Tech & Gear Luggage The 8 Best Crossbody Bags of 2023 Experience hands-free convenience with our favorite crossbody bags By Jessica Macdonald Jessica Macdonald Facebook LinkedIn King's College London Jessica Macdonald lives in South Africa's Eastern Cape province and has been TripSavvy's Africa Expert since 2016. She also covers travel products and has written about everything from camping knives to climbing chalk. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines and Jordi Lippe-McGraw Jordi Lippe-McGraw Instagram Boston University Jordi is a freelance contributor to TripSavvy. Her personal passions gravitate toward wellness and adventure, leading her to frequently plan trips that blend zen relaxation with urban and rugged exploration. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 03/10/23 Share Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Getty Crossbody bags are any bag that can be worn across the body—leaving your hands free for many other activities, from wielding hiking poles or a camera on your next outdoor adventure to socializing, cocktail in hand, at the bar. They come in all shapes and sizes, including over-the-shoulder backpacks in sturdy polyester or nylon to expensive designer pieces in supple leather. This article looks at some of the best options for every travel scenario and budget. To help you find the right one, here are the best crossbody bags currently on the market. The Rundown Best Overall: Peak Gear Crossbody Backpack at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: MOSISO Sling Backpack at Amazon Jump to Review Best Splurge: Mulberry Small Amberley Satchel at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best for Travel: The North Face Jester Cross Body Pack at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Commuters: Chrome Bike Bag at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Parents: WV WELAVILA Diaper Bag Tote at Amazon Jump to Review Best Waterproof: RAINS Box Bag Large at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Sustainable: Matt & Nat Hiley Crossbody Bag at Mattandnat.com Jump to Review Table of contents Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust TripSavvy Best Overall Peak Gear Sling Compact Crossbody Backpack and Day Bag Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart What We Like Perfect, functional size Multiple pockets Adjustable shoulder strap What We Don't Like Style is quite utilitarian We love the Peak Gear Compact Crossbody Backpack as a functional all-rounder that suits many purposes while remaining relatively affordable. Available in unisex Black or Gray, it features durable, lightweight canvas. It’s weather-resistant (handy for unpredictable climates) and ideally sized. According to reviewers, it’s just big enough to fit all your essentials, from camera and keys to wallet, electronics, and essentials for your kids—without being uncomfortably bulky. The main zippered compartment is spacious, with an organizer panel to keep smaller items within easy reach. There’s also a zippered front pocket and an easy-access pouch with a magnetic closure. The latter is especially useful for taking your tablet out quickly at the airport. Finally, the shoulder strap can be moved from one side to the other, allowing for left- or right-sided wear on the back or chest. You can also adjust it for a precise fit. For complete peace of mind, the bag comes with a ReturnMe code and a lifetime guarantee. Price at time of publication: $50 Size: 13 x 7 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 11.3 ounces | Materials: Canvas Best Budget MOSISO Sling Backpack Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart What We Like Two mesh bottle holders Earphone compatible Huge choice of colors What We Don't Like Warranty valid for one year only Retailing for roughly half the price of the Peak Gear bag, the MOSISO Multipurpose Crossbody Shoulder Bag lacks name-brand cachet but offers many of the same features as its more expensive counterparts. It features lightweight polyester with a comfortable shoulder strap that’s adjusted from left to right and in length from 18 to 36 inches. Both the strap and the bag’s back panel are padded with breathable, moisture-wicking mesh, making them ideal for active pursuits or use in warm weather. The large, zippered compartment is compatible with many different iPad and tablet models. There’s also a buckle-closure pouch with an organizer panel for items you want to keep within easy reach; the zippered compartment on the front of the bag is ideal for smaller essentials. Thread your earphone cable through the purpose-built hole for on-the-go listening. Other highlights include two mesh side pockets and a wide choice of colors to suit every style, from Deep Teal to Soft Pink. Price at time of publication: $22 Size: 15.3 x 7.5 x 3.5 inches | Weight: Not published | Materials: Polyester Best Splurge Mulberry Small Amberley Satchel Mulberry View On Nordstrom View On Farfetch.com View On Mulberry.com What We Like Gorgeous equestrian styling Choice of colors and finishes Multiple wearing styles What We Don't Like Hefty price-tag Ladies with a big budget and a keen sense of style will love the Small Amberley Satchel from British fashion designer Mulberry. Made from smooth calf leather with a soft suede lining, the bag can be worn crossbody or on the shoulder, thanks to an adjustable shoulder strap that detaches completely when you want to use it as a handbag. It’s a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, with traditional equestrian styling represented by a contemporary Rider’s Lock closure and decorative stud detailing. The bag also boasts silver hardware, belt detailing on both sides, and a foil-embossed Mulberry signature. The main compartment is large enough for your purse, makeup, and other essentials, while an internal slip pocket keeps your phone and keys safe and easily