Tech & Gear Luggage The 13 Best Crossbody Bags of 2021 Stylish, practical, and perfect for everyday use Written by Justine Harrington Twitter Justine Harrington is a writer based in Austin, Texas, where she covers topics spanning travel, food & drink, lifestyle, culture, social advocacy, and the outdoors. Tripsavvy's Editorial Guidelines Justine Harrington Updated 04/22/21 Share Pin Email Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. Tripsavvy / Chloe Jeong The Rundown Best Overall: Madewell The Medium Transport Tote at Madewell "It's equal parts functional and stylish." Best Designer: Kate Spade Margaux Convertible Crossbody at Saks Fifth Avenue "Though the design is simple, it's classic, versatile, and you'll get tons of wear out of it." Best Splurge: Cuyana Half-Moon Mini Bag at Cuyana "A very splurge-worthy pick with supple, full-grain Italian leather that looks better over time." Best Style: Botkier Cobble Hill Leather Crossbody Bag at Nordstrom "The unique design is sure to add a funky, whimsical touch to all your outfits." Best Mini Bag: Everlane The Leather Sling at Everlane "Opt for this miniature shoulder bag to achieve a hip minimalist look." Best Cruelty-Free: Matt & Nat Erika Crossbody Bag at Matt & Nat "This sleek bag is crafted from ultra-soft vegan faux leather and recycled nylon lining." Best Leather: Coach Beat Saddle Bag at Saks Fifth Avenue "The metallic buckle and soft leather brings timeless style to your wardrobe." Best for Moms: Dagne Dover Small Landon Carryall at Dagne Ddover "Not only is the material easy to clean, but the interior holds mom and baby’s essentials." Best for Men: Herschel Supply Co. Lane Crossbody Bag at Nordstrom "The design of this bag makes it functional for a range of activities including hiking and sightseeing." Best Anti-Theft: Travelon Luggage Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag at Amazon "This bag boasts a bevy of protective, travel-friendly features." Crossbody bags are a great accessory and should be a part of your travel gear. They sit securely on your body, keep your hands free, and carry all the essentials without being bulky. Unlike backpacks and larger tote bags, these usually won't put a strain on your back or shoulders either. There's no shortage of bags that come in a range of colors and prints to truly showcase your style. Before purchasing a crossbody bag, it's important to take key factors into consideration. For someone who tends to pack light, a smaller bag with a few card slots will be sufficient. But if you have more essentials to carry, especially electronics, consider something larger. And the choice of material is also important as you want something durable and that can be easily cleaned. To help narrow down your search, here are the best crossbody bags. Best Overall: Madewell The Medium Transport Tote Courtesy of Nordstroms Buy on Madewell.com Buy on Shopbop.com What We Like Easily adjustable strap Secure zipper Can be personalized What We Don't Like Expensive Madewell's Transport Tote is equal parts functional and stylish, with its sleek, minimalist design and sizeable interior — an interior so sizable, that it fits large electronics like a laptop and other essentials. This doesn’t mean it’s bulky, though, as the Transport Tote lives up to its name with its streamlined form. Made of 100 percent vegetable-tanned leather, you'll be getting a good bang for your buck with this bag. It also features a zippered closure and a detachable strap which can adjust from 14 to 19 inches. Wear this as a crossbody or on your shoulder. Size: 12.2 x 11 x 5.5 in. | Weight: 1.8 lb. | Pockets: Interior and exterior |Care: Wipe clean Best Designer: Kate Spade Margaux Convertible Crossbody Kate Spade Buy on Katespade.com Buy on Saks Fifth Avenue What We Like 22-inch drop strap Goldtone hardware What We Don't Like Doesn't hold much Kate Spade knows how to craft gorgeous, streamlined bags, and the Margaux Medium Convertible Crossbody is no exception. Made from buttery-soft, refined grain leather, this bag’s slim silhouette belies its rather roomy interior and ample organizational storage that includes dual interior slide pockets, along with exterior slide pockets. Conveniently, this fashion-forward bag also converts into a clutch via an adjustable crossbody strap that clips off, so you can wear it on your evenings out. Simple, classic, and versatile, the Margaux will look good with virtually everything in your closet. Size: 9 x 6 x 1 in. | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Wipe clean Best Splurge: Cuyana Half-Moon Mini Bag Courtesy of Cuyanahttps://www.cuyana.com/half-moon-mini-bag.html#blood-orange Buy on Cuyana.com What We Like Range of colors Durable Italian leather Unique shape What We Don't Like Only one pocket Treat yourself with the Half-Moon Mini Bag from Cuyana — a very splurge-worthy pick with supple, full-grain Italian leather, signature gold-tone hardware, and a clean, sophisticated shape. It may be an investment piece, but this crossbody bag will last and will only get more beautiful as the years go by, thanks to its high-quality construction that wears in and softens over time. Plus, add a monogram for a personalized touch and choose from a range of gorgeous colors, including blood orange, black, caramel, forest, stone, and croc-embossed white. Size: 5.3 x 8.25 x 1.58 in. | Weight: .55 lb. | Pockets: Internal only |Care: Wipe clean The 11 Best Wallets for Men of 2021 Best Style: Botkier Cobble Hill Leather Crossbody Bag Courtesy of Nordstrom Buy