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If you’re heading to Europe, a purse or bag is a major essential for your day-to-day outings, and you’ll need to make sure it’s practical, safe, and cute, too. Check out this thorough guide to the best purses for travel that tick all the boxes!
Best Travel Purses for Women
Table Of Contents
When packing for a trip to Europe, you’ll want to make sure you bring a purse that’s secure, functional, and fashionable! Plus, the style you choose should accommodate how much you need to carry and the activities you’ll be doing.
A good example is the purse I took to Europe in 2022, which s a sleek crossbody, the Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B. It has an edgy stud design and a polished sheen, and enough organization that I could manage my essentials while out and about. I felt confident and put together carrying it around, and it’s definitely become a purse that I use for travel and at home. (The black color pictured below is no longer available, but you can get other colors at Rebecca Minkoff–take a look here!)
In Europe, with my Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody and wearing the Gevomir Halter Dress with Taos Star Sneakers, and Madewell Sun Hat
I was able to take my Rebecca Minkoff crossbody for sightseeing around the island of Santorini, all the way to the Colosseum in Rome, transitioning from day to night easily. Security, but also versatility, matters when it comes to the best purses to travel Europe.
Below, find out what style of bag is best, as well as how to keep your belongings safe while you explore the history and romance of Europe. Enjoy this ultimate guide to cute womens travel purse options that boast comfort, security, and style!
The adorable Lola Mae Crossbody is budget-friendly and stylish for Europe
What’s the Best Purse for Travel to Europe?
Crossbody purses are usually a top choice among readers for European travel, as they’re comfortable and easy to carry, great for visiting museums, and are overall super convenient to use. They’ll also keep your things secure, as the bag will be visible to you at all times, and securely strapped around your body.
If you’ll be out and about for long periods of time and need to bring more things with you, or if you’re traveling with your family, a backpack is the way to go. They’ll offer plenty of room for jackets, snacks, water bottles, a camera, and any other sightseeing must-haves! Plus, they’ll distribute the weight on both of your shoulders, which will feel a lot more comfortable throughout your explorations.
One of the most popular backpacks for Europe is the Lo & Sons Rowledge
If you like to carry only the essentials, like your phone, wallet, keys, and lip balm, opt for a fanny pack or a sling bag. These bags are often convertible, so you can wear them on your waist or around your shoulders, and because they’re compact, they’re super light and easy to carry around all day.
This MZ Wallace Belt Bag is stylish and practical because it stays close to the body!
If you want to be minimalist, bring a crossbody phone purse! Many of these styles have a built-in wallet, so everything you need will be safely carried around your neck and easy to reach. Readers love crossbody phone bags and cases because they not only make it easy to grab your phone and quickly snap the perfect photo, but having it close to your body means your valuables are extra safe and sound, and won’t run the risk of being dropped or stolen.
Travelon Anti-Theft Purses are highly popular for European cities for safety and security
Do I Need an Anti Theft Travel Purse in Europe?
Many readers love the security of theft proof travel purses while they travel so they can have the utmost peace of mind. If you’re going to be carrying valuables like a camera, a wallet with cash and cards, a passport, or any other special items, using an anti-theft purse might be the best purse to travel with. TFGs recommend Travelon, Pacsafe, and Sherpani (as an excellent budget option) the most as top brands that have built-in security features and cute-looking bags!
However, if you want to carry around something a bit more fashionable, simple, or just have a particular style of purse in mind, there are many other ways you can deter theft and stay safe while you travel!
One product that readers recommend for non-anti-theft bags is a locking keychain carabiner that you can use to clip your phone case or keys to your purse, or even to clip the straps of your purse together.
The best travel money belt voted by readers is the Alpha Keeper
Other popular options are a money belt and a secret bra stash. Read this article on the best anti-theft travel accessories for more great ideas!
While Europe is generally very safe, pickpocketing and theft can definitely happen, especially in tourist-heavy or overly crowded areas, but there are plenty of ways to keep your things safe, whether you use an anti-theft bag or take extra security measures. Find out how best to avoid pickpocketing in Europe here, and some awesome general tips for avoiding theft while traveling here!
