How to choose the best travel bag

In the Palais Royal gardens in Paris. Details at une femme d'un certain age.

Many of you have mentioned you have travel planned in the next weeks and months. In addition to planning which clothing and shoes to pack, don’t forget about your handbag(s)! If you want to pack lighter and smarter, a well-chosen bag that carries what you need and won’t weigh you down is essential. Here are my tips for choosing the best bag for travel…

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Prior comments were left in place.

How to choose the best bag for travel

Choosing a travel bag or purse really comes down to the type of travel and personal preferences, but there are a few attributes that I always consider.

Size

  • What will you need to carry with you during the day? Will your bag need to accommodate extra clothing, medications, food or water?
  • Can you downsize some items (like a wallet, cosmetics bag, or camera)?
  • My recommendation is to go with the smallest bag you think you’ll need. The more room you have, the greater the temptation to toss in stuff “just in case.” Stash a small reusable nylon shopping bag or two in case you pick up some items during the day and need more room.

Weight

  • Travel often involves a lot more walking or standing that we usually do at home. So it’s important to start with a bag that’s relatively lightweight. A purse that weighs 3 pounds empty will feel like lugging around a toddler once you add your belongings and spend a few hours on your feet.
  • A leather bag will generally weigh more than fabric. Hardware, structure and compartments will all add weight. It’s a tradeoff…sometimes the organization is worth a few extra ounces.

Style

  • I’ve come to prefer a simple, sleek bag that has some organization, but isn’t too stiff and bulky.
  • Crossbody bags are my personal preference; they allow you to have your hands free, and I find them easier on the neck and shoulders. Look for straps that aren’t too thin; a strap that’s at least 1/2 inch wide will be more comfortable over time. (I’m not a fan of backpacks, but I know some people prefer them.)
  • A darker color will be less likely to show dirt or scuffs, though some materials may be more resistant.
  • Are you bringing more than one bag, or will you need a single bag that can go from day to evening? If the latter, I recommend sticking to a neutral color.
  • If you’re traveling to a destination where heavy rainfall is the norm, consider water-resistance. You can also treat leather and some fabric bags with a waterproofing spray before go.

Security

  • A bag that zips completely closed will be most secure.
  • Another reason I prefer a crossbody bag is that I can keep it in front of me and close to my body in crowds, and it’s a tougher target for a snatch-and-run thief.
  • I’ve never felt the need to travel with one of those special anti-theft bags, but if you feel more secure with one, there are a lot of choices.
  • If you do travel with a backpack, I’ve seen it suggested to wear it on your chest rather than your back in crowds or on public transportation.
  • I still believe the best security is staying aware of your surroundings, and moving away from people who seem to be unnecessarily close or are trying to distract you.

The Varsity Team

The Lightweight. This small nylon “Le Pliage” bag has a removable crossbody strap, and classic Longchamp style. The size is deceptive; this actually holds quite a lot. (Also available in Large.) I traveled with an earlier version of this bag when we went to Japan in 2016, and added a purse organizer (similar to this one).

MZ Wallace Mia crossbody bag in black quilted.

The Manager. Though I haven’t tried this bag myself, many of you have recommended various MZ Wallace (available bags at Nordstrom or direct from the MZ Wallace site) bags for travel. This model looked like a good balance of size, style, light weight, and organization. Here’s a larger satchel style (with optional crossbody strap). 

MZ Wallace small Sutton tote black.

The Utility Player. This style offers the option of carrying in hand/over the arm or wearing crossbody. Nice for day-to-evening wear. (Also in Medium and Large size. More color choices available HERE.) I’ve examined this one up close and it’s extremely light!

The Alternate. Many of you have recommended Baggallini bags for travel, and this style is highly rated. I thought I’d show you an option that isn’t black, but it is also available in black and taupe.

Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody bag in light grey. Details at une femme d'un certain age.

The MVP. Most leather bags have become too heavy for me for travel use, but this one is the exception. (It’s the bag I’m wearing in the top photo.) This is a great little bag that holds quite a bit more than you’d think from its size. Though the middle section doesn’t zip closed, it does snap securely. The strap can convert from a crossbody to shoulder to wristlet length (though I use it exclusively crossbody). It’s lightweight and good-looking, and available in multiple colors and hardware options.

What bags or handbag features have you found best for travel?