on Nordstrom Buy on Bloomingdales What We Like Sturdy top handle Great interior organization Snap closure What We Don't Like Limited colors Step up your fashion bag game with the Botkier Cobble Hill Leather Crossbody Bag, a super-chic accessory that adds a funky, whimsical touch to all your outfits. The bag’s thoroughly modern appeal can be found in the details: its gilded hardware accents and an 80s-inspired, asymmetrical flap. The magnetic closure is convenient, while still keeping your valuables safe. Carry it via its top handle or a choice of two removable straps. Measuring 8 inches long, you can easily fit even the bulkiest wallet, ID, and even a compact umbrella. Size: 8 x 6.5 x 2.5 in. | Weight: 15 oz. | Pockets: Interior and exterior |Care: Wipe clean Best Mini Bag: Everlane The Leather Sling Courtesy of Everlane Buy on Everlane.com What We Like Microsuede lining Range of colors What We Don't Like No internal organization Opt for this miniature shoulder bag from Everlane for a hip minimalist look. Made from silky-smooth Italian leather that burnishes beautifully with wear, this simple bag comes in two attractive shades: black or forest. It can hold all your accessories—like your phone, keys, sunglasses, and wallet—and the super-adjustable strap makes carrying a breeze. Adjust the fit so it's super close to you or give it some slack, as the strap can extend up to 43 inches. Size: 10.25 x 5.5 x .25 in. | Pockets: Internal only | Care: Spot clean Best Cruelty-Free: Matt & Nat Erika Crossbody Bag Courtesy of Matt & Nat Buy on Mattandnat.com Buy on Nordstromrack.com What We Like Vegan materials Shoulder strap extends to 24 inches What We Don't Like No exterior pocket Crafted from ultra-soft vegan faux leather and recycled nylon lining, the Erika Vegan Leather Crossbody Bag by Matt & Nat is elegant, luxurious, and best of all, cruelty-free. It comes in classic hues like black, red, or beige and features a cute flap and hidden snap closure. Plus, the strap adjusts by four inches so you can find the best fit possible. This bag can easily take you from a day of walking tours to an upscale dinner. Size: 8 x 7.5 x 3.5 in. | Pockets: Internal only | Care: Spot clean Best Leather: Coach Beat Saddle Bag Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue Buy on Coach.com Buy on Saks Fifth Avenue What We Like Classic style Detachable strap What We Don't Like Expensive Slim, tight pockets Give yourself the gift of a Coach leather crossbody bag—you’ll have it forever, so it's well worth the price. The Beat Saddle Bag is luxuriously handmade with buttery-soft, glove-tanned leather that brings timeless style and authenticity to your wardrobe. This bag features inside multifunction pockets, an outside pocket so you have easy access to your essentials, and a secure snap closure that’s accented by the elegant golden Coach buckle. You can opt to wear it on the shoulder or crossbody and it comes in four cool colors: red sand, ivory, black, and natural. There's even the option to add a monogram or embellishments. Size: 8.75 x 7 x 2.25 in. | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Spot clean Best for Moms: Dagne Dover Small Landon Carryall Courtesy of Dagne Dover Buy on Nordstrom Buy on Dagnedover.com What We Like Fun colors and limited edition prints Easy to clean Removable mesh pouch What We Don't Like The material can show wear Moms usually need a lot when they’re on the go. Not only are there the adult essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and more, but baby also has a ton of gear. Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall is the perfect mix of a bag that fits it all without being cumbersome. The bag has a range of sizes, from XS to XL, but the small is just right for moms. The neoprene material is easily washable and water-resistant. Plus, the 11-liter interior capacity has mesh pockets and even a padded laptop sleeve. Size: 12 x 6 x 11.5 in. | Weight: 1.2 lb. | Pockets: Internal and external |Care: Hand wash The 11 Best Travel Tote Bags of 2021 Best for Men: Herschel Supply Co. Lane Crossbody Bag Courtesy of Nordstroms Buy on Amazon What We Like Secure pockets Cord zip pulls 9L capacity What We Don't Like Limited zipper compartments This classic style from Herschel is a great option for a simple design that’s still functional for a range of activities, from hiking to sightseeing to a full day of traveling. The exterior zippered pocket is quite deep and the flap opens to reveal a main zippered compartment that’s large enough to actually fit a laptop. The adjustable strap measures 10.5 to 23 inches and can easily be worn over the shoulder or chest. Best of all, the bag’s canvas material ensures great durability. Size: 12 x 10 x 3 in. | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Spot clean Best Anti-Theft: Travelon Luggage Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag Buy on Amazon Buy on Home Depot What We Like RFID-blocking Affordable Key clip with LED light What We Don't Like The strap can feel uncomfortable Frequent travelers may want to consider investing in a high-quality, anti-theft bag like the Travelon's crossbody, which boasts a bevy of protective, travel-friendly features, like a slash-proof shoulder strap, RFID-blocking slots for all your important cards, a removable LED light, and secure locking compartments. All in all, you’ll instantly feel more protected when wearing this bag. Not to mention, it comes in a wide variety of colors and prints. In addition to the secure main compartment, the