Traveling the world is an incredible experience, filled with new sights, sounds, and adventures. But amidst the excitement of exploring new destinations, one question often arises for savvy travelers: Should I bring a purse on my travels? And if so, what kind of handbag is the best travel purse to ensure both security and style?
As a seasoned traveler and content creator for travels.edu.vn, I’m frequently asked about the best ways to protect belongings while on the go. My answer, based on years of globetrotting experience, is a resounding YES, you absolutely should bring a purse!
Just like at home, a purse becomes an essential companion on your travels. It’s more than just a personal item on a plane or a place to keep your credit cards; it’s your constant companion, everywhere you go.
Whether I’m embarking on a thrilling safari in South Africa, navigating the bustling streets of Southeast Asia on a motorbike, or leisurely strolling through iconic cities like Paris, Tokyo, or Ushuaia, my purse is always with me. It’s a fundamental part of how I travel.
Now, you might be thinking, “But what about theft? Isn’t my purse a target for pickpockets or bag slashers?”
It’s true, these risks exist. However, the chances of becoming a victim are significantly reduced if you employ common sense and stay vigilant about your belongings. Thieves are opportunistic; they look for easy targets. By being prepared and choosing the right travel purse, you can greatly minimize your vulnerability.
I learned this lesson firsthand, and unfortunately, the hard way. Back in 2008, during a trip to Buenos Aires, my wallet was stolen from my purse. The culprit? My own naiveté and the “worst purse imaginable” – a massive, open-top H&M bag. I was practically broadcasting my vulnerability to any would-be thief.
The real turning point in understanding the importance of a proper travel purse came during my semester abroad in Florence. In my youthful inexperience, I thought a sky-blue messenger bag, with its numerous pockets and “travel-friendly” vibe, would be sufficient.
A woman wearing a money belt and pulling out her euros and passport.
A money belt that is definitely not mine, via Shutterstock.
It was a travel fashion disaster of epic proportions.
Not only was it deeply impractical for daily use, but it was also undeniably unfashionable, especially in Florence, arguably the most stylish city in the world. It didn’t take long before I realized I needed to upgrade my purse game to avoid the disdainful glances of impeccably dressed Italians. A quick trip to the local market solved that problem, and I finally understood the importance of blending in and choosing a purse that was both functional and stylish.
Many travelers fall into the trap of believing they need to purchase specialized travel gear for every trip. However, unless you’re planning on extreme hiking or engaging in rigorous outdoor sports, most travel is quite similar to your everyday life at home. Your regular wardrobe and accessories, including your purse, should largely suffice.
So, let’s dive into the essentials and explore what truly makes the best travel purse – one that combines security, practicality, and style for any journey.
This post was most recently updated in May 2024.
Why a Money Belt Isn’t the Best Travel Purse
While money belts are frequently recommended for travel security, I personally find them impractical and often unnecessary for most travel situations. Imagine being in a charming café in Copenhagen or browsing a vibrant market in Nicaragua and having to reach under your clothes every time you want to pay for a coffee or a souvenir. It’s simply not convenient or discreet for everyday use.
Money belts are not designed for accessing your daily essentials. Their primary function is to securely store your most critical items – passport, important documents, backup credit cards, and emergency cash – while you’re in transit or in situations where the risk of theft is higher. They are meant to be worn discreetly and accessed infrequently.
For a more practical and stylish alternative for safeguarding valuables, I highly recommend a scarf with a hidden pocket. It serves the same purpose as a money belt, offering a secure place for your passport and documents, but with added convenience, greater style, and less chance of drawing unwanted attention from thieves. Scarves are a common and fashionable accessory, making them a much more subtle and less targeted option than a traditional money belt.
We’ll explore these ingenious scarves in more detail later, but first, let’s focus on selecting the ideal travel handbag for your adventures.
Key Features of the Best Travel Purse
You’ll find a plethora of “anti-theft” purses on the market, such as Travelon bags, often touted for their anti-slash mesh, hidden pockets, and locking zippers. While these features might offer a sense of extra security, investing in a specialized “anti-theft” purse isn’t always necessary. You can achieve excellent security and style with a regular purse that incorporates these essential features:
1. Crossbody Strap: This is arguably the most crucial feature for a travel purse. A crossbody strap allows you to wear the purse diagonally across your body, distributing the weight evenly and, more importantly, making it significantly harder for thieves to snatch compared to a simple shoulder bag. An adjustable strap is even more advantageous, allowing you to customize the bag’s position for comfort and security, keeping it close to your body in crowded areas.