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88 Comments

  1. I have a dozen different styles of MZ Wallace bag and depend on them for travel and everyday use. They are lightweight and they all have both shoulder and cross-body straps to use as needed. The outside pockets are especially useful for easy access to a phone and keys. In the past year, my MZ Wallace bags have accompanied me to Ireland, France, Morocco, and NYC. And my shoulders especially benefit from the lightweight construction. Thanks for including all the different types of travel bags in this posting.

  2. I agree 100% with all of your comments for a travel handbag for all of the reasons you mentioned. We have traveled at lot (to over 40 countries so far). My current favorite is a black Baggolina, light weight fabric bag that holds my mini i-pad and other necessities, but nothing more and it is perfect for more than 90% of my travel time. I got this bag at TJMaxx for a very reasonable price. I will be sad when it wears out and would immediately look for a similar replacement. I also have a much larger bag of similar water and dirt resistant fabric than can pass as a purse, or personal item that I usually carry on the airplane, and can use for a daypack if more than my usual nesessities are needed for a particular outing. This larger bag has hand handles but also a detachable crossbody strap that I can use while going thru airports, or when I need my hands free for additional items. I agree with all of your safety advice and also have not felt the need for a special theft proof bag. [I did buy one once but returned it right away because it didn’t fit all of the other criteria that you mentioned) which I felt were more important. I also have a small slightly bigger than a wallet —item (also in black) that has a detachable crossbody strap, that holds my passport, money, credit cards, a pen, lipstick, a few cough drops…that fits down inside the other bags, but can be used separately and keeps my most important items close at hand and can be used alone too.

  3. Absolutely a cross-body bag (having been dragged down a Barcelona street by a purse-snatcher…I won, thanks to my bag, which didn’t break). Some museums don’t allow backpacks, even small, chic leather ones.

  4. The Pearl looks wonderful, but the cross body strap a bit thin. I travel quite a bit and swear by the Vera Bradley Hipster Crossbody. A strap that is over an inch wide and water proof fabric that cleans in a heart beat. 2 external zipper pockets and more room than you originally think inside. And only $80, so I don’t worry when it gets battered. The only problem is that I have it in black and it doesn’t come in a lighter color. For spring and summer, I”d love to find a woven, neutral (for that summery feeling) cross body with zippers and closures. Any thoughts?

    1. Have you seen the new Vera Bradley color called denim? I just bought a bag in that colorway and I think it will work year round. It’s not as heavy-looking as black for the summer.

  5. Agree that a crossbody is a must. I prefer one that is large enough for my iPad mini but small enough to fit in my personal carryon bag. . I usually ditch the wallet entirely and use the slots in the purse for credit cards, passport, etc. I only take one lipstick, a compact, a small fold up brush/comb and a travel size suntan lotion. I wear my sunglasses or carry them in a coat pocket. Your suggestion about including the small nylon fold up is one I will adopt. Great idea. Inspired by your blog, I just bought a Brahmin (turquoise) crossbody for this summer’s travel. It will punch up my black or other neutral travel clothes!

  6. On my recent trip to Seattle I finally purchased a large Le Piliage tote for the plane (in an olive khaki color). For walking around, I’ve been using a Patricia Nash crossbody in the Avellino style (in her camo pattern), it has gotten plenty wet and survived just fine, although I forgot to add any protectant.

  7. Yes definitely cross body and always nylon with enough room for a small bottle of water. I always leave my usual leather wallet at home and travel with a small lightweight one with one credit card and my cash. I also agree with your tip regarding the fold up nylon bag – I take one with me ever day, both home and away. Mine hooks nicely over my shoulder and is so handy.

  8. I can’t recommend MZ Wallace bags highly enough! I’ve carried them almost exclusively for over ten years now. They are lightweight and water resistant, which is great for travel of course, but the thing I love the most – the inner and outer pockets. There is a place for everything and as a result I’m never digging through my bag to find anything. I have the Mia, which you have featured here, and I do really like it, but I would have to say my favorite for travel (and everyday, actually) is the Paige.

    https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mz-wallace-paige-bedford-nylon-crossbody-bag/3103227

    It’s quite roomy, but its dimensions also allow me to put it into my personal item before boarding the plane.

  9. I love my Baggalini – black, cross-body and very light weight and I can wash it! Comes out like new. I love the Longchamp, but how heavy is the hardware on it? I have the foldable one in orange that is my go-to for work.

