Acquiring a high-quality crossbody bag is the one essential purchase you should make before heading off on your Euro summer trip.
Marrying function and style, this style makes the perfect everyday accessory, especially for travel.
Forgoing a chain strap less reliable than your ex and the pesky shoulder ache courtesy of unevenly distributed weight when using a tote bag, crossbody bags usually have adjustable body straps that aid security and provide a relaxed feel to any outfit.
Pop your phone, wallet, passport and lip gloss in one of these chic essentials and you’re all set for a day of gallivanting up, down and around Europe when you head over for the summer.
WHO have rounded up the best crossbody bags that truly make ideal travel companions.
2024’s Top 3 Crossbody Bag Picks
- Recycled Polyester Soft Crossbody Bag, $99.95 at Country Road
- Shania Crossbody Bag, $89.95 at The ICONIC
- Norah Crossbody Bag, $25 at Petal + Pup
The best crossbody bags to shop in Australia in 2024
Recycled Polyester Soft Crossbody Bag
$99.95 at Country Road
Made from recycled polyester, this soft crossbody bag has a top zip closure, external zip pocket, internal slip pocket and an adjustable strap so you’ll never lose your belongings. Available in four neutral colourways – chic beige, classic black, classy dark green and versatile brown – it’s the ethically conscious and stylish addition to any outfit you can snag for under $100.
Key features:
- 100% recycled polyester body
- Internal and external pockets
- Available in four neutral colourways
Also available from:
- $99.95 at THE ICONIC
- $99.95 at Myer
Shania Crossbody Bag
$89.95 at THE ICONIC
Available in a range of summer neutrals, this casual crossbody bag has a woven vegan leather trim, a magnetic clasp flap closure, an adjustable and detachable strap and light gold hardware (subtle enough to suit both silver and gold gals). And while the spacious interior is big enough to hold all your essentials, the five (yes, five) pockets ensure you can pack even more than you thought when on the go.
Key features:
- Available in five neutral hues
- Five spacious pockets
- Stylish vegan leather trimming
Norah Crossbody Bag
$25 at Petal + Pup
In a gorgeous and understated pink hue, this adjustable faux leather crossbody bag adds a modern touch to your style. With a magnetic clasp closure and lined material, it’s as functional as it is fashionable. Whether you’re heading out to the shops, strolling the streets sightseeing or enjoying a meal at a fancy restaurant, this is the bag that’s not too casual or dressed up for any occasion.
Key features:
- Magnetic clasp closure
- Faux leather
- Adjustable crossbody strap
Bag Wizard Crossbody Wallet Purse
$25 at Amazon
Aside from its extremely affordable price, the standout feature that sets this bag apart from others on the market has to be the savvy touchscreen window. This addition allows easy phone access without needing to take it in and out of your bag. Available in nine classic and trendy colours including a beautiful sage green, black and lilac, this crossbody bag – fit with its three main compartments – is the key to staying clutter-free while travelling.
Key features:
- Three main compartments and two zip closures
- Clear touchscreen window
- Adjustable and removable strap
Jet Set Medium Pebbled Leather Crossbody Bag
$389 at Michael Kors
This number is understated, classic and the perfect size for lightweight everyday use. Featuring a beautiful pebbled leather outer, this crossbody bag is spacious enough to fit all the essentials and the long leather, plus, the comfy chain strap will sit comfortably on your shoulder all day long.
Key features:
- 100% pure leather
- Secure zip fastening
- Gold-tone hardware
GANNI Leopard-print Recycled Crossbody Bag
$183 at Farfetch
For the fashion-forward traveller, shop GANNI’s adorable leopard-print crossbody that’s made from a durable recycled shell, features adjustable straps and is spacious enough to hold everything you may need — and more. Expect to find us taking on Copenhagen in this dopamine-inducing little number.
Key features:
- Recycled polyester
- Secure top zip fastening
- Bold leopard print
Tony Bianco Andrew Crossbody Bag
$89.95 at THE ICONIC
With various pockets for on-the-go organisation, this simple and understated Tony Bianco crossbody will complement any outfit. The outer is designed with pebbled faux leather and features gold hardware for an added touch of elegance.
Key features:
- Pebbled faux leather construction
- Dual zip-fastened compartments
- Adjustable strap
Also available from:
- $99.95 at David Jones
Gabine Leather Crossbody Bag
$246 at Charles & Keith
Want to add some colour to your travel wardrobe or looking for a bag that’s bright enough to stand out so you don’t lose it? Opt for this adorable rectangular-shaped pistachio crossbody that’s slightly bigger than the usual crossbody style, making it great for those of us who can’t edit our essentials…
Key features:
- Made from Nappa sheep leather
- Detachable and adjustable strap
- Magnetic closure
Poppy Lissiman Bobby bag
$155 at Poppy Lissiman
Don’t let its petite size fool you. Fitted with five pockets (two external and three internal), this compact, squishy and versatile nylon bag has taken Australia by storm. Plus, thanks to its versatile style and endless colourways to choose from, this is the perfect everyday crossbody.
Key features:
- Two external and three internal pockets
- Adjustable branded strap
- Available in 22 colours and patterns
Is a crossbody bag good for travel?
Not only are crossbody bags stylish but they’re perfect for travel. This is because they’re petite and light but spacious enough to carry all your daily essentials like your passport, wallet and phone. Plus, the strap won’t weigh you down or give you shoulder strain midday.
Are crossbody bags in style in Europe?
Crossbody bags never went out of style. In fact, they’re still one of the most-used and preferred styles of travel bags. You’re also not restricted to one style or shape with crossbody bags — they come in a plethora of different shapes, sizes and colours to suit every person’s needs and fashion style.
How do I choose a crossbody bag?
The key to choosing the right crossbody bag for you is considering what your day-to-day essentials look like. For example, some people can get around carrying nothing more than a phone, wallet and passport while others need a whole lot of other items like a professional camera, makeup and skincare goods, medication and so forth. Find what you deem “essential” and pick your preferred size based on this.
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