Now, let’s break down more ideas for the best purse to travel to Europe that readers vote for again and again!
If you’re unsure what kind of day bag to bring, read this tip guide on how to choose the right one!
Best Crossbody Travel Purse for Europe
The wonderful thing about travel crossbody purses is that they’re highly versatile! They can be used for travel solely or also used in everyday life. And many are also convertible, so they can be worn across the shoulder or slung over during casual outings. And, of course, ones with anti-theft features like RFID technology, locking zippers, etc., make the grade for European travel, like these top reader picks!
Shop: Amazon
Travelon Signature Travel Purse Crossbody Bag
If you’re looking for the utmost in safety, readers agree that Travelon is the best crossbody purse for travel. Their safe travel purses, like the Signature are equipped with all the safety features you could need, from locking zippers and slash-resistant material to RFID-blocking pockets and lock-down straps that you can secure to a chair or table. Beyond its amazing security, their bags are easy to carry and has plenty of room for storing your essentials – including things like an iPad.
One reader absolutely loves hers, “I’ve had my Travelon crossbody bag since 2015, and it has been all around the world with me! It holds SO much stuff and has held up great!”
You can stick with the sleeker-looking Travelon Signature purse that’s excellent for the fashionable streets of Europe. Or the Classic Essential messenger bag is another reader favorite that’s simple and compact in design yet works perfectly as a secure day bag as well.
Shop: Quince
Quince Small Travel Purse Crossbody
From the quality leather to the gold hardware, this Quince Italian Leather small cross body travel purse is a stunning option for Europe. Not only is it a chic accessory, but it’s just spacious enough to store your sightseeing necessities while keeping things minimal and lightweight. This purse is thoughtfully constructed with a durable canvas lining, an inner zip pocket to keep your valuables safe, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit.
And for such wonderful quality, the price is fantastic. One reviewer says, “This bag is so beautiful – lovely, high-quality leather, zipper works perfectly, and exactly the right size. It fits my larger wallet, phone, small makeup bag, and sunglasses – perfect for traveling or a day out. I pack this in my suitcase when I travel, so I have it for days out exploring.”
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Tumi
Tumi Tyler Stylish Travel Purse Crossbody
For the best travel purse crossbody for European getaways, readers often look to Tumi purses, which combine great utility with impeccable style. The Tyler crossbody bag is a chic little option that will securely hold your necessities while you’re out and about. Readers say that despite its small design, it can hold a great amount, and when not in use, it conveniently packs flat!
A reader who loves her Tumi travel purses says, “The pocket on the front is great for plane tickets and passports when flying. I use them as everyday bags as well. I love them because they can dress up or down and look great for work travel or personal travel. And mine have taken a beating and still look great. I also know from other bags that they stand by the warranty.”
Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in this review!
Baggallini Calais Anti-Theft Travel Purses Crossbody
When it comes to travel purses with RFID Baggallini is a traveler’s best friend! The Calais crossbody is lightweight and highly practical for sightseeing days. The fabric is water-resistant and has RFID-blocking technology, and it comes in a range of fun colors and patterns. This purse has great interior organization and is so stylish it can go from a long day at the Louvre to a Parisian dinner easily!
One user gives their review, “Perfect size for my European travel. It has lots of nooks and spaces for things, great outside pockets, interior dividers, and a key lanyard, which I keep tucked in the back snap pocket. It’s cute too!”
Shop: Madewell
Madewell Sydney Small Purse for Travel
This cute travel purse from Madewell looks compact, but it opens wide to fit plenty of items for the day – users say it’s shockingly roomy! Super functional for your travels, the Sydney comes with an adjustable and removable crossbody strap and will keep your things safe inside with a strong, magnetic closure. The color options for the leather are pretty and so unique, too!
One happy user says, “Perfect for travel! Cute and stylish, it can be worn casually or for a night on the town. Love it! And great quality as always!”
