Let’s be honest, the world of anti-theft travel bags often feels like a style desert. As someone who lives and breathes travel for travels.edu.vn, I get it. Why are so many travel purses seemingly designed to clash with every outfit and age group? It’s a question that has plagued stylish travelers for too long. We see stunning, fashionable purses every day that blend beauty and practicality seamlessly. Yet, when it comes to bags specifically for travel, especially those with anti-theft features, the options often feel… well, let’s just say aesthetically challenged.
Take, for instance, the typical anti-theft crossbody bag. Often, they come in unflattering shapes and colors that scream “tourist” louder than any floral Hawaiian shirt. And the irony? These bags, intended to protect you from thieves, sometimes end up making you a more visible target simply because they look like anti-theft bags. It’s almost an invitation! Plus, the price tag on some of these less-than-stylish options can be surprisingly high.
Traveling multiple times a month as I do, there’s no way I’m sacrificing my personal style for an unattractive travel purse. And I certainly refuse to compromise on style when it comes to travel shoes either!
Best travel purses that are cute and anti-theft!
Cute Travel Purses Do Exist: Style and Security Combined
I’m here to tell you that you absolutely can have both style and security in a travel purse. You shouldn’t have to choose between looking good and keeping your valuables safe, especially when exploring amazing destinations. That’s why I’ve curated a list of the 8 best travel purses that prove you don’t need to compromise. These are bags I’ve personally tested or come highly recommended by trusted travel experts.
These Cute Travel Bags are not just about aesthetics; they are designed for function too. Imagine strolling through European streets, confidently carrying a bag that holds all your essentials – phone, wallet, camera, even those must-have souvenirs – while complementing your outfit and deterring unwanted attention. You can capture stunning photos in iconic locations without constantly worrying about your belongings.
Why trust my recommendations? Because I’ve either personally used these purses on my travels or have relied on the firsthand experiences of my network of travel professionals. We understand the real-world needs of travelers and have put these bags to the test in various travel scenarios.
My Top 8 Stylish and Cute Travel Bags (Tested for Real Travel)
Let’s get into the exciting part – my favorite stylish travel bags. These aren’t just cute; they are functional, secure, and won’t make you stand out as a tourist for the wrong reasons. They are designed to seamlessly blend into any urban environment while providing the peace of mind you need when traveling.
1. Arden Cove: The Ultimate Anti-Theft Crossbody
Arden Cove is, in my opinion, the gold standard for anti-theft travel purses. It’s truly the best travel purse for international adventures, but stylish enough to use even when you’re not traveling. I’ve even had the pleasure of meeting one of the founders – her passion for creating women’s travel handbags that are both chic and practical is truly inspiring.
Starting with their signature crossbody bags, Arden Cove has expanded their range to include larger bags, all while maintaining a focus on discreet security. What sets them apart is their ability to look like any fashionable purse a local might carry, completely disguising their anti-theft features.
Each bag features an adjustable shoulder strap and is packed with traveler-friendly features, including RFID-blocking credit card slots to protect against electronic theft. But the real game-changer is the material – made with the same fiber used in bullet-proof vests. This means no more worrying about slashed bags! Forget flimsy stainless steel mesh; Arden Cove offers serious protection with a stylish edge.
Woman with cream Arden Cove crossbody bag in urban setting
With two cleverly designed pockets – a locking main compartment and a smaller, easily accessible one (perfect for phones and travel passes) – organization is a breeze. The zipper locks add an extra layer of security in crowded places, making it difficult for pickpockets to unzip without you noticing. And did I mention they are water-resistant? Perfect for unpredictable travel weather.
This company has become my go-to for stylish and secure travel purses. My Arden Cove bag accompanied me on my honeymoon across Europe, enduring everything from rainy days to hikes in the Isle of Skye and even Oktoberfest celebrations. It held up beautifully and kept my belongings safe and dry throughout.
I wholeheartedly recommend this cute small travel purse for any type of trip. For travel, I suggest opting for a darker color like black, as my cream-colored bag did show some wear after a year of adventures. While the price point might be a bit higher, the quality, security, and style are well worth the investment. You can find Arden Cove bags on Amazon and directly from their website!
2. Dagne Dover Micah Crossbody: Vegan and Vibrant
Another fantastic crossbody travel purse option is the Micah Crossbody from Dagne Dover. Known for their sleek designs and vibrant color options, Dagne Dover bags are a favorite among style-conscious travelers. A fellow travel blogger friend of mine swears by this 100% vegan purse for her trips, highlighting its blend of fashion and function.
A standout feature of the Micah Crossbody is the strategically placed back pocket, perfect for your phone. This design makes it one of the best crossbody bags for travel, as it keeps your phone secure against your body, significantly reducing the risk of theft.
