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The 15 best fanny packs and belt bags for travel.

Find the perfect hands-free style for your on-the-go essentials.

The Best Fanny Packs and Belt Bags

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

There's no disputing that fanny packs are a useful accessory. They free up your hands while keeping everything at your fingertips. Plus, you don't have to suffer the excess heat on your back that often plagues backpack users, nor will you have to switch the strap to avoid shoulder pain (looking at you, tote bags).

Thankfully, fanny packs of the 21st century have gotten a makeover since their popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. Yes, you can still find packs adorned with wild shapes, in Outrun color schemes or made with iridescent material, but many of them are more fashion-forward. They come in neutral tones, classic designs and have unique features to keep you organized.

In the market for a fanny pack? Based on consumer reviews and travel expert insights, these are the best fanny packs for travelers. Whether you're vacationing solo , heading out on a hike or taking the kids to Walt Disney World , there's something on this list for you.

The Top Fanny Packs and Belt Bags for Travel in 2023

Best overall: dagne dover ace fanny pack, best overall (at a lower price point): jansport fifth avenue fanny pack, best budget: waterfly slim fanny pack.

• Best Crossbody: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Belt Bag: Lo & Sons Waverly 2

Best Waterproof: AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap

• Best Plus Size: Olimpiafit Fanny Pack

Best Anti-Theft: Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack

Best for parents: kibou bag, best for kids: everest junior waist pack, best leather: genius leather shop leather fanny pack, best for festivals: sojourner holographic rave fanny pack, best for theme parks: baboon to the moon fannypack, best for hiking: cotopaxi bataan fanny pack.

• Best for Skiing: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

What sets this pack apart: Dagne Dover's fanny pack is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it an appealing option for eco-conscious travelers . The bag features three different sections: a front zip area, the main zippered compartment and a card slot on the back. Inside the main pocket, you'll find slots for both lip balm and cards or cash, plus a key clip. The fanny pack's neoprene material is also water-resistant and has an adjustable waist strap. This pack comes in classic colors, including blush, olive, camel, black and gray. Special seasonal colors may also be available.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say the bag is excellent for everyday use and they love being hands-free while traveling or running errands. Others note that the bag can be small if you have a large phone plus other items inside.

Price: $95 or less Shop now: Dagne Dover

What sets this pack apart: This bag holds all your travel essentials in a main zippered compartment with a small zip pouch on the front and a fully adjustable waist. When empty, the pack weighs just 4.5 ounces, and it is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including lilac, camouflage, floral and black.

Travelers appreciate: Users of this bag praise the variety of colors and patterns, noting it's best for those traveling light (think: a few credit cards, phone and lip balm).

Price: $22 or less Shop now: JanSport | Amazon

Courtesy of Waterfly

What sets this pack apart: This budget-friendly and compact design measures 8 x 2.5 x 4.3 inches, making it an excellent size to store your keys, cards and a smartphone (note that the bag can only accommodate phones measuring less than 6.5 inches). The front has three separate compartments: one large zippered section, a small zippered pouch and a covered pocket; there is also a zippered back pocket. The Waterfly bag is constructed with a water-resistant fabric in a variety of colors and patterns, and the adjustable belt can accommodate 20- to 50-inch waists.

Travelers appreciate: Though some reviewers note this pack is too small to use as an everyday bag, active travelers say it is a perfect size for stowing essentials during a bike ride, kayaking trip or hike. Others note that it makes a comfortable sling bag, too.

Price: $19.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Crossbody: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

What sets the pack apart: The bag features a water-repellent fabric with two zipper compartments: one main section (which includes a mesh pouch inside) and one along the back exterior. This crossbody comes in multiple colors, including gray, black, silver and white. Select colors feature fabric made from recycled materials.

Travelers appreciate: "I started using the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag when I would take my son to a park or playground because it allowed me to keep my hands free and also kept all my essentials at my fingertips (without being bulky)," says Ann Henson , assistant managing editor of travel at U.S. News. "Now I use this as my everyday bag. It's easy to wipe clean and the interior pockets keep everything organized." Reviewers also like the extendable strap, which reaches 41.7 inches at its full extension.

Price: $48 or less Shop now: Lululemon

Best Belt Bag: Lo & Sons Waverley 2

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

What sets the pack apart: If flexibility is your main requirement of a fanny pack, consider the Waverley 2 from Lo & Sons, a business founded by Chinese immigrant Helen Lo and her sons. Not only can the Waverley be worn as a belt bag, but it can also be worn as a crossbody purse, carried as a wristlet or clutch, or used as a shoulder bag. You can select from two different sizes (small and large) and three different kinds of leather, one of which is plant-based. Bags come in an assortment of colors and silver, gunmetal, gold or brass hardware.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say the bag is perfect for carrying essentials on the go and compliment the bag's construction.

Price: $210 or less Shop now: Lo & Sons

Courtesy of AiRunTech

What sets this pack apart: This waterproof hip pack protects belongings from getting wet up to 32 feet underwater. There are three different zip locks to keep valuables safe, plus each bag is see-through and touch-screen friendly (except the black version) to access devices while keeping them stowed. Another bonus? Bags come in sets of two.

Travelers appreciate: The bag really works. For everything from embarking on cruises to snorkeling in Costa Rica 's waters, users tout how easy the bags are to use. Plus, travelers like that bags can be worn as a waist pack or over the shoulder.

Price: $16.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Plus Size: OlimpiaFit Fanny Pack

What sets this pack apart: The OlimpiaFit bag fits waists up to 44 inches and comes with an extender that provides another 18 inches. Two large compartments fit everything from wallets to small water bottles, while the two front pouches keep necessities like keys and hand sanitizer in easy reach. There are also two hidden pockets for keeping valuables safe from pickpockets. A small opening at the side of this fanny pack allows headphone cords through. You can get yours in navy, gray, purple or black.

Travelers appreciate: The bag has plenty of room to store belongings, and users rave about the length of the belt. Others wish the bag was better quality, saying the pack can be pretty quick to fray.

Price: $22 or less Shop now: Amazon

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Courtesy of Travelon

What sets this pack apart: Thanks to RFID-blocking technology, locking waist straps, locking zippers and slash-resistant material, this Travelon fanny pack is ideal for travelers who want some extra security during their vacations. The bag features front and rear zippered pockets and the interior has a key clip plus a small light. The strap can accommodate waists up to 46 inches.

Travelers appreciate: The security features, plus the bag's classic style, appeal to reviewers. Some travelers say the bag was too small for their needs, while others say it was just the right size for essentials (like a passport, credit cards and a phone). Keep in mind: To take full advantage of the security features, you'll have to relock the bag each time you get something out.

Price: $50 or less Shop now: Amazon | Travelon Bags

Courtesy of Kibou

What sets this pack apart: This hybrid bag combines everything travelers love about fanny packs with the necessities of a diaper bag. The pack has a main zippered compartment – complete with key hook – as well as a front zippered pocket with slots for cash and credit cards. At the back, there's a waterproof compartment perfect for wet wipes or soiled baby clothes. The second back compartment contains a removable changing pad. You can get a belt extender (for free!) to extend the length of the belt to 66 inches; the attached belt has a maximum of 48 inches. Bags come in either vegan leather or canvas. Color options include blush, jade and black.

Travelers appreciate: While some parents note the bag is a little small to carry all the essentials (spare diapers, a bottle, snacks, etc.), most parents love its convenience. They also appreciate that it's easily wiped clean.

Price: $98 or less Shop now: Kibou

What sets this pack apart: From snacks to fidget spinners, children have their own necessities during a trip. Everest's kid-sized waist pack could fit the bill. The pack itself measures approximately 8.3 x 2.8 x 3.5 inches and weighs just over 3 ounces when empty. The pack has two front-access zippered compartments. There are several kid-friendly color options, such as coral, purple, hot pink and turquoise.

Travelers appreciate: Travelers say the pack is perfect for small children, noting it fits their kids well and gives them space to keep small objects (such as rocks and seashells) safe as they explore. Nevertheless, parents do warn the buckle can be finicky and that the excess strap is long after adjusting.

Price: $21 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Genius Leather Shop

What sets this pack apart: This genuine leather fanny pack comes not only in your standard black and brown hues; it's also available in burgundy, mustard and cognac. The bag has a zippered pocket on the backside. The main zippered compartment on the front features a pocket ideal for cards and cash. The strap is adjustable from 33.5 to 52 inches. For an additional fee, the company will engrave the buckle or emboss a leather tag for the front of the pack.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers point out the fine quality and beauty of the leather. Many report using it for day-to-day activities, though some report minor issues with the hardware.

Price: $82 or less Shop now: Etsy

Courtesy of SoJourner

What sets this pack apart: SoJourner's fanny pack comes in brightly colored geometric prints, galaxy prints, holographic gold or silver, glitter, sequins, and colorful transparent – along with a clear option if you're looking for a stadium-compliant bag . To sum up: These bags aren't for fashion conservatives. The packs have three pockets, with two on the front and one along the back. Plus, the material is water-resistant. While the strap adjusts to fit waists up to 48 inches, you can also purchase an extender to add another 13 inches (including the buckles).

Travelers appreciate: Most reviewers love the fanny pack, noting it's particularly great for concerts and events. A few reviewers mention some issues with quality.

Price: $17.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Baboon to the Moon

What sets this pack apart: The bag comes in a variety of colors like yellow and lavender, as well as a choice of a 3-liter and 1.5-liter sizes. The Cordura nylon shell is water-resistant, and the main compartment is equipped with mesh pockets and a key hook. Two additional zippered compartments (one on the front and one on the back) allow for additional storage as you pack your belongings for a day at an amusement park .

Travelers appreciate: Those who use this fanny park praise the color selection and the fact that the bag holds a lot. Some note issues with the straps, saying the belts are shorter than anticipated.

Price: $65 or less Shop now: Baboon to the Moon

What sets this pack apart: Each multicolor Cotopaxi fanny pack is one-of-a-kind. Possible color options include everything from bright green or orange to neon yellow or soft gray. Purchasers have the option to select their own bag or can save a few dollars by receiving a mystery bag (and have no control over the colors). What's more, its materials are sustainably sourced: Packs are made from surplus nylon fabric that otherwise would've ended up in a landfill. The single zip compartment has two internal mesh pockets to help keep belongings organized.

Travelers appreciate: "Besides being fun to look at and wear, this durable fanny pack really packs a punch when it comes to outdoor activities," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "In addition to my phone, wallet and keys, I'm able to fit other hiking must-haves like snacks, first aid supplies and even a small water bottle. Plus, with two mesh pockets inside, it's easy to keep things organized."

Price: $37.50 or less Shop now: Cotopaxi | REI

Best for Skiing: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L

Courtesy of Patagonia

What sets this pack apart: Patagonia's pack has a classic style, with one large zip pouch and a smaller zippered enclosure on the front. It comes in multiple colors from basic black to slate blue to muted purple. What's more, the pack stows away into a stuff sack for easy portability on your ski trip and weighs less than 4 ounces. It's also made with 100% recycled materials.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers agree this fanny pack is an excellent purchase, saying it holds everything they need for running errands or schussing down the slopes. However, some do wish there was more interior organization. Patagonia also makes a larger version of this pack.

Price: $35 or less Shop now: Patagonia | REI

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Marisa Méndez is an avid gear connoisseur who's constantly on the hunt for her next perfect travel item, which must always have ample organization options. Current favorites are a large L.L. Bean toiletry kit , a Scout bag (which is her beach tote) and her trusty Samsonite carry-on . She used her love of organization and painstaking research to come up with this list of fanny packs. Méndez is currently deciding which color of the Waterfly pack to purchase for her trail runs.

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These are the 11 best travel fanny packs for easy, hands-free travel

• If you want to keep your hands (and pockets) free but need a place for keys, credit cards, your phone, etc. then modern-day fanny packs are a fabulous option when you're traveling or even running around town.
• Available at a variety of price points, with most falling in the $30-$100 range, these bags can be an affordable addition to your luggage line-up.
• The best sling bags can be worn in a variety of ways, match your style and are made of a comfortable and durable material that won't irritate you after several hours on the go.

I lived through the first fanny pack era. In the '80s, parents wore them when we were out and about as a family on busy vacation days, meaning that many of us from that generation — myself included ‚ grew up avoiding them like an uncool plague ... at least, until recently. The '80s are apparently once again cool, meaning even fanny packs are back in style.

Unlike the fanny packs of yesteryear, today's travel fanny packs have taken on a new identity.

Also referred to as sling bags, crossbody bags and belt bags, this latest iteration of the classic accessory is now most commonly slung across the chest with the pack part in either the front or back instead of across the waist.

Whether this is your first (or second) era with the fanny pack, they are undeniably handy — so here are our top picks for travel.

• Best for active use: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag .
• Best for budget-conscious travelers : Herschel Seventeen Waist Pack .
• Best for storage space: Fjällräven Ulvo Belt Bag Large .
• Best for hidden pockets: Dagne Dover Ace Water Resistant Belt Bag .
• Best for an '80s throwback look: Cotopaxi Bataan Del Día 3L Fanny Pack .
• Best for an elevated look: Clare V. Fanny Pack .
• Best for customizing: Stoney Clover Women's Fanny Pack .
• Best for extended sizing: Calpak Luka Belt Bag .
• Best for a rugged appearance: Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L .
• Best for a minimalist design: Walker Goods Louie Sling .
• Best as a diaper bag replacement: Kibou Diaper Belt Bag .

What to look for in fanny packs

The best fanny packs are the ones that are comfortable to wear all day, can hold up to some elements and have enough nooks and crannies to keep your goodies safe and organized.

Additionally, the best fanny pack for you will be the one that aligns with your style and needs, whether that's a leather ensemble you can wear while out to dinner, something themed and personalized for theme park visits or the most rugged and utilitarian option to withstand anything you may encounter while on the go.

Related: The best travel backpacks

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Purchase link: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Why we love it

As the OG belt bag, we would be remiss not to include the Everywhere Belt Bag from the omnipresent athleisure brand, Lululemon.

Since its introduction in the summer of 2020 (and subsequent presence all over TikTok), there's a good chance you've seen countless urban millennials — and then some — sporting Lulu's Everywhere Belt Bag, including TPG news reporter Caroline Tanner.

A personal favorite of Caroline, who swears by the bag, this Lulu option earns heaps of praise for its chic yet effortless look. Caroline loves that it's small enough to remain comfortable while wearing it for hours at a time as she walks around the city yet large enough to hold essential items she never leaves home without, such as sunscreen, headphones and sunglasses.

With a large interior pocket and a second pocket of the same size divided in half, you can safely store smaller items like earrings, medicine or keys while on the go without the risk of losing them. There's also an exterior pocket that zips for easy access to your key essentials.

As with most Lulu items, the Everywhere Belt Bag is designed for those on the move. It features a water-repellent fabric and an adjustable belt strap that fully extends to nearly 42 inches so it stays dry and in place no matter how long you have it on.

How it measures up

• Price: $38 and up from Lululemon; often $55 to $68 from Amazon.
• Weight: 6.7 ounces.
• Size: 7.5 by 2 by 5 inches.
• Volume: 1 liter.
• Strap length: 41.7 inches when fully extended.
• Materials: 100% polyester (mesh and liner), 100% recycled nylon (body).

Herschel Seventeen Waist Pack

Purchase link: Herschel Seventeen Waist Pack

If you want a great balance of style, form, function and budget, then Herschel is a top choice. As one of the most affordable fanny packs in the bunch, the Herschel Waist Pack has hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon — and it's easy to see why. To make it a cinch to find your most important items fast, this pack has a front pocket with a waterproof zipper and key clip.

Available in an array of color combinations and holding up to 3.5 liters of contents (one of the higher quantities of all the bags on this list), this is a fanny pack made to hit the road and come back for more.

• Price: $40 to $45 from Herschel; $32 to $50 from Amazon.
• Weight: 8.8 ounces.
• Size: 6.5 by 13 by 3.5 inches.
• Volume: 3.5 liters.
• Strap length: 16.5-inch shoulder drop.
• Materials: Polyester with nylon lining.

Fjällräven Ulvo Large Belt Bag

Purchase link: Fjällräven Large Belt Bag

The Swedish brand behind cute and trendy backpacks all over the world also offers an eye-catching belt bag for those looking for a stylish take on the classic fanny pack.

Fjällräven sells several types of these packs, but this larger option is our top pick of the bunch, as it can hold more of your goodies. We like the chic but minimal on-trend style, plus the fact that it's waterproof.

• Price $65 from Fjällräven and Nordstrom.
• Weight: 7.1 ounces.
• Size: 14 by 6.5 by 4 inches.
• Volume: 4 liters.
• Material: Nylon.

Dagne Dover Ace Belt Bag

Purchase link: Dagne Dover Ace Water Resistant Belt Bag

If we were handing out a "Best Overall Fanny Pack" trophy, this one would be a top contender. The Dagne Dover Ace Water Resistant Belt Bag is strong in virtually every category, making it a fabulous all-around pick.

Made of extremely comfortable, soft (but also durable) and water-resistant neoprene, this Dagne Dover bag is useable in a variety of real-world environments involving rain, sweat and more. Additionally, it has numerous useful loops and pockets while keeping the overt branding to a minimum.

There are little non-zippered pouches both on the outside and inside of the pouch, plus a small zippered pouch on the front. A clip is available inside, too, so you can attach your keys (or another similar item) for super quick and easy access.

The strap is wide, very adjustable and extra comfortable, making this bag one you can wear all day.

• Price: $95 from Dagne Dover and Nordstrom.
• Weight: 8 ounces.
• Size: 9.25 by 5.5 by 2.75 inches at the top and 0.5 inches at the bottom.
• Strap length: 36 inches when fully extended.
• Materials: Premium neoprene exterior, Repreve lining made of recycled plastic bottles and zinc-alloy hardware.

Cotopaxi Del Día Bataan 3L Fanny Pack

Purchase link: Cotopaxi Del Día Bataan 3L Fanny Pack

Not only does this fanny pack stand out in a crowd, but it holds just about everything you could need when you leave the house.

The Cotopaxi Del Día Bataan 3L Fanny Pack is perfect for adventurous travelers frequently roughing it outside. Made completely from sustainable materials and adhering to fair labor practices, this colorful bag has adjustable straps with a zipper-closed front pocket, which make wearing it on your back, front or hips completely comfortable. Plus, there are two mesh pockets inside the pack that expand to handle anything from a pack of gum to an AirPods case with a small charger.

The only downside? The bag is made with nylon (think: windbreaker material), so it's not completely waterproof.

• Price: $30 to $35 from Cotopaxi; $30 from Amazon.
• Weight: 4 ounces.
• Size: 9 inches by 5 inches by 4 inches.
• Volume: 3 liters.
• Material: Repurposed nylon.

Clare V. Fanny Pack

Purchase link: Clare V. Fanny Pack

This is the fanny pack for those in search of an elevated leather look. The bag comes in a variety of color options, including black, tan and a fun 1980s, punk-inspired checkered pattern. It's not cheap, but it's stylish enough to use at fancier museums, upscale restaurants and when a bold fanny pack just isn't right for the occasion.

Additionally, it's made in the USA and comes with a two-year warranty, should anything go wrong.

• Price: $285 from Clare V.
• Size: 9 by 6.5 inches.
• Strap length: 29 to 41 inches, though you can add a longer belt to your order at checkout, if desired.
• Materials: Leather with a chambray liner.

Stoney Clover Lane Fanny Pack

Purchase link: Stoney Clover Lane Women's Fanny Pack

If you want a cute, customizable fanny pack that's ideal for special outings like Disney trips, Stoney Clover Lane might be the best pick for you.

TPG contributor and theme park expert Brooke McDonald is a big fan of this brand — and, as you can see, even managed to pick a style featuring her initials and a fun Disney design. Brooke loves how she can fit all of her theme park gear in the bag.

While you don't have to get your pack personalized or with characters on it, the ability to customize it is a big part of what makes this option appealing.

• Price: $95 from Stoney Clover Lane (extra charges apply for larger sizes, themed offerings and patches for personalizing); $95 to $98 from Amazon.
• Size: 6 by 11 by 3 inches.
• Strap length: 20 to 38 inches.
• Materials: Nylon with gold metal hardware.