Shop: Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons Pearl Small Crossbody Purse for Travel
Beautiful, versatile, and beyond functional, it’s no wonder the Lo & Sons Pearl women’s crossbody travel purse is so popular with TFG readers! It has three compartments and plenty of variously-sized pockets, so if you like every item to have a designated space, you’ll adore this bag. It’s constructed with high-quality leather that’s not only available in a wide range of colors, but also comes in a vegan leather version!
As a bonus, you can switch up the straps to turn it from a crossbody by day to a wristlet by night. A reader shares, “I love my Pearl. Perfect for travel! I used it all summer as my everyday bag, it’s been tossed around and well-traveled, and there’s not a mark on it.”
Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review!
Sherpani Prima Anti Theft Purse for Travel
Sherpani offers some of the best anti theft travel purse options that are cute and affordable. The Prima is a small purse that is durable but has some nice styling to still feel Euro-chic. This has great features, including water-resistant fabric and many interior pockets!
As a major bonus, it has a lot of anti-theft features, including RFID protection, lockable zippers, and a chair loop lock system, as well as slash-proof straps and lining. One reader reports, “Had peace of mind while traveling in European cities. Easy to carry, the strap could not be cut, RFID protection, and comfortable.”
Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review!
Shop: MZ Wallace | Bloomingdale’s
MZ Wallace Crosby Cross Body Purse for Travel
Both chic and edgy, the MZ Wallace Crosby women’s travel purse is a perfect option if you like a larger bag but still want something crossbody and easy to carry. This purse features a lovely quilted design with leather trim and silver hardware, while the interior is amazingly practical, with durable lining, six pockets, a detachable pouch, a phone pocket, and a key ring strap!
You can switch it up from a crossbody to a shoulder bag with different straps, too. A reader says, “I love my MZ Wallace crossbody. It comes with three straps, so it’s versatile for travel and everyday use, and you can dress it up with the chain strap.”
To complement your cross body, try an adorable wristlet, like the ones found here!
Best Travel Backpack Purse for Europe
Some travelers feel nervous carrying around a backpack while exploring Europe, which is valid! Readers recommend packs with hidden or secret pockets or buying one that has anti-theft features. And, of course, it’s wise to not put anything important in front pockets, just in case. Whatever pack you choose, TFGs all agree it should be a combination of cute and functional—see the following reader recommendations to see what we mean!
Shop: Amazon | Macy’s | Kohl’s
Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Lightweight Purses for Travel
Roam around with complete peace of mind in one of Travelon’s best anti theft purses for travel, the Signature Slim backpack that readers adore! It’s roomy but not heavy or bulky, has a classic and versatile design, and with all the incredible anti-theft features (including slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking card slots), everything inside will be super secure.
And as if it wasn’t travel-friendly enough, the sleek material is water and stain resistant! One reader says, “I took this backpack with me to Europe and loved it. I kept all my important things in it, and nothing was stolen in Prague, Paris, or Munich!”
Tumi Large Travel Purse Backpack
Tumi’s chic bags are always a go-to for readers and are said to be some of the best purses for European travel due to their chic style and practicality. The Voyageur Celina backpack which is a similar to Carson is perfect if you need to tote around a larger amount of items, as it’s quite spacious. There are plenty of zippered pockets, both inside and outside, and there’s even a padded laptop sleeve!
This bag will hold up amazingly well over time and will always add a sophisticated element to your travel looks! One reader shares, “I used a Tumi Voyageur Carson backpack daily when I was flying weekly for work. It took a ton of abuse/spills, etc., and cleaned up great. Years later, it still looks nearly new. Very worth the money.”
Shop: Longchamp | Bloomingdale’s | Nordstrom
Longchamp Le Pliage Lightweight Travel Purse Backpack
Always a reader fave, the Le Pliage womens travel backpack purse is high quality and majorly chic. Inside the durable nylon exterior is a water-resistant lining and plenty of room for a day’s worth of necessities. This stunning bag is perfect for wandering through the high-fashion streets of Paris, but makes a great personal item on flights, too!
