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Choosing the right travel purse is a question every traveler ponders, especially when venturing into new territories. How do you effectively safeguard your essentials while navigating bustling city streets or tranquil landscapes? It’s a valid concern, as securing your belongings is paramount to enjoying a worry-free travel experience.
The answer is a resounding YES – you absolutely should bring a purse on your travels!
Just as a purse is an indispensable part of daily life at home, it holds equal importance, if not more, when you’re on the move. A travel purse isn’t merely an accessory; it’s your portable command center. It functions as your personal item on flights, your wallet for everyday transactions, and your constant companion, keeping your valuables secure and accessible wherever your adventures take you.
Imagine yourself on a thrilling safari in South Africa – your purse is right there with you. Picture cruising through the vibrant landscapes of Southeast Asia on a motorbike – your purse is securely slung across your body. Or envision yourself exploring the charming streets of Paris, the dynamic cityscapes of Tokyo, or the breathtaking vistas of Ushuaia – your purse remains a steadfast presence by your side.
Of course, the question of safety inevitably arises: What if it gets stolen? What if a thief slashes it? What about pickpockets?
These are legitimate concerns, but they are significantly mitigated when you employ common sense and maintain vigilance over your belongings. Remember, thieves are opportunistic; they target those who present easy opportunities. By being proactive and choosing the right travel purse, you can significantly reduce your risk.
I learned this lesson firsthand, and not without a bit of misfortune. Back in 2008, in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, my wallet was pilfered straight from my purse. The culprit? My own naiveté in choosing the wrong bag – a large, open-topped H&M purse that practically screamed “easy target.” It was a stark awakening to the importance of a secure travel purse.
My education in travel purse wisdom truly began during my semester abroad in Florence. Initially, I thought my trusty sky-blue messenger bag would suffice. With its numerous pockets, it seemed “perfect for travel.”
I couldn’t have been more wrong. It was a travel purse disaster.
Beyond its impracticality, it was undeniably unfashionable, especially in Florence, arguably one of the most stylish cities globally. It wasn’t long before I realized my sartorial faux pas and sought out a replacement that wouldn’t elicit disdainful glances from the effortlessly chic Italians.
Many believe that travel necessitates specialized gear. However, unless you’re embarking on activities like hiking or extreme sports, most travel doesn’t demand a radical departure from your everyday lifestyle. The majority of your regular wardrobe and accessories are perfectly suitable for travel.
Let’s delve into what truly constitutes the Best Travel Purse, ensuring you’re both secure and stylish on your journeys!
This post was most recently updated in May 2024.
A woman wearing a money belt and pulling out her euros and passport.
Alt text: Traveler demonstrating how to access money and passport from a hidden money belt, highlighting its inconvenience for regular use.
Money Belts: Not the Best Travel Purse Solution for Everyday Use
While money belts are frequently discussed as a travel security measure, I’m not an advocate for their everyday practicality and don’t consider them essential for most travel scenarios. Whether I’m navigating the streets of Copenhagen or relaxing on a Nicaraguan island, the thought of using a money belt for daily transactions, involving reaching under my clothes every time I want to purchase something, is far from appealing.
Money belts serve a specific purpose: safeguarding your most critical items – passport, essential documents, confirmations, and IDs – primarily during transit or in high-risk situations. They are not designed for accessing your cash or cards multiple times a day.
Personally, I find a scarf with a hidden pocket to be a superior alternative. It offers the same security as a money belt but with greater convenience, enhanced style, and without drawing unwanted attention from potential thieves. Scarves are simply not a target for pickpockets.
We’ll explore these ingenious scarves further below, but first, let’s focus on the characteristics of an ideal travel handbag.
Key Features of the Best Travel Purse
The market is flooded with “anti-theft” purses, exemplified by brands like Travelon, often boasting features such as anti-slash mesh and concealed pockets. While these specialized bags offer enhanced security, investing in a dedicated “anti-theft” purse isn’t always necessary to ensure peace of mind. You can achieve excellent security with a well-chosen regular purse by prioritizing certain key features.