Calpak Luka Belt Bag

Purchase link: Calpak Luka Belt Bag

TPG director of content Andrea Rotondo has avoided belt bags in the past because the ones she tried never accommodated her. The strap didn't extend enough for a comfortable fit as a crossbody bag or while worn cinched around the waist, so she wrote off the trendy bags until recently.

For Andrea, the Calpak Luka Belt Bag was a game-changer. With an adjustable nylon belt that expands to 55 inches, she can wear this cute bag either across her body or around her waist.

The Luka Belt Bag has a puffy, quilted look with three zippered pockets: one on the exterior that runs the length of the bag and is perfect for storing a cellphone, a few bucks, a miniature notebook and a pen; and two interior pockets (one with a mesh lining) that are accessible via a zipper that goes around the top of the bag.

A favorite element of the bag — which is made with water-resistant polyester and comes in a variety of colors, including rose quartz and kale — is how quiet the bag is. Nothing rustles around while walking. Andrea also loves how slimming the bag looks even when it's packed with her go-to essentials: two pairs of glasses, a wallet and an iPhone.

• Price: $58 from Calpak and Nordstrom.
• Size: 11 by 5.5 by 3.5 inches.
• Strap length: 55 inches when fully extended.
• Materials: Polyester with an adjustable nylon strap.

Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L

Purchase link: Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L

If you love small bags made from some of the highest quality materials around, look no further than the Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L, which is owned and recommended by TPG's senior photo editor, Wyatt Smith.

From the material choices to the hardware to the internal pocket layout, this sling punches above its weight and has a sleek and stylish aesthetic to match. Evergoods stresses the ergonomics of its products when worn, and it's noticeable when you wear it across your chest or waist. The breathable back panel makes the bag incredibly comfortable.

Along with a large central pocket for general organization, there is a zippered mesh pocket and a key leash to keep smaller items organized. Evergoods also designed the bag to be customizable thanks to its loop logo patch, so you can choose which high-visibility patch you prefer.

• Price: $99 from Evergoods.
• Weight: 13.1 ounces.
• Size: 11 by 5.5 by 3 inches (not including the waist belt wings).
• Volume: 2 liters.
• Strap Length: 47.25 inches.
• Materials: Solution-dyed balanced ballistic nylon.

Walker Goods Louie Sling

Purchase link: Walker Goods Louie Sling

When the pandemic started, TPG's newsletter editor, Becky Blaine, immediately stopped using a purse and switched over to a Louie Sling from Walker Goods. Some of her other pandemic purchases didn't stand the test of time, but she calls this item her best pandemic purchase. It's become her go-to bag for both travel and everyday life.

Made for those on the go, the Louie Sling has ripstop nylon on the inside and durable water-repellent nylon on the outside. It's available in 10 bold, outdoorsy colors and features a wide, adjustable strap that's comfortable enough to wear for hours as a sling or around the waist.

This bag is outfitted with a whopping five zipper pouches. The front fleece-lined pocket is cushy enough for cellphones, while the back pocket is large enough to fit a passport. A hidden zipper on the end of the pouch is great for stashing cash, and the main zipper pouch offers enough space to fit sunglasses, a wallet, a miniature bottle of hand sanitizer, a roll of doggie poo bags, a granola bar and more. The interior's main zipper pouch also has a smaller zippered pocket that you can use for items like keys.

• Price: $48 from Walker Goods.
• Size: 12 by 6 by 2.5 inches at the top and 0.5 inches at the bottom.
• Strap length: 32 to 44.5 inches.
• Materials: Cordura with YKK zippers.

Kibou Diaper Belt Bag

Purchase link: Kibou Faux Leather Diaper Belt Bag

Once TPG's director of marketing, Caroline English, became a parent, she said that she finally understood why her friends with babies took forever to leave the house. Having to tote along all the items you need to care for another human on the go really affects your day.

Is it possible to tend to a young child without a traditional diaper bag? Caroline tested the Faux Leather Diaper Belt Bag from Kibou to see if it could stand the test on a busy day out with a 6-month-old.

Luckily for Caroline, the Kibou bag proved a stylish, comfortable way to take on motherhood. Given its compact size, the bag fit more items than she expected, including two diapers, two bottles, a onesie and a burp cloth. It also has a built-in changing pad and a waterproof pocket full of wipes.

While the bag technically held all kinds of items, it did require some careful packing to fit everything in. As a result, it's not as convenient for fast grabs. Additionally, Caroline wished there were two defined waterproof compartments (one for soiled onesies and another for wipes) instead of one larger pocket so dirty items could be stored separately. Still, she found the bag to be a solid option for short activities outside the house.

• Price: $98 from Kibou.
• Size: 11 by 6 by 4 inches.
• Strap length: 33 to 49 inches.
• Materials: Vegan leather exterior with nylon canvas interior.

Read on for more TPG best-of-gear reviews and round-ups:

• Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 review
• 13 must-have items the TPG team won't travel without
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• Baby gear items that make travel easier

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The 18 Best Belt Bags, Tested & Reviewed by Our Editors

Can’t say we’re ever going back to a simple shoulder purse.

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Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Alexander Huang

In terms of handbags, the belt bag is in a little class of its own. Unlike a classic shoulder purse or tote, it carries only the essentials and keeps you completely arms-free. It’s no surprise, therefore, that blogger and style consultant Lauren Parry mostly prefers the belt bag over any other option. “Whether I’m headed out for errands, traveling, going to a concert venue, or a sporting event, belt bags are a game changer.”

To help you find your own perfect match, we tried just about every belt bag below, assessing organization, function, and style along the way. See and shop them, below.

Best Overall

Dagne dover ace fanny pack.

Dagne Dover

What We Love: Out of all the belt bags we tested, we found ourselves reaching for this one the most thanks to its effortless style, long belt, and comfortable wear.

What We Don’t Love: There isn’t an extra slot for you to hide your phone away.

We fell in love with the Dagne Dover fanny pack the second we pulled it out of its pouch. Everything from the size, material, and ergonomics appealed to us. Unlike your typical cotton or leather belt bag, this one is made of premium neoprene, Dagne Dover’s signature tear-resistant fabric, which feels thick, plush, and high-end. When we (accidentally) poured coffee over it while camping, it simply rolled right off the bag without leaving a trace, which was incredibly impressive. There are two zipped pockets — a little one at the front and another for the main pocket — with a little credit card slot, key hook, and chapstick strap inside. None of these slits were big enough to compartmentalize our phones away so that we needed to sit in the main cabin along with our wallet, snacks, hair clip, and notebook.

The strap also felt substantial — thick, sturdy, and easily adjustable. It can extend up to 36 inches long, which made it easy to sling across our bodies and change up the style a little. It even fit flawlessly over our thick coat — one that has hide sleeves. Its versatility and generous size allowed us to travel all around Los Angeles, Denver, and Seattle with it, leaving not a single scratch or tear on the bag.

Colors: 19 | Material: Premium neoprene, recycled repreve | Size: 9.25 (L) x 5.5 (H) x 2.75 (D) inches

InStyle / Anna Popp

Best Budget

Ododos unisex mini belt bag with adjustable strap.

What We Love: Despite the small size, we found that we can fit a lot of items into the pouch.

What We Don’t Love: The stitching doesn’t feel extremely sturdy.

There’s a certain very popular belt bag, namely the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag (more on that below), and we found this Ododos Mini Belt Bag to be the perfect budget alternative. We found it extremely practical, because although it’s quite small in size, it still fit all our essentials. The strap adjusts easily, allowing us to alternate between carrying it around our waist and as a sling depending on the activity we were engaged in. We’ve taken it on hikes, to run errands, to festivals, and on travels, as it can be easily incorporated into any outfit and holds almost anything we put in it, from a women's wallet to a phone to granola bars and keys. We could even stuff a small Fiji water bottle in it. The mesh divider inside the pouch also helped compartmentalize some items. As an affordable item, the stitching is not always extremely sturdy, we found. At times we worried that the zipper might rip, but if it ever did, it wouldn’t hurt to repurchase the item at this price. 

Colors: 1 | Material: Nylon | Size: 8 (L) x 5 (H) x 2 (D) inches

Best Splurge

Senreve belt bag.

What We Love: You can customize the strap.

What We Don’t Love: The leather won't fair well against friction or sweat, so it’s only reserved for more elevated events

In keeping with Senreve’s luxurious style, the Aria belt bag has to be one of the brand’s most practical bags. Coming with a stylish front flap (with a magnetic snap closure), an extra exterior pouch, and a stain-resistant micro-suede interior, the bag fits all of our essentials including a phone, wallet, lip gloss, keys, and sunglasses. Believe it or not, we even fit a foldable shopping bag and a small umbrella. Inside the zippered compartment, we kept our AirPods, although a small wallet would have fit as well. Two card slots made our hotel card and MetroCard easy to access.

The leather belt portion isn’t sewn onto the bag, so we were able to remove it and swap it with a chain from Amazon . We loved styling it in various ways, using it as a clutch one day, a belt bag another, and a crossbody for nights out. It simply elevated any look with its expensive appeal without loudly showing off any designer labels (keeping to that quiet luxury trend). The leather is not going to weather well against friction, sweat, or rain, however, so make sure to pick the right day and outfit to wear it with.

Colors: 15 | Material: Italian leather | Size: 8 (L) x 5 (H) x 2 (D) inches

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

What We Love: It seems to expand internally, holding all of our essentials with ease. 

What We Don’t Love: You cannot wash this bag.

Hikers, runners, and ballers, if you don’t already have the Lululemon belt bag, allow us a minute of your time to convert you. The bag somehow expanded internally to fit whatever we wanted as if it were Mary Poppins' bag. We were able to fit our phones, keys, AirPods, lip balms, and even the ball we then used to play tennis with. For us trailblazers, this bag holds trail mix and a bottle of facial sunscreen as well. In the back pocket, we were able to stash our phones and keep the bag flush with the body. Somehow, even with all of our goodies, the bag remained nice and lightweight. It made it very appealing on days when we knew we would be out for a long time. The water-repellent fabric makes it ideal for outdoor use, too. The only con here is that you cannot wash it. If we want to give it a little refresh, we have to spot-clean it carefully.

Colors: 6 | Material: Recycled polyester, recycled nylon | Size: 8.3 (L) x 5.7 (H) x 2.2 (D) inches

Best Plus-Size

Athleta belt bag.

What We Love: It has a UPF 50+ protection and is water-repellent. 

What We Don’t Love: The strap feels a little thin and doesn’t hold the weight of the bag up against the waist properly.

For a little more sporty and casual look, take a look at this belt bag from Athleta, which entrepreneur and fashion consultant Katie Sturino wears on power walks. We found this one to be smaller and more compact compared to the other options, like the Dagne Dover or Calpak bags, which made the bag much more discreet and practical for grabbing our essentials and running out of the house. The smaller size also makes it easier to wear underneath a jacket without looking too bulky. And while most exterior pockets usually come in a tiny slit, big enough for maybe some keys, this one is big enough to fit a 1.52-ounce hand cream. Accessing our belongings was also very easy here as the zipper curves down the sides of the bag, making it open up widely. And as a little cherry on top, it’s both water-repellent and UPF 50+ protected, making this ideal for everyday adventures out and about. 

Our biggest quarrel with the bag was that the strap was rather slim. While it does feed into a clean and minimalist aesthetic, when wrapped around our waist, the weight of the bag pulled it down a little which felt awkward at times. That being said, we appreciated how long the strap was, making it fit a variety of bodies. Any excess strap could easily be tucked into the rubber piece to prevent any dangling.

Colors: 10 | Material: Polyester, recycled polyester | Size: 7 (L) x 4.5 (H) x 2 (D) inches

Most Spacious

Calpak luka belt bag.

What We Love: It's extremely spacious without being too bulky.

What We Don’t Love: The strap feels a little flimsy.

The luggage specialists at Calpak knew what they were doing when they designed this Luka belt bag. The bag is deceivingly spacious, fitting our large hair claw, wallet, phone, dog treats, and even a ball. But while most bags that fit that many things look and feel bulky, this one remains rather flat against the hip. It’s definitely bigger than the Athelta option, or even the Dagne Dover one, but we didn’t find it heavy or taking too much space.

Among the bag's most notable features is the hidden back pocket. It’s quite large and even fit our phone sans problem. We imagine this would become a huge help while on the go when you want to keep your passport as secure and close to you as possible. The cushiony exterior also felt comfortable on our bodies and protective of our valuables. And as a bonus, it’s water-resistant, thereby keeping everything nice and dry while you’re sightseeing, in case you get caught in the rain. Even the zipper felt superior, gliding open and closed seamlessly. The only thing we didn’t love was the strap. While it is very gracious in length, its softness lacks structure and width, making it feel a little flimsy.

Colors: 20 | Material: Polyester | Size: 8.5 (L) x 5.25 (H) x 1.5 (D) inches

InStyle / Taylor Calta

The North Face Isabella Sling

The North Face

What We Love: There is a pocket with a soft interior lining that’s perfect for delicate items like sunglasses. 

What We Don’t Love: We wish it came in more color options.

Sure, a sling bag doesn’t necessarily constitute a belt bag, but we felt it necessary to highlight this alternative as something more mom-friendly. We were able to carry our essentials, plus our kids' toys, snacks, and juice boxes in this North Face Isabella Sling. Our hands remained free, and the snap buckle closure on the strap allowed us to easily remove the bag once home or pause between errands. Best of all for folks always working, the large compartment even had space for our iPad, which allowed us to get work done during a quick break from running around. 

The organization capabilities of this bag were also impressive. While in a rush, it was always easy to know exactly where all of our things were, sparing us from rummaging through what seemed like a black hole. There’s a pocket on the strap where we kept our phone for easy access, as well as a front pocket with a softer lining, good for keeping sunglasses scratch-free. We only wish we had more color options, as the cream would get dirty quickly and the blue is not always fitting to our outfits. A classic black would have sealed the deal.

Colors: 5 | Material: Recycled polyester | Size: 9.5 (L) x 14.5 (H) x 5.5 (D) inches

Best Unisex

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

What We Love: It fits an impressive amount of items in the pouch.

What We Don’t Love: We wish it had outer pockets.

People of all genders and ages have something to love about the Uniqlo mini shoulder bag. While it isn’t labeled as a belt bag, it holds many of the same functions as one — and you can wear it as such. The simple demi-circle design might not seem like much at first, but it holds an impressive amount of items while on the go, including AirPods, wallets, keys, and even a 16-ounce water bottle. The unisex appeal made it easy to share with our significant other, with whom we now alternate usage of the bag. We also loved just how lightweight the bag is. It’s thickly lined so that it doesn’t feel at risk of tearing, but weighs as much as a T-shirt. With adjustable straps that accommodate a range of body sizes, we felt that this bag would be universally loved by all. Unfortunately, there aren’t many compartments inside the bag, nor is there an outer pocket. You will have to be okay with throwing everything into one big pouch. 

Colors: 9 | Material: Polyester | Size: 11 (L) x 6.7 (H) x 3.9 (D) inches

Most Durable

Jansport fanny pack.

What We Love: The durable canvas will easily last over a decade.

What We Don’t Love: It’s a little chunky and large.

If you’ve ever had a Jansport backpack in high school, then you already know how much weight (and careless tossing around) the bag can withstand. It’s likely the beat-up bag is still in your closet somewhere, looking a little dusty but ready to be at your service at any given moment. You can expect the same durability in this indestructible fanny pack. 

More than just reliable materials, however, the bag was thoughtfully constructed. The exterior pocket is not just there for decoration, as some tiny bags have, but spacious enough to hold hand creams and facial sunscreen. We were able to place everything from small notebooks to snacks along with our everyday essentials in here. On top of being very strong and stretch-resistant, the strap is easily adjustable and long enough to wear around the waist or the body. As a size 16, we felt we had enough of the strap to wrap around our body, so we qualify it as size-inclusive. All of these great amenities are bundled into a rather large and chunky-looking bag, which may not be fit for a stylish day in town, but is perfect for travel and exploring. 

Colors: 10 | Material: Recycled polyester | Size: 6 (L) x 10 (W) x 2.5 (D) inches

Best for Travel

Patagonia ultralight black hole mini hip pack.

What We Love: It’s tear and weather-resistant while being extremely lightweight. 

What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t have many neutral color options.

Belt bags in general are always great options for travel, but this one in particular has a leg up on the rest for two very unique reasons. The first is that it can be converted into a carrying pouch simply by turning it inside out — this allows for easy packing and transport. The second is that it’s extremely lightweight, almost featherlike, minimizing the amount of weight you need to schlep around on your trips. 

We traveled around Europe with this bag and found it extremely easy to pack our everyday essentials. Passports, chapsticks, sunglasses, wallets, and AirPods alike fit into the two main compartments of the bag. Despite it being small and airy, the recycled nylon ripstop fabric was very durable and even weather-resistant, expertly protecting all of our valuables. The strap was also quite long, which made it easy to adjust around our bodies whether we wanted to wear it on our hips or diagonally across our chests. It always remained flush against our bodies which freed up our eyes to take in the sights worry-free. Aside from the black, the bag isn’t offered in many neutral tones, making it difficult to match with our carefully curated travel outfits. 

Colors: 6 | Material: Recycled nylon ripstop | Size: 4.75 (L) x 8 (H) x 2 (D) inches

Best Expandable

Peak design field pouch v2.

Peak Design

What We Love: The interior is felted, soft enough for delicate camera gear.

What We Don’t Love: The straps are a little slim and flimsy.

On any given day, your essentials can change from just a wallet and a phone to a camera, water bottle, and a tripod. Peak Design took our ranging activities to mind and created this expandable waist bag. It can carry anything between 1.5 liters to three liters, simply by extending the top fold. It features a zipper closure, eight compartments, and a soft interior lining fit to protect any camera gear. In other words, it’s ideal for the outdoorsy adventurers who need their extra batteries and different lenses easily grabbable, on top of their other essentials. 

But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a photographer to enjoy this bag. We found it plenty useful as a travel bag as well, leaning the pouch on our hips while using the long straps as a crossbody bag. Which brings us to an important note: the straps were a little thin and flimsy. We wish they were thicker, or able to convert into a belt, but instead we mostly used it as a messenger bag. 

Colors: 3 | Material: Nylon, leather | Size: 7.5 (L) x 9.4 (H) x 0.4 (D) inches

Best Everyday

Alo explorer fanny pack.

What We Love: We could even fit a rolled up tote bag and a water bottle in this bag. 

What We Don’t Love: It’s not weatherproof.

For our everyday pick, we wanted something sleek, well-designed, and durable — this Alo Explorer Fanny Pack fit the bill. It has three zipped compartments: in the main one, we fit everything from a rolled-up tote bag to a water bottle. On the front pack, we kept our AirPods and our keys (although there’s room for more), and in the back zippered compartment we concealed our phones so that the bag could safely remain flush against our body. 

There’s a metal buckle on the strap which feels significant and sturdy, making it easy to snap on and off. The whole body of the bag has a smooth satin-like finish to it and puts up a strong fight against any distressors. Even after wearing it daily, it showed zero scratches or rips. That being said, it’s not weatherproof. If a sudden rain shower commences, make sure to hover over your bag to protect it.

Colors: 5 | Material: Nylon | Size: 4.75 (L) x 10.75 (H) x 4.75 (D) inches

InStyle / Elise Wang

Best Leather

Quince italian pebbled leather sling bag.

What We Love: Despite its sleek and slim appearance, it fits a surprisingly large amount of things. 

What We Don’t Love: The clasp on the strap is harder to handle.

If you thought you couldn’t wear fanny packs to a nice dinner, think again. This leather option from Quince offers a more elevated touch to belt bags, with its pebbled exterior and slim body. At first glance (and touch), it was evident how well the bag was made. The leather felt thick and soft to the touch, somehow managing to be durable without being stiff or rough. And even through nights prancing around, it has yet to reveal any scratches or markings. 

The bag is slim but long, so while it may look like it won’t fit a whole lot, it surprisingly accepted all we offered it without a fight. A cardholder, phone, AirPod case, keys. Lipsticks, gum, and a pills case all fit comfortably into the main compartment. There is also an internal leather card slot that could fit two cards at most and a zippered pocket on the back panel for any emergency cash. The strap is closed with a clasp, rather than a buckle, which added to its sleek appearance. Although we do have to say, it’s not as easy to hook on and off each time, so we mostly resorted to pulling it over our heads. 