  10. Now that I wear prescription glasses, I find it more challenging to fit everything I need during the day into a smallish bag. How do you deal with having both a pair of regular and sun glasses? On not so sunny days, transition lenses are a an option, but I find that they don’t get quite dark enough for me on very bright days.

    Also — where on your body should a crossbody bag lie? I have the Longchamps neo bag in small, and I adore it for being light and functional, but it seems a bit short when worn crossbody.

    1. Transition lenses just aren’t for me and i will not purchase them a second time. They don’t seem to get dark enough and are slow to lighten up once I am inside. I don’t feel like a shadow of color ever goes away which I feel makes me look tired. Also for outside photos you are always “wearing sunglasses” as there isn’t a way to get rid of them beyond taking them off which looks unnatural for me as I’ve worn glasses for 50 years.

    2. Hi Adele, I’ve been told that for crossbody bags, the strap should be long enough so that when the bag is worn, you can just cup your hand around the bottom of the bag. I’ve also known people who prefer them a little shorter…just depends on whatever is comfortable for you.

      I’m a fan of transition lenses for travel, especially if activities involve going between inside and outside frequently. I find it kind of a pain to keep having to switch glasses. That said, I usually also pack a non-transitions pair of optical glasses for evenings, and a pair of very dark sunglasses if I’m going to be out in bright sun for extended periods. I don’t necessarily carry all with me all of the time, but it’s good to have if needed.

  11. One more comment: I’ve found that I need to have a smooth nylon or leather strap on any travel purse, So many of them have webbing-style straps, Baggalini included, and they cause my knit tops to pill.

      1. I purchased a dooney bourke canvas cross body bag for a trip. It was perfect in every way. Except that the stitching on the strap was catching on my clothes where it rubbed. I didn’t realize it for the first few days and it ruined several pieces of clothing. I just looked at them again at the store and this is still an issue.

  12. I have a teardrop-shaped baggalini – it is ok but I prefer a somewhat larger but lightweight Healthy Back Bag. Depends on how one travels – I avoid hotels if I can, and buy groceries and other supplies on my way to my temporary “home”.

  13. I have several Longchamp bags but I wish their strap was longer – 18″ is not crossbody – it’s more like cross chest.

    Depending on where I’m going or how I’m traveling I will take either a Longchamp or one of my Wallace bags.
    I’ve also used the black, long, adjustable MZ Wallace strap on a black Longchamp – best of both worlds.

  14. After years of travel with every purse recommended and a frequent sore shoulder, I have found that one of the slightly smaller MZ Wallace fabric purses is by far the best. I always buy a purse large enough for a standard iPad and iPhone and full enough to hold a folded shawl or nylon tote but one with multiple exterior pockets and a full zipper. The clincher is the width and fabric of the cross-body shoulder strap which allows full-day comfort unless I stuff too much into the purse for long hours. I am 5’2” so proportion is important.

  15. I like a everyday baggollini bags, they slip easily into a larger tote. I’ve tried some of their mid-sized bags but haven’t quite found the right one, If a bag is tall and narrow I feel like I’m unloading it every time I want to get something out.

  16. I have the MZ Wallace Paige, which was purchased for a trip to Europe about three years ago. Agree with the other commenters that it is ideal for travel. It’s lightweight, water resistant, has lots of pockets, and is quite roomy as well. It’s become my everyday bag and still looks as good as when it was purchased.

  17. Absolutely, a crossbody Baggollini bag. I ordered and returned so many before getting a black lightweight Baggollini with multiple zippered compartments, slash-resistant strap and exterior. It was comfortable, hung close to the body and even easily fit under a light coat for extra security. We have traveled around Europe, the Middle East and the U.S. and that bag held all the glasses, meds, maps, phone, ID, etc., that my husband and I needed.

    1. Oops, thanks to Margot’s question, I got my travel purse out to look for a style name or number and discovered it’s not Baggollini but the Travelon Anti-theft Classic Crossbody Bag style #42373. It has two front pockets and zip compartments front and back in addition to main one, plus lockable zipper and anti-slash. I got it in black to blend better with most of my clothes. Here’s the link: https://www.travelonbags.com/anti-theft/anti-theft-cross-body-bag

      1. I use a similar bag. I know that several have commented that they have not felt the need for an anti-theft bag. Well–a friend had a bag slashed very quickly on a train. She never even knew it was happening. Since that time she (and I!) have used an anti-theft bag. In fact, she liked my larger one better than her smaller one, so I loaned it to her for her last trip.