Instead of focusing solely on specialized anti-theft brands, consider these essential criteria when selecting your best travel purse:
Crossbody Strap: This is non-negotiable. A crossbody strap, worn diagonally across your body, significantly deters bag snatchers compared to a simple shoulder strap. An adjustable strap provides added versatility and comfort.
Manageable Size: Opt for a purse size that allows you to easily maintain control. Ideally, you should be able to quickly bring your hand down to cover the main opening of your bag, adding a physical barrier against opportunistic thieves.
Durable, Slash-Resistant Fabric: Material matters. Leather or high-quality faux leather are excellent choices. While no fabric is completely slash-proof, thicker, more robust materials like leather present a significant challenge to would-be slashers compared to flimsy cotton or nylon.
Zipper Closures: Zippers are paramount for security. Avoid purses with snaps, magnetic closures, or partially open designs. Zippers provide a secure closure, preventing easy access for wandering hands.
Discreet Branding: Subtlety is key. Minimize visible branding, especially of well-known mid-range or luxury brands. Interestingly, some flashy mid-range brands like Michael Kors or Kate Spade can sometimes attract more attention than understated luxury brands like Loewe or Celine, as they are often perceived as status symbols.
Easy Access for You, Difficult for Thieves: Strike a balance between security and convenience. Your purse should be easy for you to access your belongings but challenging for anyone else. A top zipper or a foldover flap design often provides this ideal combination.
Beyond these core features, consider additional security enhancements. RFID-blocking pockets are often touted as essential, designed to prevent electronic theft of credit card information. However, an RFID-blocking wallet offers a more focused and effective approach to protecting your cards, rather than relying solely on purse pockets.
(In the image above, I’m carrying a Marc Jacobs Tote Bag in cherry red, a favorite for everyday use at home. However, its prominent branding makes it less ideal for travel. Paired with a Sézane top, Sézane trousers, vintage Miu Miu aviator sunglasses, and Sézane sneakers – the same sneakers I wore on my wedding day!)
Remember, your best travel purse doesn’t need to be extravagantly expensive, but prioritizing reasonable quality ensures durability and longevity.
Explore a selection of affordable purses on Amazon that meet these essential criteria.
Alt text: Enthusiastic blogger posing with a group of female readers from the Philippines, expressing gratitude and connection with her audience.
Top Travel Purses Under $50: Affordable and Secure Options
During my travels in Busan, South Korea, I stumbled upon what became my quintessential travel purse: a stylish black faux leather Alexander McQueen-inspired crossbody, adorned with studs and metal skulls. This chic yet edgy purse, measuring approximately 12 x 5 inches (30 x 13 cm), was a steal at around $30.
Despite enduring considerable wear and tear on numerous adventures, it remained a reliable companion. Even when one of the straps detached, a quick visit to a skilled seamstress in Bangkok restored it to perfect condition, reinforcing both straps for added durability.
This trusty purse served me well for about a year of constant use. Since then, I’ve transitioned to investing in higher-quality purses, but that Busan find proved that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a great travel purse.
If you’re seeking an affordable travel purse reminiscent of my Busan discovery, here are excellent options under $50 that combine security and style:
The Covelin Crossbody Purse in black faux leather is a fantastic budget-friendly choice. Its sleek black design, faux leather material, and adjustable crossbody strap tick all the boxes for a secure travel purse. The subtle angular zipper details add a touch of visual interest.
A black Lululemon belt bag. The Lululemon Belt Bag has garnered immense popularity, and rightfully so. While crafted from nylon rather than leather, it offers a casual yet highly secure option that can be kept close to your body at all times.
Its versatility extends beyond travel; it’s equally ideal for athletic activities (unsurprisingly, given Lululemon’s yoga-centric origins). It can be worn traditionally as a fanny pack (or “bum bag” in British English, a crucial distinction!), or slung stylishly across your chest. Its water-resistant properties are an added bonus.
This bag is available in various sizes. For travel, the 2-liter size strikes the perfect balance, though the 1-liter size and mini size are also options. For concert-goers in the US, there’s even a clear belt bag option. A wide array of colors ensures there’s a Lululemon Belt Bag to suit every style.
The Lola Mae Black Crossbody Bag is another highly favored travel purse under $50. The chic chevron detailing on the faux leather and the playful tassel add a touch of sophistication to this affordable and practical option.
The Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag is a cheerful and budget-friendly choice frequently seen on travelers. Its crossbody strap and zippered top provide essential security, while the nylon construction and diverse color options enhance its practicality. A smaller size is also available.
While perhaps less suited for ultra-chic destinations like Paris or Italy, it’s an excellent all-around option for active trips, extended travels, or more casual outings.
The Mundi Crossbody Purse offers an additional layer of security with built-in RFID protection. Its foldover style further enhances security by keeping your belongings snugly contained and making it more challenging for pickpockets.
Discover more affordable crossbody purses here.
A woman wearing a black leather crossbody bag.
Alt text: Stylish traveler showcasing a black leather crossbody bag, emphasizing its versatility and security for urban exploration.
Best Travel Purses Under $300: Investing in Quality and Style
Upon relocating to New York City in 2016, I invested in a $220 Christophe Kon purse that proved to be a long-lasting and worthwhile purchase. This black leather crossbody, featuring a secure zipper and an elegant intrecciato woven design inspired by Bottega Veneta, became my everyday essential.
At the time, it was the most significant purse investment I had made. However, considering I used it daily for years, its cost per wear became incredibly low – likely around 15 cents! For me, anything under $1 per wear is a resounding win.
I firmly believe that excellent leather travel purses are readily available in the $100-$300 range, both at retail and on the pre-loved market.
Why prioritize leather? Simply put, leather surpasses faux leather and plastic-based vegan leather in terms of durability and longevity. The investment in genuine leather is often justified by its extended lifespan and enduring quality.
Here are my top picks for travel purses under $300 that offer a blend of quality, style, and security:
I’m particularly drawn to the Aimee Kesterberg Crossbody Bag. Its woven texture and stud embellishments add a distinctive edge, making it a stylish choice even for fashion-forward cities like Paris or Italy. Crucially, it features a secure top zipper.
A black leather saddle bag with a long crossbody strap.
Alt text: Classic black leather saddle bag with crossbody strap, highlighting its timeless design and practical features for travel.
Let’s be honest – this Maison de Sabré Leather Saddle Bag bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Hermès Evelyne bag, only missing the signature H-shaped perforations! Regardless, I’m a huge fan. Its unisex design, surprising spaciousness, versatility to transition from casual to more refined settings, array of colors, and comfortable crossbody strap make it an exceptional travel companion.
For those who prefer to carry a bit more, or simply appreciate a generously sized bag, the MZ Wallace Medium Metro Deluxe Tote is an excellent option. This spacious tote can be carried as a traditional tote or converted to a crossbody bag, offering flexibility and style. The quilted pattern adds a touch of textural interest, and it’s available in several colors.
A crescent-shaped black leather bag with a long crossbody strap and a tiny pocket on the strap. If you appreciate the shape of the Uniqlo Half Moon Bag but desire a leather version, the Oryany Rookie Crescent Bag is a perfect upgrade! Its appealing crescent shape, secure zipper closure, long crossbody strap, and even a small, convenient pocket on the strap combine practicality with style. It’s versatile enough for everyday use yet possesses ample style, and it subtly evokes the coveted Polène Numéro Dix bag.
The Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody Bag is another superb choice for a smaller bag that effortlessly transitions from day to night during your travels. It can be worn crossbody or as a shoulder bag, and the chevron pattern in the leather adds a touch of sophistication.
Kate in a trench coat, black crossbody bag, and burgundy patent leather heeled shoes.
Alt text: Fashion-conscious traveler in trench coat and heels, showcasing a Loewe mini puzzle bag as a stylish and secure travel purse option in 2024.
My Current Go-To Travel Purse in 2024
In recent years, my appreciation for handbags has deepened. Rather than relying on a single, all-purpose bag, I’ve curated a small collection of purses to suit different occasions and moods.
The bag featured above is a truly special acquisition – a Loewe Mini Puzzle Bag in black. It’s the most expensive purse I’ve ever purchased (though it was more affordable last year!), but its versatility and enduring quality justify the investment. I anticipate using it for years to come, aiming to drive down the cost per wear to under $1 eventually. (It was a well-deserved reward for surviving the intensely challenging Czech driving school!)