Colors: 5 | Material: Leather, cotton | Size: 11 (L) x 5.75 (H) x 1.5 (D) inches

Best for the Waist

Silver and riley leather belt bag.

Silver and Riley

What We Love: The calfskin leather will only become better with time.

What We Don’t Love: It comes with complicated care instructions.

Few belt bags on this list are designed specifically to be worn at your waist — most fit around your hips or are intended to be worn as a sling — so if that’s how you intend on wearing it, we’d love to introduce you to the Silver and Riley bag. The belt on this one was sized to wrap around your waist, so it sits higher than your standard belt bag. It offers you the ability to wear it with different styles, like a dress, instead of just some jeans. Made with structured calf leather from Italy, the little pouch has a minimalist appeal, with only a single extra pocket in the interior, big enough to hold some cards or loose change. Otherwise, the sleek design feels very mature and is available in light brown and pink as well.

It does come with a few complicated care instructions, however. The brand recommends avoiding direct sunlight, rain, or heat. They also recommend keeping tissue paper in the interior when not in use, to maintain the shape and absorb any moisture. If you hope to maintain its pristine condition, take heed of these precautions.

Colors: 3 | Material: Calf skin leather | Size: 6 (L) x 5 (H) x 2.4 (D) inches

Best Designer

Bottega veneta cassette belt bag.

Bottega Veneta

What We Love: The criss cross pattern is easy to dress up or down. 

What We Don’t Love: It’s not very big, so you won’t be able to fit all your essentials in it.

The Bottega Veneta Cassette has taken the world by storm, so of course, we had to mention it here. The leather used by the label feels substantial, even more so than other designers. The simple criss-cross pattern can be incorporated into any outfit, be it sporty or classy. At 6.9 inches in length, it will fit less essentials than the Dagne Dover option, but it looks more elevated. And you can still fit most needs, like a phone, card holder, keys and some lipstick. But anything more might require you to fit it in your pants pockets or to leave home. 

Colors: 5 | Material: Lambskin leather | Size: 6.9 (L) x 3.7 (H) x 2 (D) inches

Best Minimalist

Banana republic leather belt bag.

Banana Republic

What We Love: Despite the lack of zippers, this all-leather belt bag remains securely shut at all times. 

What We Don’t Love: The 1-inch depth is a little too slim to fit a phone and a wallet side by side.

This belt bag truly looks and feels like it was handmade by an Italian craftsman in a remote city — it even smells of fresh leather when you unbox it at first. The beautiful and minimalist style comes without any metal detailings (except on the belt closure), magnets, or hidden pockets. It’s a very straightforward leather piece that you close by inserting the little front strap through the loop. Despite the lack of zippers or fasteners, we were pleasantly surprised to find it remaining closed the entire time. There are also enough belt loops to tie it snugly against the waist, which increases the number of ways one could style this bag. But the 1-inch depth was too slim to fit both a phone in its case and a wallet side by side. We had to swap some cards and coins into a cardholder to make it all fit. 

Colors: 2 | Material: Leather | Size: 6 (L) x 3.5 (H) x 1 (D) inches

Most Practical

Caraa sling bag.

What We Love: The faux leather almost looks like real leather. 

What We Don’t Love: The two side zippers on the front are just for decoration.

Offered in various sizes, colors, and textures, this leather bag (also available in vegan leather) works for pretty much all situations. It’s quite large, so it’s ideal for anyone who needs a little more room than many of these other stylish bags offer, like mothers or avid travelers who like to keep their hands free. We were able to stuff snacks (yes, snacks plural, as in you can fit granola bars, a pack of Cheez-Its, and more in here), a passport, a handkerchief, multiple beauty products, and of course, a wallet and a phone. We did find it a little odd, however, that the two zippers on the sides of the outer pocket don’t offer much space; the inside is only good enough for perhaps a few quarters, so it serves as more as a design element than anything else. 

Colors: 1 | Material: Leather, antique gold, nylon | Size: 10.5 (L) x 4.5 (H) x 3.6 (D) inches

Best Quilted

Mz wallace belt bag.

What We Love: The quilted details continue up the strap a little as well. 

What We Don’t Love: We wish the zipper detail wasn’t red.

We've previously featured many MZ Wallace quilted products; in general, the bags offer a consistent design and don't skimp on function (which is why the tote bag is great for work ). In the belt bag specifically, we loved that the quilting goes beyond just the bag, but into the belt a little as well. Function-wise, there are four compartments — a little zipped pocket in the front, and a main pocket that features another zip closure on one side and an open pocket on the other. While it might not be enough for an adventure on the mountain, it’s ideal for everyday needs and casual outings into town.

Colors: 7 | Material: Nylon, leather | Size: 8 (L) x 5 (H) x 2 (D) inches

• Material: Before you go ahead and purchase your belt bag, make sure you shop the right material for the right occasion. A leather bag might look fantastic with elevated outfits for a day in the city, but doesn’t weather great against athletic adventures. For such excursions, you want belt bags made of nylon or polyester, preferably with a water-repellent finish.
• Occasion: Do you need a belt bag for travel? Something to bring on your hike? The bag you choose should fit your needs accordingly. If you’re about to board a plane, the belt bag frees your hands to take care of the million stressful things around you. You’ll want a zippered section close to your body for your passport, ample amounts of space to store your ticket, and hold close to you some travel skincare like chapstick and moisturizer. Similarly, for stylist Ashleigh Ashton , a belt bag that has both ample amounts of pockets and still looks elevated is essential while she’s on her gigs. “For me the perfect appeal in a belt bag is comfort and functionality. Something basic or neutral in color so I can wear it with almost everything.”

How do you style a belt bag?

For her daily look at the gym, Parry likes to sling her belt bag across her body, and wear it over a matching workout set, but in less sporty scenarios, like to brunch or running errands, she uses a bag over a dress or long skirt. And while most belt bags look better with sneakers (leather or sporty) and some biker shorts, some could easily be dressed up in some heels. If the bag comes with a longer belt, you can wear it over a thick coat, sweater, and jeans in the winter as well.

Bianca Kratky is commerce writer covering fashion and beauty at InStyle . She tested a third of the listed belt bags here and sorted through dozens more insights provided by the testers and their real-life experiences to compile this list. She also spoke with Ashleigh Ashton, Katie Sturino, and Lauren Parry for their tips on styling the accessory.

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Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag Review: Affordable and Chic for Travel

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 2024

Recommended as our top belt bag for travel, see my thoughts on the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag and why it’s an essential fanny pack for keeping things together on a trip.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• What is the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag?
• How to wear the Everywhere Belt Bag
• Which sizes does the lululemon belt bag come in?
• Features of the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Is it unisex?
• How to buy the Everywhere Belt Bag
• Is the Everywhere Belt Bag worth it?
• Can you get it on discount or on sale?
• What is lululemon?
• Other lululemon travel products I like

In my extensive research of the best fanny packs for travel, I found that lululemon’s belt bag fanny pack is not only inexpensive, but it’s great quality and cute to wear.

In this Everywhere Belt Bag review, learn all about this lululemon waist pack and crossbody bag that everyone seems to have. Find out if it could be your newest little favorite for toting the day’s essentials and if it’s worth the price.

Read on, about the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag and make sure to peruse my photos to see how it looks when I use it.

What is the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag ?

The lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is lululemon’s answer to a versatile day bag worn close to the body that fits daily essentials, whether I’m heading to the supermarket or taking a road trip out to the mountains. Since getting mine, I have seen people all over the country using it and wearing it on a day-to-day basis.

I started wearing waist packs (first a vintage Eastpack one, and then a LeSportSac fanny ) in my early travel days, finding that having my passport, phone, wallet and keys positioned at my hips was comfortable and functional.

As belt bags became more popular in the last few years, there are now tons of them on the market from a variety of brands. You’ll find the lululemon belt bag in my list of the best travel fanny packs .

You may be surprised, like I am, at how “comparably” inexpensive the lululemon belt bag is. It’s made of perfectly quality materials (mesh and lining from 100% polyester and body from 100% nylon) and looks great with outfits in all seasons. It has two basic zipper compartments and an adjustable strap. The 2L version is priced only a little higher than the classic 1L version .

I find that I can wear it in an athletic format, or with travel clothes like my top-notch lululemon pocket leggings and a hoodie like my merino wool Aviator sweater .

How to wear the Everywhere Belt Bag

As someone with narrow shoulders who is also prone to getting a sore back, I have found that a crossbody belt bag is perfect for me. I own an assortment of belt bags, from the Oversized 4-liter Canvelle Fanny Pack to the sweet little Kibou mini belt bag .

As for the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag , it’s right in between at a happy medium volume, whether you get it in 1L or 2L. With the large 2L one I’m modeling in these photos, I find it to be spacious for my things, and it also looks appropriate on my petite 5-foot-two stature.

I wear it comfortably as a waist pack , and I find that the thick strap is very supportive. I also sport it as a crossbody belt bag , over either shoulder (but typically across my right shoulder so that I can reach in with my right hand).

I’ve worn it with the bag part itself across my front (to have an eye on my valuables), as well as across my back (maybe if I’m hiking and want the weight positioned there). You could also wear it across one shoulder (but I find this less comfortable).

Which sizes does the lululemon belt bag come in?

The Everywhere Belt Bag comes in two basic sizes, plus the smaller ripstop Mini.

Original 1L

The original 1-liter size is the perfect bag companion for walking around sightseeing or dashing through an airport after checking your bags. For me, it fits all my standard “belt bag” essentials.

The 2L size is double the size of the 1L, and still looks natural if you wear it at your waist as a hip pack. With the added volume capacity, I can fit a pack of tissues, travel-sized sunscreen, a granola bar and more. This is the one I’m modeling in my photos.

Mini (0.7L)

As a new addition, have you heard about the Everywhere Belt Bag Mini Ripstop ? At 0.7L, it’s the perfect cutie mini belt bag to have with you on all your travels. It fits small accessories like a phone, keys, lip balm, hand sanitizer and a slim wallet or set of cards.

2.5L Belt Bag

The City Adventure Belt Bag from lululemon is 2.5L. If you’re looking for even more volume, check out this one.

Other sizes

lululemon is constantly debuting (and also discontinuing!) all types of products. If you peruse the assortment of belt bags hard enough, and order the items from “Price: Low to High,” you can find lots of opportunities for a steep discount and a sale.

Features of the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

I like the smooth exterior and the thick waist belt of the Everywhere Belt Bag , but behold, there’s more to discuss! See the features of this waist bag here.

Exterior zipper pocket & backside zipper pocket

The front-facing main cavity has a zipper that goes three-quarters of the way around, for lots of access to your things inside. The backside of the belt bag (the side that goes against my body) has a smaller flat zipper pocket that’s good for holding your phone or some cards. It’s nice for avoiding pickpockets while traveling .

You can see that inside, I’m using my flat Canvelle wallet that clips into any key ring clip.

Interior organizer pockets

The interior mesh pockets are where I wind up keeping things like receipts, napkins (anyone else?) and my lip balm.

Once you figure out your ideal strap adjustment for wearing as a crossbody belt bag or a waist pack at your hip, tuck the excess strap into the holding loop.

Water-repellent fabric

The polyester and nylon build is ideal for repelling water and moisture: helpful if you’re on a trip in a wet climate.

Is it unisex?

Yes, this lululemon belt bag is unisex. In fact, many lululemon accessories are! Having a unisex travel belt bag like this one means being able to share it with a travel buddy, partner, spouse or even your kid, regardless of gender identity.

How to buy the Everywhere Belt Bag

To get the lululemon belt bag, pick one up on the lululemon website . By purchasing directly through lululemon, you’ll get free shipping and free returns.

After doing some sleuthing, I found out that you could also buy it on Amazon , but you’ll notice that it’s priced a few dollars higher, and getting it from the lululemon website will get you free shipping anyway.

Is the Everywhere Belt Bag worth it?

If you want to sport the lululemon brand and have a stylish belt bag for trips out of the house (or out of the country!), the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is priced at a mid-range level. You’ll find that there are belt bags that run cheaper, but lots of belt bags that are more expensive.

I think that at least for the 1L model , the price can’t be beat, especially because this one is likely to stay in style for many years.

Can you get it on discount or on sale?

I’ve found that lululemon is pretty good about having sales, especially on colors that are being discontinued, or are limited edition, or seasonal. If you don’t see a color you like (but there are so many!), then check back in a few weeks to see if any are on sale.

If you’re looking for a secret way to get a lululemon belt bag on sale, I recommend checking out the belt bags landing page ; you may see some seasonal color choices that are marked down with discounts as much as 50% off.

What is lululemon ?

lululemon is an athleisure and lifestyle brand that makes everything from best-selling leggings (some of the best travel pants for women ), and athletic-wear to bags, yoga mats, duffel bags, backpacks, totes and hats. I could spend hours looking at all the products on the lululemon website .

I first heard about lululemon ages ago, mostly in regard to yoga wear. Since then, the company has exploded into selling all the apparel anyone could desire, to cool and minimalist accessories and shoes .

While I find that a lot of the products are expensive to begin with, I’ll detail later on how you can find the Everywhere Belt Bag at a discount or on sale, and you won’t even need a code.

As I’ll detail below, I’ve tried an assortment of lululemon products that I really like for daytime wear and traveling. For accessories, I’m a fan of the classic baseball cap and my handy Back to Life sport water bottle .

Other lululemon travel products I like

I have a select few favorite products from lululemon that I wear consistently, and they all work out great for when I’m on the go, or on vacation.

Specifically, I like the Love Crew Tee (listed in the best travel shirts for women ), the Align pocket leggings and the 24oz Back to Life water bottle .

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The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag Was the Perfect Accessory for My Two-Week Hawaiian Honeymoon

By Lauren Dana Ellman

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

I used to think the perfect travel bag didn’t exist—that is, until I stumbled upon the now-viral Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag in May. At that time, my long-awaited Hawaiian honeymoon was about three weeks away, and I had spent months trying to track down a compact, hands-free crossbody bag. I needed something that could come with me on mornings spent hiking and snorkeling followed by leisurely afternoons sunbathing, shopping, and sipping Mai Tais.

At the time, the Lululemon belt bag came in two sizes: standard and extended. I originally wanted the extended length in black; however, due to availability, I ordered the purple extended bag and the more versatile black bag in the regular length. The strap lengths only varied by a few inches, and I figured I could always return the regular variety if it was too short.

I wasn’t prepared to love them as much as I did—in fact, I ended up shoving both options into my suitcase. When I slung either bag across my chest, I was immediately impressed by how light it felt. (So much so that I had a moment in Maui of thinking it was lost.) What’s more, despite its compact size, each held a full day’s essentials: an SPF stick, a bottle of sunscreen , AirPods, my iPhone, credit cards, cash, my ID, a lip balm, and, to top it all off, a disposable camera. Even after shoving all of these items into the belt bag, I didn’t feel weighed down like I had in the past (read: no shoulder pain!). While I mostly wore mine as a sling bag , you can also wear it around your waist, fanny pack style.

The clever design is another huge pro: Instead of one main compartment, the Everywhere bag contains several zippered and mesh pockets, which helped me stay organized while on the go. The secure front pocket offers easy access to my most-grabbed items, like my license and AirPods. 

As someone prone to spilling and staining my garments, I also appreciate the Everywhere bag’s water-repellent polyester fabric, which is incredibly easy to clean. A wet napkin is truly all it takes to eliminate ketchup stains, coffee spillage, sunscreen residue, and good ol’ dirt and debris that can collect after a long hike.

Lululemon has since phased out the original bag in favor of the longer strap design, which is now simply called the Everywhere Belt Bag . And while the bag’s popularity means it’s been in and out of stock for the last few months, the latest drop includes a slew of colorful new spring hues, from mint to electric lemon and solar orange, as well as a second size option, the 2L Everywhere Belt Bag . If you see a style you like, be sure to move fast—it might not be around for long, and if you can get your hands on one, I'm confident it’ll become your new favorite bag.

Shop more travel-friendly Lululemon bags:

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This Surprisingly Spacious On-Sale Belt Bag Kept Me Calm, Cool, and Hands-Free Through a Recent Flight

It has space for all of your essentials—and then some.

Real Simple / Jaclyn Mastropasqua

At this point, I've probably flown at least 50 plus times in my life, yet I never feel prepared. The moment I step into the airport, my mind seems blank, and the anxiety of second-guessing my entire packing strategy kicks into gear. Nothing flusters me more than hauling around a twenty-pound, oversized tote of necessities—a majority of which I usually don't even use. So while planning a trip back home, my one nonnegotiables was a travel-friendly belt bag that would work beyond the airport, and my search led me to Cincha Travel .

The brand specializes in travel belts that secure your luggage and personal belongings together for a seamless airport experience. Those belts expanded into the Cincha Travel Belt Bag , a small yet surprisingly roomy bag that measures at 7.5 inches wide, 5.25 inches tall, and 2.25 inches deep. While that might not sound like much, I had room to comfortably fit all of my essentials, including my passport (with a bulky, glittery case), wallet, house keys, phone, charger, lightning cable, and even a little snack.

To buy: $68 (was $75); cinchatravel.com .

The bag is available in five vibrant colorways, and I got mine in "leo," a lovely, neutral brown with a chic leopard print strap that complements almost every outfit—yes, even my cozy, baggy sweats. I felt like an "It girl" with the bag casually slung over my chest, and when I didn't feel like carrying it, the two-in-one 49-inch adjustable sling easily wrapped around my carry-on tote and luggage to keep everything together. You can also use the discreet elastic trolley pass-through on the back of the bag.

The stylish and functional belt bag is made with water-resistant, upcycled nylon that feels silky smooth and features a zip closure and an outer zip pocket. It's also designed with a convenient slip pocket for stowing boarding passes, as well as two smaller interior pockets and a practical top handle. I've even been using it as my everyday handbag since it's got room for everything I need and allows me to carry it all hands-free.

While the bag usually costs $75, the brand is celebrating its recent appearance on Shark Tank with a 10 percent off sitewide sale through Friday, April 28, bringing it down to $68.

My only regret is not investing in the Travel Belt Bag sooner. I see myself using this not only for future trips but also for fun summer events and outings. Snag it while it’s on sale, and it might just become your new favorite bag.

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Home » Gear » travel money belt

10 Best Travel Money Belts • Proven Backpacker Safety for 2024

While the world is mostly safe to travel, it’s an unfortunate fact that thousands of travelers are robbed every year. As backpackers, we understand the importance of keeping our valuables secure while exploring the far reaches of the globe. From bustling city streets to markets that overwhelm the senses, you want to be right there in the moment rather than worrying about your wallet!

We also want you to be as prepared as possible and having a reliable travel money belt can provide you with the peace of mind and freedom to roam without worry. In all of my world travels, I’ve only found one proven way to protect your hard-earned money. You have to conceal it and conceal it well. This is exactly why I wrote this article about the best travel money belts.

Investing in a quality money belt is an easy, inexpensive solution to protecting your cash while traveling. In a nutshell? It’s well worth the $10-20 investment.  With our expert insights and recommendations, you’ll be equipped to make an informed choice and travel with confidence, knowing that your belongings are always safe and close at hand.

Let’s look at the best money belt for travel  in 2024, so you can travel stress-free.

Quick Answer: What are the Best Money Belts for Travel?

• Wandrd Tech Bag – Best Tech Bag

Peak Travel Money Belt  – Best Money Belt for Europe

• Stashbanz Running Belt  – Best Travel/Running Waist Belt
• Alpha Keeper Money Belt – Best Money Belt for Electronic Security
• LeatherBoss Men’s Money Belt – Best Men’s Money Belt

Do I need a money belt for travel?

Buying a money belt may feel like overkill to a lot of people; others may find them redundant as you’re painting an even larger target on your back.

These are both fair points – pickpocketing isn’t guaranteed and carrying around a bulky money purse is pretty clear advertising anyway. Even the really subtle money belts are disarmed when you open them to access your cash. At this point, everyone knows it’s a belt and it’s kinda ridiculous the sight of someone rummaging through their own waist strap anyways.

Here’s the thing – you’re still at risk. Sure, 9 times out of 10 you may get away walking through a seedy street, but are you ready to cope with that 1 time?