As a plus, it neatly folds flat for easy storing when not in use. One reader shares, “I love mine. Holds lots of items, opens easily to get things in and out, and feels secure.”
Read more about why readers consider this bag the best backpack purse for travel in the full review here!
Shop: Rebecca Minkoff | Zappos | Bloomingdale’s
Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Travel Purse Backpack
Many TFG readers say the Julian backpack from Rebecca Minkoff is the best small travel purse! This beautiful leather purse for European travel is ultra-practical, with three compartments and tons of pockets to keep everything secure and organized, including a secret back pocket that’s perfect for storing money and other valuables. It’s spacious inside, and can be dressed down for sightseeing or dressed up for a nice dinner!
One reader says, “I LOVE this bag for travel and use it as my purse/personal item. It easily holds everything I need for a day out and about — my friends call it my Mary Poppins bag!”
You can also get this cute bag in the smaller Medium size, or in the larger Jumbo size. Find out more about this backpack in the full review here!
Shop: Amazon
Pacsafe CX Citysafe Secure Travel Purse Backpack
Another fantastic anti-theft option, readers consider this Pacsafe Citysafe backpack one of the best travel purse backpack options for Europe. Adorable look aside, this bag boasts great organization with plenty of pockets while weighing in at just under a pound, not to mention its great security features! Some readers call it the safest purse for travel, with its interlocking zippers, cut-resistant straps and fabric, and RFID-blocking technology,
Not only that, but this versatile beauty has a trolley sleeve. A reviewer shares their experience, “I ordered this backpack for my recent trip to Europe. I used it as my personal item on my flights, and it fit perfectly on my carry on luggage, so I didn’t have to lug it around. I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of stuff I was able to fit inside. Overall, I felt like my personal belongings were safe and secure through my travels in Budapest and Hungary. I definitely recommend this backpack!”
Looking for a backpack with a trolley sleeve? Find the best here!
Best Convertible Backpack Purse for Europe
One thing readers express a lot regarding a capsule wardrobe is having enough outfit options without overpacking, and this sentiment extends to travel purses for Europe! The solution to not bringing several bags is choosing one that can be worn in many ways. The most popular type is a backpack that converts into a shoulder bag, crossbody, or a tote. These uber-cute choices will pair beautifully with any travel outfit!
Travelon Classic Convertible Secure Travel Purses
Tiny but mighty, this Travelon anti-theft backpack purse for European travel is perfectly compact, simple in style, and super secure. All of the compartments lock, the material is fully slash-resistant, and the interior has RFID blocking card and passport slots. It can hold the day’s essentials – and maybe even a few souvenirs!
And at under a pound, it definitely won’t weigh you down! One traveler raves, “I had Travelon bags in the past, so I was looking for one to use on my recent trip to Europe. I really like the security features with the zipper locks and RFID pockets. This backpack was the perfect size for me; not too small and not huge either. I converted it to a crossbody purse a few times. I highly recommend this bag, especially for traveling!”
Shop: Amazon | Zappos | Walmart
Baggallini Soho Safe Travel Purse Convertible Backpack
You’ll have peace of mind in knowing that your belongings are safe and sound inside this convertible Baggallini safety travel purse. It offers lockable, pickpocket-proof zippers, a removable RFID-protected wristlet, and slash-proof fabric and straps!
It has a luggage sleeve, a laptop compartment, and water-resistant material, and still manages to be very lightweight and comfortable to carry. You can switch how you wear it too! One reader puts it simply, “My Baggallini bag has been a perfect travel purse for years.”
The Naples convertible backpack is a daintier option that’s very popular with readers and is perfect for the bare essentials, but chic enough to tote in Europe!
Shop: Amazon
Telena Anti Theft Backpack Purse for Travel
Telena’s cute anti theft purses for travel offer incredible security, organization, and durability all in one beautiful package! This backpack is made of soft, water-resistant faux leather, and uniquely zips open from the back to keep your belongings safe. Aside from the roomy main compartment that has quite a few pockets, there’s a secure front zipper pocket, a side zipper pocket, and two side pouches, so keeping your things in order will be a breeze!