  18. I have traveled many times with the exact MZ Wallace bag pictured and can’t imagine a better bag. It holds whatever I pick up along the way, doesn’t weigh too much and has a zillion inner zip pockets to thwart pick pockets.

  19. My husband and I are leaving Friday on a re-positioning cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Copenhagen. I”m not worried about bags for this part of the trip. I have a small cross body and Le Pliage tote for the ship. However, I’ve started to panic a bit about our planned week in Barcelona post-cruise. For that, I’ve decided to bring an old Timbukt2 messenger bag to thwart the pick-pockets. The bag is actually rather attractive because it has a printed lace pattern. I once lost a valuable gold watch in it for over a year. The watch was an extravagant anniversary gift from my husband, and I knew I’d put it in that bag. Checked the various zippered pockets for over a year, until with great relief, I found the watch one day. I figure this is the perfect bag to foil pick-pockets in Barcelona. Even with a secure bag, I’ll be wearing a Braza secure stash “pocket” that I can wear on a bra. I also have the “over the neck” bags for plane tickets, etc. When wearing one for security, as opposed to just convenience at the airport, I wear the bag in a cross-body style under my clothing. I’m thinking that in Barcelona, I might loop it around my bra strap rather than my neck. I don’t like the idea of the strap being visible and potentially being dragged by my neck.

    1. I have to smile because more than once I have lost earrings somewhere in a bag and found them accidentally later. What a relief you found the watch.

  20. I carry a Travelon Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody and have been very pleased. It’s lightweight and holds plenty, including my Fire tablet. Fits right down in my under-seat bag.

    1. I have the Travelon Messenger bag and love it. For those of you going to places like Paris or Barcelona, please note that the shoulder strap has a metal cable that prevents a thief from slashing it. Also, it’s modestly priced so if it’s stolen, lost or damaged, you’re not out much money.

      1. Which Messenger bag? I looked on the Travelon site, and there are several different messenger bags. I’l love to know which one you like 🙂

  21. Please be thoughtful about the Longchamp Pliage bag. A friend was carrying hers on the Paris metro and a thief slashed it and stole her wallet before she could react. That thin nylon is lightweight but not secure.

  22. A very good post, very useful about this question of the choose of a travel handbag.
    And very complete, at the same time : congratulations, Susan !

  23. Hobo bags always have a well organized stylish option. I use a light grey cross body for spring/summer travel and a burgundy with cross body and shorter strap for fall/winter
    On my last trip I flew a discount airline within the EU. They have pretty stringent rules with carry on.
    I have a perfect underseat travel pro,love it! Well they included my smallish crossbody as carry on. They told me to get my purse into my underseat bag or they will charge me 60£.well my underseat bag is packed to the gills no way I can get my purse in there
    Yikes! I sweated it out and concealed my purse under my jacket.
    Note to self~always travel with a small adjustable bag mine is scout brand. Just returned from a trip and implemented that travel tip and low n behold I used the little bag,Ta daaaa perfect.
    Also,Susan I so appreciate your transparency on commissions.
    I have quit following some bloggers because I don’t really trust their information. It feels like the money is driving the conversations.
    I trust your honest blog and look forward to it. Thanks!

  24. Love that Pearl bag. My traveling has been curtailed due to health issues with my 16year old beagle. I’d like to try that Pearl bag though. Tempted to get one for one of my twin girls who is a writer for Lonely Planet who travels extensively through Italy.

  25. I recently purchased the Tumi Voyager Capri crossbody bag, mainly for running errands around the neighborhood. When I shop, especially for food, I like to have both hands free. It is made of practically indestructible fabric, is wonderfully organized with 4 pockets, and only weighs 0.85 pounds. It holds much more than it would appear to and will be excellent for travel. Although I bought it to replace an older bag I used only for local errands, I use it almost daily for everything. Unlike most fabric bags that I think look somewhat frumpy, the Tumi Capri is chic with beautiful, with well-functioning zippers. I receive compliments nearly every time I carry it.