Having you’re money stolen can really screw a lot of plans up. If your credit cards were in that wallet as well, dealing with the company can be a huge pain as well.

Having a money belt is more of an insurance than an actual deterrent. Hiding a bit of cash while traveling is a great way to relieve yourself in case the shit hits the fan. If the worst should come to be and your bag or wallet is stolen, you’ll be in better shape because you had an emergency stash.

Money belts are not huge investments either – most are about the same price as a t-shirt. It’s not like you have to take out a huge policy.

So do you need a money belt? Not necessarily. Are they convenient to use though? Yes – money belts will save you in a pinch. Like condoms, it’s better to have one and not need it than need one and not have it.

So with that being said, let’s take a look at the best money belts on the market real quick.

A  Quick Review of the Money Belt Selections

What are the best travel money belts, what to look for when buying a money belt for traveling, staying safe while traveling, how we tested this gear, faq about the best travel money belt.

Peak Travel Money Belt

• RFID Blocking > Yes
• Secret Stash Pocket? > No
• Best Use? > Backpacking Europe, general travel.

Wandrd Tech Bag

• RFID Blocking? > No
• Best Use? > Urban

Stashbandz Running Belt

• RFID Blocking? > Yes
• Best Use? > Running, urban jogging, travel.

Alpha Keeper Money Belt

• Best Use? > RFID protection, general travel.

LeatherBoss Men’s Leather Money Belt

• Secret Stash Pocket? > Yes
• Best Use? > backpacking

Let’s find out! We’ve got plenty of different options that will help you protect your money while travelling .

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Wandrd Tech Bag – Best All Round Tech Bag

Quick Answer : Price: $34.27

The Wandrd Tech Bag offers the perfect solution to your tech organizational needs. Daily carry, short trips, are all covered with this money belt.

Each bag size has been thoughtfully designed with unique organizational elements and built out of the highest quality materials, so your gear is easy to access and protected.

Each bag has a unique webbing loop and clip system on its back panel so that you can connect any two together to create a mega bag.

You can also use this system (in the medium and large) to attach the Tech Bag to the Accessory Strap loops on the outside of the PRVKE or DUO. Wandrd also offer an elegant Carry Strap that attaches to any size bag making it a great daily carry. 

Things to note:

• Non- RFID blocking

Our team are big fans of Wandrd Gear and this tech bag lives up to the brand quality. Though this bag isn’t technically a waterproof money belt they felt it offered the best level of protection for their gear with its resistant tarp material. They love how much this little bag can fit in and the level of organisation the internal design gives them.

Quick Answer:  Price: $16.97

Why Europe? Well, because you need a bit of style in addition to theft-protection whilst backpacking in Europe. Duh!

The Peak money belt is another “not a belt” belt, fitting just around your belly under the shirt. The design is sleek, practical, and is very comfortable to wear.

What sets the Peak travel belt apart from the rest is its insurance policy. If some James Bondesque pickpocket somehow manages to get to your stuff, the company will pay you $250 (which isn’t all that much in my opinion). That said, no other security belt company I know of offers insurance, so I guess it is better than nothing.

The Peak money belt is equipped with an RFID reflector to combat electronic pickpockets.

Also, the belt is made from  210D water-resistant (not waterproof) nylon so if you get caught in a heavy rain, no need to panic.

• Not actually a belt
• Not as cheap as the Ray Tix travel belt

Our team really liked the low and flat profile of this belt. They felt it offered the perfect compromise between the mega small traditional style belts and the larger money belts that are more like small bags. It easily sits flat with a passport and some money whilst remaining breathable and water resistant making it really comfortable to wear underneath clothing all day.

Stashbanz Running Belt – Best Travel/Running Waist Belt

Quick Answer:  Price: $23.99

Are you a compulsive jogger or trail runner even when you are traveling? Do you just want a secure stash pocket to wear when you are running at home?  Stashbanz has come up with the ultimate running belt to meet your needs.

This travel belt is made from a moisture-wicking quick-dry spandex material and includes four secure pockets and a new zippered concealed pocket.

You can really store a ton of stuff in this thing. If you are the kind of traveler that always seems to have a loaded wallet, a passport, phone, earbuds, hostel keys, debit cards, lip balm crammed into your pockets, this money belt might be the answer to your prayers.

The Stashbanz running belt comes in five different sizes and fits easily under or over your clothes depending on your activity.

Made in the USA.

• Not adjustable
• Slightly overkill (too many pockets) if you are just wanting to hide your money

Our team were impressed by the versatility of this belt and liked that it was useful for more than just keeping their gear safe. In fact, they used it for jogging and bike rides on their travels too. They also liked that is was super low profile and light and rolled or folded really small.

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Alpha Keeper Money Belt  – Best Money Belt for Electronic Security

Quick Answer:  Price: $16.98

Traveling with heaps of credit cards? Have you been burned already by an electronic thief? Do you want to take your electronic security a step further? Alpha Keeper will meet all of your needs and then some.

The Alpha Keeper money belt is made with three layers of 100% RFID blocking material to ensure your valuables stay safe. It is made out of high-quality water-resistant 210D rip-stop nylon toughness and durability on the road.

If those three layers of RFID protection are not enough, the Alpha Keeper money belt also comes with seven protective sleeves, so you can add additional barriers to things like your phone, wallet, and passport even when you are not traveling (for example sleeping at the hostel).

I have certainly never heard of anyone being electronically robbed at a hostel, so please don’t be paranoid. That said, having more protection is never a bad thing.

Long story short, there is no way in hell that an electronic thief will get to your valuable items when you are using an Alpha Keeper money belt.

• Reportedly not as comfortable as other travel money belts.

Our team liked that this belt easily lay flat on their stomach or back whilst still offering a good amount of storage. The two-pocket design was great for keeping passports and money organised and they even found they could easily fit 2-3 passports if needed. So it’s great for families too.

LeatherBoss Men’s Leather Money Belt – Best Men’s Money Belt

Quick Answer: Price: $10.99

Our pick for the best leather money belt, the LeatherBoss men’s leather money belt is another great option for backpackers looking for a practical piece of gear that also hides your money.

This leather money belt does not feature all of the stash pockets and features some of the other “belts” do, but that is what makes it great. No one can tell that you are indeed wearing a belt containing hidden money.

It looks just like any old belt you would wear any day of the week.

The LeatherBoss money belt certainly wins big on style points. It is attractive, simple, and an all-around great way to stash your cash on the road. This is one of the best men’s money belts on the market.

• Leather material not conducive to getting wet, hiking or other outdoor adventure sports.

Our team loved this leather money belt and in particular just how lightweight, low key and inconspicuous it is. Literally, no one will suspect that you’ve got cash hidden in this thing and they felt it still functioned just as well as a “normal” belt. The only issue is that they felt it was a bit more fiddly that the others to access your stash and obviously it holds a lot less.

Alpine Rivers Travel Money Belt

Quick Answer:  Price: $16.99

The Alpine Rivers travel belt is also very focused on electronic data protection. The belt is made from 100% RFID blocking material & Water-resistant 210D rip-stop Nylon.

The sleek, compact design allows for plenty of space and easy access to your most sensitive possessions and cash.

Features include two front zippered pockets and a large concealed rear pocket. The inner pockets allow convenient organization of passports, tickets, credit cards and cash.

Like the Alpha Keeper money belt, the Alpine Rivers model also comes with RFID blocking sleeves to add an extra layer of protection to your credit cards and phone.

The Alpine Rivers money belt is well made, durable, and should be able to handle all of the years of wear and tear that backpacking gear faces.

• Slightly larger than other travel belts.
• Quite bulky under tight-fitting clothing.
• Received a few poor reviews involving cases of theft out of the money belt. Ouch.

Our team loved the size of this money belt when it came to carrying more gear. Some of the team wanted to be able to carry a phone and other items like headphones alongside their cash and passports and this belt made that easy and comfortable without taking up a massive amount of room. It did show a little more than other as might be expected, but if you wear a baggy shirt or hoody over the top it still covers well.

CyberDyer Travel Running Belt

Quick Answer:  Price: $9.99

Similar to the Stashbanz running belt (what the hell is it with these running belts and the use of the letter “z”??), the CyberDyer running belt is designed specifically for active people.

I almost like the CyberDyer more than the Stashbanz running belt because there is only one main pocket compartment to deal with.

The belt is made from a high-quality blend of Spandex material that is soft as silk and it stretches well. This is the perfect belt for the people who are running in big cities either at home or whilst traveling.

The Amazon reviews have mostly raved about fit and comfort, so you can expect a comfortable running belt that won’t bother you when you are out jogging.

The CyberDyer running belt comes in a wide range of sizes so you can be sure to find the perfect fit.

• Reportedly can slip and ride up
• Edges have been known to lose their shape and curl over time
• Can feel bulky

The CyberDyer might sound like a cyborg washing machine, but our team felt it was a really simple and comfortable solution to keeping their gear safe. The material sits on the skin well without rubbing and allows it to fit virtually anyone perfectly. They felt it was a bit basic with only the one pocket, but for keeping bare essentials safe whilst travelling or running it was ideal for those not wanting all the bells and whistles.

Flipbelt Money Travel Belt

Quick Answer:  Price: $28.99

The Flipbelt travel belt is another unit designed for active people. The belt is made from spandex/lycra material. A big plus with the design is that there are no buckles to rub against your body, thus eliminating chaffing.

There are many knock-off imitators on the internet who have copied the Flipbelt construction. Don’t be fooled. Flipbelt is still making the best money belt of its type.

Features include multi-access pocket openings found throughout the belt for easy access and organization.

The money belt is machine washable, which is good news if you plan on exercising while wearing it.

• Sizing can be different depending on the country that it is manufactured in.
• Pocket a little small for storing iPhone 6 or larger.

Our team loved how this belt kinda skirted between being a belt and a proper travel pouch. They loved the soft material that fit them well without being bulky and too large. Rather than layering pockets on top of each other, this belt spreads them around to keep everything flatter and easier to conceal.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

The idea of a money belt is simple. They are designed to keep your money safe by concealing it all together in a zippered pocket that stays fixed close to your body at all times. Pickpockets cannot reach your money if it is hiding on the underside of your belt or shirt!

Security belts have been popular for a long time. Styles, performance, and best utility vary across the board. There are MANY travel money belts on the market. So, how does one find the right belt to fit your own individual taste?

When you begin the process of looking to buy a money belt, you’ll need to first ask yourself some questions.

What are you looking for the security belt to do? Are you after a belt that will hide your money only? Do you want a money belt that can also hold your phone, credit card, and passport? Will you be active while you are wearing your travel belt?

Each belt has different features including pockets, zippers, buckles, clips, and bands. You’ll need to ask yourself “what style works for me?” when you are thinking about buying a money belt.

Personally, I like a simple money belt like the one pictured above. For hiding cash, you simply don’t need a ton of pockets, but every backpacker has different needs so the choice is up to you.

You want a money belt that is comfortable. Very comfortable.

You will likely be wearing your travel belt most days whilst out on a backpacking trip. Essentially, it will become an extension of your own body.

You want to be damn sure that it fits you perfectly and does not produce any rubbing or chaffing that will irritate your skin and disrupt your day.

Alternatively, if you don’t like the idea of wearing a belt at all, there are scarves with hidden pockets as well.

Intended Use and Activity

If you are after a running belt or find yourself outdoors, you will want to consider a money belt specifically designed for that purpose. Running belts are great for people who are jogging all the time. They keep your stuff organized, safe, and in theory, do not move when your body is in motion.

Other designs include waterproof or water-resistant fabric. If you do a lot of camping or hiking, you might want to consider a water resistant model, though you probably have camping dry bags that can protect you from rain anyway.

Also, if you hike or run a lot, you should probably stay away from a leather travel belt.

RFID-Blocking

What is RFID? RFID ( radio frequency identification) is the use of radio waves to read and capture information stored on a tag attached to an object; for example your credit card.

In this day and age, you have to worry about that kind of thing. Now to be clear I have never had an issue with an electronic thief, but that is not to say that it doesn’t happen. Electronic theft in public places is certainly on the rise. You’ll have to decide whether or not having an RFID-blocking money travel belt is important to you.

Most of the travel money belts on my list are made from tough nylon, though a few of the running belts are made out of a Spandex blend. Typically, the nylon travel belts will last you longer and hold less of a smell over time.

The good news is you can throw just about any travel belt (that isn’t leather) in the washing machine (at a low spin cycle). This allows you to wash off sweat, dirt, and other unpleasantness that you don’t want to fix to your body day after day.

On any given backpacking adventure there will be potential thieves lurking with the hopes of stealing your money. I say this to not induce a state of travel paranoia, but out of the need for every backpacker to be aware of the risks of traveling. It is common sense really.

Many budget backpacker destinations are so cheap to travel in because the local economy is in shambles. People are out of work and when people have no employment, they turn to crime. They target foreigners who do have the plentiful cash that they themselves do not.

I can’t say that I blame them.

Us backpackers are extremely lucky and fortunate to be able to afford to go backpacking at all. That said, in order to keep traveling long term you simply can not have your money taken from you. For some travelers, myself included, losing a big wad of cash in a single moment could end up completely derailing an otherwise awesome backpacking trip.

Having a security belt and putting it to use is a great preventative measure for keeping your cash away from potential pickpockets. There are however other steps you can take to ensure that your cash stays in your pocket (or in your belt).

Top Tips For Guarding Your Cash While Backpacking

• If you plan on going out for a night on the town, take only the cash you need.
• Finding yourself drunk, alone, and loaded with cash in a foreign city is a recipe for disaster anywhere in the world. Don’t do find yourself in that position!
• Use extra caution in crowded public spaces. Train stations, public markets, bus depots, major tourist attractions… all very prone to pickpocket activity.
• Be sneaky when you take money out of your money travel belt. Plan a little in advance if you know you will need a bit of cash for any given situation. Don’t go lifting up your shirt in a crowd of people, thus exposing exactly where your valuables are hidden.
• Don’t overload your money belt. If it is making you look pregnant (assuming you’re not pregnant) through your shirt, you have taken away the hidden aspect of your security belt.
• Travel with plenty of cash , but generally, avoid traveling with thousands upon thousands of dollars on your person. You never know what could happen and you don’t want to put all of your eggs in one basket as they say.
• Don’t fall for pickpocket tricks and distractions. For example, someone might squirt paint or ketchup on you and make it seem as if it was an accident. IT WAS NOT AN ACCIDENT! They are trying to scam you, so get the hell out of there, ketchup and all.
• Don’t be overly paranoid. The majority of people in the world are fine people. Keep your wits about you at all times, but don’t think that every single person is out for your money, because they are not.

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out travel gear. Having said that, The Broke Backpacker team has gotten pretty close given our levels of experience in this area. So, we’re a solid bet when it comes to sound advice when it comes to picking a money belt for travel.

Whenever we test a piece of gear, a brave and bold member of the team takes it out and puts it through its paces, Royal Marine style! We also make sure to pay attention to the build quality of each item, considering things like how well-stitched it is and the materials used. We also test out how heavy the gear is and how well it fits its primary purpose. So when it came to finding the best money belts for travel, it’s keeping your money safe that seals the deal!

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced – for example, expensive items that perform not so great will lose points. On the other hand, budget items may be given more leeway and minor failures treated less harshly.

Still have some questions about the best moneybelt? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Why do I need a money belt?

Simple – to keep your money hidden and safe. No one suspects a secret wallet in your belt, so in the unlikely case of getting robbed, at least your cash and cards will be safe.

How much cash can I hide in a money belt?

That depends on the brand, but money belts usually fit a few emergency cash notes. If you opt for a larger belt, you can even carry your cards and a few coins.

Which is the best money belt?

The Wandrd Tech Bag is one of the best on the market. It holds cash, passports, and anything else you can imagine.

Can you wear a money belt through security?

Yes, you can, but only if there is no metal on your money belt. Any metal will set off the detector.

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Final Thoughts on the Best Money Belts for Traveling

Well amigos, you have made it to the end of my money belt review article!

Traveling is not without its dangers, but most of the time the power to take preventative steps lies in your hands. Picking up a quality travel belt is the best way to protect your money, period.

You are now in full possession of the top travel belts on the market. The choice of which one to pick is now up to you!

I hope you found my list of money belts super valuable and informative. It is my wish that you stay safe while traveling and have the time of your life on every single journey you embark on.

A good time starts and ends with a hassle-free/theft-free trip. So, do yourself a favor and prevent any future pickpockets from scoring your hard-earned money…

Pick up a security belt and hit the road with confidence. If you’re after something with a bit more size than a travel belt, so you can organise your documents, why not check out the best travel purses , there’s even a Pacsafe one to protect you from slash and grabs.

Aiden Freeborn

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You’re definitely right that it’s important to make sure that the bag is authentic and the website isn’t a scam

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

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I'm a shopping editor, and I tested out belt bags from Lululemon and Aritzia — here's my honest review (plus which one is better)

Both the lululemon everywhere belt bag and aritizia's on-the-way bag are under $50, but some key differences put one on top..

I can shamelessly say that ever since I started using a belt bag , I can't seem to reach for anything else (unless an event calls for it, of course). The convenience of just slinging it across my chest is unmatched — hands-free, baby! Now, a fun fact about me: When I love something, I tend to buy different variations of it. It's no shock that I own the viral Everywhere Belt Bag from Lululemon , but when I saw that Aritzia had a similar On-The-Way Bag , I had to give it a shot, naturally. Curious to see which one I prefer? Keep scrolling to dive into my honest review.

Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

100% nylon water-repellent bag.

Also available in mini and large sizes.

• Long enough strap
• Durable material
• Smooth zipper
• Comfortable around waist and slung across chest
• Many colour options
• Interior mesh pockets
• Not super spacious
• Can get bulky

Details: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag review, pros and cons

The Everywhere Belt Bag has been super popular for a couple of years now after going viral on social media. IMO, it's what brought back the "fanny pack."

The bag's dimensions are 7.5" x 2" x 5", with a one-litre volume. It can hold everything you need and perhaps a little bit more.

I find it fits just enough for every day, but when I'm going on a day trip, I need a tad more space — which is when the large version comes in handy.

It has one zippered exterior pocket, which I appreciate for keeping my essentials separated — but I do wish there was a zippered interior pocket, too.

The strap (41.7 inches) is perfect for wearing across my chest or across my waist; I've personally never had an issue with it. However, there's also an extended strap version for those who wish to have more length.

What others are saying

According to other Lululemon shoppers, this bag is "handy for everyday use."

"I like everything about this bag!" said one reviewer, adding that they "appreciate the extra compartment on the back."

Another person said they use it for all kinds of occasions, stating it's "super adjustable" and "worth every penny."

One customer pointed out that it's "especially useful on travel days" and that it "fits passports easily."

Someone said that "it's lightweight and has plenty of space!" They also stated that "it can stain[,] but nothing a good wash can't fix!" So, keep that in mind when purchasing lighter colours.

There are a couple of reviews that reported inaccurate colours compared to photos, and some people also noted a "faulty zipper" that seems to get stuck.

TnAction On-The-Way Exposed Bag

Water-repellent nylon multi-way bag.

Also available in mini and bigger sizes and a hidden zip style.

• Cute colour
• Strap is stiff
• Stiff fabric
• Not a fan of the obvious branding

Details: TnAction On-The-Way Exposed Bag review, pros and cons

Similar to the Lululemon version, this TNA multi-way bag can be worn around the waist or across the body. It has similar features, too, including a zippered exterior pocket, interior mesh pockets and a speed clip with an adjustable strap. It's also made of a water-repellent nylon fabric.

The bag's dimensions are 7.5" x x 1 15/16" x 5 1/8", which is comparable to the Lulu version. However, I noticed the material feels very stiff, which makes it difficult to fit everything I need without the bag starting to look bulky.

Another noteworthy mention is that the strap (44.9 inches) is kind of stiff and thick, making it harder to adjust — but that could change over time with consistent use. It also feels shorter than the dimensions state.

I do love the colour options for this bag and the exposed zipper detail, but I don't love the TNA symbol on both the speed clip and the front of the bag.

One Aritzia reviewer said they "love this bag" and claimed it's "super high-quality!"

Another person stated it's the "perfect size" for them, adding that it fits everything they need for the day.

On the other hand, a third shopper said it's "way too small" and that the band doesn't "expand as far" as they'd prefer.