One traveler says, “I’ve used this backpack as a purse for a few months, including dragging it all over Europe for 2 1/2 weeks. Somehow it still looks brand new! I love the security of the big pocket being up against my back for those tight subway rides, and the many other pockets make it easy to store a lot and stay organized. The fabric is scratch and water-resistant, too.”
Shop: Amazon | Sherpani | Zappos
Sherpani Soleil RFID Travel Purse Backpack
Readers rave about how functional the Sherpani Soleil theft proof purses for travel are! The fabric is lightweight, water-resistant, and super durable, so it makes a wonderful travel buddy for sightseeing in the city. It offers a great amount of storage space with TONS of pockets both inside and out, including two open side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas.
As a major bonus, it has great anti-theft features, including lockable zippers, anti-slash fabric, and a handy chair loop lock system so that no one can take off with it when you set it down!
Readers seriously love this Europe travel purse! One gives an impressive review, “I have traveled for eight years with this mini backpack. No matter how much I fill it, it evenly distributes the weight and isn’t heavy. The anti-theft features make it something no one wants to even try messing with on crowded trains or crowds in general. A must-have travel investment!”
This Cheruty backpack is a more casual-looking option that readers love, and it has great anti-theft features, too!
For even more convertible backpack, review these reader faves!
Best Sling or Belt Bag for Europe
Sometimes the best purse to travel in Europe is something small and compact! The trend of sling bags and fanny packs shows no signs of going away, and readers love them to look less conspicuous but also love that they sit close to the body and hold sightseeing essentials. Maybe one of these stylish picks will call to you!
Shop: Amazon | Macy’s | Kohl’s
Travelon Anti-Theft Convertible Mini Travel Purse Sling
Wander around your European destination with complete comfort and security wearing Travelon’s Metro anti-theft belt bag! The main compartment has a zippered pocket, RFID-blocking card slots, a key clip, and plenty of room for a phone, wallet, sunglasses, and a few must-have cosmetics, and securely locks shut! The clean look will match all of your travel outfits, and wearers say it’ll last for years and years of travel!
You can also carry it crossbody to switch it up! One TFG reader wore hers in Barcelona and says, “I used the Travelon fanny pack every day. The zippers all latched, and I had very easy access to my phone, metro card, glasses, and credit cards. A bonus was that my neck didn’t get achy from a heavy purse. This was absolutely perfect for international travel, and I’ll definitely use it on all future trips!”
Shop: Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Leather Travel Purses/Sling Bags
Talk about a cute travel purse! If you’re looking to travel light, the Lo & Sons cross body purses for travel will make a gorgeous addition to your travel wardrobe! Made of sleek, high-quality leather (which is also available in a vegan leather option), it’s sized to fit just the necessities. It’ll elevate any sightseeing outfit and will work with your dressier, going-out looks, too!
Wear it on your waist, crossbody, or as a wristlet! One user says, “Took this bag to Europe for my honeymoon, and wow – it was the best. Went with every outfit, was easy and versatile to use, fit all of my essentials for full days of walking around and exploring, and was great for walking through the airport hands-free. Loved it so much I bought a second in another color.”
Readers also recommend the Bond, a cute fanny pack that’s a tad more spacious, has plenty of pockets and an antimicrobial lining, and can also be worn on your waist or as a crossbody!
Shop: Amazon
INICAT Small Travel Purses/Sling Bags
INICAT’s best small purse for travel is a must if you want something super compact yet still practical. It’s lightweight, comfy to carry, and designed to fit all of your little essentials for the day’s adventures with two zippered compartments and four card slots. The adjustable strap will fit securely around your body and can be worn on your front or back. It’s made of quality faux leather that looks sleek and stylish and comes in a lot of colors!
One user shares, “Used this while traveling to London and Paris. It was perfect to hold my documents/credit cards/phone etc. Didn’t look like a tourist and kept my items safe from theft on the metro/museums etc. It was very comfortable and very convenient for quick access to my items. Would highly recommend it!”