2. Manageable Size: Opt for a purse that is not too bulky or cumbersome. A manageable size is key for both comfort and security. You should be able to easily keep your hand on your bag in crowded places, effectively blocking access to potential pickpockets. Overly large bags can be unwieldy and harder to monitor, making you a more vulnerable target.
3. Durable and Slash-Resistant Fabric: Choose a purse made from a robust material that can withstand daily wear and tear and offer some resistance to slashing. Leather or high-quality faux leather are excellent choices. While no fabric is completely slash-proof, thick leather or tightly woven synthetic materials are far more challenging to cut through than flimsy fabrics like thin cotton or nylon often used in cheaper bags.
4. Zippered Closures: Say no to snaps, magnetic closures, or open-top bags for travel. Zippers are non-negotiable for a secure travel purse. They provide a significant barrier against pickpockets, preventing wandering hands from easily slipping into your bag and accessing your belongings. Ensure all main compartments have secure zipper closures.
5. Minimal Branding: Subtlety is key when it comes to branding on a travel purse. Avoid bags with prominent logos or flashy branding, especially from well-known mid-range or luxury brands. Ironically, showy mid-range brands like Michael Kors or Kate Spade can sometimes attract more attention from thieves than discreet luxury brands like Loewe or Celine, as they are often perceived as status symbols and indicators of wealth. Opt for a purse with minimal or no visible branding to blend in and avoid making yourself a target.
6. Quick and Easy Access (for You, Not Thieves): While security is paramount, your purse should also be practical for your own use. You need to be able to access your belongings quickly and easily without fumbling or drawing attention. A top zipper or a foldover flap with a secure closure strikes a good balance between security and accessibility. Avoid overly complicated closures that might slow you down or make you a target while you’re struggling to open your bag.
Regarding extra safety features, many travel purses boast RFID-blocking pockets designed to protect your credit cards and passports from electronic theft. While RFID-blocking technology can offer an added layer of security, I believe a dedicated RFID-blocking wallet is a more effective and versatile solution. It provides comprehensive protection for your cards and can be easily transferred between different bags.
Kate in a trench coat, black crossbody bag, and burgundy patent leather heeled shoes.
(In the photo above, I’m wearing a Marc Jacobs Tote Bag in cherry, which I use for everyday life at home but rarely travel with due to its prominent branding. Styled with a Sézane top, Sézane trousers, very old Miu Miu aviators, and Sézane sneakers that I even wore at my wedding.)
Remember, your travel purse doesn’t need to be extravagant or break the bank, but it should be of reasonably good quality to withstand the rigors of travel and provide reliable security.
Here are some affordable purses on Amazon that meet these criteria.
Kate and Pinay Readers.
Shout out to my readers from the Philippines! Love you ladies!
Top Travel Purses Under $50: Affordable and Secure Options
During my travels in Busan, South Korea, I stumbled upon what I considered the perfect budget-friendly travel purse: a stylish black faux leather Alexander McQueen “inspired” crossbody bag adorned with studs and metal skulls. This compact purse, measuring approximately 12 x 5 inches (30 x 13 cm), cost me a mere $30.
Despite its affordable price, this purse served me incredibly well for about a year of constant travel. It endured considerable wear and tear on the road. When one of the straps eventually gave way, a skilled seamstress in Bangkok expertly repaired and reinforced both straps, making it as good as new.
While I eventually upgraded to higher-quality purses, this experience proved that you don’t need to spend a fortune to find a secure and functional travel purse. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options similar to my Busan find, here are some excellent travel purses under $50:
- Covelin Crossbody Purse: I highly recommend this black faux leather crossbody bag. It’s inexpensive, stylish with its angular zippers, and incredibly practical with its adjustable crossbody strap. It ticks all the boxes for a secure and budget-friendly travel purse.
A black Lululemon belt bag.
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Lululemon Belt Bag: The Lululemon Belt Bag has gained immense popularity, and rightfully so. Although made of nylon rather than leather, it’s a fantastic casual and highly secure option that you can keep close to your body at all times. It’s incredibly versatile and can be worn as a traditional fanny pack (or “bum bag” as they say in the UK – just avoid saying “fanny pack” to British friends!) or slung across your chest for added security. Its water-resistant material makes it ideal for various weather conditions and activities. Available in multiple sizes, I recommend the 2-liter size for travel, but they also offer 1-liter and mini sizes. They even have a clear belt bag, perfect for concerts and events with security restrictions. With a wide array of colors, you can easily find one to match your travel style.