One person echoed that it's "small" and complained that the strap hurts their shoulder, which is something to keep in mind.

The final verdict

So, which one do I prefer? I won't lie; I tend to reach for my Lululemon belt bag more often — which I have in multiple colours. It fits slightly more, and I find my items lay more comfortably inside of it. Although they're both made of nylon fabric, I notice that Lululemon's is a bit more malleable, whereas the TNA one is a tad stiff.

However, they're both incredibly similar in size, style and function, so I can confidently recommend either. When it comes down to it, the colour and brand might be your only deciding factor. And to that, I say, do you!

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @ YahooStyleCA ! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram .

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The 11 Best Travel Money Belts of 2024

Keep your most important possessions from wandering off

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Traveling is one of life’s most rewarding experiences, but carrying valuables, such as cash and passports, can be stressful. Crowded tourist spots are inevitably prone to pickpockets , and using a conventional wallet or purse makes you a target. A money belt is, therefore, an essential travel accessory, and these days they’re less intrusive, more stylish, and more comfortable than ever.

Choices vary from fashion-forward fanny packs for wearing on top of your clothes to slimline belts that are undetectable when worn beneath them. In our selection of the best travel money belts on the market, look for RFID protection, clever compartments, moisture-wicking backing, and durable, double-stitched materials.

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, venture 4th travel money belt.

Inconspicuous under normal layers

Internal division of space

Sturdy construction

On the pricier end

Some reviews mention the strap being too thin

If you’re looking for a traditional-style money belt with a mid-range price tag and thousands of positive user reviews, this belt from Venture 4th fits the bill nicely. It features a flexible, slimline profile that lets you wear it discreetly beneath your clothes. A moisture-wicking, breathable mesh backing prevents sweat buildup, even in warm weather. The exterior features water-resistant ripstop nylon with durable double-stitched seams. 

Use the zippered mesh compartments to organize your valuables. The ideally sized pockets carry cash, credit cards, tickets, and a passport. Although adding your phone may make the belt bulky, most smartphone models should fit. The belt features an RFID-blocking lining to protect your data and an adjustable, elasticated belt that fits waists up to 56 inches. It comes in 10 versatile colors, from black to turquoise.

Dimensions: 11 x 5.5 inches | Materials: 210-denier ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Travel flame travel money belt.

Clever interior layout

Nice attention to detail

Generous warranty

Not fully waterproof

Limited color choices

The Travel Flame money belt is another excellent choice designed along similar lines. Its slim profile contours to individual body shapes for maximum comfort, with many reviewers praising that it doesn’t shift or pinch even when sitting for long periods (on a plane, for example). Made of water-resistant ripstop nylon, it has a breathable mesh back and an adjustable, elasticated strap for waists up to 56 inches. 

Built-in RFID-blocking protection is another major perk. There are three separate compartments, one with internal pockets to aid the easy organization of your credit and loyalty cards. You should be able to fit your smartphone and several passports as well. The belt features durable YKK zippers and a carabiner clip for your keys or USB. It comes in four neutral colors: black, beige, brown, and gray. A lifetime guarantee protects your purchase. 

Dimensions: 11.3 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Best Budget

Molarun travel money belt.

Hidden back pocket

Minimalist and functional

Handles hot and humid conditions well

The strap buckle could be sturdier

Not the best choice for plus-size travelers

Coming in at just over $10, it’s difficult to beat the Molarun travel money belt on price. And with plenty of positive user reviews, it’s a reliable choice for those who want a simple but effective product for their next vacation. Made of water-resistant ripstop nylon with double-stitched seams and good-quality zippers, it features breathable mesh backing, so you can wear it comfortably against your skin without sweating. 

There are two spacious zippered compartments on the front, the larger with two internal mesh compartments. On the back, there’s a concealed compartment for your most precious belongings. According to reviewers, it fits passports and smartphones, although not necessarily together (depending on your smartphone model). The belt has built-in RFID protection and an elasticated strap that fits waists up to 46 inches. Some find the buckle a little flimsy.

Dimensions: 9 x 6 inches | Materials: 210-denier ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Best Compact

Anj money belt.

One of the best incognito options

Works for athletic pursuits

Compatible with corded headphones

No RFID protection

If lightness and an undetectable under-the-clothes profile are your top priorities, look no further than this super-slim money belt from ANJ Outdoors. At 0.04 inches in thickness and weighing in at just 2 ounces, the soft Lycra belt is unbelievably thin—so much so that it’s easy to forget you’re wearing it. One reviewer talks about wearing it under her swimsuit; another loves it because it gives her waist a cinched look rather than adding bulk like most belts. 

Despite its slimness, the belt features a roomy 7.5 by 4.5-inch pocket with two compartments for stashing everything from money to phones and passports. It even has a hole for your headphones, doubling as a handy workout belt. A water-resistant lining prevents sweat from seeping through and damaging the contents, while reflective strips add an extra protective element. The adjustable strap fits waists from 24 to 42 inches.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 4.5 inch pocket | Materials: Polyester, spandex | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Comfort

Eagle creek money belt.

Smooth, luxurious fabric

Low maintenance

Pricier than most alternatives

For those with a bigger budget, Eagle Creek’s silk undercover money belt is well worth the extra cost. Made of soft, breathable natural silk, it feels incredible against the skin—so much so that many reviewers say they regularly sleep with theirs on. No crinkling, rubbing, or itching—and a moisture-resistant satin lining for keeping sweat to a minimum, even in 100 percent humidity. If it does need it, the belt is easy to wash and hang dry. 

It features two zippered pockets that are big enough for cash, credit cards, passports, and most smartphones. The soft elastic waistband is easily adjustable and stores neatly in a dedicated slip pocket on the back of the belt when not in use, making it also useful as an organizer for your travel purse . Available in smart black or dusky rose, the money belt is covered by Eagle Creek’s No Matter What lifetime guarantee.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Silk | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Ladies’ Style

Cxwmzy fanny pack.

Chic hues and prints

Nice accents

Extra packing space

Not designed to be concealed

Weighs more than most options on this list

The CXWMZY fanny pack comes in a choice of colors and floral patterns that will likely make it popular with fashion-forward wearers. The chunky zippers are gold-colored for added style points. Unlike most of the other money belts on this list, this one goes on top of your clothes, with a bulkier profile and two extra-large zippered compartments for cosmetics, sunglasses, car keys, and cash. 

There’s an additional concealed compartment on the back of the belt for your valuables, and the elasticated waist belt adjusts to fit all waist sizes from 24 to 55 inches. The belt is made from 100 percent polyester with reinforced stitching along the seams, guaranteeing a quality product that’s as reliable as it is attractive. The only downside (for some) is that it’s a heavier option, weighing in at 8.5 ounces.

Dimensions: 9.84 x 6.1 inches | Materials: 75-denier polyester | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Men's Style

Yoder leather company hidden money pocket travel leather belt.

Epitome of hiding in plain sight

Generous, albeit narrow, storage

High-quality materials and construction

Not suitable for larger items

Among the most expensive picks

This alternative option from the Yoder Leather Company is ideal for men who'd rather not accessorize with a traditional money belt or fanny pack. Made in the USA from genuine English bridle leather, the belt looks like a regular belt whose only purpose is to keep your pants in place—and yet, the inside conceals a 25-inch zippered pocket capable of holding up to 24 bills folded lengthwise. 

You could also store passport copies and other necessary paperwork inside, although there's no space for fitting larger documents or valuables. Nevertheless, if a simple money belt is what you're after, this one is undoubtedly a good-looking choice. It measures 1.5 inches wide and 3/16 inches thick, is finished with high-grade leather polish, and features a large, interchangeable brass or polished steel buckle. It's available in black or brown leather.

Dimensions: 34-66 x 1.5 inches | Materials: Leather | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Waterproof

Crenova waterproof fanny pack set.

Three-piece set

Suitable for water parks/sports

Can be carried several ways

No inner compartments

If you’re planning a vacation on the water , you may prefer a fully waterproof money belt. These fanny packs from Crenova are IPX8-certified for submersion in up to 32 feet of water for as long as an hour, guaranteeing protection from the elements for your cash, ID, phone, and more. Your purchase includes a phone pouch and two separate packs: one fully opaque for added secrecy and another transparent and touchscreen-friendly. 

All three feature a triple seal and heavy-duty Velcro flap. Before using them for the first time, the manufacturer recommends performing a submersion test by inserting a dry piece of tissue and then placing the pack in the sink for at least an hour. You’re good to go if the tissue’s still dry after that time. The phone pouch comes with a lanyard, while the fanny pack features adjustable webbing belts and can be worn around the waist or over the shoulder.

Dimensions: 8.66 x 5.91 inches | Materials: PVC | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Active

Flipbelt classic running belt.

Designed to stay in place while running

Smooth, non-chafe materials

Easy to clean

Pockets are not zippered

Relatively expensive

Heading off on a hiking trip? Or do you like to keep fit on vacation? The FlipBelt Classic is an innovative money belt with a seamless, tubular design that sits flat on your hips and doesn’t ride up, even during vigorous exercise. With no buckles to pinch and soft-touch, moisture-wicking micropoly and Lycra fabric, it can be worn comfortably over or under your clothes and stretches to fit everything from credit cards to smartphones in multiple pockets. 

The openings in the belt are closed by turning them inward to your body. (If you want added security, consider paying extra for the zippered version of the FlipBelt.) There’s an internal key hook for keeping keys in place, and if the belt gets a little sweaty, it’s entirely machine-washable. Choose yours in sizes XXS to XXL, and opt for one of a wide range of colors, including black, hot pink, and reflective yellow.

Dimensions: 24-40 (unstretched) x 4 inches | Materials: 92 percent polyester, 8 percent Lycra | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Alternative

Zero grid travel neck wallet with rfid blocking.

Lots of secure storage

Comes with nice-to-have extras

The neck strap is not removable

Too small for some smartphones

This well-priced option from Zero Grid includes loops for attaching it to your belt. However, it also comes with a soft, adjustable neck strap, giving you a choice of ways to wear it. Made from water-resistant ripstop nylon, it has a moisture-wicking backing and is slim enough to wear concealed against your skin. Measuring 7.5 by 5.7 inches, it’s large enough for four passports, six credit cards, and most small-to-medium-sized smartphones. 

Divide your valuables among the three zippered front pockets and rear back pouches for ultimate organization. High-quality YKK zippers and built-in RFID protection add to the wallet’s overall value, as do two included recovery tags from the world’s largest lost-and-found company, ReturnMe. Attach these to your belongings to increase the chance of them finding their way back to you if you lose them. Wallet colors range from black to desert sand.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 5.7 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Lanney RFID Travel Blocking Money Belt

Compact and capacious

Adjustable waistband

Multiple ways to wear

Hand wash only

May be uncomfortable on smaller frames

Sometimes (maybe all the time), you just need a little extra room. The Lanney Money Belt offers easily concealed storage for trips when you have plenty of valuable items to keep handy and secure. With no fewer than five storage areas, including two zippered compartments and a hidden mesh pocket at the back, organization lovers and those carrying documents for others will appreciate its internal design. The waterproof ripstop nylon is built to take on the wear-and-tear and occasional surprise rainfall that traveling often throws your way. This model won't break the bank and comes with 10 RFID-blocking sleeves for added digital security.

Dimensions: 10 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

The Venture 4th Travel Money Belt won't disappoint those looking for a standard, tried-and-true model. Thin enough to go undetected under clothing, lined with RFID-blocking technology, and built with ripstop nylon, this pick is all the best of a classic. If maximizing value for money is a priority, reach for the Molarun Travel Money Belt .

What to Look For in a Travel Money Belt

Travel money belts come in several different shapes and styles, and choosing the right one depends on your required features. Some come with built-in RFID protection, while others include RFID-blocking sleeves—useful if you use them to carry sensitive data. If you want to transport bills only, a conventional belt with a concealed pocket may be sufficient, but if you want to pack your smartphone, passport, and other bulkier items, you’ll need a multi-compartment money belt or fanny pack. Other features to consider are different fastening styles and alternative ways to wear your money belt. 

The most popular material for a travel money belt is ripstop nylon—it’s lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, all qualities that make the belt comfortable to wear and up to the task of keeping your valuables secure. To prevent sweat buildup, a backing made of moisture-wicking mesh or natural silk is desirable if you wear the belt against your skin. Belts designed as style accessories often swap out ripstop nylon for more fashionable leather or polyester. In contrast, those who require a fully waterproof belt should look for one made of PVC or another soft plastic, and fitted with leakproof seals.

Travel money belts vary considerably in price, depending on factors ranging from materials and features to brand reputation. For example, a premium-grade leather or natural silk belt will inevitably cost more than one made from nylon or PVC. The travel money belts included on this list cost anywhere from under $10 to over $60; however, you should be able to find a quality, long-lasting belt to suit most travel purposes for around $20.

Depending on materials and construction, the best cleaning method will vary from belt to belt. You should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Some are machine-washable, while others should be wiped clean or washed by hand and hung up to dry. Before each use, you should check that the zippers and buckles are operating smoothly (if relevant) and that there is no wear and tear on the strap that could cause it to break unexpectedly.

Although it’s impossible to guarantee complete protection from thieves, using a money belt correctly can significantly reduce your chance of becoming a target. For ultimate security, choose a money belt with a slim profile that can be concealed beneath your clothes. Be aware of your surroundings when removing valuables from your money belt, too, since doing so in public could alert thieves to the fact that you’re wearing one and let them know where it is.

Depending on your money belt’s material and whether it has zippers, it may or may not set off the alarms on the airport security scanner. Nevertheless, most airports require you to remove all belts before going through security, including money belts. If you’re concerned about removing yours at the checkpoint, place it inside your carry-on luggage before you get there, and put it on in private afterward.

An RFID money belt protects its contents from the possibility of thieves scanning the RFID (radio frequency identification) chip on your passport or credit card and therefore stealing your sensitive data. RFID protection can be built-in by using fabrics capable of blocking RFID scanners, or it can come in the form of separate RFID-blocking sleeves. If your belt includes the latter, you must place your cards and passport inside the sleeves before putting them in the belt.

The short answer is whatever you want and can fit. Most people use money belts for traveling when pickpocketing is a concern. In this scenario, you'll want to go with only the essentials (think a credit card, maybe some cash, and your passport), as the more items you add, the less likely the belt will go undetected beneath clothing, which can defeat the purpose depending on the style. On the other hand, these accessories are also a great hands-free option and can function more like a fanny pack such as the CXWMZY bag , letting you pack more.

Jessica Macdonald is an experienced traveler who has used money belts to keep her valuables secure on her adventures around South America, Africa, and Europe. For this article, she compiled a list of more than 20 of the most popular products on the market, comparing price, features, and user feedback to come up with the category winners listed above. Preference was given to products with unique selling points and several hundred online reviews.

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The 5 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

In search of the best travel backpack? Our experts have tested over 60 unique packs since 2017 and include the top 15 in this review. Our collective love for research and travel allowed us to experience each bag fully across a variety of travel conditions, durations, and demands. This lineup of carry on friendly bags passed through the rigors of long plane rides, weekend road trips, and commuting from hotel rooms to city-wide destinations. Whether you're in the market for a top-tier bag to protect and organize your belongings while you travel the world, an easy bag for long weekend trips to visit family, or a sleek carry on that will fit outfits and electronics for your next business trip, our review will help guide you through the myriad of options and find the right bag for your needs.

Whether you're driving, flying, or using some other mode of travel, we've tested key components and travel essentials to help you get to your next adventure with style and ease. We've found best duffel bags for stuff-it-style packers and the best full-size luggage for those who value more structure in their travels. If you want a more general-use bag, one of these top backpacks is sure to catch your eye. No matter your preferences, we are confident that our recommendations for the best travel bags of any kind will help you and your belongings make it safely to your destination in style.

Editor's Note: This review was updated on April 17, 2024, to offer more detailed information on our top travel backpacks and advice on which bag is best for you.

Top 15 Product Ratings

Best overall travel backpack, osprey sojourn porter 46l.

• Storage & Protection 8.3
• Ease of Use 8.4
• Comfort & Fit 8.7
• Versatility 6.5

This backpack received above average across the board, which is why it earned a top spot in our lineup. It has a cavernous storage capacity, protects it's contents, and it is reasonably versatile, but one of our favorite things about the Sojourn Porter is how comfortable it is to carry. We can fully load this baby with 20+ pounds of gear and still walk around in relative comfort thanks to its well-crafted system of load-lifting straps and supportive padding. While not quite on par with the type of support you would get from a traditional backpacking pack, we think this is a good hybrid of weight distribution balanced with travel-friendly features such as stowable straps and extra grab handles.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter has features that make it more suitable for international adventure travel than some other travel backpacks. Its rugged design can easily withstand various outdoor conditions but is sleek enough to blend in at the airport. It is also one of the larger bags in our lineup, and the majority of the bag's storage space is in the main compartment, which is handy for times when you need to pack bulky gear. We think it does a great job of straddling the line between creature comforts and rugged practicality, and we would especially recommend it to those whose travels often take them off the beaten path.

Although there are many reasons to love this bag, the design has a few drawbacks. Given the rugged cavernous design and robust compression straps, it's quite easy to overload this bag and end up with a heavy and bulky monster on your back. The external compression straps that help attach daypacks or secure a sweatshirt also make it protrude quite far from your body. Once you've reached your destination, those same features also prohibit the bag from laying fully open and flat, though the bag does hold its shape nicely when empty, which is quite helpful for packing and accessing your items. On the whole, we found the Sojourn Porter to be a premium bag with premium features, and we highly recommend it for most trips and travels. If the Sojourn seems a bit too large, The North Face Base Camp Voyager is a smaller bag with premium features. Going further down in size, the Thule Subterra 34L is a super-compact option that is easy to carry and comfortable for extended wear.

Read more: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L review

Best Travel Backpack on a Tight Budget

Coowoz essentials.

• Storage & Protection 6.8
• Ease of Use 6.6
• Comfort & Fit 6.8

The storage features of the Coowoz Essentials are fairly average, but considering its far-below-average price, we aren't complaining. In fact, we were pleasantly surprised with how well the bag did compared to others in this price range. There are a variety of internal organization pockets on both the interior and exterior of the bag to help stow your travel items, as well as an integrated USB charging cord. A standout feature is the separate shoe and wet item pocket with exterior access so you can keep messy items away from your clean clothes. The waterproof fabric held up to its claim and kept the contents of the bag dry during our rain test.

There's no getting around it; travel can be expensive. That last thing you want to do is shell out for a pricey bag on top of hotels, transportation, and other travel costs. Enter the Coowoz Essentials . While not the highest-performing option in our selection of tested backpacks, the Coowoz offers many features that are not found in bags at a similar price point. It is perfect if you need a functional travel backpack for the occasional weekend trip, but know that you may not use it very frequently. It is not too big, not too flashy, but is still featured enough to be travel-friendly and comfortable enough to carry through the airport. Overall, the Coowoz is a great compact choice for budget-savvy travelers or for kids looking to carry their own belongings.

We tested and used the 31-liter option of the Coowoz . We loved this size for its lighter weight and ease of use, but the downside is that it limits the amount of travel items and clothes you're able to pack in the bag. Due to the internal layout, we felt that we weren't able to fit as much gear inside as similarly sized competitors. Even with its internal compression straps, this small model doesn't fit much more than a weekend's worth of clothes, assuming you travel light. The interior fabric of the bag is also very slick and a little noisy. It is not a deal breaker, and you don't notice it when carrying, but when loading and accessing your items, the lining feels a bit like a plastic bag. Lastly, the exterior pockets on this carry on backpack are a little awkward to access due to the protective flap over each zipper. While it helps protect from moisture, rooting around the inside is challenging, especially when the bag is full. That said, no bag in our lineup performed better at a lower price point. If you need more space but are still working with a tight budget, you might consider the Amazon Basics Carry On Travel . It has decent compression straps and external pockets and won't run you much more than the Coowoz . If you're willing to shell out a bit more money, the eBags Mother Lode has plenty of pockets that keep your gear accessible and make it highly livable.

Read more: Coowoz Essentials review

Best Travel Backpack for Internal Organization and Livability

Cotopaxi allpa 35l.