    1. I second Tumi products for day and travel! I have this same bag in gray for summer and navy for the rest of the year although I primarily use for travel when I really need my hands free. Tumi makes an excellent product which is lightweight, holds plenty, lots of pockets, and looks great. They make me feel polished when I travel but also are very functional. I use a Tumi duffel as my under the seat bag and I love it so much. Link is below. I was able to buy it in a beautiful medium blue which looks good with my black carryon and it still looks new after 3 years of a lot of airplane travel. It was more expensive than my actually rolling suitcase but was worth every penny, especially when I figure out cost per use! I sound like a commercial but these products make me happy since they meet my function yet stylish need.

      https://www.tumi.com/p/durban-expandable-duffel-0484602D

      1. I love the little Tumi crossbody purse as well. Very light and lots of room. It packs away in my personal item very easily which is important if you are doing carryon. I also have the Lo &Sons Pearl in the soft black leather as well as the bit heavier, saffiano?, silver leather. Love these as well and take them if I want a dressier day look. Tumi also makes a large nylon tote and a nylon knapsack that are both great to have if you have a day trip that needs more stuff. They both sturdy, look good and best of all, they fold into about a four to five inch square to stash in your suitcase. Watch for the sales!

  26. I agree with all your recommendations and also choose to carry the lightest weight bag possible when traveling However, I sometimes wonder if Europeans judge Americans based on their handbags. I was denied entrance to a “luxury” goods store last year in Italy and I swear the guard at the front door stared hard at my nylon bag. I was dressed perfectly well (better than average since I knew I was going shopping) and I’m only guessing that perhaps my handbag did not signal that I had enough money to be shopping there!

  27. Another vote for MZ Wallace. I bought the Paige for our last trip to Italy and can’t say enough about it. Lightweight, water resistant, with enough compartments that I never ran out of space. Love it!

  28. Hi Susan,
    Depending on where I’m going or how I’m traveling I will take either a Longchamp or one of my Wallace bags.
    I’ve also used the black,
    Cheers,
    Ellie

  29. The Lo & Sons Pearl is my everyday bag, and it’s perfect. My wallet is safely zipped up, and my phone, pen and notebook live in easily accessible slots. But for international travel I use my Tumi Voyageur Capri nylon crossbody in black. It’s super lightweight and there are zippers for passport, wallet and phone compartment. It can hold a travel umbrella if needed.

  30. I have several colors of Fossil leather crossbody bags. They are fairly small (for me), so I switch to a smaller wallet and consolidate my usual lipsticks. I recently got a Baggalini convertible backpack I love; it’s lightweight black nylon and has lots of compartments. I put my wallet in the inside zip pocket for security. I can wear it as a backpack, but can also convert the straps so it looks like a shoulder bag.

  31. Always appreciate your reconnaissance work Susan! I’m yet another MZ Wallace fan. I currently have four in various iterations-tote to crossbody-and love all of them. I like Le Pliage, but you seem them everywhere. MZ Wallace is not quite as ubiquitous, many styles offer multiple straps, and the organizational features and trim elevate them as travel or every day bags.

  32. I have bought so many travel bags-most are so utilitarian looking. Tough but ugly. OK for some destinations. Get heavy if overstuff-bought a plus iPhone to avoid taking an iPad which seems too heavy these days. Plan to ditch by big camera.

    Going to trying the Lo&Sons Pearl for city trips. Have been using a smallish Jimmy Choo suede black/silver camo crossbody. It has three zippered compartments that can take my sunglasses, wallet and phone and even a small camera. Works great and can be tucked into a larger carryon but nutty price-would not use it in wet weather if I didn’t have a coat to stick it under.

    Those light weight collapsible nylon bags/ knapsacks have been life savers to decant/stash stuff especially if going from a cold to a hot climate. There are many that fold down to nothing-Tilley’s have some great ones. I take a couple sizes in my suitcase.

  33. After a friend had her bag slashed on a train in France (and she was not even aware it had happened) , I have followed her lead and now carry an anti-theft/anti slash bag when I travel abroad. It’s lightweight black fabric and also has a secure clip on each zipper. In my regular life, I do prefer leather bags, but have felt very secure with my antitheft/anti slash cross body bag. The brand of my bag is Travelon.

  34. Timely post for our European cruise in June. Have you heard of the Lug brand? I just purchased a crossbody purse but have a few of their bags. Love them. They are lightweight nylon with many color choices and have lots of organization including a fold away pocket for a bottle of water or small umbrella. They now have RFID protection in some of their bags as well. Great reading all of the tips and I so appreciate your website!