Beyond security, this bag is designed for all-day comfort and practicality. It comes with a comfortable, adjustable strap, an internal key ring to keep your keys easily accessible, and ample space to organize all your daily essentials.
Shop The Dagne Dover Bag
Dagne Dover Micah Crossbody bag in a lifestyle setting
3. Pacsafe Anti-Theft Sling: The Trendy Fanny Pack Reimagined
For those embracing the fanny pack trend, the Pacsafe Anti-Theft Sling is a must-consider. We are huge fans of slings and fanny packs for travel, especially now that Gen Z has brought them back into the fashion spotlight. Fanny packs worn across the front are inherently more secure, being in your line of sight and easy to access.
This Pacsafe travel purse is packed with anti-theft features, including lockable zippers on the main compartment, an RFID-blocking pocket for your cards, a key clip for organization, and a padded honeycomb fabric back for maximum comfort. It’s easily one of the best cute travel bags for keeping your essentials secure and accessible on any trip.
If you prefer a slightly larger travel fanny pack, I also highly recommend Baggu purses for their stylish and functional designs.
4. Beis Daytripper Backpack: Chic Backpack for Day Adventures
Sometimes, a backpack is simply the most practical choice, especially for day trips or as a carry-on. Our editor Taylor is a huge fan of the Beis Daytripper backpack travel purse bag. It’s perfect for days when you need to carry a bit more – a water bottle, a light jacket, travel documents, and more.
This backpack is thoughtfully designed with two side water bottle pockets, a trolley passthrough to easily attach to rolling luggage, three zip pockets for organization, and a padded laptop sleeve that comfortably fits a 13-inch laptop. The spacious front pocket is perfect for day trip essentials or work conference materials.
The comfortable shoulder straps and sleek design ensure you’ll blend in with the crowd, avoiding the typical tourist backpack look. While it doesn’t have specific anti-theft material, its stylish, everyday appearance makes it less of a target than overtly touristy backpacks. It looks like a bag a local would carry to work, which is a great advantage for travelers.
If you’re interested in learning more about Beis luggage, check out Taylor’s detailed Beis luggage review post here.
Woman wearing Beis Daytripper backpack in a city setting
5. Longchamp Le Pliage Tote: The Working Traveler’s Chic Companion
As a travel blogger, my laptop is practically glued to me, even when traveling. If you travel for work or need a chic, office-appropriate tote bag that can handle your laptop, look no further than Longchamp. It’s a fantastic alternative to the Baggallini Everywhere Bagg, which, in my opinion, leans too heavily into the “anti-theft travel bag” aesthetic.
This large travel tote is a favorite for traveling working professionals. The key feature is the top zipper that fully closes the bag – a must-have in my book! Many tote bags large enough for laptops lack this essential security feature.
Travel Tip: On crowded trains or public transport, always keep a hand on the zipper of your bag to prevent anyone from opening it unnoticed!
This Longchamp shoulder bag offers ample space while remaining incredibly lightweight. It can even be folded down to the size of a paperback book when not in use, making it a super practical travel handbag. Available in a wide array of colors, from classic black to vibrant pink and yellow, this bag is a popular choice for women on the go.
Travel Tip: During my study abroad in Italy, I relied on a tote bag to carry books and my laptop to classes. I quickly learned the importance of a zippered top for security, especially on crowded trains. My go-to trick was to flip my purse so the zipped closure faced forward and keep my hand on it in crowded areas. This simple yet effective tip helped me avoid pickpockets throughout my entire semester abroad!
Woman holding a black Longchamp Le Pliage tote bag
6. Double Compartment Crossbody: Affordable and Functional Security
If Arden Cove is slightly outside your budget, the Double Compartment Crossbody is an excellent alternative. While it may not have all the high-tech features of the Arden Cove, it’s incredibly affordable, comes in a variety of colors, and ticks all my basic security boxes: it zips completely closed, it’s a crossbody style, and it has a comfortable shoulder strap. Plus, it’s spacious enough for daily essentials.
This crossbody purse features two separate compartments, which is fantastic for organization. You can keep your camera and phone in one section and your wallet and smaller items in the other. While it has a snap button top closure, the interior zipper pockets provide added security, making it difficult for thieves to access your belongings without significant effort.
One of my favorite features of these crossbody bags is the secret back zipper pocket. Located on the side that rests against your body, this discreet pocket is perfect for stashing valuables like cash or your ID. Skip the basic crossbody bags; this one is cuter, more affordable, and that secret pocket is a game-changer!
There are various styles and designs of this bag available, but most include the back zipper pocket, a comfortable leather shoulder strap, and secure zipper pockets.
Woman wearing a double compartment crossbody bag
7. TravelSmith RFID Crossbody Bag: Baby Blue Security with Smart Features
Last but certainly not least, the TravelSmith RFID Crossbody Bag is another fantastic travel purse with built-in anti-theft protection. This cute baby blue purse features a passport-sized RFID-blocking pocket to protect your credit cards and passport from digital theft – a very real concern in our digital age.