• Storage & Protection 8.1
• Comfort & Fit 8.0
• Versatility 5.5

Even if you're not traveling for work, most people these days bring a laptop or tablet with them on trips. For how common this is, we wish the Cotopaxi 's laptop sleeve was a bit more functional. When the pack is full, the zipper can be a challenge, and though padded on the outside, there was no internal padding on the laptop sleeve. Another minor complaint we had with this bag is also a byproduct of its incredibly organized interior. The integrated mesh dividers limit the ability to treat this bag like a duffel and just shove clothes and gear inside. Depending on your preferred packing style, this could be a blessing or a curse. Despite this, we found the Cotopaxi Allpa to be one of the easiest bags to travel with and live out of for a few days at a time, and we highly recommend it. If organization is your jam, the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag has more pockets than we knew what to do with, though there is certainly a space and home for every item on your packing list . A sleek, feature-rich alternative is the Peak Design Travel 45 . It has a large main compartment, and its internal mesh pocket is accessible from both sides of the pack.

Read more: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L review

Best Travel Backpack for Comfort Under Heavy Load

Osprey farpoint 40.

• Storage & Protection 8.0
• Ease of Use 6.9
• Comfort & Fit 10.0

The biggest downside to the Farpoint is the lack of any small external pockets for accessing items on the go. We dislike the need to reach into the main compartment and disturb our carefully packed clothes to grab headphones, snacks, and other frequently used travel accessories. Still, if you're a habitual over-packer and constantly worry about being able to carry your entire packing list comfortably, the Osprey Farpoint is just the backpack you need for your trip. The only bag that performs quite as well as the Farpoint in this metric is the other Osprey bag in our lineup, the Sojourn Porter . The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is also comfortable enough to lug around through a large airport, and it has pockets on the hip belt for quick access to items on the go.

Read more: Osprey Farpoint 40 review

Honorable Mention for Packing and Livability

The north face base camp voyager.

• Storage & Protection 6.7
• Ease of Use 8.9
• Comfort & Fit 7.0
• Versatility 6.0

While the small size of the Voyager makes it easy to slip under a seat or in an overhead bin, it also limits the amount of items you're able to pack. On top of this, we were disappointed by the absence of internal or external compression straps. A second missing design element in the Voyager is a stowable harness system. Carriers take a lot of wear and tear during travel between conveyor belts, gate checks, and cramped overhead compartments. The ability to stow and protect hanging straps, buckles, and webbing can significantly increase the lifespan of these critical components. Despite this, we loved the Voyager for short weekend trips and are confident that this bag will be a great addition to your carry on collection. One of our other recommended backpacks for top-tier livability is the Cotopaxi Allpa ; it features built-in packing compartments to store all your gear neatly, no matter how bumpy the travel gets. The Voyager is great for weekday business trips, but if you're going a little more off-road durability, we recommend a travel backpack like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . It features a thick and 100% recycled exterior and an extra durable scuff pad on the back of the bag.

Read more: The North Face Base Camp Voyager review

Compare Products

How We Test Travel Backpacks

We've taken these packs on all sorts of adventures over the years and have a knack for picking out the features that matter the most when it comes to living on the road. We use them everywhere we go, whether that be far-off lands or neighboring states, our day-to-day lives at home, using them around town and on work commutes. We pack and unpack each bag numerous times, taking note of how easy it is to store and organize our belongings in various configurations. We also evaluate the padding and weather protection that each bag provides.

For weeks at a time, we live out of these bags, both at home and while traveling, which allows us to accurately gauge how easy it is to grab the clothes and items we are looking for without destroying the organization within the pack. Lastly, we test the comfort, fit, and versatility of each bag by loading them up and carrying each bag around. Strap adjustability, available sizes, and its ability to be useful in a variety of scenarios all play into a bag's overall score. Learn more about how we test travel backpacks .

• Storage & Protection (30% of overall score weighting)
• Ease of Use (30% weighting)
• Comfort & Fit (30% weighting)
• Versatility (10% weighting)

Why You Should Trust Us

This review is brought to you by Hale Milano , Liz Chamberlain , and Hayley Thomas . Hale is a travel expert, having explored over 35 countries by foot, plane, boat, and car. He spent a period of his life traveling for work, hopping on planes with a few days worth of clothes and a computer week after week, and so knows the value of an efficient and functional travel bag. His passion for gear includes the bags he uses to pack it all in, and he brings a fresh perspective to our travel backpack testing team. Liz is no stranger to travel and has worked in the retail gear industry for years. She understands the importance of both form and function and brings a critical eye to this review. Hayley lived in a van for several years, so it's no secret that travel is a big part of her life. You can frequently find Hayley traveling to new climbing, biking, and skiing destinations — almost always with a backpack in tow.

How to Choose The Best Travel Backpack

Here are four key considerations to help narrow down your next travel backpack selection. See much more detail in our full How to Choose A Travel Backpack article.

What Size Works Best?

With the array of size options for backpacks, it can feel overwhelming to hone in on an appropriate size. Identifying your travel needs, such as the usual trip duration and the activities you partake in, are key considerations to help narrow down your choice. A bag under 30 liters is typically suitable for day trips and carrying essentials. A 30-liter to 50-liter pack is more applicable for weekend trips and multi-day adventures capable of packing extra clothes, toiletries, and electronics. 60 Liters plus is great for extended travels when you need a lot of storage. Finding the sweet spot between size and weight will help you avoid running out of room or having too much room on your next trip.

How Important is Comfort?

While comfort is often a high priority when shopping for a new backpack, people will have different preferences and needs to accommodate them. Considerations to look for include shoulder straps, back panels, and waist belts. Choosing a comfortable backpack is partially subjective but also comes down to key aspects such as the amount of padding, adjustability capabilities, and proper ventilation. Identifying your needs and looking at backpacks with these desirable features will help avoid discomfort and pain.

What Features Do You Need?

A trusty travel backpack will provide key features to make your trip that much easier. Organization systems, hydration pockets, and waterproof zippers are some examples of nice-to-have accessories. If you travel in wet climates, a water-resistant bag and zippers become critical to protecting your belongings. For those who travel frequently while working, having access to electronic compartments and protective features is a high priority. Consider your personal needs and what features make the most sense to you.

What Material Should You Choose?

Travel backpacks come in various materials, each with pros and cons. If you plan to travel in a hot climate area, a backpack made of mesh and nylon will provide better breathability than a bag built with a fabric such as canvas or leather. It's also important to note what type of activities you will partake in and whether a more durable fabric, such as Cordura or ripstop nylon, would be appropriate.

Analysis and Test Results

Since we can't possibly test every product ever made (although we would love to), we begin by researching the industry's top-rated options. After countless hours, we narrowed our search and settled on the best selection of the 15 most promising carry on backpacks. Once we received our test suite, the real fun began. We put each pack through rigorous testing under a very critical eye. We packed, unpacked, and repacked each bag countless times and hauled them to the car, taxi, and airport terminals to test their various features and functionality. We used a thoughtfully curated packing list to compare performance across models objectively and help you find your perfect travel pack fit . Over the years, these bags have accompanied us on adventures to destinations near and far, for overnight trips and multi-week jaunts around the globe.

While we strive to stay objective and honestly recommend the best gear here at GearLab, we also understand that considering a product's price to value ratio is an important part of the purchasing process. So even when recommending expensive products, we take into account the value a product brings to your life vs the actual cost. We always like to give options for various budget levels, and from our selection of top travel packs, you will surely find one that falls within your price range without needing to sacrifice the most important features. In the travel bag category, the largest differentiator is typically the material and crafstmanship. Durable, lightweight, and recycled materials with reinforced seams and straps tend to cost slightly more than less advanced, less protective, and heavy-weight materials. That said, we liked some of the less expensive bags as much as the very costly ones, and we recommend paying close attention to the specific functionality you seek rather than the stand-alone price.

Our travel backpack lineup has a few standouts regarding value: the top three scoring models all hover right around the average price point for a travel bag. The Osprey Sojourn Porter , Osprey Farpoint , and Cotopaxi Allpa all provide excellent features and performance for the money. A lower-budget standout is the Coowoz Essentials . This affordable bag outperformed others that cost five times its price.

One of our favorite bags, the Osprey Sojourn Porter , performed well across all of our testing metrics. It is durable, comfortable, and easy to use, and we were pleased to note that this didn't send its price tag skyrocketing upwards. Thankfully, if you prefer some of the features or design styles of our other top bags like the Osprey Farpoint or Cotopaxi Allpa , they all fall within the same price band.

The Coowoz carry on backpack takes the word bargain to another level and provides surprisingly good performance given its price. While the materials are noticeably lighter weight than the top-scoring bags, not everyone needs bulletproof luggage to survive day-in and day-out abuse from travel. The Coowoz is a good option for the occasional traveler looking to save a few bucks while still reaping the benefits that a travel backpack can provide over a traditional suitcase.

Storage and Protection

First and foremost, the primary purpose of a great piece of luggage is to store and protect your travel items while moving from one place to another. After all, if you can't fit the essentials or your items arrive damaged, then the rest is a moot point. To assess our lineup of bags in this metric, we evaluate the storage volume, stability, weather protection, and electronic protection features in our bags. We use a standard three-day packing list to test each bag's ability to stow clothing and other common travel supplies such as toiletries, electronics, and souvenirs. We also evaluate maximum storage capacity by loading each bag up to capacity with packing cubes and recording the amount that we are able to cram in. We evaluate how stable each bag feels on our backs, sitting on the ground, and propped on the seat next to us. We drench them with water from a high-pressure hose and examine the bag for leakage, paying special attention to areas near designated electronic pockets.

Related: How to Pack Luggage Like a Pro

A standout in this metric is the Peak Design Travel 45 . This massive gear hauler fits all of our supplies with room to spare — even without needing to open the expanding features of this bag. When packed full, we are still able to access small pouches on the outside or reach inside for items. It has both an expanding zipper and space-collapsing magnets to help tailor the size of the bag to your packing list. The bag is also quite stable, so there's no need to worry about it accidentally falling over when packed with sensitive electronics. Speaking of which, the large padded laptop sleeve set against the back panel is ideal for protecting laptops and tablets while still providing easy access. To cap it off, the 100% recycled 400 denier nylon shell is fully waterproof, and the watertight zippers and seams protect the contents from any water intrusion.

The next few bags that impressed us with their storage and protection capabilities all land in the same scoring zone. The Osprey Sojourn , Nomatic Travel Bag 40L , Cotopaxi Allpa , and Osprey Farpoint can all stow and protect gear with ease, no matter what you have inside. Thanks to its dual compression straps, the Sojourn is a beast when it comes to packing a high volume of clothing, and the padded shell of the bag helps protect fragile items from bumps in transit. While it won't protect your bag from getting lost, we love that the Sojourn comes with a TSID Luggage Registration tag. Once you complete the free registration, the tag links to the owner's information and can be more easily identified across a network of over 2,800 airports worldwide, helping you find your bag if it ever does get lost in transit (knock on wood).

The Nomatic is another great option for protecting your travel essentials. On top of comfortably accommodating all your gear, the Nomatic's water-resistant fabric and zippers kept all contents perfectly dry during our rain tests. But protection from water isn't the only thing the Nomatic excels at. This bag boasts an RFID protective pocket to keep your payment cards and IDs safe as well.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Osprey Farpoint are also impressive bags, both in their ability to fit your entire packing list and protect your items from damage. The Cotopaxi takes a unique approach to storage, using integrated mesh packing pockets, and the Farpoint has a more traditional single large compartment with internal compression straps to secure contents. Both options allow you to fit plenty of clothes and supplies, but which you like depends on your packing style preferences. One of our testers prefers the small pockets of the Cotopaxi, which keep everything organized each time you open the bag to grab a fresh pair of socks or a new shirt. Another tester prefers the open cavity style of the Osprey bags that allow you to dig down into the single pocket to locate what you need without having to remember which pocket you stashed your charger in this time.

Two final honorable mentions in our storage and protection metric are the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L and the Patagonia Black Hole . Both of these bags handle our standard packing list with ease and protect contents from the elements. However, neither is very stable under a full load. The Black Hole has a unique design where the bag is designed to be laid on its back, more akin to a duffel, not upright. There's even a grab handle right in the center of the back panel in case you want to carry it lengthwise instead of on your back. The Black Hole is also one of the more durable bags we tested; the 100% recycled TPU laminate material easily sheds water during rain showers and resists abrasions during transit in the trunk of a car or the cargo hold of a plane.

Given the Tortuga's size, we can happily pack all of our clothes with ease but wish it had compression straps to keep everything cinched in tightly for those instances where we don't need to pack it to the brim with clothes. The Tortuga earns a perfect score in our rain protection test thanks to its proprietary SHELL200 three-layered sailcloth fabric and waterproof zippers. The Tortuga also has lockable zippers, so if you're looking for a little extra protection on your travels, this may be a good choice.

Ease of Use

When you're living life on the go, your time should be spent focusing on taking in the views, checking off bucket list items, and grabbing your camera to snap the perfect shot. Having a travel backpack versus a suitcase aids in moving faster on foot, but it should also be easy to use during your downtime so that you can spend more of your vacation doing what you want rather than digging through clothes to find what you need. We assess how easy the pockets on each backpack are to access on the go, as well as how convenient each bag is to live out of. We give higher scores to the bags that we can pack to the brim while still providing quick access to all your essential items and useable external pockets. For each backpack, we also record the ease of switching the strap and harness system around to different carry methods. Lastly, if we find a unique feature that just makes life easy , we take note of it and bump the ease of use score accordingly.

One of our favorite bags to use is The North Face Voyager . Though its design is not as feature-heavy as other models, it is the thoughtful simplicity that makes it pleasant to pack and live out of. A perfectly proportioned main pouch holds its shape well when empty, making packing items a breeze. We are big fans of the removable internal divider that segments the compartment into two folded-shirt-sized areas. There is an internal mesh pocket for organizing your small items as well. Outside the bag, pockets for accessing items are heavily-featured and well-organized. There are two small item pouches for stashing your travel and tech essentials, and they're lined with a soft protective material so screens don't get scratched.

The Cotopaxi Allpa is another tester favorite, but in terms of design, it is almost the polar opposite of the Voyager . The Cotopaxi features four internal and integrated mesh pockets, like built-in packing cubes. The ability to open your bag and not have contents scattered everywhere can be great when your travels have you hopping destinations frequently, and you don't have time to constantly reorganize. Access on the go is less impressive, though still adequate for storing travel essentials like headphones, wallet, charging cords, and, of course, your favorite travel snacks. Beyond packing the bag, we found the harness system to be quite easy to use. Though the shoulder straps are permanently attached and don't stow away, the entire waist belt is removable. We love this feature over bags with hide-away waist belts. Although waist belts are great for supporting heavier loads, they can get caught during travel or when squeezing through airplane aisles. If you prefer not to use a belt, it can be nice to have the option to take it off completely rather than attempting to stuff or slide it into a tight slot.

Next up in our ease of use metric is the Osprey Sojourn Porter backpack. It boasts a large main compartment with an open cavity design, and the sturdy sidewalls and material hold the shape of the bag open for easy access and packing. Compression straps and two small mesh zipper pockets help to round out the internal organization. A large external pocket is well-suited for storing travel essentials that you may want easy access to en route to your destination. The backpack and waist straps can all be tucked away for protection during travel with relative ease.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack is another favorite for its livability and easy accessibility. The main compartment of the Tortuga folds completely open, providing unfettered access to the very large packing area and a mesh storage pocket on the inside flap. While the bag has plenty of room to store all your essentials and then some, we wish it had compression straps to hold gear secure inside. Externally, there is a large pocket that runs the length of the bag and has some small pouches and a padded tablet sleeve for organizing your frequently used items. The removable hip belt also has two pockets; however, we prefer not to use the removable belt during our testing as it tends to get in the way more than it helps.

Another bag that performs well in ease of use is the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag . With more pockets than most people can keep track of — 15 to be precise — this bag has a space for everything; the only way you can improve the organization of this bag is to buy a label maker and stick on the labels yourself. This bag has a dedicated place for each and every item you like to travel with, and the bright interior and numerous pockets of this bag look like a Marie Kondo dreamscape. However, if you are as forgetful as we are, the excessive number of pockets may be overwhelming. We often spend more time zipping and unzipping pockets to search for a single item than if we were to just rummage through one big pocket. Still, we can't deny that for the organized traveler, the Global Travel Bag is well-suited to life on the road.

Rounding out the group of high scorers in our ease of use category is the eBags Mother Lode . We are big fans of the pocket configuration on the eBag; they are good for shoving items in while on the go. We did notice that the zippers tend to catch because they are on the smaller side for such a large bag, but we think the overall design lends itself to decent livability. It unzips to lay completely flat like a suitcase. The internal mesh pockets, compression straps, and internal divider all help keep our items safe and organized while moving from point A to point B. At the end of the day, what more can you ask?

Comfort and Fit

A seasoned globetrotter knows that active travel days can be the most exhausting of the trip. A travel-specific backpack that carries comfortably when weighed down with all your belongings is a guaranteed way to improve happiness and lessen frustration.

Maybe you're on a shoestring budget, and your travel day requires schlepping your belongings from hostel to boat dock to bus station to airport, or maybe you rented a charming Parisian flat on the seventh floor of the building, only to find that the elevator is either broken or doesn't exist. In either case, you'll be grateful to have a pack that doesn't add unnecessary strain to your back and shoulders during long travel days. We thoroughly test the comfort of each bag under a heavier-than-average load and evaluate the padding and effectiveness of the backpack straps. In addition to loading up each bag with our belongings, we measure the weight of the bag alone and compare it to its capacity to get a weight-to-volume ratio. While not as important as in some other backpack categories, it can help you make the right choice for your travels.

Key features of a comfortable travel backpack include ample yet breathable padding, thoughtful weight distribution, and adjustability. When it comes to these metrics, no backpack in our lineup matches the performance of the Osprey Farpoint . This backpack boasts a harness system that rivals top-tier hiking backpacks. A LiteWire frame suspension helps bring weight from your back to the hip belt, and a mesh foam AirScape back panel provides breathability while keeping the weight close to your back. The waist, shoulder, chest, and load lifter straps are all incredibly comfortable. The entire torso length of the harness system is adjustable as well. If all that isn't enough, a convenient flap zips up to protect the entire harness and suspension system during travel. The Farpoint earned fully deserved perfect marks in our comfort evaluations.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter is another incredibly comfortable bag that can handle a heavy packing list and long wear times. Its firm and supportive waist belt, cushy shoulder straps, and load lifter straps help to distribute weight across your body. The entire harness system can also be stowed for transit should you need to check your bag for any reason.

A close third in this metric, the Tortuga checks off all of the comfort must-haves. The firm foam padding on the back panel, waist belt, and shoulder straps is about a quarter to a half-inch thick, and the weight distribution is well thought out. The harness system consists of shoulder straps, a sternum strap, load lifters, and a fully removable waist belt. When buckled, the waist belt is quite comfortable and effective; however, the quick attachment clips allow it to swing, dangle, and get tangled easily when not in use, so we prefer to either buckle the straps around the waist or remove them altogether to avoid the hassle. The pack sits closely to your back, and every part of the harness system is highly adjustable, down to the placement of the shoulder straps.

The Thule Subterra 34L is another standout in this metric. This compact bag features comfortable shoulder straps that are ergonomically shaped and fit well around the shoulders and chest. The real proponent of the Thule's comfort is the tapered shape of this bag. Whereas most travel backpacks in our lineup feature a boxy shape, the Thule tapers inward at the bottom of the bag, creating a slim feeling pack and a well-distributed load.

We found the Cotopaxi Allpa to be quite comfortable, though not as supportive or firm as others. The Allpa is essentially a large, soft rectangle on your back. It features complete suspension and decent padding. It is comfortable to wear, though it doesn't handle extremely heavy loads as gracefully as some of our other options.

The Peak Design backpack has ergonomic shoulder straps, a thickly padded adjustable hip belt that can be tucked away when not needed, and excellent overall structure. The Patagonia Black Hole is designed a bit differently than your standard travel backpack. Because of this, it lacks the support and structure of other top backpacks in our lineup, but its straps and padding are still quite comfortable to wear when loaded up with gear, and we don't have any major complaints.