  35. Kind of a late-to-the-game post, but I wanted to mention my favorite bags, Mandarina Duck (http://www.mandarinaduck.com/en-US). I just bought my 4th Md crossbody bag, a replacement for a small black one I’ve been using every day for 5 years, including trips to Italy, Paris (twice) and the Netherlands (also twice). The old one has gone from being strapped on the back of my bike to the opera, alll in the same day. Md offers both leather (too heavy for me) and technical fabric bags in a wide variety of sizes, shapes & colors. In addition to the small one, I have two larger ones – another in basic black and one in a beautiful iridescent blue gray.

  36. The Chanel Wallet on a Chain is my favorite travel bag. Dresses up my outfit instantly with the signature Chanel chain. It has so many great features, especially the extra deep zippered pocket found in the flap. I would love to add the Pearl to my collection. I want to whole Lo & Sons line! I am obsessed with watching their videos! MZ Wallace are my favorite “work” bags, great pockets for organization and lightweight but still stylish. I have always wanted a Longchamp, but the lack of organization worries me; now that there are organizer options available, I may have to pick one up. I did notice a couple of colors on sale…

  37. My go to travel purses are Tumni, which has great areas for putting passport and other items . I have in Black and Tan. I also use my nylon Prada which has an outside pocket and several inside.

  38. Have been carrying the APC demi-lune bag for the last eight months and just bought its bigger cousin, the Gaby, to use when in Paris next week (I think you just featured one of these on your blog?). The Gaby has a zip top, is small but not too small, and has a nice webbed cross-body strap. I don’t tend to carry much in my purse when traveling – phone, small wallet, lipstick and umbrella – and so this works for me.

    Although I have considered getting an RFID bag or a slash-proof bag, I think about all of the Parisian women who carry bags around every day. I just use a crossbody, keep the bag to my front and the zipper closed (and the zipper tab to the center of my body) and then don’t worry.

  39. For a relatively inexpensive, capacious, and not-bad-looking alternative, I recommend (and have been using as my day-to-day bag) Lululemon’s All Night Festival crossbody, which is made of water-repellent nylon and has two zippered exterior pockets plus a zippered main compartment. It comes in various seasonal colors plus black. (I hope they bring back the beautiful and versatile Antique Copper!)

    A minority opinion on the Lo & Sons Pearl bag: After reading about it on this blog, I bought one for myself … and ended up selling it at a consignment store a few months later. It drove me nuts that the zippered compartments were exactly the same size and shape–I could never remember in which compartment I’d put stuff! And although I agree that the leather is lovely and the craftsmanship excellent, I had to acknowledge my personal quirk: I just don’t like straight lines or right angles. I’m currently searching for a small leather crossbody with a more rounded shape–perhaps the newish Hobo Fern Messenger crossbody in Cashew. There are also some nice-looking, well-priced alternatives on The Real Real (where, unfortunately, handbags are not returnable).

  40. I have a few Baggalini bags at home, as well as a Travelon that I hate, and yet will buy another bag for my next big trip. It’s part of the joy of trip planning for me. I like to fit a small water bottle, a cardigan or scarf (I’m petite so the cardigan is small), and a Rick Steves book. My budget is Baggalini at Amazon or Marshall’s. I’m only 4-10 and overall petite, so I find the bags that are wider than longer to look like they are consuming me. I like a narrower bag (like my old Baggalini triple zip) but one that has enough depth to hold everything. I love a bucket bag and hope to find that shape in nylon crossbody. (my winter bag is exactly that, but it’s suede so not for travel)

  41. I have the Lo & Sons Pearl bag black and now navy. They are the perfect size to carry all my essentials as long as I don’t need an umbrella or a raincoat in my bag. These have become my everyday purses. My black bag has gotten pretty scuffed up, but it also suffered several years of near everyday use. I just wish they made a version in Camel or true brown. The Sienna color is too red to work with my wardrobe. I am not bothered by the lack of a zipper on the center pocket, because it does snap securely closed and I use a flat “credit card” wallet that I can slide into the zippered pocket closest to my body anyway. The strap is thin, but I recently discovered the “guitar strap” purse strap trend. This allows you to add a little personality to an otherwise basic bag and the wider strap is more comfortable for use all day long. Elie Beaumont has a wide variety of different colors and patterns of straps that will jazz up any neutral bag.