accessible. From a sustainability perspective, each bag comes from a carbon-neutral factory with products from a Gold Standard tannery. Choose yours in one of several stunning colors and finishes, from Oxblood Classic Grain to Sapphire & Portobello Embossed Croc Print. Price at time of publication: $1,035 Size: 7.9 x 7 x 3.1 inches | Weight: 17.4 ounces | Materials: Bovine leather The 6 Best Travel Purses of 2023 Best for Travel The North Face Jester Cross Body Pack Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On REI What We Like Durable polyester construction Bungee attachment for larger items Concealed back pocket What We Don't Like Not big enough for most tablets If you’re looking for the perfect bag for your next trip, the Jester Crossbody Pack from The North Face is a great option. Made from hard-wearing, 600-denier recycled polyester with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, it can withstand the rigors of life on the road. It’s also compact and lightweight, making it comfortable to wear on full-day sightseeing tours or walking adventures. The sturdy shoulder strap works for crossbody compatibility or as a shoulder bag. The central compartment offers quite a bit of unstructured space and an organization panel for your pens, passport, cards, and phone. We also like the zippered pocket on the back of the bag, which keeps valuables safe against your body and away from potential thieves. You can use the bungee system on the front to attach bulkier items—a raincoat, perhaps, or a water bottle. There are many different colors to suit all tastes, from classic Black Heather to Cosmo Pink. Price at time of publication: $49 Size: 8.1 x 6 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 5.3 ounces | Materials: Recycled polyester with DWR Best for Commuters Chrome Mini Metro Messenger Bike Bag Courtesy by REI View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com View On Chromeindustries.com What We Like Water-resistant shell It fits a 13-inch laptop Choice of professional colorways What We Don't Like The laptop sleeve is sold separately The Chrome Mini Metro Messenger Bag is a smaller version of the brand’s original model, which is a long-time favorite among professional messengers. It’s our go-to pick for commuters, with plenty of features tailored to those on the move in the city. The EVA foam-padded shoulder strap is hugely comfortable, with a quick-release buckle and an integrated bottle opener. It allows for crossbody wear with easy, swing-around access. Meanwhile, reflective accents add an element of safety on night-time streets. The bag has water-resistant nylon and polyester, a floating bucket liner, and separate wet and dry compartments. So, if your umbrella gets soaked en route to work, you can stash it without getting the rest of your belongings wet. The main compartment is large enough for a 13-inch laptop, while the envelope-style flap reveals an additional zippered essentials pocket, an organizer panel for your phone and pens, and daisy chain mounting loops. Compression straps keep everything securely in place when you’re running for the metro. Price at time of publication: $125 Size: 20 x 12 x 7 inches | Weight: 2.4 pounds | Materials: Nylon and polyester Best for Parents WV WELAVILA Diaper Bag Tote Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers 14 purpose-built pockets Included changing mat What We Don't Like Relatively heavy when fully packed As every parent of small children knows, kids require a lot of stuff. You can fit all of it into the WELAVILA Convertible Diaper Bag Tote, which can also be worn as a crossbody bag thanks to its detachable, padded shoulder strap. It’s made of long-lasting, water-resistant polyester and has a spacious main compartment with a wide opening – no more rummaging blindly around in search of what you need. With no fewer than 14 pockets, organization comes easily. Three are insulated to keep baby’s bottles warm (or cool), while a large waterproof pocket accommodates soiled clothes and reusable diapers. There’s an easy-access side pocket with a slit for dispensing wet wipes, while zippered exterior pockets help keep your personal items handy. The bag has a padded changing mat, while steel studs keep the base off the floor when you’re on nappy duty in a public bathroom. Finally, the stylish unisex light or dark gray design makes it an excellent accessory for Mom or Dad. Price at time of publication: $45 Size: 15.7 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 2.4 pounds | Materials: Polyester The 12 Best Travel Diaper Bags of 2023 Best Waterproof RAINS Box Bag Large Rains View On Nordstrom View On Rains.com What We Like Multiple ways of wearing Practical and stylish Interior and exterior pockets What We Don't Like Relatively expensive Some of the other bags on this list are water-resistant, but if you’re looking for a fully waterproof crossbody option, opt for the Large Box Bag from RAINS instead. Crafted from the brand’s signature PU fabric, it features coated zippers and will protect your valuables from rain, sleet, and snow. You can wear it crossbody or on the shoulder using the adjustable webbing strap, or unclip the carabiner attachments and carry it handbag-style instead. As well as being eminently practical, the bag is a fashion statement. It boasts a minimal, boxy silhouette and a tactile texture, with colorways ranging from Black to Sand, Ink, or Straw. The main compartment offers some structure with two easy-access pockets. There are also two zippered pockets on the front of the bag and another concealed zippered pocket on the back. You should be able to fit your daily essentials, small electronic devices, and an additional layer. Price at time of publication: $110 Size: 9.8 x 7.1 x 3.9 inches | Weight: 16.6 ounces | Materials: PU fabric Best Sustainable Matt & Nat Hiley Vegan Crossbody Bag Matt & Nat View On Mattandnat.com What We Like