front and back zippered pockets keep your most reached for items close by. Size: 12 x 14.5 x 1.5 in. | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Spot clean Best Alternative: Fjallraven Kånken Sling Bag Buy on Amazon Buy on Nordstrom What We Like Variety of colors Strap extends up to 26 inches What We Don't Like Little interior organization Everyone’s favorite backpack comes in a crossbody bag version, too: the iconic Fjallraven Kanken Sling Bag is made of durable, water-resistant nylon fabric that’s easy to clean, and the bag’s boxy, hip shape doesn’t droop or sag. Conveniently, your belongings stay super-accessible via the zippered pocket on the back. Though the bag is small, it gets the job done and holds the day's essentials. The cute crossbody comes in yellow, slate, pink, light grey, and many other colors. Size: 6 x 8 x 2.75 in. | Weight: .5 lb. | Pockets: Internal and external |Care: Spot clean Best for Travel: J. Crew Camera Bag Courtesy of J. Crew Buy on Jcrew.com What We Like Natural materials Convertible strap What We Don't Like Small interior The J. Crew Camera Bag was designed for frequent on-the-go use—it’s ideal for long jaunts by plane, car, train, or however else you’re traveling. The raffia and leather works well with pretty much any outfit and they're durable. The deep interior space works well for a small camera, wallet, or any important items, while the external pocket perfectly fits a phone. Wear the strap over your shoulder or remove it to turn the bag into a clutch. Size: 5.75 x 8 x 2.25 in. | Pockets: Internal and external | Care: Wipe clean The 9 Best Travel Purses of 2021 Best for Everyday: Dagne Dover Epic Crossbody Courtesy of Dagne Dover Buy on Dagnedover.com What We Like Timeless box-style Easy to access cards or ID What We Don't Like Expensive for a small bag For everyday use, you can’t go wrong with Dagne Dover’s Andra Crossbody bag. Just big enough to fit the essentials, this classic bag’s simple, yet chic silhouette will never go out of style. Inside the main compartment, there’s a zipper pocket, leather pen holder, and key clip, and the magnetic closure has three card slots underneath to help you stay organized when you’re out and about. On top of that, the bag's detachable crossbody strap ensures maximum comfort. Size: 7.75 x 6 x 2.75 in. | Weight: .9 lb. | Pockets: Internal and external |Care: Spot clean Final Verdict It’s gotta be the Medium Transport Tote from Madewell (view at Shopbop), the beloved brand’s signature bag. It’s streamlined, impeccably designed, and timelessly chic. The fit is comfortable, with an adjustable shoulder strap, or you can elect to carry it by the top handle if you’re feeling fancy. What more could you want from a good crossbody bag? What to Look for in Crossbody Bags Price Crossbody bags run the gamut in terms of price, largely depending on the material and brand. Leather tends to be at the most expensive end of the spectrum, while materials like faux-leather or polyester tend to be the least expensive. As with anything, you get what you pay for. Material When it comes to material for crossbody bags, the sky’s the limit. You’ll want to select something durable, of course—canvas, leather (or vegan leather), and suede are three of the most durable materials to choose from. Capacity Keep in mind that, generally, crossbody bags are smaller and more compact than tote bags or backpacks. Everyone’s specific criteria for bag capacity will differ, though. Before deciding on a bag, think about what you’ll be using it for. What do you need to carry on a day-to-day basis? Maybe you want a smaller crossbody bag to hold your phone and wallet (and that’s it) because you already have a large backpack that you’ll be layering it with. Maybe you need a more spacious crossbody tote to use as a diaper bag. Be realistic about what you’ll be using your bag for and then go from there. Pockets Most crossbody bags are slim and compact, with just one interior pocket and an exterior one. If you want something with more organizational features, look for a bag with multiple hidden pockets or even an expandable design, with a laptop sleeve. FAQs Are crossbody bags good for your back? First, it must be said—if you have back pain at all, the most important thing you can do is make sure that you’re carrying a light load and the weight from your bag is distributed as evenly as possible. With that in mind, the answer is yes, crossbody bags can be good for your back. These bags tend to be lighter anyway, giving you true freedom of movement as you walk around. How can you tell a bag is waterproof? Bags that are made from nylon or polyester with a durable water-resistant (DWR) coating usually do the best job of repelling moisture. What are some security features to look for in a crossbody bag? Look for a bag with sturdy zipper closures, slash-proof straps, locking compartments, and RFID-blocking slots (to protect your credit card info from being stolen) if you’re particularly concerned about security. Why Trust TripSavvy Justine Harrington is a travel bag connoisseur who made it her mission to research and find the best crossbody bags in terms of durability, style, storage, and functionality for this piece. As such, she spent several hours combing reviews, consulting top brands, and comparing and contrasting various bag features to narrow things down. The 12 Best Messenger Bags of 2021 Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Continue to 5 of 13 below. Continue to 9 of 13 below. Continue to 13 of 13 below.