  42. Anybody else have a Sash bag? They are out of CA but also have a Canadian site. I have two, amazing bag for travel not inexpensive but the leather is fantastic. It’s a unique concept for a cross body that looks sleek and elegant yet keeps you hands free. It can be worn under a jacket too. I have a honey in the extra corset style and a black classic which I will be upgrading soon..it’s showing it’s years.
    https://www.thesashbag.com/

  43. My all-time favorite travel bag is the Tumi Aberdeen crossbody bag, which has a built-in wallet in the front zippered section and a zippered section with one pocket in the back. I can carry cards, money, my passport, my phone and one of those small travel umbrellas with ease. I have the bag in black but sadly. It’s no longer being produced. In the meantime, one may pop up for sale on eBay: the bag is here: https://www.tumi.com/p/aberdeen-crossbody-leather-01100231041/

    Over the last two months I spent in France, I used that Tumi bag and a Longchamps City Tote in black. The City Tote is plastic coated twill, so very water resistant and great for quick shopping trips as it holds quite a bit. I’d tuck my Metro card, my phone, and a credit card into the inner pocket, throw in an umbrella if it looks like rain, and have everything that I needed. Lots of room for a few groceries, a bottle of wine, or a new shirt that I just had to have 🙂

    I learned about the Pearl from you and I have it in the metallic grey. I don’t travel with it but it’s my everyday bag – I’m using it right now. I like the multiple pockets and the Saffiano leather which wears well.

  44. Susan, do you have the Safiano, Napa or Cactus leather finish on the Lo & Sons bag? I’d like to get the cognac color which is in Napa only but wondering how it holds up for travel. I have a short handled Kate Spade bag that I’ve used everywhere for the last 4 years and it still looks great but I’d like a crossbody for convenience. Thanks

    1. Hi Kelly, I have both the Napa and the Saffiano. The Napa is a little bit lighter and softer. The Saffiano is more structured and has a very durable finish. I’ve used both for travel. The Napa may get a little scuffed if it’s tossed around, but I have no complaints about how mine has held up.

  45. I have the MZ Wallace Paige and it is a heavy heavy bag. Cute as heck but heavy when it’s empty and bigger than it looks in the photo. I traveled with it and it does hold a lot but….heavy. I have a Lo & Sons Pearl and it seems cramped and narrow to me and when I put in all my stuff, it has lumps and bulges but I’m stuck with it and it’s a nice color (I’ve used it once). I have a Baggalini and no matter what shape or size you may like, this brand is a workhorse and, for a travel purse, not bad looking (if you are trying to hide the fact that you are a tourist, this bag won’t help you!); I have a medium navy rectangular style with a zip pocket on the outside on each side…it works well..utilitarian. I rarely haul around my iPad on a daily basis as my iPhone does the trick so my everyday purses aren’t based on that use. For me, smaller is often better. I have always carried a market bag that stuffs into itself and besides my wallet it is the second most important item in my bag. In terms of wallets, I never carry my credit cards, ID and money in the same wallet…a recipe for problems IMHO. I’ve traveled since I was 16 (a long long time ago) and have just learned to keep it simple and safe. I do pack one very small Perla black crossbody bag even though it has a thin strap because on some days I just want to carry the bare minimum: my phone, some money with a credit card (one of them not in the purse) and ID and a lipstick and it is perfect…about 8 inches by 5 inches. Happy travels!

  46. I have an ancient Longchamp crossbody bag that’s so old, I can’t even find a stock photo to include here. What I love about it is, it’s navy blue, it has silver hardware, it has a wide crossbody strap that’s long enough for tall women, it does not have any doodads like tassels or buckles, and it’s apparently indestructible. Love!

    In a nod to being more … something, maybe more trendy or fashionable, I ordered a Dagne Dover crossbody bag last month — and promptly returned it. I guess I am not a neoprene kind of woman. But if you are, the bags are very lightweight and thoughtfully designed.

  47. Susan, on a different subject related to color….. have you seen the new Eileen Fisher collection? Would you think the Cinnabar ( red) would be part of the autumn palate? Thank you!

  48. I use Tumi for travel and carry the Lo and Sons Pearl as my everyday bag. The organizational features are fantastic. I agree that the strap is a little too skinny and have replaced it with one from Mautto. They have a great selection of leather and nylon straps in different colors and sizes. https://mautto.com/

    Love your blog, and your great new hair color!

  49. May I suggest another brand of good casual travel bags to consider: Hedgren. On recent casual/adventure expeditions in Australia, several women carried different styles from the brand. I have since purchased one that I have used for travel and everyday. It’s great. Lots of pockets and zip/secure compartments, roomy enough for a small water bottle. I have my eye on a slightly larger model.
    Hedgren is a Belgian brand that is available on-line and in Nordstrom stores in the US and elsewhere. Great discussion! Thanks all.