Shop: Monos
Monos Metro Vegan Leather Travel Purse Sling
This gorge Monos Metro sling bag is constructed with water-resistant and scratch-resistant ultra-microfiber vegan leather that’ll look great with everything and hold up well throughout many, many travel adventures! It’s small yet packable, with interior pockets, a keychain carabiner, and a hidden back pocket to keep your phone, wallet, or passport extra secure. It can be adjusted and worn in a variety of ways for an amazingly comfy fit that moves with you.
One wearer says, “I bought this sling for a two-week trip to Europe. It fit so much but didn’t feel large across my chest. It went with every outfit of the trip. I always felt that my belongings were safe while traveling!”
Want more small, cute bags? These best sling bags might do the trick!
Best Tote Bags for Europe
While it may not seem like an obvious choice, the best totes for travel can also double as a bag for your European trip! They can be a personal onboard item, a sightseeing option, or even be used to store souvenirs for the journey home. And bonus, most travel-friendly totes pack flat. Take a look at these practical and gorgeous picks!
Travelon Womens Tote Bags
Travelon’s travel totes for women can be worn on your shoulder or as a crossbody, and while it’s amazingly functional in design, it has a simple and sleek look, too! It can fit a ton and has all the bases covered in terms of preventing theft, with lock-down straps that you can secure to stationary objects, locking zippers, and slash-proof and RFID-blocking material.
To top it off, this tote has awesome organization, water and dirt-resistant fabric, and a pretty, versatile look to pair with all of your travel outfits.
One user reports, “Best secure travel purse that doesn’t look like one! Took it on a three-week Europe trip and didn’t want to carry anything else. Holds a ton without being bulky, can be worn multiple ways, and has a great number and placement of pockets.”
For a more relaxed womens black tote bag, the Travelon Boho is quilted fabric but is equally as chic, and has room for a 15.6″ laptop. It has RFID protection and numerous organizational pockets. It comes in more than black, as you can choose between Gray Heather and Mosaic Tile.
Shop: Amazon | Tumi | Nordstrom
Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Large Tote Bags for Women
The Tumi Packable womens travel tote bags are a huge favorite among travelers who know they’ll be bringing some goodies home from their vacation! It packs down into a teeny pouch for easy packing into your suitcase or storing when not in use, and opens up into a super spacious and durable tote bag equipped with sturdy handles and a trolley sleeve for easy carrying!
And the print is so fun! One TFG says, “I love it! It’s big but so lightweight and folds small!”
Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon/Leather Tote Bags for Women
You can’t go wrong with these chic Longchamp Le Pliage womens large tote bags – they’re versatile, classic, and big enough to hold the travel necessities, plus a sweater and a souvenir or two! The Le Pliage tote is made of smooth, sturdy, and water-resistant nylon embellished with quality leather trim, and is lightweight and easy to carry. It comes in a range of colors and folds flat for easy storage!
Tons of TFG readers say these are the best tote bags for women, and one reader reports, “Love mine. It usually heads to Europe in my suitcase and then I use it there and carry it home!”
Choose from the medium or large size depending on how much space you need throughout your travels! They also have sustainably-made canvas tote bags for women. They’re also available in medium and large.
Shop: Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons Seville Womens Tote Bag
If organization is important to you, you’ll adore the Lo & Sons Seville laptop totes for women! Inside this bag, you’ll find a TON of variously-sized pockets as well as a padded laptop sleeve, and on the outside, a large front zipper pocket for your easy-to-reach essentials. Aside from the practicality, the structured nylon and leather trim make it a super cute accessory, too!
One reader raves, “Lo & Sons bags are my favorite! The Seville tote is excellent.”
Shop: Amazon | Zappos | Macy’s
Baggallini Avenue Travel Tote Bags for Women
This one is a major favorite with TFG readers! Casual yet cute, Baggallini’s Avenue womens laptop tote bag is the perfect go-to bag for a day of sightseeing, as it’ll hold everything you need and feel comfy on your shoulder all day! It’s super lightweight, with sturdy, water-resistant fabric, and interior organizational pockets and card slots.