While the mini size is quite compact, the small version offers significantly more capacity.
In this photo, I’ve styled it with my Sézane trench coat, a vintage Express top from the early 2000s, Sézane trousers, Sézane belt, and Carel heels.
This past fall, during my South American travels, my sole purse companion was a Marc Jacobs Snapshot Bag! I acquired this one pre-loved on Vinted.cz for approximately half the retail price.
This bag is undeniably petite – a wallet is out of the question, accommodating only a cardholder and essential items. Its slightly cumbersome opening, while a minor inconvenience for the user, serves as an excellent deterrent to thieves! Despite its size limitations, it proved perfectly adequate for my needs throughout my trip and became my ideal travel purse for that journey.
Styled here with a thrifted denim jacket, vintage Miu Miu aviator sunglasses, a black tank top, Maje satin cargo pants, and Cole Haan sneakers.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Snapshot bag if you seek a compact, secure, and stylish travel purse that’s exceptionally difficult for thieves to access.
Kate sitting on a stoop in Brooklyn, wearing a circle scarf and showing that her passport is in the pocket.
Alt text: Traveler demonstrating the hidden pocket feature of a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf, securely holding a passport, emphasizing stylish security.
Enhance Security with a Speakeasy Scarf Featuring a Secret Pocket
I’m a devoted fan of Speakeasy Travel Supply scarves, and they are exceptionally well-suited for safeguarding your valuables while traveling. Each scarf is ingeniously designed with a hidden pocket spacious enough to hold your passport, phone, cash, lip balm, and even a slim guidebook! During a day trip to Chernobyl, where frequent passport checks were required, keeping my passport discreetly tucked away in my Speakeasy scarf proved invaluable.
Speakeasy scarves effectively fulfill the function of a money belt but with a significant advantage: scarves are simply not targeted by thieves. They are virtually pickpocket-proof! Available in countless designs and fabrics for all seasons, they offer a blend of style and security.
I highly recommend incorporating a Speakeasy scarf into your travel wardrobe for enhanced security, particularly for your most valuable items during transit. It’s a brilliant way to be both stylish and safe simultaneously!
Explore the complete Speakeasy scarf collection here.
Alt text: Example of a flimsy, easily stolen fabric bag, cautioning travelers against using such bags as travel purses for valuables.
The Least Secure Purse for Travel: What to Avoid
In tourist hotspots worldwide, a ubiquitous type of bag is commonly sold: a large, bohemian-style sack crafted from thin, easily penetrable fabric, similar to the one pictured above. These bags are often appealing due to their size, lightweight nature, and souvenir appeal.
However, for the sake of your valuables, please resist the temptation to use these as your primary travel purse.
These bags are incredibly vulnerable. They can be easily snatched off your shoulder, slashed or cut open with minimal effort, and offer virtually no barrier to pickpockets who can effortlessly reach inside and remove your wallet or phone.
If you do purchase one of these bags as a souvenir, relegate it to less critical tasks. Use it as a shopping bag or beach tote for items like towels and sunscreen. Keep your important belongings securely stored elsewhere.
Kate Lanta Purse
Alt text: Travel blogger holding a secure crossbody travel purse, demonstrating best practices for carrying a purse safely while traveling.
Traveling Smart with Your Purse: Safety Best Practices
Protecting my belongings is a constant priority, whether I’m traveling abroad or simply navigating my home city.
My primary objective is to prevent anyone from accessing my bag without my knowledge. To achieve this, I consistently wear my purse diagonally across my body, positioned either on my hip or in front of me, at a height where I can readily rest my hand on it. I always ensure zippers are fully closed.
In restaurants or cinemas, my purse remains either in my lap or placed between my feet with the strap looped around my leg. I never leave it unattended, even for a moment.
When traversing crowded areas, such as subway cars during rush hour, I heighten my vigilance, sometimes holding my purse close to my chest until the crowds thin out.
On the rare occasions when I choose not to carry my purse, I secure it within a portable safe back in my accommodation.
As a crucial safety net, I always travel with comprehensive travel insurance. In the unfortunate event of theft, a reputable travel insurance provider will compensate you for your losses. I personally use and recommend World Nomads for reliable travel insurance.
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