Two final bags worth mentioning for their carry comfort are The North Face Voyager and Topo Designs . Both of these bags provide above-average features that make them more comfortable than most. The Voyager's back panel padding is on the firmer side and is quite supportive when stuffed with 3+ days of clothing and toiletries. The Topo bag's straps are very pleasant; however, the lack of structure in the back panel means it can rub your body just a little too much when fully packed.

Versatility

The ideal travel backpack can facilitate seamless transitions from one leg of your trip to the next, encouraging a fun travel experience and helping transportation go smoothly. It should function well on any of the various trips that fit into your lifestyle, whether it is filled with bathing suits for the beach vacation of a lifetime or formal clothes for a business trip. We looked at the versatility of each bag by examining its usefulness and practicality for different types of travel and uses — can it double as a daypack or hiking pack — as well as available color options, size options, and style. Be sure to read between the lines of the numerical ratings and award winners to find your perfect pack.

For the most part, our backpack lineup features bags that are designed to excel as your primary travel bag and still fit within the size restraints of a carry on. They are feature-rich in areas that support livability, access on the go, and comfort. What helps some of the top contenders stand out over others are the style and color options for the bag, as well as its useability as an everyday carryall when you're not off galavanting around the globe.

One of the travel backpacks with the most potential for versatility is the Thule Subterra . Unlike other bags that are larger and have a full suitcase-style zipper opening, the Subterra features a compact design with a top-load design, and it's relatively compact. The Subterra has a packing cube included that is designed to be slid in and out of the pack. This increases versatility because you can remove the packing cube, leaving you with a compact bag that could be used as a day pack for touring the city or trails. Its sleek and stylish design also makes it appropriate for any kind of travel.

The Osprey Farpoint is another versatile bag that has the potential to do double duty, especially if you are bound and determined to bring only one bag. The fully equipped harness, suspension, and compression systems make it an ideal pack if you want to leverage the Farpoint for heavier loads, such as hiking trips, if needed. Visually, it has a more rugged design, but we think that style can appeal to a variety of individuals, whether you are a dirtbag climber or just dipping your toes into gorpcore fashion.

Several other bags in our testing have proven to be reasonably versatile, and at the very least, they are all significantly more versatile luggage options than what you would get with a traditional suitcase or duffle bag. The North Face Voyager is small enough that it can be used for a daily commute into the office, packing it with a laptop and binders. The Osprey Sojourn 's muted color palette and day-pack compatible design help boost the appeal for both business and pleasure trips. The impressive 21 color options of the Coowoz combined with its compact design mean you can transition from the airport to the office with ease without looking like you're dragging a suitcase around behind you. The Hynes Eagle 40L Carry On and Asenlin 40L Travel backpacks, with their small size and plethora of color options, respectively, are quite versatile bag choices for travelers looking to maximize the use they can get out of their bag.

Finding the right travel backpack can be almost as tricky as finding your ideal travel companion. Everyone has a different reason to travel, and there is a huge variety of travel backpacks available today. The common theme is their ability to help you move fast and light on your travels while carrying all the gear you need comfortably on your back. Some of these carry on packs highlight storage and organization, some function like a deluxe duffel, and some specialize in carrying heavy gear comfortably. We hope that with the help of this review, you are able to match the best travel backpack to your specific uses and preferences.

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Writer Sarah Hoover Uses This Fanny Pack As a (Minimalist) Diaper Bag

Instagram ads with stuff I “needed” to care for a baby began to pop up the minute I Googled, “Am I pregnant if my pregnancy test has two faint lines?” After a couple more searches — “What to do about a first-trimester identity crisis?” and “How to stop hating your husband for getting you pregnant even though all you wanted was for your husband to get you pregnant” — the ads went from occasional to overwhelming. More devilish than traditional ads, they seemed targeted to expose my deepest secret: I had no fucking clue what I was doing as a parent, or even if I really wanted to be one. They also suggested a solution to those problems: Buy lots of things.

From sound machines , to pacifiers with stuffed animals attached, to wipe warmers , to bassinets , to bounce seats , I began to dedicate my limited energy and mental capacity to making spreadsheets of these items and their recommended brands. Every time I added one, a new question would start violently swirling around in my brain: If you are stuck somewhere without a sound machine , will your baby ever sleep again? Why are room-temperature wipes so bad? Do I need a bassinet and a crib if the crib is on wheels and can be moved from room to room? How does a stroller cost as much as a used car? Feeling woefully insecure with no maternal instincts that I could identify, the only apparent fix was to buy, buy, buy. Then my prepartum depression kicked in. It manifested in symptoms like “mom brain,” a melting of the mind that has zero scientific proof, but almost all birthing people report experiencing. Even with my spreadsheets, I couldn’t muster the energy to purchase almost anything for my unborn, whose arrival I feared and dreaded.

It turned out that I didn’t really need a lot of it. When I left for the hospital, I had only a crib, diapers , wipes (cold — because I’m a cruel witch), and a bunch of onesies. When I returned with my son, my supplies grew to include hospital-provided baby blankets, infant hats, formula bottles, diapers, and mesh underwear (restitution, I thought, for paying taxes to a government that seemingly could care less about its citizens’ general health). I got by just fine with this stuff for weeks, bathing my child in the sink (without a folding bathtub or inflatable neck buoy), swaddling him in hospital blankets (no sleep sacks pour moi ), and, with no desire to make space for a gargantuan diaper pail, disposing of his in a paper-grocery-bag-lined trash can . Eventually, it came time to leave the house and bring my son, too. That’s when I discovered that, for day-to-day excursions, a fanny pack is far superior to any proper diaper bag .

Bags tend to fill up with crap the way gaseous substances expand to fit the room that contains them. Having successfully navigated my son’s first few weeks without buying a lot of that crap, the thought of buying a diaper bag designed to tote it almost felt like a mockery of my threadbare parenting. Like a lot of the baby gear I added to my spreadsheet, a diaper bag also evoked terrifying thoughts about my failures as a mother that fed my depression as it evolved from prepartum to post. Looking nothing like a bag — diaper or otherwise — the Paravel fanny pack I chose to use instead did not conjure these thoughts. It has just enough room for the baby things I needed on daily excursions in my son’s first year: Two diapers, a little Ziploc of wipes, and an extra onesie just in case he took a blowout shit at the Odeon and I had to make a quick judgment call. Now that he is older, my load is lighter — a diaper and a couple of wipes — but the compact pack does not tempt me to stuff it with more. His supplies go in its larger back pouch, along with my cell phone, while my ChapStick, keys, and credit cards fit neatly in a smaller pouch in the front.

Shown in navy, it comes in lots of other colors, including black, gray , olive green, red, and yellow.

The fanny-pack-as-diaper-bag has other practical benefits: As a parent, you want free hands. You don’t want a bag that’s big enough to take on an Arctic expedition , nor one that will slip off your shoulder and smack your kid in the face. And you definitely do not need to invest in something with a designer label. Paravel’s pack, in its austerity and attention to smart design, goes well with jeans and simple dresses , but has a price that makes me not too worried if it ends up with a little baby puke on it. Plus, it covers my little mom bulge that has not gone away even three years postpartum — and may never, because I got too bored to complete the 18 recommended weeks of physical therapy to properly close a pregnancy-generated diastasis recti.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers

By Gabrielle Porcaro

As someone who frequently travels, I've slung duffels, totes , and travel purses on my arm, but nothing compares to using the best travel backpacks. Depending on the length of your trip, a suitcase can either be too bulky or not big enough, so you'll need the vital second bag to make sure all your clothes, tech, and gear securely arrive at your destination. Plus, traveling with a backpack can be more supportive for your back, freeing up your arms and hands to pull out directions on your phone or to hold an iced coffee. Backpacks can also be surprisingly roomy, so everything you need (or want) on your trip fits as comfortably as possible. The good news is there are a wide range of excellent options to suit any and all of your needs. Below, we found the most travel-friendly options and tapped Glamour editors and some of our frequent-flier friends to share the best travel backpacks.

What to look for in a travel backpack

When shopping for luggage items like a travel backpack, the comfort and capacity of the bag is key. You want it to feel easy on the body, which means wide straps or a hip belt to distribute weight, which comes in handy if you're running to catch a plane or carrying it through a crowded subway. Bonus points if the straps are they adjustable and padded. Consider the material: Is it lightweight, soft, and made of durable material like water-resistant fabric? As for size, think about the use of the backpack. There are weekender bags and carry-on size options you can use for long weekends or smartly packed weeklong vacations and styles for short day trips, hikes, or shopping excursions.

The best travel backpacks, at a glance

• Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack , $210
• Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack , $33
• Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack , $78
• Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack , $30
• Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Most Stylish : Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack , $150

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Here's a simple, sleek backpack with plenty of built-in organization. “My twin sister and I have traveled the world together, and this bag came in particularly handy on our trip to South America when we both needed more room besides our carry-on luggage. What I loved about this piece is it's essentially a suitcase with straps. The wrap zipper fully opens up, allowing you to see and organize your goods into the compartments. Crafted in repurposed nylon, the exterior is one of a kind, and the colors made it easier to spot one another through the crowds,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Porcaro .

Capacity: 42 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Repurposed nylon body; suitcase layout; weight-distributing harness system
• Cons: Can easily show dirt

Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

As a runner-up, consider this the Swiss Army knife of backpacks. Hidden in this compact, durable bag are 20 pockets and compartments to accommodate and organize everything from clothes to an umbrella to power cords. A practical standout feature of this travel backpack is an external USB port with set-in charging cables to charge your phone (just remember to charge your power pack before heading out on your trip). Another noteworthy aspect is the U-shaped 3D breathable mesh straps designed to relieve stress from shoulders and reduce a sweaty back.

Capacity: 52 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: So many pockets for organizing; USB charging port; comfortable
• Cons: Chunky, technical look

Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

Lululemon gets a lot of love for its Lulu leggings and activewear, but don't sleep on accessories like its laptop bags . A classic backpack with a modern design, the Everywhere Backpack has a clean appearance that will effortlessly match your look. Inside it's spacious and has a padded pocket that fits a 16-inch laptop. On the exterior is a front zipper pocket for keys, antibacterial wipes, headphones…whatever you need handy while on the go.

Capacity: 22 L / Waterproof : Water-repellent

• Pros: Internal laptop sleeve; side water bottle pockets; lightweight
• Cons: No luggage strap; not a ton of pockets

Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack

This affordable, multifunctional pack is lightweight but can hold a lot and easily fit under an airline seat as a carry-on. “I loved the space and compartments of this bag. It's durable and packed a lot of room for so many things. The luggage handle strap is also a bonus if you're hauling a roller bag,” wrote one Amazon reviewer . Bonus: It has a shoes and a wet pocket compartment.

Capacity: 17 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Separate shoe compartment, 29 color options; USB port design
• Cons: Short luggage strap

By Emily Tannenbaum

By Danielle Sinay

Best for Commuters : Everlane the ReNew Transit Backpack

Whether you're a college commuter or in the office most days, this is an excellent option for everyday travel or work trips. It's a go-to for Condé Nast associate director of box business operations Haley Welch . “The separate laptop compartment makes organizing seamless, as does the front and upper zipper compartments, which is great for a Kindle,” she says. She likes that the chic and minimal look effortlessly mixes with every outfit, from comfy travel joggers and hoodies to a work-appropriate suit or dress.

Capacity : 27 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Internal and external water bottle holders; zipper pocket on top; made from renewed materials
• Cons : Only holds a 15-inch laptop

Most Stylish : Best Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

For anyone looking for a dressier option for their everyday commute or regular work trips, Tumi has a gorgeous style. Don't let the sleek appearance fool you; the zipper reveals a very roomy interior but still folds flat. A two-way zipper makes it easier to grab whatever you need from the inside with a smaller front pocket as well. There’s also a very convenient add-to-a-bag sleeve to secure this nicely over your suitcase handle, making it one to use on daily and international excursions. It's so stylish it can double as a cute work bag for office days.

Capacity: 15"H x 12"W x 4 1/2"D. (Interior capacity: large) / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros :Packable; folds down flat; lightweight
• Cons: Doesn’t fit a ton

Best for Organization : Snoffic Travel Backpack

If remaining organized is of the utmost importance while traveling or in everyday life, look no further than this Snoffic backpack. This wallet-friendly pick has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and under $35 price tag. “I was able to pack a week's worth of summer clothes in it, which included two summer dresses," says one Amazon reviewer . Not only does this bag offer ample space and waterproof material, but it also includes two clear toiletry bags (also waterproof) to help you reduce your zip-lock baggie usage. Plus, it comes in a wide range of pretty shades.

Capacity : 40 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Nicely priced; roomy; includes two toiletry bags
• Cons : Boxy shape

Best for Pockets : Athleta Excursion Backpack

This pick, courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs , is one that can hold every little trinket or gadget you own. “I thought this backpack was going to my go-to for hiking, but it’s actually my go-to for pretty much everything. I love how sleek it is, and yet, despite its slim appearance, it manages to fit my 15-inch laptop, my secondary screen, charger, headphones, e-reader, and mouse. It has handy organizational features, like an inner key ring, zippered outer pockets for me to stash my lip gloss and phone, and not one but two mesh pockets that fit my water bottle and an umbrella. Its handles are also made of a breathable fabric—so useful when I’ve worked up a sweat while out and about.”

• Pros :Lightweight; ripstop material resists snags and tears; mesh back panel for added support
• Cons: Larger on top shape

Best Minimalist Design : Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

“On my last flight I saw not one, not two, but multiple travelers with this style hanging from their backs. As someone who regularly takes Dagne Dover bags on trips, I understand the popularity. The neoprene material is strong, soft, and stretchy, which causes the bag to flex to your body and whatever you put inside. It's forgiving, allowing you to fit in and possibly overstuff everything you need for a trip. It also washes well, ensuring it will always have that chic appearance even after some wear and tear,” says Porcaro. Dagne Dover also makes excellent diaper backpacks like this parent-approved Indi Diaper Bag .

Capacity: 16 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Packs a lot; machine washable
• Cons: Neoprene is a bit heavier than other material; material creases easily

Best for Airplane Travel : Augustnoa Classic Noa

“So many features drew me to this bag: the eco-friendly (plus water-friendly) material, smart design, and luggage sleeve—a must for any travel carry-on piece. There are ten pockets and compartments to organize essentials, something I took full advantage of when using. As an active person trying to hydrate more, I also appreciated the side pockets that securely held my water bottle (I bent over, and it didn't budge). It also includes a removable drawstring bag, something I always forget to pack for morning workouts and overnight travels,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 21 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Pockets on straps; laptop and tablet sleeve; two water bottle holders
• Cons: Pockets in the back and on straps are small

Best Roll Top : Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Expandable storage is always a plus with any travel bag. This backpack, from super cool brand Roark, has an adjustable top to allow more room. The roll-top also has a magnetic entry, allowing for easy and secure access on the move. Interior and exterior pockets, including one for your tablet or laptop, sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your passport, are specific details that make this a unique backpack. Ergonomic air mesh padded straps, a quilted back, and chest straps prevent this from adding any discomfort to your travels. The appearance calls for adventure, but it equally works in cities.

Capacity: 27 L / Waterproof : 100% Nylon

• Pros: Streamlined look; quilted back; magnetic closure top
• Cons: Could use more internal pockets

Best Large Travel Bag : Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

The beauty of this bag is it says it right in the title—it's a black hole. With a 55-liter capacity, there's no doubt it will hold everything you need for a long weekend or even a long weekend trip. Ultra-comfortable to carry, it's perfect for hiking excursions, camping trips, or multi-city European backpacking adventures. Durably made with 100% recycled fabric, this fits in the overhead bin; if you want to check it, you can trust it will return to you just as you left it.

Capacity: 55 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros: Large, carry-on size, top and side handles; removable shoulder straps
• Cons: Rugged design

Best for Laptop : Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

If you're looking for a laptop backpack , this is a top choice. Hershel backpacks are a go-to for marriage and family therapist and mom of two boys, Whitney Steller. “I have had this for almost six years, and the quality is amazing. No rips or anything and the straps are still comfortable. “The classic grade school look was also a draw and the fact that it fits perfectly under a plane seat. This style, in particular, is eco-friendly, made from post-consumer water bottles, and has a padded compartment to fit up a 15-inch laptop.

Capacity: 20 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Optional strum strap to help disturbed weight; padded compartment for laptop
• Cons: No luggage sleeve

Best Y-Pack : Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

This is an awesome option for anyone who ends up leaving a trip with more than they brought. “The adjustable Y-shaped strap can be tight and secure or loosened to allow for more room, which is the reason why this is a piece of heavy rotation for me. It always shocks me how much I can fit/shove into the main compartment yet still slide my laptop out of the back sleeve. No matter if it’s filled with a hoodie and various pouches holding makeup, power cords, and snacks; it's easy to access. I like to use the zip pocket on the top to store antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, headphones, and anything else I want easy access to once I arrive on the flight,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 23.8 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Drawstring closure offers more space; zip pocket on top for easy access; durable material great for travel and the outdoors
• Cons: G-hook buckle closure can sometimes be tough

Best Waterproof : SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

The beauty of this piece is that it rolls up for easy packing within a suitcase or larger travel backpack. The fact that it's created from an extremely lightweight material also ups the packability and wear factor. Jen Ator, a personal trainer, used this on her honeymoon in Thailand. “Not only was it super sturdy and waterproof, but it fits everything we needed during day trips.” She also pointed out how handy the exterior pocket was for easy access to essentials like a phone to snap a picture of her and her husband.

Capacity : 18 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Lightweight; stowable
• Cons: No interior pocket

Best Convertible : Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Adaptability is vital when traveling, and this Thule convertible backpack offers various ways to hold it. If you're in a tight space, de-boarding, or want to give your shoulders a break, there is a longer shoulder strap and top handle to hold. Inside the backpack, you'll find compartments that look like your favorite easy-rolling carry-on suitcase, making it easy to keep everything with you secure and organized. Another standout feature is the exterior crush-resistant SafeZone compartment that's perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone.

Capacity: 21 ¾"H x 14"W x 8"D. / Waterproof : Water Resistant

• Pros: Crust resistant, two-way zip closure, RFID-shielded pocket;
• Cons: Expensive

Best for City Travel : PAK Large Nylon Backpack

“As a backpack I recently added to my collection, I was impressed by how many features were hidden in what seemed like a pretty basic bag. First, it’s worth noting how seamlessly this slid on and off my back, making it a breeze to sit on the subway or grab my wallet to buy coffee. At first glance, I was confused about the zipper on the bottom of the front pocket, but when I realized it was a coat sling, which, as someone who runs cold and always has an extra layer, is something I will use again and again. Another made-for-me feature is an extra large pocket for water bottles since it’s a personal pet peeve when they aren’t wide enough for standard sizes. Having only worn this around the city for daily life, I appreciate that the shape and look of the pack are city-ready and more polished. When I take this on international trips, I look forward to using the hidden theft-proof compartments,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 13.5”L x 7” W x 14” H / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Easy access pocket in the back, Coat sling, Large side pockets
• Cons: Not super large

Best Customizable : Roam Continental Backpack

Anyone who is a fan of customization will appreciate this pick. Buyers can choose the color they want on the front, back, side, and straps to create a bag that is uniquely theirs. This is favorite of Glamour commerce editor Jenifer Calle , who has been using it for years. “It fits enough for weekend trips and vacation travel. I particularly like that the side zippers fit my Owala water bottle and there are plenty of zipper and pockets to hold my wallet, keys, chargers, lip balms, and more” says Glamour’s Calle.

Capacity : 26 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros : Customizable; 100-day trial period; soft material; luggage sleeve
• Cons : Expensive

By Kelsey Clark

By Danielle Cohen

By Jake Henry Smith

By Paula Lee

The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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The Best Carry-On Backpacks for Every Traveler

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Travelpro Luggage Review: We Tested the Platinum Elite Collection

Here's why these popular softside suitcases are worth the investment.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Travlepro Luggage Performance

The bottom line: should you buy travelpro luggage, more travelpro luggage we love, why trust good housekeeping.

Founded in the 1980s by a pilot who was always on the go, Travelpro is an innovative luggage brand that has set the standard for the rolling luggage we all travel with today. The brand's bags, initially designed for airline personnel, were the first to roll upright and use a telescopic handle, and they were quickly adopted by the public who appreciated that the bags were easy to use and made frequent flying a breeze.