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Lola Mae Black Crossbody Bag: The Lola Mae Black Crossbody Bag is another highly-rated and budget-friendly travel purse option. I particularly love the stylish chevron detailing on the faux leather and the cute tassel accent. It’s another excellent, affordable choice that functions perfectly as a travel purse.
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Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag: This Uniqlo bag is a ubiquitous sight among travelers, and for good reason. The Round Mini Shoulder Bag is another cheerful and inexpensive option that offers great functionality. Its crossbody strap and zippered top ensure security, and the nylon material is lightweight and durable. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a smaller size. While perhaps not the most sophisticated choice for ultra-chic destinations like Paris or Milan, it’s an excellent and practical option for active trips, extended travels, or more casual settings.
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Mundi Crossbody Purse: The Mundi crossbody purse offers an added layer of security with built-in RFID protection. I appreciate its foldover style, which keeps your belongings securely tucked inside and further deters pickpockets.
Explore more affordable crossbody purses here.
Kate Lanta Purse
Investing in Quality: Best Travel Purses Under $300
When I relocated to New York City in 2016, I decided to invest in a higher-quality purse that would last. I chose a $220 Christophe Kon black leather crossbody bag with a zipper and a distinctive intrecciato woven design inspired by Bottega Veneta.
At the time, this was the most I had ever spent on a purse, but it proved to be an incredibly worthwhile investment. I carried this purse every single day for years, and its durability and timeless style made it an exceptional value. The cost per wear eventually dropped to mere cents!
I believe that investing in a good quality leather purse for travel, in the $100-$300 range, is a smart choice. You can find excellent options both at retail and on the pre-loved market.
Why leather specifically? While faux leather and vegan leather options exist, genuine leather is undeniably more durable and long-lasting. It ages beautifully and withstands wear and tear far better than plastic-based alternatives. In my opinion, the increased longevity and quality of leather make it worth the extra investment.
Here are some of my top picks for travel purses under $300:
- Aimee Kesterberg Crossbody Bag: I’m drawn to the edgy and stylish design of this Aimee Kesterberg crossbody bag. The woven leather and stud details add a touch of sophistication, making it suitable for even fashion-forward cities like Paris or Rome. It also features a secure top zipper, a must-have for travel.
A black leather saddle bag with a long crossbody strap.
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Maison de Sabré Leather Saddle Bag: Let’s be honest, this Maison de Sabré leather saddle bag bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Hermès Evelyne bag, minus the signature “H” perforations. Regardless, I adore this bag. Its unisex design, surprisingly spacious interior, and versatile style make it suitable for both casual and more dressed-up occasions. The comfortable crossbody strap makes it ideal for all-day wear while exploring. It’s available in several colors to suit your personal style.
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MZ Wallace Medium Metro Deluxe Tote: If you prefer to carry a bit more with you or simply love the capacity of a larger bag, the MZ Wallace Medium Metro Deluxe Tote is an excellent choice. This spacious bag can be carried as a tote or converted to a crossbody bag for added security and convenience. The quilted pattern adds a touch of texture and visual interest, and it comes in various colors.
A crescent-shaped black leather bag with a long crossbody strap and a tiny pocket on the strap.
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Oryany Rookie Crescent Bag: If you appreciate the shape of the Uniqlo Half Moon Bag but desire a more elevated leather version, the Oryany Rookie Crescent Bag is a perfect upgrade. It features a similar crescent shape but crafted from leather, offering a more refined look. It boasts a secure zipper closure, a comfortable long crossbody strap, and even a convenient small pocket on the strap. Its versatile style transitions seamlessly from daily use to travel, and it evokes a similar aesthetic to the popular Polène Numéro Dix bag.
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Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody Bag: This Rebecca Minkoff crossbody bag is another fantastic option for a smaller-sized purse that can effortlessly transition from day to night during your travels. It can be worn as a crossbody or as a shoulder bag, offering versatility in styling. The chevron pattern in the leather adds a touch of sophistication and visual appeal.
My Current Go-To Travel Purse: 2024 and Beyond
In recent years, my appreciation for handbags has evolved. Instead of relying on a single, do-it-all bag, I’ve curated a small collection of purses to suit different occasions and moods.
The purse featured in the image above is a truly special addition to my collection – a Loewe Mini Puzzle Bag in black. It’s the most expensive purse I’ve ever purchased (though prices have slightly increased since my purchase), but its exceptional quality and timeless design make it a worthwhile investment. I wear it constantly, and I anticipate it lasting for many years to come, driving down the cost per wear to an incredibly low value. (I treated myself to this bag as a reward for successfully navigating the notoriously challenging Czech driving school!)
