tote is made with gorgeous saffiano leather and decorated with a pastel pink hue that is beyond charming. The dimensions are just large enough to carry travel necessities like a passport holder, snacks, and a guidebook without weighing you down. With seven other shades to choose from, perhaps you might even consider purchasing more than one.

                        Dimensions: 10"H x 12.5"W x 4"D.

                        Material: Leather

                        Colors: Cream, beige, blue, pink, red, burgundy, green, multicolored

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                        Best Patent Leather Travel Purse

                        Acne Studios Embossed Faux Patent-Leather Tote

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                        Best Patent Leather Travel Purse

                        Acne Studios Embossed Faux Patent-Leather Tote

                        Pros
                        • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (36)Features a gorgeous glossy finish
                        Cons

                          A glossy finish like this is truly hard to resist. Acne Studios’ tote has convinced me that traveling with a patent leather purse will make my next city vacation experience that much better.

                          Dimensions: 13.8"H x 18.1"W x 6.3"D.

                          Material: Patent leather

                          Color: Black

                          Best Slouchy Travel Purse

                          BOTTEGA VENETA Hop Large Intrecciato Leather Tote

                          The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (37)

                          Best Slouchy Travel Purse

                          BOTTEGA VENETA Hop Large Intrecciato Leather Tote

                          Pros
                          • The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (38)The slouchy shape makes this bag very supple
                          Cons

                            The fashion industry’s obsession with slouchy silhouettes isn’t fading anytime soon. Take part in the excitement with Bottega’s iconic tote, woven with the brand’s signature intrecciato technique that’s noticeable wherever you're headed this year.

                            Dimensions: 14.2"H x 22.4"W x 4.3"D.

                            Material: Leather

                            Colors: Brown, white, blue

                            Why trust Harper's Bazaar?

                            The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (39)

                            For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

                            The 14 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Adventure (2024)

                            FAQs

                            What is the safest type of purse to travel with? ›

                            Instead, get a regular purse that fits the following criteria: Crossbody strap. You should be able to put the strap over one shoulder and let it hang over the opposite side. This makes it more difficult for a would-be mugger to grab it off your arm.

                            What should I look for in a travel purse? ›

                            You should look for a bag that has multiple pockets and compartments, as well as safety features that make it hard for pickpockets (like RFID anti-theft technology). Then, think about the material. After resting it on the airport or airplane floor, you will want something that's easy to clean.

                            What kind of purse do you need for travel? ›

                            Tips for Buying a Travel Purse

                            Crossbody, sling, and shoulder bags are best for storing just the essentials like phones, credit cards, earbuds, or a small wallet.

                            What is the largest bag to fit under a plane seat? ›

                            According to airline policy, any personal items stowed beneath seats should not exceed 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches.

                            What size purse can you carry-on TSA? ›

                            Your personal item like a purse or small handbag must fit under the seat in front of you. Dimensions should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).

                            What is the best bag to avoid pickpockets? ›

                            Anti-theft travel belt bags and sling bags
                            • Editor Favorite. ...
                            • Travelon Urban Anti-Theft Messenger Bag. ...
                            • Pacsafe StyleSafe Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag. ...
                            • Pacsafe CitySafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack. ...
                            • Peak Design Everyday Backpack. ...
                            • Travelon Signature Anti-Theft Slim Backpack. ...
                            • Lewis N. ...
                            • Away Everywhere Zip Backpack. Away.
                            Sep 15, 2023

                            What kind of bag to bring to Europe? ›

                            Look for a rolling bag that's as roomy and sturdy as possible while still being small and light enough to lift and fit in a plane's overhead bin. Plenty of wheeled bags are well-designed for a typical European trip — most of my staffers prefer to roll with one.

                            What colors are best for travel bags? ›

                            Dengler approaches it from a different perspective: “The key is to set your luggage apart from the rest.” The travel pro recommends opting for colors like beige, light blue, light red, light pink, light green, and white, which will instantly catch the eye.

                            How can you tell if a purse is high quality? ›

                            Look for heavy leather, smooth zippers, and pristine lining are all to be expected. In general, designer purses will be of the highest quality. Check for a bag's code. A lot of the time, purses will also have a unique code printed on the purse, which can be checked online with code checkers.

                            How much should I spend on a travel bag? ›

                            For a basic, functional duffel bag or backpack, you can expect to spend between $20 to $50. These types of bags may be made from less expensive materials and may not have as many features or compartments as more expensive options. Mid-range traveling bags can cost between $50 to $150.

                            Can you take a purse backpack and carry-on on a plane? ›

                            Most airlines allow passengers to bring on both a carry-on and a personal item like a backpack, laptop bag, purse, briefcase, shopping bag, etc. The general rule of thumb is that your personal item is smaller in dimension than your carry-on bag and it can fit underneath the seat in front of you.

                            Can I bring a backpack instead of a purse on a plane? ›

                            So, yes, if your backpack is small enough that you can fit it under the seat in front of you, then it's a personal item. This designation becomes especially important when you're flying on a low-cost carrier or have booked a basic economy ticket on a larger airline.

                            Is a backpack considered a purse on a plane? ›

                            In general, your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on and under the specific airline's carry-on dimensions, allowing it to fit under the seat in front of you. In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.

                            Can I take my purse and a carry-on on a plane? ›

                            Most airlines allow passengers to bring on both a carry-on and a personal item like a backpack, laptop bag, purse, briefcase, shopping bag, etc. The general rule of thumb is that your personal item is smaller in dimension than your carry-on bag and it can fit underneath the seat in front of you.

                            What is the rule for handbag in flight? ›

                            The briefcase may not exceed 45 by 35 by 20 cm; the handbag may not exceed 55 by 38 by 22 cm; the garment bag can be no more than 20 cm thick when folded.

                            Can I take a handbag as well as a carry bag on plane? ›

                            In most cases, an airline will allow you to bring one carry-on baggage and one personal item. A personal item is normally something like a purse, laptop, backpack or camera case. Personal items should always be small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

                            Can I bring a purse and a carry-on for free? ›

                            Many airlines will allow you to bring a carry-on bag and personal item for free. However, some airlines may only allow a personal item that fits under your seat for free. Anything larger (e.g. a bag that's too big to fit under the seat but can fit into the overhead compartment) may require extra payment.

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