Keep reading to learn more about Travelpro's luggage and about how I and my fellow GH staffers put them to the test.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry On

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

Travelpro Platinum Elite Regional Underseat Duffel Bag

Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside Expandable Carry on Luggage

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Rolling Underseat Bag

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

Travelpro luggage overview.

Travelpro offers a variety of soft and hardside suitcases , along with other bags and travel accessories like backpacks, packing cubes and duffels. The brand's best-selling Platinum Elite collection is one of our favorite luggage lines for business trips and for those who travel regularly because of their top-of-the-line construction and functional features like easy-to-access external pockets, self-aligning wheels and durable nylon material.

Travelpro is best known for its softside suitcases. The Platinum Elite carry-on and checked bags use a heavyweight nylon fabric that performed well in our abrasion assessments , resisting wear and tear after being rubbed back and forth 15,000 times by our Wyzenbeek abrasion tester, which simulates extended use. Plus, the material is covered in DuraGuard, a water and stain-resistant coating that helps keep your luggage in tip-top shape even with lots of use. We gave the zippers perfect scores for water resistance during our tests.

When we released the carry-on and checked bags repeatedly at different angles from our drop tester (pictured), we were impressed by how well the luggage held up, without major damage to the bags or breakage of the wheels or handles. After one roundtrip journey on an airline, I did notice some small marks and scratches on the plastic components surrounding the telescopic handle on the checked bag.

Your carry-on bag should hold everything you need for a short getaway, and Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on has a spacious interior with a capacity of 46L — 5 to 10L more packing space than some other carry-ons from popular brands we've tested. The bag unzips to reveal one large compartment to store all of your belongings (pictured), and it's full of helpful features to simplify packing.

One tester shared, "This had better organization than any other suitcase I’ve tried." When I packed the suitcase in the Textiles Lab, I was able to fit my standard packing load for a weekend trip's worth of clothing, shoes and accessories with ease, and there was room to spare. The softside material is flexible, so you can really fill it to the brim.

There's a removable garment bag, a wet bag for toiletries, several built-in mesh accessory pockets and four external pockets, including one that can hold up to a 15-inch laptop and another to store a portable power bank for convenient recharging on the go. To secure your things in place, there's an adjustable compression panel, and if you tend to overpack your bags like me, you'll love the 2-inch expansion system that's tapered to prevent the suitcase from getting top-heavy and tipping over.

The medium checked bag has 97L of packing space (more than double the space of the carry-on) , making it the perfect pick for a long trip or a family vacation. At 10 lbs, it weighs more than some other medium checked bags we've tested, which eats into the 50 lb weight restriction set by most airlines.

Like the carry-on, it unzips to one large packing space (pictured) and is equipped with lots of compartments for organized storage like a larger removable wet bag, mesh pockets and a built-in suiter. One tester shared, "It helped keep me organized and made it much easier to find what I needed." There are two roomy external pockets to stash travel essentials, as well. This bag also has adjustable compression panels for security, and it offers 2 inches of zippered expansion for additional room.

Ease of Use

The telescopic handles on the Platinum Elite bags are contoured for a better grip (pictured). I was impressed by how easy it was to raise and lower the carry-on's telescopic handle without it jamming on the way up or down. The handle on the checked bag doesn't lift quite as smoothly, but it was incredibly sturdy and didn't wobble when fully extended. The carrying handles on both bags are made of genuine leather and aren't too tight, so it's simple to lift the bags into an overhead bin or from the luggage carousel.

A common tester complaint about Travelpro's Platinum Elite suitcases is they're a little more difficult to steer than other suitcases we've tested. The bags have magnetic, self-aligning spinner wheels that roll smoothly and glide over different surfaces like tile, wood and carpeting, but when I pulled the suitcases, they always drifted towards me instead of rolling alongside me, so I regularly had to redirect them.

The zippers are heavyweight and easy to pull, thanks to their contoured design, and they moved effortlessly along the track without sticking at the corners of the bag or getting caught on the material.

Yes! If you consider yourself a frequent flyer, travel for business often or are just looking for something sturdy and reliable, I highly recommend investing in Travelpro luggage , especially from the brand's Platinum Elite collection.

The bags have a more traditional look and aren't going viral online like some other styles we recommend at GH, but they're classic, and they'll never go out of style. Priced at more than $300 for a carry-on suitcase, the luggage isn't cheap, but it's built to last. These bags have stood out for years in our Textiles Lab tests, always performing well in durability and performance categories.

If you purchase the luggage on Travelpro's website , the brand has a generous 100-day trial period , so you can test it out and return it for any reason if it doesn't suit your travel needs. Travelpro also offers a limited lifetime warranty for its Platinum Elite collection, covering defects on wheels, handles, zippers and more — and it even covers damages caused by airlines.

In addition to its standout softside suitcases, Travelpro carries other types of luggage. To match your Platinum Elite luggage set , opt for the Platinum Elite Underseat Duffel as your personal item. It's made with the same durable nylon material and classic style and has a built-in luggage sleeve to slide over your rolling suitcase.

If you prefer hardside luggage, Travelpro's Maxlite Air hardside suitcases are made with a lightweight yet durable polycarbonate material that performed well in our drop tests. The bag has a butterfly-style opening with two fully zippered compartments for maximum security, and there's an expandable panel for 2 inches of extra packing space.

The Maxlite line also includes softside bags like its Rolling Underseat Bag ] that's designed to fit under your airplane seat. It features a telescopic handle and smooth rolling wheels for easy transport at the airport. We also love the bigger Maxlite luggage including the large checked bag, which is lighter-weight and more affordable than the brand's other softside suitcases, but it's not quite as luxe.

Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst and has tested and written about different types of luggage and travel accessories including softside luggage, hardside luggage, checked and carry-on luggage, duffels and travel blankets. Amanda has also conducted luggage testing for our Family Travel Awards programs and is a frequent flyer herself, venturing on more than 50 flights and cross-country train rides over the past two years. She used her relative expertise and personal experience, along with Textiles Lab testing data when reviewing Travelpro's luggage.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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We Tested Lo & Sons’ Best-selling Travel Bags Across the Country — Here Are Our 5 Favorite Styles

Shop these spacious, stylish, and functional bags ahead of your spring travels.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Packing for any trip is a multi-step process of paring down exactly what you’ll need to be the most prepared for any adventure. Of course, clothing and proper footwear may be the first things that come to mind, but selecting the best travel purse for the job is also key for setting you up for a stress-free (and stylish) vacation. As a self-proclaimed purse connoisseur, I was thrilled when the Travel + Leisure team was recently granted the opportunity to put Lo & Sons’ high-quality range of travel-ready bags to the test — and my fellow writers and editors felt the same after taking the thoughtful and luxurious bags to the real world.

Tested from the streets of New York to Boston and Los Angeles, Lo & Sons travel purses proved to provide next-level organization and space for every trip you might have on the horizon. So, keep reading to find our team’s favorite styles, so you can make the best selection for your itinerary. 

Pearl Crossbody

Lord & Sons

“My purse collection is my pride and joy, and while I firmly believe that you can never have too many, I have also found that since testing this shockingly spacious and versatile bag I have begun reaching for my other pieces significantly less. I’ve been in need of a new black bag to take the place of the one I’ve been using since college, and the roomy compartments and adjustable straps of this purse easily slid right into my collection — so easily, in fact, that I have received compliments from nearly every friend that I’ve worn it around.

Apart from one large primary compartment that’s secured with three snaps, this bag also boasts two additional zippered pockets which offer all the security I’m looking for in any purse I’m traveling with. I’m even able to fit my basic essentials (phone, wallet, keys), alongside a book, notebook, and a glasses case, with room to spare during busy days running around New York City. 

I’ve been wearing this purse as a shoulder bag but was impressed to find that it’s not only adjustable to crossbody length (which is ideal for maximum security while traveling), but it also comes with an extra looped strap that turns this bag into a handy wristlet for upscale dinners and nights out. And while my biggest gripe with other purses is that my keys often get lost within the depths of the pockets, a convenient key leash has completely put this issue to bed. All that to say, this is the perfect purse for every single occasion, day or night — and it’s absolutely gorgeous!” - Merrell Readman, Senior Commerce Writer

Travel + Leisure / Merrell Readman

Bond Crossbody Sling Bag

Lo & Sons

“I’ve had my eye on this stunning leather sling bag for quite some time, and I was ecstatic when the opportunity came to test it. The bag’s functional design, which is stocked with plenty of pockets and a spacious main compartment, makes it roomy enough to hold a day’s worth of essentials, whether I’m getting on a flight, exploring a new city, heading to an appointment, or hiking (I don’t love to expose the high-quality sheepskin leather to the elements, but if you have the spot-cleanable polyester version, then definitely don’t worry about getting it dirty). 

But, what I really love is how long the strap is. I’m busty, and I’m finding that not every sling bag’s strap is long enough to comfortably drape over my chest — which has made me hesitant to hop on the bag trend. However, The Bond’s 29.5-inch strap expands up to 40.25, giving me plenty of room to wear it crossbody style without feeling constricted. But, it's so smooth and soft to the touch that I love holding it. 

And, unlike other belt bags that I’ve tried, this one actually looks like a purse with its luxe leather exterior — not a frumpy fanny pack. This means that I can easily wear it for casual outings and even dress it up for fancier occasions.” - Emily Belfiore, Commerce Editor

Waverley 2 Convertible Crossbody

“After testing this genius 4-in-1 convertible bag at home in Boston, I can honestly say that I've never tried a travel purse that's so versatile. Thanks to its adjustable strap, it can be worn four ways: crossbody, belt bag, shoulder, wristlet/clutch — which means I can dress up my look depending on what's on the itinerary. Running errands or walking around town, I loved the casual crossbody and belt bag styles, while on a dinner night out I loved the sleeker wristlet and shoulder styles. Based on a photo review I saw on the website, I even tried running the strap through my belt loops as a literal belt — that was a first for me style-wise, but I loved the security, so I will be doing it again.

At 5.6 inches by 8 inches by 2 inches, it's just big enough to hold my essentials — wallet, keys, phone, AirPods, and Chapstick — but it's still small enough to look inconspicuous (and elevated) for a night out and not be burdensome. It's light at .6 pounds so it feels natural yet still secure when it's on me. My only note is that travelers who will be out all day and need to load up on snacks and a change of clothes might want a bigger bag with more storage space, but I found this perfect for short jaunts.

I loved the thoughtful features like a clever back pocket for a card (as in a Metrocard, or in my case, Charlie Card) — I wish I'd known a bag with a feature like this existed sooner, because it's been so convenient for quickly and easily whipping out when I enter a subway station. It also zips up for added security and has several thoughtfully placed interior pockets for cards.  Finally, the leather makes this look super stylish — and as someone who tends to go for function over style, I'm happy to have found the rare bag that truly does both. It'll definitely be coming on all my trips this summer.” - Kayla Becker, Senior Commerce Editor 

Nouvelle Crossbody

“I have a few different crossbody bags that I swap between, but ever since I got the Nouvelle Crossbody, it’s been the only bag I’ve wanted to wear. It’s the perfect size — not too big, not too small — and can hold all of my personal belongings on a day-to-day basis (lip gloss, wallet, keys, phone, etc.) with room to spare. Not to mention it has super convenient inner pockets that I can store extra cash, cards, and other belongings that I want quick access to. 

I also love how the bag itself feels almost a bit cushioned, so I use it as a protective pouch whenever I’m traveling or wandering around with my camera. And as a surprising treat, the straps are also padded, which makes it extra comfortable for carrying around all day long. As for the material, I’m personally a fan of its nylon construction that allows for easy cleaning if I get a smudge on it. All in all, it’s an excellent bag.” -Ali Domrongchai, Commerce Writer  

Aoyama Purse

Lo & Sons 

"I've been on the crescent-shape bag train for a while now since the style allows me the room to carry more than my hip belts, and I was excited to add an ivory version to my travel rotation for spring and summer. In comparison to my current go-to, this Lo & Sons purse is one of the most spacious and versatile bags I've tried.

For starters, it's actually multiple bags in one, which gives you more bang for your buck when you're paying a higher price tag for luxury style. The adjustable strap turns this purse into a crossbody, shoulder bag, and even a cute clutch — just unclip the strap and snap the two outer clips together. This feature helps it effortlessly transition from day to night during a trip.

With a length of 15 inches and height of 11.4 inches, this thing is roomy; I've nicknamed it my Mary Poppins bag. On a weekend outing, I can pack all of my necessities — phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses case, tissues, chapstick, a baseball cap, and a lightweight sweater — inside without it feeling overly bulky or heavy. Thanks to interior pockets and a key leash, staying organized on the go is super easy.

The bag is incredibly comfortable to carry, even when full, and it's very lightweight coming in at less than a pound. It's the perfect travel purse, as it can also fold down flat into my carry-on luggage, if I'm bringing my laptop backpack as my personal item on a flight.

And, it's stunning. Made of the most buttery-soft leather (with an easy-to-clean poly interior), the slouchy design is super cool, it comes with a wide sporty fabric strap, and has a large exterior side zip pocket that gives me quick and convenient access to my essentials. It is quickly becoming a staple in my wardrobe and I can't wait to travel with it this summer." - Susan Brickell, T+L Commerce News Director 

Merrell Readman

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This Travel Bag With Over 25K 5-Star Reviews Will Help You ‘Maximize Your Carry-on Game’ & It’s Only $21 Today

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

In the world of travel, everyone is on the lookout for that one bag that effortlessly bridges the gap between durability and style, making every adventure — from a spontaneous weekend getaway to those hectic days when your diaper bag needs an emergency substitute — a breeze. The HYC00 Store Travel Duffel Bag emerges as a standout in the realm of travel gear, capturing hearts and accumulating an impressive roster of fans, as seen by its staggering 25,000 5-star reviews.

More from SheKnows

This $400 'Sturdy & Durable' Luggage Set Is Marked Down to $95 at Walmart Right Now

What sets this bag apart? For starters, its innovative design boasts a special pocket that keeps wet and dry items separate. Picture wrapping up a day at the beach or a session at the gym without worrying about your damp clothes ruining everything else. “This bag is AMAZING! See my pic as it clearly fits in the US ‘personal item’ box…perfect pool bag as well,” shares an excited reviewer, pointing out just how game-changing this feature is for anyone looking to streamline their travel.

The magic doesn’t end there. The spaciousness and organizational prowess of this overnight bag are impressive. With 6 internal and 2 external pockets, packing is no longer a puzzle but a pleasure. It’s designed to fit neatly as a carry-on while providing ample space for your essentials. “I love all the space and pockets it has. My husband really liked it too…Totally recommend!” exclaims another user, highlighting the ease and convenience it brings into their travel routine.

HYC00 Store Travel Duffel Bag

Buy Now $21

Its compatibility with airline regulations as a carry-on adds another feather to its cap, making the airport hustle smoother and more efficient. Its versatility shines through as it seamlessly transitions from a stylish travel accessory to an essential gear holder for various sports and outdoor activities, proving its mettle across different user needs.

The stellar quality of materials used means this isn’t just any travel bag . It’s durable, water-resistant, and ready to face whatever adventure comes your way. “Got this as a beach / swimming bag…the perfect size!!” a satisfied customer notes, further cementing its status as a reliable companion for all sorts of excitements and explorations.

For an unbeatable price of just $21, the HYC00 Store Travel Duffel Bag distinguishes itself in the travel gear market. Having garnered the admiration of countless travelers, as demonstrated by its impressive tally of 25,000 5-star reviews, this duffel bag delivers much more than mere storage. It brings comfort, style, and unmatched reliability to every journey, making it an essential companion for all sorts of travels.

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Mother’s day gift guide 2024: best toiletry and cosmetic cases.

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healthy, hygiene, cleanness, product, home decoration, household, objects

The terms “toiletry bag” and “cosmetic case” are often used interchangeably although toiletry bags are usually larger and hold more than cosmetics.

Choosing the best vessel for your needs depends on the length of your trip, what you plan to take with you, and how you want to organize your travel essentials.

Here are some options in different sizes, shapes and configurations for moms who travel:

Stephanie Johnson Tropea Ivory Martha Cosmetics Case

Stephanie Johnson Martha Briefcase-Style Case

Those who are super organized will enjoy this large Stephanie Johnson briefcase-style cosmetics case. It has two convenient handles at the top and a zipper that wraps around the case so it can fully open.

The deluxe case features four removable compartments, a roomy interior, and a clear zip wall pocket. Although it’s made of recycled materials and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, it has the smart look of ivory linen.

Your Best Look Yet At The New iPhone 16

Imessage s lock on america is this really the beginning of the end, arrowhead tells helldivers 2 players to change reviews to negative over psn linking, calpak clear train case with top compartment.

Calpak Clear Train Case

Calpak has reinvented the classic train case for makeup and toiletries with transparent PVC panels that allow you to see what’s inside immediately.

This standing case offers enough depth so many products can stand upright. It also has elastic straps and an interior compartment. It comes in five different trim colors, which can be paired with matching cosmetic cases for overflow items.

Bagsmart Toiletry Travel Bag With Hanging Hook

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Travel Bag

Sink countertops at hotels can be unpredictable. Some leave little room for a toiletry bag, and others accumulate water from the faucet. This large-capacity, budget-friendly bag from Bagsmart has a convenient hanging hook, and its carry handles can double as a hanging strap.

The interior has transparent main pockets with elastic straps to hold bottles upright and a separate TSA-approved toiletry bag for liquids that must pass through airport security. It is available in seven colors.

July Vanity Cosmetic Case

Travel accessory brand July Luggage has designed a water-resistant nylon Vanity Cosmetic case. It is fully padded and has a leather top handle and trims. The case also has a removable web pouch for carrying cabin essentials on the plane.

Internal zipped pockets are convenient for storing small items like tweezers, brow brushes, and lip balms. And the case’s height allows for storing bottles upright so they don’t leak. A clear zip pocket at the top is perfect for last-minute additions. Shown in a rich plum, the vanity case comes in four different colors.

HAMMITT Clear Makeup Bag

HAMMITT Clear Makeup Case

HAMMITT is a California-based luxury handbag brand. Minimalists will love this eye-catching clear makeup bag, which is easy to carry, clean, and pack. A smoother-gliding zipper wraps around fingerprint-resistant TPU with soft pebbled leather accents.

The case is ideal for any makeup that might leak in transit. It comes in jewel-toned red with a hint of shine and has attractive brushed gold hammered hardware.

Lilibridge Makeup Bag

Imagine a makeup bag with original art on coated natural cotton canvas, available in various striking prints and colors: pineapples, botanicals, lobsters, flamingos, and more.

Hand-screened, each bag has a color-coordinated waterproof lining. Because makeup can be messy, these bags can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle (and air-dried). They're lovely for yourself or as a gift for a fellow traveler.

Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0

This travel toiletry bag's slim design makes it easy to pack in almost any suitcase, carry-on bag, or backpack. Its see-through pockets keep products organized without compromising viewability.

It comes in two different sizes, small and regular. Both are durable, water-resistant and have adjustable hanging straps. The dedicated toothbrush pocket protects your brush from coming in contact with other toiletries.

Kusshi Signature Makeup Bag

Kusshi Signature Makeup Bag in Navy

This attractive Kusshi bag comes in a washable fabric or leather with complementary interior colors. Although the makeup bag only weighs five ounces, it can hold up to 15-20 products.

The bag opens on three sides for easy access and has roomy compartments. There are plenty of pockets to organize your makeup. The leather bags come with a zip-out lining that is machine washable.

Alicia Bell 3-Piece Cosmetic Bag Set

Alicia Bell Travel Bag Set

Alicia Bell, a Parsons School of Design graduate, designed this three-piece set of colorful, block-printed cosmetic bags. The soft cotton bags come in three sizes, each with waterproof linings and two pockets.

The bags’ colorful fabrics were inspired by the designer’s own travels. The set allows you to scatter them in separate places in your suitcase.

StreamLine Luggage Cosmetic Cases

StreamLine Cosmetic Bags

These fanciful StreamLine cosmetic cases also come in matched sets of three. They are made from 100% recycled plastic water bottles and are available in 14 different patterns.

The slimmest case is ideal for makeup brushes, pencils, and pens; the medium is for compacts, and the largest is for skincare products. Because the bags are separate, they are especially easy to pack.

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