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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.
In Europe, with my Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody and wearing the Gevomir Halter Dress with Taos Star Sneakers, and Madewell Sun Hat
A good example is the purse I took to Europe in 2022. With its sleek silhouette, edgy stud detailing and polished finish, the Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B. crossbody felt stylish yet practical. The interior organization made it easy to manage my essentials while out exploring, and I loved how confident and put-together I felt carrying it.
Security, but also versatility, matters when it comes to the best purses to travel Europe. Below, you’ll 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 stylish yet ultra functional Quince Italian Leather Crossbody Bag has become a favorite for sightseeing and everyday life.
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. They’ll 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, need to bring more things with you or if you’re traveling with your family, a backpack is the way to go. They offer plenty of room for jackets, snacks, water bottles and any other daily must-haves! Plus, they’ll distribute the weight on both of your shoulders which will feel a lot more comfortable.
This MZ Wallace Belt Bag is stylish and practical because it stays close to the body!
If you like to carry light only the essentials, think phone, wallet, keys, and lip balm, a fanny pack or a sling bag are great options. Many are convertible, letting you wear them on your waist or over your shoulder, and their compact size keeps them lightweight and easy to carry all day.
If you prefer to travel light, a crossbody phone purse is a smart choice. Many styles include a built-in wallet, keeping your essentials secure and within easy reach. With your phone and valuables close at hand, you can snap photos quickly while keeping everything safe from drops or theft.
Travelon Anti-Theft Purses are a popular choice for European cities, valued for their safety and security features.
Do I Need an Anti Theft Travel Purse in Europe?
Europe is generally very safe, but pickpocketing and theft can happen, especially in crowded tourist spots. The good news? There are plenty of ways to keep your belongings secure while exploring.
Many travelers love the peace of mind that comes with a theft-proof travel purse. If you plan to carry valuables like a camera, wallet, passport, or other special items, an anti-theft purse can be your best travel companion.
Some of the top brands with built-in security features recommended by TFG readers include:
If you prefer a purse that’s more fashionable or matches your personal style, you don’t have to sacrifice safety. There are simple ways to deter theft with any bag:
- Use a locking keychain carabiner to clip your phone, keys, or even the straps of your purse together.
- Pack a money belt or a secret bra stash for extra security. For even more clever ideas, check out our article on the best anti-theft travel accessories.
Finally, here are some more tips to help you avoid theft while traveling.
Now, let’s break down more ideas for the best purse to travel to Europe that readers vote for again and again!
Best Crossbody Travel Purse for Europe
The best thing about crossbody purses is their versatility! They’re perfect for exploring Europe, but they also work beautifully in everyday life. Many are even convertible, so you can wear them across your body for sightseeing or sling them casually over your shoulder for brunch or shopping trips.
Of course, purses with anti-theft features, like RFID-blocking pockets, locking zippers, and slash-resistant straps, are especially ideal for European travel.
For even more options, explore our complete roundup of the best travel crossbody purses!
Travelon Classic Travel Purse Crossbody Bag
The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic North/South Crossbody is a top choice for travelers looking for a sleek, secure purse. It’s equipped with all the anti-theft features that make Travelon so popular for the best crossbody purses for travel: slash-resistant body panels, a cut-proof strap, locking zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets.
Ideal for city adventures, day trips, or navigating crowded areas, this bag has just the right amount of space for your daily essentials and a convenient mesh expansion pocket for a water bottle or compact umbrella.
Shop: Quince
Quince Small Travel Purse Crossbody
From its premium leather to the elegant gold hardware, the Quince Italian Leather Small Crossbody is a stunning choice for travel in Europe. It’s not only a chic accessory but also roomy enough for your sightseeing essentials while remaining light and minimal. Thoughtfully designed, it features a durable canvas lining, an inner zip pocket for valuables, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit.
Best of all, the quality is impressive for the price.