Made from recycled materials PETA-approved cruelty-free Simple, compact style What We Don't Like Small size limits versatility The Matt & Nat HILEY Vegan Crossbody Bag is the perfect choice for women who prioritize sustainability and want a lightweight purse for holding small accessories (think phone, keys, wallet, passport, makeup… but not too much more). It offers a simple yet attractive design from a brand committed to 100 percent sustainable materials and ethical practices. It even carries a cruelty-free stamp of approval from the animal rights charity PETA. The exterior fabric is biodegradable PU. The interior lining features 100 percent recycled plastic water bottles (in total, the company saves more than 9 million bottles from landfill annually). The strap is adjustable for crossbody or on-the-shoulder use, while two zippered compartments make up the storage space—the larger of which folds envelope-style over the smaller one. Choose from various beautiful, fashion-forward colors, including Tulip, Espresso, and Citrine. Price at time of publication: $130 Size: 8 x 7 x 1.5 inches | Weight: Not published | Materials: PU fabric, recycled water bottles What to Look for in a Crossbody Bag Price With so much variety in the crossbody bag genre, it’s not surprising that prices vary widely too. Bags on this list range from just over $20 for a polyester crossbody rucksack to over $1,000 for a designer leather bag. Depending on what kind of crossbody bag you’re looking for, there’s likely to be some price difference even within sub-categories. Generally, spending as much as you can afford on a durable product with quality materials and construction is a good idea, as you’ll likely save money in the long run. Check user reviews for an idea of the bag’s true value based on how it holds up in real life. Material Crossbody bags can feature any number of materials depending on their intended use. Hard-wearing polyester or nylon are ideal for a day-to-day companion suitable for traveling, sightseeing, hiking, and similar activities. Those who live in areas where inclement weather is the norm may want to invest in a fully waterproof bag, in which case PU fabric is one of the most popular choices, while bags designed as fashion statements above anything else often have luxurious leather. If sustainability is a priority, look for a bag that only uses recycled, cruelty-free materials. Capacity Crossbody bags come in a vast range of sizes—in terms of weight and bulk, the only limit is what you can comfortably carry over one shoulder. The right size depends on what you want to use it for. Looking for a cute purse for nights out at the bar? You’ll only need enough room for essentials such as your phone, keys, wallet, and makeup. Packing for an all-day sightseeing tour? You’ll need something bigger, with space for anything from your camera to an extra layer. Some laptop bags, diaper bags, and even weekend duffels can also qualify as a crossbody bag and must be much larger to fulfill their intended purpose. Pockets No matter what kind of crossbody bag you’re looking for, pockets help provide structure and organization—even if it’s just a single internal slip pocket to make locating your keys or phone easier. Larger bags usually have multiple internal and external pockets of varying sizes. These are especially important for parents or anyone else who has a lot of things to keep easily accessible. Padded pockets are a bonus for those transporting tablets or laptops, while commuters or those concerned about pickpockets may appreciate a concealed pocket or even one with RFID-blocking fabric. Frequently Asked Questions How can you tell a bag is waterproof? Many of the bags on this list are water-resistant, which means they offer some protection from light showers. Fully waterproof bags are meant for sustained downpours and have waterproof materials with coated zippers and welded seams. Read the product description carefully—it should specifically mention “waterproof” rather than “water-resistant.” IPX ratings help determine water protection, too, with anything from IPX1 to IPX6 offering varying degrees of water resistance and IPX7 or higher able to withstand submersion. What features prevent theft? Crossbody bags are naturally less likely to tempt thieves than bags worn over the shoulder, simply because they’re harder to snatch or tamper with without detection. Specific anti-theft features to look out for include anti-slash fabric, pockets with double zippers that can be padlocked together, reinforced shoulder straps, and RFID-blocking pockets that prevent cyber thieves from reading the electromagnetic data contained on your cards or passport. Several bags on our list also include a concealed pocket for storing valuables, usually on the side closest to your body. What size crossbody bag is best? The optimum size for a crossbody bag is a very personal choice that depends entirely on what you’ll likely use it for. If you plan on purchasing one for your next sightseeing or hiking trip, you may want enough space for a water bottle, snacks, a camera, an extra layer, and daily essentials, including your wallet and phone. Parents of small children will need even more room for everything from diapers to changes of clothes, while crossbody evening bags prioritize fashion over space and needn’t hold more than your phone, cards, keys, and makeup. Why Trust TripSavvy Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a frequent contributor of commerce articles relating to adventure and family travel. For this article, she spent several hours reading industry reviews and round-ups of different types of crossbody bags, then compared the specifications, price, and user reviews of more than 20 individual products to choose the category winners listed above. The 8 Best Messenger Bags of 2023 Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Continue to 5 of 8 below.