Best Travel Purses For 2023: Top 5 Compact Bags Most Recommended By Experts

As restrictions lift post-pandemic, everyone is aching to get out and have new experiences. But you may be a little rusty on the most efficient ways to travel. Having a reliable, roomy, and cute purse to take with you is a must for your next vacation. Sifting through the endless options for the best travel purses might be a little overwhelming. Don’t sweat it, we’ve got you covered.

Thinking of planning a trip? In a recent survey of Americans who have traveled internationally in the last 14 months, 66 percent have a desire to “revenge travel” — meaning they want to travel more in spite of feeling like they missed out on time and experiences due to the pandemic.

If a much-needed vacation is in your future, you’ll need to pack the essentials, like a travel purse to carry as you go exploring. After all, you don’t want to stop and buy something you’ve forgotten when you arrive. Another study notes, more than half of the respondents (56%) stress when trying to find somewhere at their destination to buy their forgotten items. 

So that got us wondering, what are the best travel purses to take along on your next trip? StudyFinds compiled a list of the five best travel purses, from ten expert websites, to bring on your next vacation. Our list is comprised of the most frequently suggested products across the reviews. As always, we’d like to see your own recommendations in the comments below!

The List: Best Travel Purses, According to Expert Reviews

 

1. Baggallini Everywhere Crossbody Bag

As the name states, you can take this bag everywhere. “This Baggallini shoulder bag is RFID-blocking, lightweight, and water-resistant, and it includes a slew of both inner and outer pockets for a variety of different uses,” notes Travel + Leisure.

Baggallini Pocket Crossbody Travel Bag with RFID
Baggallini Pocket Crossbody Travel Bag with RFID

Savored Journeys adds it has, “a secondary front pocket, as well as the main compartment, which can easily fit an iPad and lots of other things.” Grab this tote for about $100, and in a variety of colors too.

TripSavvy similarly names it as their pick for best overall travel purse. “According to our tester, the Everywhere Bagg feels substantial without being clunky. It can be worn on the shoulder or across the body and looks equally at home on your everyday commute as on your next big international trip.”

2. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

If you are looking for a smaller option to carry your valuables, this is a great choice. “With the roominess of a bigger bag, it features a locking main compartment, as well as convenient front and rear pockets. The RFID-blocking card and passport slots and the slash-resistant body and shoulder strap will give you peace of mind that your valuables are protected,” according to TripSavvy.

Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag Sling Tote
Travelon Women’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag Sling Tote

The World Was Here First deems it the best crossbody bag for your next trip to Europe. “The adjustable shoulder strap allows you to easily attach it to a chair leg or post so you don’t have to worry about someone running off with it while enjoying an espresso or glass of wine at a streetside cafe.”

It comes in several colors and costs under $50. “It’s ideal for women who prefer a small travel bag or for sightseeing days where you don’t need to bring as much with you,” notes Travel Fashion Girl.

3. Pacsafe Citysafe Convertible Backpack

The World Was Here First calls this one the ‘best backpack purse for Europe’ adding, “There are numerous compartments, all with interlocking zippers and anti-theft technology that make getting into this bag nearly impossible for thieves.”

Pacsafe Women's Citysafe Cx Anti Theft Convertible Backpack
Pacsafe Women’s Citysafe Cx Anti Theft Convertible Backpack

Price? Around $120. Wear it as a regular backpack or a crossbody. “There’s no way anyone is going to cut through the steel mesh surrounding this pack,” notes Women on the Road.

“If you’re on the hunt for a no-frills unisex anti-theft bag, then Pacsafe might be your best bet,” Travel Fashion Girl adds. “Where Pacsafe truly excels is its anti-theft backpacks. Pacsafe offers them in various sizes, including larger carry-on styles, which open from the side to give you full access to all your belongings.”

4. Longchamp Le Pilage Shoulder Tote

This classically stylish bag comes in multiple sizes depending on what you want to carry. Prices range between $100-$150, with many colors available. “This shoulder bag is large enough to hold your things but can be folded into the size of a paperback book when not in use (talk about a lightweight travel handbag!),” points out Whimsy Soul.

Longchamp Le Pliage Club Large Shoulder Tote
Longchamp Le Pliage Club Large Shoulder Tote

Overall, this tote has a high-end look at an affordable price and looks stylish on a day-to-day basis when you’re traveling,” adds The Atlas Heart.

Plus, it’s ideal for those last-minute souvenirs. “You can unfold your Longchamp carry bag, fill it up, and carry it on with ease, and they age well too so should last for years,” points out Escape.

5. Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

Hands-free fanny packs are making a comeback. This belt bag features a wide, adjustable strap for an easy fit. “Made of extremely comfortable, soft (but also durable) and water-resistant neoprene, this Dagne Dover bag is useable in a variety of real-world environments involving rain, sweat and more,” according to The Points Guy.

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Bag
Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Bag

“Along with a front and main pocket for storing your wallet, phone, and everyday essentials, there are two “hidden” pockets for cash, cards, and other valuables,” adds TripSavvy.

The cost? $95. Happy traveling!

Have your own travel bag you’d like to suggest? Please leave it in the comments section below!

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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This post may contain affiliate links.

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About the Author

Melissa Kraus

Melissa is a freelance writer, based out of New Jersey. She has over two-decades of writing, editing, and producing experience for Radio, TV, and Digital Media.

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