Tumi Tyler Stylish Travel Purse Crossbody
For the best travel purse crossbody for European getaways, many readers turn to Tumi. The Tyler Nylon Crossbody is a chic option that keeps your essentials secure while you explore. Despite its compact size, it holds more than you’d expect, and when not in use, it conveniently packs flat.
This is the ideal travel shoulder bag for women heading on multi-city trips through Europe or commuting between meetings and museums.
Find out what our readers have to say about Tumi in this review!
Shop: Lululemon
Lululemon Everywhere Crossbody Travel Purse
Famous for a reason, the Lululemon Everywhere Crossbody is lightweight, practical and perfect for long sightseeing days.
The wide, adjustable strap makes it comfortable for all-day wear, while the roomy interior and multiple pockets keep your essentials organized. Equally suited for a trail walk or a city tour, its water-repellent fabric makes it a great choice for destinations with unpredictable weather, like Dublin or London.
Available in two sizes: 2L or 3L so you can choose the option that works for you depending on how much space you’ll need.
Another fan favorite purse from Lululemon is the All Night Festival Bag!
Shop: Nordstrom | Bloomingdales
Longchamp Le Foulonné Small Purse for Travel
The Longchamp Small Leather Purse is a perfect travel companion for Europe. Its sleek, compact design and durable leather make it both practical and stylish, while the adjustable strap ensures comfort during long days of exploring.
With just enough room for essentials, it effortlessly takes you from a day spent sightseeing to evening outings, offering elegance without compromise.
Shop: Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons Pearl Small Crossbody Purse for Travel
Beautiful, versatile, and supremely functional, it’s no wonder the Lo & Sons Pearl women’s crossbody travel purse is so popular!
With three compartments and a variety of pocket sizes, everything has its place, perfect for those who like an organized bag. Made from high-quality leather, it comes in a range of colors and even a vegan option. Bonus: the interchangeable straps let you switch from a crossbody by day to a wristlet by night.
Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review!
Shop: Arden Cove
Arden Cove Anti Theft Purse for Travel
If you’re a searching for a more “fashionable” theft proof purse, look no further! The Arden Cove Crissy Crossbody looks like a high-end handbag but functions as a discreet safe travel purse with anti-theft features like locking zippers and RFID-blocking lining.
There are a range of color and strap options to choose from, so you can personalize your bag to match your travel wardrobe or switch up your look. So whether you’re strolling through the streets of Paris or navigating busy train stations, the Crissy Crossbody keeps your essentials secure and your style on point.
Shop: Nordstrom | MZ Wallace
MZ Wallace Metro Scout Crossbody for Travel
Chic yet edgy, the MZ Wallace women’s travel purse is your dream travel companion. With its signature quilted design, lightweight nylon construction, and sporty-chic vibe, it’s perfect for navigating unpredictable travel weather.
Despite its compact size, it’s incredibly functional, with six interior pockets, three exterior pockets and one detachable zipped pouch.
Best Travel Backpack Purse for Europe
Some travelers feel uneasy carrying a backpack while exploring Europe, and that’s completely understandable! So instead choose a style with hidden or secret pockets or one that has anti-theft features. And no matter what, it’s smart to avoid storing anything important in front pockets. Check out these reader-recommended picks that are both chic and functional.
For even more options, explore our complete roundup of cute backpacks for travel!
Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Lightweight Purses for Travel
Explore with complete peace of mind with one of Travelon’s most-loved anti-theft purses: the Signature Slim Backpack!
It’s roomy without being overly heavy, with a classic, versatile look that pairs effortlessly with any outfit. Packed with incredible anti-theft features, including slash-resistant fabric, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking card slots, your belongings stay completely secure.
And as if that wasn’t enough, the sleek, durable material is water- and stain-resistant, making it perfect for all your European adventures.
Tumi Large Travel Purse Backpack
If you need to carry a little more, the Tumi Voyageur Celina Backpack is a top pick. It’s spacious, with plenty of zippered pockets inside and out, plus a padded laptop sleeve for extra convenience.