More great features of this tote include a 13” laptop compartment, a removable and adjustable crossbody strap, a trolley sleeve, and the fact that it’s machine washable! One reader shares, “It has great space inside for everything I need. Love how spacious it is, and it slips over my luggage handle as well. Highly recommend it if you travel a lot!”
Shop: Amazon | Sherpani | Zappos
Sherpani Cali Anti-Theft Large Totes for Women
Another great anti-theft option, Sherpani’s Cali laptop tote bags for women are cute, roomy, and comfortable to carry. There are plenty of interior pockets – including a water bottle pocket and a laptop sleeve, plus it has exterior pockets, RFID protection, lockable zippers, and a chair loop lock system to keep your belongings completely safe and sound. The Cali tote is made of quality nylon fabric which makes it lightweight, water-resistant, and durable!
A user says, “This bag is the perfect size for me! It’s secure and has plenty of pockets! I love Sherpani!!”
For more stylish travel totes, read this post to scour for extra ideas!
Best Crossbody Phone Purse for Europe
When on a European trip, it only makes sense to keep our phone inside a bigger purse, right? Not always! Some readers use small purses for travel that hold only a phone and a few pieces like ID or cards to be photo-ready or look up directions easily while combining that with another bag while on the go. If it’s a light sightseeing day and you don’t want to take a lot with you, but still want access to a device, just taking your crossbody phone purse works well! Readers adore and trust these options to keep their devices safe (plus, these are so chic and would look fab with any capsule wardrobe).
Bandolier Emma Phone Crossbody Purses for Travel
If you want to keep things ultra minimal, this Emma crossbody case from Bandolier is all you need! This phone case crossbody is super popular with readers, and it makes the perfect chic accessory that’ll keep your valuables safe and close by at all times. It’s made of high-quality leather and has a rear pocket for cards and cash that snaps shut and an adjustable strap.
The Sarah crossbody case is a similar design, but the strap is adorned with gold studs!
A reader says, “I bought mine for a trip to France and have used it many times since. The best part is being able to easily look at your phone and take pictures without taking your phone out of your bag or pocket all the time, and it keeps you looking polished in the nice leather case.”
Shop: Amazon
LAMEEKU Travel Crossbody Purse
Lameeku’s crossbody is another secure and functional option that doubles as a stylish accessory. It features a long, adjustable strap and a zippered wallet on the back with room for cards and some cash, plus it’s lined with RFID-blocking technology, so all your valuables will be safe and in sight at all times. The quilted faux leather adds a chic element and comes in three colors!
One TFGer says, “I have this crossbody phone case and love it! No need to open your purse to pay, you can just scan. And it has a little pouch for your ID and cash!”
As an alternative to phone crossbody purses, readers have suggested phone lanyards that attach to your existing phone case to keep them safe both from being dropped while taking photos or from being lost or stolen. Readers also like this short coiled tether that can be attached to the inside of a purse or can be worn as a secure wristlet. This phone lanyard with two strap options is another highly recommended pick for sightseeing!
Shop: Quince
Quince Phone Crossbody Travel Purses
This phone crossbody purse from Quince will hold your phone, cards, cash, and even a few other items like sunglasses and lip balm. Crafted from beautiful pebbled leather, which comes in a range of colors, it’ll keep your essentials organized and at the ready during your travel explorations. It’s versatile, super secure, looks really cute, and is of amazing quality, all at a budget-minded price point!
A user shares more, “This is the perfect little crossbody! Fits my phone and keys and has a few credit card slots built in! The leather is high quality, and the bag is well constructed with clean stitching and simple hardware.”
Find out the best ways to keep your phone safe while traveling here!
Best Messenger Bags for Europe
A classic messenger bag tends to be bulkier and used for commuters, but the travel messenger bag can be lightweight, cute, AND hold a tablet or small laptop (should you need to use one during your trip). The following range goes from standard purses to bags that can hold a bit more if needed! Did we mention they’re adorable too?