The straps are designed to be anti-slashing, although not the full bulletproof material like the Arden Cove. It also includes a clever double-locking zipper system that attaches to an interior security hook, preventing thieves from easily unzipping your bag – a common travel worry, as I’ve realized while writing this post!
Despite its compact size, it’s spacious enough for essential items and includes side pockets for quick access storage. Because, let’s be real, you can never have too many pockets!
What truly stands out about this purse is its color and design. It doesn’t look like an anti-theft bag at all; it resembles something you’d find at a trendy retail store. This chic and fashionable appearance can actually help deter pickpockets by not screaming “tourist.” And yes, it also has that invaluable secret back zipper pocket for extra security.
TravelSmith RFID Crossbody Bag in baby blue
8. Lo & Sons Bond Sling: Sleek and Pocket-Packed
I’ve been a fan of Lo & Sons OG bag for years as my go-to carry-on, and recently, I had the chance to try out the Lo & Sons Bond fanny pack. “Obsessed” doesn’t even begin to cover it. For errands around my city, San Francisco, I typically grab a sling bag, and while I love my Baggu Crescent bag, it lacks the security features needed for travel.
The Bond sling is a game-changer. It’s sleek, stylish, and packed with pockets, including a discreet back zipper pocket perfect for your phone or cash, keeping it securely against your body. There’s also a dedicated card pocket, ideal for metro cards, so you don’t have to fumble for your wallet on public transport.
The Bond is available in three materials: premium sheepskin leather, tyvek, and recycled poly with an antimicrobial lining, all featuring durable Lo & Sons hardware. A standout perk is the interior key string, perfect for attaching keys or even a small wallet for extra security against pickpockets. It’s an instant favorite for its blend of style, security, and practicality.
Woman wearing Lo & Sons Bond Sling in an urban outdoor setting
What Makes a Truly Great Cute Travel Purse? Essential Qualities
Before diving into my top recommendations, let’s discuss what truly makes a travel purse exceptional. Having traveled extensively, from world wonders to remote jungles and bustling cities, I’ve learned that the best travel bags share key characteristics.
First and foremost, a secure zipper closure is essential. While bucket bags are stylish for everyday use, they are not ideal for travel. An open top is practically an invitation for opportunistic thieves in crowded areas. Open bags also risk spilling contents during travel mishaps, like turbulence on a plane or a bumpy taxi ride. A full zipper closure is the first thing I look for in a travel purse.
Woman holding a zippered crossbody travel purse in Edinburgh
The second crucial quality is a comfortable crossbody strap. While backpacks and messenger bags have their place, I find crossbody bags far more convenient for daily exploration. They allow easy access to essentials like wallets, phones for photos, lip balm, and cameras without the hassle of removing a backpack repeatedly. Anti-theft crossbody purses also offer enhanced security. In crowded spaces, you can easily swing the bag to your front and keep a hand on it, ensuring your belongings are always within your sight and reach.
Third, consider the space and capacity. The ideal size depends on the type of trip. Work trips may require larger bags to accommodate laptops and work documents, while sightseeing days might call for smaller bags that still fit essentials like cameras and souvenirs. A tiny party purse simply won’t cut it for travel. Your travel purse should ideally hold some or all of the following:
- ID and/or passport
- Credit cards and cash (wallet)
- Travel cards (train, metro)
- Camera
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle (or space for a small one)
- Hand lotion
- Lip balm
- Hair ties
- Phone
- Portable phone charger
- Small umbrella or packable rain jacket
- Occasionally, a book or small souvenir!
When choosing a travel purse for an upcoming trip, these three features—zipper closure, crossbody strap, and sufficient space—are my starting points for narrowing down the options. The bags I’ve recommended are truly the best travel purses available, blending security, style, and practicality.
Woman in New Orleans wearing a stylish travel outfit
Extra Tips to Avoid Pickpockets While Traveling
Choosing one of these best travel bags is the first and most important step in protecting yourself from theft. However, as a seasoned traveler, I’ve learned additional strategies to minimize the risk of pickpocketing.
The Decoy Wallet Trick
During my study abroad in Mexico (yes, I’m a travel addict!), one of my professors was deeply passionate about pickpocket prevention. He delivered an extensive lecture on common pickpocketing techniques and shared personal anecdotes. His most memorable tip was the “fake wallet.”
My professor, a typical unassuming tourist type, realized he was a prime target for pickpockets in Mexico. His solution? Two wallets. He carries his real wallet in his front pocket and a cheap decoy wallet, filled with a few dollars, in his back pocket. The idea is that when a thief targets him (as they often do), they grab the back pocket wallet, run off, and end up with almost nothing. Genius, right?