Durable and long-lasting, this backpack will stand up to years of travel while adding a touch of sophistication to every outfit on your European adventures.
Shop: Nordstrom | Longchamp | Bloomingdale’s
Longchamp Le Pliage Lightweight Travel Purse Backpack
Always a traveler favorite, the Le Pliage Women’s Travel Backpack Purse is both high-quality and effortlessly chic. Its durable nylon exterior hides a water-resistant lining and plenty of room for all your daily essentials. Perfect for strolling the high-fashion streets of Paris, it also doubles as a handy personal item on flights.
As a bonus, it folds flat for easy storage when not in use, making it as practical as it is stylish.
Shop: Rebecca Minkoff | Nordstrom
Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Travel Purse Backpack
After traveling with this bag for years now, I can honestly say the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack is one of the best travel purses! It’s as practical as it is stylish, featuring three compartments and plenty of pockets to keep everything secure and organized, including a secret back pocket perfect for cash and other valuables.
Spacious enough for all your essentials, this backpack easily transitions from sightseeing by day to a chic dinner by night.
Find out more about this backpack in my full review here!
Pacsafe CX Citysafe Secure Travel Purse Backpack
Another fantastic anti-theft option, the Pacsafe Citysafe Backpack is considered one of the best travel purse backpack options for Europe according to our readers. Beyond its chic look, it offers excellent organization with plenty of pockets while weighing under a pound, making it lightweight and easy to carry.
Considered one of the safest travel purses thanks to its interlocking zippers, cut-resistant straps and fabric, and RFID-blocking technology. On top of that, this versatile bag has a trolley sleeve making airport travel a breeze.
Looking for a backpack with a trolley sleeve? Find the best here!
Best Convertible Backpack Purse for Europe
TFG readers often stress the importance of a capsule wardrobe, having enough outfit options without overpacking, and the same logic applies to travel purses for Europe! The key is choosing a bag that can be worn in multiple ways.
The most popular picks are convertible backpacks that easily transform into a shoulder bag, crossbody, or tote. These versatile and stylish options pair effortlessly with any travel outfit, making them a must-have for chic European adventures.
For even more options, explore our complete roundup of the Convertible Backpack Purses for Travel.
Shop: Arden Cove
Arden Cove Convertible Secure Travel Purse
The Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody from Arden Cove is a stylish, secure and incredibly versatile choice for European travel. Designed with anti-theft features, water-resistant materials and thoughtful interior organization, this bag effortlessly transforms between a backpack and a crossbody to suit your needs.
Despite its sleek profile, it offers a spacious main compartment with pockets to keep all your essentials organized and easy to find, making it perfect for sightseeing, shopping, or strolling through city streets.
PacSafe Travel Purse Convertible Backpack
Travel worry-free with the PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Convertible Backpack. This bag features lockable pickpocket-proof zippers, slash-resistant material and padded shoulder straps that can even be anchored to a table for extra security.
Its versatile carrying options let you use it as a backpack, sling or crossbody, and the top handles and luggage sleeve make airport travel effortless. This bag keeps you looking stylish while easily navigating security lines or strolling the streets of Paris.
Shop: Nordstrom | Baggallini
Baggallini Backpack Purse for Travel
For a sleek and versatile travel companion, the Baggallini Nolita Convertible Backpack is a stylish, lightweight option. It features a luggage sleeve and padded laptop pocket, making it especially convenient for navigating airport terminals or business trips to Europe.
Practical details like an RFID-blocking passport pocket and large side pockets that fit a water bottle add even more functionality. Best of all, it can be worn as a backpack, shoulder tote, or crossbody, so it easily adapts to whatever your day of travel has in store.
Sherpani Soleil RFID Travel Purse Backpack
Readers rave about how functional the Sherpani Soleil Anti-Theft Travel Backpack is for keeping valuables safe while exploring Europe! Made from water-resistant, slash proof and ultra-durable fabric, it’s the perfect companion for long days of sightseeing.