  50. I’ll put in a plug for Parisian brand Nat & Nin. They have a US web site as well as a French one, but their only stores are in Paris and Rennes. I bought a crossbody bag from them last fall and am totally in love. They have a wide range of styles/sizes. Good quality leather, reasonable prices (I think mine was about 150 €). Simple styles – nothing fancy – which suits me. I’ve carried it around France and England for several months as well as daily use at home in the US, and it has held up extremely well.

  51. I note there was a comment that MZ Wallace Paige is heavy when empty. I am 5’2 and 125 lbs and Paige is weightless to me, when empty. It’s been a real workhorse for me when traveling or running multiple errands. I love the organization and it accommodates my bulky eyeglass case, other odds and ends, including an umbrella, and more. Nice to have options. There was also a mini Paige, but I believe that has been discontinued along with the larger bag. I have the Lo & Son’s Pearl and I like it, but I do have to pare down and I’m not sure I would consider it for travel. I have used it for going out to dinner and theater.

  52. I bought a Lo & Sons Pearl in 2019 on your recommendation…. and I liked it so much I bought another one this year! I do travel – I live in NZ – and it’s absolute heaven as a secure walking-around bag. I took it on a recent trip to the US and I was zipping through security areas with my passport and COVID paperwork to hand. My Kindle fit perfectly into it, and it even takes a small water bottle or can of soda and a snack in its central area. What’s more, the Lo & Sons I bought in 2019 still looks like new.

  53. A little off subject but something I observed in this repost from a few years back. I’m not sure if your coat is black or dark navy, but what a difference when you wear your colors from your spring palette. The dark color seems too harsh against your coloring in this picture. Even your natural hair color now is a better fit—a much softer look. Your new color palette makes you shine and more vibrant.

  54. Adding to this! I commented above about using/loving my ancient Longchamp cross-body while traveling, but totally forgot to say I use a lightweight backpack as my carry-on luggage — and want to give a shout-out to KNOMO London, who make my absolute favorite backpacks. They offer a choice of gold or silver hardware, a range of colors and sizes, and very elegant, functional design features. When the plane lands, I grab my KNOMO and head off. My Longchamp crossbody is packed away inside it, waiting.

    This is my current favorite, but there are multiple options:

    https://knomo.com/products/beauchamp-l-14-laptop-backpack-dark-navy-blazer-119-419-blz

  55. I had never heard of MZ Wallace so looked at their site. I love the bags! I wish there was a budget Verizon of MZ Wallace.

    1. Rhonda,

      Check Poshmark for pre-owned MZ Wallace bags. Some of the pre-owned bags are NWT (new with tags). I will say that the NWT bags don’t typically represent much in the way of cost savings, but occasionally there are exceptions.

      1. Nearly everything I own comes from thrift stores, so I’m happy to peruse Poshmark, Closet, ThredUp, etc. (I come here for style ideas, not shopping ideas.)

        1. Rhonda, interesting distinction. I think you’ve captured the change I see in many style blogs today — all due, IMO, to the rise of social media and the need to monetize one’s interests.

          1. Hi Bette, yes I monetize, as writing this blog is my livelihood, and I don’t apologize for that. I’m also providing ideas and information free to readers. If people find the ideas helpful and adaptable to their circumstances, fantastic! There’s no obligation to purchase anything or pay a subscription fee, so ads and affiliate links are how I support my work. The same is true for many of my fellow bloggers.

  56. Thanks for the reply! Exactly! I appreciate how you are upfront about your blog and social media and doing sponsored posts, etc. I think you provide a wealth of information on style and color (and travel) that is helpful to everyone, free of charge. Much appreciated!

  57. Sue all those are cute but I have to take a pass on the Bagalini. The MZ Wallace looks light and practical. ❤️

  58. I am traveling with the Baggalini style you have in the blog. It is too small for water, but fits even my larger phone and sunglasses and it works as a casual purse. So far I like it. I traveled with a small pac safe theft-deterrent crossbody in May and it got heavy and had no outside pocket for easy phone access. I put my phone on a lanyard and clipped it to the key holder ring and just left one zipper pocket slightly opened. Nothing else in that pocket. It was still rather “clunky” for me.