While the mini size is quite compact, the small version of the Loewe Puzzle Bag offers significantly more space if you need to carry more essentials.
In the 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.
Kate sitting on a stoop in Brooklyn, wearing a circle scarf and showing that her passport is in the pocket.
For my trip to South America last fall, I opted for a single, highly practical travel purse – a Marc Jacobs Snapshot Bag! I acquired this one pre-loved on Vinted.cz for about half the retail price, making it an even smarter purchase.
The Snapshot bag is undeniably tiny – it barely accommodates a cardholder and a few essential items, definitely not a full-sized wallet. Accessing the main compartment can be a bit fiddly, which, paradoxically, is a great security feature, deterring potential thieves. Despite its small size, it proved to be perfectly sufficient for my needs throughout the trip. It was, in essence, my ideal travel companion.
I styled it with a thrifted denim jacket, vintage Miu Miu aviator sunglasses, a simple black tank top, Maje satin cargo pants, and Cole Haan sneakers.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Snapshot bag if you’re seeking a compact, secure, and stylish purse that stays close to your body and is exceptionally difficult to break into.
The Genius of the Speakeasy Scarf with a Secret Pocket
I am a huge advocate for Speakeasy Travel Supply scarves, particularly for their ingenious hidden pockets, perfect for safeguarding valuables while traveling. Each scarf is designed with a discreet pocket large enough to hold your passport, smartphone, cash, lip balm, and even a slim guidebook. During my visit to Chernobyl, where frequent passport checks were the norm, keeping my passport securely tucked away in my Speakeasy scarf provided both convenience and peace of mind.
Speakeasy scarves effectively serve the same security function as a money belt, but with a significant advantage: no thief would ever think to target your scarf. It’s virtually pickpocket-proof! And with a vast array of designs, fabrics, and styles available, you can find a Speakeasy scarf for any season and personal aesthetic.
For this reason, I consider a Speakeasy scarf an essential travel security accessory. It’s the ideal place to stash your most valuable items when you’re in transit, navigating crowded areas, or simply want an extra layer of security. It’s a brilliant way to be both stylish and safe simultaneously!
Explore the entire Speakeasy scarf collection here.
blue beach bag made out of a tank top.
Steer Clear of the Worst Travel Purse
In tourist hotspots, beach towns, and cities worldwide, you’ll inevitably encounter a ubiquitous type of bag for sale on practically every corner: a large, bohemian-style sack crafted from flimsy fabric, similar to the one pictured above. These bags are often appealing due to their size, lightweight nature, and souvenir-like charm.
However, for the love of all that is secure, please do not use this type of bag as a purse, especially when traveling.
These bags are incredibly vulnerable. They can be easily snatched off your shoulder, slashed or cut open with minimal effort, and offer virtually no protection against pickpockets who can effortlessly reach inside and remove your wallet or valuables.
If you happen to purchase one of these bags as a souvenir, by all means, enjoy it – but never rely on it to safeguard your valuables. Instead, use it as a shopping bag for groceries, a beach bag for towels and sunscreen, or for carrying non-essential items. Keep your important belongings safely stored elsewhere.
Traveling Smart with Your Purse: Essential Safety Tips
Protecting my belongings is always a top priority, both when I’m traveling and in my daily life at home. It’s a mindset that becomes second nature with experience.
My primary strategy is to prevent anyone from gaining access to my bag in the first place. I consistently wear my purse diagonally across my body, positioned either on my hip or in front of me, and adjusted to a height where I can comfortably rest my hand on it at all times. Zippers are always fully closed.
When I’m in restaurants, cafes, or movie theaters, my purse either stays securely in my lap or between my feet with the strap wrapped around my leg. I never, ever leave it unattended or hanging loosely on the back of a chair.
In crowded environments, such as subway cars during rush hour or bustling markets, I become extra vigilant, sometimes holding my purse close to my chest until the crowds thin out.
On the rare occasions when I choose not to take my purse with me, I ensure it’s securely locked away in a portable safe in my hotel room or accommodation.
And as a crucial safety net, I always travel with comprehensive travel insurance. In the unfortunate event of theft or loss, a reliable travel insurance policy will provide compensation for your stolen items, minimizing the financial impact. I personally use and highly recommend World Nomads for travel insurance.
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