This bag offers impressive storage with tons of pockets, including two open side pockets that are perfect for holding a water bottle or compact umbrella. As an added bonus, it’s packed with anti-theft features, such as lockable zippers, and a chair loop lock system that lets you secure the bag to a chair when dining or taking a break.
Best Sling or Belt Bag for Europe
Sometimes the best purse for travel is something small and compact! The trend of sling bags and fanny packs shows no signs of slowing down, and readers love them for a few key reasons.
Not only do they feel less conspicuous, but they also sit securely close to the body, making them perfect for carrying just the essentials while sightseeing. If you prefer traveling light, one of these stylish, hands-free picks might be the perfect fit for your next European adventure!
For even more options, explore our complete roundups of the best Sling Purses or Belt Bags for travel.
Travelon Anti-Theft Convertible Mini Travel Purse Sling
Wander around your European destination with comfort and peace of mind wearing the Travelon Metro Anti-Theft Belt Bag. It can be worn around the waist or crossbody, giving you flexible hands-free carrying options for busy sightseeing days.
The main compartment includes a zippered pocket, RFID-blocking card slots, and a handy key clip, with enough space for essentials like your phone, wallet, sunglasses, and a few must-have cosmetics. Best of all, it locks securely shut for added protection.
Shop: Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons Waverley Leather Travel Purse/Sling Bag
Talk about a cute travel purse! If you’re planning to travel light, the Lo & Sons Waverley makes a gorgeous addition to your travel wardrobe. Made from high-quality leather, also available in a vegan leather option, it’s perfectly sized to hold just the essentials. Chic and versatile, it easily elevates a sightseeing outfit and pairs just as well with dressier evening looks.
Even better, it can be worn multiple ways, as a waist bag, crossbody, shoulder bag, or even a wristlet, making it incredibly versatile for travel.
Another practical and fashionable option, our readers also love the stylish Lo & Sons Bond Belt Bag that’s slightly more spacious.
Shop: Lululemon
Lululemon Small Travel Purses/Sling Bags
Hands-free and hassle-free, the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is perfect for travelers who want a compact, water-repellent carry solution. It features interior pockets to keep your essentials organized and an exterior zippered pocket to safely store your phone, passport, or other small valuables.
Available in a range of neutral and seasonal colors, and in two convenient sizes: 1L and 2L.
Monos Metro Vegan Leather Travel Purse Sling
Elevate your travel style with the Monos Metro Sling Bag, made from water-resistant, scratch-resistant ultra-microfiber vegan leather that stays sleek and durable no matter where your adventures take you.
Compact yet surprisingly spacious, this versatile sling features interior pockets, a keychain carabiner and a hidden back pocket to securely store your phone, wallet, or passport. Adjustable for multiple wearing styles, it offers a comfortable, effortless fit that moves with you.
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).
Shop: CUSTYPE
CUSTYPE Phone Crossbody Purses for Travel
If you want to keep things ultra minimal, the phone crossbody case from CUSTYPE is all you need!
This popular crossbody phone case set keeps your valuables close at all times. Made of high-quality leather, it features a detachable round pouch and a rear pocket for cards and cash with a snap closure, plus an adjustable strap for comfortable all-day wear.
Another great option is their Crocodile Design Crossbody with Wireless Charging, combining style, convenience, and secure storage in one sleek bag.
Shop: Nordstrom
The Sak Travel Crossbody Purse
Stay organized and stylish on the go with The Sak Iris Smartphone Crossbody. This compact bag offers hands-free convenience with a secure snap closure, multiple card slots and a dedicated phone compartment. The adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit, making it ideal for sightseeing, errands or everyday adventures.
Available in a variety of colors, this sleek crossbody keeps your essentials close while adding a touch of effortless style to any outfit.