Shop: Amazon | Macy’s | Walmart
Travelon Anti-Theft Small Messenger Bags for Women
Travelon’s slim messenger bag is compact and easy to wear, yet can fit a great amount. Equipped with slash-proof fabric, locking compartments, and RFID-blocking tech, no one will be able to get inside this bag but you! And for more functionality, they’ve added a roomy front pocket and a removable LED light!
A reader reports, “I bought this for a recent trip to Europe. It was the perfect size to carry a day’s worth of touring necessities—a camera, wallet, hat, phone, iPad, maps, travel booklets, and souvenirs. I felt safe even in London and Amsterdam.”
Shop: Amazon
Ecosusi Faux Leather Messenger Bag
Ecosusi’s faux leather messengers are beyond cute, pairing a classic style with unique details and functional features. These stylish messanger bags have multiple pockets for organization and a padded laptop sleeve which makes this awesome if you’re traveling for work. The exterior is sleek, high quality, and super durable, and it comes in a variety of color options!
A reader raves, “I love this bag. I travel a lot and needed something that was not only durable but also comfortable to carry. The adjustable shoulder strap makes this one of the most comfortable bags I’ve run through an airport with. Fits my laptop, power cord, and some files. Perfect purchase!”
Shop: Away
Away F.A.R. Messenger Tote Bags
Away makes super cool messenger bags that are streamlined yet offer incredible organization for a girl on the go. The fabric is super sturdy, abrasion-resistant, and water-resistant–ready for everything from a hike to wandering around museums. But it’s also lightweight enough to counter all of the travel necessities you bring and goodies you pick up along the way!
Bonus points go to the responsibly-sourced, recycled materials and fun color options!
Shop: Amazon
Time Resistance Leather Messanger Bags
This leather messenger bags womens option from Time Resistance is stunning! It’s a great purse if you’re looking for something a bit smaller, but with three compartments and a secure zip pocket, you’ll be able to easily fit the essentials and then some! To top it all off, this leather crossbody messenger bag is adjustable, comfortable to carry, and is handmade in Italy with gorgeous, high-quality leather!
A user shares more, “I love my bag. The leather is full grain which is the best you can get. There are so many pockets and zippers, making organization a breeze. It’s understated but classic.”
Want to see what other messenger bag options out there? Check out our roundup on the best!
What do you think is the best purse for European travel? Share and comment below!
For more travel bags for Europe, please read:
- What are the Best Travel Bags with Trolley Sleeve?
- Best Laptop Bags for Women Travelers
- Best Convertible Backpack Purses
- Best Camera Bags for Women
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I have used travelon bags alot in the past. They can last, even with how I am with my daily bags. The can go through a lot of abuse. I might try out one of the other brands in this article in the future.
I love my Travelon crossbody. I still hold it in front of me, but it does make me feel more secure. Thieves are not looking for people who are paying attention!
I learned my lesson back in 2016 when I had my wallet stolen in pure daylight at noon, on one of the busiest shopping streets in Rome. Have no idea how it happened, but one girl “bumped” into me and next thing I know my crossbody bag was unzipped and wallet gone. I have definitely been more careful and bought safety latches for my daughter’s LuluLemon fanny pack when she did her semester in Rome last year.
Thank you so very much for doing all the research that went into writing this article. I love reading your blog entry cause you always have links and pictures for the items you are talking about. As someone who doesn’t have a lot of money to spend on accessories for travel (after getting hotels and cars for travel) I would love to see budget friendly options alongside regular/high end options.
I love this article! There are abundant colors, shapes, and sizes in purses to choose from. I see a few that I own. My go-to right now is the Longchamp Le Pliage Lightweight Travel Purse Backpack.
Thank you so much for this article. As someone who travels quite a bit I’m always trying to find a more comfortable, stylish, and sleek bag for my travels. A good combo between a purse and backpack is hard to find. You’ve introduced me to some new potential ones to choose.