While I admire the ingenuity, I’m usually too low-maintenance to manage a decoy wallet. That’s why investing in a good, secure travel purse is my preferred method of protection. The key takeaway from this tip is that thieves are adept at identifying and targeting tourists.
Ditch the Obvious Tourist Gear
Looking like a tourist makes you a more likely target. This includes wearing overly casual clothing, sporting American sports team apparel on European trips, or carrying obviously touristy bags. This is where a stylish and functional purse becomes crucial. Blending in with locals is a significant deterrent.
I recall a trip to Italy with my now-husband, Robin, years ago. Before we left, I laid down some clothing rules (which he semi-ignored, bless him). No sports t-shirts (which then comprised most of his wardrobe) and definitely no baseball caps. Perhaps a bit extreme, but I was determined to avoid any tourist traps. I even insisted on carrying his wallet and phone in my purse!
My fear was that he would inadvertently dress in a way that screamed, “I’m a tourist, and I probably have valuables!” Back then, he was less travel-savvy, and after hearing countless stories of classmates getting pickpocketed during my semester abroad, I wanted to prevent any issues. My goal was to enjoy Italy – the wine, the pizza, the sights – not spend days at an embassy replacing a stolen passport.
He did sneak in a couple of sports shirts, but we survived the trip without any theft incidents. I attribute it partly to my vigilant purse strategy. I used a large crossbody tote with a top zipper, kept my hand on it in crowded places, and stored wallets and phones in secure interior pockets. But mostly, it was about being aware of our surroundings.
Stay Alert to Common Scams
Awareness is half the battle. My professor in Mexico armed me with knowledge of common pickpocketing scams, making me much more vigilant.
One common con is the “lost tourist” scam. Someone approaches you with a large map, placing it close to your body as they ask for directions. While you’re distracted, an accomplice comes from behind and steals your purse or wallet, hidden by the map. Now, whenever someone approaches us with a map, I instinctively secure my purse, just in case. So far, they’ve all been genuinely lost, but it’s better to be safe.
Another trick involves distractions with spills. Imagine a crowded bar or restaurant. Someone “accidentally” bumps into you, spilling a drink or sauce. While they profusely apologize and attempt to clean up the mess, an accomplice is making off with your unattended bag. It’s a disorienting tactic that can easily divert your attention from your belongings.
Train platforms are another hotspot for pickpockets. As you try to exit a crowded train, people – often children – will block the doorway. In the process of pushing through, they can easily steal your wallet or phone. Now, I’m always on high alert when exiting trains, especially if the crowding seems unusual.
This is why I appreciate features like Arden Cove’s detachable straps, allowing you to secure your bag to a chair and prevent grab-and-run thefts. And remember, Arden Cove also offers travel backpacks if you need more space!
Street scene in Dublin with a woman wearing a denim jacket
Keep Your Purse Close
Sometimes, pickpockets are brazen enough to simply snatch your bag. In San Francisco, I witnessed a man walk up to a backpacker on a busy street, rip the backpack off his shoulders, and sprint away. It happened so quickly, and no one intervened. Whether the backpacker recovered his bag, I don’t know.
Beyond theft prevention, functionality and space are key aspects of a good travel bag. Airport security lines are much smoother when you have a small pocket for your boarding pass and phone. (Yes, airport scanners always seem to beep at me, resulting in extra pat-downs – skirts and airports, go figure!). Similarly, having a secure yet accessible pocket for train passes is invaluable when navigating public transport.
Pro-tip: Consider using a separate airport belt bag, like a Baggu or Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag, for easy access to passport, boarding pass, and phone during travel. Once you reach your destination, switch to a more secure and weather-resistant bag for city exploration.
Opt for Waterproof Travel Purses
Rain is another travel hazard to consider. I’ve been caught in countless downpours, especially in destinations like Portland, Washington, and Ireland. Before discovering my Arden Cove purse, I constantly worried about my phone and camera getting water damaged. A waterproof travel purse eliminates this concern, even if you forget an umbrella or raincoat.
And finally, style matters! Did my opening rant about that berry-colored bag give it away? Travel is a significant part of my life, and I want to express my personal style while on the road, just as I do at home. I’ve never understood the trend of wearing less stylish outfits for travel than for everyday life.
Perhaps it’s about practicality for some, but I find joy in wearing a pretty floral dress in New Orleans or a chic little black dress for a London date night.
Woman wearing a black crossbody bag in Vancouver
An ugly purse simply kills my travel vibe. That’s why I wanted to share my top purse recommendations for women who, like me, refuse to compromise style for function. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect cute anti-theft travel purse for your next adventure! If you have any questions, drop a comment below or DM me on Instagram @thewhimsysoul – I’m always happy to help!