Shop: Quince
Quince Phone Crossbody Travel Purses
Lightweight, chic and affordable, the Quince Phone Crossbody Purse is perfectly sized to hold your phone, cards, cash, and a few small essentials like sunglasses or lip balm.
Made from water-resistant materials, it keeps your belongings within reach and protected while exploring a new city. When not in use, its compact, packable design makes it easy to stow away in your suitcase.
Find out the best ways to keep your phone safe while traveling here!
Best Tote Bags for Europe
While it might not seem like the most obvious choice, the travel totes can be incredibly useful for a European trip! They work beautifully as a personal item on flights, a spacious sightseeing bag, or even a handy carryall for souvenirs on the journey home.
As an added bonus, many travel-friendly totes are designed to pack flat, making them easy to tuck into your luggage until you need them. Take a look at these practical yet stylish picks that readers love for European travel!
For even more options, explore our complete roundup of the Best Totes for Travel.
Travelon’s Anti-Theft Tote
Travelon’s Anti-Theft Travel Tote is a reader favorite for a practical yet polished option for sightseeing days, flights or everyday travel. It can be worn over the shoulder or as a crossbody, and while it’s incredibly functional, it maintains a sleek minimalist look that pairs easily with any travel outfit.
This spacious tote holds a surprising amount and includes excellent anti-theft features, such as lock-down straps that secure to stationary objects, locking zippers, slash-resistant construction, and RFID-blocking technology.
Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Nylon Tote: Small | Medium | Large
Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Large Tote Bags for Women
The Tumi Packable Travel Tote is a favorite among travelers who know they’ll likely be bringing home a few extra goodies from their trip! It packs down into a tiny pouch, making it easy to stash in your suitcase and pull out whenever you need extra space.
It transforms into a spacious and durable tote with sturdy handles and a convenient trolley sleeve, so you can easily slide it over your suitcase handle while navigating the airport. It’s the perfect just-in-case bag for shopping days, souvenirs, or extra items on the flight home.
Shop: Nordstrom | Bloomingdale’s | Longchamp
Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon/Leather Tote Bags for Women
You can’t go wrong with the classic Longchamp Le Pliage Women’s Tote! Versatile and spacious, it easily holds all your daily essentials, plus a sweater or a few souvenirs picked up along the way. Made from sturdy, water-resistant nylon with elegant leather trim, this tote is lightweight and easy to carry.
It comes in a variety of colors and folds flat for effortless storage when not in use. Available in medium or large sizes, you can choose the perfect option depending on how much space you’ll need throughout your European adventures.
Delsey Travel Tote Bags for Women
Travel-ready and versatile, the Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 Tote Bag folds flat in your luggage and expands into a roomy purse perfect for souvenirs and essentials collected along the way.
It holds everything you need for a day of sightseeing while remaining easy on your shoulder. Features include a convenient trolley sleeve, an interior zippered pocket for organization, and water- and dirt-repellent material that makes cleaning a breeze.
Portland Leather Metro Crossbody Purse
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Travel Purse
Your travel purse isn’t just a bag, it’s your companion on every journey.
Whether you prioritize security features, lightweight design or stylish versatility, the best travel purse is the one that fits your unique travel needs. Consider the trips you take most often, the amount of gear you typically carry and the activities you’ll be doing. Investing in a quality travel purse isn’t just about fashion; it’s about functionality, organization and traveling with less stress.
With the right purse, you can navigate new cities confidently, explore freely and carry only what truly matters.
What do you think is the best purse for European travel? Share and comment below!
If you’re traveling to Europe, read these articles to start packing for your trip:
- What to Wear to Europe in the Spring
- What to Wear in Europe in the Summer
- What to Wear to Europe in the Fall
- What to Wear to Europe in the Winter
- Travel Shoes for Europe
- Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?
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https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/products/E479305-000/00?colorDisplayCode=02
took this bag to Scandinavia for a 2 week trip. This bag was wonderful!
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.